Jess N
It's taken me quite a while to settle down enough to write this review. If you've been following me for any length of time, you'll know that I have a lot invested in this trilogy. Pressia, Bradwell, Partridge, El Capitan and Lyda have come to feel like family to me. Their broken world a place where I felt at home. Julianna Baggott has never ceased to amaze me with how easily she weaves a story. My expectations for this final installment weren't just exceeded, they were shattered into tiny, bite sized pieces.
There is so much character growth in this story that I can't even begin to explain it all. Every person is faced with a choice. The type of life altering choice that has the power to make you, or break you. It was so completely heartbreaking watching as these young people, these characters I had come to love, were faced with so much suffering and despair. It was also beautiful in a way. Baggott shows how much strength there is inside each and every one of us.
As the final book in the trilogy, Burn had a lot to wrap up. When last we left Pressia and the others, everything was in flux. People dying, secrets being uncovered, and absolutely nothing was what it seemed. The plot moves at a manic pace, mercilessly dragging you along as everything falls to pieces. I've felt battered at the end of a book many times before. I've reached an ending, and then been unable to process anything else for at least a few hours. This book? The feeling was ten-fold. I felt so emotionally hurt that it was almost physical.
That being said, the ending is definitely not one a lot of people are going to like. Even I can fairly admit that it wasn't what I wanted. In terms of the overall trilogy though? I think it was perfect. It wasn't the ending I expected, but it was the ending that was needed. I can't express to you enough how much I'm going to miss these characters. This trilogy stole my heart, and I don't ever want it back.
In my search for a short and interesting read, I happened upon Like Clockwork on NetGalley. Of course you know that as soon as I saw the words “Steampunk” and “Romance” I was in. This is a subgenre I truly feel love for, and so I dove right in.
Now I probably should have noted at the beginning that I didn't realize the page count was so low. I'm not complaining, as I wanted a short read anyway, but that means this story has to wrap up quickly. Barbara Dee packs a punch into these 95 pages for sure. However people who are uncomfortable with inexplicably quick attractions may not be happy with the romance aspect. I, on the other hand, actually quite enjoyed the fact that there were no really messy parts. Attraction is enough for me.
At the heart of this Steampunk novel is a rather interesting story about automotons and their continued widespread use. Victoria is at the forefront of this movement, but not by choice. It was interesting to see how people so willingly accepted these humanoid lookalikes as replacements for actual humans. I don't deny what draws me to steampunk in the first place are ideas like this. Although she much build it quickly, Barbara Dee does build a nice world for the reader to be immersed in. Victorian London meets steampunk. Delicious.
Character wise, I liked Victoria and Dash equally. I enjoyed the fact that there were from two different parts of society, and yet they found so much in common. My one gripe was that in such a short book there seemed to be a lot of focus on their inner monologues. I realize it helps the reader get to know them better. However I wanted much more Victoria/Dash interaction time. Much more stolen time under the trees. That was the part of this book that really drew me in.
Honestly I rather enjoyed this read. My only gripe is that it was so short. Had it been 200 pages, I still would have read and probably enjoyed it that much more. Still, Barbara Dee has written a hidden gem that I see lovers of steampunk, and romance, thoroughly enjoying.
I finished Half-Blood about fifteen minutes ago and my heart is still beating like mad. This book, wow this book, is a roller coaster ride in it's own right. Twists, turns, smoldering attraction, it's all there in vivid black and white! When the very beginning of a story automatically takes my breath away, I know I'm in for a treat. Expect rambling beyond this sentence.
First off let me profess my love for Alex, the main character. She is strong, she is fiery, she knows what she wants and she'll be damned if she's going to let you keep her from getting it. Not afraid to break the rules, Alex is a rebel and driven by her need for revenge. Despite everything else in her life, including what she could become, she keeps fighting forward towards her ultimate goal. However she's not all big and bad. There are parts of her that come through that are sensitive and struggling. It is this very real personality that brought her to life and made me one hundred percent behind her the entire time.
Then there's Aiden. I'll admit that he stole my heart. This boy is stubborn and strong, but also sensitive in the best way possible. Of course, it doesn't hurt that he's easy on the eyes as well. There are moments between Aiden and Alex that just ooze tension, and then others that are so sweet that they will melt your heart. Add in an expressly forbidden romance, and you have a recipe for a fantastic story. What I really really enjoyed about Half-Blood though is that the romance doesn't steal the story line. It's there, it's charged, and there is even another smoldering hot boy who comes into the picture. Still, not once does a heart-wrenching love triangle fully develop. At least not yet. Perhaps it will come in the next installment, but for now I'm very happy with the fact that Alex gets to be her butt-kicking self, without falling into the love triangle trap.
As I mentioned above, the plot itself drives forward like a performance car! (Terrible similie I know.) I'm completely serious though. Interspersed between calm, loving, moments of reflection and growth are intense fight scenes and twists that will make your head spin. There was more than one time while reading that I literally yelled out “What are you DOING?” to the dismay of my napping boyfriend. Half-Blood is a book that drew me so far in, made me feel so much for the characters, that I felt I would be doing them a disservice if I didn't read ravenously to the end.
I'll stop rambling now. This book is fantastic. If you are in the market for a story with a butt-kicking heroine and a strong (gorgeous) male character, this is for you. Half-Blood took my breath away. I wait eagerly for more of Alex's story!
One of the things that initially drew me to The Goddess Test was the incorporation of Greek Mythology. I fully admit that I am a mythology nerd in all senses of the term. There is nothing that makes me happier than diving into stories about Persephone, Demeter and all the other fascinating Gods and Goddesses. That being said, I really adored how Aimee Carter wove this fascinating topic into an even more intriguing new story! The Goddess Test is everything a good read should be. Fast paced, full of intrigue and deception, and of course a little bit of love.
Kate comes onto the scene a broken shell. Her mother is dying, and she's not sure what she is going to do with herself when the inevitable finally comes. To be honest, Kate was tough for me to love at first. I understood her need to have her mother in her life, but I kept hoping that she'd see the good that comes with moving on alone. A new life, a new start. Her attitude bordered on depressing sometimes, and I really wanted her to see something positive about her situation.
However as the book progresses, Kate definitely does change. It's like a metamorphosis actually. One minute she is a shy, quiet, and lost girl. The next she meets Henry and everything changes for her. The Kate that develops is bold, brave, and full of life. I loved her so much. I won't reveal how this all comes about, or what happens afterwards, but I will say that if you feel the way I did at the beginning just make sure to read on. It gets so much more amazing.
Story wise, I couldn't have been happier with the way that Aimee Carter wove Greek Mythology into Kate's story. Henry was dark and mysterious, and each twist brought about a new aspect for me to fall in love with. The tie in of the story of Persephone definitely gives this book an added element. Watching Kate struggle to let go of her mother, learn to love herself, and try to help Henry, made for a fantastic read. I devoured the book from beginning to end and then lamented the fact that there was no more left to read.
In all honesty, The Goddess Test far surpassed my initial hopes for it. The story line, characters, and setting, all mesh into a wonderfully immersing read. I, for one, eagerly await the second installment in Kate's story. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
When I first set out to read Saving June, I wasn't at the best place in my life. So I shelved it for a bit and waited until I felt more able to tackle the sad content in this book. I picked it back up a few days ago, and instantly fell in love. Hannah Harrington has built a set of characters who are easy to love, and also who are extremely realistic. While Saving June isn't the happiest of stories, it definitely is true to life.
Harper Scott is a character that a lot of people will easily connect with. She is the younger sister, and therefore feels a lot of times like she's in her sister's shadow. For Harper, life is all about being nothing like her older sister. The rebel of the family. However it is when June takes her own life that things really come into focus. I won't ruin anything for you, but what follows is a road trip of the most poignant kind. Harper learns what it means to be a sister, what it means to be an individual, and how sometimes life is just worth living.
What I loved most about Harper is how realistically she deals with her sister's death. She shows blatant and misplaced anger. She exhibits the feelings of depression. She curses June and wonders why she left her behind. Harper goes through everything that a normal, mourning person would and it is beautifully done. This isn't a story about a person who commits suicide, this is a story about the people that they leave behind. By the time I was a few chapters in, I was rooting for Harper. I just wanted everything to be okay again for her.
What I didn't like so much was some of the side stories that mingle in with Harper's journey. Again, no spoilers, but Harper's best friend finds a problem of her own on their trip and I felt like it kind of took away the spotlight from June and Harper. I also wasn't sure about the romance aspect. Jake, for me, was just kind of there. An available love interest. I don't necessarily think it took away from Harper's story line, but for me it didn't really add anything either.
At the end of the day Saving June is a tough read, but one that is well worth your time. Everything you can possibly imagine in a teenage life is explored here, and it is done amazingly well. Grab a box of tissues. You'll need them.
Nickel Plated was definitely a lot different than anything I've read lately. Nickel is the type of character that only comes along once in a while, because he's a little bit tough to love. In fact it took me a few chapters to really get into who he was, but once I was invested in him I learned a lot. He's self-sufficient and has financial freedom that most people my age dream about. On top of that he is so multi-faceted. A hard kid on the exterior, but a lost little boy who just is looking for something to hold onto on the interior.
I'm not really sure what to say about this book other than that I enjoyed it. It's a different kind of read because I was following Nickel on his money making ventures and sleuthing most of the time. He's a great kid. Granted he often uses people for money, but he does some really touching things in this book to help other people out as well. Watching him lead his own life was really fascinating. Nickel has to fly under the radar to stay out the foster care system. To say he is a smart kid is an understatement.
The point is that I enjoyed this book, but I also think that it wasn't really for me at this time. I'm kind of torn between enjoying Nickel and feeling like he was kind of a hard character to love. I see that he has to act like an adult because that's the situation that he's been put in, however he just felt so tough sometimes. It's a hard read for sure. I really just wanted to give him a hug. This book contains some tough subjects, as well as some “colorful” language. Perhaps it just wasn't the right time for me to read it.
I'm going to keep this on my pile and pick it up again in a bit, but for now I'm going to give a middle of the road rating. I liked Nickel, I liked his story, I think my mind just wasn't in the right place to really appreciate this book.
Ashfall was a book that took me a little bit to fully appreciate, but I ended up falling fully in love with it. I won't deny that the first few pages of Ashfall left me a bit angry towards Alex. As a main character he starts out the book just like most stereotypical teenagers. He is not at all appreciative of his family or the life they've built for him. Then again though, I quickly reminded myself that this was a dystopian novel. What better character to teach how important all that is, than one who doesn't know what he has until it's gone? Once I let myself become invested in Alex's struggle, I was hooked.
The world that Mullin builds is dark, volatile and eerily easy to envision. It is apparent that research has been done into supervolcanoes, because the world just bleeds off the page and into reality. As Alex and Darla slogged through feet of ash, battled ever changing weather conditions, and fought just to stay alive, I was on the edge of my seat. A quick warning to more sensitive readers: this book is very realistic. It shows mankind at their lowest and most afraid. There is violence in this book, there is death, that makes it all the more real.
It was really Alex and Darla's character growth through this story that struck me most though, and kept me reading on. These are kids, teens. However they have so much heart and will to live, that it's hard not to become immersed in their struggle for survival. Mullin doesn't take it easy on these two. There were moments where I just wanted to throw my hands in the air and yell “Give them a break already!”, but then I'd quickly go back to reading to see what happened next. Truth be told the pacing in this story is just perfect. There's always enough to keep you reading, without making it seem forced. I loved that.
Again, I won't deny that at first I had a little bit of a tough time getting into Ashfall. Still, once I started really becoming invested in this story, it was all over. I couldn't have put this book down even if I wanted to! That's the truth. If you're looking for a fantastic dystopian novel, one with a world based in reality, this is one for you.
Lest you think that this book is completely out of the ordinary for me to review, let me tell you a secret. I used to read thriller books ravenously. When I was younger they made up about 60% of our home library, so of course I read whatever I could get my hands on. I learned a lot about CIA operatives, bio weapons, types of guns and even some choice “colorful language”. I was lucky enough to have parents who didn't censor what I read, and so I was able to experience this exciting genre of books.
That being said, I can say with all honesty that Pandora's Succession ranks up there with my favorite thriller books. Russell Brooks has a knack for vivid writing, and each word read just drew me further and further into the intrigue. The premise of this story is fantastic! The deadly microbe Pandora is being mass produced, and it is up to Fox to stop it. I wondered, would he be able to put aside his vengeful feelings long enough to do it? Trust me, I was hooked.
Speaking of Ridley Fox, someone really needs to make a movie that features this main character. Fox's character has the perfect mixture of charisma, and the ability to push his feelings aside to complete his mission. As an “action hero” of sorts, I was impressed with how well written his character really was. Fox wasn't presented to me as this two-dimensional character who simply exists to fulfill the story. Instead his character had a lot of depth, a lot of background, and I found myself invested in his struggle without even noticing that it was happening. His vengeance fueled me, and I read on.
The one thing I was a little disappointed about, and I'm sure this is just me, is that I was able to figure out who the “mastermind” behind the whole plot was early on. Maybe it is the copious amount of books I'd read in the past that helped me with this. I couldn't say. I can say that what impressed me most, however, was that this fact still didn't take away from my overall enjoyment of the story. It's so action-packed, so fueled with emotion, that you just have to hold on for dear life and read.
I recommend this book to any of you out there who are fans of action or thriller movies, as well as those of you who are interested in diving into this genre. Pandora's Succession is an amazing place to start your foray. Just be sure to strap yourself in for a wild ride!
Okay first off, before anything else, a shout out to whoever wrote the synopsis for this book! THANK YOU for giving us just enough to be drawn in, and not spoiling anything big. I'm kind of frustrated with the way that book jackets pretty much tell you the plot lately. On to the review!
In my quest for more books from the male perspective, I stumbled upon Stupid Fast. I was really drawn in by the description, and so I signed up for the tour so I could read devour it. You know what? Best decision I ever made! Geoff Herbach should know that his book is fantastic! It's hilarious, it's a realistic portrayal of a teenage boy, it's heartwarming, it's emotional, oh and did I mention it's also hilarious?
Felton has one of the most original voices of any character that I've read this year. His character is funny, silly, sweet, adorable, and all kinds of awkward. Of course the most endearing thing about him is that this is all because he's struggling to grow up. See, Felton is pretty much the parent to his younger brother Andrew, since his mother is a fairly absent parent. The two of them bicker, much like all siblings do, but you can see the love that is there too. My favorite part about Felton though was his unabashed (and hilarious) view of the world around him. The way he phrases things had me laughing out loud! I'm glad I read this book at home, and not on the bus!
Stupid Fast is such a multi-faceted book too. On the surface are Felton's physical changes, that allow him to be brought into the world of football. His status as a “nobody” disappears, and all of the sudden he is faced with a much different set of social rules. However it's not only his social life that changes when this happens. Bring on the emotional parts of the book. As things start to get better in one aspect of his life, it becomes a struggle in the others. Watching Felton deal with his dysfunctional home life, with the dark secrets that are buried under his family, was really touching. I liked the fact that Geoff wasn't afraid to show that Felton isn't just a one dimensional guy. He, like all the rest of us, has to figure out what is most important in his life.
I fully admit that I devoured this book in one complete sitting. The mixture of serious emotions, life changing discoveries, and all out humor, made Stupid Fast a book that I simply couldn't set down. My eyes were glued to the page people. Honest to goodness. I fell in love with Felton and his story, and I'm sure that you will too! I'd love to say more, but I'll leave it up to you to discover this fantastic character and story. Trust me, you need a copy.
Going into Blue I honestly really wasn't sure what I should expect. I knew that the main character's daughter was ill, and I was hoping that this wasn't just a sad book. I've never minded a bit of a tearjerker, but books like that are always a tough read. Happily, I was genuinely surprised at the way that Blue is actually written. Lou Aronica doesn't really dwell on the fact that Becky is sick, but instead uses it as a jumping off point for the rest of this beautifully written story. I read this 400 page book in one night. I just couldn't bring myself to put it down.
Story wise, this book is an absolutely superb mixture of realistic and fantasy elements. The world of Tamarisk is stunningly imagined, and Aronica's writing draws you right in to this fantasy world. The characters, the landscape, even the melodies that were said to exist in this land, were right there in front of you. I fell in love. Still, there is enough realism about the problems that Meia and her subjects face that you really begin to care for them as much as Chris and Becky. Did I mention this was superb? Really, I was so truly impressed.
Character wise, Becky is such a fantastic character in this book. She is extremely strong, kind and extremely likeable as a main character. Her interactions with the characters around her was what I enjoyed the most though. Becky's ability to be sweet one moment and snide the next is exactly what I would expect from a young adult character. As for her father, Chris was also extremely well written. Although I couldn't connect with him as much as I did with Becky, since I haven't been through parenthood or any of the trials that Chris had to face, I did appreciate how realistically he was portrayed. Watching him rebuild his relationship with Becky was heartwarming, and yes, I did need those tissues for a bit.
Blue is a book that really spoke to me. It is very much about rekindling relationships, and building them even stronger around a shared understanding. It is about hope, and remembering that imagination is everything. Blue somehow manages to be sad and yet uplifting at the same time. I definitely recommend this to all my readers. If you are a lover of the fantasy genre, you'll find Tamarisk fascinating. If you are not, you'll still fall in love with Chris and Becky. There is something to enjoy for every reader in this book. Guaranteed to leave you breathless.
What impressed me most about Fracture, right off the bat, was the attention to detail. The way that Megan Miranda portrays Delaney's struggle to fit back into her old existence is done beautifully. I didn't expect Delaney to be able to just merrily skip back into her own life, and I was happy to see that wasn't the case. She is hurting, she is lost, and she feels the difference in the way people treat her now that she is a “miracle”. For Delaney, it isn't just the unknown of the ability that she's been given. It's much more than that. All she wants is normalcy. The life that she once had. In Delaney's case, she now knows that ignorance is in fact bliss.
The story takes off at a speedy pace from the time Delaney awakens, and the reader is treated to some very interesting character interactions. Delaney has to put her life back together with Decker, her best friend. She has to figure out how to fit back into her life with her parents who treat her like something breakable. Worse yet, this new ability has attracted a dark and sinister boy named Troy. Watching her navigate the twists and turns that this new lifestyle throws at her made Fracture a lot of fun to read. Questions about euthanasia, and life choices also show up here and really make you think.
As much as I loved the writing though, what fell short for me was Delaney's character. I didn't love her, or hate her, but rather felt kind of blandly about her whole persona. There were times in the story where she was extremely over dramatic. Then others where it almost felt like she was bordering on manic. Let's be honest, Delaney has been through one hell of an experience. I can give her a lot of wiggle room mentally for that. Even still, her personality bordered on whiny and hypocritical a lot, which was tough for me to read. I loved her story, I just didn't particularly love her.
I can honestly say that, as a whole, Fracture is a very well written and intriguing story. I know without a doubt that there are tons of readers out there who will wholeheartedly love Delaney's character, and that is why I still 100% recommend this book! I am but one reader in a sea of many. If you read Fracture for no other reason, read it for the fact that it blends two very different story types into one amazing book. Delaney's story isn't the happiest one, but it is well worth your time.
What do I say about Vanish that hasn't already been said on every other blog? It's amazing, it's well-written, it's one of the best books I've read so far this year. Sometimes I have a phobia of reading the next book in a series, worried that it won't be as good as it's predecessor. This one? Better. Hands down.
Jacinda is back and she's just as stubborn and passionate as ever. In fact, I really felt closer to Jacinda in this story because her emotions are so much stronger. She knows what she wants, and she's not afraid to break the rules if that's what it takes. As always, it doesn't exactly make her a popular character, but this time... well I won't spoil it but let's just say she takes some others along for the ride. I have always loved Jacinda's fire. That's why I was so happy that it is present and accounted for. One pleasant surprise for me though was that Cassian's personality is a lot more fleshed out in Vanish. I got to know so much more about him, and I really loved it. If I was having a hard time choosing a side before, now I'm even more lost.
Readers will get a much better idea of the day to day life of the pride, which I thoroughly enjoyed. The plot is quick, but easy to follow, and the action sequences abound without taking the spotlight from the bigger picture. The relationships between Jacinda and the people in her pride are so much more vivid in this book. Characters that were previously hidden in the shadows emerge, develop, and become so essential to the story. Vanish gave me a new appreciation for the world that Sophie Jordan had so meticulously built. I simply cannot wait for the next book!
If you fell in love with Firelight, I'm going to personally guarantee that you'll eat Vanish up. Whether you are on the side of Will, or the side of Cassian, this installment has a great fiery love triangle that burns up the page. Pair that with a great story line and you have a book that I devoured. Start to finish in one night. Sophie Jordan fans rejoice! There is one more book left in this fabulous trilogy. Just be warned, the ending of this one will leave you wanting more.
Wow. That's all I can start out with, is wow. I am utterly stunned by how original, how beautiful, and how amazingly captivating Forgotten was. I promise to do my best to explain without any spoilers, but let me just say that this is a book you need to keep your eye on. Trust me.
London Lane has an interesting problem. Every night when she goes to sleep, her memories disappear and she starts the next day with a blank slate. Sounds pretty awful right? Well that's what I thought too, but London handles her situation with the utmost grace and strength. I fell in love with her right from the start. Using a notebook and a specially programmed phone, London keeps her life on track the best way she knows how. It was fascinating to watch her go through her daily life.
Now if you're thinking that London is just like any other person who might have something like amnesia, let me guarantee you that you're wrong. See she may forget the past, but what is really captivating about her life is that she sees the future. It's not always clear, it's not always happy, but it's there. London lives her life in the future, because she cannot seem to remember her past. People who are unimportant flit by, but the people she knows will stick are always there to be remembered when she wakes up in the morning. The downside to seeing the future is that she can't change it. Or can she? Are you salivating over the prospect yet? As you should be! This added so much more to the story, especially when the mystery (that I won't spoil for you) comes into play. Did I mention this book is amazing?
In terms of the hot guy and romance that is promised in the synopsis, I was really pleased with how it all worked out. Instead of just throwing London into a new relationship with some unspoken connection, the two of them really do grow together. Cat Patrick also throws in some information that makes you feel really good about their match. On top of that, Luke is to die for. He's sweet, funny, sensitive, basically perfect. However he's not so perfect that he is unbelievable. Luke is the guy we all want in our lives. Flawed, but flawed perfectly. I think I might be in love too.
There are so many elements of this book that I'd love to shout from the rooftops, but I'll have to leave it here. Anything else would be a spoiler, and you all know my policy on spoilers. So therefore, you'll have to trust me when I say that Forgotten is well worth your time! If you want a story that is truly original, go and get a copy of this book. You won't be sorry.
How do I explain what made me love Everneath so very much? It wasn't just the characters, who are so realistic that you can feel their emotions emanating from the page. In fact it wasn't just even the amazing story line that had me reading voraciously. It was the two of these things blended together, my ability to get lost inside Nikki's story, that left me breathless at the end. Everneath is beautiful, plain and simple.
Every story has a heroine, and this one is no different. I fell in love with Nikki from the very beginning. Her emotions were so palpable and real. Even when she made decisions I didn't quite agree with, I saw her motivations behind. Everything about her was so selfless. Flanking her on either side are two very different boys with two very different motivations. I loved Jack. Can I say that again? I loved him. He is the epitome of what we all want in a relationship. Sweet, giving, unshakable in his loyalty. His story with Nikki blew me away. Then there is Cole who, even though he is technically the “villian”, I just couldn't help but love. There is so much wrapped up in his character that despite how he acts sometimes he is just too broken to dislike.
These stunning characters are placed in an even more gorgeous story line, as Brodi Ashton whisks us away into the story of the Everneath. I'm not going to share any details that might be spoilers. I believe that this is the type of book you'll just have to experience for yourself. Still, I could not believe how perfectly Ashton blended myth with reality. Nikki's story mirrors a myth almost perfectly and, even when you know what's going to ultimately happen, she provides enough hope to keep you hanging on. Love plays a big part in this story. The link between two people who love each other so much that time, nor space, can separate them. It broke my heart with its beauty.
Reading Everneath was effortless, if that makes any sense. It was such a pleasure to turn every page that it was almost like I wasn't reading at all. What Brodi Ashton has created within this pages is absolutely wonderful. There is no way I can explain to you why this book touched me so much, only that it did. I ended the story with tears in my eyes and something beyond a need to find out what happens next. More of an ache.
I haven't been as in love as I am with these characters in a long, long time. That alone makes Everneath one of my top reads, not just of the year but of all time. If you are a hopeless romantic, if you are a fan of mythology, or if you just enjoy rooting for the good in the world, this is a book you'll enjoy. I recommend Everneath with all my heart.
First off, let it be known that I am dragon obsessed. Second only to zombies, dragons top my list as one of the most interesting and richly described mythological beings of all time. What does this have to do with anything? Well this means that every book I go into with dragons is a treat for me, but also that I'm rather picky about my dragon lore. I want to either be wowed with new developments, or at least have a story that sticks to what has been created in the past. So going into Flying Blind I was really excited! What would the pages hold for me? I opened the book, and dove in.
Let me be the first to say that Deborah Cooke has hit the nail on the head with her dragon lore! I know that this new YA series is a spin off of her original “Dragonfire” series, and so I should have known it would be amazing. Cooke not only paints the reader a gorgeous portrayal of dragon kind with the Pyr, but she also gives them a rich and detailed history about them as well. Add in a few bad guys and some fight scenes, and I was hooked. Learning with Zoë was seriously fantastic. I felt myself frustrated when she was, excited when she was, all the while uncovering history with her. As I read I found myself immersed in the world that revolved around Zoë. Just in terms of setting and back story, I was already in love with this book.
In terms of characters, Flying Blind has quite a few different personality types to offer. First up is Zoë, the main character. She's fiesty and a bit overzealous sometimes. At 15 years old she is supposed to be developing her Wyrven powers. Unfortunately... it's slow going. I loved the original voice that Zoë had, and swooned over the fact that she wasn't a lovesick puppy dog at any point in the book. Jealous yes, angsty and depressed no In fact, as the Wyrven to be, Zoë kicks some behind! Round out her character with a good old fashioned love interest, her best friend/crush, and a few other Pyr, and you have a great cast! Besides Zoë I'd have to say that my favorite character was definitely Liam. He's a sweetheart, and when you're a dragon that is a little tough to pull off sometimes.
The only reason that I am giving this book a slightly lower rating is that it is exhausting to read. I don't mean that the writing is poor, it's truly amazing, and you've seen how much I love the characters. So let me explain. At the beginning of the story I was allowed to meet Zoë and she was truly what dragged me in. Her wit, her inner pondering, it was all great! Things were moving along at a nice pace, and I was throughly enjoying being in her world. Then as the book neared the middle, it got a little slow. I thought it was understandable, since important information was being revealed. However then, towards the end, I felt bombarded with fight scene after fight scene and problem after problem that needed to be solved. It was all a bit overwhelming. Don't get me wrong, I love action. However presented in this fashion, it kind of broke my connection with the book. By the time that I finally got to the end of the book, I was a bit torn as to what to write in my review. Overall I enjoyed the read, but I always strive to be honest with my readers. I've sat back though and I'm ready to give the bottom line.
Flying Blind is a breath of fresh air in an otherwise saturated market. The simple fact that Zoë is so strong and calculating makes her different than a lot of other MC's her age, and that makes her intriguing in my book. Add in some great dragon lore, and you have a series that I can fully get behind. I know that my issue with this book is my own opinion, and honestly I'm sure that it only happened because there was so much important information to fit in this first installment. Therefore I'm extremely excited for the next book! I can't wait to see what happens next.
Let me say first off that Memento Nora blew me away in the best way possible. Don't be fooled by it's small size. This book packs a massive punch! In fact it had me so hooked in that I didn't set it down at all until I was completely through it. Trust me, this book is one that you'll want to pick up.
The plot of this story unashamedly grabs you by the shoulders and pulls you straight in. Nora's world is fascinating, a world that is built around the ability to forget. Anytime that something bad happens, anytime something might scar your otherwise happy life, you can take a pill and start over from square one. Completely care free and new. “Glossy” as Nora calls it. The government even gives the people incentives to use the service. Control anyone? This concept really drove the book home for me.
Add in the fact that Nora is a fabulous main character, and there's no turning back. Nora is bold, vivid and strong. Her choice to remember everything is really what made me appreciate her. The strength that she radiates is admirable. In a world where everyone else wants to forget, Nora chooses to remember. I was totally smitten with her! Nora's two friends each also have their own quirky and fantastic personalities. I don't want to give anything away, but it is these two people who really bring out the best in Nora. I really enjoyed how much they complimented her, and yet challenged her at the same time. Angie Smibert has built a gorgeous trifecta of character personalities, and I guarantee they'll draw you in too.
I know that I've already been gushing, but let me share with you what really made me love Memento Nora. It is all about the power of comic books. Nora and her friends use their skills and their ingenuity to host a revolution, based on a simple homemade comic book. I can't explain how much that struck me. It might seem a bit silly, but I think this book really shows what you can do if you put your mind to it. It may not be the main focus of the book, but the simple fact that these three characters were willing to put their lives at stake to accomplish something massive really struck me.
I'll end my rambling here and simply say that I loved this book. I 100% recommend it to you. Beg or borrow a copy! You won't be sorry that you did. Angie Smibert has built a unique and engaging world that is sure to pull you in and not let you go.
Number one thing I loved about Anna Dressed In Blood above anything else? Cas. Hands down, it's Cas. He is the best male character I've ever read! You know the brooding, mysterious boy that makes a debut in almost every novel? He is always the crush of the female character because he is so different. That boy? That's Cas. It's amazing to finally get to see things from that boy's point of view, and let me tell you, it's a pretty intense point of view. As a main character, Cas shows us what it is like to be the lone wolf. The person trying to keep others at bay to protect them. It's sensational!
I do admit that this book scared the pants off me for a bit. Let's be honest, this isn't a book for the faint of heart. In fact, if you're not a fan of slightly gory occurrences? This might not be for you. However if you are okay with some violence in your reading, then you'll love Kendare Blake's story. This is a darker story. One filled with grief, vengeance, and yet still the hope that there is something better out there. The multiple layers create something that is wholly immersive, and easy to read.
Anna Dressed In Blood moves at breakneck speed, and I promise you that if you pick it up you won't set it down until you've finished reading. The way that the characters all compliment one another, the way that just enough suspense gets placed in just the right places, it makes this a story that is massively addicted. In fact, by the time that I reached the end I wanted to throw the book across the room. Not because I didn't love it. Nay, because I wish I had more! I cannot wait.
Suffice it to say, if you couldn't tell from my above ramblings, this is a book that I just adored. Kendare Blake has taken all of the elements that I love in a good story and blended them together into something that is just too good to be true. I never thought I'd find myself enamored with a ghost, but there you have it. Blake has managed to do that for me. I don't doubt you'll feel the same way when you pick up a copy of this book. Anna Dressed In Blood is amazing. Get it.
Shattered Souls isn't just a book that you read, it's a book that you experience. I'm going to start out with that. Honestly, from page one I was completely hooked into Lenzi's struggle, her world, and everything going on. This is a haunting tale, with so much suspense that it sinks it's teeth into you and carries you along as things develop. What I'm saying is that this is a book that you need to read. It's addictive.
We meet Lenzi, a troubled girl who isn't quite sure what is going on in her life. She keeps hearing voices, seeing visions, and the pills just aren't working. However Lenzi isn't the type to back down. I loved that her character was so deep and realistic. No matter how much fear she feels, she is willing to admit it and move forward anyway. It helps, of course, that she has Zak, her sweet and broken boyfriend, to keep her grounded. I fell in love with him almost instantly, despite his cracked interior. The two of them are really sweet together, until cocky and charming Alden comes along. In fact, the more time Lenzi spends around Alden the tougher things get. Do you sense a love triangle? If you do, you are correct. I'm generally not a huge fan of them but honestly? This one is done perfectly and it's delicious (and addictive) to read!
This is a book that will really keep you on your toes as you read. All the emotions in this book are palpable, and I found it so easy to feel what Lenzi was feeling. The emotional aspect of the writing in this book is done so gorgeously, that it just bleeds off the page and into your heart. Although the basic plot of Shattered Souls is rather simple, Mary Lindsey adds in her own twists that will keep you reading well into the night. There are so many beautifully executed clues peppered into the story. By the time I was halfway through I was completely enamored and engaged with the book. There is something for everyone in here. Wit, twists, anger, a slight creep factor. It's all here.
What killed me (and I loved) at the same time, was the ending. I won't spoil it one bit. This is a story you'll need to experience for yourself. I will say that the climax to this book leaves nothing wanting. Except perhaps that you'll want another book. A wonderfully written debut, Shattered Souls is a book that I would (and will once I get my own copy) read a hundred times over.
There is so much wrapped up in Torn that it's not exactly easy to review. A bit of murder, lots of magic, and a love triangle that is messy and intriguing. Add it all up and you have a book is equal parts contemporary fiction and paranormal fiction. Pretty amazing combination wouldn't you think? Sadly I'm honestly still stuck on how I feel about this book.
Maura is a fairly strong character overall, but it was tough for me to like her at the beginning. As a reader I saw that Erica O'Rourke was working to create a character that could grow into her own. Maura's inability to feel strength comes from many sources around her, including her own family hiding her in the shadows and keeping secrets from her. However there were times when she bordered on whining and it really bothered me. Once she broke out of her shell, and found her inner strength, things between us were much better. I finally felt a connection to her at the end of the book.
In terms of romance, there's plenty of steam between Maura and the two men she comes into contact with. Delicious love triangle anyone? Luc and Collin are two sides of the spectrum. Luc is charismatic and self-assured, while Collin is quiet, stoic and reserved. To be honest I thought the two of them were perfect foils for the two parts of Maura's life. If I were in her shoes, I'd have just as much trouble choosing as she does. I'm still not a hundred percent sure if her interest in both of them makes sense but it is Maura's life, not mine.
The world building in Torn was rather good. The magic is explained well, and I enjoyed the way that it was attached to the elements. My only complaint here is that I would have liked a better glimpse into the people behind the magic. The Arcs are mentioned a few times as the keepers of the magic, but never fully fleshed out. Even Luc, who is an important character, doesn't have much back story in terms of his abilities. I hope that in the sequel there will be more explanation of the world Maura has been dropped into. That was what really held my attention, and kept me wanting more.
My feelings for Torn are just so mixed. I feel just as lost as Maura at this point. What I can definitely say is that this book kept me reading until the last page, which means a lot. I am definitely looking forward to book two, to see if the things I missed are explained there. As a complete package, this was a good introduction into Maura's world. I now wait to find out what happens next.
Such an amazing intro into the next book! Good thing I have it on my NetGalley...I need to get reading!
Wonderfully written and beautifully illustrated, Chrissie's Shell is the story of a little turtle who desperately wants to be someone else. To Chrissie, her shell is empty. She doesn't see herself as a “someone”, and dreams daily about being another animal. Someone faster, stronger, or even just prettier. Through the story, Chrissie learns that being her is actually quite special, and that she was made that way intentionally. As Chrissie morns her empty shell, she actually keeps doing good deeds for others with what she is given. It's really quite touching.
Honestly I really loved this book. Although I'm no longer much of a church goer, the overall message in this book is one that I think can be shared with all, no matter what your religious affiliation. Chrissie's story shows children that they are who they are on purpose. That each person is different, and special! I cannot think of a better message than one of self-worth. This book projects that beautifully.
I see this as a great story to share with a Sunday school class, or something read to a child before bed. The illustrations are bright, vivid and honestly quite adorable! I'm an adult and I still giggled when I saw the mouse with wheels for feet, as Chrissie compares him to a race car. There is a lot to love in this book, no matter what age you might be.
The Demi-Monde: Winter: Book I of the Demi-Monde Oh The Demi Monde: Winter, what do I say about you first? It's pretty obvious straight away that this is a very lengthy read. I'm a fan of Science Fiction and therefore I'm used to reading books that border on tomes. Still, I'm certain that many people are going to be scared off immediately by the hefty weight of this book. At 522 pages, this is definitely not a light read.
That being said, the book actually starts out very well. From the first page the reader is thrown into a skewed world that mirrors our own, but is infinitely more terrifying. Imagine a place where the worst villains the most reviled of historical figures, make their home. A land where racism and sexism run rampant. All created by the government to fit into a training simulation for soldiers. The most advanced simulation ever seen, with the power to think for itself. Sound scary? Ella Thomas thinks so too, and yet she's headed in.
Now the real problem I found with this book was that Rod Rees was too ambitious. I know this sounds odd, but he packs so many different tropes into this story that after a while it becomes difficult to follow. I loved Ella. I loved everything about her intelligent schemes and daring escapes. Honestly, if the book had just followed her I would have been just fine. However there are social classes to remember, slang terms for different races, city names, wars, dates, and endless amounts of other information. If I was wondering why this book was so long, I found my answer.
The fact is, there are a lot of great things in this book. Wonderful characters, twists and turns. It just all happened to be buried under a lot of information that felt like it didn't need to be there. I skimmed a lot of this story if I'm being honest. Fact is, the parts I read still made up a whole story that was amazing. So now you see why my rating is where it is. Kudos to Rod Rees for taking on such an ambitious project, but perhaps the next book should have a little less in the info-dump department so the page count goes down.
Someone please pinch me. I'm pretty sure I've died and gone to book heaven and, if Hourglass is what I can look forward to, I'm not coming back! Wow, just wow. I apologize in advance for all the rambling that will ensue. This book is so fantastic, so amazing, that I just cannot seem to express exactly how much I loved it. I'll try though, for you.
First of all, there are the characters. Emerson Cole takes her rightful place among my all time favorite female characters. She's sassy, she's fiery, and the best part is that Emerson isn't taken in by bedroom eyes and vivid smiles. Oh sure, she might notice them. However if you want to be a part of Emerson's life, you'd better be prepared to hold your own on the battleground of wit. The snark that comes out her mouth so naturally cracked me up, and I loved the chemistry between her and the other characters. Then there is Michael. Smooth, put together, and off limits for Emerson. The tension between them just crackles deliciously. Finally, and my favorite, the beautifully broken bad boy, Kaleb. This boy is a mess, but wow does he own it. In this humble reader's opinion, he is the only person who can stand their own next to Miss Emerson Cole.
The Science Fiction portion of Hourglass comes into play in Emerson's unique ability. She can see ripples from the past, and it's not doing her any favors in the normalcy department. I could definitely see that Myra McEntire had done her research on time travel. Everything that is presented is completely plausible, and as a regular reader of Science Fiction I found that amazing. In fact, this whole story is blended together so perfectly, so seamlessly, that I could almost believe I'd be walking down the street and come face to face with Emerson, or any one of her unwanted guests. Truth be told, the web that is woven in Hourglass is one that I wasn't able to pull out of, and I really didn't want to.
I know I'm rambling now, so I'll finish off with a last thought. I have read over 100 books so far this year, and sometimes they start to blend together. However, after finishing Hourglass, I am reminded that there are gems out there that stand out. Myra McEntire has written a stunner of a novel. Complete with realistic characters, gorgeously blended science fiction and paranormal elements, and one heck of a story line, this is a book that you need to read. Buy it.
This is actually the first graphic novel that I've read in a long time. In fact, it's the first one I've ever reviewed here on this blog! I'm going to have to step back into my graphic novel loving shoes. Let's give it a go!
First let's talk illustrations. I Love Him To Pieces keeps it simple, with black and white illustrations. The fantastic part about this graphic novel is that the illustrator has put so much detail into each panel. From the classroom where Jack Chen first meets Dicey, to the baseball diamond where they decide there might be something more in store for the two of them, the illustrations are fairly intricate and gorgeously done. Each panel draws your eye in and keeps you interested in the story line. Also, if you're a fan of zombies but not a huge fan of gore, this graphic novel will suit your taste. The illustrations definitely have the zombie vibe, without the over the top gore factor.
Story wise, there is quite an adorable romance mixed up into this zombie filled ride. Dicey and Jack Chen are on two opposite ends of the spectrum. A baseball playing jock, and a science loving nerd. How can the two of them mesh? Honestly that is the best part of the graphic novel, is watching the way these two characters interact. Dicey is extroverted and a take charge girl, which the illustrator and author depict perfectly. Jack on the other hand likes to hang outside the radar and think things through. The two of them are constantly sniping at one another, and it is hilarious to watch. It's an sweet and awkward romance that you'll find. That, and a zombie apocalypse.
I won't go any further, since I want you to give this graphic novel a try and a great way to tempt you is to keep you guessing. I Love Him To Pieces is a part of the My Boyfriend is a Monster series, and I cannot wait to see where this goes. If you aren't much of a graphic novel reader, this might be a great place for you to start. The story reads a lot like a normal book, just with the addition of fabulous illustration panels that catch your eye and draw you in. I highly recommend you check this out.