Devri Walls' debut YA fantasy novel is a richly imagined tale of destiny, lies and promises, epi...more Published to: Bookish (www.evie-bookish.blogspot.com)
Devri Walls' debut YA fantasy novel is a richly imagined tale of destiny, lies and promises, epic quests, pain, heartbreak and finding your own place in the world. It's a high fantasy novel, and a really good one at that. With an interesting premise and unique approach to the concept of good and evil, it's a novel that really stands out; a memorable and enjoyable addition to the genre.
The world envisioned in this story is beautiful, enthralling and fascinating. It's full of breath-taking places and fantastic creatures (including dragons and shape-shifters). Wings of Arian has everything a good fantasy novel should have: solid, well-thought-out plot line, characters that you actually want to read about, beautifully depicted settings, some decent action, sweeping romance (with a great build-up!), tension, magic, and ancient prophecies. What else could you possibly ask for? The lead character, Kiora, learns that she is the Solus.The faith of the entire world lies in her hands. She is the only one who has the power to face and defeat the evil Dralazar. All she has to do is learn how to use magic. The only problem is.. up until now Kiora had no idea that magic even existed..
As much as I enjoyed the entrancing world building and the deliciously magical aspects of the story, I also thought that the character development was somewhat lacking. It didn't affect my enjoyment in a negative way (not much, at least), and I did like both of the main characters a lot, but I would definitely love to learn more about Kiora, where she came from, and how exactly did she end up being the Solus. I guess you don't necessarily need to know all that, you can just take it at face value and have fun following Kiora's adventures, but - in my opinion - the more backdrop details we get, and the more we learn about character's past, the better we can understand the motives behind their actions. I do, however, have to admit that at 462 pages long Wings of Arian is quite a hefty book and adding even more plot threats (especially flashbacks), would have made the end product heavy and hard to digest. Not to mention potentially confusing. At the same time, though, I'd definitely be delighted if Devri decided to write an e-novella (or even a full-blown novel) about Kiora's past - I'd love to get to know her a little better!
I really enjoyed the romance part of the book. I liked Kiora and Emane as a couple, I thought they were great together (and long before they themselves realized that, too!). I appreciated that the love story wasn't rushed - if there's one thing I really hate in YA novels, it's the instant-love theme that seems to be oh-so-very-popular these days. Emane and Kiora took time getting to know - and like - each other. And they didn't always get along, which, too, was fun to watch. They had a great chemistry, though, and seeing their relationship slowly develop and grew stronger with every passing day was both moving and entertaining.
The writing was good for a debut novel. Devri writes with exceptional clarity and grace, making it easy for the reader to immerse themselves in the story and visualize all the settings, characters and events. The book is evenly paced, although it's not exactly what I'd call a page-turner, more like a read you slowly sip and savour.
Overall, Wings Of Arian was a really good novel. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and am definitely looking forward to the next book in the series!(less)
***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
When asked by Seventh...more***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
When asked by Seventh Star Press to participate in the blog tour for the second book in Jackie Gamber's Leland Dragon Series, Sela, I didn't think twice before immediately jumping on board with it. I have read and absolutely loved the first novel in the series, Redheart, and knew that I simply couldn't afford to miss the sequel. Having devoured and been totally blown-away by Redheart, I expected a lot from this book. I couldn't wait to be taken back to Leland, revisit the treacherous mountains, vast fields of green, and familiar villages. Most of all, I was anxious to be reunited with all my favourite characters, fly high in the sky with all the majestic, colorful dragons, and soak up the beauty and freshness of Gamber's world. I can't even begin to describe how happy this book made me - it's a breathtaking, magnificent fantasy book, so rich in atmosphere, so vibrant and emotionally engaging, so full of character, passion and magic - it's virtually impossible not to fell in love with it. Once again Jackie Gamber delivers, and she does it with style, power and irresistible charm.
I won't lie, I was a bit surprised when I first learned about Redheart not being a stand alone novel, but rather a first in a planned trilogy. Why? Because it ended so perfectly! I didn't see what could possibly be added to the story without making it seem forced and overdone. Jackie ended her first book in a way that was perfectly satisfying, sensible and seemingly final. The main story - Kallon and Riza's story - was concluded. Yes, the author left a small opening for a possible follow up (mainly because of Blacklaw's disappearance - and when a bad guy walks away, we all know that he's going to be back with a vicious revenge plan, and sooner rather than later), but I honestly didn't think it necessary to explore further what already seemed explored enough. So what does Gamber do? She does something utterly brilliant! She turns her trilogy into a saga, adding a whole new generation of characters, enriching the plot, making it even more twisty and intense, and - which is even more fantastic - she tells the whole thing from human's perspective, focusing mainly on Sela, her feelings and adventures. I loved it. I think I loved it even more than Redheart. It was just as thrilling and exciting as the first book, but, thanks to the clever mix of familiar (well-known characters, settings, mythology, political issues, etc) with brand new (new generation of characters, new threats and mysteries, shift in the narrative and many more), it turned out to be even more captivating, mesmerizing and utterly fantabulous.
I was totally exhilarated to once again meet Orman Thistleby and Jastin Armitage - my two favorite Redheart's characters, but at the same time, I was just as happy to be introduced to a whole new palette of intriguing personalities. Jackie Gamber did a phenomenal job expanding the already wonderful world, and filling it up with even more fascinating protagonists. At the same time, even though there were many more characters to keep track of, I never had any problem following the story. Gamber dynamic prose is both easy to comprehend and quite rich in descriptions. She makes it easy for the reader to lose themselves in the story, and knows exactly which words to use to fuel their imagination. The resulting narrative is not only swift moving and flavourful, but also perfectly balanced.
I really love Gamber's version of dragon world. Some may find it odd - after all these are dragons with social structures and politics, dragons who not only fly and breathe fire, but also paint, write chronicles, bake, etc - but to me this world is nothing short of pure delight. So fascinating and original! And I really enjoyed seeing it again, this time through Sela's eyes. Sela's character really brought this story to life, made it more complex and poignant, and added a whole new layer of emotions. I never expected this book to be so moving and thought-provoking, and it was! It's not just a gorgeously told fantasy, filled with mythical creatures and sparkly magic, it's - perhaps most of all - a wonderful coming of age story, a very interesting portrayal of family pulled apart by difficult circumstances, and a tale of young woman trying desperately to discover her identity.
All in all, Jackie Gamber's Sela is an amazingly imaginative novel. Delicate, dramatic, and absolutely dazzling, it's a beautifully written tale of young girl discovering her place in the world, and one definitely worth picking up!(less)
How do I feel about this book??? It kind of destroyed me. Disturbed me (A LOT), made me cringe and shudder, but at the same time it was really interes...moreHow do I feel about this book??? It kind of destroyed me. Disturbed me (A LOT), made me cringe and shudder, but at the same time it was really interesting and fun to read. At times I thought this book was written with a future movie adaptation in mind - ever scene, every dialogue, event.. everything was dynamic and visually breath-taking, like in a good movie script (and it's really no surprise, since this book already has a movie-deal!).
I have what feels like a thousand thoughts about this book. It was so good and so creepy and so cheesy at times, but overall just seriously heart-pounding and exciting!
***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
One Moment by Kristina...more***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
One Moment by Kristina McBride was a good read. While I can't say that it was a life-changing one, and it definitely didn't blow me away, I still enjoyed it quite a lot. Featuring difficult subjects such as dealing with the loss of a friend/loved one, post-traumatic memory loss, infidelity, and coming to terms with one's feelings, One Moment was both captivating and entertaining. It had it's thrilling moments, as well as moving ones, and even though it wasn't as harrowing and emotionally devastating as I expected it to be, I still had a lot of fun with it, and came out of reading it mostly satisfied.
The premise was brilliant, although not fully explored. As much as it intrigued me to follow the unfolding mystery and observe the consequences of the tragic accident that took place at the beginning of the story, I thought the emotional response from the characters lacked conviction. The story kicked off with a total jaw-dropper. A group of life-long friends was celebrating the beginning of the summer at a gorge, drinking, dancing, joking.. One moment they were having the time of their lives, and then next thing you know one of them fell from the cliff and ended up dead, and the only person that was with him at the time of the accident - his girlfriend, Maggie - has no recollection what-so-ever of the events leading up to his fall. Unfortunate accident? Or something more? I was absolutely intrigued by the premise of this book. I love books dealing with memory loss. I find it very exciting and thrilling to be able to uncover the mystery of some tragic event by slowly putting together flashbacks and scattered pieces of information. I also thought the construction of the plot was excellent, and I quickly found myself immersed in the story and frantically turning pages. But as much as I appreciated all that, I couldn't ignore all the flaws. First of all, the mystery part wasn't all that mysterious. I actually had it all figured out 20 pages into the story. I kept on pushing through, hoping for some big fat shocking plot twist that would knock my socks off, but that never happened. I actually figured out exactly what happened on top of the cliff, as they were still standing there, and I also knew where the story would go from there, who was the person Joey was secretly meeting behind Maggie's back, and who Maggie would hook up with in the end. All the clues that Kristina scattered throughout the story were just a tiny bit too obvious, and instead of spiking up my interest and making me wreck my brain to connect the dots, they gave away everything right away. That's not to say that the plot line was a total failure, because despite its predictability, it offered quite a well-thought-out and intriguing story. I just wished the mystery part would be more, well, mysterious.
The characters were a little bit too stereotypical for my taste, but that did not stop me from having fun following their adventures. While I can't say that I connected with them on some deep emotional level, I can definitely tell you that they were well drawn and likeable. Well, most of them were. I did not really care for them, but that's because they didn't seem to care for themselves either. Maggie claimed to love Joey, and the way their relationship was described had me under the impression that they were really close together. After Joey died Maggie was most certainly shocked and in pain, but I didn't feel the downpour of heart-breaking emotions that I anticipated. In fact, I didn't get that from any of the characters, including Joey's family. You'd expect them to be devastated, lost, broken, drowning in grief and struggling to accept the reality, but all they did was moped around for a while, patted each other's back and pretty much moved on. I think I was way more devastated when my dog died last month, honestly.
One thing that I really loved about this book, though, was McBride's excellent, compelling and deliciously fluid prose. It was weightless and had a fantastic natural flow to it that made reading One Moment an absolute pleasure. Ultimately, McBride's evocative descriptions and thoughtful passages really made this book for me, leaving me totally amazed.
Overall, I wish I could say that I loved this book and that it touched my heart, but that would be saying too much. I did enjoy it, but also thought that it had the potential to be so much more than just a quick, thrilling summer read. In the end, though, all its flaws and emotional shortages aside, One Moment is a solid, entertaining and beautifully written book. I recommend you give it a try in your free time, it's worth checking out! (less)
Falling Kingdoms by Morgan Rhodes (Michelle Rowen) is a downright good read. Marketed as part of Penguin's Breathless Reads collection, it's a thorou...more Falling Kingdoms by Morgan Rhodes (Michelle Rowen) is a downright good read. Marketed as part of Penguin's Breathless Reads collection, it's a thoroughly captivating and deliciously readable YA fantasy novel that will appeal to fans of George R. R. Martin's bestselling high fantasy series, Game Of Thrones. Personally, I could not put this book down. Told from multiple perspectives, richly imagined and packed with eye-popping action, it's truly a breathless read, and one that I will be recommending to all my friends!
The story focuses on three kingdoms: Auranos, Paelsia and Simeros. The kingdoms managed to co-exist in peace for many years, but when a wine maker's son is killed by a lord from another kingdom, the established peace is threatening to crumble. There is a war brewing and four seemingly unrelated young people find themselves caught in the middle of it.
Impressive world building, thorough character development, intrigue, magic, action, romance... Falling Kingdoms has all that and more! At more than 400 pages, it's not what you'd call a short book, but Rhodes' sharp and concise prose makes it all-too easy to lose yourself in the story and forget the real world for a day or two. With to her skilled storytelling, she created a world that is mystical, but believable nevertheless. A visually breathtaking, emotionally stimulating, intensely gripping page-turner of a book!
As I mentioned before, each chapter of the book concentrated on a third-person point of view of a different character. I thought the third-person narrative provided a good (objective) look at all sides of the conflict, though at times I wished the story was told in a more personal first-person narrative instead. Mainly because, while third-person narrative explored the thoughts, feelings and motivations of all four main characters, it did not make their voices distinct enough. That, of course, doesn't mean that I found the characters underdeveloped, I just thought it would've been really interesting to fully explore their unique personalities. Overall, though, I thought Rhodes did a really good job juggling the multiple characters and skilfully intertwining the story lines. The result was simply amazing: the plot line was full of interesting tidbits of information, fresh ideas and surprising plot developments. The story was a complex and multi-layered one, but not overwhelmingly or confusingly so.
I really enjoyed Rhodes writing style. It was more YA and MG-friendly than your usual high fantasy book and I found it easy to read and understand. The descriptions were rich in details, the dialogues - realistic. I loved the intrigue and how fast-paced the story was. I also really appreciated the fact that Rhodes was not afraid to kill off some of the characters and trust me when I say; some of those kills were real jaw-droppers!
All in all, Falling Kingdoms is a fresh and exciting YA fantasy novel that is sure to please a wide range of reading tastes. This book has everything from action and political intrigue to magic and romance. You really don't have to be a high fantasy lover to enjoy this story. The epic scope of the first book in the series promises a fantastic and unforgettable journey and I can't wait to read the next instalment!(less)
Loved it. A solid thriller, full of secrets and surprises. The mystery was pretty good, the tension was building up steadily all the way till the end,...moreLoved it. A solid thriller, full of secrets and surprises. The mystery was pretty good, the tension was building up steadily all the way till the end, and the ending was very satisfying, though open to interpretation! I highly recommend it ;) (less)
***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
Full of emotional hone...more***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
Full of emotional honesty and thoroughly riveting reflections, Running On Empty is a gripping, haunting and memorable story of one teenager's downward spiral into the dangerous world of money-borrowing, gambling and guns. Beautifully structured and written with utmost care for details, it's a fascinating exploration of dreams, expectations, disappointments, and ambitious goals that, if pursued blindly and ruthlessly, have just as much power to create, as they have to destroy.
Ethan is just two days away from his eighteenth birthday. Only two days away from being able to finally buy his dream car, a gorgeous Mustang Cobra. He's been working really hard, saving up every penny for more than a year and a half. This car is his dream, he can't wait to slide into the driver's seat and feel the thrum of the engine. But, only two days before his dream is about to come true, his hopes and plans are suddenly shattered to pieces by his own reckless actions and the unforgiving character of his father. When Ethan - driven by a stupid 20 dollar bet - rams his father's car into the garage door, he's about to get yet another bitter life lesson from his strict lawyer/politician dad. Ethan's dad is almost filthy rich and he could easily let the insurance company pay for all the damage, but that wouldn't teach Ethan anything, would it? So instead, he decides to make him use all the meticulously saved up cash to pay for the repairs, using this occasion to teach his son yet another priceless, life-changing and absolutely necessary lesson. Desperate to find a way out of this situation, Ethan starts looking for ways to make some quick and easy money. But the thing about money is it's never quick and easy, and if it appears to be.. well, then you better brace yourself for all the trouble that will come with it. And there will be trouble. Plenty of it.
I loved this book. I loved its honesty and clarity, and the way Don Aker skilfully weaved the plot, presenting us with an absolutely phenomenal examination of the motives behind Ethan's actions. The tension was building up slowly, but steadily, and although I wouldn't say that the book was moving at a break-neck speed, it definitely had a great flow that allowed me to stay focused on the plot all the way through. The premise of this book was something new, too. I have never read a book that would tackle the issue of teenage gambling and its consequences, and in such an excellent way, too! Don Aker nailed it to the very last detail. He captured all the riveting emotions, too, from the excitement and hopefulness, to the desperation, anger, and panic. I loved how the story progressed, starting off quite innocent and then getting darker and heavier with ever chapter. Running on Empty had a really great build-up, followed by a thoroughly devastating conclusion.
Ethan was a genuine and very convincing character, almost achingly so. The author perfectly captured his personality, complete with all its virtues and flaws. He was hard-working, dedicated, focused and persistent. When he decided he wanted something, he would find a way to get it. No matter what. After the accident with his father's car, he was angry and let down, but he never gave up on his dreams. Of course, in hindsight, his almost crazy determination pushed him to do some really dangerous things. He made some bad decisions and, eventually, his life spun totally out of control. What started off as a power struggle between him and his father, quickly escalated into a far more serious situation, and one that would put people's lives in jeopardy.
Ethan's father was a very interesting, well-drawn character himself. He wasn't physically present all the time, but his constant demands, Big Life Lessons, and never-ending criticism affecter Ethan in more than just one way. He was overly ambitious and wanted to see Ethan succeed entirely on his own, to the point that he'd make him earn his own pocket money and pay for all of his expanses from the day his son turned sixteen. Strict, unforgiving, almost cruel at times, Jack Palmer was always giving speeches and forcing Big Life Lessons down his sons throat. He'd say things like: "A person is invariably defined by his ability to meet his obligations." and "Life seldom allows us the luxury of choosing our own consequences." And he would repeat that over and over again. As forceful and harsh as he was towards Ethan, I can't say that he was being mean on purpose. I believe he really did care about his son and wanted nothing more but to ensure that Ethan grows up an intelligent, strong person who will do something meaningful with his life. While I somewhat understood where he was coming from, I didn't care much for his methods, and wished that he'd show his son a little bit more understanding and affection. Because, while his ultimate goal might have been teaching Ethan important lessons about life and money, what he ended up doing was pushing his son just a little bit too much and in a totally wrong direction.
Overall, Running On Empty was a really great read. Thrilling, absorbing and ambitious, it's a book full of meaning and hidden messages. While its plot revolves mainly around Ethan's desperate attempts to make money (even if it means doing some potentially risky things), ultimately this book offers so much more than just that. Don Aker presents us with a thoughtful, intelligent and very psychologically accurate examination of a difficult father-son relationship, one tainted by conflict, mistrust, and lack of communication. It's an examination that is just as disturbing as it is moving, and its spot-on accuracy is just as bewildering as it is terrifying.
Running On Empty is book worth reading, I highly recommend picking it up!(less)
Brilliantly plotted, inventive, and outrageously fun to read, ReVamped is a book that rocked my socks off, made me shiver with excitement, and sent m...more Brilliantly plotted, inventive, and outrageously fun to read, ReVamped is a book that rocked my socks off, made me shiver with excitement, and sent me into dangerous fits of laughter. It's deliciously geeky, potent, beautifully imagined, emotionally engaging, and incredibly (and I mean INCREDIBLY) compelling. This is not your usual sucky vampire story. This is easily one of the most original, totally badass takes on the vampire world ever!
Dawn is a vampire, and not just any vampire but a Born. She's the daughter of the US Vampire President, living in the Scarlet House (it's like the White House, only for the Vampire President and his family), and she's highly skilled in martial arts and combat tactics. On top of that, she's a trainer, responsible for teaching youngsters how to fight and defend themselves. The world is no longer afraid of vampires. Quite the opposite, ever since they announced their presence to the public, they've become more loved and more popular than human celebrities ever were. The two races coexist peacefully. There are certain laws and rules that both parties have to follow (like "no snacking on humans" and "no turning humans into vampires"). When rebel groups of vampires start popping up in various areas of the country, and the human population is suddenly in danger, Dawn's father sends her on a special mission to Angel Creek. She is to gather a group of vampires living there and train them to become guardians. The only problem is... those vampires are absolutely and utterly clueless and they suck at being vamps! Dawn not only has to train them in martial arts, but she basically has to teach them how to be proper vampires.. she has to revamp them. Like that's not enough, Dawn soon discovers that there is way more going on in the small town of Angel Creek than what everyone originally assumed, she stumbles upon an evil plot to take over the world (why start small? go big or go home!) and she finds herself right in the middle of a dangerous intrigue.
I loved everything about this book, really. The plotting was skilful and thorough, down to the very last detail. The world building and the premise were simply masterful, I loved how original a world Ada created. I can't rave enough about the fascinating society, complete with all the social structures and politics. It was cool, unique and completely believable (despite its paranormal aspects). The characters were just awesome. Dawn was down-to-earth, kick-ass, smart, smoking hot and just sooooo sweet! She was also very strong, brave and a great leader. I loved her sense of humor and occasional sassiness. Both Sebastian and Ethan were great love interests. Obviously, I loved Sebastian more - he's gorgeousness impersonated, and I totally dig his "I'm so mysterious, baby, you don't even begin to comprehend it" act. He also seemed wise, experienced (hey! no dirty thoughts there!) and emotionally mature, though slightly damaged by his tragic past. A very complex and intriguing character, indeed. The villains were exceptionally fleshed-out, too, and I certainly appreciated the back story behind their evil plottings - it's a nice change to see bad guys that are not just evil for the sake of being evil, but their nasty behaviour (while it's still not acceptable) is somewhat motivated by the past events and experiences.
While it's a greatly entertaining and fun story, ReVamped is also so much more than just that. There's some family drama involved, social issues weaved into the plot, convincing romance (no insta-love, no "I love you to death" after 10 pages, just the beginning of something that could potentially turn into a serious relationship), ingeniously plotted intrigue, tension, and a whole lot of unexpected developments. It's an unputdownable book, and one that you'll simply love and remember for ever. I quickly grew attached to all the characters and really enjoyed observing the dynamics of their relationships. Ada Adams' writing style is unexpectedly amazing (I say unexpectedly because it is, after all, her debut novel), and I was amazed how interesting and deep a story she created.
All in all, ReVamped is an excellent YA debut novel, and one that I will be coming back to time and time again. I said that before and I'll say it again: to me, Ada Adams is Rusty Fischer on high heels. If you liked Fischer's Vamplayers or/and Zombies Don't Cry, you will fall head over heels for ReVamped. If you like your books entertaining, action-packed, sassy, intelligent and with a healthy dose of humour - this should be your next read. Trust me, you absolutely can't afford to miss it!(less)
***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
Packed with raunchy hu...more***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
Packed with raunchy humour and hold-on-tight-to-your-socks action, Last Stop This Town is a delightfully entertaining, surprisingly elegant, and intensely gripping story of four friends' last weekend together. And boy, what a weekend it turns out to be! From the screenwriter of "American Pie" series, David H. Steinberg, comes a brilliant and refreshing tale of friendship, growing older and growing apart. It might not be the most profoundly meaningful novel out there, but one absolutely worth reading nevertheless.
Four life-long friends: Dylan, Noah, Pike, and Walker. Last weekend before high school graduation. An a brilliant idea to spend it in New York. That's basically the premise of this book. Add to that a whole lot of crazy (with a capital "C") events - from troubles with drug-dealers, to dangerous encounters with street gangs - and what you'll get is one explosive mix. Considering that this book is only 194 pages long, it's remarkable how many plot twists are crammed into it. And in a good way! I honestly didn't have time to pause and catch my breath, I breezed through the whole thing in just a few short hours. As a matter of fact, reading this book felt less like reading and more like watching a good old-school comedy movie. I found myself entirely captivated and laughing out loud. Okay, more like snorting and shaking my head in amusement, but still!
I liked all the characters a lot. All four guys are so very different from each other and I loved watching them interacting with one another. The dialogues were fresh, natural and sparkly. Their good-natured, semi-serious bickering was so entertaining and heart-warming, it reminded me of my old group of friends, and I'm pretty sure I teared up a couple of times (yes, I'm sentimental like that). Steinberg did a fabulous job capturing the essence of high school friendship, with all the teen angst, pervy sense of humour and unexpected depth. I loved it!
While some humour is hit or miss (mostly hit, though) - depending on the reader's taste - Last Stop This Town is overall very enjoyable and funny. Its attractiveness lies in its honest, engaging, and at times truly moving narrative. And while for the most part it's a light and cheerful read, it does not shy away from melancholic moments, either. They kind of take you by surprise and pull on your heart strings. After all, we've all been there. We all lived through high school surrounded by a tight group of friends. And in the end, we all had to move on with our lives. Last Stop This Town offers a story that we all can relate to, and that is precisely what makes it so readable. It's a great summer read, don't hesitate to pick it up!(less)
***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
I first saw this book...more***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
I first saw this book sitting on a bookshelf in Chapters, and although I didn't hear anything about it before, I was absolutely fascinated by the cover. At that time, I was waiting for my husband while he was running errands, bored out of my wits and trying to kill time. I picked it up, found a quiet corner and started reading. By the time my husband came back to get me, I was nearly 80 pages in and absolutely in love. I didn't want to leave the book store, I just wanted to sit there and continue reading. I needed to find out what happens next. Will Bird find the courage to end it with her boyfriend? Will she choose the troublemaker over her life-long trusted friend? Can she keep up with her on-line advance column? I felt an overwhelming need to keep on going, Kuiper's wonderful writing style had me hooked from page one. Did I finish the book right there, in the book store? No, unfortunately I didn't have enough time. I couldn't purchase it either, which made me extremely sad. Thankfully, a few days later, a friend of mine offered to give me her copy and I can't tell you how insanely happy I was to be able to get back to Bird and her life. I immediately jumped right back into the story and continued reading where I left off. What I didn't realize at that time, though, is just how meaningful this book would prove to be. What I initially assumed to be just a complicated love story, turned out to be so much more than just that. I was very surprised at some of the plot developments, I totally didn't anticipate most of the twists. 40 Things I Want To Tell you turned out to be quite an unpredictable read, and one that carried an important message. A message to always trust your heart, follow your dreams, and - once in every while - listen to your own advices. They're better than you might think.
Amy (a.k.a. Bird) is just a teenage girl, and, like most typical teenage girls, she has a loyal side-kick friend, and a wonderful, loving boyfriend. She is also running an on-line advice column for teenagers, where she offers tips on how to take control of one's life. But, as it turns out, our Ms-Take-Control-Of-Your-Life is far from being in control herself. She's stuck in a relationship with her life-long best-friend. She doesn't know how to tell him that she doesn't love him, not the way he loves her. When a new guy shows up at school, Bird is drawn to him, attracted by how wild and dangerous he seems. She knows that Pete is nothing but trouble, but she can't stay away from him. Things are quickly getting complicated and sticky, and before she knows it, Bird finds herself in serious trouble. Her life is about to change forever, will she ever be able to regain control of it?
First thing you need to know before picking this book up, is that you shouldn't expect sweet romance, spine-tingling make-out scenes, butterflies, sparkles and happy endings. It's not a dark read per se, but definitely one filled with profound life lessons, irreversible mistakes, regrets, pain and disappointment. A book of what-ifs and if-onlys. It's a melancholic read, full of sadder undertones. It's definitely not a love story, nor a love triangle. Yes, there is some teenage love-drama involved, but while its absolutely essential to the story, the plot is not built around it. This is not a story of Bird trying to figure out who she wants to be with, this is a story of Bird trying to figure out who she is and what she wants to do with her life. A tale of a girl trying to find her identity, her voice, and strength to do the right things. A story way more poignant and moving than what you'd assume from reading the blurb and looking at the cover.
While I appreciated the detailed and thorough character development, as well as Bird's undeniable character growth, I can't say that I instantly connected with her. She was a very interesting, well-drawn, three-dimensional protagonist, but one that was not easy to like. That, of course, is perfectly understandable, given the plot and every bad decision she made on the way. It's not that she was a mean, spoiled, insensitive person, not at all. In fact, she was too sensitive to other people's needs to ever assert her own will and follow her own needs. She was afraid of hurting others, so she tried to mold herself into something she wasn't. That didn't - couldn't - help though, so she ended up hurting everyone around her even more. She found herself in a perfect Catch-22 situation, and the worst part is her own actions and bad decisions got here there. As frustrating and disappointing as it was to watch her lie to everyone (including herself), it was also quite fascinating and eye-opening to see how she dealt with every difficult situation. Yes, she was lost, confused and weak-minded, but that only made her more human. Alice Kuipers created a very relatable, authentic character, and one that is sure to bring out all sorts of emotions in readers. You'll be angry with her, disgruntled with her actions, and frustrated with her emotional immaturity, but you'll also sympathize with her and, in the end, she'll probably grow on you. Just like she grew on me.
40 Things I Want To Tell you is a beautiful, heartbreaking tale of one girl's journey to self-discovery. It's a remarkably raw and real story of a girl that dreamt of flying, breaking free and feeling the wind in her hair. Emotionally affective, utterly convincing, and written with prose that tugs at your heart and conscience, it's a bittersweet treasure of a book. Take your time while reading it, savour every thought and emotion, and I'm sure this book will stay with you for a long, long time.(less)
***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
From the opening lines...more***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
From the opening lines to the very last sentence, this book is extraordinary. The format in which it is written is incredibly unique. The characters are extremely well drawn, vivid, and convincing. It's intensely emotional, heart-breaking, and absolutely captivating. To me this book is a masterpiece. Honest, powerful and dark, it's a tale of love and loss, heartache, desperation, losing oneself in grief and healing with the power of love. It's a story of one girl's journey to find everything she lost along the way - her parents, love, meaning in life, and herself.
Zach and London were inseparable. They loved and supported each other. They were not only siblings, but best friends. Until Zach died and London's world crumbled to pieces. Nothing is the same as it used to be. Her mother hates her. She hasn't spoken a word to her daughter since Zach's death. It's almost like London died, too. Or never even existed. Her father is distant and disconnected. He's never around anymore. London is lonely, abandoned and heartbroken. And there is no one to help her through this insanely difficult time. Eventually, she finds herself drifting towards other people, boys in particular, and before she knows it, she finds herself torn between her brother's best friend and a new student, searching for affection and redemption.
Wow. Waiting was phenomenal. Carol Lynch Williams' prose evokes so many feelings. She brings both the powerful sibling love and the piercing pain of losing a family member alive within the pages of her book. She writes with remarkable tenderness and sensitivity, and her beautiful, almost lyrical prose makes your heart flutter. This is the kind of novel that invites the reader to lose themselves completely in its pages, tune out the rest of the world and just... read, taste, feel, and, ultimately, fell in love. While it's fantastically readable, and I'm sure that the burning need to learn more about what exactly happened to Zach will make you want to frantically turn the pages, you should refrain from rushing through it. Slow down, re-read some of the gorgeously written passages, savour. This book is worth every second you'll spend reading it.
While the theme of sibling bond is quite common in the literature, especially in Young Adult books, rarely do I see it being tackled with such skill and authenticity. As I read this novel, my heart was bleeding along with London's. I could see how much she was hurting, how huge a hole Zach's death has ripped in her heart, a hole that could never be filled. The once complete and happy family unit is now totally dysfunctional. London's mom has permanently withdrawn from the family life, ostracising her daughter whom she blames for the death of her beloved son. London's dad is never there, either. He's torn between his devastated, mentally unstable wife and the job that keeps him busy most of the time. London is all on her own, she desperately needs someone to hug her, to pay attention to her, to care about her. She needs someone to save her. And she goes looking for that person, getting tangled up in two different relationships, distracting herself with kisses and touches.
I loved that Carol Lynch Williams kept the mystery going almost all the way to the end. When it comes to Zach and his death, we're kept in the dark for the most part of the book. We get little glimpses of London's memories and a whole downpour of emotions, thoughts, regrets, and what-ifs. Clues and pieces of information are scattered throughout the novel, and it isn't until the end that we finally get the whole picture. I absolutely loved the brilliant, well-thought-out structure of this book. It definitely kept me captivated.
It's not a story of happy endings and joyful family reconciliation. It's a story of picking up the pieces of broken hearts and trying to glue them together. Some pieces are crushed beyond dust, others are missing. The family is forever broken and incomplete, and nothing, no amount of time, tears, or begging can ever heal these wounds. The characters in this story are not flat and paper-like, these are real people, with real problems, who find themselves in devastatingly real situation. But, while its obviously a dark and harrowing read, it's also one that ends with a spark of hope. The ending is a bittersweet one, there's a bit of light and a whole lot of darkness, but, thanks to London's strength and determination, I find the conclusion of the story to be realistically positive and perfectly satisfying.
I cried at the end. I've put the book down, took a deep breath, broke down and cried.
***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
Never Enough sneaked u...more***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
Never Enough sneaked up on me and took me by surprise. Neither the blurb, nor the beautiful bright cover have prepared me for the intensely emotional ride I was taken on. Dealing with issues like eating disorders, physical abuse, and the fragility and meaning of life, it's a character-driven, powerful novel that is sure to resonate with its readers. Jaden's evocative and fluid prose is full of vivid emotions and gut-churning authenticity. Poignant, overwhelming and pleasantly readable, Never Enough is a book to savour and cherish, a book to remember.
What does it mean to be happy? What does it take to be satisfied with yourself? Do you need to be super skinny with flawless figure, model-like hair and magnetic personality? At what point in your life do you stop and tell yourself: this is it, this is where I want to be, what I want to do. Do you ever get there? Are we ever good enough in our own eyes? Or are we always searching, always trying, chasing shadows, pushing to improve ourselves? These - among others - are the questions that I've been pondering ever since I turned the last page of Never Enough. This book really got to me. It affected me in ways I never thought possible. The main character, Loann, is a typical ugly duckling. She always looked up to her sister (Claire), wishing she was as pretty and popular as her. Claire was always the one getting all the attention - from their parents, teachers and friends. She was the beautiful and talented ballet-dancer, loved and admired by everyone, with the most fabulous boyfriend and a group of faithful friends. Loann was the awkward one, barely noticed and quickly dismissed, with no special features nor talents. Plain and colourless like a shadow, she would give anything to switch places with her sister and for once feel special, noticed, and needed. Claire's life is not as perfect and sweet as it seems, though, and the things Loann is about to discover will change the lives of the whole family forever.
Never Enough was captivating from start to finish and I found it very difficult to put down. The narrative voice is genuine and lively, and it makes Loann a relatable character. She's full of flaws and yet perfect in many ways. Overshadowed by her stunning sister, insecure, and self-conscious, Loann is struggling with self-acceptance and self-value. She's shy and quiet, and she blends into the background like a chameleon. She focuses on her defects and shortcomings so much that she fails to recognize the flaws in people around her, especially in her sister. Envy plays a big role in Claire and Loann's love-hate relationship, but it's not the only element you'll find there. There's also love, trust and devotion, and I loved how Jaden managed to capture the strong sisterly bond between the two girls.
While the love story was there (in all its sweetness and tenderness), the plot was not built around it. The slowly developing romantic feelings between Loann and Marcus took the back seat to other, more profound and meaningful plot threats. And it was perfect this way. I loved the chemistry between Loann and Marcus, they made a charming couple. They didn't fall in love with each other instantaneously, their relationship was just like their personalities: shy, awkward, angsty and - therefore - real. I loved how they joked around and mocked each other, their conversations were often quite funny and I thought they completed one another in every way. Marcus was a fantastic character. It took me a while to figure him out, but once I did I couldn't have loved him more. Claire was an interesting character, too, and her story invoked so many emotions in me. I feel that I learned a lot from reading about Claire's experiences, and I now have a better understanding of eating disorders and how to help/support people affected by them.
Never Enough is a heartbreaking read that ends on a bitter-sweet note. Filled with burning regrets and what-ifs, it's a thought-provoking exploration of many difficult and relevant issues, from learning how to love yourself to dealing with mental sickness and the loss of a family member. This book tells a harrowing tale of never-enoughs: people not pretty enough, not skinny enough, not interesting enough, not strong enough, or simply not good enough. And while it's mostly a sad and melancholic book, it's also one that ends with hope and promise rather than despair, and for that I absolutely and utterly loved it. (less)
Total mindfuckery!!!! Michelle Hodkin, you are one cruel writer!!! I can't believe I have to wait another year to find out what happens next! Aaaaaaaa...moreTotal mindfuckery!!!! Michelle Hodkin, you are one cruel writer!!! I can't believe I have to wait another year to find out what happens next! Aaaaaaaaaahhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!! (less)
A provocative, intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging tale of humanity, identity, ethics and free will, BETA is, in a word, fascinating....more A provocative, intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging tale of humanity, identity, ethics and free will, BETA is, in a word, fascinating. In this fun to read, absorbing and unique novel, Rachel Cohn addresses some interesting ethical issues about the pitfalls of cloning and bio-genetics. She introduces us to a great new heroine that, engineered to serve the wealthy residents of Demesne, is forced to either obediently follow all the rules or die. Disquieting, thrilling and haunting, BETA is the first book in what quickly became one of my new favourite YA dystopian series!
Set on an idyllic island inhabited by only the wealthiest, most powerful people in the world (Demesne), BETA tells the story of Elysia, a first in a new generation of teenage clones. Elysia's life is not her own. She is a clone and therefore she does not experience emotions or desires. She is merely an expensive toy, a servant, a valuable possession designed to do whatever she's asked to do. While she's a novelty that her owners like to show off to their friends, she's also totally expendable and even the smallest hint of being a "defect" will result in her immediate termination. What will happen to Elysia when she'll discover that she might be, indeed, a defect? Will she find it in herself to fight for her life and freedom? In a world where clones are nothing more than slaves, and emotions and desires - a sign of imperfection, is there any hope for this unwanted clone who so desperately wants to live?
BETA has a lot to offer. It's well-written, fast-paced, filled with jaw-dropping twists and unexpected - at times even shocking - plot developments. From the first page to the last, it's a wild, breathtaking ride that is sure to surprise you at least a few times. The captivating and convincing prose ensures that even its most bizarre futuristic themes and improbable situations remain believable, the characters - relatable. Rachel Cohn created a world that, though a little bit underdeveloped and sketchy on the details (and possibly purposefully so!), is simply fantastic. Unsettling, cold and emotionless, yet beautiful and undeniably compelling. It's not a flawless book, but Cohn's greatly enjoyable writing style makes the few flaws and shortcomings easy to overlook and results in a perfectly satisfying, exciting story. Moreover, BETA is not only an action-packed and highly entertaining futuristic noir, it's also a multi-dimensional and thought-provoking morality tale. An affecting picture that is rich with metaphor, ambitious, and thematically relevant. Featuring themes such as discrimination, search for identity, equality, free will and slavery, it's an insightful examination of what it means to be human - to live, feel and want.
I enjoyed Elysia's first-person narrative and thought it worked way better than a third-person narrative would. I thought she was a great, likeable protagonist and while some of her decisions made me raise my eyebrows a little, overall I found her character quite realistic (as much as a clone could be) and relatable. In the end, I can say that I grew attached to her and enjoyed cheering her on. It was compelling to see the world through her eyes and watch her explore, learn, and experience all the new things for the first time. Her inexperience often lead to many funny situations and hilarious misunderstandings. At the same time, though, while some parts of the story were amusing, even heart-warming, the overall tone of the story was serious, quite unsettling and dark.
Another aspect of this book that I really loved was its mysteriousness. There is so much going on within the pages - from cloning and rebellious movements against it to Elysia's personal experiences and adventures - yet most of that is covered with a veil of mystery and secrecy. And while we do get some answers at the end, many of the questions are left unanswered. For the most part, the story line was positively unpredictable. The tension never let up and kept me on my toes all throughout the book. The only thing I could possibly complain about is that I now have to wait so long to find out what happens next! And that ending?! Oh. My. Gosh. Talk about a killer cliffhanger!(less)
Have you ever been bullied or teased? Have you been laughed at for being overweight, too tall or too short, too nerdy, or simply not cool enough to fi...moreHave you ever been bullied or teased? Have you been laughed at for being overweight, too tall or too short, too nerdy, or simply not cool enough to fit in? What if you could do something about it? What if you were offered a chance to join a secret group, one that would offer you understanding, support and friendship? And what if you could get revenge on all the people that humiliated you over and over again, hurt your feelings, smashed your confidence and dreams to pieces? Would you do it?
When Charlotte's father is offered a new job, the entire family moves to a different town. For Charlotte that means starting her senior year at a new school (which, obviously, is not easy), but also a new beginning and a chance to get away from Tiffany, a girl that bullied her at her previous school. But her hopes for a fresh start are dashed when she learns that Tiffany's family moved, too, and her tormentor will be attending the same school. Once again, Charlotte feels trapped, lonely and afraid. So when an opportunity presents itself to join a secret club called League Of Strays, Charlotte takes it, thinking she finally found a group of people she can trust and rely on. Little does she know the trouble she's getting herself into...
League Of Strays is a one of the most interesting novels I've read this year. Skilfully written, emotionally engaging, powerful, at times even deeply disturbing, it's a fascinating and complex creation. A story with a message that is extremely important and provocative, relevant and disquieting. Many books have been written about bullying, most of them from the perspective of the victim, some from the bully's point of view. League Of Strays is different from all of them, because it offers the reader an insightful look at both sides of the spectrum. And not only do we get to explore both sides of the story, but we can also see what happens when the bullied become bullies themselves. It's a book about misplaced trust, revenge, fear and peer pressure, loneliness, desperation and finding somewhere to belong. A story of people who are so hungry for attention, friendship, kindness and acceptance that they'll push their limits and do just about anything to get all that.
I found the characters to be extremely well developed. Some of them inspire sympathy, others (like Kade) are all too easy to hate and despise, in the end, though, all of them are essential to the story. L.B. gives them distinct personalities and talks about the motives behind their actions, their feelings, fears and hopes. She assigns each of them an important role to play and breathes life into their paper souls. I can't say that I liked them, but these characters are not meant to be liked or admired, they're real, flawed, lost and confused. You sympathize with them, you feel sorry for them, you get angry at them, you find yourself relating to them, but you don't really like them. Kade? Kade is a whole different story. He's a perfect anti-hero. Manipulative, charismatic, dangerous and cruel, he knows exactly what to say to get people to do what he wants them to do. Charming and caring on the outside, he's all rotten and evil on the inside. A true monster in disguise. I'd read this book just for this fascinating character alone!
There's no denying the fact that this is a book with a moral, an issue-driven story designed to teach the reader something about life and bring light to a very important topic: bullying in schools. Finding this message is up to you, though, as L.B. does not spoon-feed anything. To me, the message was clear: bullying is not OK. It's never OK, in any form or shape, even if bullying is a response to being bullied. Actions have consequences, no wrongdoing goes unpunished and, in the end, the story concludes in a very satisfactory way, but to get there you need to read all the way to the end, and you need to read with understanding. Nothing is obvious, things are not what they seem to be at a first glance, there are lies, deception and manipulation involved, and to see through all that, you really need to focus on the story and let it carry you away. I've seen way too many people misunderstand the message in this book and all I have to say to that is: no, this book does not in any way condone or promote homophobia or bullying. If you think it does, you have clear comprehension problems, or you're nitpicking at certain scenes in the book, taking them totally out of context.
L.B. Schulman's writing style is honest, raw and very smooth. It invokes many emotions, good and bad alike. Personally, I found League Of Strays to be absolutely unputdownable. Not only was I dying to find out how the story will end and when/if the revenge-madness will stop, but I was also genuinely scared for Charlotte and afraid of Kade's manipulative personality. I won't lie, this book was all kinds of creepy and disquieting, but never - not even for a minute - was it a meaningless, pointless kind of creepy and disquieting.
At less than 300 pages long, League of Strays is a fairly quick read, but also one that is sure to resonate deep within. It's the kind of story that stays with you long after you turn the final page. I myself was deeply affected by its profound message and couldn't stop thinking about the plot, the characters and the events depicted within its pages. L.B. Schulman did a remarkably great job shaking me out of my comfort zone. Her story sent cold shivers down my spine, made me wince and frown, pulled me deep into a very dark and unpleasant place. It's a thoroughly riveting blend of drama and thriller, and an unforgettable look at the nightmare side of high school. A brooding and unnerving piece of contemporary fiction that I highly recommend to fans of intelligent and provocative issue-books. (less)
***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
Emma Hearts LA was an...more***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
Emma Hearts LA was an adorable, quick read. A perfect little treat for long summer afternoons on the beach. While it's not exactly a book that will change your life, it's most definitely an enjoyable, charming book with a simple but solid plot line, and characters that you'll adore. I honestly did not expect to like it that much, heck - I did not expect to like it all! - but I couldn't help falling under its charm. In the end, this book proved do be really fun and entertaining, and although I did have a few problems with it, they were small and easy to overlook thanks to this book's undeniable sweetness and readability.
If you had a chance to read Keris Stainton's previous book, Jessie Hearts NYC, you probably remember Emma, Jessie's best friend. You'll be pleased to know that Emma now gets her very own story, and what a story it is! The book kicks off with Emma arriving in Los Angeles, where her brilliant astro-physicist mom was offered a new job. Emma's not very thrilled about the move overseas (reluctant to leave her friends and father behind), but there isn't much she can do about it, the decision has been made. Shortly after arriving in the US, Emma realizes that LA isn't as bad as she thought. In fact, it's every teenage girl's dream destination - filled with sunny beaches, celebrities, vibrant night life, hot guys, beautiful tourist attractions and plenty of new possibilities. Reunited with her nerdy childhood friend, Oscar, Emma quickly adapts to the new surroundings. She's also very pleased to see that Oscar is no longer the awkward, annoying kid he used be. He's a blush-worthy, attractive, confident young man, and one that seems to be interested in Emma in a romantic way. And he's not the only one! There's also the hot and famous TV show star, Alex, and he, too, seems to be very fond of our pretty, English girl. Is it just me, or is it suddenly getting very hot in here? ;)
As much as I enjoyed this book, I can't say that I instantly fell in love with it. In fact, it took me about 100 pages to actually get into it. It was mainly due to the fact that the first 100 pages or so act as nothing more but a set up for the love triangle that comes later, and, for a book that is only 250 pages long, it's a very long set up. That is not to say that the first part of the book is totally meaningless and unnecessary. Yes, it could be a bit shorter, and yes, I would certainly like to get to the point a bit faster, but the part about Emma moving to LA, and Bex getting invited to a movie casting and learning the ins and outs of show business, was very interesting to read about, too. I guess what I'm trying to say is: Try to keep an open mind, enjoy the ride, and don't give up on this book too early. It's a book worth sticking with all the way to the end. The second part of the book makes up for the first, slower one, and if you push through and keep on reading, you'll be rewarded with a cute, sigh-worthy love story, funny dialogues and perfectly satisfying ending.
While it's clearly a spin-off of Jessie Hearts NYC, it's also a book that stands entirely on its own. You do not need to read about Jessie's adventurous to be able to enjoy reading about Emma's. Both books are stand-alones, and although they share some of the same characters and ideas, there is nothing that could prevent you from enjoying one without knowing the other.
Overall, this was a great, quick read that kept me pretty entertained all the way through. I enjoyed the funny dialogues and thought that Keris Stainton did a great job depicting teenage relationship's, with all their angst, idiosyncrasies, and occasional awkwardness. She made me believe in these teenagers and care for them. And although the romance part was missing steam and chemistry, I most certainly appreciated the humour and lightness of it. It's a drama-free book, and I wouldn't have it any other way. I recommend this book for a quick, summer read!
I absolutely loved Dreaming Anastasia series, and Anastasia Forever - the third and final instalment - in particular. If...more Two words: Russian folklore.
I absolutely loved Dreaming Anastasia series, and Anastasia Forever - the third and final instalment - in particular. If you're into folklore, myths, legends, spooky bedtime stories about witches and fantastic creatures that are out there to get you.. well, this is the series for you! Featuring rich Eastern European mythology, culture and history, Anastasia Forever is a breath-taking conclusion to a mervellous, enticing and beautifully-written YA Historical Romance about love, destiny, immortality, dreams, long buried secrets and freedom. A well-researched, absolutely fascinating and dangerously addictive story that I couldn't put down!
As much as I would love to discuss the plot, I can't. This is the third and final novel, and therefore anything I would say would be a spoiler for those of you who haven't yet read it. But let me just tell you that this was one of the best, most exciting and satisfying final books I've had the pleasure of reading. Even more fast-paced and entertaining than the previous two books, even more fun and charming (with all the awesome supporting characters and their often-hilarious interactions), even more heartbreaking and mesmerizing. When I finished reading it, I immediately felt the need to sit down and re-read the entire series. It was that good.
It's a story of three people whose lives are intertwined with each other in the most bizarre, intriguing way. Anne - a sixteen year old girl from Chicago - is connected through bloodline to some tragic and mysterious events from the past. When one day Anne accidentally collides with a handsome blue-eyed boy named Ethan, her whole world gets flipped inside out in a blink of an eye. Ethan tells Anne that Anastasia Romanov - the girl Anne has been dreaming about every night - is not dead. She's been captured and held captive by the Russian witch Baba Yaga. And the only person who can help free Anastasia is Anne. With that starts an adventure that is just as exciting as it is dangerous, and just as magical as it is romantic. An adventure that now - sadly - comes to an end in this extraordinary final book! Special powers, time travel, bizarre creatures Anne never thought existed outside of fairy tale books - our heroine will have to face all that and more.. Is she strong enough to help Anastasia?
This series was - and I'm not exaggerating - totally mind blowing. I love mythology and folklore, and Russian folklore in particular has so much to offer! It's so rich in beautiful (often vividly depicted, creepy) tales and spooky stories. And Joy Preble did a magnificent job researching all that and then incorporating all the most fascinating information into the story. At times I was oooh-ing and aaah-ing, other times I'd get goosebumps, but I never felt bored or uninterested in the events that were unravelling before my eyes. The story line moved swiftly and was full of heart-pounding events. There were many jaw-dropping twists and turns, and in the end I was left breathless, but with a huge smile on my face, satisfied and content.
All the characters in this series are wonderful. I found myself connecting with Anne and Anastasia in more than one way, and I couldn't help but to fall under Ethan's charm. They're all complex, likeable, realistic and strong. I especially loved the fact that our female lead was a strong, powerful character, who - even though she sometimes did make mistakes - was ready to face whatever life would throw her way, always finding a way to overcome all the obstacles. She was a fighter and I admired her. Not to mention that she was just so very easy to love - her personality was easy-going, likable, cheerful, and positive.
All the side-kicks were great, too, especially Tess and Ben. For supporting characters I found them exceptionally fleshed out and their presence added a lot of flavour to the story. Joy Preble built an incredible world, filled with historical events (the Romanov and their tragic story!), mythical creatures, goosebumpy stories and characters you genuinely care about. On top of all that, her smoothly flowing, captivating prose was like a breath of fresh air! I was amazed how much I ended up loving this series, and am so very sad to see it come to an end.
At the same time, though, I'm so excited to see what else this incredibly talented author has in store for us! (less)
***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
From the moment I firs...more***Originally posted to: Bookish Book Blog |YA and Adult Book Reviews, Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Giveaways and news! ^___^
From the moment I first heard about The Vicious Deep, I've been pining for it. Both the promise of being introduced to mermaids that, as stated on the cover, are "not the mermaids you know", and the cover design hinting at this book being more of an adventure than a supernatural romance, got me extremely excited for this title. And the fact that the story is told from a male's point of view only made me want to read it more. Plus, I love all things dark and eerie, and this novel seemed like just the perfect treat for me. And in many ways it was. Yes, there were also a few things that I didn't like, but these tiny little shortcomings didn't stop me from thoroughly enjoying the story. Ultimately, I came out of reading this book feeling impressed and satisfied. The Vicious Deep is extremely unique and breathtakingly imagined YA debut, full of gorgeous creatures and dangerous adventures. Zoraida Cordóva is a talent to be reckoned with, her writing - both powerful and enticing, and there's no doubt in my mind that she can really turn this trilogy into one of the best - if not THE best - supernatural series out there.
I. Have. A. F**king. Tail.
I won't lie, I went into reading this novel with huge expectations. With all the hype it was getting, I was pretty much prepared to be swept off my feet. Was I swept off my feet? Yes, most definitely, although not right away. In fact, I found it very hard to get through the first 80 pages or so. The beginning of the story was quite chaotic, jumpy, and hard to focus on. I had serious trouble following the plot line and it took me a while to really get into the story, the awkward relationship between Tristan and Layla being one of the reasons for it. Thankfully, it gets so much better once we get past the first few chapters. For me, the story really took off when Tristan set out to the Sea Court to meet his grandfather (who also happens to be the King of the Sea Court, and one in need of an heir). That's when things got interesting. On the island, Zoraida introduces us to a whole new palette of fantastic characters, and tells us more about Tristan's heritage and what's expected of him. We taste the magic and experience the thrill of adventure. And there's an epic quest, too! How exciting is that?!
Cordóva has created a masterful, absolutely dazzling and refreshingly original mermaid world. Her vision, as well as the amount of thought she put into it, is really awe-worthy. I really enjoyed both the social and political aspects of the story, I thought they were done brilliantly and added an interesting layer of complexity to the story. Vibrant and mesmerizing, the Sea Court is full of life, beauty and magic. There's also a darker side of it, something wicked and deadly lurking in the deep waters, creatures so vicious and blood thirsty that just reading about them sends a shiver down your spine. A delicious blend, yum!
I thought the characters were exceptionally well fleshed out. Especially Tristan. I've seen many people praising Cordóva for how great a job she did writing from a male's POV, and, well, it's hard not to agree with that. She really did it magnificently. Tristan's character shined with authenticity. Handsome (and well aware of the fact), cocky and flirtatious, Tristan is a hot teenage boy who never bothers to censor his thoughts, is painfully straight-forward, and sweetly oblivious of his own immaturity. His first concern after turning into a merman: "where does it go?" (it being the phallus) - yep, that pretty much sums up his personality. Undeniably, he's a very colourful character. I found him, although realistically drawn, rather unlikeable. That made it very difficult for me to connect with him as a person and care about what will happen to him next. It was fun and entertaining following his adventures, but in the end, I realized I liked some of the supporting characters way better (Kurt being one of the most fascinating and charming ones!). I also didn't care much for the whole dramatic "she loves me/she loves me not" romance going on. I just didn't feel the chemistry between the main characters, and, to me, the burning love Tristan supposedly had for Layla seemed quite fake and more of a "I want it so bad, because I can't have it" than actual devotion. And don't get me wrong, I do understand that pretty boys are easily distracted by pretty girls, but I would like it so much better if Tristan could focus on the girl he (supposedly) loves so much, rather than play a happy grass-hopper, jumping from one flower to another. On a brighter note, I thought it would be really great to see Layla and Kurt together. I think they would make a totally adorable couple.
Overall, this was an immensely entertaining, action-packed read. I loved the adventure aspect of it (who doesn't like epic quests?!), I really enjoyed the darker elements, too, and most of all - I was amazed by the phenomenal world building and the mythological background. Intense, thrilling, and visually breathtaking, The Vicious Deep is an excellent supernatural/fantasy adventure with elements of romance and mystery. Readers will not be disappointed!(less)
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