Review: Bloodlines

Author: Richelle Mead

Pages: 421

Publisher: Razorbill

Source: Library

Challenge: Ultimate Reviewer's Challenge

Synopsis: Sydney is an alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of human and vampires. They protect vampire secrets - and human lives. When Sydney is torn from her bed in the middle of the night, at first she thinks she's still being punished for her complicated alliance with dhampir Rose Hathaway. But what unfolds is far worse. Jill Dragomir - the sister of Moroi Queen Lissa Dragomir - is in mortal danger, and the Moroi must send her into hiding. To avoid a civil war, Sydney is called upon to act as Jill's guardian and protector, posing as her roommate in the last place anyone would think to look for vampire royalty - a human boarding school in Palm Springs, California. But instead of finding safety at Amberwood Prep, Sydney discovers the drama is only just beginning.

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Vampire Academy is one of my favourite series ever. They're some of the best escapes from reality and I never get tired of these books. That's why I was so sad when reading Last Sacrifice (which you could probably tell if you read my review of it). That being said, I wanted to read Bloodlines but had a long list of fears. I should not have worried.

Fear # 1) I worried I wouldn't like Sydney. I did. A lot. She was a capable, strong women and walked a very fine line. Sydney'a childhood kind of sucked and she barely had any fun. I enjoyed watching Sydney change and learn about her fears or when she felt awkward. I never thought I'd think that before since in Vampire Academy Syndey's aloof and helpful but a stickler to the rules. Seeing more of her really made me appreciate the complexity of her character.

Fear # 2) Adrian. I was so fearful of Adrian. I wanted him to be with Rose and the idea of Adrian with someone else just bugged me. This is the part that impressed me: Adrian was in pain. He was getting over Rose. Their romance meant something to him and he didn't get over her quickly. What I'm trying to say is that if he had, I would have been disappointed. This makes Adrian a more real character to me. I loved Adrian in Bloodlines, he's one of my favourite characters ever. I enjoyed reading about him and want more.

Fear # 3) What happened to all the other main characters we knew and loved? Rose, Lissa, Christian, Dimitri? Guess what, THEY'RE THERE. At least for a little while or mentioned here and there. And it's really not as weird as I thought it would be to read about Rose compared to reading as Rose. I liked it because now I feel like I know the story from more perspectives and a little bit more in depth.

Fear # 4) Boring plot. Well, I wasn't bored. Never. Bloodlines wasn't like Vampire Academy with lots of action everywhere, it was more "stuff happens" ish than that. There's less thrill but still a mystery. You still never want to stop reading. You still finish the last page hungry for more. There's still surprises, mysteries, twists and of course, trouble. It's just a different kind. There are new characters that are set up, as well as an addition to the mythology. Definitely more info on Alchemists.

My last thought was that even if I hadn't have read Vampire Academy, I still would have enjoyed Bloodlines. I did like Bloodlines a lot because of Vampire Academy though so I think the series still has a ways to go in establishing itself. I can't wait to see where the story goes. (I hope it's really long.) I'll also stop comparing the two series after this review, as they're both good in their own ways. I'm wavering between 4 and 4.5 so I'll round up. 4.5 stars!

**** & 1/2 *

Review: Want to Go Private

Author: Sarah Darer Littman
Pages: 330
Publisher: Scholastic
Source: Library
Synopsis: Abby and Luke chat online. They've never met. But they are going to. Soon.


Abby is starting high school--it should be exciting, so why doesn't she care? Everyone tells her to "make an effort," but why can't she just be herself? Abby quickly feels like she's losing a grip on her once-happy life. The only thing she cares about anymore is talking to Luke, a guy she met online, who understands. It feels dangerous and yet good to chat with Luke--he is her secret, and she's his. Then Luke asks her to meet him, and she does. But Luke isn't who he says he is. When Abby goes missing, everyone is left to put together the pieces. If they don't, they'll never see Abby again.


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Want To Go Private was another of those incredible contemporary books that need to be on your shelf like If I Stay or Thirteen Reasons Why. There's so much realism and emotion.

Abby is your typical, awkward 14 year old. It's her first year of high school and she isn't too excited about it. Abby doesn't want things to change and has a hard time meeting and accepting new people into her life. She eventually feels very lonely.

What part of that could I not relate to? I started high school two years ago and for the first few months, I hated it. I hated that all my friends were at different schools, that there were these cliques and it was hard to hang out with new people outside of class. I felt the same way as her- alone. Gradually it got much better but I can totally see where she's coming from when she starts talking to Luke.

Abby is relatable. Her relationship with her friend Faith was real, as was her conflict with Lily. She has parents she loves but sometimes can't stand like all of us. She gets high marks in math and science and she's on the honor roll. She's not a stupid or particularly weak girl. When you think of online predators taking advantage of girls, you think "Gosh, how stupid were these girls? That would never happen to me." Want to Go Private was so important in the way that it raises awareness in a way that doesn't insult or belittle the characters.

Also, since the story was told in alternating perspectives, readers will appreciate the impact of what happened on everyone from Abby's family to her friends. We even see how people in school would react. Everyone had their own view which weaves together to create a story so real you can see it happening.

Bloggers most importantly should take warning from this book. We're a group of people who spend hours promoting and building relationships on the web. Also, it's just a really good book that should be often featured.

Want to Go Private was a real, strong view of an important issue. Abby's story is one that will have you emotionally involved and hoping for the best. If I had a kid, I'd give this book to them. If I were a teacher, I'd make my students read it. (Even the most reluctant reader would be able to relate to Abby's troubles.) Want to Go Private fully deserves 4.5 stars. I really thought it was a super read.

**** & 1/2 *

Review: Circle of Fire

Author: Michelle Zink

Pages: 362

Publisher: Little Brown

Source: Library

Series: Prophecy of the Sister #3

Synopsis: With time dwindling but her will to end the Prophecy stronger than ever, Lia sets out on a journey to find the remaining keys, locate the missing pages of the Prophecy, and convince her sister Alice to help--or risk her life trying. Lia has her beloved Dimitri by her side, but Alice has James, the man who once loved her sister--and maybe still does. James doesn't know the truth about either sister, or the prophecy that divides them. And Alice intends to keep it that way. There are some secrets sisters aren't meant to share. Because when they do, it destroys them. This stunning conclusion to Michelle Zink's Prophecy of the Sisters trilogy will make saying good-bye bittersweet for readers.

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Circle of Fire was a very fitting conclusion to the Prophecy of the Sisters trilogy by Michelle Zink.

I love these books. There's something so unique about them. They're chilling and dark. They're creepy and complicated. They're impossible to put down. And something about the writing, the voice... It's exactly like Lia talking. Her essence is in the writing making it easy to get into the story. The plot is complex, the characters are worthy, and the world is full of danger and hope. That's the full package, people. After finishing the series, I looked back fondly and thought "What great books. Totally worthy of rereading."

Lia in Circle of Fire is different. Her character has matured since the beginning. She's changed, become less trusting, less forgiving. Less innocent. Lia tries to fight the darkness with her strength. I couldn't help but support Lia fully. She has had such a hard time and she's still holding on. That kind of strength is admirable. She's not invulnerable. There are moments when she feels like giving up but she doesn't. Part of that is because of Dimitri. Their love is mature and I never once doubted it. They supported each other and were an exemplary couple.

The relationships in Circle of Fire were fascinating in the most realistic way. Somehow, in between all the save-the-world stuff there was time for friendship, romance and family. While the keys didn't make as much of an appearance as usual, they were part of the story in a believable way. Never once did anyone act in a way that had me questioning reality. There was again, so much complexity. Redemption, loss, betrayal, everything. I did shed tears at the end. There will be much to think about when you're done Circle of Fire.

I think the ending fit. I'm content with it. I was dreading getting to the end and wished I could read slower. I didn't realize until I was done what a great series this is. It's different from anything else and I will be sure to read anything by Michelle Zink since I have acquired so much faith in her writing. If you haven't read Prophecy of the Sisters, you're in for a dark, decadent, treat. 4.5 stars,

**** & 1/2 *

Review: Jersey Tomatoes are the Best

Author: Maria Padian
Pages: 352
Publisher: Knopf
Source: Library
Synopsis: This is a hilarious and heartbreaking story of two teen girls and the summer when everything changes for them. Both Henry and Eva are New Jersey natives and excellent athletes: Henry's a master on the tennis court and Eva is a graceful ballerina. When opportunity knocks for both of them the summer before their junior year in high school they throw open the door: Henry sees freedom from her overbearing father and a chance to build her talents on the court. Eva sees the chance to be the best as well as even more pressure to be graceful, lighter, more perfect on the dance floor. 


Soon, Eva's obsession with physical perfection leads her down the path to anorexia, and her health issues overwhelm everything else. But through it all these two best friends know that Jersey Tomatoes are the Best, and nothing will come between them no matter the distance.


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Jersey Tomatoes are the Best deserves way more recognition than it has been receiving. It's a great story with two real girls who make strong choices.

Eva and Henry are both incredibly talented. Eva's a ballerina and Henry is a tennis player. They are both on the path to success which is actually pretty hard. They both have overbearing parents but they also have each other and are best friends. That kind of friendship is so sweet. It's refreshing to read of friends who are actually friends and not frenemies, who support each other and are equal. The story would have been good with only one of the girls as a character but with both it was fantastic.

I loved reading this book. I'm an (ignorant) Canadian so all I know about New Jersey is that it's near New York and there's Jersey Shore. So reading about all the Jersey jokes fascinated me. Jersey Tomatoes are the Best had this readability thing going for it too. The second I started the book I was hooked to the story. I wanted to know the ending, I was curious about the characters so much so that I didn't feel like I was reading a book as much I was seeing the story happen in my head. I LOVE when that happens.

Now a bit about the characters... Eva is a perfectionist. She has a thing for lines and is so sweet. Something does happen to her but I thought there were many hints and what happened happened in a way that was believable and continued the story. I do like that the story was more about Eva than what happened to her. Eva is funny, sweet, and a loyal friend though she does have a dark streak.

Henry is a character that radiates strength. She's deadly on the tennis court and like Eva, she has some issues but she's so real and teenage like about them that you can't help but be on her side. She's so relatable as she manages her life and makes strong decisions that prove the strength of her character. I really loved Henry.

What Jersey Tomatoes are the Best has going for it is the fact that there is not one sole problem and focus in the novel. There are numerous problems and events so the book reads truly like life with no clear good choices.

This is a contemporary read that should not be missed. It's not a super emotional read or full of light nothingness but an enjoyable genuinely good read. 4.5 stars,

**** & 1/2 *

Review: Madame Tussaud: A Novel of the French Revolution

Author: Michelle Moran
Pages: 446
Publisher: Crown Publishing Group
Source: Review Copy- Thank you!!
Synopsis: Smart and ambitious, Marie Tussaud has learned the secrets of wax sculpting by working alongside her uncle in their celebrated wax museum, the Salon de Cire. From her popular model of the American ambassador, Thomas Jefferson, to her tableau of the royal family at dinner, Marie’s museum provides Parisians with the very latest news on fashion, gossip, and even politics. Her customers hail from every walk of life, yet her greatest dream is to attract the attention of Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI; their stamp of approval on her work could catapult her and her museum to the fame and riches she desires. After months of anticipation, Marie learns that the royal family is willing to come and see their likenesses. When they finally arrive, the king’s sister is so impressed that she requests Marie’s presence at Versailles as a royal tutor in wax sculpting. It is a request Marie knows she cannot refuse—even if it means time away
from her beloved Salon and her increasingly dear friend, Henri Charles.

As Marie gets to know her pupil, Princesse Élisabeth, she also becomes acquainted with the king and queen, who introduce her to the glamorous life at court. From lavish parties with more delicacies than she’s ever seen to rooms filled with candles lit only once before being discarded, Marie steps into a world entirely different from her home on the Boulevard du Temple, where people are selling their teeth in order to put food on the table.

Meanwhile, many resent the vast separation between rich and poor. In salons and cafés across Paris, people like Camille Desmoulins, Jean-Paul Marat, and Maximilien Robespierre are lashing out against the monarchy. Soon, there’s whispered talk of revolution. . . . Will Marie be able to hold on to both the love of her life and her friendship with the royal family as France approaches civil war? And more important, will she be able to fulfill the demands of powerful revolutionaries who ask that she make the death masks of beheaded aristocrats, some of whom she knows?

Spanning five years, from the budding revolution to the Reign of Terror, Madame Tussaud brings us into the world of an incredible heroine whose talent for wax modeling saved her life and preserved the faces of a vanished kingdom.


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I'd like to start off by saying that while Madame Tussaud is not a YA novel, it's a book that can appeal to many teens (like me). My experience with historical fiction is limited, but I do have to say that Madame Tussaud is now one of my favorites.

It starts with the writing- so easy to read and matter of fact. There's never a pointless scene as in every page you learn a bit more about Marie and her world, from the Salon de Circe to Rose Bertin. It's not hard to get engrossed in the story and I often almost missed my stop when I read this book on the bus. (Seriously, that happened at least three times before I decided to stop reading on the bus.)

The story itself is very interesting. Marie is a strong woman that I easily liked and related to. She's had a really hard life and her strength always shined through. I was shocked at some of the events that took place in this novel. It's about the French revolution- something I don't know much about but I found that I learned a lot later on.

While the historical aspect of the novel was really strong, I didn't feel like it took precedence over the story. There was a masterful blend of history and fiction that made the little jumps of time feel more natural. I wasn't offset by the jumps of times (sometimes entire months passed by between chapters). At the same time, I feel like I learned a lot about the French revolution.

One of my favorite parts of the book were little passages from the actual revolution at the beginning and during the chapter. I thought it added authenticity and it reminded the reader that most of the events taking place were more or less true. I also did think a little about the characters and their motivations later on, which is always good. The more a book sticks with me, the better it is.

I'm really happy to have read this book. I kind of like that the main character, Marie, was older and not prone to all the insecurities teens usually have. I found that refreshing. There isn't much content that isn't appropriate for teens, except maybe that a lot of the stuff that happens is horrible so this isn't a light, fun read. The best compliment I can give this book is that after finishing it, I immediately decided to read every other historical fiction the author, Michelle Moran, has written.

Overall I enjoyed this book. There were many elements of it I liked, from the characters to the world, but in the end I liked it because it's the unique story of a real, strong woman and I think it's a memorable read. 4.5 stars,

**** & 1/2 *

Review: Bad Girls Don't Die

Author: Katie Alender
Pages: 346
Publisher: Hyperion
Source: Library
Synopsis: When Alexis’s little sister Kasey becomes obsessed with an antique doll, Alexis thinks nothing of it. Kasey is a weird kid. Period. Alexis is considered weird, too, by the kids in her high school, by her parents, even by her own Goth friends. Things get weirder, though, when the old house they live in starts changing. Doors open and close by themselves; water boils on the unlit stove; and an unplugged air conditioner turns the house cold enough to see their breath in. Kasey is changing, too. Her blue eyes go green and she speaks in old-fashioned language, then forgets chunks of time. Most disturbing of all is the dangerous new chip on Kasey’s shoulder. The formerly gentle, doll-loving child is gone, and the new Kasey is angry. Alexis is the only one who can stop her sister — but what if that green-eyed girl isn’t even Kasey anymore?


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It's been a while since I shivered so much from a story. Bad Girls Don't Die is an awesome example of a creepy ghost story. I had such a good time reading it! I was freaking out a bit and I had goosebumps. It got scarier and scarier the nearer we got to the end. Loved it!

Alexis, our MC, was totally awesome. I respected her and admired her early on in the story. She was the kind of girl who'd always speak her mind and do what's right. She didn't believe in high school's pretentious cliques and though she didn't have many friends, she was fine with that because at least she was herself. Alexis loved and cared for her family even though she had a hard time showing it. I related to her strength and independence but vulnerability.

Enter Carter who wasn't as in to the story as I previously thought so at the beginning of the book. Carter looked like the perfect package. He had secrets though. He also had an inner vulnerability that I wasn't expecting. His character was so sweet and for once, I actually understand why he and Alexis had a little romance (and I fully encouraged it)!

Next awesome character is Megan. Megan seemed like your typical cheer captain but she wasn't. Her family was nothing like you'd expect. She had a very painful background and she wasn't as perfect as you'd expect. I love that about the cast here. All of them have issues that hurt. They all are strong in different ways though. While I can't say the story is without stereotypical characters, I can say they were written in a way that I didn't mind. I talked about the characters a lot in this review because I really liked them.

Now to the plot... The beginning isn't visibly creepy but there are important events. The further in you delve, the more secrets and the higher the stakes. There are ghosts here and possession but it's written in an original and spooky way. I did guess some of the twists but that's because I watch Supernatural all the time so I've seen my share of ghost stories. That doesn't make them any less enjoyable though. Bad Girls Don't Die is also incredibly readable. I was at 200 pages in what felt like an hour of reading.

So overall, if you want a frightening read, this book is for you. It also has surprisingly strong characters too and is in no way the story I thought it would be. I can't wait for more! 4.5 stars,

**** & 1/2 *

Review: Allegiance

Author: Cayla Kluver
Pages: 490
Publisher: HarlequinTeen
Source: Netgalley (Thank you!)
Sequel to: Legacy
Synopsis: An eighteen-year-old queen in love with the enemy as their countries pass the point of no return...


 Bound to a man she cannot love, Queen Alera of Hytanica must forget Narian, the young man who holds her heart. For Narian is destined to conquer Hytanica at the behest of his master, the powerful magic-user known as the Overlord. Alera doesn't truly believe Narian will fight against Hytanica-until Cokyrian troops attack with Narian commanding the charge.


 Faced with the greatest betrayal a heart can know, Alera must set aside personal feelings and lead her kingdom through its darkest time. And when all hope, will and courage seem lost, she must find strength and remember that even the blackest night must have a dawn....

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Since getting an ereader for Christmas I've vowed to try e-books and Netgalley. The first book I was approved to read and have read is Allegiance by Cayla Kluver, the sequel to Legacy, which I absolutely adored.

Cayla's series is my guilty pleasure. Once I start a book I can't stop reading it. The magic, the world, the danger... It's all so enticing for me. I'm not a huge fantasy fan but Alera's world is one of my favorites to visit.

At almost 500 pages the book feels very complete. There is a certain story being told and it ends at the end of the book. You can tell however, that the overall storyline is not over. I never found that the story dragged. While every page wasn't filled with main events, I loved reading about every aspect of Hytanica and Alera's bickers with Steldor or her struggles with learning how to be Queen. Little by little the plot picked up until the satisfying end.

I like Cayla's writing style a lot. I felt like it's detailed without being boring and the writing is fun for me to read since it reflects Alera's upbringing. The words aren't always those of casual and everyday use so I found that fun. It's great voice.

The story itself has a bit of everything and it works. There's romance for the romance fans, war for the action fans, mystery for the mystery fans, and etc. There are definite themes I get from the writing (sexism is one of them) and I'm curious to see how Cayla will wrap it up.

Now on to my favorite part of the story: the characters. One of my English teachers once said that to love a book, you must love the characters. This has been true for every series I've ever adored.

This series has some of the most well developed characters I've ever read. Every character has a different side to them and they all felt so real. I need that in a story to get credibility, but this was something else. It feels like Cayla has this brilliant ability to see characters as people and so she writes all the layers of them.

Alera, for example, is our protagonist. She's different from the other girls in Hytanica. She's a bit more independent, a bit more stubborn. But she's NOT a warrior queen. She's not as independent or as resourceful as she could be. She lets people protect her. Though her character desires true equality of genders, she never really does much about it. This would be infuriating except for the fact that it's more real for Alera to desire something like that but not know what it means in a society where men are dominant, than to be some crazy warrior queen. She's taking steps and maturing. She makes rash decisions, but there are also moments where she shows true strength. I'm not sure if I've explained this well but the complexity is one of my favorite things about this book. Every character has it.

All the good stuff being considered, there is one thing I don't like and that is entirely up to my personal preferences. There is a love triangle and I don't think it feels clichéd here since it's needed for the plot. My issue is that I'm supporting the guy that's going to lose. Well, I assume by reading Allegiance he will lose. There's still hope, right? Anyway, that makes me sad because I really like this character, and his growth. He's definitely not perfect but I can see him being a good match for Alera if he got the chance. This isn't really a complaint against the book, it's more something I wish would happen. At the same time it does factor into how much I enjoyed Allegiance. I'm not going to hate the series now or never read the sequel, it's just my one little nitpicky complaint.

All in all, I like this series a lot. Allegiance caters to all my tastes and it's a real page turner. I liked it even better than Legacy and I'm going to be sad to read the end of this series. It's very hard to review Allegiance since there's so much in it, but I'll end off with just encouraging readers to give the series a try. 4.5 stars,

**** & 1/2 *

Review: Invincible Summer

Author: Hannah Moskowitz
Pages: 269
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Source: Library
Cover Thoughts: What a deceptive cover. It makes you think it's a light, fluffy beach read... but it's so much more.
Synopsis: Noah’s happier than I’ve seen him in months. So I’d be an awful brother to get in the way of that. It’s not like I have some relationship with Melinda. It was just a kiss. Am I going to ruin Noah’s happiness because of a kiss? 


 Across four sun-kissed, drama-drenched summers at his family’s beach house, Chase is falling in love, falling in lust, and trying to keep his life from falling apart. But some girls are addictive.... 


Not your typical beach read.


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I'm so shocked after reading Invincible Summer. It blew my mind. Here I was for some reason expecting a light romance that was tons of fun but the book was actually very emotional. I loved that even more!

Chase is this great character who loves his summers. Everything important in his life happens in the summer. But life is starting to change and Chase is wondering how he can keep his family together. I understood Chase so well. He was a deep character. On the outside he seems to not want to grow up and on the inside... Well I'll let the readers discover that. Over the course of the summers, Chase changed and I was fascinated watching that. He's a unique character. His protectiveness for his family is sweet and I'm so glad there are characters like him who aren't clichés.

My favourite part of Invincible Summer was the interactions of Chase's large family. Each member was so different and they each got different personalities. They dealt with their problems differently but in the end they all loved each other. It was such a true portrayal of the chaos of family, especially when you have five children.

The plot surprised me a lot. There was much more depth in Invincible Summer than I expected. Some parts had me giggling and others had me tearful. There were some huge twists that I never would have guessed. I was shocked when I read of those, but it worked for the story. The conclusion was fragile but satisfying. It made me want to do a slow reread of the book again.

All in all, I loved this book. I loved the characters, the family dynamics, and the story. 4.5 stars,

**** & 1/2 *

Review: The Running Dream

Author: Wendelin Van Draanen
Pages: 332
Publisher: Knopf
Source: Library
Synopsis: Jessica thinks her life is over when she loses a leg in a car accident. She's not comforted by the news that she'll be able to walk with the help of a prosthetic leg. Who cares about walking when you live to run? 


 As she struggles to cope with crutches and a first cyborg-like prosthetic, Jessica feels oddly both in the spotlight and invisible. People who don't know what to say, act like she's not there. Which she could handle better if she weren't now keenly aware that she'd done the same thing herself to a girl with CP named Rosa. A girl who is going to tutor her through all the math she's missed. A girl who sees right into the heart of her. 


 With the support of family, friends, a coach, and her track teammates, Jessica may actually be able to run again. But that's not enough for her now. She doesn't just want to cross finish lines herself—she wants to take Rosa with her.


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The Running Dream is an incredible, inspirational read. My first thought after the initial shock of awesome I got after finishing the book was why haven't more people read this book? I haven't seen it getting the attention it deserves.

After one of the best points in Jessica's life, the future looks good until tragedy strikes and Jessica loses a limb. Jessica is a runner so losing one her feet is like a musician losing their sense of sound. It's plain awful. I felt for Jessica as she tried to come to terms with what was happening. Her emotions and feelings were so real. There were times where she was acting angrily towards other people and I understood that completely. Jessica's reaction were so true that I instantly loved and supported her character. Her journey was a great one.

It wasn't just Jessica's character that was awesome though. Every single character had depth and made me smile in a way. Her mom, her best friend, her sister, her dad, they all were real relationships that I couldn't help but read about.

The Running Dream was split up into 5 parts. Inside the parts there were chapters that ranged from one page to seven or eight pages. I loved this format because the prose was so powerful and raw. The writing was engaging and conveyed the emotion so beautifully. I never looked at the page count because I was so invested in the story I didn't even care about the pages.

The story itself is the kind of story that first makes you appreciate what you have and second make you want to do something important. Anything. Jessica succeeded but with the help of her friends and family, and community. They stood by her and it was just moving to see all they did. I know this happens every day though. People lose limbs, get disabilities or gain them early on. These people are fighters. Survivors. They have my eternal admiration.

Overall I'm very happy with this book. Wendelin Van Draanen has written an enchanting and powerful story so I recommend you read it. 4.5 stars.

**** & 1/2 *

Review: Starcrossed

Author: Josephine Angelini
Pages: 487
Publisher: HarperTeen
Source: Library
Challenge: Debut Author Challenge
Synopsis: How do you defy destiny? 


 Helen Hamilton has spent her entire sixteen years trying to hide how different she is—no easy task on an island as small and sheltered as Nantucket. And it's getting harder. Nightmares of a desperate desert journey have Helen waking parched, only to find her sheets damaged by dirt and dust. At school she's haunted by hallucinations of three women weeping tears of blood . . . and when Helen first crosses paths with Lucas Delos, she has no way of knowing they're destined to play the leading roles in a tragedy the Fates insist on repeating throughout history. 


 As Helen unlocks the secrets of her ancestry, she realizes that some myths are more than just legend. But even demigod powers might not be enough to defy the forces that are both drawing her and Lucas together—and trying to tear them apart.


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Starcrossed was a fun, great read! Wow it really sped up in the end. There were so many twists and new characters that I can't wait to see what happens next.

The story is written mostly about Helen but some chapters it alternates to other characters so we can better understand what's happening. Helen was an awkward girl, always hiding because she didn't want to stand out. She was different but she didn't want anyone to notice. Different in what sense Helen doesn't discover until she tries to kill one of the new hot boys in school, Lucas Delos. She has this hatred for him that she can't understand. Way to begin a romance, eh?

Helen has never hated someone like Lucas and it's driving her insane. I have to say this was such a cool idea. Hate turning into love isn't a new idea but the way it was done was new. Helen was so shocked with her behaviour I felt awful for her. Poor girl. She thought she was going insane. Whatever the case, I really liked Helen and her friend Claire (who's way too awesome of a character).

Helen and Lucas's love is troubled and unfair. They can't be together for so many reasons that I hated the world on their behalf. I love Lucas who was a genuinely good guy from the moment Helen met him. (Yeah, I was convinced at that scene.) The romance was angst-ridden (I want her but no, I can't be with her!) for a reason. Forbidden love is just the beginning. Despite all that I still have hope for our star-crossed lovers.

Now, on to the best part of the book, the mythology. Greek in a totally new way. Have I ever said how much I love Greek mythology? There's so many family feuds and bloodshed. Josephine Angelini marvelously blended well known mythology with unique ideas to create her own story. The magical aspect appealed to me entirely. Learning about Helen's powers was fun and I was surprised and proud of Helen every moment of it.

Starcrossed was so much fun to read, I'm not even sure about how I felt of the pacing. I loved the length of the book and meeting all the new characters. Helen's life was so entertaining and this series has so major twists that I did not expect. Overall it was really well done and there's so much potential. This book is my kind of book and I can not wait for more. Soon. 4.5 stars,

**** & 1/2 *

Review: Blood Red Road

Author: Moira Young
Pages: 459
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry
Source: Library
Challenge: Debut Author Challenge
Synopsis: Saba has spent her whole life in Silverlake, a dried-up wasteland ravaged by constant sandstorms. The Wrecker civilization has long been destroyed, leaving only landfills for Saba and her family to scavenge from. That's fine by her, as long as her beloved twin brother Lugh is around. But when a monster sandstorm arrives, along with four cloaked horsemen, Saba's world is shattered. Lugh is captured, and Saba embarks on an epic quest to get him back. 


Suddenly thrown into the lawless, ugly reality of the world outside of desolate Silverlake, Saba is lost without Lugh to guide her. So perhaps the most surprising thing of all is what Saba learns about herself: she's a fierce fighter, an unbeatable survivor, and a cunning opponent. And she has the power to take down a corrupt society from the inside. Teamed up with a handsome daredevil named Jack and a gang of girl revolutionaries called the Free Hawks, Saba stages a showdown that will change the course of her own civilization. 


 Blood Red Road has a searing pace, a poetically minimal writing style, violent action, and an epic love story. Moira Young is one of the most promising and startling new voices in teen fiction.


Buy the Book (The Book Depository/Amazon)

Blood Red Road took me by surprise. The book had a unique story with the most captivating characters. Very memorable and I can't wait to read more!

This kind of book, books about quests are usually hit or miss with me. Moira Young's book was a bulls-eye. It was similar to Graceling in the way that it was the same kind of story and as I adored Graceling of course I enjoyed this book too. The world was dystopian but we didn't know too much about it. The story doesn't focus on the world that much, it was more on the characters achieving their goals.

Saba is awesome. She's the kind of character people may not like in real life because she isn't too kind, considerate or sweet. She's very much cruel and will do whatever it takes to survive and save the people she loves. She's not a perfect heroine and I loved that. She was such a great character because she sucked a bit then did something incredible and etc. Her relationships were unique and entertaining. Her character wasn't a cliché and I think of her as a total badass like Katniss, Tris and Katsa.

Now the romantic interest, Jack... *swoon* I think I fell for this guy even before Saba. The reason they met was a bit strange and, okay, they didn't have a normal relationship. That wouldn't suit this couple though. Their romantic tension was insane. Nothing happened until they were both ready. Jack is a really great character though. He's a slippery thief who's arrogant and provocative on the outside but is good on the inside. Yes, there are many guys like that in YA lit but this one still managed to impress me. I think many readers will like Jack. Oh, and no love triangle so that's good!

The other characters were also well fleshed out. There were many of them and they weren't always focused on too much- Saba was very brief in descriptions- but I did get a sense of most them and I loved them. They all had something special and different about them and were so compelling to read about. I can't wait to read more about them.

The way Blood Red Road is written sometimes confused me in the beginning. I hadn't ever realized how important quotation marks were until I read a book that didn't have them all. It was a little confusing because I'd hav to pay attention to exactly what I was reading to figure out if it was dialogue and I reread some parts. I didn't have a problem with this, I thought it was a good reading exercise and after a while I got more comfortable with it.

The plot of Blood Red Road was full of action and originality. Everything I read was interesting and I loved reading of Saba's journey to find Lugh. After adjusting to the dialect I was hooked to the story and it completely pulled me in. While the main story of finding Lugh was good, I found Saba's small changes in character equally interesting.

I'm not going to say much more about Blood Red Road since this is already a pretty heavy review so I'll say it's a great read and great for fans of Graceling. This isn't a typical dystopian book, it has more to offer and I think readers should give it a chance. 4.5 stars,

**** & 1/2 *

Review: Balefire

Author: Cate Tiernan
Pages: 974
Publisher: Speak
Source: Library
Synopsis: The whole Balefire series by Cate Tiernan is now in one edition. After seventeen-year-old Thais Allard loses her widowed father in a tragic car accident, she is forced to leave the only home she's ever known to live with a total stranger in New Orleans. New Orleans greets Thais with many secrets and mysteries, but none as unbelievable as the moment she comes face to face with the impossible — an identical twin, Clio. 


 Thais soon learns that she and the twin she never knew come from a family of witches, that she possesses astonishing powers, and that she, along with Clio, has a key role in Balefire, the coven she was born into. Fiery Clio is less than thrilled to have to share the spotlight, but the twins must learn to combine their powers in order to complete a rite that will transform their lives and the coven forever.

Buy the Book (The Book Depository/Amazon)

Balefire was really an incredible read. It was exactly the kind of book (or series) I had been pining to read and I finished it quickly.

This was the kind of book that once I started, I couldn't stop. I'd say "I'll just read this chapter" and 200 pages later I'd finally stop. The kind of book that just gripped me and made me forget of everything except itself. A real page turner, it was. There was always something happening and I loved the mystery and suspense. The storyline was interesting and complicated. I devoured this book.

What I liked best were the characters. I related so strongly and I loved them all so much. The book was written in alternating point of views so we got to see a little bit of everyone. There was a huge cast of characters from the Treize to Clio's friends and almost every person was unique in their way with a backstory. Almost because there wasn't enough time for everyone to shine. I got attached to these characters who were both good and bad and made surprising choices. Richard and Claire along with the twins were among my favorites. It was fun to read of everyone's relationships.

The magic was very good too! Based on the few other books I've read by the author, Cate Tiernan knows her magic. She made Bonne Magie believable. The magic was complicated and interesting. I loved that the magic had consequences that were scary. Magic wasn't portrayed as something awesome you can always use. It was something awesome that should be used wisely.

My only complaint is that the ending left some loose threads that are pretty much going to drive me crazy. I wouldn't object to another book to close things off even more. Or even a short story. I just want more. ;)

If you love witches and magic, with romance, darkness and danger you'll love Balefire. 4.5 stars,

**** & 1/2 *

Review: Wither

Author: Lauren DeStefano
Pages: 358
Publisher: Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing
Source: Library
Challenge: Debut Author Challenge
Synopsis: What if you knew exactly when you would die?


Thanks to modern science, every human being has become a ticking genetic time bomb — males only live to age twenty-five, and females only live to age twenty. In this bleak landscape, young girls are kidnapped and forced into polygamous marriages to keep the population from dying out.


When sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery is taken by the Gatherers to become a bride, she enters a world of wealth and privilege. Despite her husband Linden's genuine love for her, and a tenuous trust among her sister wives, Rhine has one purpose: to escape — to find her twin brother and go home.


But Rhine has more to contend with than losing her freedom. Linden's eccentric father is bent on finding an antidote to the genetic virus that is getting closer to taking his son, even if it means collecting corpses in order to test his experiments. With the help of Gabriel, a servant Rhine is growing dangerously attracted to, Rhine attempts to break free, in the limited time she has left.


Buy the Book (Amazon)

Wither is an amazing story. It hooks you in so naturally and I could have easily read it in one sitting unintentionally, except that I had to eat breakfast.

Lauren DeStefano writes very very well. There's always detail that's tied in naturally to the plot. She knows how to hook readers in, and her story is very easily explained. Her world was detailed and made a lot of sense, for the most part. There are some parts that don't seem realistic but I trust Lauren DeStefano to give more information in future novels so everything makes more sense. Reading Wither was like stepping into a new world and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

The concept of Wither is very original. Dying at the age of 20 or 25 is horrific. It's like barely living. It gives lots of room for an interesting plot and Lauren's world is unforgettable. Little stuff like parties, House Governors and orphanages paved my view of this strange world. I loved these little touches!

The most important part of Wither is the characters. Sometimes the story is or may seem a bit slow- there aren't that many significant events that happen. That's because during those parts, Rhine is discovering more and more about her new life. This way of telling a story means that Rhine and the other characters need to be amazing and they were.

Every character was very distinct. I feel like I know Cecily, Lindon, Rhine, and Jenna very well. Every character had a backstory. My favorite characters based on complexity were Lindon and Jenna. There is way more to them than meets the eye.

Overall, Wither is really good. You've probably heard it numerous times but I'll say it again. A good, must read. If you haven't read Wither yet, you're in for a treat. 4.5 stars,

**** &1/2 *

Review: Virals

Author: Kathy Reichs
Pages: 448
Publisher: Razorbill
Source: Library
Synopsis: Tory Brennan, niece of acclaimed forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan (of the Bones novels and hit TV show), is the leader of a ragtag band of teenage "sci-philes" who live on a secluded island off the coast of South Carolina. When the group rescues a dog caged for medical testing on a nearby island, they are exposed to an experimental strain of canine parvovirus that changes their lives forever.


As the friends discover their heightened senses and animal-quick reflexes, they must combine their scientific curiosity with their newfound physical gifts to solve a cold-case murder that has suddenly become very hot if they can stay alive long enough to catch the killer's scent.


Fortunately, they are now more than friends they're a pack. They are Virals.

Buy the Book (Amazon)

Virals is one of the most original books I've ever read! There is so much action, a bit of science, and the typical girl issues.

The first thing I noticed about Virals is the writing style. There's detail but it's matched with wit. There is very clear voice in the writing, and sometimes it's abrupt to prove a point. It makes every word interesting to read.

Tory is a great protagonist. Smart, but pretty. She is strong but has a vulnerable side. She clearly has issues but deals with them and isn't battered and damaged. She's so complicated that she's real. Her friendship with the others makes sense and I like her as a character and person so much that I'd totally be friends with her if she were real. She has crazy fun and slightly dangerous schemes and is a total take charge character. I'm not going to forget about Tory Brennan anytime soon.

One thing that made Virals great were all the details. The plot was very carefully thought of. Little details like various student's religion, Whitney's attitude and the librarian. The idea was original and everything that happened was part of a greater scheme. Some parts were outrageous but given parts from the other story, they made at least a little sense.

My one not really problem but comment was that these students were obviously super smart, so when they talked science and explained things, they talked a bit like textbooks for that one second explaining stuff. I'm pretty young and was completely thrown off by that point. I would have enjoyed better, more teen-ish explanations but since they're apparently geniuses, it may be just me.

Overall, a great read. So much fun and while I wasn't 100% hooked, I do have to admit this is a really cool story. I can totally imagine it as a movie. Definitely something to check out but it's not really a light read. 4.5 stars,

**** & 1/2 *

Review: The Berlin Boxing Club

Author: Robert Sharenow
Pages: 416
Publisher: Harper Collins
Source: Review Copy (Thank you so much!)

Synopsis: Fourteen-year-old Karl Stern has never thought of himself as a Jew. But to the bullies at his school in Naziera Berlin, it doesn't matter that Karl has never set foot in a synagogue or that his family doesn't practice religion. Demoralized by relentless attacks on a heritage he doesn't accept as his own, Karl longs to prove his worth to everyone around him.

So when Max Schmeling, champion boxer and German national hero, makes a deal with Karl's father to give Karl boxing lessons, Karl sees it as the perfect chance to reinvent himself. A skilled cartoonist, Karl has never had an interest in boxing, but as Max becomes the mentor Karl never had, Karl soon finds both his boxing skills and his art flourishing.

But when Nazi violence against Jews escalates, Karl must take on a new role: protector of his family. Karl longs to ask his new mentor for help, but with Max's fame growing, he is forced to associate with Hitler and other Nazi elites, leaving Karl to wonder where his hero's sympathies truly lie. Can Karl balance his dream of boxing greatness with his obligation to keep his family out of harm's way?

Buy the Book (Amazon)

The Berlin Boxing Club was another great story of survival in Nazi Germany. This story was of a boy, Karl who was passionate about both boxing and cartoons.

Karl was a real character. He was a good kid but he wasn't an outward hero. He wasn't an active rebel either, he just wanted to live his life in peace. Early on, Karl made questionable decisions that I wasn't happy with. In fact, it made me wonder how much courage Karl really had. Karl did progress as the story went on, but that theme of courage/cowardice remained. In the end, the fact that Karl made mistakes that he felt ashamed of early on and made redeeming decisions in the end made him a fantastic character.

As I said there was a strong theme of courage and cowardice. All of the characters in this story displayed both. I was angry at specific characters for acting a certain way but I have no right to be. These people were pushed to their limits. They were trapped and everything they did was for one goal- survival. It was rare to find someone who ignored the survival instinct and instead focued on compassion but when those people did turn up, they were the heroes.

The Berlin Boxing Club is another book that has the readability factor. I couldn't help wanting to read more of Karl and I was flipping pages quickly devouring the story. There was a fair mention to comics and I loved the little sketches that were between pages and an overall awesome addition to the story. I wasn't ever bored but I often wondered where the story was going and what would happen to the characters. The ending was bittersweet but I liked it.

Ultimately, The Berlin Boxing Club showcases the best and worst of humanity in a time when both were given a chance to shine. It's the story of another fighter and I'd recommend this to anyone who even remotely enjoyed The Book Thief by Markus Zusak among other books. A great read, 4.5 stars,

**** & 1/2 *

Review: The Book Thief

Author: Markus Zusak
Pages: 576
Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf
Source: Library
Synopsis:  It’s just a small story really, about among other things: a girl, some words, an accordionist, some fanatical Germans, a Jewish fist-fighter, and quite a lot of thievery. . . .

Set during World War II in Germany, Markus Zusak’s groundbreaking new novel is the story of Liesel Meminger, a foster girl living outside of Munich. Liesel scratches out a meager existence for herself by stealing when she encounters something she can’t resist–books. With the help of her accordion-playing foster father, she learns to read and shares her stolen books with her neighbors during bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her basement before he is marched to Dachau.

This is an unforgettable story about the ability of books to feed the soul.

Nazi Germany was a terrible time in human history. There was so much death on both sides and in that period, the true natures of humans were shown. There were many heroes, many cowards, and many survivors. The Book Thief is the story of a girl, Liesel, narrated by Death.

This story was original in every way. It explored a different and less seen side of that hard time. Liesel wasn't a Jew, but she was a strong girl who understood what was happening was wrong.

Liesel's story is unique and beautiful. She lives with many hardships like the death of close family members but she also finds joy in simple things like books, friends, and the accordion. Her family adores her and she begins to feel the same way easily. It's easy to like Liesel. She's fierce but gentle too. Though none of the story is told directly in her perspective, the reader will connect with her. Liesel isn't always a hero. She makes mistakes and is sometimes very rude but she's a good person at heart.

The plot of the story was like life- there were some parts that were intense and full of action but most of it was Liesel coping. You might have thought it would get dull reading over 500 pages of life but the narration was done with such amazing voice that each page was fun to read.

The end of the story had me in tears (don't worry- I won't spoil it for you!) even if I was expecting a sad ending from the beginning. The story never pretended otherwise. The Book Thief is all about the power of words. How they can affect a life. Hitler did terrible things because he had the power of words to persuade people to do what he wished. He was able to make a whole nation submit to him. That level of power could have been used for good or evil. Liesel also understood the power of words. She calmed and soothed, she saved lives with her words. Reading what her words did is inspirational. It makes me look at books in a whole new way.

I loved this book. It was a pleasure to read and it gave me insight on a harsh time in history. The Book Thief should be read by everyone because it has such a powerful message and a cast of lovable, 3D characters. A definite must read, 4.5 stars,

****  1/2 *

Review: Out for Blood

Author: Alyxandra Harvey
Pages: 304
Publisher: Walker Books for Young Readers
Source: Library
Other Books in the Series:Hearts at Stake (Drake Chronicles, Book 1), Blood Feud (Drake Chronicles)
Synopsis: Hunter Wild is the youngest in a long line of elite vampire hunters, a legacy that is both a blessing and a curse at the secret Helios-Ra Academy, where she excels at just about everything. Thanks to her friendship with Kieran Black, Hunter receives a special invitation to attend the coronation of Helena Drake, and for the first time, she sees the difference between vampires that must be hunted and vampires that can become friends-or even more. When students at the academy fall victim to a mysterious illness, Hunter suspects they are under attack from within. She will need someone she can trust to help her save the future of Helios-Ra . . . help that shockingly comes in the form of Quinn Drake, a drop-dead gorgeous vampire. Who said senior year would be easy?


Out for Blood: YES!! That was my reaction when I began reading it. I've been in a bit of a reading slump and it seemed like Out for Blood was exactly what I needed to get out of it.

The series keeps getting better and better. I loved reading about Logan and Isabeau but I love reading about Hunter and Quinn even more. Quinn has even made #1 on my list of Drake brothers.

Out for Blood unveiled a whole new part of the Drake world— the Helios- Ra Academy. Hunter has been going there for the last 4 years and the story took place during her senior year. She's a fabulous narrator! Kick-butt but loyal, stubborn, and doesn't listen to rules that don't make sense. Hunter's the kind of gal who will always do the right thing no matter who she has to fight to get there. Reading about her and her friends was a treat. Her world is different from what I guessed and I'm surprised at how much I loved it.

Quinn... *sighs* He's the girl crazy brother. He's always after a girl, or should I say they're always after him. He charms every girl around him but he makes sure not to get into a relationship. Then he meets Hunter and one thing leads to another. Needless to say I thoroughly enjoyed their romance.

The plot of Out for Blood was interesting. It left you guessing a lot and was fun to read. I don't think this installment furthered the overall story near as much as Blood Feud did but this was a fun read. Plus we met some super cool characters that I'm hoping will get an important role in the story.

Overall, I loved reading this. I read it in one sitting and I was hooked. 4.5 stars,

**** & 1/2 *

Review: Darkness Becomes Her

Author: Kelly Keaton
Pages: 288
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Source: Library
Challenge: Debut Author Challenge (book #2)
Synopsis (from Amazon): Ari can’t help feeling lost and alone. With teal eyes and freakish silver hair that can’t be changed or destroyed, Ari has always stood out. And after growing up in foster care, she longs for some understanding of where she came from and who she is.


Her search for answers uncovers just one message from her long dead mother: Run. Ari can sense that someone, or something, is getting closer than they should. But it’s impossible to protect herself when she doesn’t know what she’s running from or why she is being pursued.


She knows only one thing: she must return to her birthplace of New 2, the lush rebuilt city of New Orleans. Upon arriving, she discovers that New 2 is very...different. Here, Ari is seemingly normal. But every creature she encounters, no matter how deadly or horrifying, is afraid of her.
Ari won’t stop until she knows why. But some truths are too haunting, too terrifying, to ever be revealed.

Darkness Becomes Her started with action and ended with even more action. I really really liked this book and I can't wait for the next book in the series.

The story is about Ari who will definitely make my list of favourite heroines. Ari is strong, badass, but she's also vulnerable. She's gone through a lot in foster care with the loss of her mother and all that has made her stronger. She's not the kind of girl who mopes all the time, but she's not cold either. I love her as a character!

The plot of the story is very interesting, a whole new twist to the supernatural. There are strong, lovable characters and you can tell how much Kelly Keaton loves the city of New Orleans. To be honest, I guessed some stuff early on in the story but that's only because I read something and felt this weird need to do research. The story is super fast paced so it's very enjoyable to read.

The one thing that I'm iffy about is how fast the story takes place. Probably what, four days? Ari's attachments and relationships develop awfully fast so I hope in future books it takes a bit more time. While I did enjoy Ari and Sebastian, they're a bit serious for people who've just only met so I'm excited to see where their relationship goes.

Overall, this is a fun, addictive story and I can't wait to read what happens next. I have a feeling that this series might make it into my favourites list. Darkness Becomes Her is perfect for any lover of the supernatural and kick-but girls. 4.5 stars,

****& 1/2 *

Review: Delirium

First of all, aww, 40 followers! I seriously love y'all! ♥

Author: Lauren Oliver
Pages: 448
Publisher: HarperCollins
Source: Library
Synopsis (from Goodreads): Before scientists found the cure, people thought love was a good thing. They didn't understand that once love -- the deliria -- blooms in your blood, there is no escaping its hold. Things are different now. Scientists are able to eradicate love, and the governments demands that all citizens receive the cure upon turning eighteen. Lena Holoway has always looked forward to the day when she’ll be cured. A life without love is a life without pain: safe, measured, predictable, and happy. 

But with ninety-five days left until her treatment, Lena does the unthinkable: She falls in love.
Delirium. Umm... I don't know what to say. This was probably the most hyped up book I've ever read, and I was expecting a lot. Was it a good book? Definitely. Is it the best book I've ever read? Probably not. It is a book I'd recommend to everyone though.

Delirium was about Lena who lives in a society that believes love— also known as amor deliria nervosa— is a disease. And not just any disease. It's one of the worst diseases ever. But don't worry, there's a cure that can be recorded near the 18th birthday of someone. Lena can't wait for the cure. She lives ashamed of the fact that two members of her near family, her mother and her sister, were both infected. All that changes when Lena meets Alex.

Lena's a character I instantly related to. She's hard on the outside because she's had a hard past and she's scared. Lena wants to believe in the easier options and never tries to break the rules, telling herself over an over that the rules are for her own protection. I completely understand that about her. When she meets Alex, it isn't some "Oh, I love you!" at first sight thing where Lena instantly ignores everything she's ever known. Her relationship with Alex is a gradual process. They both aren't perfect characters. They both have their flaws, but they have undeniable chemistry as a couple.

The best thing (to me) about Delirium is the world Lauren Oliver has created. It's complex and real. While the ideas are twisted, there is a truth to them. It makes so much sense and it's a complete world that I can easily imagine. What helps me imagine this world is that before each chapter, there's a short passage ranging from a sentence to a few paragraphs that comes from something written in the world of Delirium. I loved reading the passages and recognizing things and seeing how they were changed.

The plot was paced really well, if not a bit slow in the beginning. It took time for Lena to reach her epiphanies and they were all real and shocking. I was rooting for her the whole time. This wasn't a very predictable story. While I had an idea of what the ending would be like, the process completely blew me away. There were so many scenes that I love, and Delirium is one of the only books I plan to reread someday. (I'm not a fan of rereads.) The end was absolutely shocking and I can't wait to see what happens next to Lena and Alex.

All in all, I really enjoyed Delirium while I was reading it and after I read it I appreciated the story even more. Lena and Alex are special characters that will stay with you forever. Even if this was over 400 pages, it didn't feel like it. 4,5 stars,

****&1/2 *