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Memory's Wake Trilogy #1
Memory's Wake
Lost in a world full of monstrous fairies, a troubled sixteen year old has to find out who she is and why her memories were stolen before she is found by those who want her dead.
She takes the name "Memory" and knows she has just one goal - to find her way home, wherever that is. But this land is strange. No technology to be seen, and iron is banned, thanks to a pact the humans have with the magical creatures who share their pre-industrial era world. In her t-shirt and torn jeans, Memory knows she's different, even before she performs impossible magic.
Haunted by her past, chased by a dragon, wanted by the king and stalked by the strange, handsome savage that seems to know her, everyone is after Memory, and she suspects it's not just for her eye-catching outfit. Her forgotten past holds dangerous secrets that will challenge everything she believes and risk the lives of everyone she loves.
Memory's Wake contains over 45 illustrations by the author and artist.
She takes the name "Memory" and knows she has just one goal - to find her way home, wherever that is. But this land is strange. No technology to be seen, and iron is banned, thanks to a pact the humans have with the magical creatures who share their pre-industrial era world. In her t-shirt and torn jeans, Memory knows she's different, even before she performs impossible magic.
Haunted by her past, chased by a dragon, wanted by the king and stalked by the strange, handsome savage that seems to know her, everyone is after Memory, and she suspects it's not just for her eye-catching outfit. Her forgotten past holds dangerous secrets that will challenge everything she believes and risk the lives of everyone she loves.
Memory's Wake contains over 45 illustrations by the author and artist.
320 pages, Paperback
First published June 5, 2011
597 people are currently reading
3289 people want to read
About the author
Selina Fenech
105 books567 followersWhether it's paintings, novels, or colouring books, creating fantasy works is my biggest passion. It's also been my full time job for over ten years! I live in Australia with my husband and daughter and love food, gardening, geekery, and all things fantasy.
To learn more about my novels and colouring books, head to my official website www.selinafenech.com or my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/selinafenechart
To learn more about my novels and colouring books, head to my official website www.selinafenech.com or my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/selinafenechart
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 225 reviews
June 23, 2023
An emo girl from the real world wakes up in a fairy tale forest without any memories. She quickly finds herself teaming up with a beautiful girl on the run who’s actually a princess, the lost heir to the throne. They also encounter a smooth talking thief and they’re basically being stalked by Tarzan, who seems to know more about the emo girl than she knows about herself.
This story has beautiful illustrations, interesting characters, cool fairytale world building and a plot that has some good ideas but is a bit messy in execution.
This story has beautiful illustrations, interesting characters, cool fairytale world building and a plot that has some good ideas but is a bit messy in execution.
July 17, 2023
An emo, a princess, Tarzan, and a thief walk into a bar.
The rest of the joke is the book itself.
Yeah, no.
I was so excited about reading this one. I don’t know why. It may have been the awesome cover, the author is a very good graphic artist and it shows. Goodreads had an extended preview for it once. It probably still does. Going through it, I could see some amazing artwork put in the book and that made me even more excited. Also, the beginning of each chapter has a cute illustration; this reminds me of Harry Potter a lot. All these things made me want Memory’s Wake so badly.
And then it was free on Amazon. I guess it was a one or two-day thing because I don’t think it’s free anymore. Doesn’t hurt checking. I am happy I ended up waiting for it to get a discount (100% ftw) because I know I would have regretted buying it. Like this I did not pay a dime so I’m not that sad. At least I’m not sad about the wasted money. What I am sad is about – no more disappointed than sad – is that the book ended up being bad.
There are many things that bothered me about the story and characters. Most of the characters are not likable. Ok, not most. All of them are. I did not like ANY character in this book. Really. There were also lots of terms mentioned throughout the book without giving more explanations.
“We are part of the resistance blah blah blah” or “The pact prohibits them from hurting us.”
Yes, but what is this resistance you speak of? What pact? What is this kingdom you are in? How do these wormholes or whatever the hell they appear there? I feel like the author didn’t explain much about the universe and this failed to give depth to the story. The writing is ok but it’s obvious that Selina Fenech does not have much experience with writing. As I said before, many explanations were missing. The line of events often lost its flow. I would feel like I skipped one chapter because the events did not make much sense. The characters don’t really distinguish from each other. They are not likable or believable. Eh.
The first half of the book was horrible. I got bored, I got angry, I wanted to drop the book. The only thing that made me want to go on was this:
Yeah, Tarzan boy is hot. I am ashamed of it, but yeah. There’s my reason. And in the end, I don’t think it was even worth it because I ended up not liking the dude. He just looks hot. That’s all.
The second half was better but it still didn’t save the rating from a low rating. I’m not going to give it one star, but I feel like I can’t give it more than two either.
So there you have it. If you ever find Memory’s Wake for free and have no other book at arm’s reach, then give it a try. Otherwise, I can’t really tell you to read it because, you know, meh.
The rest of the joke is the book itself.
Yeah, no.
I was so excited about reading this one. I don’t know why. It may have been the awesome cover, the author is a very good graphic artist and it shows. Goodreads had an extended preview for it once. It probably still does. Going through it, I could see some amazing artwork put in the book and that made me even more excited. Also, the beginning of each chapter has a cute illustration; this reminds me of Harry Potter a lot. All these things made me want Memory’s Wake so badly.
And then it was free on Amazon. I guess it was a one or two-day thing because I don’t think it’s free anymore. Doesn’t hurt checking. I am happy I ended up waiting for it to get a discount (100% ftw) because I know I would have regretted buying it. Like this I did not pay a dime so I’m not that sad. At least I’m not sad about the wasted money. What I am sad is about – no more disappointed than sad – is that the book ended up being bad.
There are many things that bothered me about the story and characters. Most of the characters are not likable. Ok, not most. All of them are. I did not like ANY character in this book. Really. There were also lots of terms mentioned throughout the book without giving more explanations.
“We are part of the resistance blah blah blah” or “The pact prohibits them from hurting us.”
Yes, but what is this resistance you speak of? What pact? What is this kingdom you are in? How do these wormholes or whatever the hell they appear there? I feel like the author didn’t explain much about the universe and this failed to give depth to the story. The writing is ok but it’s obvious that Selina Fenech does not have much experience with writing. As I said before, many explanations were missing. The line of events often lost its flow. I would feel like I skipped one chapter because the events did not make much sense. The characters don’t really distinguish from each other. They are not likable or believable. Eh.
The first half of the book was horrible. I got bored, I got angry, I wanted to drop the book. The only thing that made me want to go on was this:
Yeah, Tarzan boy is hot. I am ashamed of it, but yeah. There’s my reason. And in the end, I don’t think it was even worth it because I ended up not liking the dude. He just looks hot. That’s all.
The second half was better but it still didn’t save the rating from a low rating. I’m not going to give it one star, but I feel like I can’t give it more than two either.
So there you have it. If you ever find Memory’s Wake for free and have no other book at arm’s reach, then give it a try. Otherwise, I can’t really tell you to read it because, you know, meh.
Read
September 10, 2011Paperback, ebook and hardcover versions of Memory's Wake are illustrated with 44 black and white artworks throughout the pages. There are nine full page artworks and the remaining are smaller spot illustrations. All of the artworks are by myself (author and artist), and I created the illustrations to actually show the scenes they are depicting as closely as I could. So beware! I know it will be tempting to flick through the book and look at the pictures when you first get it... but avoid doing it if you can. They do hold some spoilers!
May 4, 2013
Actual rating: 3.5
Whimsical, fairy tale like, and filled with fantastical creatures, Memory’s Wake transports the reader to a different place. One where dragons exist, magic prevails and a thief and a princess fall in love. In the midst of it all is Memory, a strange girl with pink and black hair who has no recollection of how she got there. She meets Eloryn, a beautiful fair maiden who seems to be on a run and gets thrust into an adventure filled with magic, royalty, and a host of characters who will help or hinder her in a mission to get her memories back.
Memory’s Wake is a magical and mystical world that comes to life in your head. It’s written in a heart-pumping, action-filled way that will constantly have you wondering what will happen at every turn. The author has incorporated a range of twists and turns that are slowly revealed throughout the novel. Most of the twists I didn’t see coming, which was a delight to experience as the story unfolded. I loved experiencing the world that the author has so vividly painted; the kingdom ruled by Thayl, the evil ruler, forests with wisps and fae, a carriage with some evil villagers, and the magic and fighting that is mystical and violent.
Being an illustrated eBook, you’ll notice some beautiful illustrations as well adorning each chapter, that really helps bring the world to life. They were a treat as you reached the end of a passage which really helped you to picture what was happening in the book.
While the world and the narrative was a strength, the downfall was the inconsistency of the characters, and the way which some pertinent plot points unfolded. I actually had to go back and read some specific passages in the story to try and make sense of what happened (in particular where the big reveal happens about Memory’s past) and still couldn’t make perfect sense of what exactly happened, and people’s motives within them. It’s like I couldn’t really tell whether the villain was evil or not based on his actions (although it is assumed that he is), and why he did what he wanted to. The ending was also slightly glossed over and I was left confused, as Memory did not seem to have a satisfactory resolution.
Memory’s an interesting character who is fiesty, smart, and ultimately broken, and her contrast is Eloryn in the story. Memory seems to have taken a beating in this novel, she’s not afraid to get down and dirty, hides knifes in her dresses and for a period of the story, sports a black eye. Eloryn on the other hand, is dainty, demure, beautiful, and the princess. That also makes her judgemental, spoilt, and coddled the whole way through. That type of character really annoys me (like Lissa vs Rose in Vampire Academy), especially how everything seemed to work in her favour.
Overall, I found it to be an exciting read, but would appreciate further detail when it comes to pertinent scenes in the novel. I appreciate how it isn’t a stereotypical YA read featuring annoying instant love or love triangles (in fact there is romance but it is very brief) and I look forward to reading the next novel, Hope’s Reign (due out soon) to find out what happens to these two girls. Thanks to the author for offering this book on this review tour!
Check out the blog tour at Happy Indulgence for the review and author interview.
Whimsical, fairy tale like, and filled with fantastical creatures, Memory’s Wake transports the reader to a different place. One where dragons exist, magic prevails and a thief and a princess fall in love. In the midst of it all is Memory, a strange girl with pink and black hair who has no recollection of how she got there. She meets Eloryn, a beautiful fair maiden who seems to be on a run and gets thrust into an adventure filled with magic, royalty, and a host of characters who will help or hinder her in a mission to get her memories back.
Memory’s Wake is a magical and mystical world that comes to life in your head. It’s written in a heart-pumping, action-filled way that will constantly have you wondering what will happen at every turn. The author has incorporated a range of twists and turns that are slowly revealed throughout the novel. Most of the twists I didn’t see coming, which was a delight to experience as the story unfolded. I loved experiencing the world that the author has so vividly painted; the kingdom ruled by Thayl, the evil ruler, forests with wisps and fae, a carriage with some evil villagers, and the magic and fighting that is mystical and violent.
Being an illustrated eBook, you’ll notice some beautiful illustrations as well adorning each chapter, that really helps bring the world to life. They were a treat as you reached the end of a passage which really helped you to picture what was happening in the book.
While the world and the narrative was a strength, the downfall was the inconsistency of the characters, and the way which some pertinent plot points unfolded. I actually had to go back and read some specific passages in the story to try and make sense of what happened (in particular where the big reveal happens about Memory’s past) and still couldn’t make perfect sense of what exactly happened, and people’s motives within them. It’s like I couldn’t really tell whether the villain was evil or not based on his actions (although it is assumed that he is), and why he did what he wanted to. The ending was also slightly glossed over and I was left confused, as Memory did not seem to have a satisfactory resolution.
Memory’s an interesting character who is fiesty, smart, and ultimately broken, and her contrast is Eloryn in the story. Memory seems to have taken a beating in this novel, she’s not afraid to get down and dirty, hides knifes in her dresses and for a period of the story, sports a black eye. Eloryn on the other hand, is dainty, demure, beautiful, and the princess. That also makes her judgemental, spoilt, and coddled the whole way through. That type of character really annoys me (like Lissa vs Rose in Vampire Academy), especially how everything seemed to work in her favour.
Overall, I found it to be an exciting read, but would appreciate further detail when it comes to pertinent scenes in the novel. I appreciate how it isn’t a stereotypical YA read featuring annoying instant love or love triangles (in fact there is romance but it is very brief) and I look forward to reading the next novel, Hope’s Reign (due out soon) to find out what happens to these two girls. Thanks to the author for offering this book on this review tour!
Check out the blog tour at Happy Indulgence for the review and author interview.
January 15, 2012
First off I'm going to state the things that I did really love about this book:
First of all, I really enjoyed all the little drawings in the beginnings of chapters and throughout the rest of the book. Selina Fenech is such a talented artist and her work is incredibly beautiful and inspiring.
I could also see all of the hard work and passion that went into creating this book, and that the author truly believes in every single word she put down on paper. It was even funny at times, and Memory had a distinct voice that was so different from the other characters that it made me laugh.
But I also had a lot of problems with this book, and found it hard to get into for that reason. So instead of forcing myself to read on I'm going to leave it to what I read and move on. I'm glad I picked up Memory's Wake but I don't think that it's a book I'm going to be finishing for a while.
First of all, I really enjoyed all the little drawings in the beginnings of chapters and throughout the rest of the book. Selina Fenech is such a talented artist and her work is incredibly beautiful and inspiring.
I could also see all of the hard work and passion that went into creating this book, and that the author truly believes in every single word she put down on paper. It was even funny at times, and Memory had a distinct voice that was so different from the other characters that it made me laugh.
But I also had a lot of problems with this book, and found it hard to get into for that reason. So instead of forcing myself to read on I'm going to leave it to what I read and move on. I'm glad I picked up Memory's Wake but I don't think that it's a book I'm going to be finishing for a while.
September 2, 2013
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Ms. Fenech for offering up your story.
Ok first off I just have to say BEST YA FANTASY NOVEL I’VE READ IN A LONG TIME!!! I absolutely adore the fairytale style of this novel and devoured the thing once I finally had time to sit down and read it. As a filmmaker I couldn’t help but see the cinematic possibilities of this world. And that opening!!! Hooks you right from the start.
She awakened to no knowledge of her name, where she is, or where she’s from. She regained consciousness severely battered and smack dab in the middle of trouble. Left with no option but to run and trust the pale girl she opened her eyes to who gave her her new name, Memory.
Eloryn is on the run from the wizard hunters, her escape hampered by a malfunctioning Veil door and the loss of her mentor. When Eloryn fell through the door and spied the girl in strange clothing she doesn’t know what to think. Still nothing can be decided until they find a safe place to breathe and discover what there is to know about each other. Learning of the other girls inability to remember anything of her life she inadvertently names her Memory. Together she and Mem are on the run for their lives trying to find Eloryn’s mentor and Mem’s past.
*giddy bounce* Fairies, dragons, wizards, oh my! This story of two girls struggling to find their place in a world neither is truly comfortable in. For Memory of course everything is new and unfamiliar, but Eloryn has lived an extremely sheltered life and being out on her own is a frightening experience for her as well. So much is thrown at these two in such a short span of time and while they’re learning to trust each other they also have to learn to trust themselves. In order to rid the land of the evil wizard who overthrew the rightful king and queen of Avall they both have things to discover about who they are and who they can be.
Both of our mysterious boyos were such perfect companions in their own right: Roen, the seventh son of a seventh son and a disposed noble who’s never experienced what having that title would be like, and Will the handsome savage torn from his own world in an effort to protect the one person he cares deeply for. I find myself totally drawn to Will and can’t wait to see him come out of his shell more and escape the bonds the sprites have him wrapped in. Roen is noble despite what he thinks of himself. He can truly be the man he would have been born to be in another life. What the world has pushed down certainly won’t stay there.
I adored the way this adventure moved along. It’s lighthearted and sweet with the potential for so much in the second book. I want to know more. I hurt for poor Mem when she really discovers her past. There’s so much pain there and I hate to think of her having to deal with it. Ultimately though, one knows she must. Mem is such a strong girl using her outward brashness to cover the vulnerable girl underneath. The strength she displays may in some ways be more fragile than Eloryn’s more apparent softness. Eloryn knows who she is and is learning to fight for herself because of it. Mem is still so lost and lashes out in order to maintain some sort of balance.
The world building here was done nicely and I enjoyed the idea of a land separated from ours by choice. I’m really curious to find out more about the pact between the fae and the Maellan family and why Mem’s powers are different from Eloryn’s. This is a fairytale land and as such your evil is evil and your good is good. Exactly as it should be. But evil is a slippery devious little demon and you really can see it trying to drag Mem into it’s net. Mem’s struggles and the things she finds herself capable of doing lend to the idea of her being the “darker” of the two girls, but yet there is still such a purity to her heart you know she’s going to come out on the other side.
I couldn’t help but “see” this world as I was reading. The writing made this world very vivid for me and as I mentioned before cinematic. I felt like I was watching the movie as I read. The action keeps the story moving along and I was cheering for the girls all the way. I really felt for Memory and hated seeing the times where felt she was left out of decisions or not trusted. Eloryn struggles so much with what people expect of her and the simpleness of what she wants for her life.
In the end all I can say is if you like fairytales and magic, READ THIS BOOK! I know I’m going to be diving into the sequel as quickly as possible and eagerly awaiting Book 3 as well. Also, one last note, the artwork throughout the book is lovely and such a fabulous compliment to the rest of the tale.
Ok first off I just have to say BEST YA FANTASY NOVEL I’VE READ IN A LONG TIME!!! I absolutely adore the fairytale style of this novel and devoured the thing once I finally had time to sit down and read it. As a filmmaker I couldn’t help but see the cinematic possibilities of this world. And that opening!!! Hooks you right from the start.
She awakened to no knowledge of her name, where she is, or where she’s from. She regained consciousness severely battered and smack dab in the middle of trouble. Left with no option but to run and trust the pale girl she opened her eyes to who gave her her new name, Memory.
Eloryn is on the run from the wizard hunters, her escape hampered by a malfunctioning Veil door and the loss of her mentor. When Eloryn fell through the door and spied the girl in strange clothing she doesn’t know what to think. Still nothing can be decided until they find a safe place to breathe and discover what there is to know about each other. Learning of the other girls inability to remember anything of her life she inadvertently names her Memory. Together she and Mem are on the run for their lives trying to find Eloryn’s mentor and Mem’s past.
*giddy bounce* Fairies, dragons, wizards, oh my! This story of two girls struggling to find their place in a world neither is truly comfortable in. For Memory of course everything is new and unfamiliar, but Eloryn has lived an extremely sheltered life and being out on her own is a frightening experience for her as well. So much is thrown at these two in such a short span of time and while they’re learning to trust each other they also have to learn to trust themselves. In order to rid the land of the evil wizard who overthrew the rightful king and queen of Avall they both have things to discover about who they are and who they can be.
Both of our mysterious boyos were such perfect companions in their own right: Roen, the seventh son of a seventh son and a disposed noble who’s never experienced what having that title would be like, and Will the handsome savage torn from his own world in an effort to protect the one person he cares deeply for. I find myself totally drawn to Will and can’t wait to see him come out of his shell more and escape the bonds the sprites have him wrapped in. Roen is noble despite what he thinks of himself. He can truly be the man he would have been born to be in another life. What the world has pushed down certainly won’t stay there.
I adored the way this adventure moved along. It’s lighthearted and sweet with the potential for so much in the second book. I want to know more. I hurt for poor Mem when she really discovers her past. There’s so much pain there and I hate to think of her having to deal with it. Ultimately though, one knows she must. Mem is such a strong girl using her outward brashness to cover the vulnerable girl underneath. The strength she displays may in some ways be more fragile than Eloryn’s more apparent softness. Eloryn knows who she is and is learning to fight for herself because of it. Mem is still so lost and lashes out in order to maintain some sort of balance.
The world building here was done nicely and I enjoyed the idea of a land separated from ours by choice. I’m really curious to find out more about the pact between the fae and the Maellan family and why Mem’s powers are different from Eloryn’s. This is a fairytale land and as such your evil is evil and your good is good. Exactly as it should be. But evil is a slippery devious little demon and you really can see it trying to drag Mem into it’s net. Mem’s struggles and the things she finds herself capable of doing lend to the idea of her being the “darker” of the two girls, but yet there is still such a purity to her heart you know she’s going to come out on the other side.
I couldn’t help but “see” this world as I was reading. The writing made this world very vivid for me and as I mentioned before cinematic. I felt like I was watching the movie as I read. The action keeps the story moving along and I was cheering for the girls all the way. I really felt for Memory and hated seeing the times where felt she was left out of decisions or not trusted. Eloryn struggles so much with what people expect of her and the simpleness of what she wants for her life.
In the end all I can say is if you like fairytales and magic, READ THIS BOOK! I know I’m going to be diving into the sequel as quickly as possible and eagerly awaiting Book 3 as well. Also, one last note, the artwork throughout the book is lovely and such a fabulous compliment to the rest of the tale.
May 30, 2016
An excellent fantasy adventure. I really liked it. Memory was self absorbed, but what teen ager isn't? The resolution was good, but left space open for character development in the rest of the trilogy.
June 3, 2015
An imaginative and engaging read.
What would you do if you awoke in a strange place with absolutely no memories of who you are!! Well that's what Memory has to deal with. She awakens to find herself face to face with a girl she doesn't know, a world she never knew existed, no memories of who she is, a savage that seems to know her and an affinity to magic that she never in her wildest dreams would of imagined. She is thrown into a fight for her life with no idea of why she is on the run. What follows is an action packed and engrossing read!
Character wise: Memory is a hard character to grasp at the start because you don't get a sense of who she is. You find yourself on the journey to finding out who she is alongside Memory, which I liked.
Then we have Eloryn. The girl who finds Memory and is on the run from wizards. She has lead a sheltered life and is now on her true path to become who she was meant to. I liked Eloryn, she is a sweet and innocent girl but is brave when needed and helps Memory.
We also have 2 different boys, one is the savage who seems to know Memory and Roen, who is a noble but living in secret. Both of the boys were well written and developed and I loved finding out more about them.
Plot Wise: It's quite slow to start but once it gets going, it really flows. We have magic, mystery, wizards, dragons and plenty of danger to keep everyone satisfied.
The world building was amazing. I loved the world Mem wakes up in and the author describes it perfectly. I loved the different magical beings also.
Anyway, overall I really enjoyed this and loved the audio. Em Eldridge did a great job with the girls and distinguishing between them. She gave each character her all and it showed.
*I received the audio for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
What would you do if you awoke in a strange place with absolutely no memories of who you are!! Well that's what Memory has to deal with. She awakens to find herself face to face with a girl she doesn't know, a world she never knew existed, no memories of who she is, a savage that seems to know her and an affinity to magic that she never in her wildest dreams would of imagined. She is thrown into a fight for her life with no idea of why she is on the run. What follows is an action packed and engrossing read!
Character wise: Memory is a hard character to grasp at the start because you don't get a sense of who she is. You find yourself on the journey to finding out who she is alongside Memory, which I liked.
Then we have Eloryn. The girl who finds Memory and is on the run from wizards. She has lead a sheltered life and is now on her true path to become who she was meant to. I liked Eloryn, she is a sweet and innocent girl but is brave when needed and helps Memory.
We also have 2 different boys, one is the savage who seems to know Memory and Roen, who is a noble but living in secret. Both of the boys were well written and developed and I loved finding out more about them.
Plot Wise: It's quite slow to start but once it gets going, it really flows. We have magic, mystery, wizards, dragons and plenty of danger to keep everyone satisfied.
The world building was amazing. I loved the world Mem wakes up in and the author describes it perfectly. I loved the different magical beings also.
Anyway, overall I really enjoyed this and loved the audio. Em Eldridge did a great job with the girls and distinguishing between them. She gave each character her all and it showed.
*I received the audio for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
March 17, 2016
Memory's Wake, written by Selina Fenech, is the first book in the Memory's Wake Trilogy. It starts out fast, diving straight into the story, with Memory waking with amnesia. She immediately meets another girl just before they run away from a group of dangerous men with a dragon.
Although the story is told from four different views, two females and two males, it's not hard to follow. Each character has a different personality and reason for doing what they do. We get into each of their heads and easily understand them.
This was a fun story full of adventure and great characters. Not much for intrigue and suspense, so it didn't tempt me into going on an all night book binge. Loved the illustrations.
As for my clean rating for a young adult, there's a hint of a future romance that may go deeper in the next book. The kissing scene was PG rated, and the action wasn't gory. The two girls also got drunk at one point.
The only problem I really had with this book--and it's a big one due to my personal belief--was the one curse word this author chose to use more than once. It's the most offensive one, which include's God's name. Coming from someone who spent her teen years in Florida--extremely wild and rebellious--that word was offensive back then by many teens using drugs and drinking. Today, my high school daughter tells me it's still the same. If someone uses that word at school, usually another teen will tell them it's just not cool. Maybe this is because I'm from the South (Bible Belt), but I just don't believe it belongs in young adult books (or any book I want to read).
Since I go by the Goodreads rating system, I'm giving this book two stars. It was okay. It didn't end on a cliffhanger but left me somewhat curious enough to read the next book in the series. However, I don't think I will.
Although the story is told from four different views, two females and two males, it's not hard to follow. Each character has a different personality and reason for doing what they do. We get into each of their heads and easily understand them.
This was a fun story full of adventure and great characters. Not much for intrigue and suspense, so it didn't tempt me into going on an all night book binge. Loved the illustrations.
As for my clean rating for a young adult, there's a hint of a future romance that may go deeper in the next book. The kissing scene was PG rated, and the action wasn't gory. The two girls also got drunk at one point.
The only problem I really had with this book--and it's a big one due to my personal belief--was the one curse word this author chose to use more than once. It's the most offensive one, which include's God's name. Coming from someone who spent her teen years in Florida--extremely wild and rebellious--that word was offensive back then by many teens using drugs and drinking. Today, my high school daughter tells me it's still the same. If someone uses that word at school, usually another teen will tell them it's just not cool. Maybe this is because I'm from the South (Bible Belt), but I just don't believe it belongs in young adult books (or any book I want to read).
Since I go by the Goodreads rating system, I'm giving this book two stars. It was okay. It didn't end on a cliffhanger but left me somewhat curious enough to read the next book in the series. However, I don't think I will.
Read
February 3, 2020Paperback, ebook and hardcover versions of Memory's Wake are illustrated with 44 black and white artworks throughout the pages. There are nine full page artworks and the remaining are smaller spot illustrations. All of the artworks are by myself (author and artist), and I created the illustrations to actually show the scenes they are depicting as closely as I could. So beware! I know it will be tempting to flick through the book and look at the pictures when you first get it... but avoid doing it if you can. They do hold some spoilers!
December 15, 2013
Having been a long time follower and fan of Selina Fenech's gorgeous fantasy art, I was beyond thrilled when I discovered she had not only written but also illustrated her first full length novel. This book has been on my list to read ever since it came out and it was the very first book I purchased when I got my brand new Kindle!
I was drawn into the book immediately from the first chapter. Selina's writing was very easy and enjoyable to read and I fell in love with the characters right away. I was intrigued with each of their own individual storylines and even more intrigued as to what tied them all together.
I loved that I was able to visualize the characters because of Selina's gorgeous illustrations throughout the books. She created a stunning cast of characters both in writing and in art. They are a handsome bunch for sure! The smaller illustrations at the top of each chapter were also very beautiful.
I also enjoyed all the different fantasy beings in the book. It ran the gamut on the different beings that were included from fairies to pixies to dragons to wizards. I loved Selina's description of the different fairies in the world. They were all varied and unique.
All in all, it was a great read and I am so looking forward to the 2nd edition in the trilogy!
I was drawn into the book immediately from the first chapter. Selina's writing was very easy and enjoyable to read and I fell in love with the characters right away. I was intrigued with each of their own individual storylines and even more intrigued as to what tied them all together.
I loved that I was able to visualize the characters because of Selina's gorgeous illustrations throughout the books. She created a stunning cast of characters both in writing and in art. They are a handsome bunch for sure! The smaller illustrations at the top of each chapter were also very beautiful.
I also enjoyed all the different fantasy beings in the book. It ran the gamut on the different beings that were included from fairies to pixies to dragons to wizards. I loved Selina's description of the different fairies in the world. They were all varied and unique.
All in all, it was a great read and I am so looking forward to the 2nd edition in the trilogy!
September 9, 2013
I received a copy of The book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is definitely a case of "be patient". While the book is slow to start, it picks up naturally and grows on you. Stick with it and you will be happily surprised.
Theme: it is a multi-genre book, heavy in fantasy and mystery, so there is something for everyone. While there is romance, it seems slightly forced at times, but still sweet and not too in-your-face and gag-inducing.
World Building: while confusing in the beginning, it builds and grows as the story grows and actually matches well with Mem's perspective. There was much more focus on the characters than the world.
Characters: character building was definitely a strong point of this book, even including amazing illustrations. In the beginning, nothing is known of any characters, but the information grows and is introduced naturally.
In all, it was a delightful book that drew me in and I look forward to reading more!
This is definitely a case of "be patient". While the book is slow to start, it picks up naturally and grows on you. Stick with it and you will be happily surprised.
Theme: it is a multi-genre book, heavy in fantasy and mystery, so there is something for everyone. While there is romance, it seems slightly forced at times, but still sweet and not too in-your-face and gag-inducing.
World Building: while confusing in the beginning, it builds and grows as the story grows and actually matches well with Mem's perspective. There was much more focus on the characters than the world.
Characters: character building was definitely a strong point of this book, even including amazing illustrations. In the beginning, nothing is known of any characters, but the information grows and is introduced naturally.
In all, it was a delightful book that drew me in and I look forward to reading more!
November 14, 2013
The story of Memory’s Wake begins with a tumble into the rabbit hole. Memory is in a state of confusion, not knowing how she arrived face down in the dirt, pain ravaging her body and mind, next to a young girl she’s never seen before. The reader is instantly thrown into the action as the two begin running through the woods to escape not only hunters, but a dragon. Yes, a dragon.. right from the start. Even more impossible things begin happening and no matter how hard Memory tries.. she can’t wake up from this nightmare. She and her new found friend, Eloryn, get out ahead of their pursuers and slip into a cave, but not before Memory has a brief run-in with someone else who is after her.
This story is a time machine which transported me back to a time when I loved to read illustrated fairytales with my grandma when I would spend the night at her house. I have such fond memories of those times, so much that I can envision the actual pages of the stories we read. I’ve never read a book that conjured these images from my past and for that I am grateful for the journey.
Memory’s Wake is full of vivid imagery and wild, magical creatures that one can only find in the grandest of fantasy novels. The storyline is remarkably unique and unpredictable. I’m not able to say that often, but this tale is a work of art in itself. The writing style is fanciful and made me feel as if I was literally being whisked away on a magical wave straight into the heart of the story. I read the entire book in one night because I didn’t want the adventure, which is packed full of exciting twists and turns, to come to an end. Yeah, I paid for it the next day. It happens. I lived.. on countless gallons of coffee.
The only thing that would have made my reading experience more enjoyable is if it were written in the first person from Memory’s POV, but that is just my own personal preference. This is a brilliant tale of fantasy filled with magic, fast-paced action, romance and mystery, not to mention the incredibly awesome artwork that accompanies the story. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series and I highly recommend that all fans of fantasy grab a copy of Memory’s Wake.
This story is a time machine which transported me back to a time when I loved to read illustrated fairytales with my grandma when I would spend the night at her house. I have such fond memories of those times, so much that I can envision the actual pages of the stories we read. I’ve never read a book that conjured these images from my past and for that I am grateful for the journey.
Memory’s Wake is full of vivid imagery and wild, magical creatures that one can only find in the grandest of fantasy novels. The storyline is remarkably unique and unpredictable. I’m not able to say that often, but this tale is a work of art in itself. The writing style is fanciful and made me feel as if I was literally being whisked away on a magical wave straight into the heart of the story. I read the entire book in one night because I didn’t want the adventure, which is packed full of exciting twists and turns, to come to an end. Yeah, I paid for it the next day. It happens. I lived.. on countless gallons of coffee.
The only thing that would have made my reading experience more enjoyable is if it were written in the first person from Memory’s POV, but that is just my own personal preference. This is a brilliant tale of fantasy filled with magic, fast-paced action, romance and mystery, not to mention the incredibly awesome artwork that accompanies the story. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series and I highly recommend that all fans of fantasy grab a copy of Memory’s Wake.
July 14, 2012
From the very beginning of Memory’s Wake, the reader is dropped into the action as Memory appears in the land of Avall with no memories of who she is or where she came from. She remembers things about another world, but it’s clear from the soldiers chasing her and the monsters she encounters that this is not the world she thinks it is. Befriended and helped by Eloryn and later by Roen and the mysterious Will, Memory travels across the land in search of a safe haven, as well as the secrets of her identity.
I loved reading Memory’s Wake. The action was almost non-stop, and in the quieter sections, romance or an amazing discovery pushed the story onwards – I didn’t want to stop reading. I’m not just saying this because Selina’s lovely artworks are making my banners look great this month!
The first thing you’ll notice when starting to read this book is that it’s illustrated – Selina has included 44 black and white illustrations throughout this book, some full-page, others small drawings at the start of each chapter. They translated very well to the kindle version and helped me to visualise an already very visual story.
Memory herself is a fantastic character – with just the right amount of absolute confusion with her amnesia and disorientation in a new world, she still comes out with the occasional witty remark that often the other characters don’t understand. Her magic is quite terrifying – I am looking forward to reading more about that in future stories.
The ending left me with a lot of questions – Who ends up with Roen? What’s Will’s story? What happened to Memory in our world? How did Thayl find her there? and plenty more. I was pleased to discover that there are two more books planned in this series so hopefully some of my burning questions will be answered!
If you love fast-moving fantasy with a touch of swoony romance, nasty fae and plenty of magic, you’ll love Memory’s Wake.
I loved reading Memory’s Wake. The action was almost non-stop, and in the quieter sections, romance or an amazing discovery pushed the story onwards – I didn’t want to stop reading. I’m not just saying this because Selina’s lovely artworks are making my banners look great this month!
The first thing you’ll notice when starting to read this book is that it’s illustrated – Selina has included 44 black and white illustrations throughout this book, some full-page, others small drawings at the start of each chapter. They translated very well to the kindle version and helped me to visualise an already very visual story.
Memory herself is a fantastic character – with just the right amount of absolute confusion with her amnesia and disorientation in a new world, she still comes out with the occasional witty remark that often the other characters don’t understand. Her magic is quite terrifying – I am looking forward to reading more about that in future stories.
The ending left me with a lot of questions – Who ends up with Roen? What’s Will’s story? What happened to Memory in our world? How did Thayl find her there? and plenty more. I was pleased to discover that there are two more books planned in this series so hopefully some of my burning questions will be answered!
If you love fast-moving fantasy with a touch of swoony romance, nasty fae and plenty of magic, you’ll love Memory’s Wake.
April 1, 2015
Hey, this is one of those times when a free ebook offering paid off.
The cover sort of threw me off at first, because the goth girl scene doesn't really move me. But what's interesting is that the author illustrated this book, and there are some beautiful and dazzling illustrations included, but the one on the cover was my least favorite.
It was nice getting a glimpse into how the author meant them to look. And Memory really isn't that much of a goth girl, mostly just the packaging. But she gives up her facial piercings pretty quickly in a world where it could be deathly to stand out too much.
She is pulled from one world to another, and lands right into the running-for-her-life situation of the Kingdom's princess who everyone thought was dead. Oddly sometimes she gets really resentful of the fact that people tend to pay more attention to the PRINCESS than her, and that seemed a little presumptuous, I mean....weird girl...princess...weird girl...princess, who are you naturally going to help out?
I found Memory's personality at times to be a little inconsistent, sometimes she seemed sulky or cynical, but from the other characters POV, they often viewed her as easy going and having a ready smile. And I kept thinking that wasn't the impression I was getting of her.
It was nice however, that Memory didn't fantasize and objectify the guys around her that much, she definitely noticed them, but she was able to make friends and act normal and didn't fangirl all over anyone reeking testosterone.
And just to kill off any hopes you may have when you start reading - they never do tell you her real name. She get's to know it (via an old driver's license) but us the readers, at least in book one, don't get to know.
The cover sort of threw me off at first, because the goth girl scene doesn't really move me. But what's interesting is that the author illustrated this book, and there are some beautiful and dazzling illustrations included, but the one on the cover was my least favorite.
It was nice getting a glimpse into how the author meant them to look. And Memory really isn't that much of a goth girl, mostly just the packaging. But she gives up her facial piercings pretty quickly in a world where it could be deathly to stand out too much.
She is pulled from one world to another, and lands right into the running-for-her-life situation of the Kingdom's princess who everyone thought was dead. Oddly sometimes she gets really resentful of the fact that people tend to pay more attention to the PRINCESS than her, and that seemed a little presumptuous, I mean....weird girl...princess...weird girl...princess, who are you naturally going to help out?
I found Memory's personality at times to be a little inconsistent, sometimes she seemed sulky or cynical, but from the other characters POV, they often viewed her as easy going and having a ready smile. And I kept thinking that wasn't the impression I was getting of her.
It was nice however, that Memory didn't fantasize and objectify the guys around her that much, she definitely noticed them, but she was able to make friends and act normal and didn't fangirl all over anyone reeking testosterone.
And just to kill off any hopes you may have when you start reading - they never do tell you her real name. She get's to know it (via an old driver's license) but us the readers, at least in book one, don't get to know.
August 29, 2013
Thank you to Selina French for the opportunity to review.
The concept was intriguing, but this story never really grabbed me. I thought there would be more necessary interaction with the fae, but that aspect felt more like a set piece. The magic seemed to be a plot convenience rather than an engine of story movement.
I found the character development inconsistent. Everyone always does the "right" thing for the right reasons, and the villain was just a bad guy after all. I would have liked to see more charm and self-preservation from Roen, more sheltered/spoiled behavior from Eloryn, and more caustic, defensive behavior from Memory, to match their back stories. I would advise the author to consider the nature and nurture that forged each, and consider the mistakes they might make along with the triumphs. A really engaging character must be somewhat human. Also, the almost immediate use of nicknames was jarring. I didn't feel it fit in the language structure of Avall, and didn't think Memory's character would fall into nick naming someone she barely knows.
The best developed and most creatively penned character was the dragon. I was disappointed that his role was so small. I wanted to know more about him and how he fitted in! If the next two installments are not yet written, consider exploring that neighborhood in your mythology. And give the fae a more decisive role - they're interesting.
At this point, I don't think I would pick up the sequel. I don't wonder about what comes next for Memory. She'll probably have another obstacle, she and her friends will figure it out together and triumph.
The concept was intriguing, but this story never really grabbed me. I thought there would be more necessary interaction with the fae, but that aspect felt more like a set piece. The magic seemed to be a plot convenience rather than an engine of story movement.
I found the character development inconsistent. Everyone always does the "right" thing for the right reasons, and the villain was just a bad guy after all. I would have liked to see more charm and self-preservation from Roen, more sheltered/spoiled behavior from Eloryn, and more caustic, defensive behavior from Memory, to match their back stories. I would advise the author to consider the nature and nurture that forged each, and consider the mistakes they might make along with the triumphs. A really engaging character must be somewhat human. Also, the almost immediate use of nicknames was jarring. I didn't feel it fit in the language structure of Avall, and didn't think Memory's character would fall into nick naming someone she barely knows.
The best developed and most creatively penned character was the dragon. I was disappointed that his role was so small. I wanted to know more about him and how he fitted in! If the next two installments are not yet written, consider exploring that neighborhood in your mythology. And give the fae a more decisive role - they're interesting.
At this point, I don't think I would pick up the sequel. I don't wonder about what comes next for Memory. She'll probably have another obstacle, she and her friends will figure it out together and triumph.
May 8, 2013
Memory's Wake (Memory's Wake Trilogy #1) by Selina Fenech
I really want to say the drawings in this book are fantastic; it really helped visualize the story and the character while reading Memory’s Wake. When I finished I went back and took another look as they are fantastic, not only is Selina a great artist she is a great author.
Memory’s Wake reminds me of the world that fairy tales are made out of and like I mentioned above the drawings only added to this fantastic story.
This story is a fantasy novel full of adventure and even some romance, right in the beginning we meet a young girl who somehow has appeared in this mystical land of Avall, Eloryn who is standing there when she appears has no idea how this young girl even got there. Eloryn who is on the run from the hunters because she used magic without authorization knows she must help the young girl or she could be hurt or killed. So they adventure begins. Eloryn name her new friend Memory, Eloryn and Memory have to work together to survive. During their adventure we meet Roen and Will who are some interesting character also.
Memory’s Wake is full of adventure, dragon’s, magic, wizards a mystical world awaits anyone who enjoys the fantasy genre.
I have rated Memory’s Wake a 3.5 star rating, and would recommend anyone who enjoys this genre to pick up a copy for yourself.
I really want to say the drawings in this book are fantastic; it really helped visualize the story and the character while reading Memory’s Wake. When I finished I went back and took another look as they are fantastic, not only is Selina a great artist she is a great author.
Memory’s Wake reminds me of the world that fairy tales are made out of and like I mentioned above the drawings only added to this fantastic story.
This story is a fantasy novel full of adventure and even some romance, right in the beginning we meet a young girl who somehow has appeared in this mystical land of Avall, Eloryn who is standing there when she appears has no idea how this young girl even got there. Eloryn who is on the run from the hunters because she used magic without authorization knows she must help the young girl or she could be hurt or killed. So they adventure begins. Eloryn name her new friend Memory, Eloryn and Memory have to work together to survive. During their adventure we meet Roen and Will who are some interesting character also.
Memory’s Wake is full of adventure, dragon’s, magic, wizards a mystical world awaits anyone who enjoys the fantasy genre.
I have rated Memory’s Wake a 3.5 star rating, and would recommend anyone who enjoys this genre to pick up a copy for yourself.
May 1, 2019
The first thing I noticed about Memory’s Wake by Selina Fenech is its gorgeous cover, and this is carried on inside with chapter illustrations that could make JK Rowling sigh with envy, all the work of the talented author-illustrator. This greatly enhanced my enjoyment of the accompanying story.
Memory’s Wake is unexpectedly literal in its title. The main character is named Memory, although not by her choosing, at least not at first.
***
“I’ll give you a name,” Eloryn promised in desperation. Only one thought came to her. “Memory. Your name is Memory.”
The girl looked both horrified and amused. “You’re cruel.”
***
Memory is a rebellious teen from our world. She suddenly wakes with no memory of her previous self, in the company of an incomprehensible blonde girl, and pursued by a gang of men with an actual dragon at their beck and call. I’ve had some pretty bad days, but I don’t think any of them have started quite that intensely.
And that emotional connection with the characters never faded—I remained engaged with them up until the end, which is unfortunately not as common an experience as I would wish.
Memory’s Wake is the first installment in a trilogy. But the initial volume is free, which I always look at as a singularly generous gesture from an author. Ms. Fenech is giving us an entire volume as a preview. If you like that, there’s an inexpensive box set. If not, nothing lost on the reader’s part. As an avid reader who frequently had bills that strained the available amount of money, I always appreciate the last part.
Memory’s Wake is unexpectedly literal in its title. The main character is named Memory, although not by her choosing, at least not at first.
***
“I’ll give you a name,” Eloryn promised in desperation. Only one thought came to her. “Memory. Your name is Memory.”
The girl looked both horrified and amused. “You’re cruel.”
***
Memory is a rebellious teen from our world. She suddenly wakes with no memory of her previous self, in the company of an incomprehensible blonde girl, and pursued by a gang of men with an actual dragon at their beck and call. I’ve had some pretty bad days, but I don’t think any of them have started quite that intensely.
And that emotional connection with the characters never faded—I remained engaged with them up until the end, which is unfortunately not as common an experience as I would wish.
Memory’s Wake is the first installment in a trilogy. But the initial volume is free, which I always look at as a singularly generous gesture from an author. Ms. Fenech is giving us an entire volume as a preview. If you like that, there’s an inexpensive box set. If not, nothing lost on the reader’s part. As an avid reader who frequently had bills that strained the available amount of money, I always appreciate the last part.
July 31, 2014
I received this book for free from Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Memory's Wake was a marvelously unique story, with endearing characters and a plot that kept me engaged. The mysterious elements worked extremely well and I never knew what was coming next, which made this a really fun and exciting read.
Memory's Wake is told from the perspective of four main characters: Eloryn, Roen, Will, and of course, Memory. I'm not picky about my book's point of view, but being tossed around this much can be a bit confusing if the author doesn't make the transitions clear. While I was always able to figure out the point of view, the transitions could have been smoother; I would have rather not had to figure it out. That being said, I did love these characters and reading from all their points of view did enhance the mystery and complexity of the plot.
Memory (sometimes called Mem) is the most central character, in that her mystery is the one you're most interested in solving (at least I was). In the first scene Memory is thrust into this medieval-esque world of magic and fae (which was pretty great, by the way), beat up, having to immediately run for her life, and and she has none of her memories. As a reader, we know what none of the characters do - that Memory has somehow come from our world - because she's wearing jeans and thinks of things like cell phones that are completely foreign to this world. As the story unfolds, we get to know Memory better and it's impossible not to feel for her. She's lost, in danger, scared and confused. And somehow she's managed to group up with someone who's problems are more important to everyone than her's, making her feel inconsequential and alone.
Memory's playing second fiddle to Eloryn (sometimes called Lory or El, which could be a bit confusing at first), the first character she encounters in Memory's Wake. Eloryn is on the run from Wizard Hunters, and like Memory, we have no idea why. We just know that something has gone terrible wrong when she passed through the Veil (some form of magical transportation) and that for some reason Memory was ripped through that same veil with her. Through Eloryn we begin to guess at the kind of magical world Memory's been placed in - for example, Eloyrn's magic is clearly forbidden, though again we don't know why. Eloryn has the most personal growth of the characters - she starts of scared and timid, but as the story progresses she really finds her voice and strength. She's also a marvelously compassionate person and she's got to figure out how to balance that with the need to be fierce and, well, kick ass.
Until these two ladies and forced travel companions grow into themselves, they're very lucky to have the support of the two leading men - Will and Roen. Will is a mystery for me still, we've only just gotten to know some critical details about him and I have a feeling he will be much better fleshed out in future books. He's a Tarzan like character, raised by the fae, and a bit wild. Roen, on the other hand, is a man of the world - he should have been a prince, but the kingdom's been taken over and his family has had to go into hiding. As a result, he's supporting them the best he can, as a thief. He wants to protect the girls but he feels ill equipped, mainly because he looks down on himself for the path he's been forced to take in life.
I enjoyed all the characters, and as a character motivated reader I was satisfied to see the way they moved the story along.
That's not to say Memory's Wake doesn't have a wonderful story. It does. The mystery surrounding Eloryn and Memory is heightened and intensified by the fact that they are being chased by the Wizard Hunters in this fabulously complex magical world. I would have liked to see more of this world and to understand it better. For most of the story I felt like Memory, drifting about in a complex world with rules I didn't understand. It worked well for the story though; my ignorance made the mystery of what was going on that much more complex. What I loved, though, was that despite my lack of knowledge there were enough hints along the way that I felt like I could potentially solve the mystery. Ultimately I picked up on some things, completely missed others, making it all the more fun.
For me Memory's Wake was a book of self-discovery more than anything else. Yes there's action and magical creatures and even a little bit of romance. But more than anything our main characters are figuring out who they are - and not just Memory - they all have a lot to learn about themselves and that journey isn't quite over.
The story and the world building were beautifully supported by drawings done by the author (some people get all the talent!!). I was skeptical when I heard there were drawings in the eBook - I didn't expect them to be very enjoyable in that medium. I was wrong. I loved these drawings (even when I was reading on my phone!) and often stopped reading just to look at it. Ultimately they did nothing to move the story along itself and yet they helped me to visualize the girls and what what was going on in different ways. I wouldn't want to read the book without them, now that I've had the privilege of reading it with them.
Ultimately, I really enjoyed Memory's Wake and look forward to reading the next book in the series. The ending left enough resolved to make me happy and yet I can see definite lingering uncertainties that leave it wide open to continue. I recommend this for anyone who enjoys fantasy stories, magical worlds, and young adult stories.
My Initial Reaction...
Memory's Wake was a marvelously unique story, with endearing characters and a plot that kept me engaged. The mysterious elements worked extremely well and I never knew what was coming next, which made this a really fun and exciting read.
The Characters...
Memory's Wake is told from the perspective of four main characters: Eloryn, Roen, Will, and of course, Memory. I'm not picky about my book's point of view, but being tossed around this much can be a bit confusing if the author doesn't make the transitions clear. While I was always able to figure out the point of view, the transitions could have been smoother; I would have rather not had to figure it out. That being said, I did love these characters and reading from all their points of view did enhance the mystery and complexity of the plot.
Memory (sometimes called Mem) is the most central character, in that her mystery is the one you're most interested in solving (at least I was). In the first scene Memory is thrust into this medieval-esque world of magic and fae (which was pretty great, by the way), beat up, having to immediately run for her life, and and she has none of her memories. As a reader, we know what none of the characters do - that Memory has somehow come from our world - because she's wearing jeans and thinks of things like cell phones that are completely foreign to this world. As the story unfolds, we get to know Memory better and it's impossible not to feel for her. She's lost, in danger, scared and confused. And somehow she's managed to group up with someone who's problems are more important to everyone than her's, making her feel inconsequential and alone.
Memory's playing second fiddle to Eloryn (sometimes called Lory or El, which could be a bit confusing at first), the first character she encounters in Memory's Wake. Eloryn is on the run from Wizard Hunters, and like Memory, we have no idea why. We just know that something has gone terrible wrong when she passed through the Veil (some form of magical transportation) and that for some reason Memory was ripped through that same veil with her. Through Eloryn we begin to guess at the kind of magical world Memory's been placed in - for example, Eloyrn's magic is clearly forbidden, though again we don't know why. Eloryn has the most personal growth of the characters - she starts of scared and timid, but as the story progresses she really finds her voice and strength. She's also a marvelously compassionate person and she's got to figure out how to balance that with the need to be fierce and, well, kick ass.
Until these two ladies and forced travel companions grow into themselves, they're very lucky to have the support of the two leading men - Will and Roen. Will is a mystery for me still, we've only just gotten to know some critical details about him and I have a feeling he will be much better fleshed out in future books. He's a Tarzan like character, raised by the fae, and a bit wild. Roen, on the other hand, is a man of the world - he should have been a prince, but the kingdom's been taken over and his family has had to go into hiding. As a result, he's supporting them the best he can, as a thief. He wants to protect the girls but he feels ill equipped, mainly because he looks down on himself for the path he's been forced to take in life.
I enjoyed all the characters, and as a character motivated reader I was satisfied to see the way they moved the story along.
The Story...
That's not to say Memory's Wake doesn't have a wonderful story. It does. The mystery surrounding Eloryn and Memory is heightened and intensified by the fact that they are being chased by the Wizard Hunters in this fabulously complex magical world. I would have liked to see more of this world and to understand it better. For most of the story I felt like Memory, drifting about in a complex world with rules I didn't understand. It worked well for the story though; my ignorance made the mystery of what was going on that much more complex. What I loved, though, was that despite my lack of knowledge there were enough hints along the way that I felt like I could potentially solve the mystery. Ultimately I picked up on some things, completely missed others, making it all the more fun.
For me Memory's Wake was a book of self-discovery more than anything else. Yes there's action and magical creatures and even a little bit of romance. But more than anything our main characters are figuring out who they are - and not just Memory - they all have a lot to learn about themselves and that journey isn't quite over.
The story and the world building were beautifully supported by drawings done by the author (some people get all the talent!!). I was skeptical when I heard there were drawings in the eBook - I didn't expect them to be very enjoyable in that medium. I was wrong. I loved these drawings (even when I was reading on my phone!) and often stopped reading just to look at it. Ultimately they did nothing to move the story along itself and yet they helped me to visualize the girls and what what was going on in different ways. I wouldn't want to read the book without them, now that I've had the privilege of reading it with them.
Concluding Sentiments...
Ultimately, I really enjoyed Memory's Wake and look forward to reading the next book in the series. The ending left enough resolved to make me happy and yet I can see definite lingering uncertainties that leave it wide open to continue. I recommend this for anyone who enjoys fantasy stories, magical worlds, and young adult stories.
October 27, 2016
Merci aux Éditions du Chat noir pour la réception et la lecture de l'un de leurs romans, dans le cadre de notre partenariat. J'adore cette maison d'édition (les personnes derrière, les livres, l'ambiance) et lorsque je lis une de leur histoire je suis totalement emportée me faisant oublier la réalité.
C'est le cas ici. Déjà la couverture est douce et en même temps nous pouvons la sentir sous nos doigts. c'est ce que je préfère. Apprendre en plus que les illustrations (couvertures et intérieur) sont de l'auteur est "magique". J'aime beaucoup ce que l'auteur fait de ses doigts.
Nous arrivons aux côtés d'une jeune adolescente de 16 ans qui semble être tombée, mais ne s'en souviens pas. Elle va devenir Memory tant que sa mémoire restera dans un coin bien cachée. La rencontre avec Eloryn, une autre adolescente qui semble être pourchassée ne va pas être de tout repos. Le mal de tête que la première a ne va pas être d'un grand secours. Il leur faudra courir pour échapper à des hommes qui semblent vouloir leur tête détachée de leur corps. Grâce à un homme "sauvage" elles vont s'en sortir et atterrir dans une grotte qui se trouve être sur la terre des Trolls. Pas de bol pour elles car le pacte interdisant de les manger ne tient pas ici. Entre temps nous faisons la connaissance du fameux "sauvage", mais aussi de Roen, un petit voleur à la semaine qui est doué dans son domaine. Et ce ne sont que les 4 premiers chapitres, tout au plus.
L'histoire débute très vite, nous sommes autant dans le flou que Memory et apprenons où elle se trouve en même temps qu'elle. La course poursuite donne des frayeurs. Les villes et villages semblent être différents de la terre, tout comme l'habillement. Je dirais qu'il manque de quelques descriptions, car même si les illustrations montrent quelques points, ce n'est pas assez à mes yeux. Très peu de temps morts et lorsqu'il y en a, c'est vraiment pour amener un autre problème aux personnages. De quoi les affaiblir physiquement. Le mystère qui entoure l'amnésie de Memory est tenace, il faut arriver vers la fin pour comprendre comment elle en est arrivée là. C'est intéressant de voir comment l'auteur arrive à lâcher quelques brides sans pour autant tout dévoiler. L'histoire se dévoile au fur et à mesure que nous avançons. A savoir qui sont-ils réellement, où ils vivent pour le moment. Ce qui se passe depuis bien des années pour que des personnages secondaires soient obligés de se cacher. La trame est bien ficelée et le récit prenant.
Concernant les personnages, nous en avons plusieurs. Memory qui est là sans se rappeler comment elle est venue. Habillée différemment des autres - imaginez un jean et en tee-shirt alors que les femmes sont en robes avec un nombre incertain de jupons - avec un vocabulaire différent qui pourrait faire penser qu'elle n'est pas comme eux : démon, sorcière, fantôme, seelie, etc etc. Memory est en quête de son identité dans un monde inconnu, digne des contes de fées. D'ailleurs quelques annotations sur Tarzan par exemple m'a bien fait sourire. La méfiance de la différence est bien posée de ce côté. Eloryn qui est en fuite perpétuelle avec son protecteur, le perd et se retrouve seule avec une amnésique. Leur rencontre avec Roen sera faussée, mais au final l'aventure va les happer tous les trois. Sans oublier ce "sauvage" Will qui les suis comme une ombre. Mais est-il malfaisant ou bienfaisant ? Le méchant a un esprit vraiment sadique, autoritaire. Encore un personnage qui veut le pouvoir absolu sur ces terres. Je regrette juste qu'il ne soit pas si terrible que je l'aurai cru, mais ce n'est que le premier tome.
D'autres protagonistes font leur apparition. Il y a ceux qui sont du bon côté et de l'autre. Ceux qui ne veulent pas se mouiller. Ceux qui jouent des doubles rôles. Ceux qui vont trahir sans le moindre remords. Ceux qui sont prêt à tout pour un morceau de leur chair. Bref il y a de quoi faire, il y en a pour tous les goûts.
Ce qui est sympa c'est que la personne qui semble être la plus importante, car elle est au cœur de toute l'histoire, je parle de Memory bien sur, n'est pas forcément la plus forte, la plus maligne, la plus en vu en quelque sorte. Une fois arrivé à un certain point, nous comprenons pourquoi. Les émotions qui passent par elle sont intenses, un peu moins pour les autres. L'écriture est fluide et passe facilement. Par contre je suis perplexe au sujet des voiles. Difficile d'expliquer sans raconter, mais je n'ai pas compris le temps mis pour Will à attendre. Je pense être passée à côté d'un point.
En conclusion, il s'agit d'un premier tome fantastique qui pose d'excellentes bases au niveau de l'histoire, un tout petit moins au niveau des descriptions. La féérie est plus que touchée du doigt. Les créatures sont nombreuses, la course poursuite ne s'arrête vraiment qu'à la fin. Sans oublier les révélations qui tombent les unes après les autres. De petits bémols qui seront sûrement rattrapés dans les tomes suivants. Et de plus quelques points m'ont vraiment surprise, que demandez de plus ?
http://chroniqueslivresques.eklablog....
C'est le cas ici. Déjà la couverture est douce et en même temps nous pouvons la sentir sous nos doigts. c'est ce que je préfère. Apprendre en plus que les illustrations (couvertures et intérieur) sont de l'auteur est "magique". J'aime beaucoup ce que l'auteur fait de ses doigts.
Nous arrivons aux côtés d'une jeune adolescente de 16 ans qui semble être tombée, mais ne s'en souviens pas. Elle va devenir Memory tant que sa mémoire restera dans un coin bien cachée. La rencontre avec Eloryn, une autre adolescente qui semble être pourchassée ne va pas être de tout repos. Le mal de tête que la première a ne va pas être d'un grand secours. Il leur faudra courir pour échapper à des hommes qui semblent vouloir leur tête détachée de leur corps. Grâce à un homme "sauvage" elles vont s'en sortir et atterrir dans une grotte qui se trouve être sur la terre des Trolls. Pas de bol pour elles car le pacte interdisant de les manger ne tient pas ici. Entre temps nous faisons la connaissance du fameux "sauvage", mais aussi de Roen, un petit voleur à la semaine qui est doué dans son domaine. Et ce ne sont que les 4 premiers chapitres, tout au plus.
L'histoire débute très vite, nous sommes autant dans le flou que Memory et apprenons où elle se trouve en même temps qu'elle. La course poursuite donne des frayeurs. Les villes et villages semblent être différents de la terre, tout comme l'habillement. Je dirais qu'il manque de quelques descriptions, car même si les illustrations montrent quelques points, ce n'est pas assez à mes yeux. Très peu de temps morts et lorsqu'il y en a, c'est vraiment pour amener un autre problème aux personnages. De quoi les affaiblir physiquement. Le mystère qui entoure l'amnésie de Memory est tenace, il faut arriver vers la fin pour comprendre comment elle en est arrivée là. C'est intéressant de voir comment l'auteur arrive à lâcher quelques brides sans pour autant tout dévoiler. L'histoire se dévoile au fur et à mesure que nous avançons. A savoir qui sont-ils réellement, où ils vivent pour le moment. Ce qui se passe depuis bien des années pour que des personnages secondaires soient obligés de se cacher. La trame est bien ficelée et le récit prenant.
Concernant les personnages, nous en avons plusieurs. Memory qui est là sans se rappeler comment elle est venue. Habillée différemment des autres - imaginez un jean et en tee-shirt alors que les femmes sont en robes avec un nombre incertain de jupons - avec un vocabulaire différent qui pourrait faire penser qu'elle n'est pas comme eux : démon, sorcière, fantôme, seelie, etc etc. Memory est en quête de son identité dans un monde inconnu, digne des contes de fées. D'ailleurs quelques annotations sur Tarzan par exemple m'a bien fait sourire. La méfiance de la différence est bien posée de ce côté. Eloryn qui est en fuite perpétuelle avec son protecteur, le perd et se retrouve seule avec une amnésique. Leur rencontre avec Roen sera faussée, mais au final l'aventure va les happer tous les trois. Sans oublier ce "sauvage" Will qui les suis comme une ombre. Mais est-il malfaisant ou bienfaisant ? Le méchant a un esprit vraiment sadique, autoritaire. Encore un personnage qui veut le pouvoir absolu sur ces terres. Je regrette juste qu'il ne soit pas si terrible que je l'aurai cru, mais ce n'est que le premier tome.
D'autres protagonistes font leur apparition. Il y a ceux qui sont du bon côté et de l'autre. Ceux qui ne veulent pas se mouiller. Ceux qui jouent des doubles rôles. Ceux qui vont trahir sans le moindre remords. Ceux qui sont prêt à tout pour un morceau de leur chair. Bref il y a de quoi faire, il y en a pour tous les goûts.
Ce qui est sympa c'est que la personne qui semble être la plus importante, car elle est au cœur de toute l'histoire, je parle de Memory bien sur, n'est pas forcément la plus forte, la plus maligne, la plus en vu en quelque sorte. Une fois arrivé à un certain point, nous comprenons pourquoi. Les émotions qui passent par elle sont intenses, un peu moins pour les autres. L'écriture est fluide et passe facilement. Par contre je suis perplexe au sujet des voiles. Difficile d'expliquer sans raconter, mais je n'ai pas compris le temps mis pour Will à attendre. Je pense être passée à côté d'un point.
En conclusion, il s'agit d'un premier tome fantastique qui pose d'excellentes bases au niveau de l'histoire, un tout petit moins au niveau des descriptions. La féérie est plus que touchée du doigt. Les créatures sont nombreuses, la course poursuite ne s'arrête vraiment qu'à la fin. Sans oublier les révélations qui tombent les unes après les autres. De petits bémols qui seront sûrement rattrapés dans les tomes suivants. Et de plus quelques points m'ont vraiment surprise, que demandez de plus ?
http://chroniqueslivresques.eklablog....
Want to read
December 19, 2019 Freebie on Amazon 19th December 2019
May 14, 2024
I thought that this book was good
September 14, 2020
This is such a very good story. Enjoyed it just as much the second time. Has lots of adventure and mystery.
July 7, 2011
GENRE: YA Fantasy Romance
THEME: Magic
RECEIVED: Received for Review from Author
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
REVIEW:
Memory’s Wake was such a beautifully written and illustrated novel that I almost have no words to express how much I enjoyed reading this book. Selina Fenech really captivated me with her fantasy world she created, along with four characters that I connected to so easily. Memory’s Wake is full of adventure, action, family love, lots of magic and a splash of romance to top it off.
A young girl wakes to find herself stuck in a world she doesn’t understand. There are no phones, or the little things that are used in her daily life…but wait she doesn’t even remember her own name. Taking the name Memory she travels along with a young girl named Eloryn to find out what happened to her and this girl might have the answer. With dragons, wizards, not so nice fairies and a very attractive savage that’s following her, Memory will do anything to get her life back and also try to keep herself alive.
I absolutely loved Memory; she is such a strong character who actually reminds me a lot of myself in high school. The hairstyle and clothing are almost to the exact description of my daily look back then. She definitely stands out in the world that she is lost in, with Victorian attire surrounding her black t-shirt and jean self, she sticks out. She is very determined to find out what happened to her and how she got to this new world.
Eloryn, whom Memory becomes friends with, is the polar opposite of Memory. Compared to her she has blonde hair, innocent in appearance and has nobility to her that shows she was raised in a different environment. I felt she was a little too nice for my liking at some points. Both girls together really fed off each other in scenes and brought the story to life with such different personalities.
The love interests in the book are two very different young men as well. They supported the girls perfectly and I really enjoyed all their interaction and mystery about their past. Roen is a young man who helps the girls through their journey in the book and Will a mysterious young man who has a connection with Memory that’s really fascinating. Fae are introduced through-out the book and have a huge impact on what happens to Memory and Eloryn.
Overall the plot was wonderful, I was really sucked into the world that Fenech created. What I also enjoyed were the illustrations, they were beautifully done and I loved having a face for the main characters, it gave that special boost of uniqueness. Memory’s wake has a bit of everything for young adult fantasy readers and I highly recommend this to everyone. I can’t wait for the second book!
RECOMMENDATION:
This is a young adult book for all ages, minor violence with some fight scenes. Fans of Cassandra Clare and Aimee Carter will love Memory’s Wake.
THEME: Magic
RECEIVED: Received for Review from Author
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
REVIEW:
Memory’s Wake was such a beautifully written and illustrated novel that I almost have no words to express how much I enjoyed reading this book. Selina Fenech really captivated me with her fantasy world she created, along with four characters that I connected to so easily. Memory’s Wake is full of adventure, action, family love, lots of magic and a splash of romance to top it off.
A young girl wakes to find herself stuck in a world she doesn’t understand. There are no phones, or the little things that are used in her daily life…but wait she doesn’t even remember her own name. Taking the name Memory she travels along with a young girl named Eloryn to find out what happened to her and this girl might have the answer. With dragons, wizards, not so nice fairies and a very attractive savage that’s following her, Memory will do anything to get her life back and also try to keep herself alive.
I absolutely loved Memory; she is such a strong character who actually reminds me a lot of myself in high school. The hairstyle and clothing are almost to the exact description of my daily look back then. She definitely stands out in the world that she is lost in, with Victorian attire surrounding her black t-shirt and jean self, she sticks out. She is very determined to find out what happened to her and how she got to this new world.
Eloryn, whom Memory becomes friends with, is the polar opposite of Memory. Compared to her she has blonde hair, innocent in appearance and has nobility to her that shows she was raised in a different environment. I felt she was a little too nice for my liking at some points. Both girls together really fed off each other in scenes and brought the story to life with such different personalities.
The love interests in the book are two very different young men as well. They supported the girls perfectly and I really enjoyed all their interaction and mystery about their past. Roen is a young man who helps the girls through their journey in the book and Will a mysterious young man who has a connection with Memory that’s really fascinating. Fae are introduced through-out the book and have a huge impact on what happens to Memory and Eloryn.
Overall the plot was wonderful, I was really sucked into the world that Fenech created. What I also enjoyed were the illustrations, they were beautifully done and I loved having a face for the main characters, it gave that special boost of uniqueness. Memory’s wake has a bit of everything for young adult fantasy readers and I highly recommend this to everyone. I can’t wait for the second book!
RECOMMENDATION:
This is a young adult book for all ages, minor violence with some fight scenes. Fans of Cassandra Clare and Aimee Carter will love Memory’s Wake.
April 6, 2013
I was really wary of this book at first. I adore Selina's art and that was my only true reason for wishing to read this, so I put off getting it. When she put it out free, I decided this was a good opportunity to check it out. Since it was an eBook, I was a little worried that the art would not be in it (I thought I remembered reading somewhere that the pictures were only in tangible books.) Immediately I was excited to see the art was in fact in the book. Thus I began...
The beginning started out iffy for me. Not bad, not boring...Just not completely exciting. After a short while, however, I got more and more into it. I was a bit put off at first, unaware that the book was written in the point of view of so many people, but I became used to it. Sometimes it was difficult to figure out or remember who was "telling the story" but I was able to quickly determine the character so my confusion was brief.
Otherwise, I was thoroughly and completely enamored with the book. I read a few chapters at night before bed, woke up and finished the book that day. Which is amazing because I have had a difficult time getting myself to read even my favorite books lately.
There are so many things I love about the book...The dialect. I adore how you can actually feel as though you are in that era. Even with Memory slipping in modern dialect, it does not become confusing to remember what time period it is. It truly feels like a modern girl lost in olden times. Next, the names. In writing my own book, names are of utmost importance, even the most minor characters. It is like naming a child to me. So to read a book with such exquisite names was a breath of fresh air. Very original and fantastical without being silly, confusing, or difficult. Then there are the creatures. I cannot stress how much I love that you chose unique creatures, instead of vampires. It was relieving to see fae and banshee for once.
The thing I loved most, though, was the emotion. This book made me feel. Not just one emotion, either. Sure books/movies are good when they make you laugh or make you cry, but it is so rare to have both and more in one. In this book I laughed. I also felt sad, sympathy, anger. An array of emotions. My heart went out to the characters. To me, the most important thing in a book is to be able to form a connection with the characters, to care about the characters. Selina succeeded in this 100%.
I highly, highly recommend this book. I cannot wait to buy a real copy and moreover cannot wait for the sequels!
The beginning started out iffy for me. Not bad, not boring...Just not completely exciting. After a short while, however, I got more and more into it. I was a bit put off at first, unaware that the book was written in the point of view of so many people, but I became used to it. Sometimes it was difficult to figure out or remember who was "telling the story" but I was able to quickly determine the character so my confusion was brief.
Otherwise, I was thoroughly and completely enamored with the book. I read a few chapters at night before bed, woke up and finished the book that day. Which is amazing because I have had a difficult time getting myself to read even my favorite books lately.
There are so many things I love about the book...The dialect. I adore how you can actually feel as though you are in that era. Even with Memory slipping in modern dialect, it does not become confusing to remember what time period it is. It truly feels like a modern girl lost in olden times. Next, the names. In writing my own book, names are of utmost importance, even the most minor characters. It is like naming a child to me. So to read a book with such exquisite names was a breath of fresh air. Very original and fantastical without being silly, confusing, or difficult. Then there are the creatures. I cannot stress how much I love that you chose unique creatures, instead of vampires. It was relieving to see fae and banshee for once.
The thing I loved most, though, was the emotion. This book made me feel. Not just one emotion, either. Sure books/movies are good when they make you laugh or make you cry, but it is so rare to have both and more in one. In this book I laughed. I also felt sad, sympathy, anger. An array of emotions. My heart went out to the characters. To me, the most important thing in a book is to be able to form a connection with the characters, to care about the characters. Selina succeeded in this 100%.
I highly, highly recommend this book. I cannot wait to buy a real copy and moreover cannot wait for the sequels!
December 17, 2011
Looking for a young adult urban fantasy with enough adventure, romance, and page-turning excitement to keep even the most easily distracted teen captivated? Then look no further than Memory’s Wake by Selina Fenech.
Imagine being dropped into a strange world with nothing more than the clothes on your back. From the opening pages, this is our heroine’s reality as she finds herself in a land called Avall. Her body is bruised, she is confused about how she got there, and she cannot remember anything about her life, not even her own name. She meets a beautiful yet timid human named Eloryn who has the ability to cast magic spells.
Eloryn’s unauthorized use of magic has her on the run from the wizard hunters who will not rest until she is arrested. Despite her own predicament, Eloryn decides to help this lost girl with pink-streaked hair, piercings, and ripped jeans find her way home. First, Eloryn gives her the name Memory. Memory and Eloryn must learn to trust each other if they’re going to survive as there is no shortage of danger in Avall. The wizard hunters, fae, dragons, and even the King of Avall, all want a piece of Memory.
Roen, the son of a Duke, joins the group after a failed attempt to steal from the girls. Roen fills the role of the handsome prince to Eloryn’s beautiful princess. Playing the part of the mysterious stranger and love interest for Memory is Will. Fenech gives all four characters turns as the POV narrator to paint a clearer picture of who Memory is, and does a remarkable job of giving each character their own perspective and unique voice.
Fenech keeps us guessing throughout. There is non-stop action and new perils to keep readers hooked. Fenech has a knack for setting up cliffhangers at the end of each chapter to make sure we can’t put down her debut offering. The setting is vibrantly described and the writing flows well; however, it’s the character development that sets Memory’s Wake apart. Memory is a strong yet flawed, believable heroine. Young readers will easily identify with the problems she faces.
If the vivid description in this novel is not enough, the author has included dozens of her own skillful illustrations. The story is wrapped up with an ending that won’t disappoint and readers will desire a sequel. Frequent POV changes may distract some readers in the early chapters, but overall, this is an exceptionally entertaining novel that I would highly recommend to tweens, teens, and adults alike.
Imagine being dropped into a strange world with nothing more than the clothes on your back. From the opening pages, this is our heroine’s reality as she finds herself in a land called Avall. Her body is bruised, she is confused about how she got there, and she cannot remember anything about her life, not even her own name. She meets a beautiful yet timid human named Eloryn who has the ability to cast magic spells.
Eloryn’s unauthorized use of magic has her on the run from the wizard hunters who will not rest until she is arrested. Despite her own predicament, Eloryn decides to help this lost girl with pink-streaked hair, piercings, and ripped jeans find her way home. First, Eloryn gives her the name Memory. Memory and Eloryn must learn to trust each other if they’re going to survive as there is no shortage of danger in Avall. The wizard hunters, fae, dragons, and even the King of Avall, all want a piece of Memory.
Roen, the son of a Duke, joins the group after a failed attempt to steal from the girls. Roen fills the role of the handsome prince to Eloryn’s beautiful princess. Playing the part of the mysterious stranger and love interest for Memory is Will. Fenech gives all four characters turns as the POV narrator to paint a clearer picture of who Memory is, and does a remarkable job of giving each character their own perspective and unique voice.
Fenech keeps us guessing throughout. There is non-stop action and new perils to keep readers hooked. Fenech has a knack for setting up cliffhangers at the end of each chapter to make sure we can’t put down her debut offering. The setting is vibrantly described and the writing flows well; however, it’s the character development that sets Memory’s Wake apart. Memory is a strong yet flawed, believable heroine. Young readers will easily identify with the problems she faces.
If the vivid description in this novel is not enough, the author has included dozens of her own skillful illustrations. The story is wrapped up with an ending that won’t disappoint and readers will desire a sequel. Frequent POV changes may distract some readers in the early chapters, but overall, this is an exceptionally entertaining novel that I would highly recommend to tweens, teens, and adults alike.
October 17, 2016
More of a 4.5
Rated 1-10:
Quality of Writing: 10
Descriptions: 9 - Could have used a tiny bit more description of the actual world, but the characters were so amazing it was hard to even notice it lacked that.
Words: 10
Dialogue: 10 - It's amazing how each character is able to speak differently. You could tell who they are just by how they talk! Especially Memory.
Pace: 10
Ease of Reading: 10
Enjoyability: 10
Plot:
Beginning: 10, I love the twist of amnesia, where even though she has no memory she still knows what a cell phone is and such though she's in a world where all that stuff doesn't exist. Talk about confusing for Memory!
End: 9 It's a trilogy but so far I think it could have easily ended with the first book. I'm curious to find out what more happens though. Hopefully it delves more into the world.
Development: 10 You don't know the full story to the end but it gives you just enough to slowly put the story together.
Insightfulness: 10
Completeness: 10
Over all Plot: 10
Characters:
Personalities: 10, as I mentioned in the dialogue part they have very distinct personalities that can even be seen just by how they speak. AMAZING characters!
Depth: 10 Love the back stories, especially of the villain and his thinking.
Development: 10
Realisticness: 10
Enjoyabiltiy: 10 Some of the most amazing characters I've been privledged to read about.
Insightfulness: 10
Worth Reading Again? No, Maybe, Likely Definitely
Content: Some mentions of what I believed to be talking about rape, it hints at one of the main guys being flirty and.... ya know, in his past but he doesn't do anything in the book, some magic, some violence, and a dragon kills a poor horse descriptively! D: Also when Memory meets the other main girl at the very starting to describe how pretty she is it says she's so pretty that Memory might have to question her sexuality but it never mentions anything else like that again and Memory isn't attracted to her in that way it was more of a modern way to describe a very beautiful girl.
Rated 1-10:
Quality of Writing: 10
Descriptions: 9 - Could have used a tiny bit more description of the actual world, but the characters were so amazing it was hard to even notice it lacked that.
Words: 10
Dialogue: 10 - It's amazing how each character is able to speak differently. You could tell who they are just by how they talk! Especially Memory.
Pace: 10
Ease of Reading: 10
Enjoyability: 10
Plot:
Beginning: 10, I love the twist of amnesia, where even though she has no memory she still knows what a cell phone is and such though she's in a world where all that stuff doesn't exist. Talk about confusing for Memory!
End: 9 It's a trilogy but so far I think it could have easily ended with the first book. I'm curious to find out what more happens though. Hopefully it delves more into the world.
Development: 10 You don't know the full story to the end but it gives you just enough to slowly put the story together.
Insightfulness: 10
Completeness: 10
Over all Plot: 10
Characters:
Personalities: 10, as I mentioned in the dialogue part they have very distinct personalities that can even be seen just by how they speak. AMAZING characters!
Depth: 10 Love the back stories, especially of the villain and his thinking.
Development: 10
Realisticness: 10
Enjoyabiltiy: 10 Some of the most amazing characters I've been privledged to read about.
Insightfulness: 10
Worth Reading Again? No, Maybe, Likely Definitely
Content: Some mentions of what I believed to be talking about rape, it hints at one of the main guys being flirty and.... ya know, in his past but he doesn't do anything in the book, some magic, some violence, and a dragon kills a poor horse descriptively! D: Also when Memory meets the other main girl at the very starting to describe how pretty she is it says she's so pretty that Memory might have to question her sexuality but it never mentions anything else like that again and Memory isn't attracted to her in that way it was more of a modern way to describe a very beautiful girl.
February 10, 2015
Memory’s Wake is an otherworld fantasy novel by Selina Fenech; she’s an artist and the novel is illustrated with several of her pieces.
This is a YA novel, with the main characters all appearing to be in their teens, and there’s a fair bit of focus on wistful glances and teenage angst. Of course, there’s also plenty of majestic dragons and fickle fairies and powerful magic; this is an action packed novel. The handsome savage, the elegant rogue, the beautiful princes, the girl with no memory but mysterious powers, all the familiar tropes make an appearance and are used to good effect, creating an internally consistent world and sympathetic characters. The writing is lush and descriptive, painting a very clear picture not only of the characters but of the clothes they are wearing at all times.
My main criticism of the story would have to be the title character Memory and her forays into the near impossible and sudden competence in subtle and powerful magic. Those times when I thought “hold on, that just doesn’t seem like something she should be able to do” threw me out of the story. They were partially explained, but not sufficiently enough - although there are two more books in the trilogy, so perhaps they’ll be expounded upon later.
The basic plot: The title character is pulled into existence by another girl, and they are both hunted by armed and armored men, and a dragon. They flee, of course, and escape, with the help of a mysterious half-naked man, and meet up with a thief who decides to help them after stealing from them. Then they seek safety and the secret of Memory’s identity, and the means to defeat the evil villain who wants them dead.
This is a YA novel, with the main characters all appearing to be in their teens, and there’s a fair bit of focus on wistful glances and teenage angst. Of course, there’s also plenty of majestic dragons and fickle fairies and powerful magic; this is an action packed novel. The handsome savage, the elegant rogue, the beautiful princes, the girl with no memory but mysterious powers, all the familiar tropes make an appearance and are used to good effect, creating an internally consistent world and sympathetic characters. The writing is lush and descriptive, painting a very clear picture not only of the characters but of the clothes they are wearing at all times.
My main criticism of the story would have to be the title character Memory and her forays into the near impossible and sudden competence in subtle and powerful magic. Those times when I thought “hold on, that just doesn’t seem like something she should be able to do” threw me out of the story. They were partially explained, but not sufficiently enough - although there are two more books in the trilogy, so perhaps they’ll be expounded upon later.
The basic plot: The title character is pulled into existence by another girl, and they are both hunted by armed and armored men, and a dragon. They flee, of course, and escape, with the help of a mysterious half-naked man, and meet up with a thief who decides to help them after stealing from them. Then they seek safety and the secret of Memory’s identity, and the means to defeat the evil villain who wants them dead.
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November 14, 2021This review was first posted on Northern Plunder, if you want to see more reviews please click here.
I actually read this book by in 2014, I originally got it as part of a book tour but I had to drop out as I underestimated how busy the first year of university would be, but I promised I'd still read and review it when able.
Which I did over the next few months and then I did one of my usual falls behind on all forms of blogging and its just been sat here nagging me.
Memory's Wake has a really interesting premise. It opens with the protagonist knowing nothing of herself or the world around her, even her clothes don't match the world she's in.
On her journey she meets Eloryn who is the opposite to her in almost every way, but they share one thing in common. They're both on the run for safety.
There are also illustrations throughout the book which I really loved. They added a bunch to the story, and as a just finished illustration student, something I found super interesting. I kind of wish more bookshad this.
My biggest trouble with this book is that it was the first fantasy I had read in ages so I found it a bit slow to get into and struggled remembering what was going on (though the studying didn't help).
However, it left enough positive thoughts for me that I intend to revisit this book one day and read the full series. There is no maybe out this, its something I truly intend to do.
I actually read this book by in 2014, I originally got it as part of a book tour but I had to drop out as I underestimated how busy the first year of university would be, but I promised I'd still read and review it when able.
Which I did over the next few months and then I did one of my usual falls behind on all forms of blogging and its just been sat here nagging me.
Memory's Wake has a really interesting premise. It opens with the protagonist knowing nothing of herself or the world around her, even her clothes don't match the world she's in.
On her journey she meets Eloryn who is the opposite to her in almost every way, but they share one thing in common. They're both on the run for safety.
There are also illustrations throughout the book which I really loved. They added a bunch to the story, and as a just finished illustration student, something I found super interesting. I kind of wish more bookshad this.
My biggest trouble with this book is that it was the first fantasy I had read in ages so I found it a bit slow to get into and struggled remembering what was going on (though the studying didn't help).
However, it left enough positive thoughts for me that I intend to revisit this book one day and read the full series. There is no maybe out this, its something I truly intend to do.
January 13, 2018
I have quite a few mixed feelings about this book, but this is probably a series I would like to continue to find out some of the details I am eager to know.
Starting to read this book, I got confused between the mixed perspectives that there was. I thought that the change in perspective from the start made it jarring and impacted the dislike I held for some of the main characters throughout the book. It wasn't till towards the end of the book that I came to like the protagonist. The only character that I liked throughout the book was Roen.
Though there is a lot of predictability in the storyline, this was not what bugged me the most. A lot of the time things were too convenient for the characters to get out of predicaments.
Why would I want to read the rest of the series? Simply for the moments in the book that were beautifully written. There were gorgeous descriptions and the illustrations were glamorous. Some points in the writing just made it a delight to read, and it is a shame that there were other things that didn't sit right with me. As I have mentioned before I would like to read the other books in the series as well. I might not be in a rush to read these, but I hope to come round to it.
I remember receiving this book free for kindle either subscribing to the author's page/ art page, or on one of those free ebook newsletters. If I was to re-read this book, then I probably would buy a paperback copy, since I struggle with ebooks sometimes anyway.
Starting to read this book, I got confused between the mixed perspectives that there was. I thought that the change in perspective from the start made it jarring and impacted the dislike I held for some of the main characters throughout the book. It wasn't till towards the end of the book that I came to like the protagonist. The only character that I liked throughout the book was Roen.
Though there is a lot of predictability in the storyline, this was not what bugged me the most. A lot of the time things were too convenient for the characters to get out of predicaments.
Why would I want to read the rest of the series? Simply for the moments in the book that were beautifully written. There were gorgeous descriptions and the illustrations were glamorous. Some points in the writing just made it a delight to read, and it is a shame that there were other things that didn't sit right with me. As I have mentioned before I would like to read the other books in the series as well. I might not be in a rush to read these, but I hope to come round to it.
I remember receiving this book free for kindle either subscribing to the author's page/ art page, or on one of those free ebook newsletters. If I was to re-read this book, then I probably would buy a paperback copy, since I struggle with ebooks sometimes anyway.
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