Book Review: Ballad by Maggie Steifvater
Ummm…I love this book! This is newsworthy because I was not a fan of Lament.
Lament (to me) was mediocre. I never really feel in love with the idea of Luke and Deirdre. I only decided to read Ballad because it just came out and because Maggie is huge now because of Shiver. I was actually worried that I would dislike Ballad more than I did Lament. What a pleasant surprise.
Ballad picks up after James and Deirdre transfer to Thornking-Ash, the music school for the gifted. However, this novel is from James’ perspective. Dee still has a role, but it is much different than what you might expect. She is more like a major character with minor speaking parts.
I loved Nuala (pronounced Noola). As a leanan faire she had a very human side, which makes her more enduring. Good or bad we all have choices to make, and I respect her for her choice, even thought it causes her pain.
James. He was one cool dude. I really dug his character. He had some great witty one-liners and always true to himself throughout. He too made some decisions, choices that I respected and one in particular that was probably the toughest of his life.
Dee. Yuck. She spent her time pinning over Luke and ended up being duped by the Faire. I hope if there is another book Dee gets the chance to redeem her character.
I give this book 4 STACKS
FYI: Maggie states on her blog that she has lots more stories in mind for this series, however with her announcement of her 4-book deal I am afraid that it may be several years before we see another book.
i loved Ballad too! i almost didn’t read it and so glad i did. your review is spot on.
Yay! Glad I am not the only one!