The Red Pearl {Book Review & Tour}
The Red Pearl
C K Brooke
And if not, hopefully you'll start to trust my reviews, and return to find the next perfect book for you!
Story Overview
The Red Pearl
by C.K. Brooke
Genre: NA Fantasy/Adventure Romance
Release Date: November 2015
48fourteen
Summary from Goodreads:
by C.K. Brooke
Genre: NA Fantasy/Adventure Romance
Release Date: November 2015
48fourteen
Summary from Goodreads:
Treasure lost... passion found?
Antonia Korelli is on the run from her coven of priestesses. She never desired a life confined to the temple, relegated to chastity and service to the goddess, Azea. Instead, she longs for true love and adventure in the Kingdom of Elat.
Robin Watkins is a fiery dreamer on a mission of his own, to uncover the legendary lost Red Pearl. Only, he must first regain his treasure map, which was stolen by his former best mate and conniving ex-girlfriend.
When Antonia becomes unwittingly entangled with Rob, she's more than dismayed to find herself stuck on his harebrained hunt. But somewhere amidst their bickering and banter, their plight for survival through desert and tropics, and the joint pursuit of impossible dreams, Antonia begins to realize that perhaps she might have found the unforgettable adventure – and romance – she was seeking.
*Advisory: Contains some sensual/sexual content
Personal Likes
I appreciate the unique character of Antonia. She is certainly a girly-girl looking to find her dream man who will take her on adventures since she has spent her entire life being told how routine her life will be. She is willing to risk her life for a complete stranger, which show serious spunk that I did not quite expect. And still she is surprised herself with some of her willingness for adventure.
I also enjoyed Dr. Thaddeus Watkins. It's fun to a character's father add a little humor and relief to scenes that could have been boring. And who doesn't love an inventor and slightly odd father in a story? I read him a bit like Belle's father in the Disney cartoon.
And, just like Brooke's last book I reviewed, this was a quick read! Let's be honest, there is a lot to be said about being able to pick up a book and experience the whole thing in a weekend.
Personal Dislikes
I struggled with the world and setting in this book. It clearly is in a time with less technology, yet some of the phrases the characters used in conversation were modern, while others were way outdated. It left me confused and never allowed me to escape into the story.
Also there is a bit of unnecessary swearing, I did not need. And of course, as mentioned above, intimate scenes. We are not talking mature over the top here, but if this were a movie it would clearly be rated R. And I'm sorry, but I miss the poetic language that made it clear a couple had advanced their relationship, without being so black and white about it.
Overall, too much of this read like a young YA book, when in reality, I think it belongs in a NA category, as the characters are not in high school, there is a lot of mature interaction between the love interests.
Reading List Rating
I can only give this book a three heart rating... I just was never pulled in completely, and the world building lost me. And there was too much intimacy between characters that acted like immature young teenagers...
My Suggested Audience
I suggest this book to college aged readers and up. Simply because I do not condone such relationships in high school books... but I know I am a small minority here... Fans of quick fantasy novels - stories of hidden treasures, daring adventures - will most likely enjoy this one. It's quick and fun.
Wondering Questions to Consider
The YA/NA romance genre is getting flooded with new books all the time as more and more writers self-publish and because of the rise of Indie writers. As a result more and more young readers are getting their hands on these books, and we should all be aware. This story is a great example because while it doesn't hide the fact there is physical intimacy in the story, it still looks like a book a young teen might get their hands on.
Parents need to find good and trusted ways to get reviews. It's tricky though, because teens do not want to be told what to do, I mean what person does? And those teen years are when reading can become a chore. So even if your kids pick up books you'd rather they not read, maybe supply them with a review that supports your reasoning. But also let them read it, if they talk to you about the book. Because these topics should be discussed with our kids, even when they are almost ready to leave the nest, and fiction is a wonderful door into the difficult topics.
This book is great for discussions on physical relationships before marriage; being burned by trusted friends, and just how far we should go to help a stranger... just to name a few...
About the Author
C.K. Brooke is a 2015 Shelf Unbound Notable Indie author with a five-star rating by Readers' Favorite. She holds numerous fantasy and romance publications with 48fourteen, Limitless Publishing, and Elphame Press. Her lifelong passion is books - reading, writing, editing, publishing and blogging about them. When not blissing out in literary land, she enjoys info-tainment podcasts, singing, songwriting and playing the piano. She lives in Washington, Michigan with her husband and young son. There's tons to check out at the new CKBrooke.com, so come and see what she's up to! Check out her V.I.P. Readers Club (Subscribers get a free eBook!)
Author Links:
GIVEAWAY:
What sort of empty future awaited a person without a dream? #TheRedPearl @authorCKBrooke @Reading_List1
Have you ventured into the NA (New Adult) genre yet? What are your thoughts? In fact, what are your thoughts in the expanding genre categories in general- are there too many? Or is the breakdown helpful in finding fiction you like?
I'd love to hear from you, please leave me a little note!
** If you are considering purchasing this book, please consider using the affiliate link here and support Reading List in the process. I promise it won't cost you anything, but it will help me!
*** If you're interested in writing a book review on Reading List, please message me on the Facebook page! If you're curious about a book, ask me... I love to hear from you! If you would like your book reviewed on Reading List, email me: the link is at the bottom of this page.
**** While I received a copy of this book for the tour, I am not required to give a certain review. All opinions are my own. Blog Tour Organized by:
See where I share my posts!
0 coment�rios