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Ordeal
Luella, fierce, strong vampire,
Falls for a pretty human catch
Sent on her fiancé's desire
To celebrate they are engaged.
This unexpected turnabout
Is doomed to come to a dead end:
Her human sweetheart's dead to shroud;
Her fiancé's avenged for that;
And she is punished for blood treason,
Banished into a mortal child,
Whose human body is a prison
For all her powers to bind.
Her memories obliterated,
She is to find her love at last
Who proves to be too much related
To the misfortunes from her past.
Falls for a pretty human catch
Sent on her fiancé's desire
To celebrate they are engaged.
This unexpected turnabout
Is doomed to come to a dead end:
Her human sweetheart's dead to shroud;
Her fiancé's avenged for that;
And she is punished for blood treason,
Banished into a mortal child,
Whose human body is a prison
For all her powers to bind.
Her memories obliterated,
She is to find her love at last
Who proves to be too much related
To the misfortunes from her past.
215 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 7, 2010
About the author
Tatyana K. Varenko
2 books54 followersTatyana Varenko is a contemporary poetess from Kharkiv and one singular event inthe art of literature.
Though born and brought up in the Ukrainian-Russian environement, Ms. Varenko has transcended her linguocultural DNA and integrated English poetry writing intothe proud heritage of the national glory. She creates multiple unrealities where dreams and ideas sprout up across the Universe like the roots of Yggdrasil.
Tatyana Varenko writes par excellence like Shakespeare, rhymes like Pushkin, loves like Dante, thinks like Machiavelli, and smiles like Nietzsche.
As a professional and scholar, Ms. Varenko devoted herself to public service inpublic education and public administration at local institutions and authorities inmatters of global communication and international cooperation. Author of novels in verse Ordeal (2010) and Elfineness (2014) and laureate of international literary awards, she creatively synthesizes realms, religions, epochs, and civilizations to create her exquisitely sophisticated chefs-d’oeuvre.
Courtesy of Svitlana Kryvoruchko
Though born and brought up in the Ukrainian-Russian environement, Ms. Varenko has transcended her linguocultural DNA and integrated English poetry writing intothe proud heritage of the national glory. She creates multiple unrealities where dreams and ideas sprout up across the Universe like the roots of Yggdrasil.
Tatyana Varenko writes par excellence like Shakespeare, rhymes like Pushkin, loves like Dante, thinks like Machiavelli, and smiles like Nietzsche.
As a professional and scholar, Ms. Varenko devoted herself to public service inpublic education and public administration at local institutions and authorities inmatters of global communication and international cooperation. Author of novels in verse Ordeal (2010) and Elfineness (2014) and laureate of international literary awards, she creatively synthesizes realms, religions, epochs, and civilizations to create her exquisitely sophisticated chefs-d’oeuvre.
Courtesy of Svitlana Kryvoruchko
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
November 20, 2010
I'm enjoying it immensely as it impressed me srongly enough to keep me drawn to it and I just can't put it down even now after finishing reading it. I just feel the urge to keep on returning to it over and over again!
This is an exceptional read written with a steady lyrical rythm that feels like a heartbeat that adds up to the thrill once the dynamics stars. Besides, I've never thought it possible to poeticize so well and about everything, even trivial things and descriptions. It doesn't read, it flows on and on. For me this book is like nothing else I've read so far, it's even better than Shakespeare in the verse technique at the very least.
As for the story behind the lines, that's quite an unusual view on the vampire realm. The relationship between the main characters is indeed dark, dangerous and romantically intense. And the way the plot unfolds itself makes it impossible to talk about it without spoiling the intended effect from reading. The only tip I can allow myself to slip is keep in mind the backcover blurb while starting the read. ;)
I highly and srtongly recommend Ordeal as a must read to everyone favoring an excelelntly written romantically dark and emotionally intense story with a few hilarious moments.
This is an exceptional read written with a steady lyrical rythm that feels like a heartbeat that adds up to the thrill once the dynamics stars. Besides, I've never thought it possible to poeticize so well and about everything, even trivial things and descriptions. It doesn't read, it flows on and on. For me this book is like nothing else I've read so far, it's even better than Shakespeare in the verse technique at the very least.
As for the story behind the lines, that's quite an unusual view on the vampire realm. The relationship between the main characters is indeed dark, dangerous and romantically intense. And the way the plot unfolds itself makes it impossible to talk about it without spoiling the intended effect from reading. The only tip I can allow myself to slip is keep in mind the backcover blurb while starting the read. ;)
I highly and srtongly recommend Ordeal as a must read to everyone favoring an excelelntly written romantically dark and emotionally intense story with a few hilarious moments.
August 22, 2010
3 1/2 stars
This is a very nice dark emotional novel poem . If you’re into paranormal and poems and want something a little different this would be it. The story starts out as Alice is dreaming of being born and something is not quite right. Then she meets a mysterious man that disappears right before her eyes and the story grows from there. It starts out slow, but picks up in the middle, with a very nice ending.
This is very well written and to tell you the truth it surprised me how good it was. I would also suggest this one for young adults that’s into vampires, especially if you cant get them to read poems this would be a very good experience for them. But if you’re a regular paranormal romance reader you may want to look at other reviews before running out to buy this one, its not your typical PNR book.
This is a very nice dark emotional novel poem . If you’re into paranormal and poems and want something a little different this would be it. The story starts out as Alice is dreaming of being born and something is not quite right. Then she meets a mysterious man that disappears right before her eyes and the story grows from there. It starts out slow, but picks up in the middle, with a very nice ending.
This is very well written and to tell you the truth it surprised me how good it was. I would also suggest this one for young adults that’s into vampires, especially if you cant get them to read poems this would be a very good experience for them. But if you’re a regular paranormal romance reader you may want to look at other reviews before running out to buy this one, its not your typical PNR book.
July 9, 2010
A gothic-inspired story to alter your perception of and attitude toward the genres of vampire romance and poetic narration being a unique combination of both.
August 4, 2010
All I can say about this book is "WOW" I have never read a book like this before, and it was a wonderful read. This book was written like a poem, a unique experience that I really enjoyed.
The story begins with teenage Allison dreaming of the birth of a child. At the time she has no idea what the dream means for her. Allison has been going through her life since she was a child knowing she was different, that she didn't quite belong. On a hiking trip Allison is almost killed in a raging river, but she is saved by a mysterious man who disappears right after her rescue. Allison starts dreaming of this man every night, she doesn't know if he is real or not, but she can't stop thinking of him. As a few years go by she starts seeing her mystery man more and more, but she can't tell if he's real or not. Then one night she is awakened by a racket inside her home, and she comes upon a fight between her mystery man and a stranger. The mystery man runs off the assailant, and introduces himself as Derek.
Derek has been watching out for Allison since the day he saved her from the river. He couldn't understand his attraction to her, prey is prey, and she was definitely prey but he couldn't bring himself to drink from her. Derek decided that until he could figure it out, he would take up the job of her protector. He stays hidden from her until she becomes an adult, then he reveals himself to her and they become great friends. Derek is in love with Allison, and he suspects that she loves him as well, but love of a mortal is forbidden and he will have to face the consequences eventually.
This story had so many twist and turns. It started out a little slow, but as the story took off I was enthralled and couldn't put the book down. Allison and Derek had so many things to over come, so many things to find out. There was unbelievable heart ache and tragedy for Allison, she didn't even realize that she had a former life and what it entailed. It was heartbreaking when she got her memories back, and realized she was fated for the same doom.
The characters in this story are very strong, Allison and Derek's trials and triumphs stay with you after you finish reading the last word. When the truth of their past is finally revealed it is so shocking that you have to keep reading. I literally couldn't put this book down, Ms. Varenko's take on the Vampire lore is fresh and exciting. The idea of a totally hidden world that humans know nothing about, isn't new to us but in this story the perspective is fresh and totally different from any story I have ever read.
I don't feel like I'm giving this book the justice it deserves in this review, but I don't want to spoil the experience of reading this book for the next person. All I can say is... If you want to read a unique paranormal romance, written in the form of a lyrical poem, a book that you will not be able to put down no matter how hard you try. Then, this book is definitely for you.
*****5Stars
The story begins with teenage Allison dreaming of the birth of a child. At the time she has no idea what the dream means for her. Allison has been going through her life since she was a child knowing she was different, that she didn't quite belong. On a hiking trip Allison is almost killed in a raging river, but she is saved by a mysterious man who disappears right after her rescue. Allison starts dreaming of this man every night, she doesn't know if he is real or not, but she can't stop thinking of him. As a few years go by she starts seeing her mystery man more and more, but she can't tell if he's real or not. Then one night she is awakened by a racket inside her home, and she comes upon a fight between her mystery man and a stranger. The mystery man runs off the assailant, and introduces himself as Derek.
Derek has been watching out for Allison since the day he saved her from the river. He couldn't understand his attraction to her, prey is prey, and she was definitely prey but he couldn't bring himself to drink from her. Derek decided that until he could figure it out, he would take up the job of her protector. He stays hidden from her until she becomes an adult, then he reveals himself to her and they become great friends. Derek is in love with Allison, and he suspects that she loves him as well, but love of a mortal is forbidden and he will have to face the consequences eventually.
This story had so many twist and turns. It started out a little slow, but as the story took off I was enthralled and couldn't put the book down. Allison and Derek had so many things to over come, so many things to find out. There was unbelievable heart ache and tragedy for Allison, she didn't even realize that she had a former life and what it entailed. It was heartbreaking when she got her memories back, and realized she was fated for the same doom.
The characters in this story are very strong, Allison and Derek's trials and triumphs stay with you after you finish reading the last word. When the truth of their past is finally revealed it is so shocking that you have to keep reading. I literally couldn't put this book down, Ms. Varenko's take on the Vampire lore is fresh and exciting. The idea of a totally hidden world that humans know nothing about, isn't new to us but in this story the perspective is fresh and totally different from any story I have ever read.
I don't feel like I'm giving this book the justice it deserves in this review, but I don't want to spoil the experience of reading this book for the next person. All I can say is... If you want to read a unique paranormal romance, written in the form of a lyrical poem, a book that you will not be able to put down no matter how hard you try. Then, this book is definitely for you.
*****5Stars
May 17, 2011
What a darling volume of poetry cum storytelling. Reminiscent of vampire opera described in Anne Rice's Vampire Lestat books, Tatyana Varenko's book is immanently enchanting because of its theme and innocence. I have to confess a special adoration for such little treasures that have a shelf in my library.
As noted in her own verse, this is the tale of unrequited love between Alice, a past-life royal vampire, and her "pretty human catch," Derek. Fraught with the struggles and angst of young love and dangerous liasons, this little tome is meant for YA audiences, positively.
As an adult reader, I can only applaud Ms Varenko's attempts to put to four meter verse her frothy story of darkness and gothic doom. While it doesn't quite translate in all circumstances, its naivety is charming and not to be underestimated. It has much of the impact of Sleeping Beauty and a dark Rapunzel, both caught in a witch's sinister web and tangled in unimaginable dangers.
Her story is told, the gothic nature is preserved, the characters are fleshed out and visible to the reader and its quality is very good. What's missing is a flow of verse which causes it to be often jarring, interrupting the pace of the story. Further, I felt that Ms Varenko would have been able to give us more of her lush descriptive art had she not be constrained by verse. It took some time to look beyond this mechanical problem to enjoy her book. A good editor could have helped with this, however.
In addition, I lament that this darling poetry was splashed about with bits of slang and slippage of language. It distracted, sadly, from the atmosphere I believe Ms Varenko wanted to create. Again, an editor could have led her to see this.
I give this example:
"When you were born as a vampire,
You seemed to be designed for throne,
Cruel and cold to all desire,
But then he came -- and all went wrong.
You fell in lovey-dovey frenzy
Not seeing clearly ahead,
Your instincts and your mind got hazy--
The change was definitely sad."
To my mind, the "lovey-dovey" played childish to what was otherwise in keeping with her gothic rendering.
While "Ordeal" is not perfect in every way, it is a perfection of sorts. Like a strawberry shortcake whose whipped cream has slipped slightly askew, it's still delicious and tasty. You don't want to miss having a bite, and you can't help savoring every bit of it. That's what this book is like. It would make the perfect present for your "Twilight" loving or vampirish collecting friends.
I liked it. I see it as primarily a YA book that will be akin to those who love Edgar Allen Poeish poetry in their teens. And, for those of us who remember and love Poe, it's a skip back to those nostalgic days of Annabelle and the cliffside death.
Charming and darkly gothic... 3.5 to 4 stars.
As noted in her own verse, this is the tale of unrequited love between Alice, a past-life royal vampire, and her "pretty human catch," Derek. Fraught with the struggles and angst of young love and dangerous liasons, this little tome is meant for YA audiences, positively.
As an adult reader, I can only applaud Ms Varenko's attempts to put to four meter verse her frothy story of darkness and gothic doom. While it doesn't quite translate in all circumstances, its naivety is charming and not to be underestimated. It has much of the impact of Sleeping Beauty and a dark Rapunzel, both caught in a witch's sinister web and tangled in unimaginable dangers.
Her story is told, the gothic nature is preserved, the characters are fleshed out and visible to the reader and its quality is very good. What's missing is a flow of verse which causes it to be often jarring, interrupting the pace of the story. Further, I felt that Ms Varenko would have been able to give us more of her lush descriptive art had she not be constrained by verse. It took some time to look beyond this mechanical problem to enjoy her book. A good editor could have helped with this, however.
In addition, I lament that this darling poetry was splashed about with bits of slang and slippage of language. It distracted, sadly, from the atmosphere I believe Ms Varenko wanted to create. Again, an editor could have led her to see this.
I give this example:
"When you were born as a vampire,
You seemed to be designed for throne,
Cruel and cold to all desire,
But then he came -- and all went wrong.
You fell in lovey-dovey frenzy
Not seeing clearly ahead,
Your instincts and your mind got hazy--
The change was definitely sad."
To my mind, the "lovey-dovey" played childish to what was otherwise in keeping with her gothic rendering.
While "Ordeal" is not perfect in every way, it is a perfection of sorts. Like a strawberry shortcake whose whipped cream has slipped slightly askew, it's still delicious and tasty. You don't want to miss having a bite, and you can't help savoring every bit of it. That's what this book is like. It would make the perfect present for your "Twilight" loving or vampirish collecting friends.
I liked it. I see it as primarily a YA book that will be akin to those who love Edgar Allen Poeish poetry in their teens. And, for those of us who remember and love Poe, it's a skip back to those nostalgic days of Annabelle and the cliffside death.
Charming and darkly gothic... 3.5 to 4 stars.
October 22, 2010
Ordeal by T.K. Varenko surprised me because I was expecting the typical Twilight-like story given a little uniqueness by being set to poetic verse. At first, that assumption seemed correct. Normal girl has dreams about vampire boy and then vampire boy saves her life. The two fall in love, etc. That comparison soon drops off and the story takes off in a new and interesting direction.
Alice has always felt like she didn't fit in and life seems to have a 'been there, done that' type of feel to it. The only bit of adventure that she enjoys are her dreams of Derek, a handsome guy that she feels an instant connection to. She soon learns that Derek is real and that he feels as strongly for her as she does for him. In fact, his feelings are so strong that he decided not to kill her. Yep, Derek is a vampire... but don't start thinking of Bella and Edward yet. Derek and Alice have a history that the Twilight duo can't even come close to equaling and the story soon becomes very interesting when we learn that there's a reason for Alice to feel like she's lived through life before. Alice isn't just a person; she's a prison made of flesh, designed specifically for punishment. As Alice and Derek investigate the mystery of both their relationship and the life of a powerful vampire queen, they find themselves on a path that appears to end with the inevitable death of one or both of them.
I was intrigued and dismayed at the idea of a whole story being written as poetry and wasn't sure how it would work out. I'll admit the first couple of pages were a little challenging because I'm not really a poetry fan and the rhythm of the story took a little getting used to. After those first few pages, though, the poetry didn't really call that much attention to itself. The author has a way with words and this unique style of storytelling didn't get in the way of the actual story at all. As far the story itself, things pick up significantly once we get into the actual meat of the plot and it becomes more than just Alice and Derek being in love with each other. Still, focus on their relationship couldn't be avoided because their love is an integral part of the story.
How can you tell if someone is really in love with you? How can you tell if you're really in love with someone? Ordeal puts our two lovers through the ultimate test, resulting in an interesting and exciting story that might have you looking at poetry in a whole new way.
Alice has always felt like she didn't fit in and life seems to have a 'been there, done that' type of feel to it. The only bit of adventure that she enjoys are her dreams of Derek, a handsome guy that she feels an instant connection to. She soon learns that Derek is real and that he feels as strongly for her as she does for him. In fact, his feelings are so strong that he decided not to kill her. Yep, Derek is a vampire... but don't start thinking of Bella and Edward yet. Derek and Alice have a history that the Twilight duo can't even come close to equaling and the story soon becomes very interesting when we learn that there's a reason for Alice to feel like she's lived through life before. Alice isn't just a person; she's a prison made of flesh, designed specifically for punishment. As Alice and Derek investigate the mystery of both their relationship and the life of a powerful vampire queen, they find themselves on a path that appears to end with the inevitable death of one or both of them.
I was intrigued and dismayed at the idea of a whole story being written as poetry and wasn't sure how it would work out. I'll admit the first couple of pages were a little challenging because I'm not really a poetry fan and the rhythm of the story took a little getting used to. After those first few pages, though, the poetry didn't really call that much attention to itself. The author has a way with words and this unique style of storytelling didn't get in the way of the actual story at all. As far the story itself, things pick up significantly once we get into the actual meat of the plot and it becomes more than just Alice and Derek being in love with each other. Still, focus on their relationship couldn't be avoided because their love is an integral part of the story.
How can you tell if someone is really in love with you? How can you tell if you're really in love with someone? Ordeal puts our two lovers through the ultimate test, resulting in an interesting and exciting story that might have you looking at poetry in a whole new way.
June 26, 2010
I've read this book and really liked it! It has a captivating plot and I can't stop rereading this book! It's a great love story and it's about vampires. The characters are unique and I am eager to read the continuation. This book is written in verse and I would like to add my favourite quotes:
Disarmed, defeated but elated,
I knew at once you were the one.
That meeting was, no doubt fated.
You are my own midnight sun.
This monotonous world around
Seems boring, colorless, and dull.
I just existed till I found
You in my life which was banal.
You are my life, my very essence,
You are the air that I breathe,
You are the key to my repentance
Which I confess is not a breeze!
I raised my eyes to meet his gazing
And whispered to him, “I LOVE YOU!”
He looked so utterly amazing,
Divinely handsome, to be true.
No matter what abyss was gaping
Between the worlds that we belonged,
Love was a realm of an escaping
Deprived of any right or wrong.
I added only several quotes. I can add much more=)because I like everything. So I think nobody can compete with this author she is definitely talented and this story is perfect! IMHO
Disarmed, defeated but elated,
I knew at once you were the one.
That meeting was, no doubt fated.
You are my own midnight sun.
This monotonous world around
Seems boring, colorless, and dull.
I just existed till I found
You in my life which was banal.
You are my life, my very essence,
You are the air that I breathe,
You are the key to my repentance
Which I confess is not a breeze!
I raised my eyes to meet his gazing
And whispered to him, “I LOVE YOU!”
He looked so utterly amazing,
Divinely handsome, to be true.
No matter what abyss was gaping
Between the worlds that we belonged,
Love was a realm of an escaping
Deprived of any right or wrong.
I added only several quotes. I can add much more=)because I like everything. So I think nobody can compete with this author she is definitely talented and this story is perfect! IMHO
August 11, 2010
First thing first, I absolutely love the cover! Just from the cover you can imagine just how amazing this will be.
I hate to quote a fellow author friend, but I feel I must. As Ami Blackwelder said, Ordeal is written as if "Wonderfully written and a must read for poetry fans, paranormal romance fans, and lovers of old English, Shakespeare, or Edgar Allen Poe!" This is completely true! While written poetic as Shakespeare, it has the words of an Allen Poe story.
At first, I had absolutely no idea what was going on. All I knew was what I read from the synopsis. If you keep the synopsis in mind while reading the beginning of Ordeal, you should not get that lost. Because Luella is both the vampire queen and not but a human girl named Alice, you have two stories. While the hero stays the same, the heroin is always there, just in a different body. Because of the two heroins, technically there was two wonderfully ending to the couple's story.
If you are a fan of poems, Shakespeare, and Allen Poe, Ordeal is a must read. If you're not much of a poetic person, pick it up for the simple fact that its a memorable vampire love story.
I hate to quote a fellow author friend, but I feel I must. As Ami Blackwelder said, Ordeal is written as if "Wonderfully written and a must read for poetry fans, paranormal romance fans, and lovers of old English, Shakespeare, or Edgar Allen Poe!" This is completely true! While written poetic as Shakespeare, it has the words of an Allen Poe story.
At first, I had absolutely no idea what was going on. All I knew was what I read from the synopsis. If you keep the synopsis in mind while reading the beginning of Ordeal, you should not get that lost. Because Luella is both the vampire queen and not but a human girl named Alice, you have two stories. While the hero stays the same, the heroin is always there, just in a different body. Because of the two heroins, technically there was two wonderfully ending to the couple's story.
If you are a fan of poems, Shakespeare, and Allen Poe, Ordeal is a must read. If you're not much of a poetic person, pick it up for the simple fact that its a memorable vampire love story.
June 26, 2010
Ordeal is a very unique work written by T. K. Varenko. I would venture to say one of the most original piece I have read in a long time.
It is unique not only because of its archaic flare for Vampires of old, it is unique not only because of its words dripping with description and genuine dialogue, it is unique because it is told in lyrical prose. A poetry novel if you will.
Like Shakespeare, the world of words rolls off this author's tongue, leaving the reader engaged in a fanciful realm of tasty characters and unforgettable language.
I enjoyed the mouthwatering vampire tale that for many authors becomes cliche, vapid, and hackneyed. But for T.K. Varenko, the tale was as tantalizing as Edgar Allen Poe's works....
I give this five stars out of five stars!
Wonderfully written and a must read for poetry fans, paranormal romance fans, and lovers of old English, Shakespeare, or Edgar Allen Poe!
Reviewed by Ami Blackwelder
June. 5th, 2010
It is unique not only because of its archaic flare for Vampires of old, it is unique not only because of its words dripping with description and genuine dialogue, it is unique because it is told in lyrical prose. A poetry novel if you will.
Like Shakespeare, the world of words rolls off this author's tongue, leaving the reader engaged in a fanciful realm of tasty characters and unforgettable language.
I enjoyed the mouthwatering vampire tale that for many authors becomes cliche, vapid, and hackneyed. But for T.K. Varenko, the tale was as tantalizing as Edgar Allen Poe's works....
I give this five stars out of five stars!
Wonderfully written and a must read for poetry fans, paranormal romance fans, and lovers of old English, Shakespeare, or Edgar Allen Poe!
Reviewed by Ami Blackwelder
June. 5th, 2010
August 9, 2010
This is the first vampire theme novel I have read that was written in verse style. It did start a little slow, but the pace soon quickened and did not let up until the end. The details and descriptions in each of the verses were vivid and fascinating. I found this book not only to be unique in style, but also well-done and engrossing as I read the tale of a young woman and her encounters with a vampire. With the pacing of her rhythm, there were times that I found Ordeal to be remniscent of Poe. If you are looking for something different, I do recommend this book.
May 28, 2011
Lovely!
A charming poetic novel of vampire romance, sometimes dark, sometimes funny and all the way lyrical.
A charming poetic novel of vampire romance, sometimes dark, sometimes funny and all the way lyrical.
January 21, 2011
Review Of Ordeal By T.K. Varenko
When I found out this story was written in verse I was not sure how I would like it. I went looking for any reviews to see how other people felt. I saw a review (I wish I could remember where) that likened this story to William Shakespeare and Edgar Allan Poe. You see I am a die hard Shakespeare/Poe fan which had me wondering if this was really true or if this was just some reviews attempt to make this story into something other than it is. Please to not think I am beginning on a tirade to say how much this book wasn't so and blah, blah, blah quite the opposite in fact. This book took my breath away. I literally sat down and could not put the book down until I was finished. It usually can take me a day or two to get through 200 plus pages but I kid you not I read this book in like 2 hours. It was just an incredible piece of art. It truly did bring to mind Shakespeare and Poe. Luella a.k.a. Alice is a blood thirsty Vampire Queen who is in a constant struggle for power with her just as equally blood thirsty brother King Antoine. Antoine sets in motion a series of events which he hopes will bring about the demise of his sister but all he really ends up doing is setting the stage for this soul stirring love story about two soul-mates destined to be together no matter the cost or opposition. We also have Derek as the to quote the author "pretty human catch". Sadly this is about all I can tell you otherwise I will give to much away and therefore may impede someones enjoyment of this wonderfully gothic romantic tale. In some ways it brings to mind Romeo and Juliet albeit more blood thirsty and deranged (trust me in a good way) at times. On a scale from 1-10 I give this book without question a 10. I would definitely read another book of T.K.'s whether in was in verse or not although I would enjoy reading another one in verse....^_^. I urge everyone to pick up this book and let it cast is gothic beauty for you to bask in. It truly is an amazing piece of literature.
Link:
http://www.elfineness.com/
When I found out this story was written in verse I was not sure how I would like it. I went looking for any reviews to see how other people felt. I saw a review (I wish I could remember where) that likened this story to William Shakespeare and Edgar Allan Poe. You see I am a die hard Shakespeare/Poe fan which had me wondering if this was really true or if this was just some reviews attempt to make this story into something other than it is. Please to not think I am beginning on a tirade to say how much this book wasn't so and blah, blah, blah quite the opposite in fact. This book took my breath away. I literally sat down and could not put the book down until I was finished. It usually can take me a day or two to get through 200 plus pages but I kid you not I read this book in like 2 hours. It was just an incredible piece of art. It truly did bring to mind Shakespeare and Poe. Luella a.k.a. Alice is a blood thirsty Vampire Queen who is in a constant struggle for power with her just as equally blood thirsty brother King Antoine. Antoine sets in motion a series of events which he hopes will bring about the demise of his sister but all he really ends up doing is setting the stage for this soul stirring love story about two soul-mates destined to be together no matter the cost or opposition. We also have Derek as the to quote the author "pretty human catch". Sadly this is about all I can tell you otherwise I will give to much away and therefore may impede someones enjoyment of this wonderfully gothic romantic tale. In some ways it brings to mind Romeo and Juliet albeit more blood thirsty and deranged (trust me in a good way) at times. On a scale from 1-10 I give this book without question a 10. I would definitely read another book of T.K.'s whether in was in verse or not although I would enjoy reading another one in verse....^_^. I urge everyone to pick up this book and let it cast is gothic beauty for you to bask in. It truly is an amazing piece of literature.
Link:
http://www.elfineness.com/
November 17, 2010
Ordeal was such an unusual book. Its completely written in verse. I never expected to read a book in verse nor did I expect to read a vampire novel like this one.
What I liked the most about this book was the originality. There are so many vampire romances out there. I had actually started to feel like I am overdosed on such books. But Ordeal was such a refreshing change from the usual books in this genre.
Ordeal is a dark and yet a beautifully written poem that I felt emotionally connected to. I was surprised at how much I liked this book. I have never been a lover of poems which used to be a big problem for me in school. But this one kept me gripped! Its so very different from any paranormal romances I have read.
Ordeal has a great love story with words that will enthrall you and make sure that you read it in one go.
The only problem I faced was that since I am not used to such a style, it took me a bit of time to gather my thoughts and really take in the words. But once I got used to it, I read it within 5 hours!
I never thought I would describe a vampire novel as "beautiful" but Ordeal definitely is one.Apart from the unique style, there were enough twists to keep me hooked.Most importantly I felt connected to the characters.
Don't let the unique format deter you from reading the book. Believe me this is worth your time. The words flowed so smoothly, pulling me into the story even more.
I am really glad that I read this book. Since I have started blogging, I have read some books that I never thought I would read. Paranormal Romance was a genre that I had no intention to explore. But I am glad that I did. Its always great to discover great books like Ordeal.
Overall:
Dark, lyrical and an original take on the PNR genre.
Recommended:
Yes! To those who love PNR and to those who are tired of the usual vampire stories.
What I liked the most about this book was the originality. There are so many vampire romances out there. I had actually started to feel like I am overdosed on such books. But Ordeal was such a refreshing change from the usual books in this genre.
Ordeal is a dark and yet a beautifully written poem that I felt emotionally connected to. I was surprised at how much I liked this book. I have never been a lover of poems which used to be a big problem for me in school. But this one kept me gripped! Its so very different from any paranormal romances I have read.
Ordeal has a great love story with words that will enthrall you and make sure that you read it in one go.
The only problem I faced was that since I am not used to such a style, it took me a bit of time to gather my thoughts and really take in the words. But once I got used to it, I read it within 5 hours!
I never thought I would describe a vampire novel as "beautiful" but Ordeal definitely is one.Apart from the unique style, there were enough twists to keep me hooked.Most importantly I felt connected to the characters.
Don't let the unique format deter you from reading the book. Believe me this is worth your time. The words flowed so smoothly, pulling me into the story even more.
I am really glad that I read this book. Since I have started blogging, I have read some books that I never thought I would read. Paranormal Romance was a genre that I had no intention to explore. But I am glad that I did. Its always great to discover great books like Ordeal.
Overall:
Dark, lyrical and an original take on the PNR genre.
Recommended:
Yes! To those who love PNR and to those who are tired of the usual vampire stories.
September 10, 2010
Review:
An ages-old vampire, finds herself living a mortal life, with only dreams to remind herself of her past. These dreams include her birth, and the mysterious love who was the start of her downfall as a vampire. But, as a mortal her memories are disturbing, and not much else.
Derek is real. Derek is the person who saves her from drowning. And, Derek is who she falls in love with. Despite the fact that she is prey to him, and should know nothing of his secret world, the two form a bond. A bond that could be stronger than either could have imagined.
ORDEAL is a book told completely in verse. Though, I have never attempted to read a whole novel in verse before, I wanted to take a chance on ORDEAL, if only to prove that I have begun to widen my outlook since I started blogging and reviewing books. And, I'm really glad that it was the world of T.K. Varenko's creation that I chose.
The verse, and the language that Varenko uses reminded me of a more old-fashioned kind of vampire story. Actually, it reminded of a more old-fashioned story altogether. The paranormal element that drove the plot was almost secondary in my mind when I was reading. The pacing, the rhythm, the word choice were the things that kept me reading. I was enthralled, and I hardly noticed that I wasn't reading a traditional novel. Putting aside the verse aspect, ORDEAL was a solid love story that had a good ending, and kept me reading until that ending could be revealed.
3/5 for plot
3.5/5 characters
4/5 for language
My Rating: 10.5/15 Recommend
An ages-old vampire, finds herself living a mortal life, with only dreams to remind herself of her past. These dreams include her birth, and the mysterious love who was the start of her downfall as a vampire. But, as a mortal her memories are disturbing, and not much else.
Derek is real. Derek is the person who saves her from drowning. And, Derek is who she falls in love with. Despite the fact that she is prey to him, and should know nothing of his secret world, the two form a bond. A bond that could be stronger than either could have imagined.
ORDEAL is a book told completely in verse. Though, I have never attempted to read a whole novel in verse before, I wanted to take a chance on ORDEAL, if only to prove that I have begun to widen my outlook since I started blogging and reviewing books. And, I'm really glad that it was the world of T.K. Varenko's creation that I chose.
The verse, and the language that Varenko uses reminded me of a more old-fashioned kind of vampire story. Actually, it reminded of a more old-fashioned story altogether. The paranormal element that drove the plot was almost secondary in my mind when I was reading. The pacing, the rhythm, the word choice were the things that kept me reading. I was enthralled, and I hardly noticed that I wasn't reading a traditional novel. Putting aside the verse aspect, ORDEAL was a solid love story that had a good ending, and kept me reading until that ending could be revealed.
3/5 for plot
3.5/5 characters
4/5 for language
My Rating: 10.5/15 Recommend
October 8, 2010
Ordeal by T.K. Varenko was a fantastic read! Unlike your normal Vampire Romance, Varenko captures the essence of paranormal with such beauty.
Luella is the queen of vampires, and engaged to Antoine. The problem is that both want to rule the Vampire Realm.
When Antoine sends a mere human to his queen in celebration of their engagement, he never expected her to fall in love with him. In his anger, he has this mortal put to death.
In her devastation, Luella goes on the rampage and seeks her revenge for the death of her loved one. After her killing Antoine on her killing spree, she must be punished.
Her punishment sends her into an infant body where she must endure life as Alice, a human. As she grows, her memories are lost to her. That is until she finds herself fascinated with a man, that she believes is of her dreams.
In an unexpected turn of events, she finds love and her reason for being.
Varenko did a fabulous job with this story. Using poetry to tell this tale, she was able to entice and enthrall, keeping your interest until the very end. The beauty in which Ordeal is written, is both exciting, and completely different than any other "Everyday" vampire romance. Writing in this genre is a bit challenging, but to write in this genre using poetry? Phenomenal!
It truly is Poetic Justice. I give Ordeal ***** (5) Stars, BK Walker, http://bkwalkerbooks.weebly.com
BK Walker Books - All Rights Reserved
Luella is the queen of vampires, and engaged to Antoine. The problem is that both want to rule the Vampire Realm.
When Antoine sends a mere human to his queen in celebration of their engagement, he never expected her to fall in love with him. In his anger, he has this mortal put to death.
In her devastation, Luella goes on the rampage and seeks her revenge for the death of her loved one. After her killing Antoine on her killing spree, she must be punished.
Her punishment sends her into an infant body where she must endure life as Alice, a human. As she grows, her memories are lost to her. That is until she finds herself fascinated with a man, that she believes is of her dreams.
In an unexpected turn of events, she finds love and her reason for being.
Varenko did a fabulous job with this story. Using poetry to tell this tale, she was able to entice and enthrall, keeping your interest until the very end. The beauty in which Ordeal is written, is both exciting, and completely different than any other "Everyday" vampire romance. Writing in this genre is a bit challenging, but to write in this genre using poetry? Phenomenal!
It truly is Poetic Justice. I give Ordeal ***** (5) Stars, BK Walker, http://bkwalkerbooks.weebly.com
BK Walker Books - All Rights Reserved
August 24, 2010
At first when I heard that Ordeal was a paranormal story told in verse I was a bit worried and sceptical (I mean more than 200 pages told in verse?), not having read poems in years and not knowing if it would be something I would enjoy. All these doubts and worries solely because of its format. But I dived into the unknown and let me tell you, my fears were completely unfounded!
Ordeal is a wonderful, exciting and romantic paranormal story, yes told in verse in more than 200 pages! And because of that, it is even more amazing as a feat! Despite the narrative being in rhymes, the writing flows easily and effortlessly, it is humourous at times while romantic at others. Tatyana Varenko has created a quite unique and entertaining masterpiece.
Verdict: No matter if you enjoy or not poems, I would recommend you to give Ordeal a chance and read it, because it is a uniquely told, entertaining paranormal story, and I'm sure once you get the rythm of the narration the pages will just flew by (believe me, tht's what happened to me).
Plot: 7/10
Characters: 8/10
Ending: 8/10
Writing: 8/10
Cover: 9/10
Ordeal is a wonderful, exciting and romantic paranormal story, yes told in verse in more than 200 pages! And because of that, it is even more amazing as a feat! Despite the narrative being in rhymes, the writing flows easily and effortlessly, it is humourous at times while romantic at others. Tatyana Varenko has created a quite unique and entertaining masterpiece.
Verdict: No matter if you enjoy or not poems, I would recommend you to give Ordeal a chance and read it, because it is a uniquely told, entertaining paranormal story, and I'm sure once you get the rythm of the narration the pages will just flew by (believe me, tht's what happened to me).
Plot: 7/10
Characters: 8/10
Ending: 8/10
Writing: 8/10
Cover: 9/10
March 7, 2011
I won this at a contest and it took me a long time to get to it, due to some personal issues and lack of time, but I am so glad I made time to read it now.
It was really different than anything else I have read. I really enjoyed it's originality not so much in terms of plot, but mostly in terms of format.
It is written like a poem and let me tell you the rhyme is exceptional and makes sense too. It's not just rhyming for the sake of rhyme.
I really loved how it made me smile, giggle, get upset or even tear up at times. It wasn't as predictable as I thought it would be. It was actually pretty surprising and fun to follow and you really wanted to find out how this Ordeal would end for both Alice/Luella and Derek.
Very nice book and pretty easy to read, as well.
I read it in a couple of hours (because I was distracted) lol
If you want to read something different and refreshing, you wo0n't regret picking up this book!
It was really different than anything else I have read. I really enjoyed it's originality not so much in terms of plot, but mostly in terms of format.
It is written like a poem and let me tell you the rhyme is exceptional and makes sense too. It's not just rhyming for the sake of rhyme.
I really loved how it made me smile, giggle, get upset or even tear up at times. It wasn't as predictable as I thought it would be. It was actually pretty surprising and fun to follow and you really wanted to find out how this Ordeal would end for both Alice/Luella and Derek.
Very nice book and pretty easy to read, as well.
I read it in a couple of hours (because I was distracted) lol
If you want to read something different and refreshing, you wo0n't regret picking up this book!
February 6, 2012
Just to let everyone know I am a very open minded person but a book that is all in rhyme is a no no. I tried I really did to get into it but I couldn't. At first I was like OK... this IA great its different but after another chapter I actually got annoyed. Mostly because the author actuallychanges a sentence to one that is grammatically incorrect just so it will rhyme. Its frustrating.only sheakspear can pull that off and sorry buddy that's not you. Ahhh frustrating because when I read what it was about I was actually excited! I thought the idea of the story was great! Very dissappointed.
December 22, 2011
I really tried to like this, but THE WHOLE BOOK WAS WRITTEN IN POETRY FORMAT.
Which is... pretty cool... How the hell did the author do that?
Either way after I got over the shock of the book being in poetic versus, I found myself unable to follow the story....
It was like my mind could not get used to it.
So Kudos to the author for being Bad A$$ and taking a chance to try something different, but this just wasn't for me.
Kenya
Which is... pretty cool... How the hell did the author do that?
Either way after I got over the shock of the book being in poetic versus, I found myself unable to follow the story....
It was like my mind could not get used to it.
So Kudos to the author for being Bad A$$ and taking a chance to try something different, but this just wasn't for me.
Kenya
July 4, 2012
Not perfect but quite an entertaining read. The overall story is good, though the beginning felt a bit boring, it really picked up toward the end. The verse format also needs to get used to, but once you adjust, you love the story even more. It is quite a mixture I must say – romance (definitely), betrayal (of course), crafty intrigues, sacrifice and vengeance, love and blood, vampires (lethal and bloodthirsty), witches (just a few), and excellent poetry (as a bonus)
May 18, 2012
I have to say that the only bad thing about this book was that due to the verse form at times the descriptions felt lacking. Though in the suspense and feelings department the verse flow only intensified the thrill.
I loved the book and it definitely deserves 5 stars. I read it in just a few hours as the story twists and the anxiety of the main characters kept me reading.
I loved the book and it definitely deserves 5 stars. I read it in just a few hours as the story twists and the anxiety of the main characters kept me reading.
August 16, 2010
This book is a must if you are interested in vampire-related novels. The author's sophisticated style is supposed to blow you away. Some moments were a bit of a struggle to hold back the tears. It's a very easy and amazing thing to read. So I give it two thumbs up.
March 11, 2011
This was the first book that I've read by this author and I enjoyed her story very much. It was a little different as it was written in poem form. Haven't read a poem in a number or years but I got back into the swing of things as I kept reading it. I hope to read more by this Author.
July 4, 2012
Its a beautiful love story which seems to start out as a hackneyed idea of a human girl (Alice) falling for a vampire (Derek). But… Don’t jump into conclusions. Not just yet. Alice may not be what she seems and their meeting may not have been accidental, nor was their doomed longing for each other.
December 31, 2012
Ordered this book because someone recommended it to me. I do not like the writing style at all. I want a story not a bunch of paragraphs trying to rhyme. Sorry Varenko.
September 30, 2010
Poetry is not a normal genre for me, but seeing that this one was of a paranormal romance variety, I wanted to give it a try. My curiosity about how a poem could be written like a novel and be about vampires, led me to this book. Since this is not my normal style of book, this is not a normal review for me, not exactly sure I want to go about it the way I normally would. So I will break it down in parts.
The characters:
- Alice/Luella started out thinking she was just an average out of place, awkward kid only to find out that she was really very different from everyone around her. She was allowed to see her true past life as a Royal from the Vampire realm and she was being punished to live a life as a human for a crime against the royal family, her own family. *Not sure why, but I did have a difficult time (for the most part) finding a connection with her even though in the end I very much enjoyed her humanity showing through.
- Derek saw her from a distance, at first as human prey, then something inside of him stopped him from his vampire instincts of draining her. Finding out that at one time she was his one true love and that he had started out as the human while she was the vampire. Suppressed memories couldn’t stop him from knowing what he wanted. *Truly enjoyed this character and all his facets, would have liked more of his side of the story.
The Story line:
- Take two loves who are willing to do anything for each other and prove it over and over again by placing a curse on them to repeat it all till something is done differently. Great story concept and following the path as it was laid out was suspenseful and fresh.
The Poetry:
- While I am not well acquainted with poetry, this one was easy to read, understand and follow. There were a few stanza’s that felt awkward or like they were stretching the rhyming limits, but over all this basic four line verse did well to tell the story of Alice/Luella and Derek. My only complaint is that (in my opinion) following the metric form limited the story too much. At times it seemed to concentrate more on the rhyme of the verse than the content. This story could be more, the characters could be deeper, the story could be more intense. This balance between form and content will work for some and has shown me a new format that I might be willing to look for in the future.
The characters:
- Alice/Luella started out thinking she was just an average out of place, awkward kid only to find out that she was really very different from everyone around her. She was allowed to see her true past life as a Royal from the Vampire realm and she was being punished to live a life as a human for a crime against the royal family, her own family. *Not sure why, but I did have a difficult time (for the most part) finding a connection with her even though in the end I very much enjoyed her humanity showing through.
- Derek saw her from a distance, at first as human prey, then something inside of him stopped him from his vampire instincts of draining her. Finding out that at one time she was his one true love and that he had started out as the human while she was the vampire. Suppressed memories couldn’t stop him from knowing what he wanted. *Truly enjoyed this character and all his facets, would have liked more of his side of the story.
The Story line:
- Take two loves who are willing to do anything for each other and prove it over and over again by placing a curse on them to repeat it all till something is done differently. Great story concept and following the path as it was laid out was suspenseful and fresh.
The Poetry:
- While I am not well acquainted with poetry, this one was easy to read, understand and follow. There were a few stanza’s that felt awkward or like they were stretching the rhyming limits, but over all this basic four line verse did well to tell the story of Alice/Luella and Derek. My only complaint is that (in my opinion) following the metric form limited the story too much. At times it seemed to concentrate more on the rhyme of the verse than the content. This story could be more, the characters could be deeper, the story could be more intense. This balance between form and content will work for some and has shown me a new format that I might be willing to look for in the future.
February 16, 2011
When T.K. Varenko contacted me and asked if I would like to read her book, I had never heard of her or her book, Ordeal. I agreed to read it on the simple fact, I liked the blurb. In truth, I thought the stanzas written for the blurb were just a fun gimmick and promotional tactic. So imagine my surprise, when I began reading it and discovered that this short story was actually all written in verse. I was a little hesitant, thinking perhaps, maybe I should have researched it or something, but, I don't usually read other reviews, until I have written my own and I already told the author I would read and review it...So, I confess, I had to mentally push my self to read it.
It took me a few pages to get into the groove...You know to find the rhythm and lyrical meaning of the words . But once I did, the story flowed off the pages or in my case off the screen. There were a few moments, where the stanzas caused my mind to skip, backtrack, and re-read. On those occasions, the words didn't fit as nicely as the rest of the poem. They felt forced...more for rhyme than meaning....or the stanzas were stretched too much that they broke the rhythm. But, other than that...it made sense to me. I am in no way an expert on poetic formats and hidden depths. So, if I could understand it, then anyone pretty much could.
Ordeal was a love story of a couple whose fates were intertwined and stretched over several life times. One had to find redemption. One had to prove their love was true. Both had to overcome the forces that conspired against them and find their way back to each other for everlasting love.
I thought the author did a great job with the depth and detail of her characters. The fact that the author told thier backstory inside a story to help explain the past lives of Derek and Alice/Luella was cleverly done. I also appreciate that it couldn't have been easy to write with such substance in verse.
Overall, Ordeal was not only compelling and thought provoking, it was lyrical and fun. I was surprised I enjoyed it as much as I did. I loved the premise of the story and the intriguing twist written within the plot. I also appreciate how T.K. Varenko stepped outside the norm of paranormal romance and wrote something original in a fresh and unconventional way.
It took me a few pages to get into the groove...You know to find the rhythm and lyrical meaning of the words . But once I did, the story flowed off the pages or in my case off the screen. There were a few moments, where the stanzas caused my mind to skip, backtrack, and re-read. On those occasions, the words didn't fit as nicely as the rest of the poem. They felt forced...more for rhyme than meaning....or the stanzas were stretched too much that they broke the rhythm. But, other than that...it made sense to me. I am in no way an expert on poetic formats and hidden depths. So, if I could understand it, then anyone pretty much could.
Ordeal was a love story of a couple whose fates were intertwined and stretched over several life times. One had to find redemption. One had to prove their love was true. Both had to overcome the forces that conspired against them and find their way back to each other for everlasting love.
I thought the author did a great job with the depth and detail of her characters. The fact that the author told thier backstory inside a story to help explain the past lives of Derek and Alice/Luella was cleverly done. I also appreciate that it couldn't have been easy to write with such substance in verse.
Overall, Ordeal was not only compelling and thought provoking, it was lyrical and fun. I was surprised I enjoyed it as much as I did. I loved the premise of the story and the intriguing twist written within the plot. I also appreciate how T.K. Varenko stepped outside the norm of paranormal romance and wrote something original in a fresh and unconventional way.
July 14, 2011
Beautiful and Rare
I read Ordeal by T. K. Varenko not just once, but twice! I should probably begin by saying that I was more than a little skeptical about the chances of me liking this book when I first picked it up. I am not very familiar with poetic reads and also not particularly a fan of the paranormal genre. I did feel however that this book deserved a chance if only because the combination the author has managed to put together in it is powerful and original, not something that has been done many times before as far as I am aware.
Contrary to my predictions, I was completely hooked by Alice/Luella (beautiful name btw) and Derek’s story from beginning to end. The whole reason I read the book a second time was that the first time I was so eager to find out what would ultimately happen to the star-crossed lovers that I pretty much devoured the book in a little over three hours! The second read was an opportunity to better savor the author’s extremely enthralling use of language and setting. I did love this story. It has a Romeo & Juliet flavored sense of impending doom throughout and puts our characters through a myriad of challenges in their quest for true love that will take your breath away. I loved being able to relate to these characters, to their feelings and emotions as they uncover the truth about their undeniable connection, and also the sense of irony as we see Derek’s and Luella’s roles reversed in different lifetimes.
If there was anything about this book that wasn’t perfect for me, it was the fact that as much as I was drawn by the originality of the poetry, this device was at times manifestly limiting in terms of the author’s ability to dive deeper into the characters’ pasts and therefore our ability to know them better. The style was beautiful but at times the depth of the story suffered as a result.
All things considered however, I congratulate the author on this rare achievement of a book and I would definitely recommend “Ordeal” to those of you hoping to experience something new in the paranormal genre. Your will not regret giving this book a chance!
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review. I am in no way compensated for any reviews that I write.
I read Ordeal by T. K. Varenko not just once, but twice! I should probably begin by saying that I was more than a little skeptical about the chances of me liking this book when I first picked it up. I am not very familiar with poetic reads and also not particularly a fan of the paranormal genre. I did feel however that this book deserved a chance if only because the combination the author has managed to put together in it is powerful and original, not something that has been done many times before as far as I am aware.
Contrary to my predictions, I was completely hooked by Alice/Luella (beautiful name btw) and Derek’s story from beginning to end. The whole reason I read the book a second time was that the first time I was so eager to find out what would ultimately happen to the star-crossed lovers that I pretty much devoured the book in a little over three hours! The second read was an opportunity to better savor the author’s extremely enthralling use of language and setting. I did love this story. It has a Romeo & Juliet flavored sense of impending doom throughout and puts our characters through a myriad of challenges in their quest for true love that will take your breath away. I loved being able to relate to these characters, to their feelings and emotions as they uncover the truth about their undeniable connection, and also the sense of irony as we see Derek’s and Luella’s roles reversed in different lifetimes.
If there was anything about this book that wasn’t perfect for me, it was the fact that as much as I was drawn by the originality of the poetry, this device was at times manifestly limiting in terms of the author’s ability to dive deeper into the characters’ pasts and therefore our ability to know them better. The style was beautiful but at times the depth of the story suffered as a result.
All things considered however, I congratulate the author on this rare achievement of a book and I would definitely recommend “Ordeal” to those of you hoping to experience something new in the paranormal genre. Your will not regret giving this book a chance!
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review. I am in no way compensated for any reviews that I write.
October 8, 2010
This was the first book I ever read that was written in verse. I think the closet I’ve ever come to reading anything like this is my friend Tiger’s Sunday Sonnet reviews on her blog http://tigersallconsumingbooks.blogsp....
It's just not my thing. I get lost when it comes to poetry.
I was skeptical that I would even be able to figure out what the author was trying to say never mind enjoy it but I gave it a chance since the subject matter was right up my alley…vampires.
So what’s my verdict? I read the whole thing in just over three hours and I loved it.
Luella was a vampire queen, punished for the act of blood treason and forced into the body of a human infant, never remembering her past or who she was.
Derek, also a vampire, stumbles upon her one day but instead of feeding from and killing her, falls in love.
What follows is a story about fate, true love and betrayal.
The style has its limitations. For example, you can’t explore the backgrounds of everyone as you might in a traditional telling and the focus is basically on Derek and Luella (Alice in her mortal form).
But with that intense focus of just the two characters, you get very much involved with Derek and Luella’s story and I found myself shifting through their emotions of love, fear, amusement and shock right along with them.
Ordeal was a great introduction to verse and I will seek out more books written this way.
Loved: True love – I’m a sucker for it and Ordeal has it! The story almost had a magical fairy tale quality to it.
Nitpick: A story told in verse has its limitations. You don’t get the full story but I didn’t feel it was too much of a problem here.
It's just not my thing. I get lost when it comes to poetry.
I was skeptical that I would even be able to figure out what the author was trying to say never mind enjoy it but I gave it a chance since the subject matter was right up my alley…vampires.
So what’s my verdict? I read the whole thing in just over three hours and I loved it.
Luella was a vampire queen, punished for the act of blood treason and forced into the body of a human infant, never remembering her past or who she was.
Derek, also a vampire, stumbles upon her one day but instead of feeding from and killing her, falls in love.
What follows is a story about fate, true love and betrayal.
The style has its limitations. For example, you can’t explore the backgrounds of everyone as you might in a traditional telling and the focus is basically on Derek and Luella (Alice in her mortal form).
But with that intense focus of just the two characters, you get very much involved with Derek and Luella’s story and I found myself shifting through their emotions of love, fear, amusement and shock right along with them.
Ordeal was a great introduction to verse and I will seek out more books written this way.
Loved: True love – I’m a sucker for it and Ordeal has it! The story almost had a magical fairy tale quality to it.
Nitpick: A story told in verse has its limitations. You don’t get the full story but I didn’t feel it was too much of a problem here.
March 7, 2013
The most obvious thing to mention about this book is that it's written entirely in verse. Same meter and rhyming throughout. In the beginning I thought it was kinda fun and it set a neat gothic tone for the novel, I thought; but soon enough it lost its charm. While I am impressed that the author was able to write the whole thing without strangling grammar/wordage too much and still maintain pretty close rhymes, it just became distracting after a while.
Maybe that's just me and my failing, but I just realized that sometimes I wasn't really sure what was going on because I couldn't help but count the syllables and make sure the rhymes rhymed. Ok, it's probably just me. I also had this obnoxious tendency to singsong the words in my head while I read excessively stressing the iambs. It was SUPER ANNOYING. I had to try really hard to stop.
So, maybe people who aren't as easily distracted by meter and rhyme were able to pay closer attention to the story. What I got out of it was a kinda contrived plot which was revealed in an interesting enough frame with very little character development (or even really character differentiation, besides Mary). While I might be tempted to read a version of the story in prose with writing I like to just see how the story actually is, I might also not be interested enough to give the story another chance.
Also, for disclosure's sake, I did get bored in the middle and stop reading it for about six months. So maybe that says something about my authority to criticize the story, but maybe it also says something about the writing.
Maybe that's just me and my failing, but I just realized that sometimes I wasn't really sure what was going on because I couldn't help but count the syllables and make sure the rhymes rhymed. Ok, it's probably just me. I also had this obnoxious tendency to singsong the words in my head while I read excessively stressing the iambs. It was SUPER ANNOYING. I had to try really hard to stop.
So, maybe people who aren't as easily distracted by meter and rhyme were able to pay closer attention to the story. What I got out of it was a kinda contrived plot which was revealed in an interesting enough frame with very little character development (or even really character differentiation, besides Mary). While I might be tempted to read a version of the story in prose with writing I like to just see how the story actually is, I might also not be interested enough to give the story another chance.
Also, for disclosure's sake, I did get bored in the middle and stop reading it for about six months. So maybe that says something about my authority to criticize the story, but maybe it also says something about the writing.
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