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Wings #2

Spells

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"I can't just storm in and proclaim my intentions. I can't 'steal' you away. I just have to wait and hope that, someday, you'll ask," Tamani said.

"And if I don't?" Laurel said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Then I guess I'll be waiting forever."


Although Laurel has come to accept her true identity as a faerie, she refuses to turn her back on her human life - and especially her boyfriend, David - to return to the faerie world.

But when she is summoned to Avalon, Laurel's feelings for the charismatic faerie sentry Tamani are undeniable. She is forced to make a choice - a choice that could break her heart.

359 pages, Hardcover

First published July 23, 2009

443 people are currently reading
16821 people want to read

About the author

Aprilynne Pike

58 books5,041 followers
Aprilynne Pike has been spinning faerie stories since she was a child with a hyper-active imagination. At the age of twenty she received her BA in Creative Writing from Lewis-Clark State College in Lewiston, Idaho. When not writing, Aprilynne can usually be found at the gym; she also enjoys singing, acting, reading, and working with pregnant moms as a childbirth educator and doula. Aprilynne currently lives with her husband and three kids in Utah, and dreams of warmer climates.

Aprilynne Pike's #1 New York Times best-selling debut, WINGS, is the first of four books about a seemingly ordinary girl with a not-so-ordinary destiny. In this tale of magic and intrigue, romance and danger, everything you thought you knew about faeries will be changed forever...

Aprilynne's Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/aprilynnepike

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,084 reviews
Profile Image for Library Lady.
118 reviews
July 23, 2010
I thought "Wings" was bad, but this just takes it to a whole new level. And it all started with the revelation that Eve-- yes, THAT Eve, mother of humankind for Christians and Jews-- was a faery. It's true. On page 102, during a scene in which Laurel is discussing her relationship with David with her faery friend, Katya, we have the following scene:

"The look on Katya's face was one of genuine concern. She shrugged. 'It's been a long time since Avalon involved itself in human affairs. I know it's necessary, sometimes. But it seems like relationships between humans and faeries always end badly.'

Laurel's head jerked back. 'Really?'

'Sure. Sanzang, Scheherazade, Guinevere. And then there was that disgraceful incident with Eve.'"

Several paragraph's later, at the end of the scene on page 103, Laural "look[s:] over at Katya, one eyebrow raised. 'Eve? Seriously?'

"Of course. Why? What do the humans say about her?'"

And that's the only information we're given. I'm sorry, you can't just change such a significant person as Eve and make her a faery without offering any explanation! Yet, that's what she does. And the book only gets worse from there. (Don't even get me started on what she does to Shakespeare!)

Honestly, the people who have given this book high ratings have either a) never read any faery books before in their lives, or b) have never read a well-written book. I didn't think it was possible for the writing to get worse, but I was wrong. There is very little interaction with the trolls-- the series bad guys-- in the book, so most of Pike's time is spent explaining her faery world and having Laurel fluctuate between David and Tamani. I thought I would stab my eyes out if I had to read yet another scene of David and Laurel making out. I mean, honestly! And the scenes where Laurel is in Avalon are also ridiculous: why not show us how the potions work with some examples of them saving lives, rather than telling us how they work? You know the whole, "show don't tell" mantra? It really works!

I thought the whole faery social structure was somewhat interesting, but ridiculous. And the scene with the warrior woman who chases after trolls was beyond stupid. Why bring her in? Hopefully, for those who continue with the series, she'll be explained a bit more.

Her explanation of faery language and it's connection to English was laughable. Do your research woman! There are faeries or fae-like creatures in nearly every culture of the world, so it stands to reason that faeries would know nearly every language in those cultures in which they feature. Granted, the majority of what we know and think of about faeries is Western European, but there are African faery-like creatures, as well as Asian. Also, why Gaelic? Why bring in Irish mythology at all? And why not tell me what the Unseelie Court means in your world? I highly doubt that all of her readers even know what that is, or why its so significant to faery mythology in general.

This was overwrought, boring and insipid. There are much better books out there with much better mythologies. I honestly think Pike just sat down and started writing without planing out her mythology at all. You would think with such stellar examples as Tolkien and Rowling, one would know that if you're going to invent a whole new mythology, you should work out as many kinks as you can. And if you're going to reinvent famous people, at least do your reader the courtesy of a thorough and clear explanation!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Roohdaar.
165 reviews1,943 followers
June 20, 2012
I picked up this book simply because I wanted to know what happened to these Mary Sues. I had no interest in the plot. I had no interest in the story itself. And because I would enjoy a good laugh.

I didn't.

This was so bad that it didn't even let me laugh at its stupidity. It was that stupid.

First of all, Pike's writing is exactly like Meyer's. They both describe the most irrelevant things. They both have an adjective for every noun on each freaking page. It bothers me to complete death.

Second, the main character, Laurel, toys with these boys' hearts all along. One time she's with David, and then comes back to her faerie world to be with Tamani. She claims she's "just friends" with him when they clearly HOLD HANDS and have so much sexual tension. It's so stupid. She's just like Bella. She's a moron who doesn't know what the hell she wants. Idiots...

Can I just give up on books now? Lol, just kidding.
Profile Image for Heidi.
160 reviews
December 21, 2010
What a way to leave a girl hanging. Aprilynne Pike has now mastered the cliff hanger ending, right down to the last paragraph! Man, now how do I possibly wait until 2011 for Illusions?

This was a great novel from Aprilynne Pike. I really enjoyed the building of characters and the glimpse into the life of Laurel before she was "human". The world of faerie according to Aprilynne is fascinating, and she really gets me thinking about how Laurel's character might change the faerie world some day.

Now, I really like David. He is an acceptional teenage human boy, who truely loves Laurel. But, in all human and other creature relationships, its not going to be perfect forever. Laurel is not going to age for sometime and it will start to be noticeable as David does. She is going to stay a faerie and David will age. I like their relationship but I am a bigger fan of Tamani and Laurel. Who wouldn't be? Tamani has made sacrifices all his life for his true love, even when she can't remember how it used to be. Tamani would never give up on her no matter what, even when he knows how Laurel feels about David. David was willing to serender, but Tamani will never falter. I think Laurel is just afraid of giving into her Faerie life, truthfully.


"Tell me," he said, his voice sharp and demanding. "Tell me David is all you need or want in your life." His face was close to her, his soft breath caressing her face. "That you never think of me when you're kissing him. That you don't dream about me the way I dream about you. Tell me you don't love me. "-Tamani

My heart melted like a popsicle, when I read this. What true love it must be to have the passion he does.

I like the excitement that this book held, the twists and the drama. I am excited to find out who and what Klea's character will hold.

I'm just excited for the continuation of this series....

"You ready for this?" Shar asked.
"Yeah," Tamani said, a grin spreading across his face, "Oh, yeah."

Profile Image for Amelia.
177 reviews47 followers
July 19, 2018
It is funny, the last time I read this book I rated it 4 stars and never finished the series.

Well, I am now determined to finish it, with only 2 books left to read.
Profile Image for Lissa.
Author 21 books186 followers
Read
April 16, 2012
Hi.

My name is Laurel and I’m the most perfect creature to ever walk the earth. That’s because I’m a faerie, and every autumn a beautiful flower grows out of my back. That makes me special, because I’m not human. But when I go and live with the faeries, I’m not faerie either, because I was adopted by humans. So I can lord around the intricately built faerie culture and tell them how stupid their caste system is, and break all the rules with no repercussions. Because did I mention I’m special?

I also cry at everything. I cry when people are nice to me (because that NEVER happens), I cry when people are angry at me, I cry when I’m talking to someone and I cry when I can’t do something right. I’m a big fat crybaby. But it’s okay, because even though I’m a plant, I do still have tear ducts. But they probably don’t cry saltwater, because saltwater is icky on my plant pores and saps my strength.

Anyway, I’ve just spent my summer at the faerie Academy, where of course I couldn’t do anything right for no specified reason. It makes me cry! I’m probably too human, but that’s okay, because I’m really a faerie, remember. Faeries are totally awesome because despite being plants they are graceful and in school everyone pays attention all the time and no one gets laughed at when they fail. Did I mention faeries are totally superior to humans? Because they are.

Anyway I went to the Academy to learn how to protect my adopted family from the trolls that are bound to attack me because I’m just that special. But even though I learnt a lot and then some other irrelevant stuff happened, al that I really remember is dating two boys – one a human and the other the hottest fairy EVER OMG did I mention I have two boyfriends? I should cry about this.

In the end, I didn’t even manage to protect my loved ones and needed rescuing AGAIN! Sigh. What’s a perfect flower girl to do? Maybe I’ll go off and cry for a bit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for mary.
302 reviews
February 12, 2017
Το δεύτερο λοιπόν βιβλίο αυτής της τετραλογίας μου άρεσε πάρα πολύ!Ήμουν στην αρχή κάπως επιφυλακτική γιατί ξεκίνησε βαρετά αλλά συνεχίζοντας βυθίστηκα στις σελίδες του.Μου αρέσε γενικά αυτό το βιβλίο κυρίως επειδή το βρήκα πρωτότυπο μιας και δεν έχω διαβάσει άλλες ιστορίες με νεράιδες και επίσης βρήκα υπέροχο το πως η συγγραφέας συνέδεσε τον νεραιδόκοσμο της με την ιστορία του Κάμελοτ.Ανυπομονώ για τα δύο επόμενα και ελπίζω να τα έχουμε σύντομα στα ελληνικά!
Profile Image for Lyndsey O'Halloran.
432 reviews65 followers
July 12, 2010
In the sequel to Wings, a year has passed for Laurel who found out that she was a faerie. Although she completely accepts who and what she is, she refuses to turn her back on the life that she has always known, her life with human parents and friends. This is causing a few problems in Avalon as Laurel really needs to learn what it means to be a real faerie and Tamani begins to show his true feelings.

After spending the whole summer relearning her magic in Avalon, Laurel knows she cannot hide her feelings for Tamani but actually choosing between him and David could mean losing one of them for good. Laurel also knew that the troll problem wasn't completely gone but she thought that she and David were being protected. Her magic hasn't been going very well so far but it could save both the human and faerie world if she can finally get something right.
As I said in my review of Wings, I couldn't wait to start on this book and I ended up reading it in one sitting. The story was both interesting and exciting at different times which was helped by the mix of settings throughout. I really liked the fact that the book is pretty much split in two. The first half seems to be more about knowledge and explanations while the second half is all about adventure and excitement. I know this could seem like there is just a slow build up but there was enough going on for me to stay interested.

With Laurel heading off to Avalon for the summer, we get to find out a lot more about her relationship with Tamani and what happened between them before they erased Laurel's memory. I loved hearing about their past, meeting Tamani's family which gave me a bigger insight into his character and also what the other faeries thought about the relationship. I was hoping for some of this in Wings but I'm glad it was saved for this book as it was possible for certain things to be explored more thoroughly. The time in Avalon was lovely to read about as Pike's descriptions were magical in themselves. I truly felt like I was walking through the different areas and could understand the faerie hierarchy better because of this.
It is stated in Wings that Laurel was sent to live with humans for a reason but it is never specified and the same goes for this book. It's obvious that she is a whole lot more important than anyone is letting on which is easily seen by how others act around her or look at her when she is in Avalon. I'm hoping that this part of the story is cleared up in book 3 instead of making readers wait until the very last instalment to find out what is really going on.

In both Wings and Spells, I felt that the chemistry between Laurel and David was lacking but this wasn't the case with her and Tamani. While Laurel is unsure about who she should be with, it is clear to me that she is extremely drawn to Tamani and nothing seems to get rid of the feelings she has for him. The small amount of time that they actually spend together proves that there is so much chemistry and could be passion between the two. I'm personally routing for Tamani to get the girl.
The very last chapter sees Laurel finally making a choice between David and Tamani and for me, the most exciting in the whole book. The way the story was left made me want more immediately because I am dying to know what happens next. Just when I though things were finalised, the very last paragraph changed everything. Luckily, there are going to be a total of 4 books in this series and I know I will be buying #3 as soon as it is released.

All of the main characters really come into their own in Spells. I hate to see characters left with hardly any development but everyone changed enough to convince me that they were real, with the events of both books taking a toll on their lives. It seems as though every little thing was taken into account when writing these characters, not leaving any stone unturned when it came to what they were feeling about everything.
Not only does this book explore the relationships between Laurel, David and Tamani but also her relationship with her parents. I felt like these parts of the book were written so well that I could believe in what was going on. Laurel's mother and father have different views on their daughter being a faerie and I can see both of their reasons being realistic. It would be only natural to act differently, in both good and bad ways, towards someone you have known for years when they suddenly change.

I loved Wings but I loved Spells even more. There was enough of different aspects in the story to keep it entertaining with a mixture of paces and it made me feel for the characters so much more than the first book. I'm dying to know when book 3 is going to be released. It will be one of my most highly anticipated releases.

Profile Image for Ashley Lavering.
Author 10 books125 followers
May 20, 2010
I liked this book because we saw more of Tamani and Avalon. What I didn't like was how Laural handled Tam. lol. I agree with Shar that she has been unfair to Tam. I am so Team Tam. I like david ok, but I love Tam. I really hope that this works out. Now I have to wait to see what Tam is planning and hope he doesn't get killed...ugh. I'm looking forward for the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sarahdactyl ♥.
687 reviews277 followers
September 18, 2011

♥ Find my reviews on Blogger ~ Reviews by Bookish Sarah

- - -

Okay, seriously, just pack my suitcases right now. I am moving to Avalon!

Spells begins a number of months after the events of Wings. The time has come for Laurel to depart from her "normal" life to the academy in Avalon, where she will be taught what it means to be a Fall faerie.

Laurel struggles with learning all of the things she missed and has forgotten while "posing" as a human. She isn't sure what to make of just about any of her peers at the academy. Some seemed to have missed her, others seem to wish she wouldn't have come back, while others seem to be indifferent altogether. She also learns that in faerie hierarchy, Spring fae like her friend/more than friend Tamani are treated as no more than servants - and she does not like standing by quietly while it happens.

While Laurel is in Avalon, she and Tamani grow closer than ever and when it's time to go back home to David, she becomes confused. I have to say that I hated Laurel at some parts in this book. She treats Tamani pretty badly and I just wanted to reach my foot into the book and give her a swift kick in the derrière. As far as the love triangle goes, I truly hope she ends up with Tamani. David is nice and all, but his character is boring and doesn't have much development. :(

After trying to balance her two worlds, human and faerie; Laurel fails miserably. After lying to both David and Tamani, she just may end up losing it all.

Then... all the while Laurel is having problems with her love life and trying to hone her Fall abilities, the trolls are causing trouble again. BIG TROUBLE. A couple new plot twists are introduced in this book as well. It should make for an interesting third installment!

- - -

The pace of this book was nice. A little slow to start, but not really a big deal for me. I knew the goods were coming! I feel like I am the minority here, but I enjoyed this book oodles more than Wings! Spells just had so much magic... and being able to follow Laurel and Tamani around Avalon was my favorite part. Pike painted a magnificent picture! Amazing imagery. I honestly could read about Avalon all day. ^-^ For me, this was a wonderful follow-up and I am planning to read Illusions sometime in the next week.
Profile Image for Arooj .
544 reviews327 followers
July 8, 2012
Why can't I stop screaming and crying?!
Why?
WHY?!?

Oh, I know. BECAUSE OF TAMANI.

The Good
- I loved Avalon! It was amazing. I love it when faerie books actually take place in their faerie land. I've read many versions of it but the Avalon in this book was very creative. I also learned a lot about the faerie hierarchy. I never read a book before where there were ranks between the different faerie types.

- So much more romantic tension! It was so damn frustrating! I mean, I loved it and everything, but GAH. As cheesy as it sounds, for Laurel it's not just about choosing the right guy. It's also about which world she chooses to belong to since she can't have both. She can't just pick one guy and live in the other guys world. This is one of those love triangles that make me want to scream. I really, REALLY want Laurel to be with Tamani but...ugh, it's too complicated. I don't even want to think about it anymore. I have no clue what will happen to these three but I just hope it's something good. Because I am very close to just jumping in the story and handcuffing Tamani and Laurel together.

The Bad
- N/A

The In-Betweens
- Like the first book, I found a majority of it a bit slow paced. But it wasn't a big issue.

The Characters
- I'm really proud of Laurel for making such tough, but sensible, decisions. Yeah, she did lie sometimes, which I didn't think was a good idea, but she had good intentions. I think she should've been a little easier on Tamani, but that's mostly my fangirl side speaking.

- I really don't get David. Sometimes he's the typical science nerd, other times a total romantic who sets up picnics for his girlfriend. Once I even thought that maybe he was under the influence of the trolls to get Laurel into a trap. But I guess David is just an unpredictable character, which I like.

- And now, Tamani. My lovely Tamani. WHY MUST HE HAVE TO GO THROUGH SO MUCH?! It's not fair! Let the guy have a break! I was so mad at Laurel for what she did to him at the end. And from what Tamani said at the ending, I have a weird feeling for what he's about to do. I just...I wanna...hug him. And never let go. Come here, Tamani. *holds out arms*

Recommended?
- I think this book was better than the first one, so yes, I recommend you continue on the series with this book. You learn a lot more about the faeries, their rules and their world.

Off to Illusions I go! =D
Profile Image for Veronica Alvarez.
337 reviews20 followers
January 25, 2021
3.75
I really liked it, there's a couple of things that didn't convence me (characters) but after all yeah I really enjoyed it, but I must say that the story and the world are my favorite part
Profile Image for Andye.Reads.
961 reviews977 followers
May 11, 2010
Ugh! I hate doing negative reviews! Sometimes I don't even know if I should write them or not because I just feel so bad for the author. I've Tweeted with Aprilynn a couple of times, and I think she's such a sweet person, so that makes this even harder.....however......I was really disappointed with this book. There, I said it.

Even though I thought Wings was a little strange (it just sounds weird that the Faeries are plants and they keep talking about Laurel's blossom), I did actually enjoy it. So, I was looking forward to this book coming out. I even went to Borders and bought it on release day...without a coupon (lesson learned). The beginning was ok. I was halfway through the book before much time had passed, and I was semi-enjoying it, and waiting for the excitement that was bound to happen at any moment, but I just kept waiting. Seriously, other than a couple of minor run-ins with the same enemies as in Wings.....nothing happened. I thought this book was going to be about Laurel and Tamani, but even when Laurel was in Avalon (which wasn't that much) Tamani was barely there. And when she was home, all she did was work on trying to make potions and lay around with David. At the end of this book, I felt like all the characters were in exactly the same place that they were in at the end of the first book. The only difference was that Laurel got some Faerie schooling (and so did we because there was a lot of descriptions of plants and their magical worth), and meets a suspicious character that I'm assuming we'll find out more about in the next book.

All in all, I would say this book was ok, but definitely not worth buying. If you're bored with nothing else to do, go to the library and read it. If you have other books you want to read, skip this one and just head straight for book 3 when it comes out. Shoot me an email and I'll give you a summary :) I'll still be reading book 3 because I did like Wings and I want to know how it ends, but I think this series would've been better without this book, or at least just adding some of its main points to the other books.

Sorry Aprilynne! Really!
Profile Image for Laura.
151 reviews60 followers
February 17, 2011
Okay, so if you've read my review on the first book "wings" you would've never read this book. It is so stupid I can't even beleive I read it.
Okay, so Laurel is so hard done by because she is soooooo "special" and she's the best fairy and all of that crap. Okay, now what? Again, with that boy/boy/girl realtionship, or the two-guys-one-girl thing, it just makes the whole book twice as stupid (can't swear that bad on this thing
Okay, so next thing. Laurel is such a complainer, and a whiner I just want to smack some sense into her. OKAY YOU HAVE TWO GUYS GOING AFETR YOU, YOU ARE THE BEST FAIRY, YOU HAVE A GREAT FAMILY AND LIFE, AND ALL YOU CAN THINK ABOUT IS HOW YOU CAN'T CHOOSE BETWEEN TWO GUYS, OR YOU CAN'T MAKE A FREAKEAN POTION? Get a grip. Seriously.
Laurel should seriously learn some common sense, and maybe learn something to halp that so called brain of hers. I mean seriously, YOU ARE SO STUPID! GET A LIFE AND MAYBE YOU MIGHT DESERVE THE TWO GUYS THAT ARE TOTALLY HOT AND OBVIOUSLY LOVE YOU.
Okay, for now I have to calm down about Laurel. But just this last thing about something that made me never want to read the next book. The last sentance is probably the worst last sentance I have ever read.
For all of you wondering, Timpani end it by saying...."Oh yeah"
..........................ARE YOU KIDDING ME? That's the best thing the author could come up with> What was she thinking? Dear Aprilynne Pike, please, please kill someone off, or at least make Laurel smarter. Please.
Profile Image for Karyn.
208 reviews3 followers
May 9, 2010
I'm...perplexed. I loved the writing and the story. The innocence and likability of the characters continues in this novel. Why I give this three stars is the ending. I am confused and completely disagree with Laurel's choices. She is a faerie and is trying to be something else. Great scene when Tamani finally confronts her about stringing him along. Really? What is she thinking? She will live to be over 200 hundred years old and will barely age. David will age and die while watching her stay the same. Also, she will always have to hide what she is and what she loves. I liked her more when she was in Avalon with Tamani.

Summary - Which I will definitely need since Pike publishes a story per year
The story opens with Laurel have been requested to attend Academy in Avalon since her skills are so lacking. Tamani takes her through the gate, but has to stay since that is his station. Jamison, Winter Fae who is of the upperclass elite, takes her to the academy. Once there, everyone knows her while she doesn't have a single memory of them (her memory was erased so that she could blend in the human world). Laurel's head professor forces her spend a week reading herbology basics. When she gets a break, Tamani takes her throughout Avalon. First, we notice that Tamani cannot embrace her but has to bow. This is where Pike introduces her societal structure of Fae classes. Spring Fae are the working class who take care of the other classes. The are truly at the bottom of the food chain and supposedly don't mind. Next, they go into the Summer Market. The Summer Fae are the entertainers who are flashy. They make baubles for Fall and Winter fae who do not have to pay for anything. Tamani then takes her to his side of town and his family home. We meet his mother, Rhoslyn, and niece, Rowan. Rhoslyn was a kind of faerie midwife taking care of the saplings who are the young of Avalon. At this point, Laurel learns that she has parents but the records were burned. Fall Fae are not allowed to stay with the other Fae, they attend academy. Laurel is fed up with the class structure and wants to walk with Tamani and be his equal. He is fine with how things are. He also tells her that he cannot choose to be with her because of his station. She must choose to be his. He plans on waiting forever for her. THIS MADE ME WANT TO SCREAM!

Laurel continues her studies. Two characters at school may become more important later. Katya is Laurel's tutor and seems to be your average friendly character. She definitely buys into the class structure. Mara was Laurel's BFF before she left Avalon. They were close and Laurel was chosen over her to become the Changeling, faerie in human world. During their final visit together, Tamani takes Laurel to a tree made of passed fae. His father was one of the fae who decided to pass his conscience onto the tree by grafting himself onto the tree. A fae is supposed to sit under the tree and ask a question. The wind is then brings the answer. He has asked a question and received and answer, but we do not know either. Her summer ends quickly with Jamison walking her out,giving her a Fall Fae care package, and telling her that she needs to come back. Tamani walks her to her house and David is there waiting for her.

Back in the land of humans, the story just continues with a few exceptions. She and David seem to be more physical, Chelsea is seriously dating a guy named Ryan, Laurel's dad has completely accepted her while her mother has distanced herself from Laurel. Laurel blooms again which heats things up with David, but he is a gentleman. They decide to double with Chelsea and Ryan and go to a party. A troll is outisde and chases them off the road on their way home. During the fight Laurel's petals are torn which hurts her. A woman named Kae saves them and she is some type of human supernatural hunter. Laurel does not trust her and I have to agree. Kae is too eager and David is definitely too eager when he accepts guns from her.

Laurel goes back to her cottage to clean and tell Tamani what has happened. He helps her and is really upset about her blossom. He wanted to see it in its full gory especially since he missed it the previous year. Their closeness increases and it just feels right although David is perfect. A little too perfect. Things progress back home when Laurel receives an invitation to the New Year's Festival. She decides not to tell David about and sneaks off. Tamani is her escort and again the class thing comes into play. We also learn that there are only three winter Fae, the Queen, Yasmine, and Jamison. Tamani and Laurel have great time and Tamani kisses her. She stalks off and this is when he confronts her about her feelings and knows that she does love him. Laurel feels bad for stringing him along and decides that she has to cut him off. Just when they reach the house David is there and sees them kiss. She sends Tamani away and David leaves her alone.

When at home, a ransom note for Chelsea on a rock smashes through Laurel's window. She runs and gets David and they go to the lighthouse to get her. During the battle, Laurel takes out four trolls when Barnes aims guns at Chelsea and David. Laurel surrenders when Kae saves the day again and kills Barnes. He says "You? But..." This makes me think that she knows him. They all head back and Kae makes another plea for Laurel to trust her. Chelsea also admits that she knows that Laurel is a faerie which makes Laurel ecstatic. Laurel takes everyone home and then tells David that she has chosen a life with him over Tamani and that she is going to tell him so. This makes David forgive her.

In the end, Laurel goes back to the house to discover the Tamani asked for another assignment after Laurel sent him away. Shar also gets her to open up about what happened with Barnes and chastises her for her treatment of Tamani. She skulks off back to her life. Tamani steps out from behind a tree and this whole thing seems to be some sort of plan. His duty is to protect Laurel, but I can't tell if there is more to this. It seems as though he will be following her to protect her.

Questions and Predictions
- Kae is in league with the trolls and Jamison. I think he believes he should be King and plans to give up Avalon to get the crown.
- Laurel is more than just a Fall Fae. The way the other Fae look at her says more.
- Something happened before she became a changeling. Why can't they give her her memory back?
- The ending makes me suspicious of Tamani. Is he playing with her?

Good book until the ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Lex’s Library.
457 reviews46 followers
April 12, 2022
[REVIEW]

DISCLAIMER: When writing a negative review, it’s never my intention to sound like I don’t think ANYONE should read a book I rated one or two stars. If I told you not to, I might be taking away your chance from discovering your newest favorite book. Therefore, please don’t let my review TOTALLY discourage you from reading Spells. As I mentioned in the first disclaimer, this is collection of my thoughts and opinions on the book. This is me saying, “I didn’t like Spells and here’s why.” I’m not saying, “I didn’t like Spells, and here’s why you shouldn’t like it/read it.”

(I am aware some people need to see others’ thoughts and opinions to help them to decide whether or not to buy/read a book. If this review does help you, and that’s what you needed, that’s fine! However, don’t just take my word for it. Look at what others are saying, and decide from there.)

*Trigger/content warnings in this book for an abduction, a non-consensual kiss, and violence*

I really wanted to like Spells. For one, I’d hoped it would be better than the first book, Wings, which I’d rated two stars. For another, so many other readers seem to enjoy this series, and I wanted to see why. I’m worried I’m going to get hate for this review, but please know this is not a personal attack on you. You’re allowed to like this book and series!

On to the review...

MY CRITIQUES:

•Much like the first book, not a lot happened in Spells. None of scenes felt liked they flowed nicely together, so I was either bored or confused while reading it. There were a lot of scenes I wished had been fleshed out more, especially ones with the trolls. And the scenes between Laurel and her mom. Those scenes had SO MUCH potential.

•The characters were also not as fleshed out. One example is Klea. I REALLY wanted to get to know more about Klea. I wanted to find reasons to be suspicious of her as Laurel was. I’m fine with her being good, but I would’ve wanted more scenes where Laurel noticed her doing or saying something that looked shady. That way, when Klea came to the rescue, it would’ve been even MORE of a surprise. Instead, we got two scenes with Klea, Laurel just realizes she‘s not a bad guy, and then she just rolled with it. No more questions asked.

•There was also a minor character that I thought could’ve been developed so much more! Near the beginning of the book, there was a faerie at the school in Avalon who hated Laurel (I can’t remember her name, and I don’t care enough to go back and find out). We learn later they actually used to be best friends before Laurel was sent to live in the human world. I thought it would’ve been fascinating to watch them learn to trust each other—or begrudgingly have to join forces to defeat the trolls.

Unfortunately, all we got was a few scenes with her giving Laurel a death glare. You know, because girl-on-girl hate is just the best...

•The writing ALSO got on my nerves. There were a lot of unnecessary adverbs, and I kept thinking, “SHOW, DON’T TELL!!!” That’s especially important in a fantasy story, but there was none of that here (nor was there in the first book).

•The love triangle...

Okay, I’ll just get this out of the way—I’m in the minority who’s Team David. He’s such a sweetheart! For one, I love that his he accepts Laurel for who she is. And since him being human makes him more prone to death, or at least more severe injuries than Laurel, you gotta admire the guy for always being there for her. He seriously deserves all the good things in the world.

As for Tamani...*sigh* I understand he’s been watching over Laurel her entire life. I understand that it hurts him to keep his distance from her, and to watch her fall in love with someone else. However, the romance between him and Laurel felt too rushed in Wings, and I still didn’t believe in their chemistry in this book. Seriously, WHY were they so drawn to each other? Sure, we got a few scenes where we learned more about Tamani’s backstory, as well as scenes of him and Laurel going to events together. But I still couldn’t understand WHY Laurel and Tamani liked each other. Had Laurel done something kind for Tamani when they were children? Was Tamani...something other than hot to Laurel? If we’d gotten more of that, I would’ve understood why it was hard for Laurel and Tamani to want to be together, but couldn’t because she was a Fall fairy and he was a Spring fairy. But I never found myself rooting for them. ESPECIALLY after he kissed her without her consent...

•That’s right, folks. There’s an entire scene where Tamani blows up at Laurel for still being with David. It would make perfect sense if he was frustrated with her constantly going back and forth between him and David. But instead, Tamani gets frustrated that Laurel will not own up to her feelings and say it’s HIM she wants. And right after that explosion, Tamani FORCIBLY kisses her...in front of David.

I’m sorry, but that would NEVER make me even more conflicted in a love triangle. If anything, it’d help me figure out the love triangle VERY quickly. Tamani would be out of my life in no time.

FINAL THOUGHTS:

There was a cliffhanger at the end of Spells, but as soon I finished this, I didn’t have any urgency to pick up the next book. All in all, I was bored, annoyed, and some points angry while reading Spells.

So will I read the next book, Illusions? I’m honestly not sure. I think I’ll put it off for a while before deciding whether or not to continue this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sandra Deaconu.
794 reviews129 followers
July 1, 2020
La fel de puerilă și slabă ca prima parte, dar tot mă relaxează. Iar Tamani, unul dintre cei doi băieți de care e ușuratica îndrăgostită, este adorabil.

,,Valoarea pe care o dai tu lucrurilor este singura valoare pe care o au."
Profile Image for Brianna.
97 reviews2 followers
June 13, 2010
Well, to be quite honest, I didn't care for this book. The first in the series was much more interesting, maybe because stuff actually happened, but this one just fell flat.

1) Like I said, pretty much nothing happened. Barnes popped up again and that's pretty much the only exciting thing that happened in this book.

2) Too much time was spent on the stupid love triangle.

3)I can't stand David, he's just so annoying... No one is actually that perfect. He's like the Edward of Wings. Actually, he's not even perfect, Laurel just makes him seem that way. David is so contradictory. He'll act like this really nice and sweet (annoyingly so) guy and then the next he'll be like "Oh, I'm so cool because I have a gun!"

4) Well, Laurel gets her OWN little number for me to rant about. Laurel is the most selfish, sniveling little brat of a character EVER. She's flat, completely and utterly flat. I can't understand what sort of character she's supposed to be, she acts like a snarky brat sometimes and other times she acts like a needy brat. She should at least be something, but nooooo... All she ever does is whine about her crappy love life. Two quotes of Laurel that bug me very much:
"... Her two worlds, two lives that she tried so hard to keep separate, were crashing together." WOW. Laurel, maybe you should just choose and STOP FREAKING COMPLAINING. Quote number two... "She closed the fridge and let herself blame David and Tamani a little. She didn't want to hurt either of them, she wanted them both to be happy. They were both important in her life. Why did keep insisting that she choose between them?" Oh, gee, Laurel, I WONDER. (My poor caps lock key...) I just don't understand how anyone can be so idiotic and self centered that they'd string them both along because she can't seem to make up her mind. Good gracious.

5) It never explained in the book how Chelsea knew about Laurel. I don't understand why Ms. Pike couldn't wait until the next book to introduce that little piece of the story. I feel like that was one of the things the author crammed in at the end to make the book seem like it had some sort of plot.

And those are my issues with the book.

The only thing I liked in this book was Tam. And if at the end of the book he didn't pull away from Laurel, I would have lost my respect for him. So kudos to him.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Holli.
155 reviews
October 2, 2011
My lungs are cramping, my heart is bleeding, and I think I shall faint from despair! Why oh why, Laurel!? Go away, Tam? GO AWAY TAM!? The horror!!!!! (Throwing pillows on the floor, stomping up and down, throwing fists into the air) *Tear* This is a heartbreaking, agonizing, horrible travesty! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH ahghieahgnivjbhjeirhjifhhguehaioehio ARGH!!!!! I don't think I'm going to get to sleep tonight. *Sigh* Aprilynne, ... YOU MUST FIX THIS IN ILLUSIONS! YOU MUST, YOU MUST, YOU MUST I SAY! ;)

Okay, now that you have witnessed my total loss of mental sanity, ... you can see how incredible this series is. I am totally emotionally invested. Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go hire a shrink. :)


FIVE STARS!
Profile Image for Sandra.
412 reviews51 followers
March 15, 2012
These books are fairly quick reads, yet this one took me ages. I often couldn't be bothered to pick it up, because I feel the story lacked a lot of polishing. The idea of Avalon is nice, but if you support its claims of awesomeness by putting down A Midsummer Night's Dream, Camelot, and even Eve, all without any sufficient explanation, you get me very annoyed. There are tidbits of a background, that are not built on at all and destroys the source material it so hard tries to work with.

Also Lauren. It takes you two books before you think it's unfair to play two guys? I mean, really? Let's hope you get yourself back on track in the next book, and hopefully that will have some more development and background story.
Profile Image for Starry.
464 reviews
February 6, 2011
Laurel and David make out. A lot. Honestly, it felt like every few pages Laurel and David were making out, and it got pretty nauseating after awhile. I liked David just fine after reading "Wings," but after "Spells," I don't know how anyone could be Team David. All of the Laurel/David chemistry from "Wings" vanished, so every time they spewed lovey words and kissed, it felt really strange and forced. I like a good romance as much as the next girl, but I was SO tired of the make out sessions by the end of the book. I have hope that making David annoying in this book is all part of a big plan to eventually bring Laurel and Tamani together. I don't know how ANYONE could be cheering for David at this point.

And poor Tamani. Laurel's treatment of him was completely appalling. She toyed with him and strung him along to the point where I really couldn't stand her by the end. Let's hope Laurel was acting like this so we can see the process of her maturing and growing as a character in later books. Go Shar for finally putting Laurel in her place regarding her deplorable treatment of Tamani. Poor Tamani seemed a little defeated for a lot of the book, as he wasn't quite as confident and flirtatious as he is in "Wings." Pining for Laurel is just sucking the soul out of his character. Let's hope he comes back as his charismatic, charming self in Book 3 because I'm weary of selfish Laurel using him and bringing him down!


the faerie realm from which heroine Laurel was sent years ago to live among humans. This is good for two reasons: first, it lets Pike flex her ample imagination with some serious world-building. From the flashy spun-sugar bubbles and bejewelled marketplace of the Summer fae to the simple gourd homes of the spring folk, this faerie world is gorgeous and beautifully described. It's one of the best things about the book. Pike also develops atmosphere through Tamani's anecdotes and lessons, using faerie vernacular and explaining customs to help readers learn about Avalon along with Laurel.

Profile Image for J.
349 reviews2 followers
February 8, 2010
I NEVER thought a book would infuriate me more than Twilight (Eclipse specifically) in regards to the whole love triangle thing. No.... Spells did. Luckily the swift kick in the pants was delivered and sweet as anything. LOL
Oh, such, beautiful, beautiful elegant writing. Delightful, fantasy descriptions. I am now a little in pain for the 3rd installment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Krystle.
1,036 reviews322 followers
January 31, 2011
Here’s another crack at this series. And it was pretty much what I expected.

Laurel was so annoying in this whole indecisive I can’t choose where I want to be sort of melodrama that pervades the entire book. Worst still is this whole love triangle. She knowingly cheats on David, and he knows she goes to the fairy world to see Tamani. I don’t know about you but that does not scream healthy relationship to me. Especially when they all get up in arms about it. Woman should just pick a side and stick to it.

I mean, aspects of the fairy world were cool. How there’s a whole hierarchy concerning the type of fairy you’re born as and what type of jobs you are then regulated to, which in turn affects who you can and cannot be with in terms of relationships. The glass and potion making bits were rather interesting but I can’t get over the annoying wish-y wash-y dramatics. Laurel was particularly cruel because she’s leading Tamani on and obviously enjoys doing it and then rips his heart out later.

And David is just some blob of a guy who’s supposed to be super perfect and understanding and everything which makes him so boring. But, oh no, we have to up the ante because once he gets a gun he’s all these items are powerful weapons we need to have. And Laurel’s all omg, my boyfriend’s turning into one of those gun wielding fiends who don’t understand the feelings of others. Right. Sure. Okay, whatever you say.

Then there was the problem with the mythology. I am not really sure what it’s supposed to be. She draws upon Christian mythology, Celtic, Asian, a whole bunch of others, and that faeries speak Gaelic and all sorts of nonsense. Not to mention they have the Seelie and Unseelie courts. What? I am so lost. Perhaps she was trying to make the statement that fairies are all encompassing in their presence of world history but it just does not work. It’s not explained properly or not at all, and you’re left wondering, why is this important to know?

But the second half of the book where all the action takes place grabbed my attention and I sped through the pages. It sort of made up for the tedious first half but not so much. I always am up for a good battle resulting in blood, guts, and a vengeance for all. Yet, I can’t get over the excessive and in your face romance triangle that was really tedious to slog through.

Perhaps you’ll find it more fun than I did.
Profile Image for Princess Bookie.
960 reviews98 followers
April 12, 2010
My Thoughts: First, I want to say I have heard a lot of good and bad reviews about this series. I have heard a lot of people say they wouldn't even attempt to read it. Sucks for them! I loved it! I read Wings in a day and started Spells the next day and read it in 2 sittings. I loved them both. I did like Spells a little more though. In Spells, we are once again introduced to Laurel, her family, her friend Chelsea, her boyfriend David, her other "friend" Tamani; who is a fairy! In Wings, Laurel slowly realized she was a fairy and by Spells, she has accepted this and is trying to cope with it and lead a normal life. Of course nothing can go as planned because she has Trolls hunting her down, wanting crucial information from her. I don't want to give away the whole plot but I loved this book.This book revolves more about Laurel going to Avalon and spending time getting to learn about her heritige (being a fairy). I truly adore this series.

I started off so torn between David and Tamani. I mean, come on, David seems like a sweetheart and the kind of guy who will always be there for you. Yes, that's comforting and hot but than there is Tamani who comes off as a hunky awesome guy. You know you shouldn't like him because Laurel is already with David.But you find yourself thinking, come on Tamani, get the girl! And on top of his greatness, he's a fairy! By the time the book ended, I was rooting for Tamani and wanted Laurel and Tamani together. There was so much tension between them I had to reread a few paragraphs just so I could savor it more than once. A big grin would cross my face. Sorry David but I'm more in love with Tamani. Its been a while since I've loved a guy in a book and I'm still awwing over Tamani. Can he please be real? Pretty please! I just loved these books! They are so good!


Overall: Loved it! I'm team Tamani! I actually liked Laurel too. The kissing scene between Laurel and Tamani- HOT! I just adored Tamani's personality. The chemistry between them was so awesome. I wish book 3 was already out! The cliffhanger on the last page of Spells makes you just sit there and say, what what what? What is going to happen next???

Cover: Its cute. I like the flowers.
Profile Image for Ronda.
890 reviews185 followers
June 19, 2011
I have to admit that it took me well over a 100 pages to really get something from this 2nd book. I was bored of Avalon, the fairie land... I was bored of Laural's lessons that she had to take and quite frankly, I was bored of fairie Tam and human David!!!

However, I loved Wings, the first book and a friend encouraged me to continue through the pages.... and I am so glad I did.... I found myself wrapped in the final chapters, desperately needing to know which way Laural would turn, who was being true and who were going to turn out bad.... and I wasn't to know...

...the book has left me wondering and with a need to read Wild, the 3rd book... I found myself smiling with tears in my eyes as Laural's human family wrapped her up in understanding, but knowing that the fight to save Avalon has only just begun has left me thinking that this 2nd book turned out to be just as lovely as the first... I just wish the beginning had been a little less long winded...

I look forward to reading Wings :)
Profile Image for Sofia Lazaridou.
2,861 reviews136 followers
February 19, 2015
The second book of the wings series is even better than the first. Which sets me on high hopes for the third.

The book starts with Lauren going to Avalon for the summer to study as any other fairy does.There she learns stuff about the plants and their abilities and how to create magic potions. She learns more about the fairy world and how everything is working there. And she comes closer to Tamani. Later she leaves Avalon and goes back to her parents and David. She meets Klea (which I didn't liked at all). Close to the end an old enemy comes back and takes Chelsea for hostage. In the end of the book Lauren chooses between Tamani and David.

In the first book I liked that Lauren and David were together, but that changed in the second one. Maybe it's the fact that we see and learn more about Tamani but I can say that I like Tamani as much as I like David. The end makes me believe that Tamani will be present in many parts of the third book with or without Laurens knowledge.
Profile Image for Vee.
79 reviews
July 21, 2019
How disappointing!
Αυτό το βιβλίο ήταν μια πολύ πολύ βαρετή συνέχεια. Πολύ κρίμα γιατί το πρώτο είχε αρκετό ενδιαφέρον. Το Άβαλον και η ακαδημία πέρασαν υπερβολικά γρήγορα και πρόχειρα. Υποθέτω αυτό που αποζητούσα ήταν κάποιο δράμα μέσα στο σχολείο και πιο φανταχτερές περιγραφές αυτού του κόσμου.
Η ανθρώπινη ζωή της δε μπορούσε να είναι πιο αδιάφορη! Πραγματικά ποιος νοιάζεται για τα πικνικ και τα μαθήματα, τα πάρτι και τις βόλτες; Το ρομάντζο με τον Ντέιβιντ συνεχίζει.. να μην έχει κανένα ενδιαφέρον.
Αυτό το εργο χρειαζόταν πολύ μεγαλύτερη επένδυση στις μελέτες της Λορελ και γενικά στο Άβαλον, όπως και στη μαγεία του κόσμου και δεν εννοώ απλές παραγράφους όπου ο Ταμανι εξηγεί τα πάντα λες και τα διαβάζει από βικιπαίδεια.
Έχω στα χέρια μου το τρίτο αλλά νομίζω πως είναι καλύτερα να κάνω ένα διάλειμμα από την ανωριμότητα της Λορελ και τη βαρεμάρα του γραψιματος.
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