This book confuses me. It is loaded with contradictions.
Sometimes I liked Brooke, sometimes I didn't. She was supposedly a genius (albeit a reluctant...moreThis book confuses me. It is loaded with contradictions.
Sometimes I liked Brooke, sometimes I didn't. She was supposedly a genius (albeit a reluctant one), but then she goes and does something as infinitely stupid as moving to a whole new city for a boy. A boy she has only had one conversation with. It just confounded me. What kind of person thinks that is a good idea? And then she actually thought about telling Scott what a stalker she was, before they even developed a friendship. Once again, who thinks that is a good idea? It just defies all common sense. I was very much prepared to hate Brooke, but by the end of the book, I had a small affection for her. Very small.
Brooke was supposed to be this cynical genius, but I never got that impression. I found her quite flippant. She supposedly didn't trust people, but that conflicted with her faith in her "knowing", a gut feeling that told her that Scott (the guy she moved to NYC to be with) was her true love. It just didn't make sense that someone who was supposedly torn up over her parent's divorce was so willing to drop everything for love (or obsession rather).
I wish Colasanti had just left romance out of it. This book would have been more enjoyable if Brooke was just moving to the city on a self-discovery mission instead of for some boy. The most relatable aspects of the book for me was Brooke's indecisiveness over what she wanted to do with the her life. I'm a senior in high school going through all that crap now, so I could relate. I wish this book was just about that. Leave Scott out of it.
The writing was easy and breezy, although it wasn't particularly fun. It was just a quick and light three or four hour read. Some people looking for some light distraction will like it, but those looking for some realistic fiction with depth will be disappointed. (less)
Andi Alpers, a troubled Brooklyn teen, is always one step away from the edge. The only thing keeping her going over is her love of music, but even tha...moreAndi Alpers, a troubled Brooklyn teen, is always one step away from the edge. The only thing keeping her going over is her love of music, but even that doesn't seem enough at times. Two years ago her younger brother, the glue keeping her family together, died. Now her mother, a talented French painter, is suffering from a psychotic break down, and her father, a workaholic scientist, refuses to acknowledge his old family while he lives a new life. Andi is content with flunking out of her prestigious liberal high school, but her father, in a rare burst of parental concern, forces her to come with him to Paris so she can focus on working on a project that might save her grade. Her father is called to Paris because a colleague of his, a famous historian, needs his help in identifying a shriveled up heart encased in crystal that might just belong to the young Louis XVII, the son of King Louis XVI, who was guillotined in the French Revolution. While shifting through some artifacts, Andi discovers the long-hidden journal of Alexandrine, an aspiring actress and companion to young Louis, who is struggling to save herself and her charge. Whilst reading this diary, the fates of the two young women are woven together, and Andi will come to discover that internal revolutions are just as affecting as external ones.
I loved this book. It was lovely. The writing was beautiful, lyrical, and intricate. Andi was intriguing and relatable. Sometimes her constant negative attitude, especially towards the beginning, could become bothersome, but she was extremely interesting. Her sarcastic comments were often funny, and she had a lot going on underneath the surface. Her feelings, as well as her love for music, seemed to transcend the page. I loved Alexandrine too. Although she was in the book less than Andi, her role in it was just as vital. One thing I loved about this story was how everything connected. I could mentally see the puzzle pieces coming together, and it was a thrill to watch everything unfold. Also, I learned a buttload about the French Revolution, but it never seemed like I was reading a text book. I can tell Ms. Donnelly did her research, and it was very in-depth and well-done.
The only thing I did not like were the hints of the supernatural. To explain myself without giving away to much of the plot, I will say that this book is a lot like the movie Happy Feet. I do not mean to allude that there were dancing penguins in the streets of Paris. But, you know how towards the end of the movie, the plot does a complete 360, and the film is no longer about cute tap-dancing birds, but rather some heavy-handed environmental message? This book is kind of like that. Towards the end, it took a really sharp turn, and I'm not sure whether what happened was real or not. I mean, I guess it worked, but it shook me out of the story for a little bit. That's what kept me from giving this novel 5 stars.
Anyway, I recommend this book. I recommend it to fans of A Northern Light. I recommend it to fans of historical-fiction. I recommend it to those interested in a more personal look at the French Revolution. I recommend it to music lovers. And I recommend it for anyone looking for a satisfying, thought-provoking read.
An awesome read that will stay with me. I have a feeling it will help me when my history class studies the French Revolution next month. (less)
17 yr old Maddie lives in the year 2060, where everything, from dating, schooling, and going to the movies, is done online. Ever since her disastrous...more17 yr old Maddie lives in the year 2060, where everything, from dating, schooling, and going to the movies, is done online. Ever since her disastrous rebellion two years before nearly caused her and her father to go to jail, Maddie has lived compliantly with this life, never complaining or yearning for actual physical contact. One day Maddie meets a boy online in school chatroom, and he invites her to actual go to a real tutor session. Maddie agrees and that is how Justin enters her life. Justin is wild and unpredictable, being here for one minute and leaving the next. He hates everything about society nowadays, and embraces actual social interactions. Justin shows Maddie that the best things in life aren't behind the computer screen. Maddie can feel herself falling in love with Justin, even though her father, the founder of Digital School, forbids it. Maddie is torn between doing what is right for her family, and doing what might be right for the world.
This was a good piece of YA dystopian fiction. The world-building was excellent, probably because it is not too hard to imagine a world like Maddie's, seeing as society seems to be heading there anyways. I know I am lazy. I know I depend too much on my cell phone and my laptop. I know that's bad for me. But unfortunately, one of things I disliked about this book is it preachiness. I felt I was getting beamed on the head with my Mac. COMPUTERS BAD. PHYSICAL EXPERIENCES GOOD. Yeah, yeah, yeah. I get it. At least I've seen fire and live music and I have real trees unlike Maddie SO THERE. It's kind of ironic though, because I was reading this book online.....
Maddie was a good narrator. She actually had some hutzpah and wasn't some passive, dependent troll. She actually proved she was intelligent instead of just reading Wuthering Heights for the four billionth time, like that means anything. I liked Maddie. Justin.....eh. Yeah, he was hot, I guess, but most of the preachiness came from him. If he goes on a rant one more time....I also didn't like that he had "I will be aloof to the woman I love because I am not good enough for her" syndrome. Dude, come one. Have some respect. I don't like it when protag love interests think that they know what is better for the protagonist more than the protagonist does.
I really liked the first half of the book, but something threw me off about the second half. It's like someone poured cold water on the book and yelled WAAAIIITTT. I think the sexual tension between Maddie and Justin was drawn out too long. Every time they walked away kiss-less from each other, I let out a frustrated sigh. The second half of the book was mostly on Justin/Maddie romance, and that was Maddie pining for Justin most of the time. The final action scene also felt really contrived.
And guess what! There was a character named Clare that I didn't hate! I'm improving!
Overall, a decent YA dystopian fiction. I wanna know what happens next realz bad.
Sarah feels like an outcast at her new school, a feeling only exemplified when her science class goes on a field trip to the Everglades. So when a loc...moreSarah feels like an outcast at her new school, a feeling only exemplified when her science class goes on a field trip to the Everglades. So when a local boy named Andy offers her an unauthorized airboat ride, she jumps at the chance to get away from her snarky classmates, and pretends to be sick so she can sneak off. Andy takes her to the heart of the swamp, but once there a horrible accident occurs. Their boat sinks. Now stranded in the middle of the Everglades, surrounded by gators, poisonous snakes, and miles of swamp, these two teenagers will have to wade across the river of grass if they want to survive.
This book taught me a few things: 1. I would not last five minutes in the Everglades 2. Spam isn't all that bad when you are starving 3. Don't let the boy hold the gatorade 4. I'm a cold-hearted person because I would have let that little duck die 5. The difference between the kingsnake and coral snake 6. Gators dig holes 7. 13 yr old girls are dumb
This whole book is because of a pretty poor decision. No, not the one made by Andy, because he forgot to do something to the boat which caused it to sink, but the one made by Sarah. Now, in what universe is it okay to go off with a boy you don't know in the middle of the wilderness without telling anyone else where you are going? Hmmmm? Even aliens ain't that stupid. But she is only 13, and lonely, and she was kind of smart the rest of the time, so I'll let this one slide. But let this serve as a warning. Go off alone with a boy and you will get eaten alive by mosquitos.
Anyway, this was a quick read, and a refreshing one. It was a good ol' fashioned book about survival, and not one about surviving the end of the world, or something like that. This book is a good one for people looking to get away from the vapid drama of most YA novels. These kids here got some real problems.
There were a few other little things that annoyed me besides the blatant mistake of the narrator. First off, Livestrong bracelets? Soooo 2005. Second off, the short (thank heavens) conversation about smoking pot was painful to read about. I think the author should stick to writing adventure novels and never foray into contemporary YA lit. And lastly, I had no idea the main character was black. Was this mentioned in the beginning of the novel and I missed it? I was imagining Sarah as some fair-skinned, blonde girl, but nope. In the last chapters she was all like "I'm black!!" It just threw me off that the picture I made through out the entire book was wrong.
Overall, not something I would usually pick up, so it was different. it reminded me off all the survival books I had to read in sixth grade (Julie of the Wolves, Hatchet, My Side of the Mountain), and its nice to see the genre isn't dead.
Thank you Netgalley for letting me view a copy!(less)
In this book, not only are vampires real and known, they are taking over the world, with only small numb...more At least thats one thing this book got right.
In this book, not only are vampires real and known, they are taking over the world, with only small numbers of Hunters to fight them off. The Salamancan Hunters are a band of Hunters, the first of its kind, and by the way things are going, it may be the last. This hodge-podge band of fighters are having a wee bit of trouble getting along. Even though they are based in Spain, they all come from different parts of the world. There is Eriko, a former Japanese school girl, and the silent leader of the band; Jamie, a hot-headed Irishman with an immense hatred for werewolves, vampires, and the English; Skye, a witch from England with a dark secret threatening to rear its ugly head; Holgar, a secretive Danish werewolf; Antonio, a Spanish vampire severely devoted to Catholicism; and lastly, Just Jenn, a nothing-special from California. Not only do these hunters have to fight the prejudices and suspicions amongst themselves, they have a full-out war on their hands. Jenn's younger sister has been kidnapped by a manipulative and powerful vampire, and the group must come together to get her back, hopefully alive.
Gah. Sounds like an interesting cast, right? Not exactly. Jenn, the MC, is pretty much insufferable. She has worse self-esteem than Charlie Brown. Jenn refers to herself as "Just Jenn", meaning that she feels inferior to the rest of the group. Well, most of the time, she is right. It was only when she is California by herself that she shows any sign of bad-assery. Whenever she is with Antonio (her lurver), she turns into some limp noodle that must be carried from room to room because she is too distraught and tired to pick her own ass up. Characters are constantly insisting that she is "special", but she insists she's not (a point I can agree on). But still. She should have some confidence. She went to an academy with 90 young adults in her class. Out of those 90, only one-third of them made it to graduation. Out of the thirty that graduated, only 16 or so survived the final test. Out of those sixteen, only six got to be hunters. So have some pride, girl, you've obviously had enough balls to get you this far.
The rest of the characters were also unlikable. Actually, I take that back. I liked Holgar. He was nice and didn't annoy me. Eriko, I didn't really like or dislike. She was rarely in the story, and was uninteresting for the most part. Skye was annoying because she is keeping a secret that could get them all killed, and chooses her secrecy over the well-being of the rest of the group. Also, she gave no explanation as to why she was in love with Jamie. Personally, I think she should end up with Holgar. I was sensing some vibes. Jamie was a douche bag. There is a line between being charmingly hot-headed and being a jackass, and he was one the jackass side of the line. Seriously, this guy needs to STFU. He had too bring up his werewolf prejudice in every goddam conversation, and its him that will get the group killed, not Holgar (Holgar, I gotcha back). And then there was Antonio......Guess what he wanted to be when he grew up. Go ahead, guess. That's right! He wanted to be priest. Howdya know? Could it be that it was mentioned on EVERY GODDAMN PAGE?! You're Catholic. I get it. You probably shouldn't be trying to get in Jenn's pants then.
The romance between Antonio and Jenn, supposedly a driving force behind this novel, was the most lackluster, chemistry-less coupling I ever read. Seriously, it was horrible. I won't even got into how absolutely terrible it was because it makes my lip just now stopped curling, and I don't want my face to get stuck in a grimace.
This novel tried to give it's characters depth through multiple perspectives, which is a tool, when done right, is extremely interesting and effective. This book failed miserably at it. The narrative had absolutely no focus, and would shift perspectives in the middle of the page, which made it confusing and frustrating. It also failed in creating three-dimensional characters, because in attempting to give everyone a voice, it skimped out on everyone. I couldn't care less if everyone in this book died. I have absolutely no attachment to them, and frankly, I was hoping someone would stab Jenn most of the time. Ironically, the only truly intriguing character was the villain, but unfortunately, to finish hearing out her story, I would have to read more books in the series, which is something I will not do.
The writing was just bad. There was nothing unique, purposeful, or enjoyable about the style, and for some reason, I despised it. As soon as I read the first paragraph I was like "Oh shit". I knew then I was in trouble. But yet I hoped the characters or plot would pull through. Nope.
Overall, this book was a such a flippin' mess. The writing irked me to no end, and the characters were all pretty stupid. I ended up skimming most of the second half of the novel. Most people say it starts out slow, and then gets better, but no. It pretty much sucks the whole way through.
I'm just kidding. When there is a zombie apocalypse (no, not if), I'm about 98% sure I would not survive. I would be like those...more
I am. I so am. BRING IT
I'm just kidding. When there is a zombie apocalypse (no, not if), I'm about 98% sure I would not survive. I would be like those chicks in horror movies who get killed off in the opening credits. But there is the 2% I do survive initially, and then after that, I have a plan.
I am skilled in no way shape or form. I hate the wilderness and physical activity. I am not a quick thinker and I panic under pressure. So basically, I am screwed unless I find Tom Imura. Tom Imura was one of the main reasons I enjoyed this book. He is basically a calm, sexy zombie-slaying Samurai. My plan is to marry him. I know, I know. How Mary-Suish of me. Well STFU, in retrospect this is for the good of America. This way we can have lots of half-Japanese zombie-killing offspring, and God knows the world needs more of those.
Benny, the MC, is not as good as Tom. He is like a non-sexy, less-Asian bratty version of him. In the beginning of the novel, he was close to insufferable and I wanted to stab him with a katana (This book taught me Japanese!). Think of him as Harry Potter a la Book 5. But he did show growth and development and yada yada yada and by the end of the book he actually resembled a likable human being. But still not as awesome as Tom.
I liked this book, but it was nothing close to fantastic for me. Despite the heavy themes, I was never emotionally invested in it. I disliked the writing, and even though the characters are developed, I never felt an attachment to them. This is entirely personal, however, and thats why I won't make too big of a stink about it.
It was a good zombie book. Not all about the braaaaaiiiiinzzzz. Zombies are people too. Albeit, dead ones.
I am pretty much the last person in my group of friends to review this book, which is ironic because I was the first one to finish it. But I'm lazy so...moreI am pretty much the last person in my group of friends to review this book, which is ironic because I was the first one to finish it. But I'm lazy so here I am with nothing to say.
Um.....I was expecting more. The writing was good and Seth was funny and real and yada yada yada but I wanted it to be darker. Is that a sick thing to say? That I wanted this kid to be more screwed up? But its true. I kind of felt like this novel was a well-written anti-climax.
I'm warning you now. This is more of a rant than a cohesive, intelligent review. It will be filled with spoilers and un-ladylike language, so people o...moreI'm warning you now. This is more of a rant than a cohesive, intelligent review. It will be filled with spoilers and un-ladylike language, so people of delicate sensibilities take heed.
I like Hilary Duff. I grew up with her in Lizzie Maguire, and even rocked the Lizzie hairstyle for a while. I think she has grown into a nice young starlet as opposed to, well, this
I was curious about this book after seeing her name on it. I was interested. How much of it did Hilary actually write? Did she just tell Elise Allen "write about soulmates" and then go and get a manicure? Or did she come up with plot herself, with Elise Allen only writing it down on paper? I think, after reading it, that I know the answer. I believe this is how the conception of this book transpired:
Hilary's manager walks into Borders mistakenly, absolutely absorbed into keying things into his Blackberry. It is only when he walks into a table, toppling over a pile of books, that he looks up and acknowledges his surroundings. Hey! This isn't Saks! But then his eye is drawn to a picture of Lauren Conrad on the back of Sweet Little Lies. He smirks, because he has his suspicions how much of the book Lauren actually wrote. Surprisingly, he sees multiple teenagers in the check-out line with the book in hand. Hmmpp, he thinks, Hilary is ten times prettier and smarter and nicer than LC Then a brilliant idea forms in his head. Hilary's name + YA book = new sports car. Excitedly, he gathers a copy of every YA book in the store and rushes back to the office to make some phone calls. Hey, Hilary, babe….how would you like to write the ultimate YA book?
Next time, Hilary, just say no.
This book infuriated me. How stupid do publishers think teens are? This is the same typical formula for every other YA paranormal book out there, except wrapped up in a different dress.
There was nothing special about it. No spark. The writing was dead and lifeless, as were all the characters. I was bored out of my mind with the predictability of it all when I wasn't in a rage of seething hot fury.
Clea Raymond, the narrator, is horrible. She has no personality, and nothing that distinguishes her from every other YA heroine out there. Her name is also too close to "Claire" for my liking, and those of you who've read my other rants know my reasoning for that. Clea is a stupid, vapid girl, who became absolutely insufferable after she discovered *ahem* tru wuv. That's right, folks, she has a soulmate. But don't be too jealous of her now. She also has the inexplicable burden of being caught in the middle of a love triangle. What would a YA book be without one of those? Of course, Clea had no idea her BFF Ben, had feelings for her until he started being a jealous prick. Clea, you give a bad name to women everywhere. We are girls. We always know. Platonic friends, my ass.
Of course, I could have forgiven the book for this. Love triangles are a staple because they create drama and act as filler. Except this one was so blatantly one-sided. We all know Clea lllllluuuuuurrrrvvvvessss Sage (her soulmate guy), who is also immortal. Clea herself is kind of immortal, but more on that later. I might be spoiling things a little here, but suck it up. I'm trying to save you here. Clea and Sage had known each other less than a week. At first, Clea thought he was a crazy stalker. Then she thought he was a serial killer deadset on sending her to the grave. Then all the sudden they were kissing, telling each other how much they loved each other, and having sex in a car. First off, if a guy (with the exception of Leonardo DiCaprio) lets you lose your virginity in car, he does not really love you. Second off, this guy has been around for 500 years. Do you know how many STDs he could have contracted in that time? I don't care if he's immortal. As my health teacher said, herpes can affect anybody. And lastly, WTF CLEA?!! You have known this guy one week and up until a few hours ago you thought he was going to kill you!!!!!!! WHY! And then of course, from then on, it causes her physical pain to be away from her Sagey-poo. Gag me.
I blame Clea's whore friend, Rayna. Rayna, as Clea describes her, is a "romantic" who finds a new "soulmate" everytime she leaves the house. There are words for those kinds of girls, so don't go beating around the bush. Anyway, Rayna gives Clea the poetic advice of "don't think, just feel" right before Clea goes off alone with Sage, the soulmate/stranger/serial killer. NO NO NO. Think first, Clea, think first!! Do you want to become a statistic? This book is all your fault, Rayna, and I hate you.
When everyone wasn't talking about soulmates, they were trying to figure out the mystery of where Clea's father disappeared to. Of course, the focus of the book turned to Sage as soon as he appeared. But anyway, the beginning was rather slow, but then everything happened like BAM!BAM!BAM!. Any information the reader found out was in clumps under circumstances that were too convenient for my liking. It was frustrating. A part I did enjoy was all of Clea's past lives, but those were clumped up and rushed. I think it would have been better to have them dispersed throughout the novel. The ending was also extremely abrupt with so many questions unanswered, I wanted to punch a baby at first. But then I realized the book was over, so then I felt happy again. Here are a list of my questions/complaints:
1. Does Clea not have to go to school? I'm not sure what time of the year this book is taking place, but Clea is still able to drop everything and go to South America or Japan whenever she feels like it. With only two boys for company. 2. Why do people in Japan know who Clea is? Since when is being a senator's daughter such a flippin' big deal that people on the other side of the world know who you are? I don't even know my Senators' names. 3. Why is Clea's mother so horrible? She just let's Clea have total independence. Want to go to Peru? Go ahead! Guam? Why not! Afghanistan? Be sure to bring lots of sunscreen! And you would think, her daughter apparently being such a big deal and all, she might have Clea assigned a body guard or something? Nope. 4. Why does Clea love Sage? He has no personality. She literally just decides she loves him. They didn't even have great chemistry. 5. Why are Clea and Ben immortal too? I understand Sage, somewhat, since he drank the elixir. But there is not explanation for Clea and Ben to have their souls being reborn again and again, and at random intervals. 6. What's a soul? I know what my definition of a soul is, but this book has me all confused. Why is Clea so talented in some lives, like being a singer, artist, or actress, but has no apparent talent in this life? Does a soul just mean you have the same personality (or lack of it)? 7. Why does Sage show up in Clea's pictures? Why is he sometimes floating and sometimes not? GAH NO SENSE 8. Is this the only time Clea is aware of her past lives?, or has she had the same dreams in her past? 9. Since Ben always seems to be the problem, why don't they just KILL HIM? There, problem solved. See you again in another hundred years.
I'm just so done with these crappy YA paranormals. They are all the same. My intelligence is being insulted. (less)
It's Violet's junior year at the Westfield School, a competitive all-girl prep school. Violet has a few goals to accomplish. She wants straight A's, p...moreIt's Violet's junior year at the Westfield School, a competitive all-girl prep school. Violet has a few goals to accomplish. She wants straight A's, producing the best lit mag the school has ever seen, and for the perfect Scott Walsh to fall in love with her. This would be daunting on one's own, but Violet has her best friend Katie to back her up. However, something is different about Katie. She isn't content being the perfect Westfield girl, where everything is just so easy for her, and this isn't something Violet easily understands. With all this drama and pressure, will Violet survive her junior year?
Okay, hearing the book was set in a ritzy school, as well as the cover and title, I was expecting some smutty prep school story, filled with backstabbing bitches and girls that sleep around. It turned out to be completely wrong. Well, that stuff might have been going on, but behind the scenes. Violet isn't some quiet girl that every guy inexplicably falls in love with, like I expected, but she's an ordinary girl. I saw so much of myself in Violet it was scary. She is an overachiever with no experience with boys, who has an extremely awesome sense of humor. I liked how Violet actually proved to be intelligent instead of the author just telling us she's intelligent. If ever there was a female president, I nominate Violet I-forget-her-last-name.
This book was extremely funny in a honest way. There where times where I laughed so hard, the bit of pretzel I was chewing flew out of my mouth and hit the computer screen. Gross, I know, but also extremely telling as to the hilarity of the novel.
This book was truly a story about friendship, but it wasn't sappy. I hate sappy little stories about "true friends" and will avoid them at any cost. They piss me off. It's all like "Really?? You would die for each other??" Would you care to test that?" *I pull out a machete* But Violet and Katie's friendship wasn't like that. It was filled with inside jokes,a long history and a shared sense of humor, with just a touch of rivalry. It seemed real.
There really wasn't a plot though. It seemed that each chapter was like a short story in it's own right. Extremely funny short stories. I'm still laughing at the "Family Jewels" chapter. Most of the first half was just building up the setting and backstory, where the second half had more plot.
Overall, an extremely funny, charming novel that I was not expecting. I absolutely adore Violet and her voice, and I wish the book would continue. I was quite upset to finish. I have a feeling this won't be the last book I read by Ms. Leila Sales. (less)
If you decided to read this book because you like the TV series on ABC Family, don't. The two have nothing in common besides the title, Wil's name, an...moreIf you decided to read this book because you like the TV series on ABC Family, don't. The two have nothing in common besides the title, Wil's name, and the concept of kids at fat camp. These differences don't necessarily mean one is worse than the other. No, there are plenty of more reasons for that. This is one of the few instances that the TV series has actually more plot, heart, and character development than the book.
One of things that really,truly pissed me off was all the brand name dropping. Good Lord! See, I'm not the most fashionable person in the world, or even remotely wealthy. I think Coach bags are ugly. Gucci sunglasses make people look like insects. Vera Bradley reminds me of diaper bags. Ugg boots are like bear feet. I don't want the word "Juicy" printed on my ass. I don't wear makeup unless forced to by my mother, for a costume of some sort, or when I fall asleep in public places. I wear clothes from Wal-Mart if I like them well enough. But the way this book makes it sound, brands are the most important thing in the world. There must have been over 200 references to brands in this book. This isn't Gossip Girl, Ms. Paley, it's fat camp. I understand that you want to emphasize the class differences between Wil and April, but its a little overboard to mention the brand of ALARM CLOCK like its the sort of thing everyone notices. Gosh, it was just so damn annoying.
And I laughed when it said "for Ages 12 and up" on the back cover. Please! What part of this book is inappropriate? Sure, there is the occasionally mild curse word and an obscure mentioning of "hooking up", but this book seemed like something more for ten year olds. I mean, this is the last sentence: "But nothing- nothing at all- was sweeter than leaving Wellness Canyon with a new best friend by her side." BLECH. And all the writing was just as cheesy and horrible.
This book also failed miserably at creating anything resembling interesting characters. They were predictable stereotypes. April overeagerness was absolutely cringe-worthy. I felt embarrassed for her most of the time. Wil, while slightly more likable, could shed her "tough exterior" and become just as cheesy as the rest of them when the situation arose. Jessica and Marci(?) were just popular girls, and Colin was nothing more than a mean jock. Just nothing special. The plot was also very tired. I felt like I was reading some Mary-Kate and Ashley junk.
Also, the overall message was just horrendous. You think that a message from a book about fat camp would be something like "be comfortable in your own shoes" or something, right? Nope! The thinnest girls were always the prettiest, and the characters only felt good once they saw the pounds being ticked off on the scale. Even Wil, who was confident in her body beforehand, sold out. Great.
Overall, a truly disappointing book. Its a good thing I won this book and didn't pay anything for it. I do recommend the TV show, though. Its infinitely better. (less)
Brie is your average self-absorbed teenage girl. Her main concerns are partying and trying to keep her boyfriend's interest. However, one night Brie r...moreBrie is your average self-absorbed teenage girl. Her main concerns are partying and trying to keep her boyfriend's interest. However, one night Brie receives horrible news: her older sister Faith was killed in a horrible accident. Brie and Faith weren't particularly close as Faith was devoutly religious, something Brie wasn't all that comfortable with. Despite their differences, when Faith dies, Brie's world collapses. She loses her boyfriend, best friend, and her parents are too distracted with their own grief to even notice her. And Brie isn't ready to move on. There is something unsettling about the circumstances of Faith's death….something that just doesn't add up. And Brie is determined to find out just what it is.
While this book certainly is original, it is nothing extraordinary. It takes patience to get through the meandering plot and it took me weeks to finish. Yet I persevered. It wasn't suspense that drew me in, but there was something so…..pleasant about the writing. I liked it.
There was a little too much religious talk for my tastes. Even Brie, who is one of the least religious characters in the book, discusses it quite a lot. It kind of makes me feel uncomfortable and guilty because I never go to church for the sole reason that I am too lazy to go to church of Sundays. Does mass have to be on a weekend? That's when I catch up on my beauty sleep. And homework. And Jersey Shore marathons.
As for the mystery-plot, there really was none. It seemed to be a suspended curiosity rather than an impending mystery. Brie just kind of ran around in circles while Tessa went all ninja. Things didn't turn action-y until the last fifty pages or so. Then it was like BAM.
But as I said before, there was something likable about it, some sort of endearing factor that kept me turning the pages.
I don't really recommend this book, but I won't dive-bomb you in the bookstore screaming "NNNNNNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!" if I see you pick it up ( I have been known to do this in the past, particularly with certain YA vampire books).(less)
The Demon's Covenant, the second book in a trilogy, takes place a few weeks after the events that occurred in The Demon's Lexicon. It follows Mae, onl...moreThe Demon's Covenant, the second book in a trilogy, takes place a few weeks after the events that occurred in The Demon's Lexicon. It follows Mae, only a secondary character in the first one, who now has to deal with the fact that her brother, Jamie, has magical powers and is being recruited from magicians everywhere, including the deadly Obsidian circle, now run by Gerald. Mae once again enlists the help of of brothers Nick and Alan, who are entangled in their fair share of dangerous magical dealings themselves. If you had not read the first one yet, I suggest not reading the rest of the review, as it is impossible to discuss this one without mentioning some major plot twists of the first book.
It took me forever to get into this book. It took me five days just to get through the first half (which is incredibly slow for me). But just around the halfway point, I sat down to read it for more than five minutes at a time and actually got sucked in. I'm not a big fan of the writing, I think that's it. It's in a limited 3rd person POV, which is a little strange. I'm spoiled with first person. I also don't like Mae too much.
Come to think of it, I like hardly any of the characters. Nick is an ass (albeit a hot one), Jamie's out-of-place flamboyancies can get annoying, and Mae is just frustrating. I like Alan though. He's sexy in a smart, nerdy, one-step-ahead-of-you way. But I'm glad the book isn't in his perspective or else I wouldn't get the joy of his deceptions and motives being revealed. I'm not really attached to any of the characters. I feel distanced from all of them, despite the fact that Nick and Mae have narrated. If they died, I would just shrug my shoulders. I do like how Brennan seems intent on sticking with her characterizations of the first book. Nick's a demon, incapable of human emotion, and goddammit he will stay that way. Romantic touchy-feelyness be damned.
This book is a helluva a lot more complex than the first one, especially with the characters and their romances. I nearly drew myself a chart. Everyone is in love with the wrong person (except Nick who can't love anybody) and it turned out to be nearly Shakespearean in proportions. Everyone also had their own motives and plans. I didn't know where to look or who to trust.
Perhaps my weak mind finds this series kind of overwhelming, but I just don't understand the magic system. I mean, I get it, but not really. I'm confused as to where a magician's power ends and a demon's power begins. How is it that Jamie can wield magic if he's never made an offering to a demon? Does the magic ever run out? Where do the demons go? How do people get to know about the magical universe if they are not magicians, messengers, or demons? Are those the only magical beings? I just don't understand. I also could not understand the action sequences for the life of me. I was all "Wicka wicka what?" And all the *ahem* witty dialogue coming from the peanut gallery was a little distracting.
Overall, I do kind of like this series. It's not bad, but not a favorite of mine. I definitely will continue on to the next installment. But if you absolutely despised the first installment, I doubt it'll get much better for you. If you did like first one, but largely because of *sarcastic swoon* Nick, then you probably won't like this one as much as you have less of him and more of our pink-haired heroine.
It takes a very special book that makes me want to hide all the characters in my closet. That's where I keep all my dinosaurs, so you know its good.
A...moreIt takes a very special book that makes me want to hide all the characters in my closet. That's where I keep all my dinosaurs, so you know its good.
I started this book the day the world ended. No, not in a literal 2012-tsunami-earthquake kinda way, but in a my-cell-phone-and-laptop-just-so-happene...moreI started this book the day the world ended. No, not in a literal 2012-tsunami-earthquake kinda way, but in a my-cell-phone-and-laptop-just-so-happened-to-break-on-the-same-day kinda way. And when you are a 17 year old girl, that is really, really bad. So while I was rolling around on the ground suffering from texting withdrawl, a thought occurred to me: Go read a book, you idjit! So I did. And in no time at all, I forgot the outside world existed.
To say I loved this book would be a severe understatement. So here is a list of adjectives I feel are adequate descriptions: (courtesy of Dictionary.com and my own unique vocabulary):
Awesome, addicting, seductive, intense, articulate, lush, fantasmic, suspenseful, beautiful, poetic, dark, amazing, unique, mysterious, romantic, excellent, gorgeous, wistful, eerie, superb, breathtaking, magnificent, wonderful, fascinating, Gothic, OMG, astounding, perfect, sublime, tender, painful, and last but not least, Jesus.
So, in short, it was damn good.
I just loved everything about it. The luscious writing, painfully real characters, intriguing premise and hushed tone. Everything, especially the ending, was just perfect. As soon as I was finished with it, I wanted to start it all over again (and I very nearly did).
Initially, I thought this book would scare the crap out of me, with the creepy cover and all. I read Laura Whitcomb's book The Fetch first, and I loved it, even though this novel is more universally loved. So perhaps I was biased going into it. But I'm positive I would have loved it no matter the scenario.
As for the SEQUEL *OMG SQUEAAAALLL*, I don't think it's really needed, but hey, I'll devour it anyway. I'm a little worried it won't be as good as Certain Slant. seeing as most unplanned sequels aren't, but even if its half as good, I'll still love it. (less)
I think this one might be my favorite in the series so far. It just seemed more suspenseful and "action packed" than the other ones. Despite the many...moreI think this one might be my favorite in the series so far. It just seemed more suspenseful and "action packed" than the other ones. Despite the many annoyances, I couldn't put this book down.
As for the identity of A and Ali's (supposed) killer, I would like to be all smart and say I knew who they were all along, but I honestly didn't. There were enough red herrings along the way that had me guessing the whole way.
But as for the girls, I just can't get over their life styles. I find the books unrelatable with all the brand name-dropping, and discussions of summer homes, and tennis courts, and country clubs. Sometimes it just gets ridiculous.
But I'm a bit concerned with how Shepard will write the other ones. I understand there is a new A, but isn't that kind of redundant? Wasn't the whole point of the books to find out who A and Ali's killer are? Now that we've done that, shouldn't they be over? If she wanted to, she could have easily tied up all the loose ends in this one. I just don't want to start all over again.
I'm honestly surprised that I don't hate this book. I was expecting too, since I don't like Twilight in the least. It turns out I can tolerate Stephen...moreI'm honestly surprised that I don't hate this book. I was expecting too, since I don't like Twilight in the least. It turns out I can tolerate Stephenie's writing when it is in small installments and not so sappy.
I'm sad for Bree, Diego, and Fred. I wished things turned out better for them, even though I knew that wasn't going to happen.
It was short and sweet, and I don't regret reading it. (less)
If I had been home long enough, I would have read this book in one sitting. But then again, maybe not.
I had to keep putting the book down because it...moreIf I had been home long enough, I would have read this book in one sitting. But then again, maybe not.
I had to keep putting the book down because it would get so intense. I felt hyper-aware of people watching me read this book, and I dreaded the question "Whats that book about?". My friend did ask me that, and when I told her, she said "But they're not really brother and sister, right?" Her face looked horrified. And I understand that. I have a younger brother and EEEEEEEEEEWWWWWW times a million. Yucky Yucky poo poo.
But disgust was only one of the various emotions I felt while reading this book. And despite everything, you do route for Maya and Lochan to somehow find a way to be together. The character development of the book was just plain awesome, as was the writing. Just read the first couple sentences:
"I gaze out at the small, crisp, burned-out black husks scattered across the chipped white paint of the windowsills. It is hard to believe that they were ever alive . I wonder what it would be like to be shut up in this airless glass box, slowly baked for two long months by the relentless sun, able to see the outdoors- the wind shaking the green trees right there in front of you- hurling yourself again and again at the invisible wall that seals you off from everything that is real and alive and necessary until you succumb: scorched, exhausted, overwhelmed by the impossibility of the task."
I read that and was like "Daaaaamn."
I connected to all the characters, including the little kiddos. I loved them and could imagine them as real people. I wanted to punch the mother and much more that I cannot say because I am a lady.. I am going to make a terrible parents shelf in her honor.
And I didn't cry while reading the book. I cried afterward. It was just an emotional journey, and any book that can make me feel like that is a good book in my opinion.
I wouldn't have picked this book up under normal circumstances. But everyone I talk to here on Goodreads adores it, so I felt compelled to give it a shot. And I'm glad I did. (less)
This was possibly one of the worst books I have ever read. I despised everything about it. The dumb-ass title. The dumb-ass cover. The dumb-ass charac...moreThis was possibly one of the worst books I have ever read. I despised everything about it. The dumb-ass title. The dumb-ass cover. The dumb-ass characters. And especially the dumb-ass writing. I tend to cuss and rant when I hate a book, so if you are of delicate sensibilities or loved this book, I would advise against reading any further.
I hate the main character so freakin' much. Eliza (I forgot her name already, so I had to look it up) was on my characters-i-wanna-shoot shelf before I even finished the second chapter. Could she be anymore stupid? Seriously. She was whiny and had not a lick of common sense. And she had no balls. I laughed when she told Cooper he had no balls, when she was a puppet for the 318's. Have some pride, girl. Personally, I would tell them to go fuck themselves and let them post the notebook online. Who cares if everyone knows you are scared to sing karaoke? And she was all "the secrets didn't just concern me". So what if one of your best friends is getting booty-called, one of them is a tease, and you kissed your sister's ex-boyfriend? I hate them too, and you should have told them anyway.
I also hated all the other characters. Clarice (I think that's her name) and Marissa were horrible best friends. Not only were they as equally stupid as Eliza, they ditched her on various occasions for boys. And at the end Eliza was all like "true friends" and all that crap. I was like "Are we reading the same book here? Your friends are bitches. Dump them". Cooper was the only character that I didn't want to stab with a fork.
And the writing was completely horrible. I rolled my eyes so many times one of them fell out of its socket. It was written to seem like the thought process of Eliza. Eliza, being completely stupid, did not help. And every other word was "like" or "you know' or "omg". And when Eliza was excited about something EVERYTHING WAS PUT INTO CAPS. CAN YOU BE ANY MORE JUVENILE? I just hated it. Oh, so much.
The plot was also completely predictable and completely stupid. Everything you expect to happen, except the things that might be awesome (ninjas!), happens. And the title of the book is wrong. Not much was changed. Eliza still has the same fears, except now she is not as stupid as to write them in a notebook.
And Barnholdt must have been sponsored by Pandora or something, because she mentioned them at least five different times. Sheesh.
This book is not fun. It's not cute. It's not entertaining in the least. If I had a physical copy and not an ebook, this book would be used as lining for my brother's poopy rabbit cage. I would say to use it as toilet paper, but it's not good enough to wipe my ass. (less)
Even though I have A MASSIVE AMOUNT OF HOMEWORK to get done, I knew I wasn't going to be able to focus on anything until I finished this book.
This bo...moreEven though I have A MASSIVE AMOUNT OF HOMEWORK to get done, I knew I wasn't going to be able to focus on anything until I finished this book.
This book is about Amy Curry, who's life has recently went very much downhill. Her father died in a car accident, her mother packed up everything to go to Connecticut, and her twin brother is in rehab. Amy, who was left behind in California to finish her junior year, isn't too happy about having to go cross country in the family car, driven by a boy she's never met. The aforementioned boy is Roger, a college kid who is still hung up on his ex. Although Amy's mother has the trip very carefully laid out, Roger and Amy can't help but make some very unexpected stops along the way. It turns out this trip might be exactly what they both need.
I was really surprised about how much I love this book. It seemed to be so unassuming but soon enough I was sucked in like this *makes whooshing noises*. I just couldn't put it down. I don't know what it was that made this book so absorbing. Was it the excellent writing? The spot-on characters? The quirky humor? The slow-building romance? Amy's travel journal and all the bits and scraps they pick up on the way? I would have to say all of it. I really can't think of anything I didn't like about it, which is rare because I'm usually such a whiner.
There is something appealing about spending a week or so with a stranger, going to places neither of you have ever been. This is now something I want to experience. I need to now find myself a cute college boy, and somehow convince him to go on a cross-country road trip. Shouldn't be too hard (TWSS).
Anyway, this book was cute, but not in a sappy gooey way, but a indie film kind of way. I really need to expand on my adjectives. I am rambling a bit, so I would suggest you abort reading this review now, if you haven't already. This is also one of those books where I want more (transcontinental road trip, anyone?), but I'm glad there is no sequel. A sequel would ruin it. And if I see one, I shall be very upset. But perhaps something similar from Ms. Matson would be nice.
Oh, and Ms. Matson, has very good taste in music, if I may say so, assuming Roger is anything to go by. Okay, I really should stop typing now, as I am afraid I shall embarrass myself if I don't cease shortly. I talk fancy-ish sometimes.
Amy is going to Connecticut! That's where I live! She is right, though. It really is quite pretty, although we don't have much to do. And we don't have any cool food chains. McDonald's and Dunkin Donuts is pretty much it. We have casinos though, and lots of cows, and our state insect is the praying mantis. Did you know they are the only insect who can turn their head? I learned that from a Snapple cap. And we have Benedict Arnold. He's a traitor, though, so we don't like to claim him much.
I liked this one considerably less than the first for a variety of reasons. It just didn't (pardon the pun) have the magic of the first.
I preferred t...moreI liked this one considerably less than the first for a variety of reasons. It just didn't (pardon the pun) have the magic of the first.
I preferred the story when there was less fantasy aspects, and it was mainly just a survival story. Now it is your typical I'm-so-special-because-I-gots-magic story. That just seems, I don't know, so conforming.
I also found the plot tedious. How many times can Yelena get captured and rescued? Apparently every flippin' times she goes outside.
And I hated everyone's attitude towards Yelena. They were either in lurvvvve with her or wanted to kill her. Quite extreme.
There were also useless characters and events that happened just to fill the pages. They had no significance on the plot or outcome of the book whatsoever.
Most of all, I hated what happened to Valek. Don't worry, people who haven't read this book yet, Valek is physically fine, if you don't count being whipped. I miss the old sexy mysterious Valek, the one who always had ulterior motives and something up his sleeve. I liked how his and Yelena's relationship developed in the first book. But now, I kind of wished that never happened. Valek is a changed man, and a boring one at that. We see him hardly at all in this book, and the times we do, him and Yelena are either jumping into bed or he is rescuing her one the many times she needs to be rescued. Yelena just tells him to do something and he does it. No mystery. And if I hear (or read) him say "My love" one more time, I will find him and punch him in the face. Yeah, I think I can take him.
Overall, I guess I liked it. It did get pretty annoying though. Hopefully, the third one will redeem it. (less)
Well, I didn't like this book as much as the first one. I also have to admit I'm liking the TV series a little more and it kills me to say that becaus...moreWell, I didn't like this book as much as the first one. I also have to admit I'm liking the TV series a little more and it kills me to say that because I'm sure TV will one day eat my brain (if it hasn't already).
I just couldn't ignore some of my complaints about the series this time around. I mean, the mystery part of it is still really really good. I have absolutely no flippin' clue about what will happen next. But I'm not liking the girls as much. Is it me, or are they becoming even more air-headed and flippant?
It just annoys me when Shepard goes into insignificant detail about clothing, throwing out brand names left and right. I have nothing against brand names, but that is only because I have zero to none knowledge about them. I do not know the difference between Gucci and Prada and Marc Jacobs, and I have no idea what Chanel Number 5 smells like. So please stop reminding me that I am poor and fashion-ignorant, Ms. Shepard, if you'd be so kind.
It's also hard for me to believe what these girls supposedly did in 7th grade. I probably still ate glue in 7th grade (exaggerating, but you get my point). I don't do the stuff they did when they were 11 now, and I'm a senior in high school. Well, this might be because of my limited social life, or it could be that Ms. Shepard wants these girls to appear overly glamorous. But alas, maybe that really is how the other half lives....
Despite my personal qualms, this series is like a big greasy bag of chips. Even though you know they are bad for you, you can't have just one. (or two....or three....or eight)(less)
Everything changed on that rainy March night seven months ago. Willow's parents were tipsy and asked her to drive home, a decision that would cost the...moreEverything changed on that rainy March night seven months ago. Willow's parents were tipsy and asked her to drive home, a decision that would cost them their lives. Ever since then, Willow has felt disconnected from the world. Her only reprieve is in mutilating her own body, one cut at a time. But everything changes when she meets Guy, the only one with whom she can possibly share her secret.
I did not like Willow. Not the book, the character. She was a whiny little biotch. I understand that I probably should pity her, her being responsible for her parents deaths and all, but she makes it so damn hard. It's not the cutting that makes her so unlikable. Even though I am not a cutter myself, I understand the concept and have friends who indulge in it. It's just her view of the world. She expected the whole damn universe to revolve around her. She whined about people being inconsiderate around her and about how no one "got her". But Willow was always wrong about others. She judged them before they could judge her. I didn't understand her logic most of the time. And I hate how she would always go "well, I killed my parents." You're not the only who has ever lost anyone, Willow. You are not the only person in the world who is grieving. I just wanted her to get over herself. Though admittedly, I did like her considerably more by the novel's end.
Based on the character of Willow alone, this book would have gotten two stars. Thankfully, the intense writing and topic made me really like it. The writing flowed really well, and its interesting how this book was in third person instead of the expected first person. Of course, cutting is an always disturbing, intriguing topic, as much as you wish that it wasn't.
And Guy might have been too perfect, but he was sweet and sensitive without being gay (glances at her copy of Shiver). But I felt sorry for the poor guy (hehe, pun). He was stuck with Willow. And I also liked David and all the literary references.
One more thing that didn't quite fly with me was the end. A spoiler is coming up, so AVERT YOUR EYES. Okay, so teenage sex. It happens a lot. A lot a lot. So why encourage it? "Guy, we need to sleep together because I'm sad." "Okay then." *they do it* "Okay, I'm all better." "Okay, then." Just a little bit of WTF.
Overall, parts of this book and others parts I didn't like at all (aka Willow). But it is a good book, no doubt about that. It has a powerful, intense theme that I'm sure teenagers (especially cutters looking to relate) will eat up. (less)
Ever since a horrific car accident nine years ago, Megan has been haunted by the ghost of her dead twin sister, Remy. Megan, in an attempt to keep an...moreEver since a horrific car accident nine years ago, Megan has been haunted by the ghost of her dead twin sister, Remy. Megan, in an attempt to keep an eye on her boyfriend and his perky best friend, takes up a summer job at the amusement park, Land of Enchantment. On her first day there, Remy comes and gives Megan a horrifying vision. Megan isn't the only one who saw Remy this time, however. Luke, a cute guy who works at the park, is determined to help Megan and get her twin sister to move on. But Remy is becoming more and more insistent and much more terrifying, bringing violent visions of whats to come.
I would not call this book a retelling of Snow White. It's more of a continuation of "what-if". After the prologue, the only references to Snow White come much later in the novel. So I don't really recommend this book if you are looking for a good fairytale.
I didn't enjoy this book too much, but it was different. For me it fluctuated between original, weird, and just plain stupid. The writing is nothing to give a hoot about. Plot-wise, things were uneven. I think the book jumped into the story too fast, took a break, and then finished in a rush.
The characters were thinly developed, but some did manage to surprise me at the end. I didn't like Megan though. She devoted more time to fussing about relationships than in mourning when something horrific happened. She just wasn't very smart. Luke was of the typical love interest fare. He was cute, yet understanding. And terribly, terribly cliched.
I would have to say the tone was overall light, even though there were some pretty gruesome scenes. Not that the reader was given any time to make an emotional connection to the event.
The book wasn't good, but wasn't horrible. I know some people will like it. I wouldn't discourage anyone from picking this up, especially if they were looking for a book to go in between heavier reads. (less)
Before this I've only read another book by Deb Caletti (The Nature of Jade), and it was just okay. Thankfully, I liked this one much much better.
This...moreBefore this I've only read another book by Deb Caletti (The Nature of Jade), and it was just okay. Thankfully, I liked this one much much better.
This book was about Cassie Morgan, who has divorced parents, and a step-father who is a famous violinst. To the outside world, Dino may seem like a genius musician and composer from a small town in Italy, but Cassie knows the truth. Dino is a terrifying, selfish, insane bully, who just gets crazier and more paranoid every day. Cassie can't imagine why her mom fell for him, and doesn't want anything to do with love....that is, until she meets Ian Waters, Dino's new protege.
I really liked this book. I found Cassie to be a wonderful narrator. She was both funny and insightful. There were many parts where I was nodding in agreement or stifling laughter. Denifite quotable material. Initally though, I didn't quite like the style. It seemed a little too informal for my taste, but I quickly got over it.
I found the characters lively and three-dimensional. Except for Ian. I did not like him. He was hardly in the book, which made the romance seem improbable. I liked this book, but I wouldn't consider it a romance. In fact, it would have been fine without any romantic aspects at all. Just the family dynamic seemed enough.
I was also surprised with how everything turned out. It's not a suspenseful edge-of-your-seat book, but is certainly absorbing.
I will definitely be checking out more of Deb Caletti's books in the future. (less)
Sixteen-year-old Jessamine lives with her father, an apothecary, in an abandoned church she calls "the cottage". Her father's obsession is a forbidden...moreSixteen-year-old Jessamine lives with her father, an apothecary, in an abandoned church she calls "the cottage". Her father's obsession is a forbidden garden where he keeps deadly and poisonous plants from around the world. Jessamine lives a boring life- taking care of her father and the plants, writing in her journal, doing household chores. Until a stranger shows up at her home with a present for her father. The present is Weed, a strange and introverted boy, whom with Jessamine builds a friendship, and later, a romance. Weed has a secret, though: plants communicate with him, and he is especially wary of the Poison Garden. But when Jessamine falls inexplicably ill, its up to Weed to unlock the secret of the dangerous garden in order to save her life.
When I first started this book, I thought it was going to be good. The premise was unique and the writing was lovely. I really liked Jessamine's journal and how her voice fit the time period. Quickly, though, I got sick of it. The writing soon became (pardon the pun) too flowery, and the beginning was incredibly boring. No conflict was introduced until nearly 50 pages in.
And once Weed was introduced, it was too late. I already had a sour taste in my mouth. Jessamine proved herself to be a weak character. All she did was cook, clean, and then become unconcious. I thought we had gotten past the whole Disney Princess concept. I guess not. And Weed and Jessamine's romance was incredibly awkward. I kept wincing and getting embarrassed for them. Weed would have been interesting if his ability wasn't so silly. He talks to plants, or more correctly, plants talk to him. I kept getting these absurd mental images of flowers with lips, and too soon I was past the point of taking this book seriously.
And the ending was pretty horrible. Once Jessamine got deadly ill, she couldn't very well write in her journal, could she? So Weed had to pick it up. From there, things got even weirder. It would shift between Weed's POV (which was eerily similar to Jessamine's), and these weird tripped out visions which Jessamine had of a Plant Prince or something. It was quite difficult to follow. And of course it ended openly because we can't have a stand-alone now, can we?
*sighs* There are just some books that don't need to be written. (less)
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