Swoon Thursday (#28): Starling by Fiona Paul

Swoon Thursday is a hot meme hosted by the fabulous ladies at YA Bound!

- From the book you’re currently reading, or one you just finished, tell us what made you SWOON. What got your heart pounding, your skin tingling, and your stomach fluttering

- Try to make the swoon excerpt 140 characters (or less), if you are going to tweet about it. Use the hashtag #YABOUND when tweeting

This week, my swoon is from Starling by Fiona Paul!

(Don't worry, I took out this gentleman's name. To be fair.)

"You deserve so much more than you think," he answered.

And then his mouth fell on hers, and it was different from the previous kisses, fierce, full of longing. He tasted her tongue and her lips, his hands ascending the ladder of her ribs until one cradled the base of her head and other buried itself deep in her hair.

He pulled her into his lap and her insides went weak, her body asking for things she'd never wanted before. His mouth trailed hot along the hard ridge of muscle in her neck. Cass exhaled sharply, her fingers crawling beneath his shirt to explore the contours of his chest, to trace the map of scars he had earned in her name.

[Redacted]'s hand dropped to her hip. As his mouth found her lips again, his fingers pushed aside the hem of her skirt until they grazed the bare skin of her leg beneath. She shuddered, her whole body trembling at his touch.

- ARC, page 258

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Read my review of Starling HERE.

(My super early review. Oops?)

I loved this book! Definitely my favorite of the series. So, who made you swoon? :)

Review: Starling by Fiona Paul

Starling by Fiona Paul

Book Three of the Secrets of the Eternal Rose series

Publisher: Philomel

Publication Date: March 20, 2014

Rating: 5 stars

Source: ARC sent by the author

Summary (from Goodreads):

To come.

What I Liked:

SPOILER FREE REVIEW! Unless you haven't read Venom. But if you have read both Venom and Belladonna, there are zero spoilers in this review!

Also, I feel like I'm not going to do this book justice with my review.

I don't even know where to start with this book. For me, this series has come a long way. Way back when, I read Venom, and didn't really like, a little more than a month ago, I read Belladonna, and enjoyed it! I was so happy to see several key changes in the series. Three weeks ago, I was sent this novel as a "delta" reader (I rather like that title!), and here we are. Conclusion novels are always difficult for me to review, because I hate seeing a series end, especially the ones that I enjoyed. I also feel the need to compare and review the entire series, in the review for the last book. Which doesn't make much sense. But anyway. I may have disliked Venom, but as I have completed the series, I have come to realize that this YA historical fiction series is one of my favorites.

I have a feeling I'm going to ramble in this review, so I'm going to narrow down what I liked into specific sections. I am so happy to finally *really* understand everything behind the Secrets of the Eternal Rose. Finding this book and clearing Luca's name seems to be the primary objective in the story. The plot might seem straightforward, but I love the twists and turns that Ms. Paul includes that make the story that much more interesting. While I didn't see character development in Venom, I could clearly see the depth of some characters' growth by the end of this book. And the romance - everyone wants to know how it ends. It ends... well. As does the entire series.

I am so happy that the Secrets of the Eternal Rose and the Book and that whole mystery is puzzled out! The series is set around finding the book, so obviously, a resolution of some sort would have been in order, but I'm just really happy that after being disappointed with its lack of mention in Venom, that everything about the Order is resolved in a way.

The plot was probably anything but straightforward. The book picks up where Belladonna left off - with Luca and Cass on the run. They go to Cass's villa, and after that, things get complicated. I'm not going to spoil anything, Ms. Paul kept the pace of the book moving, page after page. It seemed like Cass did not stay in one place for very long. Finding the Book, sneaking into rooms, escaping from places... there was no shortage of action and conflict in this novel. I love this aspect of the book, because this is a huge change from Venom, and (sort of) Belladonna. I found Venom very slow in pace, and Belladonna faster, but Starling kept going. You couldn't stop and absorb for a second!

NOT that that's a bad thing at all! I was pleased by how many situations and conflicts Ms. Paul put in Starling. It's not a confusing book (I promise!), nor is it hard to keep track and remember what happened in the past. That is another excellent thing I found - Ms. Paul has the ability to successfully bring readers back the overall story and the immediate story, without confusing readers or making readers feel like they've forgotten everything and must re-read the previous books.

Not that re-reading the previous books is a bad idea ;)

This is sort of a comparison from the beginning of the series (Venom) to the end of the series (Starling), but I'm very pleased by the evidence of character development in Cass. I feel like the rest of the characters stayed pretty static throughout the series, but Cass definitely changed - and for the better. I complained in my review of Venom how I thought that Cass was an ehhh character, with no development from the beginning of Venom to the end. But as I have finished the series, I can see how she has changed. While I still think her entire being is anachronistic, I love how Cass stands for herself and fights for what she wants, rather than follow someone and wait for things to come to her.

Ms. Paul puts Cass in very difficult and tricky situations, and I like how Cass deals with being placed in those situations. I finally really like Cass in this book, because I think she fights for herself, for reasons that she wants, and not for what she thinks others would want from her. Also, the courtesan thing? SO amusing! I admire Cass's gall to be around the courtesans. And they're pretty cool! The courtesans play a huge and important role in Starling. You'll see what I mean, and I hope you agree with me!

Okay... I've reached the point I'm sure most people care about the most: the romance. While I will NOT insinuate which young man is the lucky one, I will say that regardless of which one you like, I think readers will love the ending of the Starling, in terms of the romance. Forget "Team Luca" and "Team Falco" for a second. Think about Cass, her personality, who she is, what she stands for, and what she knows that SHE wants and needs. The young man she chose... well, she chose him for him, and for her. I know that probably doesn't make much sense, but if you're an astute reader, you'll know without having to know which young man she chooses.

Of course, I know some readers are going to disappointed, because Cass can't have it both ways! But again - regardless of what "team" you are on, I think you will be satisfied with the ending, in terms of romance. AND in terms of everything else!

So, I got the opportunity to read this book in early July as a "delta reader", to read through for historical inaccuracies (anachronisms) and such. One of the things that really bugged me in Venom was the presence of obvious anachronisms in the book. BUT, I have to say, I've read Starling several times now, and I am really happy with Ms. Paul's depth of research and the amount of time and effort she put into painstakingly making sure that she caught as many anachronisms as possible. I know I'm a crazy historical fiction fan and reader, and I look sometimes too deeply into stories, but I am proud of Ms. Paul because I barely found any at all (no obvious ones whatsoever!) in Starling.

And hey - one last point. THE COVER IS PURPLE! Purple is my favorite color! So, um, well, yeah. I'm glad they made this one purple, because it makes it extra special, since it's my favorite of the series.

If you've reached this point and you're reading this sentence and you're STILL not convinced that you should pick up this book and/or series, then I shall say: GO READ IT ANYWAY! Buy the books, borrow them from the library, borrow them from a friend... just go read them. 

What I Did Not Like:

I have nothing to say in this section. I'm not saying this book is perfect, but... no comments on dislikes!

Would I Recommend It:

YES! And people - this is coming from the world's pickiest reader that didn't exactly enjoy the first book. I did like the second book though. If you were like me - you didn't enjoy Venom, keep reading! It gets better. And then even better. Just trust me!

Rating:

5 stars - because 4 stars just wasn't enough. I am honored to have been given the opportunity to read this book so early! Thank you, Ms. Paul!

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Review: Belladonna by Fiona Paul

Belladonna by Fiona Paul

Book Two of the Secrets of the Eternal Rose series

Publisher: Philomel

Publication Date: July 16, 2013

Rating: 4 stars

Source: ARC sent by Paper Lit Lantern

Summary (from Goodreads):

In the second in the stunning Secrets of the Eternal Rose series, Cassandra Caravello is trying to forget Falco, the wild artist who ran off with her heart, as she grows closer to her strong, steady fiancé, Luca. But Luca seems to have his own secrets. When he’s arrested by soldiers in the middle of the night, Cass’s life is once again thrown into chaos. She must save Luca, and that means finding the Book of the Eternal Rose—the only evidence that will prove he’s innocent.

So begins her journey to Florence, a city haunted by whispers of vampirism, secret soirees and clandestine meetings of the Order of the Eternal Rose. And home to Falco, who is working for the Order’s eerily stunning leader, the Belladonna herself.

Can Cass trust her heart to lead her to the truth this time? Nothing is as it seems in this seductive thriller, where the truth may be the deadliest poison of all.

What I Liked:

You all know I didn't like Venom as much as I'd hoped. I gave it three stars - but at the time, I wasn't sure if the rating was truly representative of how I felt. I absolutely LOVE historical fiction - it's my second favorite genre - and I love history. So, it sort of hurt to be disappointed by a much anticipated historical fiction novel.

Nevertheless, I found Belladonna much more to my liking. Not only was Belladonna better in comparison to Venom, but it was just an all-around good book! I really enjoyed it! Especially, now that I've let it sit for a few days after reading it, I truly appreciate how much I liked it!

Let me start by noting the things that I liked in Belladonna that I didn't like in Venom. In my review of Venom, I said that I didn't really liked Falco, and the entire love triangle business. I still don't like Falco or the presence of the love triangle. BUT, Ms. Paul did something excellent in Belladonna that made me appreciate the love triangle and Falco's role a little more: she spun this book to have Cass less concentrated on Falco, and more concentrated on Luca. Falco is still highly present in this novel, especially in the second half of the book, and Cass's "feelings" (read my review of Venom if you want to know why I have "feelings" in quotation marks) for him are still there. But, as readers, we get to explore Cass's feelings towards Luca. 

I find this necessary, because a true, powerful love triangle would not just have the strong presence of one boy (typically, the hot, lust-filled, forbidden one) and the sometime-ish presence of another boy (typically, also hot, but more thought-filled). Ms. Paul let Cass (and readers) fall for Falco in Venom (except me, apparently). In Belladonna, we get to at least understand Luca's role in Cass's life. 

And just for the record - all of that wasn't really a spoiler, because Luca isn't physically present for the majority of the book. That's another brilliant thing that Ms. Paul did: while Cass's relationship with Falco is very physical, her relationship with Luca is more intellectual or emotional (and less physical, since they don't interact much). Brilliant!

Like I said in my review of Venom, I am on Luca's side. I still am. I still don't like Falco. I'm not insinuating anything - I'll leave it up to you to figure out the end of this book, in terms of the romance! 

Another thing I mentioned in my review of Venom was the lack of information on the Book of the Eternal Rose. In Belladonna, we get a lot more information about this, and the Order of the Eternal Rose. We get to see the purpose of it, and how it changes the entire series! I was particularly pleased to see this change - because I am disappointed when books based on a solid plot idea or completely overrun by the romance.

The plot - I already said that I am happy to see that we get a bit of an explanation of the Order of the Eternal Rose. But one of the things I liked most about this book was the faster pace. The first... third of the book was a bit slow - but for good reason. But the rest of the book was page-turning! While I thought Venom dragged a bit, I finished Belladonna quickly. The faster, more interesting plot made this book much more enjoyable than Venom. And let me tell you, especially towards the end, things get INTERESTING. In a dark and creepy way. YEAH. Get ready to meet Belladonna, the person! That was... intriguing.

And general things I found that I liked about Belladonna: I didn't find Cass as annoying as I did in Venom. She seemed more grounded and purposeful in Belladonna, and a little more intelligent in her decisions. She's still reckless and irrational sometimes, but I found that I understood her actions better, with her motives.

There is no crazy cliffhanger at the end - no deaths or disappearances or things that make the reader scream, "THAT'S IT?!". Of course, there is a final book coming in March. But I'm just saying that by itself, this book wrapped up pretty well, in terms of the plot. PLOT.

What I Did Not Like:

Despite my immense relief of liking the second book even after I didn't like the first book, there are still some things that I didn't like. I've already said that I didn't like Falco. I just find him annoying. Especially in this book. I just don't see his appeal! I'll leave him to you Team Falco aficionados.

There is still the presence of anachronisms in this book. The speech - so many contractions! I am so sure that people in Renaissance Italy didn't have contractions in their speech, like we do today. 

Another thing that bugged me was when the author would throw in a phrase or word in Italian. Technically, the characters are speaking Italian, because they are in Renaissance Italy. Obviously, we read it in English. So, it doesn't really make sense to add the Italian phrases, because it's redundant. 

On the other hand, I can see why the author did it. It adds authenticity to the setting, and culture to the characters. So, I'm not sure if I like this feature or not. It bugs me. But probably ONLY me. This isn't really an anachronism, but it's part of the speech of the time. Anyway.

Another anachronism that I found was something that I had to look up to be sure. In Venom AND in Belladonna, readers are aware that Cass has the ability to read and write. She has a journal, she writes letters and messages to Falco, she reads letters from Luca. But, I am certain that MOST women - especially genteel women - did not know how to read or write during this time period. Men handled all affairs dealing with reading and writing. If a women needed a message delivered, she would dictate her message to a footman or messenger. Women of noble birth usually grew up without the simplest and most necessary skills; instead, they learned to sew and knit and play instruments and do other artistic things that gentlewomen did.

Of course, this series is set during the Renaissance, and some high-class women (like, REALLY high-class - duke's wives, and whatnot) learned to read (and sometimes, write) during this time period. But the Renaissance wasn't the time where most women took it upon themselves to learn to read and write.

I had to research that, and most of the reputable sources I found were in agreement about this area of women's lives. However, if you're reading this review and you find an authentic source of information that negates my argument, please bring it to my attention! I don't want to draw negative light to something that is actually correct.

I know that all looks like a ton of "not liked" things, but I promise, they are little things that probably ONLY I would notice and not like. It's not that many!

Would I Recommend It:

I would definitely recommend it! I would tell you to read Venom just so you can read Belladonna... but many people were less critical of Venom than me. So, enjoy both, and join me in the wait for Starling!

Rating:

4 stars. This book was much better than the first book - and I mean that in the best of ways! I'm pleased with this book and the direction that this series is going.

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Spring Cleaning Giveaway!

Welcome to the Spring Cleaning Giveaway Hop! This is the first giveaway hop of I Am A Reader, Not A Writer in which I will be participating, and I am super excited!

Here is what I am giving away:

An ARC of Venom by Fiona Paul! Somehow, I managed to accumulate two ARCs of Venom, so I'm giving one away. This is a new ARC of Venom! I never touched it, since I got the other one before I got this one.

If you don't know much about Venom by Fiona Paul, click HERE for the Goodreads information.

So, the giveaway and rules!

- My giveaway begins on Tuesday, March 19th at 12:00 EST, and ends on Monday, March 25th, at 11:59 EST

- USA ADDRESSES ONLY (sorry, international people! I believe this is the first giveaway of mine that is USA only. Please don't be too angry! I'm shipping this one myself)

- You must be 18 years old or older, or at least 13 years old with a parent or guardian's permission (I didn't know this, and it makes sense, but it's illegal to take addresses from minors under the age of 13 years old)

- The winner has 48 hours to respond to my email, or a new winner will be chosen

- Please enter via the Rafflecopter widget below

- Don't cheat! PLEASE! 

That's it! Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thanks for visiting my blog! Keep hopping! :)

Review: Venom by Fiona Paul

Venom by Fiona Paul

Book One of the Secrets of the Eternal Rose Series

Publisher: Philomel

Publication Date: October 30, 2012

Rating: 3 stars

Source: ARC from a giveaway

Summary (from Goodreads):

Cassandra Caravello is one of Renaissance Venice’s lucky elite: with elegant gowns, sparkling jewels, her own lady’s maid, and a wealthy fiancé, she has everything a girl could desire. Yet ever since her parents’ death, Cassandra has felt trapped, alone in a city of water, where the dark and labyrinthine canals whisper of escape.

When Cass stumbles upon a murdered woman—practically in her own backyard—she’s drawn into a dangerous world of courtesans, killers, and secret societies. Soon, she finds herself falling for Falco, a mysterious artist with a mischievous grin... and a spectacular skill for trouble. Can Cassandra find the murderer, before he finds her? And will she stay true to her fiancé, or succumb to her uncontrollable feelings for Falco?

Beauty, love, romance, and mystery weave together in a stunning novel that’s as seductive and surprising as the city of Venice itself.

What I Liked:

I absolutely love historical fiction, so the setting of the Italian Renaissance something about which I was looking forward to reading. For the most part, I thought the setting was intriguing and enrapturing, and it definitely felt like I could place myself there. The Renaissance is one of my favorite historical time periods, and I am happy to say I was not too disappointed.

The plot was pretty straightforward. Girl finds dead body. Girl wants to know who, what, where, when, why, how. Girl gets help from hot but poor boy. Girl and boy think they fall in love. Boy helps girl, but keeps things from girl. Fast forward a lot. All is revealed at the end. Girl must make a choice. Again, straightforward. Predictable. Which is not bad (obviously, I liked it), because I could follow the plot very easily.

The romantic interests: Luca and Falco. That is not a secret, so I am not spoiling anything for anyone. I cannot believe I am saying this, but I am Team Luca. Usually, I would be on Team New Guy, the new, hot, rugged guy that does not seem perfect for the heroine. But I really, really like Luca. A LOT more than I like Falco. I was not completely taken it by Falco. 

Cass is an okay heroine. She tries to be a strong person, but in my opinion, she is not. Which is how it is supposed to be in Renaissance Italy: women are not supposed to think for themselves like that, and gallavant all over town. The fact that she does bothered me a lot.

What I Did Not Like:

There is a lot for this category. I am going to try and condense it.

First, Falco. My goodness, I did not like that boy. I can see Ms. Paul attempting to make him seem "sexy" and "forbidden" because he is of a lower class than Cass, but I really did not buy it. He just seemed dark and mysterious, but not in the usual yummy way. 

And Cass. Oh my gosh. Is she kidding me? She has spent all of like, a few weeks knowing Falco, and suddenly her heart is being ripped into two? WHAT? No. I do not buy Falco and Cass loving each other. I believe they love each other because each of them are forbidden to the other. They love the IDEA of each other. So, this romance sucked. I prefer Cass with Luca, but then, I am not a huge fan of Cass, so maybe Cass should end up with no one. 

Oh yeah, love triangle. You know how I feel about those. EW. This one is especially ridiculous, since Cass is already engaged to Luca, a steady, stable, handsome, RICH man that she knew when she was younger.

I also wish we could have discovered more about the Secrets of the Eternal Rose (I believe it is a book? I am not sure). There is barely any mention of it, besides those random pages in between chapters. I did not pay attention to them as I was reading. They just distracted and confused me. 

And here is my biggest sticking point: ANACHRONISMS.

This book is filled with anachronisms. Every time I saw one, I would cringe and get a little annoyed. For those of you that do not know, anachronisms are things that do not belong in the time period in which they are presented. 

For example, hydrogen bombs in the American Civil War. Not happening. 

Anyway, anachronisms are present in this book. The speech, for one. Sometimes Cass says things that really only apply to today's speech. One example I can think of is "Deal". "Deal" as in, "yeah, let's do that." People in Renaissance Italy did NOT say that, I am sure of it. There are others too, like "sure". NO. Just... no. 

Cass's entire being is anachronistic. Girls of Renaissance Italy did not think or act as she did. The only non-anachronistic thing she did was at the end (not telling). 

I am sure I am forgetting things, but I will stop here.

Would I Recommend It:

Probably. If you like historical fiction, go for it. Overall, this book did not impress me. I liked it, but I am not sure I will read it again. I will definitely continue the series though.

Rating: 

2.5 stars (I am rounding up to 3 stars. But honestly, the 3-star rating is pretty generous).

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Venom Readalong Week 4!

Hi! This post is for the Venom Readalong that I signed up for (and hopefully you did too!). I've had an ARC of this book AND Belladonna, the sequel, since November, and have yet to read either book. Thank you, Annabelle and Nikki, for having this readalong; otherwise, Venom and Belladonna might sit on my stack of books for a long time.

So! Here are my responses to this week's questions!

QUESTIONS FOR THE VENOM READALONG, WEEK 4

Did Luca's choices and the complexity of his character surprise you?

Not really - I knew there was more to him than Cass's unwillingness to marry him. I actually really like him :)
 

 Michel de Montaigne is quoted a few times. How did you feel this contributed (or did not contribute) to the novel?
 

Well, he's a  FRENCH Renaissance writer, but I think it's a nice touch nonetheless. It didn't really detract from the story, nor did it really add to it.

 Did you trust Falco the whole time?

 

Nope. Still don't.

 Did you find the character of Siena and her habits or fancies cliché overall?
 

No - she's a servant. She's also extremely loyal to Cass. I guess it is a little cliché that she would break certain rules for Cass, but I believe that happened more than a few times back during this period of history.

 As a whole, did you feel this book was sufficiently creepy and mysterious?
 

Not really. I felt like the mystery and intrigue part was overshadpwed by the "romance" between Falco and Cass. I'm putting that in quotes, because I was NOT feeling that romance at all. It felt rushed and unexciting (though it is supposed to be exciting for Cass), and did not feel real. I still sort of like Falco - he seems like an okay individual - but as a love interest, I do not see him as really there. Just a sidenote.

 Were you surprised by the ending?

 

No. I mean, the fact that Cristian was who he was, and what he did with Cass? Kind of. But the way the scenes at the end weer handled, Cass's plight didn't seem that pitiful.

 Do you think Cass made the right decision concerning the boys in the end? Would you do what she did (answer without spoiling!)

YES. YES. We as humans always want what we can't have, or what is forbidden. I guess it seems nice, but who is to say that she developed those "feelings" (if she developed any at all) towards Falco because psychologically, she knows that he is forbidden to her? What if those feelings are not real? Hmm...

 Were you right about the murderer? If not were you surprised?

I was not wrong, but I was not right. I did NOT expect it to be (...), but I had a sketchy feeling about him at (...) when he "helped" Cass.

 Now that you've met both, what Team are you?

*Sigh*
Luca. I usually NEVER like the classicly correct guy for the girl, and usually err on the side of the "new guy", and not the best friend or childhood acquaintance. BUT, I really like Luca. I feel like his feelings and intentions are more genuine. Cass's feelings towards Cass, and vice versa, do NOT seem real.

 What were your immediate thoughts after finishing?

Yay, I finished the Readalong! It's an accomplishment for me :D
Also, I felt a little disappointed by the end - it ends on a "romantic", choosing-a-guy note. I am not a fan of those.

QUESTIONS FOR THE VENOM READALONG FROM FIONA, WEEK 4

Were you surprised when Luca returned to Venice? Why or why not?

It was obvious, in my opinion, that he had been in Venice for longer than he let on. It's oneof those things that readers just know; there is a character that the protagonist DREADS to see. So, what does the author do? Plop him in, unbeknowst to the protagonist. Which was fine with me! I like Luca.

Did you find Luca to be more protective or controlling of Cass? Why do you feel that way? What secrets did you initially think he was keeping?

I do not find him protective or controlling in the sense that he specifically wants to control her. I think he knows more than he lets on (obviously, as we are clued in at the end), and therefore, he wants her safe. I don't think it's about having control or the upperhand. Although it could be. Luca seems like more of a steady, hard-working person that wants stability in his and his fiancée's life. And everyone has secrets. Some people's secrets are just worse of more significant than other people's secrets. I believed he kept secrets about his life (I know, that's really general), which is why he was always away.

Why do you think Falco sent his roommate to deliver his message to Cass instead of coming himself?

Obviously, he does not want to face her. Whether because he wants to give her space, or he is a coward, he makes another person do it (to the ill fortune of that person). I think he thinks it is because he wants her to make a choice without him influencing her directly, but I think it's because he's a bit of a coward.
 

How did you feel about the Michel de Montaigne quote on the top of page 352: "Each man calls barbarism what is not his own practice, for indeed it seems we have no other test of truth and reason than the example and pattern of the opinions and customs of the country in which we live." What does that mean to you?

We don't consider our own actions "barbarism", because really, we base everything we do off of another person's actions, or beliefs, or experiences. That's a perfectly rational and true statement.
 

How did you feel about Cass essentially skipping her best friend's wedding to go look for Falco? Understandable? Unforgivable? How did you feel about her obligating Siena to cover for her?

That's... that's bad. I am going to make an assumption that women in this society (of this time period) were very dependent on their fellow women friends, and therefore, Cass is being extremely selfish in her actions. She should have tried to find Falco LATER.

It is AWFUL that she involves Sienna. I said earlier that Sienna did her duty as a servant and followed Cass's orders, but COME ON. Sienna needs that job, more than Cass needs Falco. Servants come and go in this society (from my understanding). Several mishaps, and a servant is released of service. Cass is extremely selfish by making Sienna lie for her.
 

How did you feel about Luca's reveal of his secret? Would you have been angry at him if you were Cass? Why do you think he felt he couldn't confide in her?

Like I said, everyone has secrets, some greater than others. As a MAN (think about the time period), Luca does not have to tell Cass anything. Oh the anachronisms in this book. This book is so romanticized, to make characters (*cough cough* CASS) more modern.

He does not HAVE to confide in her. And he felt like he couldn't, probably because she never wrote back to him! How could he know her, or trust her, even a tiny bit?! Yes, you can lie in letters. But she never even opened his letters.
 

I initially wanted a different ending regarding "the boys," but came to realize that Cass's decision is kind of the ultimate girl-power choice. How did you feel about her decision?

Girl power?! Hmmm... I disagree with that display of "girl power". Anyway, I am glad that she stuck with her original arrangement. It makes sense to go with stability, especially since I believe Luca is a good person (and he's about her age! HELLO. In this time, young girls married OLD MEN. So, I find this match a good one). I do not trust Falco, for whatever reasons.

So that's the end of Venom! I will be reading Belladonna soon, but I'm not going nuts to do so. I still can't figure out if I liked Venom a lot, or not. SO MANY ANACHRONISMS. They drive me INSANE. But you'll see me review soon :)

Venom Readalong Week 3!

Hi! This post is for the Venom Readalong that I signed up for (and hopefully you did too!). I've had an ARC of this book AND Belladonna, the sequel, since November, and have yet to read either book. Thank you, Annabelle and Nikki, for having this readalong; otherwise, Venom and Belladonna might sit on my stack of books for a long time.

So! Here are my responses to the third set of questions!

 

 

Cass rarely goes anywhere without her dutiful handmaid Siena in tow. Would you like to have your own handmaid? Why or why not?

I do not think I would want to have my own handmaid. It seems weird to be dependent on someone, all the time! Especially since that someone would know almost everything about me... I would not want someone that close to me.
 

It was very unusual for noblewomen in 1600 to be allowed to study, and later in the trilogy we will find out information about Agnese that explains why she allowed Cass this luxury. What subjects would you study if you were allowed to pick anything you liked?

 
Geography, mathematics, forensics, anatomy... really, any science or mathematics courses. Maybe a poetry class. Perhaps more natural science classes.

 

Several readers have brought up that Falco is kind of mean to Cass, teasing her about being rich and essentially calling her a coward. Did you find this as mean? Do you have friends like this? If there is a balance between challenging another person to be better and accepting them for who they are, where do you think Falco falls on this?

 

I find this realistic. Cass is a coward, right up to the end of the book (I finished it on Sunday). He is "keeping it real", as we would say nowadays. I am the friend like that. I tell my friends and family how it is, straight up. You want honesty? Ask me something. I rarely sugarcoat things. It comes off as rude and mean sometimes, but then, those are the times when I preface it by saying, "This will probably offend you", or, "I know this will sound mean but". Falco is challenging her to be free in her world, but at the same time, he is making no physical or psychological move to change her. He is spending time with her, which he should not be, so that may be a sort of influence. However, I do not think that he is forcing anything down her throat. He would be more towards challenging her, but at the same time, he accepts many things about her (her betrothal, for one). 
 

If there's a balance between brave and stupid, where does Cass fall when she sneaks out of the house to go investigate the chapel at San Giuda by herself? Have you ever wanted to know something so badly that you put yourself in danger to get your answers? do you think it is all right to expect more from book characters than from real people?

 
Maybe you have figured it out by now, but I am not a huge fan of Cass. I like her - to an extent. I think she is extremely stupid, especially for this time period. I do not find her actions brave or rebellious; I find them idiotic. However, I can see how someone could romanticize her actions. I sort of felt for her when she sneaks out to go investigate the chapel at San Guida. I am sort of the same way - I always want to know as much as possible. But I doubt I would put myself in danger for them. Book characters almost do things that most human beings probably would not do, if placed in the same situation.

 

What was your initial thought when you saw what Falco was doing in the graveyard attached to San Giuda? Did it seem horrible to you or not that big of a deal? Do you think your age or culture or religious beliefs affect how you felt?

I had a feeling that he had something to do with that. Actually, it seemed obvious that he was, by the time I got to this point. Just how was what I wanted to know. I felt bad for him, because he most likely had a good explanation (which he did!), and Cass did NOT wait for an explanation. So much for wanting answers. When she is faced with some part of the truth, she runs.

And that's it from me for the week! I'll be posting Week 4's responses next Tuesday!

Swoon Thursday (#3): Venom by Fiona Paul

Swoon Thursday is a hot meme hosted by the fabulous ladies at YA Bound!

- From the book you’re currently reading, or one you just finished, tell us what made you SWOON. What got your heart pounding, your skin tingling, and your stomach fluttering

- Try to make the swoon excerpt 140 characters (or less), if you are going to tweet about it. Use the hashtag #YABOUND when tweeting

 

 

This week, my swoon is from Venom by Fiona Paul - which I am reading for the Venom Readalong!

 

 

The swoon:

 

She pressed her lips to his, surprised by her own bravery, emboldened by the way his body responded to hers. They fell back deeper into the boat, its creaky wooden sides offering privacy in the already dark night. He kissed her harder, his tongue exploring her lips and mouth in circles. The small boat rocked underneath her, swaying with the gentle current of the canal. The wweight of his chest pressed down on her ribcage, her hipbones pressed against his, even through the many layers of garments she wore.

 

- ARC, pages 238-239

 

Author Blog | Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

 

I'M STOPPING THERE BECAUSE I'M NOT TELLING WHO THAT WAS! Unless you've already read the book, and then you know ;)

 

What made you swoon this week?

 

 

Venom Readalong Week 2!

Hi! This post is for the Venom Readalong that I signed up for (and hopefully you did too!). I've had an ARC of this book AND Belladonna, the sequel, since November, and have yet to read either book. Thank you, Annabelle and Nikki, for having this readalong; otherwise, Venom and Belladonna might sit on my stack of books for a long time.

SO! Here are my responses to the second set of questions!

 

How do you think Cass felt so out of her element in Chapter 9?

 

I imagine it is so strange to be stuck in a situation with a bunch of half-naked women and lust-filled men. I would never want to volunteer myself for that! "Out of my element" wouldn't cover how I would feel!

 

Do you think Cristian rescuing Cass was a coincidence?

 

Well, they say the walls have ears... perhaps someone sent him. Someone must be watching out for her, whether meaning good or meaning ill towards her. I don't believe in coincidences.

 

Do you think the tossing of her stays symbolizes anything? Or is it just a fun scene (that totally made me grin!)?

 

Of course it does! Or it should. It represents Cass tossing away constraints that she feels are a part of her life - propriety, order, rules, etc. Whether she actually does toss those formalities, we shall see.

 

Who do you think was behind the falcon mask?

 

Can I not answer this? I don't know. My first instinct was Luca, and I am sticking with it. But I'm saying that now, and will probably feel extremely stupid if/when it's not him.

 

What do you think of the whispered conversation between Falco and his friends?

 

Well, I assume it's about Falco's real "profession", and possibly a warning to stay away from Cass, or not to get attached. I'm not giving that part much thought right now, though I know it will come up later.

 

What do you think of this twist of events at the end of this section? (Remember no spoilers!)

 

Like... the part with Mada? Poor Cass. Running away seems like a good option! The part with Falco? THAT JUST SUCKS. She jumps to conclusions, but then, he does not really explain himself and his reasons. I know this sounds so vague, but "no spoilers"!

  In this chapter, Cass comes across prostitutes up close for the first time and finds herself enthrall we by the strangeness of it. How would you, as a sheltered high-class girl, have reacted?

 

Blergh. Not do it in the first place? If I did though, I would try and do it with dignity and poise, but also, I would try to stay in character. No lewdness, but less nervousness and anxiety.

  It's obvious Falco is keeping secrets. What do you think they are?

 

He's an artist, but something else obviously. He could be in on the body parts thing! That's such a lame guess. I don't know!

 

Why do you think he's hiding the truth from Cass?

 

He probably does not want her to see what he is doing. Perhaps he wants to impress her, or he wants her to only see the best in him, the best that he can display. Everyone has secrets - and everyone has reasons.

  What do you think of the found painting? Does it seem important or irrelevant?

 

Of Mariabella? Well, don't some serial killers collect, like, tokens of the people they murder? Like, treasures? Or, on a completely different side, it could be a portrait of her from the man of her life that she loved. One of Falco's artist friends? Speculation...
 

  When Cass asks Falco, "Why should I trust you?" he responds, "Because you want to." Is that a good reason for trust? Why or why not?

 

No. I don't trust people like that. She, as a woman (especially in that time period, probbly should not either. Also, he assumes that. Perhaps she does want to trust him (I believe she does), but how does he know that for sure? It wouldn't be good enough for me.

In general, what do you think of the names used in Venom? 

 

I love Italian names. I'm not a huge fan of Cass's nickname (Cassandra is nice, but I understand why Ms. Paul shortened the name to a nickname of "Cass"). I love the names Falco, Luca, Mariabella, and Sienna.
 

Venom has been (rightfully) accused of having dialogue and syntax that is too modern for its period. This was intentional, though I did try my best not to use anachronistic words. I messed up a couple of times at least--words like "okay" and "creepy" did not exist in the 1600s. Did you find the less formal dialogue helpful or distracting? Did it detract from the reading experience? Did you catch any other anachronistic words?

Haha, that was me that said that anachronism bit. It distracts me, obviously, since I pointed it out (maybe I wasn't the only one). Some phrases should not be used during the time period ("Deal", for example). I like when authors do a superb job of cleaning up anachronisms (I know Robin LaFevers, author of Grave Mercy, talked about that once). But, overall, I can get past the anachronisms, to read the text. But it bothers me enough to notice.

 

Cass is obviously a virgin, as all proper noblewomen were back then, and a subplot of Venom is her coming to terms with her first sexual feelings. Do you think the book would have been stronger in conveying that idea without the brothel scene? (Obviously some people found it scandalous, which is fine, but the inclusion of it was to use it sort of as a touchstone for Cass's increasing attraction to Falco).

 

I found nothing wrong with including the brothel scene. It shows how sexually inexperienced Cass is, as she is weirded out by the state of undress of the courtesans, as well as the sexual acts performed by men and women at the brothel. I think this scene actually strengthens the point that Cass is innocent, but slowly developing in her sexual nature.

 

What do you think about Cass's interactions with the man in the falcon mask? Does he seem crazy or just mysterious? What do you think about his statement that war can be beautiful?

Why does Cass wait so dang long to read Luca's latest letter, even though she takes notice of it almost every time she passes?

 

Errrr... weird. I wouldn't go as far as to say "crazy", but defintiely mysterious. I believe that war can be beautiful in its own way. War deals with people putting their passion for something on the line. Something is so important to a person, that it is worth fighting for. This makes war beautiful. As for the letter - I believe the presence of the letter bothers Cass enough as to not read it. It scares her, because it makes Luca more real, the wedding more real, and Falco more impossible.

 

 

And that's it from me for the week! I'll be posting Week 3's responses next Tuesday!