Skyward Series

4/5★

This book hooked me right from the start with its compelling dystopian theme and on-point humor. The main character in this astonishing novel is Spensa, the daughter of a 'coward' and society knows how to prove that to her every day. She lives with her mom and grandma who are poor outcasts because of the accused reputation of her father. Throughout the book we see Spensa grow from more than just an independent, violent misfit. With a realistic character and a journey of self-discovery, this book made my day. Brandon Sanderson has made quite the name for himself, and this book is a justification for his talent.

Recommendation

I would recommend this book to dystopian book lovers, but I must warn you that this is a slow-paced book, even including the plot twists closing every chapter. Seriously, this book defines 'just one more chapter.' This book left me speechless for one of the first times in my life because the writing is so eloquent but down to earth at the same time. It feels natural and realistic all while talking about aliens and living underground. Although this book had a slow-moving plot and barely any side character development, it was overall very refreshing. My expectations are sky-high with the next book.

Skyward

4/5 ★

I think Brandon Sanderson continued the vision for this novel and surprised us all after the amazing success of Skyward. The unique setting and gut-wrenching plot twists kept us readers on our toes, while giving us the comfort of a few of the same characters. And I will say, I have been waiting the ENTIRE first book for Spensa and Jorgen to get together. Although I think it was a bit rushed, I am glad they have each other's support instead of fiery altercations in this book, because it is heavy. From family issues to finding out who you are, Spensa discovers it all. Along with a couple of enlightening secrets. After reading this, I was ravenous for the third book, never doubting Sanderson's imagination.

Recommendation

I would totally recommend this book to both dystopian and realistic fiction lovers. Although the plot of a space cadet who pretends to be someone else on a planet with a bunch of aliens with politics fighting for a spot on the flight team is unrealistic, the emotions and behaviors shown by Spensa give a genuine feeling to the whole book. I think many people who like to read different genres could easily enjoy this book. In general, this book was very enjoyable and the plot was constantly suspenseful. The only thing that stops it from receiving a 5/5 is the lack of side characters. It feels as if no one is relevant except for the main character, which confuses things quite a bit.

Starsight

3/5 ★

Honestly the book wasn't bad, but it was a step down from the first and second books. It was some what predictable with the hero trying to do the right thing, but also figure out who they are and what it means to them. I think this whole book went down hill after the first few chapters. It was not as easy or quick of a read and I felt like the plot was just digging a bigger hole for itself. I get that Sanderson was trying to paint the picture that Spensa has been looking for who/what she was this whole time, and maybe she can finally find it, but it got out of hand in this book. Most of it was fluff, and the lack of real action bored me. And I love character development and introducing new characters, but this entire time Spensa and M-Bot have been the ONLY constant and that bothers me. But I did like some parts of this book. Specifically the wholesome moments where Jorgen and Spensa spent time reassuring each other. Those characters reminded me of why I loved the first book so much and thankfully kept me reading. Hopefully, Sanderson redeems himself with the upcoming 4th book, Defiant.

Recommendation

If you just want to continue the series I recommend reading this. But if you are more interested in quick reads and fast paced novels, maybe skip this and read another book. Don't get me wrong, I love Sanderson's books, but this one was not it. I rolled my eyes so many times my head hurt, and it was by definition a 'bad transition book.' In conclusion, unless you are a tenacious reader, don't put yourself through reading this.

Cytonic