Review: Rip Tide by Kat Falls

Title: Rip Tide

Author: Kat Falls

Series: Dark Life #2

Publisher: Scholastic

Publication date: January 1st 2013

Format: Paperback | 320 pages

Genre: YA | Science Fiction

Goodreads

Ty has always known that the ocean is a dangerous place. Every time he swims beyond the borders of his family's subsea farm, he's prepared to face all manner of aquatic predators - sharks, squid, killer whales….

But Ty is unprepared for the deadliest dangers of the deep. When he and his Topsider ally, Gemma, make a horrific discovery far below the surface, they begin to unravel a conspiracy that will put them in conflict with outlaws, Seaguard officers, and the savage, trident-wielding surfs - plus creatures unlike any Ty has encountered before.

My thoughts:

I was a big fan of the first book in this series, Dark Life, so I couldn't wait to pick this up. I have to say, I'm a bigger fan of Kat Falls than I was when I finished the first book. I loved it.

 

What I loved most about Dark Life was the world building and the creativity that went into it. I found this to be the case in Rip Tide too, maybe even more so. I absolutely adored the descriptions of the ocean, townships and Rip Tide itself. It was the kind of writing where you can picture everything seamlessly as you read it as if you're watching a film - a really great film at that. So much imagination was put into this book which, in my opinion, made the world it's set in more charming, and the story more enthralling.

 

I also found the characters to be just as well written. I loved Ty just as ever - he really came into his own in this book. Gemma was just as great. I actually thought she had the most depth to her character compared to the last book where Ty was more of the main focus. Ty was still the main star of the story, but I felt that I got to know Gemma a whole lot more in Rip Tide.

 

Overall I found this to be a fantastic read that I finished in no time at all - I only wish it was a lot longer!

 

My rating: 10/10

 

Kat Falls:

Goodreads | Website | Facebook

 

Dark Life:

1. Dark Life
2. Rip Tide

Review: Blood Magic by Tessa Gratton

Title: Blood Magic

Author: Tessa Gratton

Series: The Blood Journals #1

Publisher: Doubleday

Publication date: 26 April 2012

Format: Paperback | 416 pages

Genre: YA | Paranormal

Goodreads

The murder of her parents has left Silla damaged and lost, and Silla's insistence that her father is not to blame only alienates her further from her friends and family. When a mysterious spell book arrives, Silla hopes it will lead to some answers about her parents' killer. In her first attempt at magic, in an old graveyard near her home, Nick, the new boy in town spies on her; he recognizes the magic that Silla is performing as the same magic his mother performed with him, before she went mad.


Before long, Silla and Nick connect, though Nick is unwilling to share his history with blood magic with Silla. When Silla's friends start showing signs of possession, Silla, Nick and Silla's brother, Reese, must contend with a deadly, immortal woman who will stop at nothing to take the book of spells from them.

 

 

My thoughts:

Well this was certainly a lot darker than I expected. Very surprising. 

For those of you who have read quite a few of my reviews, you'll know that I love a dark, atmospheric tone to a story. If it's done right I immediately become completely enthralled - that was definitely the case with this book. I was, at points in the story, a little stunned by the level of horror or, I suppose you could call it, savagery. There were a few gory moments and a lot of blood for obvious reasons, but there was also some slightly disturbing moments where characters go a little crazy in their plight for revenge. So, yeah, surprising for a YA book.

I really liked the characters of Blood Magic. I thought they had a great depth to them, especially in their backstories. Silla was a joy to read about with her personality - this book was partly about Silla discovering who she really is on her own, without the support of her whole family. I loved reading about her finding out her true strengths as well as her weaknesses and how she overcame them. Nick was great in his own way. He was more or less clueless at the beginning of the book and yet by the end, he was pretty much the one holding everyone together in my opinion.

 

What I found a little frustrating with this read was the plot. I felt that it wasn't developed at the right pace for me to get the full level of anticipation I'm used to. Sometimes the plot would progress so quickly that I felt I was missing an entire book, and then other times there would be absolutely nothing happening plot wise and the focus was entirely on the romance side of things. If there was a perfect balance between the magic side of the story, and the romance, I would have considered this one a keeper.

 

Overall I liked this one and I would definitely recommend it. For the most part, it was brilliant to read. Full of action and suspense with an intense romantic relationship to boot!

 

My rating: 7/10

 

Tessa Gratton:

Goodreads | Website | Twitter

Review: If You Find Me by Emily Murdoch

Title: If You Find Me

Author: Emily Murdoch

Publisher: Indigo

Publication date: 02 May 2013

Format: Hardback | 304 pages

Genre: YA | Contemporary

Goodreads

THERE ARE SOME THINGS YOU CAN'T LEAVE BEHIND ... 

A broken-down camper hidden deep in a national forest is the only home fifteen-year-old Carey can remember. The trees keep guard over her threadbare existence, with the one bright spot being Carey's younger sister, Jenessa, who depends on Carey for her very survival. All they have is each other, as their mentally ill mother comes and goes with greater frequency. Until that one fateful day their mother disappears for good, and the girls are found by their father, a stranger, and taken to re-enter the "normal" life of school, clothes and boys. 

Now, Carey must come to terms with the truth of why their mother spirited them away ten years ago, while haunted by a past that won't let her go ... a dark past that hides many a secret, including the reason Jenessa hasn't spoken a word in over a year. Carey knows she must keep her sister close, and her secrets even closer, or risk watching her new life come crashing down.

 

 

My thoughts:

Before I say anything, I have to first mention that I loved this book and you should definitely go and buy this one because it's a keeper. From the very first line I was completely drawn into the story - I couldn't put this book down for the life of me. This book immediately came across as one that would be full of endearing characters and emotional moments.

There are quite a few disturbing moments in this read but it was definitely necessary and it wasn't in so much detail to make me too uncomfortable reading it. But sometimes, this story was painfully intense. I worried so much about what was going to happen to the characters and whether they would get through the hard times they were going through and the traumatic events they had already experienced.

Honestly, this book was non stop feels for me. I wanted to cry from the beginning and I finally let the tears fall at the end of the story. Yeah, you'll probably need some tissues handy. You always know you've read a good story when it plays on your mind for ages after.

Besides the overpowering emotions at points, Emily's writing is something to look out for in the future. It was amazing. I always describe writing like this as if it's a film playing through my head. The descriptions are detailed in the best way, I can picture all of the settings perfectly and the characters are just brought to life with the way Emily created and developed them. Fabulous characters guys, you'll fall in love with all of them.

Most of all, I loved that this read was relatable to everybody in some way or another. It's about real life issues - some more extreme than others, but there's going to be an issue tackled in this book that you can relate to, trust me. It really makes you think.

My rating: 10/10

Emily Murdoch:

Goodreads | Blog | Twitter

Review: Miss Me Not by Tiffany King

Title: Miss Me Not

Author: Tiffany King

Publication date: Nov 22 2012

Format: Kindle

Genre: YA | Contemporary

Goodreads

Madison Hanson's past demons have given her a shadow of an existence with little hope. With the sudden tragic death of a fellow student, Madison questions her own life choices, and is now forced to evaluate everything she thought she believed in. When fate intervenes and partners her with Dean Jackson, a popular "all around good guy" from school, Madison gets a glimpse of a life that is filled with sunshine that has the power to break through the darkness she has cloaked herself in. 
With Dean's help, Madison discovers a desire to finally step out of the shadows, and embrace life and all its gifts.

 

 

My thoughts:

I found myself surprised by actually liking this read. For some reason, I think I started reading this book without any great expectations. It wasn't the best read ever, most definitely not one to be put on my favourites shelf, but I liked it.

 

One thing I loved was that it took me no time at all to start liking Madison as the main character. I didn't find her initial attitude at all off putting, even though her thoughts on suicide were a little disturbing from a reader's point of view. I think it was mainly because I immediately understood where the author was going with the points Madison was making. So Madison as a whole was a pretty good character.

 

I also liked Dean. Madison and Dean really made the perfect combination. He was basically everything she wasn't - she needed him, but Madison also played a part and helped him, just in a different light. I liked Dean for his personality - he wasn't too pushy, but at the same time, he wasn't afraid to cross the line with Madison sometimes and go a bit further than she wanted, just to give her that little more of a nudge forward.

 

The only problem I had was that things didn't progress at the right pace in my eyes. Madison's relationship with Dean moved way too fast for the problems Madison had. It made me feel that Madison's issues weren't actually a big deal because her relationship took over. I didn't like that vibe. 

 

The other side to that problem was that Madison completely forgot about her best friend James. I understand that it was crucial to the story, but it just led to me not caring about what happened to James one way or another. He just didn't play a big enough part in the story.

 

Overall this was a quick afternoon read that i think a lot of people will like. 

 

My rating: 6/10

 

Tiffany King:

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Review: Shadows by Ilsa J. Bick

Title: Shadows

Author: Ilsa J. Bick

Series: Ashes Trilogy #2

Publisher: Quercus

Publication date: 27th September 2012

Format: Paperback | 518 pages

Genre: Horror | YA | Zombies

Goodreads

Alex and Tom, un-Changed, face unthinkable horror in their desperate struggle to find each other.

But the biggest terror of all is the monster within. Because no one yet knows which young people Change, or why.

And no one knows who will be next…

My thoughts:

Wow. This book is intense!

I pretty much went into this read with an open mind and no expectations. It wasn't anything to do with the first book in the trilogy, I just hadn't had the best of luck with the books I'd read beforehand. Of course, that meant that pretty much anything would have impressed me at that point. But this book really did blow me away.

The first thing that surprised me was that it's totally different to the first book. It has a completely different layout with different characters and their point of views. The writing gave off a different vibe and the action was just ongoing throughout the entire book. I've seriously never read a book with that much action. Not ever. 

The plot was great. It was so exciting the whole way through and it had me biting my nails at points. This author definitely loves teasing her readers with little cliffhangers at the end of chapters - sometimes they would drive me crazy (in a good way) but it would only get me reading faster. I loved how high the levels of suspense got in various points of the story. Definitely the polar opposite to a dull read.

There were a lot of new characters introduced which made me a little apprehensive. The main problem, or honestly, the thing I'm not sure about, is the fact that at times I felt like the focus was being taken away from Tom, Alex and Ellie. Ellie basically disappeared and even though there's a reason for that, I felt that the new characters took too much of the focus. I really liked getting to know the new characters and I'm so anxious to find out what happened to them, but I definitely wanted more of Alex especially.

Overall I thought this was a fantastic read. Ilsa did what any author should do when it comes to a sequel, she kicked it up a notch, making this one brilliant book.

My rating: 8/10

Ilsa J. Bick:

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter

Ashes trilogy:

1. Ashes (review)
2. Shadows
3. Monsters - published Sep 2013

Review: Noble Conflict by Malorie Blackman

Title: Noble Conflict

Author: Malorie Blackman

Publisher: Doubleday

Publication date: 6 Jun 2013

Format: Hardback | 374 pages

Genre: YA | Dystopian

Goodreads

Years after a violent war destroyed much of the world, Kaspar has grown up in a society based on peace and harmony. But beyond the city walls, a vicious band of rebels are plotting to tear this peace apart. It is up to the Guardians - an elite peacekeeping force - to protect the city, without ever resorting to the brutal methods of their enemy.

When Kaspar joins the Guardians, he has a chance encounter with a rebel - a beautiful girl named Rhea. Haunted from that moment on by strange visions and memories - memories that could only belong to Rhea - he realises he hasn't been told the truth about what the rebels really want, and what he's really fighting for.

 

 

My thoughts:

I'm a huge fan of Noughts & Crosses so when this book came out, I picked it up straight away. My immediate concern though, was that I would compare it to Noughts & Crosses and be disappointed because honestly that book was amazing.Although I did compare it to Malorie's previous books, this one really stood out on its own. It wasn't so different to any of the other books but it definitely came across in a different light.

 

What I didn't like about this read most of all was that it wasn't up to par with Malorie's previous books in terms of the shock factor. I loved, loved, loved the fact that Malorie never failed to make me gasp in shock. I never predicted what was going to happen and what did happen was always something that would have never crossed my mind. There wasn't any of that with this book. It wasn't as intense and when things eventually started to get going, I didn't really feel connected to the characters enough to really care either way. 

 

I also pretty much hated the ending. To me, it was one of those endings that feels completely unresolved in all aspects. I understand that it leaves a reader to use their imagination, but I don't feel that Malorie pulled it off in that regard. 

 

That being said, Noble Conflict still had a lot to offer. There was action right from the beginning so I had no problem turning the pages. The plot was captivating and I didn't see what was coming until it did.

 

Overall I found this read pretty much okay. It had its issues but it also had some gripping, tense moments that I enjoyed. 

 

My rating: 5/10

 

Malorie Blackman:

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter 

Teaser Tuesday #52

 

 

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

This week I'm reading Shadows by Ilsa J. Bick.

 

 

'I don't know about that!' Weller shouted. There was a high crack that was not a bullet but the sound of wood shattering, and then Luke was screaming something about trees breaking and Weller was shouting: 'You hear that, you hear that? You're gonna kill this boy and yourself for nothing!'

page 484

Review: Tempest's Fury by Nicole Peeler

Title: Tempest's Fury

Author: Nicole Peeler

Series: Jane True #5

Publisher: Orbit

Publication date: 05 Jul 2012

Format: Paperback | 352 pages

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Goodreads

Supernatural halfling Jane True is not happy. She's been packed off to England to fight a war when she's much rather be getting busy with her boyfriend Anyan. Unfortunately, Jane's enemies have been stirring up some major trouble and attracting a lot of attention - making it rather tricky for Jane and Anyan to get any alone time.

Catapulted into the role of Most Unlikely Hero Ever, Jane must lead the supernatural races in a desperate battle to combat an ancient evil. But she'll also have to fight her own insecurities, as well as the doubts of those who don't think she can live up to her new role as Champion - the most powerful supernatural leader of all…

My thoughts:

Wow I did not expect an ending like that. It's going to drive me crazy until I can get my hands on the last book.

As usual, I loved this book. I love everything about the Jane True series - the characters, the story lines, the writing and most of all the ability Nicole has to inject humour into any situation. 

What was different about this one was Jane herself. She has so many burdens to bear and she really took it like a champ. I adore books/series where there is clear development in the characters in some way or another. Jane, since the beginning of the series, has gone from not knowing anything about supernatural creatures apart from being the stuff of fairytales, to realising she is one, to being part of a huge war that could change everything as she knows it. She's slowly coming into her own whilst still being true to who she was at the start.

The plot was also great. There was an abundance of suspense with the idea that everything is at stake no matter who the character. Jane's usual enemies played a huge part with the added bonus of demons coming into play and the prospect of world annihilation. 

Honestly, I kind of regret reading this without having the last book already on the shelf.

My rating: 10/10

Nicole Peeler:

Goodreads | Website | Twitter | Facebook

 

Books in the series:

1. Tempest Rising
2. Tracking the Tempest
3. Tempest's Legacy
4. Eye of the Tempest
5. Tempest's Fury
6. Tempest Reborn

Review: Poison Princess by Kresley Cole

Title: Poison Princess

Author: Kresley Cole

Series: The Arcana Chronicles #1

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Publication date: October 2012

Format: ebook

Genre: YA | Paranormal

Goodreads

Evangeline “Evie” Greene, 16, leads a charmed life until her horrifying hallucinations predict a disaster that decimates her Louisiana hometown. She joins classmate Jack - with his mile-long rap sheet, wicked grin, bad attitude - and 22 other teens, as an ancient prophesy re-enacts the ultimate battle between good and evil. But who is on which side?

My thoughts:

I did not expect this read to be as intense as it was.

At first I felt out of the loop a little with the way the story is set out. There was so much going on I struggled to place all of it on a timeline - it's not exactly set in chronological order and for so much happening, it was really confusing at first. I stuck with it though and it soon cleared itself up.

This was my first book by Kresley Cole and honestly, I can't wait to read more of her books. I thought her style of writing was really captivating. I didn't want to put this read down because the suspense was killing me which I chalk up to the writing.

The characters though, they were something else entirely. I loved how different Evie and Jack were - complete opposite ends of the spectrum and it worked all the better for them in my opinion. Evie was so vulnerable at first, even before the post-apocalyptic aspect of the story. Jack was already so strong and sure of himself so they made the perfect team. And eventually more characters were introduced, each with a different part to play and something new to bring to the book. Matthew was sweet, Selena a little too sassy and Finneas was hilarious.

As for the plot, it was certainly something new and different. I loved the idea of the Arcana - I won't go into it for fear of spoilers - it was most definitely original. The read was also surprisingly creepy. I wasn't expecting there to be quite so much gore and insane people who want to eat you.

Overall I really enjoyed reading this one. I can't wait until October for the next book in the series - I'm dying to know where this is going.

My rating: 9/10

Kresley Cole:

Goodreads | Twitter | Website | Facebook

Review: Eye of the Tempest by Nicole Peeler

Title: Eye of the Tempest

Author: Nicole Peeler

Series: Jane True #4

Publisher: Orbit

Publication date: 06 Oct 2011

Format: Paperback | 352 pages

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Goodreads

 

Nothing says "home" like being attacked by humans with very large guns, as Jane and Anyan discover when they arrive in Rockabill. These are professionals, brought into kill, and they bring Anyan down before either Jane or the barghest can react. Seeing Anyan fall awakens a terrible power within Jane, and she nearly destroys herself taking out their attackers. 

Jane wakes, weeks later, to discover that she's not the only thing that's been stirring. Something underneath Rockabill is coming to life: something ancient, something powerful, and something that just might destroy the world. 

Jane and her friends must act, striking out on a quest that only Jane can finish. For whatever lurks beneath the Old Sow must be stopped...and Jane's just the halfling for the job.

My thoughts:

I adore the Jane True series. I just can't get enough.

What I love most about them is that they are chocked full of humour. I seriously feel there isn't enough humour in books and there can never be enough.

 

I thoroughly enjoyed reading the point of view of such a quirky character. Jane constantly makes me laugh, but she is also pretty vulnerable at times. She doubts herself and counts on people around her for some things. She really is starting to come into her own the further I get in the series though - she seems to be giving advice and orders more than taking it, at least more than she did in the first few books.

 

I thought the plot wasn't as good as the previous books. It felt a lot like the book was just filling in gaps in the bigger plot between books. It was definitely interesting and I loved the idea of it, but it wasn't as exciting that's all.

 

All of the characters were amazing. I loved getting to know Blondie better, she was a really mysterious, captivating character. Anyan was just beyond yummy and the rest of the supporting characters were really well written and well rounded.

 

Overall I really loved this read. I really recommend this whole series, especially to fans of urban fantasy, you really do need to pick these books up and give them a try.

 

My rating: 9/10

 

Nicole Peeler:

Goodreads | Website | Twitter | Facebook

 

Books in the series:

1. Tempest Rising
2. Tracking the Tempest
3. Tempest's Legacy
4. Eye of the Tempest
5. Tempest's Fury
6. Tempest Reborn

 

Review: Velveteen by Daniel Marks

Title: Velveteen 

Author: Daniel Marks

Publisher: Delacorte Press

Publication date: Oct 9th 2012

Format: Hardcover | 464 pages

Genre: YA | Paranormal

Goodreads

Velveteen Monroe is dead. At 16, she was kidnapped and murdered by a madman named Bonesaw. But that’s not the problem.

The problem is she landed in purgatory. And while it’s not a fiery inferno, it’s certainly no heaven. It’s grey, ashen, and crumbling more and more by the day, and everyone has a job to do. Which doesn’t leave Velveteen much time to do anything about what’s really on her mind.

Bonesaw.

Velveteen aches to deliver the bloody punishment her killer deserves. And she’s figured out just how to do it. She’ll haunt him for the rest of his days.

It’ll be brutal... and awesome.

But crossing the divide between the living and the dead has devastating consequences. Velveteen’s obsessive haunting cracks the foundations of purgatory and jeopardises her very soul. A risk she’s willing to take—except fate has just given her reason to stick around: an unreasonably hot and completely off-limits coworker.

Velveteen can’t help herself when it comes to breaking rules... or getting revenge. And she just might be angry enough to take everyone down with her.

 

 

My thoughts:

This isn't going to be a good review, unfortunately, since I really didn't like this read.

This book became a chore for me to read which, of course, is what any reader does not want to happen. I think the biggest problem I had was that I couldn't connect to the author's style of writing. It seemed all over the place to me - I would find myself finishing a page and having to read it over because I didn't take anything in.

 

I also didn't like the main character, Velvet. I get that she was supposed to be a little bitchy but I think it was a little too much since I eventually just got sick of her. 

 

I did, however, like the other characters. I thought Nick was sweet and that the twins were hilarious. Also, I enjoyed how different the settings were and the creepy purgatory aspect to the story. Regrettably though, this wasn't enough to live up to my idea of a good read.

 

Overall, I wouldn't recommend this one. It has its moments, but it wasn't enough for me.

 

My rating: 3/10

 

Daniel Marks:

Goodreads | Twitter | Website | Facebook | YouTube

Review: OCD Love Story by Corey Ann Haydu

Title: OCD Love Story

Author: Corey Ann Haydu

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Publication date: July 2013

Format: ebook

Genre: YA | Contemporary

Goodreads

In this raw and relatable romance, Bea learns that some things just can’t be controlled.When Bea meets Beck, she knows instantly that he’s her kind of crazy. Sweet, strong, kinda-messed-up Beck understands her like no one else can. He makes her feel almost normal. He makes her feel like she could fall in love again.

But despite her feelings for Beck, Bea can’t stop thinking about someone else: a guy who is gorgeous and magnetic…and has no idea Bea even exists. But Bea knows a lot about him. She spends a lot of time watching him. She has a journal full of notes. Some might even say she’s obsessed.

Bea tells herself she’s got it all under control. But this isn’t a choice, it’s a compulsion. The truth is, she’s breaking down…and she might end up breaking her own heart.

My thoughts:

Well this was different to say the least.

I actually surprised myself in how much I enjoyed this read. The first thing any reader will notice is how uncomfortable a read like this can sometimes be. Any time an author uses some sort of issue with mental health as the main focus of a book, there's always a kind of knee jerk reaction of readers to avoid them in some respect. Like the story or the characters are more than likely not going to be understood if the reader isn't going through the same thing or has experienced something similar. Of course, I'm not talking about everybody, but there is an avoidance with books like this before a lot of people want to give it a chance.

With this one, I would understand people finding it a little too much with the main characters inner thoughts being so open and exposed. Bea has a reason for every compulsion she has and she makes it known - obviously, we don't agree with the reasons, but the fact that we read about Bea's reasons mean we can see OCD from a sufferers point of view. For me, that made this read incredibly compelling and not uncomfortable at all.

I enjoyed the plot of this book. It was engaging to read of the characters journey to getting better and the strength and self-discipline it required. Unlike the usual books I read with supernatural creatures falling in love and saving lives or whatever, this book means something. It is real life. It happens, whether it be in the same way or in a different manner.

Overall I enjoyed this read. I found it different and compelling with well-rounded, real and relatable characters. I would really recommend it.

My rating: 7/10

Corey Ann Haydu:

Goodreads | Website | Twitter | Facebook

Review: Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Care

Title: Clockwork Princess

Author: Cassandra Clare

Series: The Infernal Devices #3

Publisher: Walker

Publication date: 19 March 2013

Format: Paperback | 592 pages

Genre: YA | Fantasy

Goodreads

A net of shadows begins to tighten around the Shadowhunters of the London Institute. Mortmain plans to use his Infernal Devices, an army of pitiless automatons, to destroy the Shadowhunters. He needs only one last item to complete his plan: he needs Tessa Gray.

Charlotte Branwell, head of the London Institute, is desperate to find Mortmain before he strikes. But when Mortmain abducts Tessa, the boys who lay equal claim to her heart, Jem and Will, will do anything to save her. For though Tessa and Jem are now engaged, Will is as much in love with her as ever.

As those who love Tessa rally to rescue her from Mortmain’s clutches, Tessa realizes that the only person who can save her is herself. But can a single girl, even one who can command the power of angels, face down an entire army?

Danger and betrayal, secrets and enchantment, and the tangled threads of love and loss intertwine as the Shadowhunters are pushed to the very brink of destruction in the breathtaking conclusion to the Infernal Devices trilogy.

 

 

My thoughts:

I've had to wait a day after reading this book to write a review just to compose myself. I don't think i've ever cried so much…

 

I'm being honest when I say I can't do this book justice in a review. I just can't. It's that good.

 

Cassandra managed to break my heart over and over again. Even when nothing especially bad was happening, even when the moment it supposed to be happy, I was still crying because it's so well written. This book is so emotionally heavy. My heart is so full of emotions right now I don't exactly know what to do with myself. This book is full of feels.

 

Everything was amazing. I don't have any criticisms whatsoever. The plot was amazing, there were so many surprises, lots of action and suspense with so many brilliant characters. That's all there is to it.

 

Please read this book. 

 

My rating: 10/10

 

 

Cassandra Clare:

 

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter

 

 

Books in the series:

 

1. Clockwork Angel
2. Clockwork Prince
3. Clockwork Princess

Review: King Hall by Scarlett Dawn

Title: King Hall

Author: Scarlett Dawn

Publisher: Escape

Publication date: 08/2013

Format: Netgalley

Genre: New Adult | Paranormal

Goodreads

A fresh, meaty, sink-your-teeth-in-and-hold-on-tight new adult fantasy series kicks off with King Hall…
 
King Hall — where the Mysticals go to learn their craft, get their degrees, and transition into adulthood. And where four new Rulers will rise and meet their destinies. 
 
Lily Ruckler is adept at one thing:  survival.  Born a Mystical hybrid, her mere existence is forbidden, but her nightmare is only about to start. Fluke, happenstance, and a deep personal loss finds Lily deeply entrenched with those who would destroy her simply for existing — The Mystical Kings.  Being named future Queen of the Shifters shoves Lily into the spotlight, making her one of the most visible Mysticals in the world. But with risk comes a certain solace — her burgeoning friendships with the other three Prodigies: a wicked Vampire, a wild-child Mage, and a playboy Elemental. Backed by their faith and trust, Lily begins to relax into her new life. 
 
Then chaos erupts as the fragile peace between Commoners and Mysticals is broken, and suddenly Lily realises the greatest threat was never from within, and her fear takes on a new name: the revolution.

My thoughts:

I'm so glad I got to read this…

This was definitely a book I enjoyed reading. It was by no means perfect, but I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. It had a little bit of everything - humour, romance, action and quite a lot of heartbreak. 

The plot was a little different to the average Paranormal Romance which I loved. Humans were the main enemy of the supernatural creatures involved in the story which I haven't come across very often. I also really enjoyed the idea of the main characters being prodigies destined to be the next kings and queens of different supernatural creatures. This book wasn't just about magic, vampires and shifters. It also touched on discrimination in a way, with it being frowned upon for two different supernatural creatures (e.g a vampire and shifter) to have a relationship. It had a few original elements in it which is always a plus for me.

Like I said, it wasn't perfect. Sometimes the writing got a little sloppy and rushed. Also, there were quite a few time jumps in the story which I thought interrupted the pace the story was going at. A little frustrating. However, the story seemed to more than make up for anything I found a little annoying. I just couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen.

I also really loved the characters. There were a couple of characters in the beginning that were only mentioned a few times even though they were supposed to be important to the main character. Eventually, towards the end of the book, they completely disappeared, but I forgot about it after a while.

The main characters though were great. The Kings made me laugh with their means of punishing the prodigies and the prodigies, in turn, made me laugh with the way they interacted with each other at times. There's quite a bit of humour interspersed throughout the story which is another plus for me. 

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will definitely be getting my own copy when it comes out. I seriously can't wait to find out what happens next with that ending.

My rating: 8/10

Scarlett Dawn:

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Review: Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare

Title: Clockwork Prince

Author: Cassandra Clare

Series: The Infernal Devices #2

Publisher: Walker 

Publication date: 03 May 2012

Format: Paperback | 512 pages

Genre: YA | Fantasy

Goodreads

Love and lies can corrupt even the purest heart…

In the magical underworld of Victorian London, Tessa Gray finds her heart drawn more and more to Jem, while her longing for Will, despite his dark moods, continues to unsettle her. But something is changing in Will - the wall he has built around him is crumbling. Could finding the Magister free Will from his secrets and give Tessa the answers to who she is and what she was born to do? As their search for the truth leads the three friends into peril, Tessa's heart is increasingly torn, especially when one of their own betrays them…

My thoughts:

My goodness what a read.

I don't even know what to say in this review that can actually get across how much I love Cassandra Clare's books. There's really nothing like them.

The characters in this book are phenomenal. There's such a variety of different characters that each have a specific role in the plot. They're all loveable and each are so well rounded with incredible backstories and distinct personalities. 

 

 

I have to say from the first book, Clockwork Angel, I loved all of the main characters, but in this one, Will just broke my heart. Especially towards the end, the way he spoke to his family made me cry on more than one occasion - I've never read anything like it.

 

 

The plot wasn't as much action packed as the first book but it felt a little more character based than anything. There was still enough action to get me turning the pages in anticipation - there was so much suspense at one point I noticed I kept holding my breath. 

 

 

Honestly, I can't even get close to doing this read credit in a review. All I can say is if you haven't picked up a book by Cassandra Clare, go do it! You seriously won't regret it.

 

 

But seriously, I think Will broke my heart.

 

 

My rating: 10/10

 

 

 

Cassandra Clare:

 

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Books in the series:

 

1. Clockwork Angel
2. Clockwork Prince
3. Clockwork Princess

Review: Ink by Amanda Sun

Title: Ink

Author: Amanda Sun

Series: Paper Gods #1

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Publication date: July 2013

Format: Netgalley

Genre: YA | Fantasy

Goodreads

On the heels of a family tragedy, the last thing Katie Greene wants to do is move halfway across the world. Stuck with her aunt in Shizuoka, Japan, Katie feels lost. Alone. She doesn’t know the language, she can barely hold a pair of chopsticks, and she can’t seem to get the hang of taking her shoes off whenever she enters a building.

Then there’s gorgeous but aloof Tomohiro, star of the school’s kendo team. How did he really get the scar on his arm? Katie isn’t prepared for the answer. But when she sees the things he draws start moving, there’s no denying the truth: Tomo has a connection to the ancient gods of Japan, and being near Katie is causing his abilities to spiral out of control. If the wrong people notice, they'll both be targets.

Katie never wanted to move to Japan—now she may not make it out of the country alive.

My thoughts:

Well this book certainly took me completely by surprise. For everybody complaining about the lack of originality in the YA genre, you only have to look to this book to satisfy your need for something unique.

What I loved most about this read was the fact that the Japanese mythology and culture aspects of the read were completely new to me. It made the read one of the more compelling ones I've read in a while. I also adored the illustrations spread throughout the book just to add to the idea of one of the character's bringing his drawings to life. Wonderful additions to a reader's experience.

I also warmed immediately to all of the characters. I sympathised with Katie - she felt alone in a new country, speaking a new language and making entirely new friends at a new school. Tomo was a different story but he was the kind of character you only really start to understand towards the end of the book.

One criticism I do have is that I found the book to be incredibly slow going at times. I really wished the characters would just blurt it all out sooner so the plot could move itself along. Even when there was a little action it seemed to be over far too soon for it to be exciting or surprising.

Overall this was definitely one of the more original YA reads I've come across and for that reason I would encourage every fan of YA to give it a go.

My rating: 7/10

 Amanda Sun:

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Review: Kiss of Steel by Bec McMaster

Title: Kiss of Steel

Author: Bec McMaster

Series: London Steampunk #1

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca

Publication date: 09/04/2012

Format: Kindle

Genre: Steampunk | Paranormal Romance

Goodreads

 

When Nowhere is Safe

Most people avoid the dreaded Whitechapel district. For Honoria Todd, it's the last safe haven. But at what price?

Blade is known as the master of the rookeries—no one dares cross him. It's been said he faced down the Echelon's army single–handedly, that ever since being infected by the blood–craving he's been quicker, stronger, and almost immortal.

When Honoria shows up at his door, his tenuous control comes close to snapping. She's so...innocent. He doesn't see her backbone of steel—or that she could be the very salvation he's been seeking.

My thoughts:

After reading Gail Carriger's books I wanted to get my hands on more Steampunk reads. This is the first one I've read since then and, though it was really different and not what I was expecting, I really enjoyed it.

This book really gets you concentrating at the start since McMaster has no problems throwing a reader straight into the deep end. I found it difficult to get used to the terms used at first as well as the different character's names but I soon got the hang of it. I loved that the author showed no fear with the world building and making it as complicated as she liked.

I warmed to all of the characters immediately. There was no question as to whether or not I would end up liking them just from the first few pages. I loved the way they interacted and how distinct all their personalities are. I'm so glad the next books focus on different characters - I'm looking forward to getting to know more about their backstory and get a better understanding of their actions. 

The plot was great too. It did get a little simple at times where I could predict what was going to happen, but for the most part I was surprised at the secrets revealed. There was plenty of action to keep me engaged and the added romance was definitely a bonus! 

Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this read and I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next books in the series. I would definitely recommend it to both fans of Paranormal Romances and Steampunk. 

My rating: 7/10

Bec McMaster:

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Review: Thin Spaces

Title: Thin Spaces

Author: Jody Casella

Publisher: Simon Pulse | Beyond Words

Publication date: September 10th 2013

Format: Kindle | Netgalley

Genre: YA | Paranormal

Goodreads

Ever since the car accident that killed his identical twin brother, Marshall Windsor has been consumed with guilt and crippled by the secrets of that fateful night. He has only one chance to make amends and set things right. He must find a thin space—a mythical point where the barrier between this world and the next is thin enough for a person to step through to the other side.



But when a new girl moves into the neighbourhood, into the exact same house Marsh is sure holds a thin space, she may be the key—or the unraveling of all his secrets.



As they get closer to finding a thin space—and closer to each other—March must decide once and for all how far he’s willing to go to right the wrongs of the living…and the dead.

 

 

My thoughts:

 

 I'm really happy I got to read this one on Netgalley. I haven't read such a captivating book in a while.

 

What I really liked about this book at first was how different it was. The characters really weren't afraid to speak their minds and since they were incredibly well rounded and full of depth to boot, speaking their minds was a great reading experience.

 

I know a lot of people have already said they don't like the narration because of the protagonist Marshall. He was definitely hard work to begin to understand at first but after a while my heart just kept warming to him until my heart almost broke at the end. Marshall was relatable to me. Some people do incredibly weird things when they lose someone so close to them, so from the beginning I kind of took Marshall with a pinch of salt until his reasons behind his odd behaviour became clear. I understood his anger, frustration and self loathing quite a bit before the end of the book, but I guess for some readers, that kind of grief would be hard to read through.

 

So I definitely loved Marshall, he fit the needs of the story perfectly. But I also loved Maddie. She seemed so innocent to me in a strange way. She refused to listen to anybody about Marshall until she got to know him and formed her own opinion about him. I adored the way Maddie started to help Marshall in the simplest ways- just by being patient, giving him space and listening when he finally started spilling secrets. Both Marshall and Maddie seemed to need each other to have some semblance of a normal life.

 

The plot was original which was great. It had a touch of the paranormal genre to it with the idea of thin spaces - rare places where you can step through to the other side and speak to the dead. The story didn't completely revolve around that though which was refreshing - it was more about a journey of acceptance. Marshall and Maddie both sought to go to other side to speak to someone from their past so that they could move forward. Definitely enthralling from the start.

 

Overall this was a great read. Very quick to finish with well rounded characters and a great back story. Definitely recommend it.

 

My rating: 8/10

 

Jody Casella:

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Review: How My Summer Went Up in Flames

Title: How My Summer Went Up in Flames

Author: Jennifer Salvato Doktorski

Publisher: Simon Pulse

Publication date: May 7th 2013

Format: ebook

Genre: YA | Contemporary

Goodreads

First she lost her heart. Then she lost her mind. And now she’s on a road trip to win back her ex. This debut novel’s packed with drama and romance!

Rosie’s always been impulsive. She didn’t intend to set her cheating ex-boyfriend’s car on fire. And she never thought her attempts to make amends could be considered stalking. So when she’s served with a temporary restraining order on the first day of summer vacation, she’s heartbroken—and furious.

To put distance between Rosie and her ex, Rosie’s parents send her on a cross-country road trip with responsible, reliable neighbour Matty and his two friends. Forget freedom of the road, Rosie wants to hitchhike home and win back her ex. But her determination starts to dwindle with each passing mile. Because Rosie’s spark of anger? It may have just ignited a romance with someone new…

My thoughts:

I think this read was probably one of the most charming I've ever come across. I don't usually describe books that way but the characters all had such likeable personalities that I couldn't help but think 'awww,bless' every time they spoke. Apart from one or two that I wasn't supposed to like of course.

I liked this read for what it was. It was funny and it was cute. It was about revenge on a cheating ex, a road trip and figuring out where you want life to take you at the end of high school. That was pretty much it. Apart from the romantic drama and the event that gave the book it's title, there was nothing at all hugely exciting happening but the everyday thoughts and feelings of a girl trying to figure herself out.

My favourite thing about this book is definitely the characters. Rosie was so well rounded - she had this great feistiness to her but she also doubted herself where she needed to. She came to rely on her friends where she didn't before and because they were so great, it made her a better person. Plus, Logan was hot :D

Overall I think this is a great, quick and sometimes hilarious read for the summer.

My rating: 7/10

Jennifer Salvato Doktorski:

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Review: Demonic Dora by Claire Chilton

Title: Demonic Dora

Author: Claire Chilton

Publisher: Ragz Books

Publication date: June 30th 2013

Format: ebook | Netgalley

Genre: Paranormal

Goodreads

SHE'S FINALLY MANAGED TO SUMMON HER FIRST DEMON...

Dora Carridine is trying to summon a demon, but she's not very good at Latin and nothing ever works out the way she plans.

Her life is fraught with weekly exorcisms and having to watch her father’s fire and brimstone TV show every Sunday. So, when Dora finally succeeds in summoning an incompetent demon lord, she’s absolutely delighted when all hell breaks loose.

She thought summoning a sexy demon lord would be the answer to all of her problems, but her problems are only just beginning when her zealot parents try to burn her at the stake, and Dora is left with only one option—to escape and follow her demon straight into Hell.

My thoughts:

I don't really have much to say about this one so it's probably going to end up a really short review.

I can honestly say a lot of people will hate this read. I only started reading it thinking it looked like a lot of fun and to be honest, it was.

There were no complicated plot twists, it was predictable and the writing was about average in my opinion. But it was so funny. I really loved the interaction between Dora and Kieron - sometimes it was so ridiculous I would read over a couple of pages just because it made me smile every time. 

It may not be the best read, but I honestly do recommend this one if you want a good laugh.

My rating: 6/10

Claire Chilton:

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Review: Two-Way Street by Lauren Barnholdt

Title: Two-Way Street

Author: Lauren Barnholdt

Publisher: Simon Pulse

Publication date: June 2007

Format: ebook

Genre: YA | Contemporary | Romance

Goodreads

There are two sides to every breakup.

This is Jordan and Courtney, totally in love. Sure, they were an unlikely high school couple. But they clicked; it worked. They're even going to the same college, and driving cross-country together for orientation.

Then Jordan dumps Courtney -- for a girl he met on the Internet.

It's too late to change plans, so the road trip is on. Courtney's heartbroken, but figures she can tough it out for a few days. La la la -- this is Courtney pretending not to care.

But in a strange twist, Jordan cares. A lot.

Turns out, he's got a secret or two that he's not telling Courtney. And it has everything to do with why they broke up, why they can't get back together, and how, in spite of it all, this couple is destined for each other.

My thoughts:

This is another read that I won't have much to say about since I pretty much found it average. There was a definite mix of things I liked and things I didn't like.

The characters are a great example of what I mean. I loved Jordan. I thought he was really open with his thoughts and feelings, especially when reading from his perspective. I liked how he changed when Courtney came into the picture and how he did his best with what he was given. He was a really relatable character that had both strengths and flaws. However, I had a hard time liking Courtney. Sometimes I felt like I didn't have enough time to and other times I thought she was just all over the place as a character - just when I thought I understood her personality to be a little, shall we say, quiet or a person who keeps to herself, she would do something completely the opposite and start screaming hysterically at someone for nothing especially. I just found it hard to relate to her at times.

 

The thing I really had a hard time with was the plot. The pace wasn't great. It started off really slow and started to speed up as I read on. Eventually it went too quickly for my taste, especially for this kind of book - when I finished the book I was really unhappy with the way things turned out. They didn't seem resolved at all and that really frustrated me.

 

Overall I thought it was okay. It was definitely a quick read and I don't regret picking it up but it's not one to go on my favourites list. Of course it's just my opinion so I would encourage you to give it a go if it sounds like your cup of tea. 

 

My rating: 5/10

 

Lauren Barnholdt:

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Blog Tour and Giveaway: Chameleon by Kelly Oram

Title: Chameleon

Author: Kelly Oram

Series: Supernaturals #1

Publisher: Bluefields

Publication date: June 25th 2013

Format: ebook

Genre: YA | Paranormal

Goodreads

 

For small-town rebel Dani Webber magic and monsters are no more real than the Easter Bunny… until the day she accidentally stops time. Dani quickly discovers that not only do supernaturals exist, but she herself is one of them. This is great news for her life-long best friend Russ, who can finally come clean about his own supernatural status and his undying love for her. Before the two can start to enjoy the long overdue relationship, Dani is taken by a powerful council of supernaturals who believe she is the Chosen One destined to save them from extinction. 

As if being kidnapped and expected to save the world isn’t bad enough, an ancient prophecy warns of the Chosen One’s dark nature: “Only the truest love will keep her an agent for good.” The council believes they know who this “true love” is and, unfortunately, that person isn’t Russ. The mysterious, powerful and devastatingly handsome Seer is the last person Dani wants in her life, but when she starts having visions of a horrific future, she has no one else to turn to for help. 

Soon Dani finds herself torn between two very different boys with two very different opinions of whom she can trust. With the visions getting worse and time running out, Dani is forced to put aside her feelings and work with both the Seer and Russ before an ancient evil is unleashed upon the earth.

My thoughts:

I normally don't go for love triangles. They never seem to work in my favour and a lot of the story is always taken up by who the main character is going to choose as their ultimate love interest. I felt that this one was kind of obvious though so I was in safe waters. 

To get all the bad stuff out of the way I thought this read was a lot longer than it needed to be. Some of the arguments and events going on were repeated a lot, especially when it came to the love interests. It got a little repetitive and therefore, it frustrated me a little. I also didn't like Russ…at all. I thought he was great at first but he became too much after a while. 

Aside from that I really enjoyed the story. I thought it was incredibly fast paced with no dull moments. The plot took no time at all to start moving forward and kept up with the pace. I was always turning pages and struggled to put this down so a definite good sign!

Aside from Russ I loved the characters. I thought Dani was a perfect mix of vulnerable and the strong heroine we all seem to love in books. Gabriel was intriguing to say the least. He definitely played the part of the mysterious character very well. I couldn't wait to find out all I could about him and what his motives were.

Overall I liked the story and enjoyed reading this one. I would recommend it to fans of the paranormal genre if you can handle a love triangle.

My rating: 7/10

You can find out more about this blog tour here.

Kelley Oram:

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