Just as Harper Price starts coming to terms with her role as David Stark’s battle-ready Paladin, protector, and girlfriend—her world goes crazy all over again.

Overwhelmed by his Oracle powers, David flees Pine Grove and starts turning teenage girls into Paladins—and these young ladies seem to think that Harper is the enemy David needs protecting from.  Ordinarily, Harper would be able to fight off any Paladin who comes her way, but her powers have been dwindling since David left town…which means her life is on the line yet again.

New York Times bestselling author Rachel Hawkins brings the fun once again in the finale of this pitch-perfect romantic paranormal comedy series.

Lady Renegades is the spunky finale to Hawkins' inventive Rebel Belle Trilogy. Overall, I found that this series doesn't quite stand out in the sea of books that I've read over the past few years. I feel kind of neutral about this series. I didn't particularly like it, but there's nothing that I especially hate about it either. It's leaning to the more negative side of things if I had to choose, though. 
I'm one of the few that actually doesn't like these books that much. Part of the issue was probably that I went into Lady Renegades with a negative attitude, but I also never was totally in love with this series. I felt eh about Miss Mayhem-- there wasn't much that I actually cared about by the end of it, making it especially hard to make myself even try to get into this book. Luckily for me, Lady Renegades is extremely short. 
If you go back and read my review of Rebel Belle I really liked it. Looking back, it was probably because I hadn't read a lot of other books in the genre at the time. Now there are so many other books that stand taller than the Rebel Belle books in my mind and I just don't really care for any of the characters in the story. Honestly, while reading this I just wanted them all to die or kill each other just to end the story. The conflict, plot and characters were all not very compelling (for me). The only thing that I can say that I actually enjoyed about this book was the ending. I thought it was very clever. That's all I'm going to say about it. 
I'm sorry about how short this review is, I'm also sorry about how negative it is, but that's just how I Feel about this book. I just didn't really like it. I only actually bought and read Lady Renegades because I figured what the heck. I've already read the first two, might as well read the third. 
All in all, I'd have to say I enjoyed Hawkins' other series, Hex Hall, more enjoyable. I just couldn't find myself caring about any of the characters or issues in this book, nor did I actually enjoy any of it (aside from the ending.) 
I'm giving Lady Renegades a 5.5/10 stars. Nothing really stood out for me and I just really didn't enjoy this read. I'd say it was disappointing, but I wasn't expecting much out of it anyway. I usually go into a book with a 6-7 star expectation, and unfortunately, this book didn't even make a 6. Though, it was not totally a 5. I enjoyed the ending enough to give it an extra half of a star. 
Again, sorry for the negativity of this review. But at least I'm being honest, right? Please don't hate me. 
​Anj

Empire of Dust is an action packed novel filled with intrigue, deception and mystery in every page. This book will take you into an ancient world of war and magic. Follow the story of young and ambitious Alexander of Macedon (later called and better known as The Great) as he struggles to become a good leader for his country-- and the numerous problems he comes across on the way to greatness.
Empire of Dust is the second book in Eleanor Herman's wickedly captivating Blood of Gods and Royals Series, which, as mentioned previously, follows Alexander the Great in his teenage years while he is on the path to becoming a legendary leader. Not only does this story follow Alexander, but it also follows other equally as interesting characters including Katerina, Jacob, Hepharstion and more. It is the perfect blend of historical fiction and fantasy.
This part of the review will be spoiler free for Empire of Dust, but may contain spoilers to the first book, Legacy of Kings. I encourage you, reader, if you have yet to read Legacy of Kings, to not continue on in this review. Instead, maybe check out my review of the first book or just pick up Legacy of Kings. It's a good read, especially for those who love stories like Falling Kingdoms, Throne of Glass and Game of Thrones. Even if you don't especially love those stories, I still encourage you to read this if you are into historical fiction or fantasy (or, in my case, both.)
While some sequels fall flat in the shadow of their phenomenal predecessors, Empire of Dust certainly did not. Herman did not disappoint with her follow up to the magnificent Legacy of Kings. Empire of Dust was just as exhilarating and exciting as Legacy of Kings. I found each page to be absolutely captivating. Even with characters I didn't particularly care for (i.e. Cynane and Zofia), I still felt partially invested in their story, especially with how it wove in to the stories of the other characters that I feel more of an affection for.
Kat remains to be my favorite character. I love her fiery spirit and her touch of innocence. Though, I felt like I didn't get to see enough of her in this book! Actually, I just feel like it was too short-- it ended too soon! I seriously just wish this book was a thousand or so pages, that would at least keep me content for a couple of days. Nope, finished this (spectacular) book in a couple of hours and am now stuck in a book mourning period. It's like having a break up with a boyfriend, but worse because it happens much more often.
I did become more invested with Zofia's storyline this book, while I didn't completely love it nor did I particularly care about it, by the end of the book I found that I did not feel totally annoyed by her story. While I still dreaded leaving Macedonia and surrounding areas to read her part, I actually found myself enjoying some aspects of her story.
I would give Empire of Dust 8/10 stars. That's a pretty high rating (see ABOUT page to see my rating scale.) It was a very good book, with a compelling plot and characters to really grow (even more) attached to. If you read Legacy of Kings, I really hope you pick up Empire of Dust as well. It is worth the time and money spent.

Synopsis:

In Macedon, war rises like smoke, forbidden romance blooms and ancient magic tempered with rage threatens to turn an empire to dust

After winning his first battle, Prince Alexander fights to become the ruler his kingdom demands—but the line between leader and tyrant blurs with each new threat.

Meanwhile, Hephaestion, cast aside by Alexander for killing the wrong man, must conceal the devastating secret of a divine prophecy from Katerina even as the two of them are thrust together on a dangerous mission to Egypt.

The warrior, Jacob, determined to forget his first love, vows to eradicate the ancient Blood Magics and believes that royal prisoner Cynane holds the key to Macedon's undoing.

And in chains, the Persian princess Zofia still longs to find the Spirit Eaters, but first must grapple with the secrets of her handsome—and deadly—captor.

New York Times bestselling author Eleanor Herman entwines the real scandals of history with epic fantasy to reimagine the world's most brilliant ruler, Alexander the Great, in the second book of the Blood of Gods and Royals series.


SPOILERS BELOW FOR EMPIRE OF DUST
Personally, I did feel like some aspects of the book felt a little rushed. Especially the relationship between Alex and Heph at the beginning. It was a drastic change from the previous book and sure, while I did understand what had happened between the two, I wish it had been delved into deeper in the beginning of the story. Also I see how the Kadmus + Alex thing sprang up, but I wish I could have spent more time reading about the development of that relationship as well. There were a to of relationships that I was like WHOA this already? Including Zofia and Ochus. I mean, yeah, it was obvious that those two were going to fall for each other eventually, it just felt like that happened all too quickly, along with other relationships as well.
The thing that I wanted to see the most while reading this book was a KAT JACOB reunion. Or at least a KAT JACOB communication, neither of which happened. I just had to settle for those two's thoughts about each other. I really hope in the next book, though they still remain to be on opposite sides of a war, they get some closure (or kissing) which each other. I really ship the two and I LOVED reading about Jacob's recollection of the battle and Kat. And how he kissed her. AH.
While I ship Kat with Jacob, I also ship Kat with Heph. Heph sounds like a dashing and loyal kind of guy. AKA my kind of guy. I couldn't help but be in love with him as well. Like any good character, he's flawed, but that just makes me love the guy even more.
Anyway, thanks for reading, if you have any further thoughts on the book, please feel free to comment below, I'd love to hear them!
Anj

"Haunts and bewitches on every page.... A showstopper." -The Boston Globe 
The Boston Globe's blurb on the front of the book is one that is really quite true. Erin Morgenstern's writing is rather haunting and the ambiance of the book is something that I've never read before. While yes, the writing is haunting, it is also beautiful and slightly poetic. The mood of the story was a very important aspect of the story, which is told by an omniscient narrator. The Night Circus is a story that is unique in its writing and idea. 
It was rather slow going. As other readers of this book have said, it's not a story to be rushed. The book is long and it follows many different characters, which made it difficult to particularly grow attached to any specific character, especially because there was also an omniscient third person narrator. The whole idea of the book is mystery, no one really knows everything that is going on, not even the reader. That, I believe, was one of the issues with the story. While some mystery is good, it made the story very hard to grow attached to. You, the reader, never actually get to know any of the main characters especially well. Which makes it very hard to form an attachment. While I favored some characters over others, I couldn't really relate or grow attached to them because I didn't especially know them. 
I'm rather conflicted over how I feel about this book. On one hand, it's enchanting and made me stay up way too late last night. But on the other, there were so many issues with the story that I can clearly identify. One of the biggest issues, aside from the fact that it wasn't easy to connect with the characters, was that there was no clear plot. I would not describe it as plotless, because there was something going on, but the main focus was certainly not on the plot. The main focus was on the setting and the ambiance of that setting. 
The Circus was certainly a magical place. While the synopsis makes the book sound as if it's a love story between Marcus and Celia, the two magicians, I would beg to differ. I agree with the reviewers that said this was more of a love story between the reader and the circus. The love story between the two characters felt rushed and too slow all at the same time. Like I said, I feel very conflicted over this story. I did enjoy the romance in the story, but it just wasn't all that. I was honestly expecting more. Maybe if we were able to see into the character's minds and more of their thoughts the romance would've felt more real, but instead we're left to see the outside and only a hint of the emotions felt. 
So much of this book felt too fast and too slow at the same time. It takes a very long time to really feel even remotely interesting. No, interesting isn't the right word. It's interesting from the beginning, but invested. It takes a long time to really feel invested in the characters and setting. Notice how I didn't say plot because there wasn't much of one. The ending especially felt too fast, it all felt too rushed and wasn't explained very well. I found I felt rather unsatisfied after finishing the book. 
Earlier I mentioned that the synopsis was misleading with the romance. Another place the synopsis was misleading is where it says "But behind the scenes, a fierce competition is underway: a duel between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who have been trained since childhood expressly for this purpose by their mercurial instructors."
This is not what is happening, which is why I am going to provide a different synopsis for y'all. I was expecting more of a dual. Say Hunger Games with Magic or simply something similar to The Crown's Game by Evelyn Skye. (There are a lot of similarities between the two books, but I'll talk about that later.) That was another factor in my disappointment in the book. I was expecting (and look forward to) a duel of sorts. There is no straight up confrontation. Instead, it's merely 400 pages of just magic-ing things in the Circus with barely any direct contact between the two magic wielders for the first two thirds of the book. I don't want to spoil it, but the competition these two are participating (unwillingly) in is not one that involves a test of strength or power, therefore it is unneeded for a direct confrontation. 
Here's the synopsis: 

The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it, no paper notices plastered on lampposts and billboards. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not. 

Within these nocturnal black-and-white striped tents awaits an utterly unique, a feast for the senses, where one can get lost in a maze of clouds, meander through a lush garden made of ice, stare in wonderment as the tattooed contortionist folds herself into a small glass box, and become deliciously tipsy from the scents of caramel and cinnamon that waft through the air. 

Welcome to Le Cirque des Rêves. 

Beyond the smoke and mirrors, however, a fierce competition is under way--a contest between two young illusionists, Celia and Marco, who have been trained since childhood to compete in a "game" to which they have been irrevocably bound by their mercurial masters. Unbeknownst to the players, this is a game in which only one can be left standing, and the circus is but the stage for a remarkable battle of imagination and will. 

As the circus travels around the world, the feats of magic gain fantastical new heights with every stop. The game is well under way and the lives of all those involved--the eccentric circus owner, the elusive contortionist, the mystical fortune-teller, and a pair of red-headed twins born backstage among them--are swept up in a wake of spells and charms. 

But when Celia discovers that Marco is her adversary, they begin to think of the game not as a competition but as a wonderful collaboration. With no knowledge of how the game must end, they innocently tumble headfirst into love. A deep, passionate, and magical love that makes the lights flicker and the room grow warm whenever they so much as brush hands. 

Their masters still pull the strings, however, and this unforeseen occurrence forces them to intervene with dangerous consequences, leaving the lives of everyone from the performers to the patrons hanging in the balance. 

Both playful and seductive, The Night Circus, Erin Morgenstern's spell-casting debut, is a mesmerizing love story for the ages.

Basically to sum up my conflicting emotions I'll just say this. I liked this book. I didn't love it, but I didn't dislike it. While there were some aspects of it that I didn't particularly love, I still enjoyed being immersed in a world of a magic that I've never seen before in any novels. All in all, I'd give the Night Circus 6.8/10 stars. It's not quite to 7 because of the (many) aspects that I didn't really enjoy about it, but it is almost to 7 because of the uniqueness of the writing and the magic of the story. 
Alright, so this story has a lot of similarities to The Crown's Game by Evelyn Skye. I realize that the Crown's Game was released a while after this book, so it would not be a big surprise if Evelyn took inspiration from the Night Circus. Actually, the reason I bought the Night Circus was that I heard it was like the Crown's Game. Overall, I would have to say that I enjoyed the Crown's Game more, because it had a more direct plot, the characters were easy to grow attached to, and the competition between the two was riveting. (Basically all the main issues I had with the Night Circus.) While I do prefer the Crown's Game, I will say that I did enjoy the Night Circus (even though I spent most of this review complaining about it.) It was very unique and the writing style was quite enchanting. I do not regret reading this magical story. 

Thanks for reading, 
Anj

Immerse yourself in a fantastical world of magic in Susan Dennard's new novel, Truthwitch. A world where magic of all sorts is common. Witches are born with powers ranging from the elements to persuasion to control over another's body. 
Truthwitch starts off with an explosive (literally) beginning as two girls' hijacking of a thief goes horribly wrong. While it can take some time to fully plunge into a world so drastically different from our own, soon enough you'll find yourself fascinated in the political aspects of the story as well as the action that seems to be occurring every few pages. There's not a lot of material in this story that can be classified as 'boring.' 
The characters in the novel are well rounded and rather intriguing in their own way. There are three main characters and one supporting character that stand out. The three main characters are Safiya (I just see if as Sophia with an a), Iseult (no idea how to pronounce this one), and Merik (pretty straightforward). And the supporting character's name is Aeduan. Surprisingly enough, I found that I liked all of these characters. Usually when a novel follows a few characters, there's always one that I especially despise (example: Lucia, Falling Kingdoms). 
Safiya is a truthwitch, which means that she is able to distinguish the truth from a lie. Honestly, I didn't find this power to be that impressive, sure it could be useful, but I'm more interested in the physical powers, I guess. (Such as power over fire or iron) While her power couldn't much protect her on a physical level, Safiya didn't much need it. She is a great protagonist because she doesn't really need anyone to protect her. Definitely not a damsel in distress. Sayifa can fight basically as well as anyone else in this story, she knows her way around a blade. Basically what  I'm saying is if you avoided this book for a while because the idea of a truthwitch was unimpressive to you as well, I'd advise ignoring that and trying it anyway. Truthwitches are incredibly rare in this world, and when one is born, all the seven kingdoms want to be in possession of her/him. Why? Because a twuthwitch's skill is incredibly valuable in political circumstances. Aside from her fighting prowess and her powers, Safiya also has an engaging personality that I can relate with. She's incredibly passionate about what she believes in and will go to great lengths to get what she believes needs to be done done. I appreciated that about her. She also has no issue with annoying other characters, particularly Prince Merik. I really enjoyed how lighthearted Safiya could be in dark situations. She's a confident protagonist, not often feeling much self doubt, which can get her into (many) bad situations. All in all, I loved Safiya as a character. 
Iseult is a Threadwitch. This means that she can 'see the invisible ties that bind and entangle the lives around her.' Like Safiya's power, I didn't find Iseult's power all that interesting in the synopsis. Like Safiya, it seems that Iseult can't very well use her power to protect herself in a physical fight. Also like Safiya, Iseult is a good fighter. She doesn't need a power to protect her. While her power isn't all that useful in a physical fight, I found Iseult's power of being able to read other people's emotions rather interesting. Especially when it came to reading the relationships between people. While I've read ideas and stories where people could see emotions, tell the difference between truths and lies and control elements, I don't think I've ever read a story with an idea similar to a threadwitch. Lately in my reviews you may have noticed I've been complaining a lot about the originality of the stories I've been reading. This story was refreshingly new. I really enjoyed the innovative ideas. 
Iseult and Safiya are connected. They're threadsisters. One small issue I had with this book was that it didn't do well explaining some of the very unfamiliar terms. (cleaved, thread--insert family name here) You just kind of have to make a few assumptions about what is happening. I hope in the books to come that more world building will be a little more clear. Basically what I figured out about the threadfamily was that it's pretty much family, but they don't have to be related. They just become bonded together (and Iseult can see these bonds because she's a threadwitch.) You can have a threadbrother or if you're in a romantic relationship with someone, they can be included in your threadfamily. (I guess that'd be called a threadboyfriend?) Anyway, I loved the connection between these two girls. It was evident that they really did have a deep connection to each other and that they really loved each other. These two knew each other so well that they didn't even have to voice their thoughts, they just knew what the other needed or was thinking. That is friendship goals right there, one of the things that we all strive to achieve in our own relationships. I don't read a lot of books where people have a connection this deep and I really enjoyed reading about Safiya and Iseult's relationship. I'm looking forward to seeing more about it in future books. 
Merik is the prince of a (basically) dying country. He's in desperate need of help from other counties, so he makes a deal to ferry a passenger across the sea. Little does he know how much trouble this passenger can cause, to his country and to his heart. The Prince is a windwitch. I think his powers are pretty self explaining. Like all the other characters in this book, he's very well rounded, having many different sides and realistic emotional reactions. Merik is not very good at controlling his emotions, especially his anger, but he is determined to be a good leader to his people. The next book is called Windwitch, so I'm fairly sure it's going to be more centered around Merik, I'm excited to see more about him. 
Aeduan, I'm not going to tell you what he is, you'll find out soon enough. He's introduced as a slight antagonist, but I never really disliked him. I actually, from the beginning, found his character really fascinating, especially after the first piece of the book with his point of view. While he may seem like he has no morals at first, he clearly does. Aeduan doesn't harm those without weapons and he repays people who have helped him in the past as well as helps those who he may or may not have some degree of affection for. As the story went on, I couldn't help but find myself sympathizing with him, though, I did not want him to complete the mission he was on, I certainly didn't want him to die. I also really ship him with Iseult. Like they may have yet to have a romantic interaction, but I'm willing to bet that it will happen someday. 
On the slight topic of shipping, I just want to say that the main romance that I hinted at earlier is a relationship to really fall in love with and root for. It's not instalove (Thank god), in fact the build up of sexual tension makes the moment that they actually get together all the more satisfying. I am really attached to this romance and I'm sure you will be too. 
As I mentioned before, the ideas in this novel are new and inventive. There are some little cliches woven in, but they merge well with Dennard's ideas. I really enjoyed this book both for the exhilarating and thrilling plot and for the well written characters. 8/10 stars, I was really quite impressed. I'll be waiting impatiently for the next book, Windwitch, to be released in January 2017. (I KNOW. 2017? ARE YOU KIDDING ME? I finished this thinking the next book was already out... I was wrong.) 
Synopsis: 

On a continent ruled by three empires, some are born with a “witchery,” a magical skill that sets them apart from others.

In the Witchlands, there are almost as many types of magic as there are ways to get in trouble—as two desperate young women know all too well.

Safiya is a Truthwitch, able to discern truth from lie. It’s a powerful magic that many would kill to have on their side, especially amongst the nobility to which Safi was born. So Safi must keep her gift hidden, lest she be used as a pawn in the struggle between empires.

Iseult, a Threadwitch, can see the invisible ties that bind and entangle the lives around her—but she cannot see the bonds that touch her own heart. Her unlikely friendship with Safi has taken her from life as an outcast into one of reckless adventure, where she is a cool, wary balance to Safi’s hotheaded impulsiveness.

Safi and Iseult just want to be free to live their own lives, but war is coming to the Witchlands. With the help of the cunning Prince Merik (a Windwitch and ship’s captain) and the hindrance of a Bloodwitch bent on revenge, the friends must fight emperors, princes, and mercenaries alike, who will stop at nothing to get their hands on a Truthwitch.

There are two reasons that I ended up buying this book. Reason 1. Because I've read some love ranting about it. 2. Sarah J. Maas (ONE OF MY FAVORITE AUTHORS)  did the blurb. 
Here's my reason for you to read it: It's a fantastical thrilling new story with kick ass protagonists and lovable relationships. 
Now go on, read it! :)

SPOILERS BELOW FOR TRUTHWITCH 

Was anyone else fangirling (or boying) over that dance between Merik and Safiya? It was amazing, I loved it. I already slightly shipped the two from that fantastic meeting moment when Safi was yelling at him about how to work buttons. Seriously, that moment was great and it still makes me smile just thinking about it. Like I said, I really did fall head over heels for this relationship. I mean really, they met and the first thing they did was yell at each other about buttons. WHAT IS NOT TO LOVE ABOUT THIS? If that's not romantic (haha) I don't know what is. The sexual tension between these two the entire book was fantastic, and that kiss scene was the perfect pay off. I was actually disappointed that Merik didn't seem to realize that it was Safiya's doing that the Empress' empire wanted to trade with him. I want to see his reaction when he realizes it, though, it was almost as good reading Safiya's note to her uncle on the contract. AH. This is my ship and I am willing to sink with it. 
I'm assuming after Windwitch, since there are two more books, (as goodreads says) that the next two will be called Threadwitch and Bloodwitch. Just an assumption there. 
Also, just as an ah ha note before I end this extensive review, I CALLED THAT S AND I WERE THE CAHR AREN (or however you spell it). I mean, it's not that surprising, there was a lot of foreshadowing, but I'm still proud of myself. 
Thanks for reading, if you want anyone to fangirl about this with, contact me. 
​-Anj. 

Yep. It's that time of year again. The time when I share what I consider to be the best books (I read) in 2016. Here we go. (In no particular order after the first) I highly reccomend all these books! (Obviously, because they're on my best reads of 2016 list, meaning I loved these novels)

Taking the top of the list yet again is a Sarah J. Maas Book. Though, suprisingly enough, it's not the next book in the Throne of Glass series this time. It's the second book in the A Court of Mist and Fury books. 
A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J Maas.  (Review Here)
This book is now my favorite book of all time. Yeah, that's how good it is. I gave it a 10/10 stars, and am eagerly awaiting the next book, released in May 2017. This book was on my Loosely 2016 TBR List so yay at more for checking that one off. 
I loved everything about this book (especially Rhys). Highly reccomend the series-- even if you don't like the first book much (A Court of Thorns and Roses) please, please, PLEASE pick up the second. I promise you will (most likely) not regret it. 
Filled with romance, action, suspense, fantastic characters and character development, this is the perfect book (for me). I seriously cannot wait to see how Sarah ends this amazing Trilogy this spring. 
Well, here's the synopsis for book one: 
When nineteen-year-old huntress Feyre kills a wolf in the woods, a beast-like creature arrives to demand retribution for it. Dragged to a treacherous magical land she only knows about from legends, Feyre discovers that her captor is not an animal, but Tamlin—one of the lethal, immortal faeries who once ruled their world.

As she dwells on his estate, her feelings for Tamlin transform from icy hostility into a fiery passion that burns through every lie and warning she's been told about the beautiful, dangerous world of the Fae. But an ancient, wicked shadow grows over the faerie lands, and Feyre must find a way to stop it . . . or doom Tamlin—and his world—forever.

(And containing spoilers to book one) here is the synopsis for book 2: 

Feyre survived Amarantha's clutches to return to the Spring Court—but at a steep cost. Though she now has the powers of the High Fae, her heart remains human, and it can't forget the terrible deeds she performed to save Tamlin's people.

Nor has Feyre forgotten her bargain with Rhysand, High Lord of the feared Night Court. As Feyre navigates its dark web of politics, passion, and dazzling power, a greater evil looms—and she might be key to stopping it. But only if she can harness her harrowing gifts, heal her fractured soul, and decide how she wishes to shape her future—and the future of a world cleaved in two.

With more than a million copies sold of her beloved Throne of Glass series, Sarah J. Maas's masterful storytelling brings this second book in her seductive and action-packed series to new heights.

Now after this the rest of these books are in no particular order-- I love them all. 

Empire of Storms by Sarah J Maas (Review Here)
​Yes, I love Sarah's books and I'm not ashamed of it. This is the 5th book in her Throne of Glass Series (the 4th won my favorite book of 2015). While it didn't quite top A Court of Mist and Fury, this book was still spectacularly well written and intriguing. I highly reccoment the series. 10/10 stars. 
(Also on my 2016 TBR)
Here's the synopsis for the first book: 

After serving out a year of hard labor in the salt mines of Endovier for her crimes, 18-year-old assassin Celaena Sardothien is dragged before the Crown Prince. Prince Dorian offers her her freedom on one condition: she must act as his champion in a competition to find a new royal assassin.

Her opponents are men-thieves and assassins and warriors from across the empire, each sponsored by a member of the king's council. If she beats her opponents in a series of eliminations, she'll serve the kingdom for four years and then be granted her freedom. Celaena finds her training sessions with the captain of the guard, Westfall, challenging and exhilirating. But she's bored stiff by court life. Things get a little more interesting when the prince starts to show interest in her... but it's the gruff Captain Westfall who seems to understand her best.

Then one of the other contestants turns up dead... quickly followed by another. Can Celaena figure out who the killer is before she becomes a victim? As the young assassin investigates, her search leads her to discover a greater destiny than she could possibly have imagined.

Yeah, the first book isn't great, but the series only continues to get better from there on out. 
Synopsis for Empire of Storms (spoilers for previous books): 

The long path to the throne has only just begun for Aelin Galathynius. Loyalties have been broken and bought, friends have been lost and gained, and those who possess magic find themselves at odds with those don't.

As the kingdoms of Erilea fracture around her, enemies must become allies if Aelin is to keep those she loves from falling to the dark forces poised to claim her world. With war looming on all horizons, the only chance for salvation lies in a desperate quest that may mark the end of everything Aelin holds dear.

Aelin's journey from assassin to queen has entranced millions across the globe, and this fifth installment will leave fans breathless. Will Aelin succeed in keeping her world from splintering, or will it all come crashing down?

Another book I quite enjoyed this year is, unsurprisingly, Lady Midnight by Cassandra Clare. (Review Here) While it might not have been as good (in my mind) as its predecessors, Lady Midnight is still an extremely well written and interesting novel, jam packed with action, suspense, mystery and a bit of romance. 
10/10 stars. Great book, I'm quite excited to be getting the next one in March. At least... I think it comes out in March. 

​(checking this one off my 2016 TBR as well) 

Synopsis: 
In a secret world where half-angel warriors are sworn to fight demons, parabatai is a sacred word.

A parabatai is your partner in battle. A parabatai is your best friend. Parabatai can be everything to each other—but they can never fall in love.

Emma Carstairs is a warrior, a Shadowhunter, and the best in her generation. She lives for battle. Shoulder to shoulder with her parabatai, Julian Blackthorn, she patrols the streets of Los Angeles, where vampires party on the Sunset Strip, and faeries—the most powerful of supernatural creatures—teeter on the edge of open war with Shadowhunters. When the bodies of humans and faeries turn up murdered in the same way Emma’s parents were when she was a child, an uneasy alliance is formed. This is Emma’s chance for revenge—and Julian’s chance to get back his brother Mark, who is being held prisoner by the faerie Courts. All Emma, Mark, and Julian have to do is solve the murders within two weeks…and before the murderer targets them.

Their search takes Emma from sea caves full of sorcery to a dark lottery where death is dispensed. And each clue she unravels uncovers more secrets. What has Julian been hiding from her all these years? Why does Shadowhunter Law forbid parabatai to fall in love? Who really killed her parents—and can she bear to know the truth?

The darkly magical world of Shadowhunters has captured the imaginations of millions of readers across the globe. Join the adventure in Lady Midnight, the long-awaited first volume of a new trilogy from Cassandra Clare.

I just read this book, and of course, it made it onto this list. Crystal Storm by Morgan Rhodes. (Review Here) Last year Frozen Tides (Book 4) was on the list, so I doubt Crystal Storm's presence on this list is very suprising. f you have yet to pick up this series, I would have to encourage you to drop whatever you're doing and pick it up. Though the first book wasn't very good, like most fantasty series, it starts to pick up until it's just AMAZING. I think I gave Crystal Storm 8/10 Stars. I absotlutely loved it. Please, please, try this series out. It's decribed as the YA Game of Thrones, which I can see, but even if you don't like Game of Thrones, but love fantasy, I think there's a high chance that you'll really enjoy this read. 

Synopsis for the First book: 
In the three kingdoms of Mytica, magic has long been forgotten. And while hard-won peace has reigned for centuries, a deadly unrest now simmers below the surface.

As the rulers of each kingdom grapple for power, the lives of their subjects are brutally transformed... and four key players, royals and rebels alike, find their fates forever intertwined. Cleo, Jonas, Lucia, and Magnus are caught in a dizzying world of treacherous betrayals, shocking murders, secret alliances, and even unforeseen love.

The only outcome that's certain is that kingdoms will fall. Who will emerge triumphant when all they know has collapsed?

It's the eve of war.... Choose your side.

Princess: Raised in pampered luxury, Cleo must now embark on a rough and treacherous journey into enemy territory in search of magic long thought extinct.

Rebel: Jonas, enraged at injustice, lashes out against the forces of oppression that have kept his country cruelly impoverished. To his shock, he finds himself the leader of a people's revolution centuries in the making.

Sorceress: Lucia, adopted at birth into the royal family, discovers the truth about her past—and the supernatural legacy she is destined to wield.

Heir: Bred for aggression and trained to conquer, firstborn son Magnus begins to realise that the heart can be more lethal than the sword....

Synopsis for the 5th (Spoilers for the previous books): 
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An epic clash between gods and mortals threatens to tear Mytica apart . . . and prove that not even the purest of love stands a chance against the strongest of magic.

MAGNUS and CLEO are forced to test the strength of their love when Gaius returns to Mytica claiming he's no longer the King of Blood but a changed man seeking redemption.

LUCIA, pregnant with the child of a Watcher, has escaped the clutches of the unhinged fire god. Her powers are dwindling as she goes forth to fulfill a prophecy that will keep her baby safe . . . but could mean her demise. 

JONAS treks back to Mytica with a plan to overtake Amara, but fate takes hold when he runs into the beautiful Princess Lucia and joins her on her perilous journey.

AMARA has taken the Mytican throne, but with no way to unleash the water magic trapped within her stolen crystal, she'll never be able to seize glory and get sweet revenge.

And what kind of darkness will descend--and who will be safe--after Prince Ashur reveals the dangerous price he paid to cheat death?

Truthwitch by Susan Dennard (Review Here) is another book that I read this year, and also fell in love with. Like many other books I find myself attracted to, Truthwitch has a sassy but strong protagonist and is fill to the brim with action, adventure and the perfect amount of romance. I actually read both of Dennard's series this year, and enjoyed both. (Truthwitch is the first, and only book out so far in her second series.) The other series, Something Strange and Deadly, I enjoyed immensely, but it didn't make the cut of my favorites for the year. Why? The last book kind of tarnished my view of the series a bit, but otherwise I found it to be quite enjoyable-- I reccomend that one as well. Though, if you were to only read one of Dennard's series, I'd say go for Truthwitch.  (Yeah, their powers sound stupid (to me), but ignore that, because the book is still fantastic.) 
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Synsopsis: 

On a continent ruled by three empires, some are born with a “witchery,” a magical skill that sets them apart from others.

In the Witchlands, there are almost as many types of magic as there are ways to get in trouble—as two desperate young women know all too well.

Safiya is a Truthwitch, able to discern truth from lie. It’s a powerful magic that many would kill to have on their side, especially amongst the nobility to which Safi was born. So Safi must keep her gift hidden, lest she be used as a pawn in the struggle between empires.

Iseult, a Threadwitch, can see the invisible ties that bind and entangle the lives around her—but she cannot see the bonds that touch her own heart. Her unlikely friendship with Safi has taken her from life as an outcast into one of reckless adventure, where she is a cool, wary balance to Safi’s hotheaded impulsiveness.

Safi and Iseult just want to be free to live their own lives, but war is coming to the Witchlands. With the help of the cunning Prince Merik (a Windwitch and ship’s captain) and the hindrance of a Bloodwitch bent on revenge, the friends must fight emperors, princes, and mercenaries alike, who will stop at nothing to get their hands on a Truthwitch.

Surprisingly enough, that's all the TOP favorite books that I read this year. Yeah, I read a lot of good ones (e. Raven Boys, First & Then, Me Before You, etc.) but none of them could quite surpass the FAVORITES bar. Nevertheless, I highly reccomend those, as well as all the books listed here (Yeah, all four of them). If you're looking for good recomandations, I have a whole category on my blog for that, so check it out. :) 
It's been an interesting year, so thanks for sticking by and reading my reviews. I really appreciate y'all. 
​-Anj

"They're the worst kinds of monsters. The ones who think they're doing right." 
Two worlds collide in author Lindsey Klingele's debut novel, The Marked Girl. One world is modern day Los Angeles, the other a magical fantasy world filled with monsters and enhanced beings.
"It's magic, then?" 
"No, it's wi-fi."  
I usually don't read the whole fantasy characters meet the modern world books. An example of this is A Book of Spirit and Thieves. That book is a spin off of the Falling Kingdoms series (which I love). In that story a girl from modern day Canada somehow makes her way into a portal that takes her to Mythica (the setting of Falling Kingdoms.) I bought that book as soon as I saw it-- and it's been just sitting on my bookshelf for almost a year now. I'm just not that interested in that type of book. (I'm sure I'll be shaking my head later when I actually do read A Book of Spirits and Thieves and love it.) What originally drew me to this book was not the plot nor the cover. It was actually the book trailer that made me want to read it. Not that the trailer was particularly good-- no book trailers ever are- but the publishers did a very smart thing when making the trailer. 
They had very prominent people in the book community (Polandbananasbooks aka Christine Riccio, Jessethereader and Katytastic) acting in it. I don't usually watch book trailers (because they're always really bad and they also affect how I see the characters), but of course I had to watch this book trailer- my favorite book tuber was in it! It did end up sounding kind of interesting to me, so I added it to my amazon cart and preordered it. 
After reading this book all I can say about my emotions on it is that I feel neutral. I didn't like it nor did I dislike it. There was nothing that particularly impressed me while reading the book. A lot of the aspects in the book were not very original, and many of the 'plot twists' were things that I easily predicted. Then again, I am a seasoned reader as well as a very skeptical reader. I tend to easily pick up hints and make some very good guesses at what's to come. That's why when I am surprised about something in a story, it makes a rather large impact on me. 
Liv, the main character, is a (basically) regular teenage girl who's life changes drastically when she runs into a small group of some very strange people. Liv was a normal protagonist. Nothing particularly special, I didn't find her super annoying (luckily), but I didn't really like her all that much either. Like a lot of the book, I felt neutral about her. She didn't have any outstanding qualities that really stood out, she was just kind of there. 
Cedric is a prince from another dimension who will do anything to get back to his kingdom. Maybe one of the issues about this was that I saw the trailer and now all I could visualize as the characters were the people in the trailer. Jessethereader was Cedric, which might explain why I wasn't overly attracted to this character. He wasn't the dark, warrior prince in my mind, he was a rather competitive, sometimes silly book tuber. I enjoyed some of Cedric's lines, some were rather amusing, but overall, like Liv (and the book), I feel pretty neutral about him. 
Kat is Cedric's betrothed, like Cedric, she is a warrior and extremely loyal to her country. It's odd, I was expecting to see a lot more of her in the story, but we actually barely get to know her character at all. I liked Kat fine, but like the rest of the story, she wasn't anything new. I've read plenty of books with characters like Kat, and nothing about her made her stand out from the rest of them. 
Merek is Cedric's cousin. He's the typical jerk with a backstory as to why that is. I have to say, I didn't dislike Merek as a character. I could see his angle and where he was coming from, which actually made me almost like him. I did feel a little bad for him because of how he is treated, though he kind deserves some of it because, like I said, he's a jerk. 
The plot, as mentioned before, was rather predictable. And the relationships, mainly the romance made my eyes roll a little. While it was not instalove (which I absolutely hate), it was almost instalove. There was something about it that did not feel like it was really a relationship, possibly because of how quickly the relationship developed. Perhaps I'm being too skeptical on this because I've never actually experienced such a quick attraction, actually, I've never been in a romantic relationship but ignore that. This review is not about my nonexistent love life. My point is, I'm a very skeptical person and this relationship just seemed to develop too quickly. I've read some books where the main characters fall for each other in a number of days and I did believe the relationship, but the way those books were written made me fall for the relationship as well, which made it more believable. There was just something that gelt a little off about this relationship to me. Another issue I had with this story is that things would just instantly happen, which no warning or indication of what was happening. One sentence everything would be normal and the next someone would be being dragged across the room. It just didn't seem to work and felt a little odd. 
The choices some characters made felt a little unrealistic as well. For example, Liv follows a stranger who she saw once into a dark tunnel. WHO DOES THAT? I guess someone with no sense of self preservation. Both Liv and Cedric seem to trust each other almost immediately, which is fairly unbelievable seeing as Cedric could be betrayed by anyone and all Liv knows about Cedric is that he's good at fighting and owns a sword. 
"What is kale?" 
"It's best that you don't know." 
Overall, I wasn't particularly impressed by this book. I'd give it a 6/10 stars. I may read the next book, depending on the books that come out around the time it does and my mood when it comes out. I'm not waiting on the edge of my seat for it, though. 
Here's the synopsis: 

Once upon a time, in a land far, far away (Los Angeles)…

When Cedric, crowned prince of Caelum, and his fellow royal friends (including his betrothed, Kat) find themselves stranded in modern-day L.A. via a magical portal and an evil traitor named Malquin, all they want to do is get home to Caelum—soon. Then they meet Liv, a filmmaker foster girl who just wants to get out of the system and on with her life. As she and Cedric bond, they’ll discover that she’s more connected to his world than they ever could’ve imagined…and that finding home is no easy task…

Magic exists. Two young enchanters must fight for their lives as they compete against each other for the prized position as the Imperial Enchanter. One will become one of the most prominent leaders in Russia, the other is destined to die. The only question is, who will win the Crown's Game, obtaining great glory and power? And who will die a painful death?
The Crown's Game is author Evelyn Skye's debut novel, and she did a fantastic job. The characters are realistic, lovable and quite well written. The plot is fascinating and before you know it, you will be sucked into a world full of magic and intrigue.  
The setting of this great story is in Russia, an area  where not many novels take place. While some of the names and places may throw you off at the very beginning (as it did for me), the story is so riveting you soon will not be able to tear your eyes away from the pages. Believe me, I definitely did not intend to stay up as late (or early) as I did that morning that I finished it, but I just couldn't stop. I was too into the story. 
Vika is one of the two enchanters, Nikolai is the other. Their magic is one magic that has been split in two, and it calls to itself, causing the two to instantly feel a strange attraction to each other. These two enchanters are two halves of one whole. While Vika's magic is the natural half, giving her the ability to call on living beings and control the elements, Nikolai's is more mechanical. He can do things like shape and create new structures from nothing. 
Vika is wild, untamed. She's not very predictable, like her wild, naturalistic magic. Nikolai is the polar opposite. He's polite, and a gentleman. And as we all know, there isn't much I love more than a gentleman. 
To add to the drama of these two already feeling attracted to each other though one is bound to die, Pasha, Nikolai's best friend and heir to the throne, has begun to have feelings for the mysterious fire girl (Vika) as well. It doesn't help that Pasha has no idea what the Crown's Game is, or that his best friend is a contender in it. 
I'll admit, the exposition of the story was rather long, making the beginning a little boring. That is exactly the reason I started reading it in the late evening. What I was not anticipating is that the story catches up and quickly becomes enthralling, aka I stayed up way too late and slept in until noon the next morning. 
The Crown's Game is fascinating, full of action, magic and a little romance. All things that I love in a good novel. I really enjoyed this story, it had a rather surprising ending, but I'm quite looking forward to reading the next book. (2017, why are you so far away? *cry face*) All in all, I'd give it a 7.5/10 stars. It was really enjoyable and fun, the writing was fantastic and the plot intriguing (as I've repeated over and over. I highly recommend this story for fans of books like Falling Kingdoms and Legacy of Kings. It's a great novel made up of a prefecture mix of fantasy and historical fiction. 
Synopsis: 

Vika Andreyeva can summon the snow and turn ash into gold. Nikolai Karimov can see through walls and conjure bridges out of thin air. They are enchanters—the only two in Russia—and with the Ottoman Empire and the Kazakhs threatening, the Tsar needs a powerful enchanter by his side.

And so he initiates the Crown’s Game, an ancient duel of magical skill—the greatest test an enchanter will ever know. The victor becomes the Imperial Enchanter and the Tsar’s most respected adviser. The defeated is sentenced to death.

Raised on tiny Ovchinin Island her whole life, Vika is eager for the chance to show off her talent in the grand capital of Saint Petersburg. But can she kill another enchanter—even when his magic calls to her like nothing else ever has?

For Nikolai, an orphan, the Crown’s Game is the chance of a lifetime. But his deadly opponent is a force to be reckoned with—beautiful, whip smart, imaginative—and he can’t stop thinking about her.

And when Pasha, Nikolai’s best friend and heir to the throne, also starts to fall for the mysterious enchantress, Nikolai must defeat the girl they both love... or be killed himself.

As long-buried secrets emerge, threatening the future of the empire, it becomes dangerously clear... the Crown’s Game is not one to lose.

SPOILERS BELOW
The story really didn't start to catch up until the Crown's Game began. The way the magic is described is something new that I've never read. I really enjoyed it, feeling like I can understand how it all works. And for once, I loved both protagonists. While reading this, I had this nagging feeling that they'd both survive somehow. 
Yeah. 
I was wrong. 
Also while reading this I had a feeling that Vika would win the Crown's Game, but as I read more of Nikolai, I found I really  liked him. As I've said before, who doesn't love a gentleman? Ugh, when Vika was dying from that stab wound I fully accepted her death and that Nikolai would live. 
Then Nikolai died. 
And I felt like I died inside. 
Ugh, when Pasha made them fight to the death I felt very indignant. Somewhere along the lines of AND I THOUGHT I LIKED YOU! I know, I know, Yuliana made him, but does it look like I care for excuses, Pasha? No, I do not. Nikolai is dead, and I, along with Vika, will resent you for that until Nikolai is brought back to life in book two. 
Why do I think he'll be brought back to life? A few reasons. One, it is obvious that his mother is very good at bringing things back to life. Sure, he exploded into powder, but.... IT WILL HAPPEN SOME HOW. Two? A book two without Nikolai would just be painful, I don't believe Evelyn will make us sit through a book without him. Aka without BAE. And three? I read another review that said in history, it was Nikolai who took the throne, not Pasha. Unless Evelyn wants to start a fight with historians, I believe she'd better bring him back. AH. Nikolai just needs come back to life. I just want Nikolai back. Please. Please, it's been nagging at me ever since I finished the book. I just want the second one... Please? 
Alright, that's the main thing that I really wanted to discuss in the spoilery section. 
My other comments were these. 
Okay, at the ball, was anyone else just squealing because... feels?! No? That was just me? Okay then... Ignore that... hehe. No, but seriously, I seriously love masquerades, the romantic air about them is simply magnificent. Someone around here please throw me a masquerade so I can attend and then meet the love of my life. When Vika walked in wearing that snow dress I literally just freaked out because I was so excited. And then when Nikolai and her just danced I couldn't even because THE FEELS. THE FEELS. 
The competition was amazing, I don't have much to say about it other than I loved reading about it and their crafty schemes at first to try and harm each other was fascinating. And then their moves turned into something a little less violent. Ah. The feels. I really loved this story. 
And my last comment is OMG WTF NIKOLAI AND PASHA ARE BROTHERS. I was not expecting that. Ah. I want to know what would come out of that. 
Anyway, thanks for reading. 
Love y'all,
-Anj 
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P.S. My next post should be a SHOULD READS list or possibly another review- I just got more books. Guess what? The next book in the Blood of Gods and Monsters books is coming out soon!!! It's beautiful. I'm very excited. 

C.J. Redwine's The Shadow Queen takes you into a world where dragons and magic exist. Where an evil queen presides over a kingdom that does not belong to her. Where a rebellious princess is lying in wait for the perfect time to take back what's hers, and where an irresponsible prince is put into a position that he was never expecting. 
All in all, the idea for this story sounds intriguing. The Shadow Queen is a retelling of the classic tale Snow White. Recently, I've been rather into fantasy novels, especially stories with kingdoms and monarchies. (A Court of Thorns and Roses, Throne of Glass, Falling Kingdoms etc.) And if you follow my reviews, you might know that I found a new favorite book, A Court of Mist and Fury, which is the second book to A Court of Thorns and Roses, a very loose retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Basically what I'm trying to get at is I was really looking forward to reading this due to the fact that the idea for this story was ​totally down my alley. As you may be able to tell, I'm about to say a negative. 
Unfortunately, this novel was disappointing. The ideas in it were nothing new. Sure, I don't mind some cliches, but the way they were used in this story were rather annoying. Reusing old ideas is fine, as long as you mix in new ones with it. There weren't really any great new ideas here. There was nothing in this book that made me feel any connection to any of the main characters. Princess Lorelai? Interesting, but nothing particularly special. Queen Irina? Eh. Couldn't really bring myself to care about her. Even care enough to dislike her. Prince Kol? Attractive, but nothing really new. 
The plot was also not particularly interesting. I believe the main issue about it was how quickly it was moving. While too much exposition is boring, not enough exposition makes the novel very hard to grow attached to. This story just rushed into everything. It was even hard to grow attached to any relationships in it. The romance? It was very quick and honestly? Not very interesting. There was a certain death that I'm fairly sure was supposed to affect me, but I really couldn't bring myself to care. 
This is all very harsh, I know, and I apologize. It wasn't as if this novel was horrible, but I actually just couldn't bring myself to care about much of anything in it. I tried, but there was nothing for me to particularly connect with. Usually the Kol like characters are the ones I instantly fall for, not this time. 
Synopsis: 
Lorelai Diederich, crown princess and fugitive at large, has one mission: kill the wicked queen who took both the Ravenspire throne and the life of her father. To do that, Lorelai needs to use the one weapon she and Queen Irina have in common—magic. She’ll have to be stronger, faster, and more powerful than Irina, the most dangerous sorceress Ravenspire has ever seen.

In the neighboring kingdom of Eldr, when Prince Kol’s father and older brother are killed by an invading army of magic-wielding ogres, the second-born prince is suddenly given the responsibility of saving his kingdom. To do that, Kol needs magic—and the only way to get it is to make a deal with the queen of Ravenspire, promise to become her personal huntsman…and bring her Lorelai’s heart.

But Lorelai is nothing like Kol expected—beautiful, fierce, and unstoppable—and despite dark magic, Lorelai is drawn in by the passionate and troubled king. Fighting to stay one step ahead of the dragon huntsman—who she likes far more than she should—Lorelai does everything in her power to ruin the wicked queen. But Irina isn’t going down without a fight, and her final move may cost the princess the one thing she still has left to lose.

All in all, this novel was not for me, but if the synopsis interests you, please feel free to get it. It may not have been the perfect story for me, but it was a pretty interesting plot. I'd give The Shadow Queen 6/10 stars. Its non originality bored me and so did the characters and the plot. Nothing particularly stood out. 
If there was a second book, I doubt I'd be interested enough to read it. 
​Anyway, sorry for such a negative review, but thanks for reading. 
​-Anj

Alright, so I'm severely behind on reviews. Honestly, I read the Winner's Kiss two months ago and now really don't feel like writing a review on it. Same with the Power. 
Let's start with the Winner's Kiss. This novel is the final book in the Winner's Curse Trilogy by Marie Rutkoski. (Review here) I was not overly impressed with The Winner's Curse, but I did enjoy it. The story basically follows two characters, Arin and Kestrel. They're born enemies. Kestrel's nation overtook Arin's, and now Arin and his people have become slaves. Kestrel buys Arin, and they fall in love. Blah blah blah. the writing in these novels is fantastic and the characters are very well written. Unfortunately, I came out of The Winner's Kiss feeling rather disappointed. It all felt too rushed, sure I was glad I didn't have to wait to long for a certain reunion, but the rest of it felt like it was all occurring just too fast. I didn't really feel very satisfied with the ending, and I definitely didn't like how they got there. It just didn't feel like a good way to end the story for me. I'd give this novel a 6/10. I didn't love it, but it wasn't horrible. Just not one of my favorites. (SPOILER FOR NOVEL: I also did not like how I wasn't really sure if Kestrel fully got her memories back or not) 
Next, here's a short review of The Power, the second novel in Jennifer L. Armentrout's Titan series, the spin off of her Covenant series. Honestly, I was really excited when the first book in this series came out a year ago. It follows my favorite character (Seth) from the Covenant series. Unfortunately, like The Winner's Kiss, I found this book rather disappointing as well. It wasn't so much Seth in this novel, but more Josie. She annoyed the crap out of me and I really just couldn't stand her. Especially with some things that she said/did in the story. I'd give this book a 5.7/10 stars. It's not a story that I particularly enjoyed reading and I felt like I was dragging my feet through it the entire time. I actually only wanted to read this book because I wanted to see Alex and Aiden again. I was disappointed in that area of it as well. Sorry. I'm not even sure if I want to read the next book/s. (SPOILERS: It pissed me off the most when she called Aiden and Alex the 'microwave' versions. It's like, excuse me? They've done so much more and better than you. And they'll always be better than you, so please, stop trying to make yourself think you're better. You're not.) 

Sorry for the short review, I thought I should probably just give my overlying impression of these two books. 
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