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We Can Work It Out by Elizabeth Eulberg

8/30/2015

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Wonderfully cute and romantic and yet at the same time perfectly awkward and adorable. We Can Work it Out is a perfect sequel to The Lonely Hearts Club. Sure, I wanted Penny and Ryan to have a perfect happy ending but seeing the twists and turns in their relationship was so realistic it sometimes hurt. Okay, that made this book sound bad. It's not, in fact, it was a great book. Quirky and realistic. I loved almost every minute of it. Although, the awkward and sad moments I found myself enjoying but not at the same time. I don't really have too much to say about this book aside from IT'S GREAT, READ IT. If you have yet to pick up The Lonely Hearts Club, I have no idea what you've been doing with your life. Pick it up. You'll be sure to love it just as much as you'll love the sequel. 8/10 stars for being absolutely fantastical. 
Synopsis: 
When Penny Lane started The Lonely Hearts Club, the goal was simple: to show that girls didn’t need to define themselves by how guys look at them, and didn’t have to value boyfriends over everything else. Penny thought she’d be an outcast for life…but then the club became far more popular than she ever imagined it would be.

But what happens when the girl who never thought she’d date a good guy suddenly finds herself dating a great one? She doesn’t need a boyfriend… but she wants it to work out with this particular boyfriend. And he wants it to work out with her.

Only, things keep getting in the way. Feelings keep getting hurt. Words keep getting misunderstood.

Penny Lane worked hard to declare her independence. Now she needs to figure out what to do with it — and how to balance what she wants with what everyone else wants. In We Can Work It Out, Elizabeth Eulberg returns to the world of her first novel, The Lonely Hearts Club, and gets to the heart of how hard relationships can be… and why they are sometimes worth all the drama and comedy they create.
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Much Needed Book Haul

8/29/2015

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Every Last Breath by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Already read and reviewed this book. Loved it. Here's the synopsis:
Every choice has consequences—but seventeen-year-old Layla faces tougher choices than most. Light or darkness. Wickedly sexy demon prince Roth, or Zayne, the gorgeous, protective Warden she never thought could be hers. Hardest of all, Layla has to decide which side of herself to trust.

Layla has a new problem, too. A Lilin—the deadliest of demons—has been unleashed, wreaking havoc on those around her…including her best friend. To keep Sam from a fate much, much worse than death, Layla must strike a deal with the enemy while saving her city—and her race—from destruction.

Torn between two worlds and two different boys, Layla has no certainties, least of all survival, especially when an old bargain comes back to haunt them all. But sometimes, when secrets are everywhere and the truth seems unknowable, you have to listen to your heart, pick a side—and then fight like hell…
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The Heartbreakers by Ali Novak 
I had already read this book before buying it multiple times. I still love the published version. 
Synopsis:
"When I met Oliver Perry, I had no clue he was the lead singer for The Heartbreakers. And he had no idea that I was the only girl in the world who hated his music."

Stella will do anything for her sick sister, Cara—even stand in line for an autographed Heartbreakers CD...for four hours. She's totally winning best birthday gift this year. At least she met a cute boy with soft brown hair and gorgeous blue eyes while getting her caffeine fix. Too bad she'll never see him again.

Except, Stella's life has suddenly turned into a cheesy love song. Because Starbucks Boy is Oliver Perry – lead singer for the Heartbreakers. And even after she calls his music crap, Oliver still gives Stella his phone number. And whispers quotes from her favorite Disney movie in her ear. OMG, what is her life?

But how can Stella even think about being with Oliver — dating and laughing and pulling pranks with the band — when her sister could be dying of cancer? 

Ali Novak wrote her debut novel My Life with the Walter Boys when she was just 15 years old, and has since penned her next book, The Heartbreakers. First a hit on the online community Wattpad, her second novel has over 38 million reads and is loved by readers around the world.

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The Boy Most Likely To by Huntley Fitzpatrick 
I read her other two books last summer and I love Tim, I'm very excited to read this book. 
Surprises abound and sparks ignite in the highly anticipated, utterly romantic companion to My Life Next Door

Tim Mason was The Boy Most Likely To:
- find the liquor cabinet blindfolded
- need a liver transplant
- drive his car into a house

Alice Garrett was The Girl Most Likely To:
- well, not date her little brother’s baggage-burdened best friend, for starters.

For Tim, it wouldn’t be smart to fall for Alice. For Alice, nothing could be scarier than falling for Tim. But Tim has never been known for making the smart choice, and Alice is starting to wonder if the “smart” choice is always the right one. When these two crash into each other, they crash hard. 

Then the unexpected consequences of Tim’s wild days come back to shock him. He finds himself in a situation that isn’t all it appears to be, that he never could have predicted . . . but maybe should have.

And Alice is caught in the middle. 

Told in Tim’s and Alice’s distinctive, disarming, entirely compelling voices, this return to the world of My Life Next Door is a story about failing first, trying again, and having to decide whether to risk it all once more.
 
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Demon Glass by Rachel Hawkins
Yup. I finally obtained the 2nd book. 
Sophie Mercer thought she was a witch. That was the whole reason she was sent to Hex Hall, a reform school for delinquent Prodigium (a.k.a. witches, shape-shifters, and faeries). But then she discovered the family secret, and the fact that her hot crush, Archer Cross, is an agent for The Eye, a group bent on wiping Prodigium off the face of the earth.

Turns out, Sophie's a demon, one of only two in the world-the other being her father. What's worse, she has powers that threaten the lives of everyone she loves. Which is precisely why Sophie decides she must go to London for the Removal, a dangerous procedure that will either destroy her powers for good-or kill her. 

But once Sophie arrives, she makes a shocking discovery. Her new housemates? They're demons too. Meaning, someone is raising demons in secret, with creepy plans to use their powers, and probably not for good. Meanwhile, The Eye is set on hunting Sophie down, and they're using Archer to do it. But it's not like she has feelings for him anymore. Does she?
 
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Miss Mayhem by Rachel Hawkins
Um. It was fun but not my favorite. 
Life is almost back to normal for Harper Price. The Ephors have been silent after their deadly attack at Cotillion months ago, and her best friend, Bee, has returned after a mysterious disappearance. Now Harper can focus on the important things in life: school, canoodling with David (her nemesis-turned-ward-slash-boyfie), and even competing in the Miss Pine Grove pageant.

Unfortunately, supernatural chores are never done. The Ephors have decided they’d rather train David than kill him. The catch: Harper has to come along for the ride, but she can’t stay David’s Paladin unless she undergoes an ancient trial that will either kill her . . . or make her more powerful than ever.
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Rebel Spring and Gathering Darkness by Morgan Rhodes 
already R&R = LOVED THESE
Rebel Spring:
The road to power... is paved with blood and magic.

Cleo
 is now a prisoner in her own palace, forced to be an ambassador for Mytica as the evil King Gaius lies to her people.
Magnus stands to eventually inherit the new kingdom but is still obsessed with his feelings for his adopted sister, Lucia.
Lucia is haunted by the outcome of the breathtaking display of magic that allowed her father to capture the kingdoms.
Jonas watched at the palace gates a troop of rebels behind him, waiting for him to tell them how he plans to overtake King Gaius.

After a bloody siege, Auranos has been defeated, its young queen orphaned and dethroned. The three kingdoms—Auranos, Limeros, and Paelsia—are now unwillingly united as one country called Mytica. But the allure of ancient, dangerous magic beckons still, and with it the chance to rule not just Mytica, but the whole world over...

At the heart of the fray are four brave young people grappling for that magic and the power it promises. For Cleo, the magic would enable her to reclaim her royal seat. In Jonas's hands, it frees his nation, and in Lucia's, it fulfills the ancient prophecy of her destiny. And if the magic were Magnus's, he would finally prove his worth in the eyes of his cruel and scheming father, King Gaius, who rules Mytica with a punishing hand.

When Gaius begins to build a road into the Forbidden Mountains to physically link all of Mytica, he sparks a long-smoking fire in the hearts of the people that will forever change the face of this land. For Gaius's road is paved with blood, and its construction will have cosmic consequences.
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Queen and Invasion of the Tearling by Erika Johanssen 
Read Queen of the Tearling it was boring and kinda interesting. Not my favorite. 
An untested young princess must claim her throne, learn to become a queen, and combat a malevolent sorceress in an epic battle between light and darkness in this spectacular debut—the first novel in a trilogy.

Young Kelsea Raleigh was raised in hiding after the death of her mother, Queen Elyssa, far from the intrigues of the royal Keep and in the care of two devoted servants who pledged their lives to protect her. Growing up in a cottage deep in the woods, Kelsea knows little of her kingdom's haunted past . . . or that its fate will soon rest in her hands.

Long ago, Kelsea's forefathers sailed away from a decaying world to establish a new land free of modern technology. Three hundred years later, this feudal society has divided into three fearful nations who pay duties to a fourth: the powerful Mortmesne, ruled by the cunning Red Queen. Now, on Kelsea's nineteenth birthday, the tattered remnants of the Queen's Guard—loyal soldiers who protect the throne—have appeared to escort the princess on a perilous journey to the capital to ascend to her rightful place as the new Queen of the Tearling.

Though born of royal blood and in possession of the Tear sapphire, a jewel of immense power and magic, Kelsea has never felt more uncertain of her ability to rule. But the shocking evil she discovers in the heart of her realm will precipitate an act of immense daring, throwing the entire kingdom into turmoil—and unleashing the Red Queen's vengeance. A cabal of enemies with an array of deadly weapons, from crimson-caped assassins to the darkest blood magic, plots to destroy her. But Kelsea is growing in strength and stealth, her steely resolve earning her loyal allies, including the Queen's Guard, led by the enigmatic Lazarus, and the intriguing outlaw known simply as "the Fetch."

Kelsea's quest to save her kingdom and meet her destiny has only just begun. Riddled with mysteries, betrayals, and treacherous battles, Kelsea's journey is a trial by fire that will either forge a legend . . . or destroy her.
 
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Winner's Curse and Crime by Marie Rutkoski
read both, enjoyed both. I won't be reviewing Crime because I don't have much to say other than it was wonderful! 
Winning what you want may cost you everything you love... 

As a general’s daughter in a vast empire that revels in war and enslaves those it conquers, seventeen-year-old Kestrel has two choices: she can join the military or get married. But Kestrel has other intentions. 

One day, she is startled to find a kindred spirit in a young slave up for auction. Arin’s eyes seem to defy everything and everyone. Following her instinct, Kestrel buys him—with unexpected consequences. It’s not long before she has to hide her growing love for Arin. 

But he, too, has a secret, and Kestrel quickly learns that the price she paid for a fellow human is much higher than she ever could have imagined. 

Set in a richly imagined new world, The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkoski is a story of deadly games where everything is at stake, and the gamble is whether you will keep your head or lose your heart.
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Justice League: Origin New 52 
Thought I'd try these out since I love comic book characters. Read it today. It was different and enjoyable. 
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Falling Kingdoms Books 1-3 by Morgan Rhodes

8/28/2015

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Could we just sit here and enjoy the covers for a bit? Please? They're gorgeous. I read Falling Kingdoms a couple months ago or so. Going into it, I wasn't sure what to expect. It was interesting because the first pages had a cast of characters. That was unusual for most books. This book series is said to be the 'young adult' version of Game of Thrones/A Song of Ice and Fire since I haven't read those books, I can't exactly say I know whether or not they actually are but I am in the middle of binge watching the show, and I can see how they're kind of similar. I wasn't too interested for the most part while reading Falling Kingdoms, it wasn't until towards the end of the story that I got interested. One of the problems I've had reading this story was I only actually like two of the main characters- Cleo and Jonas. I find Lucia to be a spoiled, annoying brat and Magnus... well I had trouble liking him because he 1. tries to be heartless and 2. is in love with his sister. I totally supported that in the Mortal Instruments (yes I've read all the books) because they didn't grow up together but when they grew up together... egh. It wasn't until the third book that I actually started to get slightly interested in the boy's character. Slightly. 
I like Cleo's character. Even though she doesn't have special powers like Lucia and can't fight as well as Magnus or evan Jonas, she's a strong protagonist. She fights in her own deceptive way and I appreciate that about her. In all honesty, even though I read all three of these books before even starting Game of Thrones, Cleo's character kind of almost reminds me of Sansa Stark. And since I like Sansa, it's a win win situation. George R. R. Martin, if you're reading this-which I doubt- I lied I do not like Sansa. In fact, Ramsey is my favorite character (Game of Thrones fans will understand why I just said that) 
Jonas is my other favorite character. I didn't like him quite as much as I did Cleo, but I still liked him a lot more than Lucia. Jonas is a rebel. He becomes one after he sees his older brother murdered in cold blood. He seeks revenge. Revenge on who? Princess Cleo and her betrothed, Aron. 
It's kind of funny because all during the first book I was just like, Yeah, Cleo and Jonas are totally going to be together. I have no idea why, maybe because I just liked both of their characters or maybe I liked the idea of the rebel and the princess. I would just think like oh yeah, they're totally end game and then Jonas would just be thinking of the incredibly painful way he was going to slowly kill Cleo for being responsible for his brother's murder and I would just think like, haha, no, it's just a stage. 
Falling Kingdoms is a very fun read because it follows the very different lives of four very different people. When all these people come together and meet? Well, let's just say things don't go so well. And when things don't go so well, it gets real interesting. 
My favorite of these three books is almost definitely the third book, though, it's pretty close with the second. These books just keep getting better and better as they go on, so if you don't particularly enjoy the first book, try the second. Don't just give up on the first. Pretty soon you'll be pulled into a world full of intrigue, romance, betrayal and plenty of action. 
I'd give Falling Kingdoms 6.5/10 stars because it just started catching up at the end and by the end I was pretty interested in the world. Rebel Spring gets 7/10 stars it was quite enjoyable and by the time I finished, I was quite invested in the characters and plot. Gathering Darkness gets 8/10 stars, like I said, it's my favorite book out of the series so far. I highly recommend this book series, it's one of my many favorites. 
 Here's the synopsis for Falling Kingdoms: 
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....
 
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Jesse's Girl by Miranda Kenneally

8/15/2015

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I had high expectations for this book. I was not disappointed. Miranda has yet to let me down with her marvelous romances. 
Warning: This book may contain spoilers to all the previous books in the Hundred Oaks books. This part won't have spoilers to Jesse's girl but if you haven't read the previous books, read at your own risk. 
The thing I was most excited about was Sam and Jordan. I heard they had a large part in this book. Okay, compared to the other books, yeah, they did. But I was hoping to see more of them. I feel like a spoiled child, asking for more even when I got plenty. But I would seriously enjoy a book about Sam and Jordan going grocery shopping. That's how much I love that couple. They will forever be my favorite pair in the Hundred Oaks books. 
Like all of Miranda's books this one was a fun, cute, funny, romantic read. There were times you'd find yourself bursting out laughing because of the humor in the book. There were also times you'd find yourself cringing at the awkwardly real feeling moments. But there are times where you'll find yourself sighing, wishing you could find a romance like this. This book was the full package. Only a quarter of the way through I found myself already shipping Jesse and Maya. 
Maya is a bit of a spit fire. Following in Sam's footsteps there. She has a lot of Sam's personality traits but she is her own person. Maya is particularly found of music. Like all of Miranda's books, the protagonist has a strong love for something. (i.e. football, baseball/softball, christianity, horses, running) 
Jesse is a pretty cool guy. He's fun and a little rebellious. He also has trouble trusting people because of his fame but all in all he's a sweet guy. 
"Can I cut in?" 
"No, you may not." 
God, I love Jesse. 
"He's still holding his ICEE like he expects someone to steal it from him." 

"I heard all the foul language and figured Sam and Jordan were here." 
I absolutely loved seeing Jordan and Sam in this book. Whenever they came into the story my happiness level soared. A lot of their relationship is based on fighting, which I found rather entertaining. And it also had me shipping them even more (which I didn't even know was possible). The two of them are living together in these books and THE FEELS. Ah it's great. 
Just a reminder of how great Sam is. 
(While talking about Career Day) "And I said I wanted to be an exotic dancer but I got detention." 

"You doubt my lawyer's ability to be annoying? That makes you one of a kind." 

9/10 stars. This book was fantastic. I still like the characters from Catching Jordan better, but this book deserves it's extra star.

All in all, this book was a fantastic novel and if you've read the other Hundred Oaks books, why haven't you picked this one up yet? The only thing I miss from Miranda's books are the plot twist half way through. 

Synopsis: 
Everyone at Hundred Oaks High knows that career mentoring day is a joke. So when Maya Henry said she wanted to be a rock star, she never imagined she’d get to shadow *the* Jesse Scott, Nashville’s teen idol.

But spending the day with Jesse is far from a dream come true. He’s as gorgeous as his music, but seeing all that he’s accomplished is just a reminder of everything Maya’s lost: her trust, her boyfriend, their band, and any chance to play the music she craves. Not to mention that Jesse’s pushy and opinionated. He made it on his own, and he thinks Maya’s playing back up to other people’s dreams. Does she have what it takes to follow her heart—and go solo?
 



SPOILERS BELOW


I don't really have any other spoilers I want to talk about other than the fact SAM AND JORDAN ARE ENGAGED.  I thought they'd get engaged in this book and I wasn't wrong. YES! I really hope in the next book we'll see their wedding... I'm just saying that Jordan yelling at Sam for being protective is great. Jordan and Sam are just great. I love them. I want a Sam Henry in my life. 

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The Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard

8/12/2015

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Rise, red as Dawn. 
It feels good to finally be catching up on reviews. (Okay, I have some reviews for other books I read a month ago to write... but I still think I'm catching up!) I just finished this book a half and hour ago and am still in awe. A lot of people are saying this book is overhyped. I can't disagree with them. As I've mentioned in earlier reviews, too much hype surrounding a book can ruin it. When you hear so much about a book, it's hard to not go into it expecting a lot. Some hype around a book is good, but overdone hype can be a book's ruin. Before I even ordered this book, I'd heard from a lot of people that they were not impressed with it. So, when I started reading it, you could say I was a bit nervous. I was expecting a lot and a disappointment at the same time. 
The beginning of The Red Queen is rather slow. Only around two thirds away in did I actually feel invested in the story. Even after I finished the book, I don't feel a particularly strong attachment to any of the characters. I can't really say I have a favorite character, I feel kind of mediocre about it all. Everyone who actually likes this book seems to be in love with Cal. I'm not overly fond of him but I don't dislike him either. I don't know, I guess everything with Cal felt a bit fast tracked plus I felt like we didn't get to know him too well. 
Anyone can betray anyone. 
And boy isn't that true. The most fascinating part about this book were the betrayals. How everyone was the enemy and you could trust no one. The entire story I was suspicious of everyone, Mare was a lot more trusting than I would've been. 
In fairytales, the poor girl smiles when she becomes a princess. Right now, I don't know if I'll ever smile again.
Mare was certainly an interesting protagonist. I did find myself annoyed be her and her actions quite a bit but I don't dislike her. Like Cal, I don't feel anything particularly strong for her. She's a strong protagonist, in her own way. She can't defend herself as well as Celeana (Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas) or June (Legend by Marie Lu) but she has her own type of defense. What do I mean by that? Mare isn't a fighter, she's not trained to fight or be a soldier but she has her own fire in her. She's sassy and can be a spit fire at times. My biggest issue with her is that she could get rather receptive in her thoughts and feelings. 
I told you to hide your heart once. You should have listened. 
Maven. He's the second prince. I found him to be rather sweet and felt bad for him. Always in his brother, Cal's, shadow. He's kind of the perfect prince. 
What I need and what I want are two very different things. 
Let's talk about Kilorn. Kilorn is Mare's childhood friend. He's cute and rather rebellious. Reminds me of Gale Hawthorn (The Hunger Games) a lot. But I liked Gale and I like Kilorn. I hope to see more of him in the next book and I think we will. I just feel bad for him because I know she won't pick him. 
“Silvers don't mind pain, but we are proud. Pride, dignity, honor; those are things no ability can replace.” 

Cal. As I said before, I feel indifferent about him. I want to like him, but we didn't see too much of him in this book. He seems like a good guy but I feel like his and Mare's feelings for each other almost sprung out of no where. I hate when that happens. Cal is a soldier, a fighter and the crowned prince. He's everything a king could want in a son. Devoted. Loyal. Smart. 
A lot of people say this story is unoriginal and there are a lot of books like it that are a lot more impressive. I can't protest and say this story is original. There are pieces of it that aren't, but Victoria Aveyard gives them an interesting spin. Sure, this isn't the most impressive book I've read in this genre and category, but it was worth the time it took to read and I ended up enjoying it. That's why I'm having trouble rating it. I can't say it's a favorite but I was impressed by the plot twists and the level of deepness in the characters. In the end, it's the betrayals and the plot twists that win this book 7.5/10 stars. If not for those, this book would get a 7 if not 6 stars. There was an air of predictability in the story, but you'll find yourself denying things and second guessing yourself. That was my favorite part about reading this book. The second guessing and denying. And that's really why this book got a higher rating. Not a lot of books make me second guess myself. 


Synopsis: 
The poverty stricken Reds are commoners, living under the rule of the Silvers, elite warriors with god-like powers.

To Mare Barrow, a 17-year-old Red girl from The Stilts, it looks like nothing will ever change.

Mare finds herself working in the Silver Palace, at the centre of
those she hates the most. She quickly discovers that, despite her red blood, she possesses a deadly power of her own. One that threatens to destroy Silver control.

But power is a dangerous game. And in this world divided by blood, who will win?



SPOILERS BELOW FOR RED QUEEN




In all honesty I saw that plot twist coming. Sure, I didn't want it to happen, but I kinda predicted it. Maven was sweet and a perfect prince. A little too perfect. Plus, the constant saying TRUST NO ONE made me trust no one. And something about Maven made me feel very suspicious. 
I also predicted that Shade wasn't dead. There was just something really sketchy about his death. How his body was cremated and how he ran. And then I second guessed myself but when we found out he was alive I almost screamed I KNEW IT! 
Yeah, sorry for the short spoilers section I just wanted to put those two things out there. 
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The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkoski

8/10/2015

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This book has been on my TBR list for a while now. I've never read anything from this author, so I wasn't sure what to think going into it. (Not overhyped and I didn't have high expectations)  Personally I think the problem with a lot of books today is that they're overhyped so when you read them, they're not nearly as good as you expected. Luckily, the Winner's Curse is not overhyped. I was impressed with this book. From the beginning the characters are interesting and I found myself wanting to know more and more about this world. The character's felt real. They aren't perfect. I appreciate that in books. I enjoyed the plot and characters but didn't fall in love with them. This book isn't the best that I've read in this category but it's pretty good. 
The two main characters are Arin and Kestrel. Kestrel is the general's daughter. She's a fascinating protagonist. The book is mainly told from her point of view, with a few bits from Arin's, so you really get to know Kestrel, her character and how she thinks. Kestrel is quite smart, she's a strategist and a musician. She's used to getting what she wants but not in a spoiled manner. There were only a few times that I felt mildly annoyed by her. That's my way of saying Kestrel is a good protagonist. Believe me, books are a lot harder to enjoy if the protagonist is constantly annoying you. 
Then there's Arin. He's a slave from a conquered country. He has a very interesting character. Driven by love for his country and later for his feelings. There's a lot more to him then I originally thought. 
The plot was riveting. I was constantly wondering what would happen next. I had a few ideas, but a lot of this book surprised me. The ending was not what I was expecting. Actually, I didn't know what to expect from this book. I'd heard no spoilers or anything about it, so when the story started changing directions I was pleasantly surprised. Sure, no part of the story was flabbergasting but it did have some neat surprises in there. 
I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes books with action, wit, suspense and romance. Shockingly enough, the whole story isn't just a romance between Arin and Kestrel. That's one of the things I was expecting but no. The romance is slow building, which I liked. It's a lot easier to get attached to a slow building romance over one where the characters hate each other and then a paragraph later are expressing how much they love the other. Those stories annoy me. I'd rate The Winner's Curse 7.5/10 stars, which is a pretty high rating for me. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next one. 
Synopsis: 
Winning what you want may cost you everything you love... 

As a general’s daughter in a vast empire that revels in war and enslaves those it conquers, seventeen-year-old Kestrel has two choices: she can join the military or get married. But Kestrel has other intentions. 

One day, she is startled to find a kindred spirit in a young slave up for auction. Arin’s eyes seem to defy everything and everyone. Following her instinct, Kestrel buys him—with unexpected consequences. It’s not long before she has to hide her growing love for Arin. 

But he, too, has a secret, and Kestrel quickly learns that the price she paid for a fellow human is much higher than she ever could have imagined. 

Set in a richly imagined new world, The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkoski is a story of deadly games where everything is at stake, and the gamble is whether you will keep your head or lose your heart.
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Heart of Betrayal by Mary E. Pearson

8/8/2015

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THIS BOOK WAS/IS FREAKING AMAZING. I LOVED IT. The plot, the characters, everything was amazing. Well, there was one part I found a little irritating but... I can't really talk about it in the non spoilery section. Heart of Betrayal is the second book in the Remnant Chronicles. The first is Kiss of Deception and I LOVED that book when I read it last fall. So obviously I couldn't wait to read this book, and Heart of Betrayal did not disappoint. I was seriously intrigued by page 6. This part is spoiler free for Heart of Betrayal, but not Kiss of Deception. If you haven't picked up the first book, don't read past this paragraph. I highly recommend you do pick up the first book, though, because it's a great story. Full of mystery, romance and action. Check out my review for Kiss of Deception if you're interested. 
Lia is a good protagonist. Sure, she did a few things I didn't approve of, especially *cough* messing with someone's feelings. But mostly Lia is a protagonist that I like and respect. She courageous and clever. I really enjoyed reading the book from her perspective. This book is a lot like the last book when it comes to the perspective/ point of views/ narration of the story. The main point of view is Lia's but occasionally it shows Kaden and Rafe's perspective. 
I like both boys. Though, I'd be lying if I said I didn't favor one. And yes, I favor Kaden. Rate/Jaxton is a good guy but I just feel more for Kaden. He has a more interesting back story and he's sweet. Y'all must think I'm crazy, calling the assassin sweeter than the prince. He's sacrificed so much for Lia. You could argue so has Rafe and yeah, both boys have sacrificed a lot. But Kaden.... I don't know, I just prefer him. Both Kaden and Rafe are expect fighters. It's always fun to see the two of them fight. Kaden, one of the best assassin's there is and Rafe, the well trained crown prince. Their log fight in Kiss of Deception was one of my favorite parts. There is another fight between the two in this book and it was equally as exciting. 
I found Kaden and Rafe's mutual dislike of each other amusing. Though, Kaden does have the upper hand in this book since they're in his hometown slash homeland. And Kaden is the Komizar's Assassin, second most powerful figure in Venda. 
Speaking of the Komizar, let's talk about what I think about him. I found his character fascinating. He's a brilliant evil bastard. A lot younger than I thought, but he's still quite interesting. He knows just what to do to get under Lia's skin. I found him interesting but very very angering. Like, I was hoping for a cruel death for him the entire book. His evil needs to be ended. 
Oh, I also just remembered that Pauline has a few point of views in this story too. They shed some light on some... interesting subjects. 
Kaden: I never liked you.
Rafe: I'm wounded. 
Haha, the dislike and drama between these two boys was priceless. 
The Heart of Betrayal was and is an intensely fun and intriguing read. If you enjoyed Kiss of Deception, why haven't you picked this book up yet? Why?

8/10 stars. This book is fantastical. 

SPOILERS BELOW FOR HEART OF BETRAYAL
I'm confused, how could the Vendan's have gotten Walther's sword and stuff. I'm pretty sure I remember her burying his sword and stuff with him... 
I actually guessed from very early on in the book that Kaden was not actually Vendan. It hints very subtly towards it when it says he has other reasons to despise the gift and that he was the one who taught the Komizar Morrighese. 
Yeah, if I was Lia I'd be pretty pissed at both Kaden and Rafe for lying to me. Rafe because it seems like he was using Lia and Kaden, well, I don't really need to explain her anger at Kaden. He did kidnap her. Though, he told her it was because he couldn't kill her, which I thought was pretty cute. Yeah, books have a way of messing up normal people's versions of cute. 
Okay, I get that Jezelia always seemed to fit Lia more but personally I like the name Arabella more. 
When Kaden said "She'll stay in my quarters." I started laughing because, oh, Rafe must really be loving that. And then the Komizar had Lia choose between Rafe and Kaden which was a very smart move. He's a cunning guy or should I say he was a cunning guy? And then Lia kissed Kaden in front of everyone. aha. Rafe must've really wanted to kill Kaden. 
This whole book I felt so bad for Kaden. He's made his feelings for Lia evident and she uses it against him. How  could she do that? It's just cruel and that was my only problem with Lia in this book, Her using Kaden's feelings against him. It really pissed me off. Especially when he told her about his vision of the two of them and she used that against him, too. I really wanted to punch that girl in the face. 
But when it was revealed Kaden had the gift I was like WTF?! Really?! Mary E. Pearson couldn't help but slip in that plot twist. These books always have good plot twists, (haha I say that after reading two books) okay the reveal that Kaden was the assassin and Rafe the prince was hinted at and rereading the book I could see it but it was still bit confusing but I still count that as a good plot twist. 
Pauline's point of view opened up an interesting question in my head. Is Lia's mom evil and or up to something ? I have a feeling this will come into play later in the book but for now... I really want to know what's up with her mom. 
Kaden and Rafe fighting shoulder to shoulder was slash is revolutionary. It's amazing that they're fighting together. 
My biggest question for the next book is WHAT THE EF HAPPENED TO KADEN?!!!! He better be okay. But of course he's not fully okay, he knows Lia's been playing and betraying him the entire time... Poor Kaden. I hope he doesn't turn on Lia and hate her... 
I seriously can't wait for the next book. 
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The Queen Of The Tearling by Erika Johansen

8/8/2015

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“The future was only disasters of the past, waiting to happen anew.” 
I thought I would hate this book. Yeah, thought but I was pleasantly surprised. Okay, it wasn't too impressed but there were some interesting parts in this book as well as intriguing characters. As many other people have said, it was a little too wordy. Okay, it was overly descriptive. Like it would go into detail about one thing and take up about seven paragraphs. Like I said before, there were some interesting scenes but in between those interesting scenes were wordy, boring pieces. The only thing to get me through those pieces were the interesting characters, and waiting for the next interesting part (as dreading there wouldn't be one). Seriously, the beginning of the story was so boring and I just wanted it to be over. The biggest reason why I am so impressed with the story was because I started it out thinking I'd hate it and ended up being almost interested. When you start out a book with negative feelings, it's hard to actually enjoy it. But I kinda did. 
You may be wondering why I started it with such negative feelings. I heard it was romance free. Not that I need romance to enjoy a book, it's just most books I've read without romance or with little romance I found quite boring. (*cough* *cough* Maze Runner) 
And yet I unwillingly found myself becoming slightly interested with the plot and characters. Well, more the characters than the plot but there's a little bit about the plot that I'm curious about. The two characters I found the most intriguing and dare I say, liked the most? Were Mace and Fetcher. I'm a little confused on the ages though, how old is Mace? Thirty something? and Fetcher must reallyy be old and who the heck is Fetcher? 
I really appreciated the loyalty of the Queen's Guard. I found it very impressive. It was very... touching and cute how devoted they were to the Queen. 
Kelsea was an interesting main character. She acted a bit childish at times but mostly she seemed like a good, strong queen. I appreciated how much she actually stepped up to her crown and how strong she was. Like during the coronation (if you read the book you'd know what I'm talking about) 
I'm going to give this book 6/10 stars. It had an interesting plot that seems like it would get more interesting in the next book (as well as more of a romance in the second book?) I plan on continuing the series. 

Synopsis:
An untested young princess must claim her throne, learn to become a queen, and combat a malevolent sorceress in an epic battle between light and darkness in this spectacular debut—the first novel in a trilogy.

Young Kelsea Raleigh was raised in hiding after the death of her mother, Queen Elyssa, far from the intrigues of the royal Keep and in the care of two devoted servants who pledged their lives to protect her. Growing up in a cottage deep in the woods, Kelsea knows little of her kingdom's haunted past . . . or that its fate will soon rest in her hands.

Long ago, Kelsea's forefathers sailed away from a decaying world to establish a new land free of modern technology. Three hundred years later, this feudal society has divided into three fearful nations who pay duties to a fourth: the powerful Mortmesne, ruled by the cunning Red Queen. Now, on Kelsea's nineteenth birthday, the tattered remnants of the Queen's Guard—loyal soldiers who protect the throne—have appeared to escort the princess on a perilous journey to the capital to ascend to her rightful place as the new Queen of the Tearling.

Though born of royal blood and in possession of the Tear sapphire, a jewel of immense power and magic, Kelsea has never felt more uncertain of her ability to rule. But the shocking evil she discovers in the heart of her realm will precipitate an act of immense daring, throwing the entire kingdom into turmoil—and unleashing the Red Queen's vengeance. A cabal of enemies with an array of deadly weapons, from crimson-caped assassins to the darkest blood magic, plots to destroy her. But Kelsea is growing in strength and stealth, her steely resolve earning her loyal allies, including the Queen's Guard, led by the enigmatic Lazarus, and the intriguing outlaw known simply as "the Fetch."

Kelsea's quest to save her kingdom and meet her destiny has only just begun. Riddled with mysteries, betrayals, and treacherous battles, Kelsea's journey is a trial by fire that will either forge a legend . . . or destroy her.
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Every Last BReath by Jennifer L. Armentrout

8/7/2015

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"When is there ever a right time to fully give your heart to another? There are always going to be obstacles. You just have to decide which ones are worth it." 

Jennifer Armentrout is one of my favorite authors of all time. One of the most amazing things about her is that she writes a bunch of books and publishes them every year. Most authors only publish one or two books a year. In fact, Jennifer wrote these books- the Dark Elements and had it published in about a year. Amazing, huh? Like all of Jennifer's books, Every Last Breath was a fun, sarcastic and all together amazingly written book. The action scenes were on point and the romance was breath taking. Trust me, this series is not one you'll want to miss out on. The first book is called White Hot Kiss and it was released a little over a year ago. I can promise there will be  no spoilers in this part from Every Last Breath but I can't promise it to be spoiler free for the previous two books. Now, if you've yet to read the first two books, I don't know what you've been doing but now you should go pick up the first book, White Hot Kiss from a bookstore near you. 

"I'm not here. Nope. I'm not the awkward third party, having to witness you two eat each other's face." 

Here's the synopsis for White Hot Kiss: 
One kiss could be the last. 

Seventeen-year-old Layla just wants to be normal. But with a kiss that kills anything with a soul, she's anything but normal. Half demon, half gargoyle, Layla has abilities no one else possesses. 

Raised among the Wardens—a race of gargoyles tasked with hunting demons and keeping humanity safe—Layla tries to fit in, but that means hiding her own dark side from those she loves the most. Especially Zayne, the swoon-worthy, incredibly gorgeous and completely off-limits Warden she's crushed on since forever. 

Then she meets Roth—a tattooed, sinfully hot demon who claims to know all her secrets. Layla knows she should stay away, but she's not sure she wants to—especially when that whole no-kissing thing isn't an issue, considering Roth has no soul. 

But when Layla discovers she's the reason for the violent demon uprising, trusting Roth could not only ruin her chances with Zayne… it could brand her a traitor to her family. Worse yet, it could become a one-way ticket to the end of the world.

"I still want to strangle you. But in the most loving way possible."

Anyway back to my review of Every Last Breath. It was not a let down from the rest of the books. Even though the book wasn't especially long, the ending didn't feel rushed. The book actually felt perfect, in the way it was written and how the story ended. If you didn't know, this book is different from any other book written. Why? Because Jennifer held a vote online between the two boys- Roth and Zayne and whoever was voted the most got chosen by Layla in this book. Obviously I'm not going to say who won, but I can tell you that Layla chose a lot earlier in the story than I suspected. 
Every Last Breath is a thrilling and fantastic ending to the Dark Elements Trilogy. I'm sad to see it be over.  I'm giving this book an 8/10 stars because it was a great book and I found myself satisfied at the end. Guys, guys, Gena Showalter wrote the blurb on the front! How awesome is that?




SPOILERS BELOW FOR EVERY LAST BREATH


I was almost positive Layla would choose Roth when I started the book. But then I started to feel a little more hesitant. I started worrying that maybe all that time I spent voting wouldn't mean anything and that maybe Zayne would win out. If that happened I'm not sure if I could finish the book. I feel that I'm kind of a bad person on the Zayne thing. Why? Because I was laughing joyfully as she told Zayne it wasn't him she loved and he got angry. 
Aw when Layla came back and Roth and the familiars were ridiculously drunk? That was so great. Loved that scene. Having Layla and Roth together for the majority of the book was heaven for me. Yeah, heaven with the prince of hell. the crowned prince of hell. 
I was laughing so hard when Thumper came out play.
"You... you have a...a pocket-size dragon?" 
---
"Is it... stomping its feet?" 
"He doesn't get out much." 
"For obvious reasons." 
---
"Alphas had Facebook Accounts?" 
Yeah, and hell uses massive group text messages.
---
"Don't hate. Procreate." Best line of the book. 
---
"You boinked Lilith." 
HAHA the confrontation with Elijah was interesting. I wasn't exactly expecting that but then the Lilin saved Layla... and became Elijah. I was kinda sad we never really got to say goodbye to Sam, but that's how life is sometimes- you don't get to say goodbye. 
---
"I think your mind just went into the gutter." 
"Shortie, my mind exists there." 
--
This is something I'm curious about, can familiars die? I thought we might see Bambi die in this book but... :( Bambi got taken away by that horrid witch coven. I can't believe that happened and whenever I think about it, it makes me increasingly sad. Poor Bambi. Hey, if Bambi killed the whole witch coven would that count as Roth backing out of his deal? Here's a bright spot- Layla and Roth have eternity to wait for the coven to die, then they can take Bambi back!

"Dumbass sighed. "I'm Robin. You know, your real familiar. Not the parasite who needs to go back to Daddy."" 
Seriously, even though I dislike real tattoos- if I could get a familiar, I'd get a bunch. Yeah, I'd probably get some kittens and a dragon and probably a unicorn just to be awesome.... if familiars existed I'd be covered in tattoos...... Maybe it's a good thing they don't exist. 
--
I found it surprising that Lilith saved Layla. Definitely was not expecting that one. Though, it's unclear if she did it to save herself or not I'm choosing to give Lilith the benefit of the doubt. Also, she did say she felt the purest form of love when she first held Layla so.... 

WHO THE HECK IS MORRIS?! He gives Roth the creeps and hangs out with the Boss.... I'm confuddled.



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Secret Girlfriend by Bria Quinlan

8/6/2015

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I was not particularly impressed by this book. I don't know, something about it made it seem rather childish. Even the cover seems pretty childish to me. Amy was a very annoying protagonist. First off, why the heck would she agree to be someone's secret girlfriend? He obviously doesn't respect you that much if he's embarrassed to be dating you. And if that wasn't evident by him wanting their relationship to be secret, it because obvious when he didn't want her coming anywhere and telling her she wasn't invited places. Oh, and him ditching their dates and stuff for some other girl. Seriously, I would've dumped that guy three pages into the book. Actually I wouldn't have gone out with him in the first place. I get it, he's her dream guy and all that chiz. BUT SERIOUSLY. One of the reasons I was so annoyed with this book was because Amy had like no self respect. Just dump Chris and be done with it. Then there's Luke, he's a nice, sweet guy who's obviously into Amy. WHY WOULDN'T SHE GO OUT WITH HIM? he's hot and southern too. Some nice pluses. Amy just needs to grow up and stop  kidding herself. Chris doesn't actually care about her! The whole time I was reading this book I found myself more annoyed than enjoying it. Sure, it got better towards the end but... This book was just irritating to me. Amy just keeps making excuses for Chris and after the first time it was just really annoying. 
Now after that rant... It was pretty amusing seeing Chris and Luke fight over Amy.... I do like that kind of love triangle drama. Though this one was rather annoying. (if you couldn't gather that from my earlier rant) This story gets a 6/10 stars and I feel that rating is quite generous because I'm rather tempted to push it down to 5. I don't exactly recommend this book. If you're looking for a good romance drama, there are plenty other, better books to read. 
Synopsis: 
Since her mom died, Amy Whalen’s been invisible—but not in the cool, superpower kind of way. Overlooked at school and ignored at home, Amy holds tight to her few constants: running, painting, and her long-held crush on soccer god, Chris Kent. But as senior year nears, Chris doesn’t just notice her, he needs her.

Amy will agree to almost anything to be with him.

Everything is great—sort of—until Luke Parker shows up for soccer tryouts and sees through every one of Amy’s defenses. When Luke decides he wants Chris’s spot on the team and wouldn’t sneeze at the captain’s jersey either their rivalry spins out of control.

It doesn’t help that Luke also wants the girl Chris kept hidden all summer: AMY.

YA ROMANCE BY GOLDEN HEART FINALIST, BRIA QUINLAN
 
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    Anji Cooper

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