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| # | cover | title | author | isbn | isbn13 | asin | num pages | avg rating | num ratings | date pub | date pub (ed.) | rating | my rating | review | notes | recommender | comments | votes | read count | date started | date read |
date
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date purchased | owned | purchase location | condition | format | ||
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| 0062217070
| 9780062217073
| 3.93
| 616
| May 07, 2013
| May 07, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review Amy Tintera's debut, Reboot, is ano...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review Amy Tintera's debut, Reboot, is another fantastic dystopian young adult novel that alludes to a new brand of zombies. Tintera's characters show great growth as they struggle for freedom in an increasingly dangerous world. Tintera throws us a story that challenges us to view the "post-apocalyptic" world from the point of view of zombies, rather than the humans who have survived. She almost asks us, "Are humans just as evil as the zombies portrayed in past horror novels? Or have we had the story wrong all along?" Wren, the protagonist, is immediately introduced as the best and least human of all the Reboots, which is a fancy term for "humanized zombies". What I like about Wren is how her character growth is gradual, rather than immediate, and even near the conclusion of the novel, she still retains a few of her characteristics. The fact that Tintera can stay true to her character, rather than have her become absolutely human because of one boy, is awesome because it shows that Wren is her own person and not one part of a couple. Also, the character growth displays Wren's strength as a female protagonist--not because she is physically powerful or different, but because she learns how to be better, not for others around her, but for herself. Reboot has a shaky start, but when it picks up, wow, it really picks up! I couldn't put the book down as event after event took place. Though the events that occurred were slightly predictable, they were still fun to read. You feel Wren's emotions--despite her self-professed lack of emotions--when her world completely changes and when she meets the new guy. You wonder how can humans be so cruel to children who are just different, and you even wish you could take a swing at a few characters. (Particularly the man in charge). Since Reboot is a dystopian novel, the reader will notice the complex world Tintera has created. Though it may appear limited (only Texas survived? Huh?), one has to keep in mind that these generations of human survivors don't know any better than what their government tells them. In that sense, Tintera has created a world where we too are the slaves to the limited information we're given. For all we know, all the other states and countries have survived, but these characters' world is so small and limited, that we might as well believe what we are being told. Reboot also showcases a powerful romance that, in its own way, is a political statement. Wren's relationship with her love interest (I will not ruin this for you!) is viewed as very odd because of the differences in status, and even as the conclusion nears, we note the discrimination between Reboots--which is ironic, considering how humans treat the Reboots. This in turn mimics our own society and how we too can have prejudices within our own minorities. I recommend Reboot to readers of dystopian fiction that revamp popular paranormal creatures. These aren't bloodthirsty zombies (or are they?), these are military kids fighting for so-called peace in a corrupt environment. We are given the chance to empathize with the characters we would normally view as antagonists. If you like action, there is a heck of it in Reboot. We jump from one action filled situation to another, it never really lets up--which is awesome. Reboot's conclusion is also extremely promising, since what we're left with makes us crave the sequel--there are so many questions left to be answered, will they be answered in the next book?(less) | Notes are private!
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1
| Apr 29, 2013
| May 2013
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Apr 22, 2013
| Hardcover
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| 0062193856
| 9780062193858
| 3.95
| 2,054
| Jan 01, 2012
| May 21, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review C.J. Daugherty's Night School is a...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review C.J. Daugherty's Night School is a young adult novel that first made it big in the U.K., and now, lucky for us, is being released in North America! When a reader first hears the title of Daugherty's novel, many cliches come to mind. Oh, it must include some sort of paranormal themes. Oh, it must be super secretive and dramatic--lots of crazy romance, and catty people. While Night School does contain two of the above statements (I won't tell you which ones because there is no way I'm ruining that for you), it surpasses the common ideas someone may have of novels that have similar names, or feature similar settings. Personally, I love boarding schools and the fact that Daugherty offers an original premise, within an admittedly creepy atmosphere, makes it all that much more delicious. With great character growth, secrets, and unlikely allies, Night School is a must read for anyone seeking a spooky, romantic, and fun read. Allie, the protagonist, is spunky when we first meet her. A law-breaker for reasons we learn later on in the novel, she is someone difficult who tries nearly anything to fill the emptiness inside of her. When her parents decide that she's going to a boarding school in the middle of nowhere, she is less than pleased. For a while, we are left wondering: What will Allie do? Will she rebel? But the truth is that Allie, a former good girl, still shows hints of the person she used to be. What I like about Allie's character is how, unlike the latest stream of girls who fall in love with the first jerk who crosses her path in today's literature, she stands up for herself and immediately says what's on her mind. And while she isn't perfect (because honestly, who is?), it is her imperfections that endear her to us. Her ability to shed (literally) the skin she wore back in London, so she can grow to be a better person, is powerful because it shows that even the most lost causes are never truly lost--only hidden beneath metaphorical walls of anger and for some, lack of feeling altogether. The other characters, however, were trickier to navigate. Daugherty, whether intended or not, teaches us to not jump to conclusions about people. First impressions are important, but they can also be toxic--rendering the protagonist helpless when the "friends" and "love interest(s)" suddenly change and become strangers. This is perhaps a great imitation of teenaged friendships and how even the strongest of relationships might actually only be tenuous. I will admit however, that while I understand this message now, at the time I was a little taken aback by the sudden shifts in personality. One minute certain people were amazing, and then they weren't. This all goes back to how people react under stress and grief, and how sometimes shifts in character personalities need to be hinted at prior to the sudden changes, so as to not disorient the reader--but then, wouldn't this just serve as a means to feel what Allie is feeling in her predicament? Food for thought. The romantic aspect of Night School is a little chaotic. I mean, it was delicious, but a little messy. We are given hints as to what Allie is getting herself into, and even she unconsciously remarks on certain strange aspects of her love interest's personality. I'm more than happy with her final decision, because it was obvious from the get-go, but I like how it wasn't insta-love, but instead something that she had to figure out through trial and error--even if the error was a huge one. The conclusion and answers we are given are completely unexpected. Scratch everything you think you know about boarding schools, because Daugherty gives you something completely different than what you had in mind during the whole novel. Not only are the answers surprising, but they will also make you crave more--which is great, since Daugherty has already released the sequel...in the U.K. (unless you buy it used on Amazon). If you like mystery, romance, surprises, and sexy--erm--students, you might like Night School. I definitely recommend it as a fun read, especially since Summer promises to be a season full of great reading!(less) | Notes are private!
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1
| May 15, 2013
| May 18, 2013
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Apr 17, 2013
| Hardcover
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| 3.71
| 91
| Jan 01, 2013
| Apr 30, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review Sketchy by Olivia Samms has a prett...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review Sketchy by Olivia Samms has a pretty cool concept: former drug-abuser has the quirky, but eerie, ability to draw whatever crosses a person's mind. The mystery is disturbing and the fear is palpable, while the characters are unique and witty--despite the morbid content of the novel. Samms's debut is a potentially powerful read that lacks strong dialogue, but makes up for it with an edgy premise. Bea, the protagonist, is an opinionated girl who is put into a new (and very huge) public high school, after years of attending a private all-girls school. There she not only meets the first mystery in the series, but she learns about her unique gift. The cool thing about Bea is that she is an imperfect protagonist dealing with real issues (such as drug abuse), and who is of mixed heritage. I think that is the coolest aspect about her, physically, that she not only stands out with her personal history and gifted artistic talent, but that she physically stands out from the crowd. Samms touches on many different issues in her debut, making it more than just a cute little murder-mystery. Rape, race, sexuality, bullying, and drug abuse are the main themes explored in Sketchy. As can be imagined, the tone of this novel can vary from very dark, to light and endearing. The prose is powerful (so as to match the themes) and the pacing is quick. One of the best aspects of Sketchy is how it pulls the reader in because s/he really wants to know who is behind the attacks. I couldn't put the book down, even though I was a bit wary at the beginning. My anxieties over Sketchy were proved wrong as the story gained momentum and eventually led to a hair-raising conclusion. What I wasn't very keen on was the dialogue, and while I did giggle like a fool, I was confused about the romance. For starters, I don't even know the love interest's age, which may be a problem (considering who he is, but I am not spoiling that for you). I mean, he sounds very cute and caring, but we don't know anything about him. I'm hoping that in the future installments, Samms will go more into detail regarding Bea's relationship with her supposed love interest. The dialogue is very weak. I think Sketchy can be more powerful if the dialogue reflected the rest of the prose. It feels very childish and awkward. While the tone and main theme of the novel is dark, the dialogue feels forced and a bit antiquated. Since Sketchy is a novel for a young adult audience, I wouldn't mind seeing a little more colloquial writing in future installments--especially since nowadays it is easier to connect with dialogue that not only flows naturally, but mimics our modern dialect, no matter how flawed it may be. Would I recommend Sketchy to fellow readers? Yes! Though it has flaws, it is a very interesting read. Sketchy is one of those books that pulls you in and does not let you go until you've reached the end. I recommend Samms's novel to lovers of young adult contemporary murder mystery novels that touch on social issues. Also, if you like low-key paranormal situations, then this one is the book for you. Bea's talent for drawing others' thoughts is a very promising premise. I can see many more books spawning from this very cool ability--the possibilities are nearly endless. I know I will be checking out the next book in this series!(less) | Notes are private!
| none
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1
| Apr 15, 2013
| Apr 16, 2013
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Apr 15, 2013
| Hardcover
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| B009NG14WK
| 3.50
| 223
| Apr 30, 2013
| Apr 30, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review Katie Sise's The Boyfriend App is a...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review Katie Sise's The Boyfriend App is a great contemporary young adult debut that explores the intelligent world of technology and how it affects its most recent generation. Through quickly paced prose, geeky romance (of the best kind), and witty dialogue (a definite must!), Sise tells a novel that goes beyond the cute synopses and dives into the importance of truth, friendship, and family. Audrey, the protagonist, is plagued by her ex-best friend's bullying, the lack of financial funds for college, her secret crush, and the poor financial state her and her mother have lived in since her father's death. But then, one of the most successful technology companies announces a contest: any high school student who creates a successful and popular app will win $200,000. Whoa. There are a few things that were hard not to love in Sise's novel: the humor aspect, despite the darker themes; the growing experience Audrey goes through as she discovers that, to quote Voltaire, "with great power, comes great responsibility,"; and how Audrey's world is shaped by the characters surrounding and supporting her. The characters are so unconventionally nerdy that it makes me love them that much more. They are shy, smart, creative, and I won't lie when it comes to Audrey's love interest, sexy. The Boyfriend App evolves from a quirky, angst-ridden, and dark story, to one of character growth and, at times, unrealistic situations. The romance is super sweet, if not a little obvious. I know it's a character trait when a protagonist is oblivious to the affection of those around her, but I still find it a little annoying when the truth is not only obvious, but the characters choose to live in their ignorance. But, putting aside my disdain for naive characters, the romance develops slowly and with a lot of promise. Sise plays with her readers as she dangles the idea of a romance between Audrey and her love interest within reach, but doesn't completely give them the obvious conclusion right away. She lets the story develop and her characters grow before she gives us what we want for Audrey. The contrast between Audrey's knowledge of the digital world and that of the real world is interesting. Whereas she is incredibly smart with the former, the novel allows for Audrey to grow and learn more about the latter. I like the comparison of the two worlds as they co-exist because at times, with all of the explanations Sise offers us about HTML Coding and what-not, it helps ground the reader in the here and now--the current state of things for Audrey. She cannot escape her problems via her computer, so we shouldn't be able to escape either through her vast explanations. Audrey's relationships with the characters around her are revealing. Her relationship with her cousin is touching, while her feelings for her love interest reveal how powerful and important friendship is to her. Her relationship with her mother is at times strained, but she is a teenager recovering from her father's death, so her tendency to shut her mother out is understandable, making her relatable. What I didn't like about the novel was how unrealistic it was. Okay, a boyfriend app is a possibility, but as the original app evolves with a little extra oomph, Sise pushes the boundaries between reality and science fiction. Who knows? Perhaps in the future we will see apps that can control everything about you, emotionally, but for now it is a little hard to swallow. Especially in a contemporary young adult novel. Also, and this is just a little comment on the continuity of the novel, there is a scene where the characters are scrolling and searching for a particular name in a list. My question is, if these characters are computer brainiacs, why couldn't they just hit: CTRL+F? I know, I know. It's a little thing, but for some reason it really bugged me. I know computer geniuses and they never navigate computers the "normal" way--instead, they always have a CTRL+this or a CTRL+that shortcut. Despite the aforementioned flaws, Sise's novel has a lot of raw emotion. Audrey is still recuperating from her dad's accidental death and the loss of her best friend. The Boyfriend App has a catchy title, but the themes within the novel are much darker than the title suggests. A few of these themes are: Bullying, to the point of physical abuse, occasionally takes place; the addicting qualities behind technology in today's society; and depression is shown by Audrey's addiction to her computer, since it was the greatest shared interested she once held with her father. The Boyfriend App is a young adult novel that readers of contemporary fiction will enjoy, even with the little touches of technology here and there, since they add character to the novel. I recommend this to readers who want a quick book to read that has a protagonist who starts off as weak, but comes out at the end as a powerful force. (less) | Notes are private!
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1
| Mar 31, 2013
| Apr 2013
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Mar 27, 2013
| Kindle Edition
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| 0062254316
| 9780062254313
| 3.86
| 29
| Apr 02, 2013
| Apr 02, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review Loretta Nyhan's The Witch Collector...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review Loretta Nyhan's The Witch Collector Part 1 is a fantastic read that is short enough to read in one day, but addicting enough to make the reader want the sequel to be available now. The reader is immediately brought into the action of the novel. We aren't entirely sure what will happen next and this will make the reader instantly curious about what this small family is running from. The pacing of Nyhan's novel is surprisingly strong, considering how short it is. Breeda, the protagonist, is a young witch full of questions that her parents never get around to answering before their disappearance. Nyhan expertly navigates Breeda's dangerous and confusing new world by giving us only what Breeda knows--this is enhanced by her use of the first person narrative. Nyhan uses brief flashbacks to describe Breeda's past and this technique can either work for the story, or it can go very, very wrong. In this case, the glimpses into Breeda's past are enjoyable and interesting because they do not dump information on the reader in excessive amounts. I usually find continuous flashbacks to be irritating and boring, but Breeda's beautifully cryptic past is full of unexplored mystery. Breeda is interesting because of her parents' mysterious disappearance and her abnormal growth as a witch, but it is the characters around her that truly make this an addicting read. The themes of family and redemption are strong in The Witch Collector, and Breeda's new friends all have a part to play in the mystery that begs to be solved. The chemistry between the other characters and Breeda is immediately warm and trusting, making this a refreshingly drama-free novel. Perhaps the greatest draw a future reader may have to The Witch Collector is how unique it is. I know, I know--the witchy/magic genre is currently full of newly published works, but Nyhan explores the darker aspects of witch craft in a very original way. Instead of strictly sticking to the cliched good vs. bad witch theme, Nyhan shows us that there is more to the dark arts than nefarious intents. Sometimes, you have to be bad to be good. I recommend The Witch Collector to fans of the magical genre. If you like shorter reads that feature great pacing, then you will enjoy this one. Original, exciting, and with slow-cooking romance, a young adult reader will devour Nyhan's novel.(less) | Notes are private!
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1
| Mar 28, 2013
| Mar 29, 2013
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Mar 26, 2013
| ebook
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| 0061255637
| 9780061255632
| 2.82
| 98
| May 21, 2013
| May 21, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review Bennett Madison's September Girls...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review Bennett Madison's September Girls is a provocative young adult novel that features a teenaged boy dealing with a family that is falling apart. When his father suggests an impromptu trip to a beach town as a way to start-over, he is more than a little skeptic. September Girls isn't a book that will be loved by everyone, thanks to the cussing and the sexually frustrated thoughts of a teenager whose brother is more than sexually active. But the thing is that Sam, the protagonist, is a boy dealing with his mom's abandonment of the family, let alone the fact that seventeen is a pretty tense age when it comes to sex. So yes, Madison's novel includes a protagonist (and various other characters) who swears and thinks about sex, but c'mon, he's a teenager and this is from his perspective. Plus, the character growth is superb. We see characters who are run by their sexual organs at the beginning, but the novel concludes with deeply changed characters. With sexuality being the unfortunate norm in teenaged society, I'm honestly not that disturbed with the fact that this protagonist is being egged on to have sex. The pressure he feels from his "perfect" brother, and from his sexually active best friend is reminiscent of the expectations placed on males at a young age. Madison's novel is just as much about the mysterious September girls, as it is about the mysterious thing we like to call "manhood". Putting that argument aside, I will state that despite the low ratings, this is a surprisingly great novel that forces us to think about the pressures we place on today's youth, and how the idea of "love" isn't as straight forward as fairy tales make it out to be. Madison's writing voice is beautiful, despite the swearing. Sam is a mature boy who is solitary and is going through some tough crap in his life. Loneliness has made him neurotic, but this beach he goes to changes him completely. The chapters are intermingled with both Sam's perspective and a mysterious narrator that hints to us just what Sam is dealing with. I was enthralled by the mystery, though I could guess what it was, because of the beautiful prose and descriptions that painted the world for me. The conclusion alludes to the fact that perhaps the summer on the beach was Sam's opportunity to both grow as an individual, and to understand his family better. As the final chapter suggests, however, this novel isn't just about Sam and his experiences, but about how love can live in the smallest of memories, even if we grow and move on. The quirkiness of September Girls comes from how unflinchingly honest it is. Whereas others play around the right words for describing something, Sam and the other characters simply say what they want to say. His brother, a sex-crazed jerk, is oftentimes pretty straightforward with Sam, even as he grows into more than just a pervy big brother. September Girls is an unconventional novel about love, family, and growing up. It's honest and doesn't bother to hide behind the facade of what we believe to be proper in society--it is a book with personality, and while some may not like it, others will find the beauty of Madison's writing and his ability to create characters with such bold personalities.(less) | Notes are private!
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1
| May 19, 2013
| May 20, 2013
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Mar 22, 2013
| Hardcover
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| 0062187457
| 9780062187451
| 3.71
| 160
| Apr 23, 2013
| Apr 23, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review I absolutely adored Sarah Strohmeye...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review I absolutely adored Sarah Strohmeyer's How Zoe Made Her Dreams (Mostly) Come True. Strohmeyer's new young adult contemporary novel is funny, touching, romantic, and as whimsical as the Fairyland Kingdom theme park the novel is set in. Zoe, the protagonist, is a teenaged girl who has a very close relationship with her happy go-lucky cousin, Jess. Her growth as a character isn't made obvious, but is instead hinted at by her choices and actions. She is a selfless character who never truly considers doing anything that is only beneficial for herself. This aspect of Zoe makes me love her because I can feel the love she has for her cousin, without having her explain how much she cares Strohmeyer's novel is about more than a summer full of cute boys and the cutthroat competition. It is about overcoming grief, remembering the important things in life, not focusing on outward appearances, to have hope, and to work for what you want. These themes make the novel less frivolous and simple, adding weight to what Zoe thought was going to be a fun summer. There's also a mystery that takes over the storyline. Strohmeyer is a talented red-herring weaver. She throws you a bone and though you're certain of what is coming next, you can't help but nibble at the proffered clues. She's also great at foreshadowing. The reader needs to pay attention to what is being said and hinted at, or else what is being said will go unnoticed. In all, Strohmeyer takes the predictable and makes it unpredictable. The romance found in the novel grows as the summer passes and lessons are learned. This summer is about Zoe and Jess, but the romantic situations the cousins get into are in themselves learning experiences. The romantic moments featured are memorable and simply perfect. I will admit that I may have giggled like a little girl when the romantic bits took place. The pacing is great and I honestly devoured Strohmeyer's novel. I couldn't put it down, since I needed to know what Zoe was going to do next. Other notable aspects of How Zoe... are the dialogue (which was FANTASTIC!), how relatable the characters are, the unexpected twist at the conclusion, and the promise of a life beyond the world of the novel. I recommend How Zoe... to readers who enjoy a sweet romance and adventure-filled summer in a Fairytale theme park. If you like young adult contemporary fiction, then pick this one up--you won't be disappointed. The dialogue is hilarious and realistic, while the characters will make you want to join them in their hectic summer away from home. (less) | Notes are private!
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1
| Mar 29, 2013
| Mar 30, 2013
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Mar 22, 2013
| Paperback
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| 0062201808
| 9780062201805
| 3.75
| 134
| May 07, 2013
| May 07, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review The beginning of May is riddled wit...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review The beginning of May is riddled with a few zombie novels that have opened up the world of zombies for us beyond the usual shambling and insatiable creatures that haunt our dreams. T. Michael Martin's young adult debut, The End Games, plays perfectly into this genre-changing month with its unique take on the undead, and its very emotionally stimulating and raw internal struggle. Brimming with stories untold and an extremely successful use of third person narrative, The End Games is a must-read for any young adult zombie enthusiast. I've mentioned in various other reviews that I am not a fan of third person narrative, whether it is omniscient or limited. But I will have to put that dislike to the side for this one. I was wary at first, since third person usually feels disconnected and unreliable, but wow, Martin sure knows how to cross the disconnected barrier. Though the narrative is obviously third person, the writing feels so personal and unique, that it made me want more and more. Michael, our seventeen-year-old protagonist, paints a distressing picture of a past that actually acts as a good opponent against his current predicament. Zombies, or as he and his five-year-old brother, Patrick, call them, Bellows (ingenius, since these creatures repeat whatever they hear), have taken over the world as we know it. They struck, ironically enough, on Halloween and offered both a purpose and salvation for the two lone brothers. We are pushed from liking Michael, to pitying him, hating him, then finally, having the hope that he is too afraid to have. He is only human and though he acts as more than that for his brother's sake, we are reminded many times of how insecure he is about his decisions. As we continue reading his story, we begin to find it difficult to discern the difference between his fearful reality and what is blissfully imagined. In fact, the internal struggle Michael experiences (occasionally written in spurts of stream of consciousness) is so powerful that we are often drawn to the darkness of his past, rather than the dangers of his present. And while he creates a somewhat safe world for his emotionally unstable little brother, we forget that Michael himself is a child who also needs to believe in something; who also needs protection from the past the two brothers are running from. While Patrick's inability to accept his surroundings as something more than just a game may infuriate me, I also understand that he is just a kid stuck in the middle of a zombie apocalypse with only his brother. Martin starts off the novel with a hook that is electrifying and immediately intriguing. Right off the bat, we want to know: What game is this? Who are these players? What are bellows? Who is this game master? Of course, aspects of religion are tossed in, as they usually are with post-apocalyptic novels, but I like how they are hinted at and occasionally used, but not to the extent where it is everything the protagonist thinks about. Sure you have your biblical lunatics here and there in The End Games, but let's be honest: aren't they, or any approximations of this genre cliche, in every post-apocalyptic novel? The tone and prose go hand in hand. Whereas one expects the prose to make up the tone (words, phrases, etc), Martin uses the (extremely cool) technique of letting the prose highlight the tone. Sometimes the text breaks up, or repeats itself, just to create a hyper awareness of Michael's surroundings, or his thoughts and memories. This also plays into making the whole third person narrative aspect of this novel unique. We aren't simply being told what is up, we are being shown how to feel what we are being told. One last note, and probably one of the more important ones when it comes to books like this one: The End Games is CREEPY. Very extremely, can't look away, block your eyes, look out your window to make sure there are no bellows out there, creepy. Gory, exciting, bloody, frustrating (thanks to humanity's occasional ignorance), and heart-warming (Patrick and Michael are the cutest siblings ever!), The End Games is a must-read. The End Games baited me with a very original and intelligent concept, hooked me with its twist just after we are introduced to the characters, and reeled me in with the fantastic storytelling. I await Martin's next book eagerly! (less) | Notes are private!
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1
| Apr 24, 2013
| Apr 29, 2013
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Mar 21, 2013
| Hardcover
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| 0062135929
| 9780062135926
| 3.94
| 82
| Sep 10, 2013
| Sep 10, 2013
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I can't write the review for this until August, but I really wish I could write it now! Kiersten White has outdone herself with this beautiful book! | Notes are private!
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1
| Apr 02, 2013
| Apr 04, 2013
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Mar 20, 2013
| Hardcover
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| 1440561087
| 9781440561085
| 4.02
| 56
| Mar 18, 2013
| Apr 18, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Merit Press in exchange for an honest review Leah Konen's debut, The After Gir...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Merit Press in exchange for an honest review Leah Konen's debut, The After Girls, is an exploration in how grief can affect everyone in different ways. Lunacy is both rampant and a very real threat, while the power of friendships and the need to know the truth rule the characters' lives. Eerie, dark, touching, and surprisingly romantic, Konen's novel shows the reader how death can have the power to either destroy you, or make you stronger. The concept of the story is very powerful. The After Girls begins with two best friends, Ella and Sydney, mourning the sudden death of their third best friend, Astrid. Astrid's suicide is not only the start of a near-tragic novel, but it is the theme that creates the dark tone within the pages. Even as Ella and Sydney find potential romance, their actions, thoughts, and decisions always have an echo of Astrid's death. Ella and Sydney not only have to heal after Astrid's death, they also have to learn how to be two, instead of three. This challenge is introduced when Sydney is forced to consider how Ella's mourning is all-encompassing. Konen teaches her readers that everyone has a different way of mourning, and though Ella's journey after her best friend's death is near psychotic and definitely obsessive, she too eventually finds peace. Sydney, however, is the interesting character. The After Girls is written in third person limited (to either Ella or Sydney), so we are allowed glimpses into both lives. Sydney, originally the rebel, changes and falls into near-destructive behavior--grief is a very dangerous emotion that opens up too many outlets for people to explore, especially teenagers. But then, suicide is a risky topic and a very real threat in today's society. Konen's novel does touch on how Astrid commits suicide, but unlike other novels depicting similar situations, The After Girls focuses more on how a sudden death can make some people complete opposites of who they used to be. Even with the darker themes of depression, obsession, and addiction, Ella and Sydney share delicate moments of friendship that hint to us that everything will be okay. They obviously care for each other like sisters, but they are so lost in grief, that they are barely holding onto each other. Given the situation, it's understandable that the characters will often clash in an attempt to understand their new messy world. Despite the seemingly despondent tone some of the characters adopt, Ella and Sydney experience love, both forbidden and unexpected. What I wasn't so keen on was how someone (who will remain nameless so as to avoid spoilers), who is apparently very important to one of the character, is barely shown in the novel. Of course, this could be intentional, so as to show us just how distant the characters are from each other, but I still found that odd. For some apparent reason it took me a long time to get through this. Any other day, I would think the pacing is fine. But every time I turned to read The After Girls, my brain would quickly turn to something else. The storyline is great, the mystery is thrilling and spooky, and the characters are challenges to be solved. Perhaps it was the narrative voice, which was kind of ambiguous, that turned me off more often than I'd care to admit. I blame this on the fact that I am not a huge fan of third person narration. The ending is nostalgic and fitting. The characters are given a chance to mourn, while hoping for a future--which, after the darkness in most of the novel, is a very light and welcoming conclusion. I recommend The After Girls to readers of contemporary young adult fiction. There is romance for the romantics, character growth, and an unforgettable tale of grief that will haunt the reader even after turning the last page.(less) | Notes are private!
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| Mar 30, 2013
| Apr 09, 2013
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Mar 12, 2013
| Hardcover
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| 1440557101
| 9781440557101
| 3.06
| 64
| Apr 18, 2013
| May 18, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from the publisher & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review Laurie Plissner...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from the publisher & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review Laurie Plissner’s Screwed is one of those young adult contemporary novels that feature dramatic reactions, the sometimes dark truth behind religion, and what it means to be the shattered image of perfection that sometimes hides our true selves. Plissner’s novel is daring in how it deals with religion, youth, and the very popular and unfortunate trend of teen pregnancy. Having read Louder Than Words, I was expecting a lot out of Plissner’s second novel. From the get-go, I noticed that it would be a completely different experience. The third person, omniscient narrative immediately stood out as something that might annoy me. If the story is about Grace, the protagonist, and her unplanned pregnancy, then why are we seeing how everyone else reacts to her situation? Shouldn’t we be worrying more about what Grace is experiencing, rather than what others think? Doesn’t this contradict the message of strength, hope, and love that we are ultimately receiving at the conclusion of the novel? Or, I may have not liked it simply because I’ve never been a fan of third person narrative…let alone omniscient narrators. I liked the romantic aspect of Screwed because it helped bring the beauty out of the ugly situation. It gave light to an otherwise bleak moment in Grace’s life. And with jerks like Nick, her unborn baby’s daddy, Charlie, her love interest, is a refreshing male character. He both respects her and treats her the way Nick unfortunately doesn’t. And though it is a little unrealistic, it still made me giddy whenever they were around each other. I also thought it was a nice touch to show Grace that one wrongly thought out decision doesn’t have to define the rest of her life. I’m not an advocate for abortion, nor am I an advocate for people to get abortions—I believe that this choice belongs only to the pregnant mother-to-be. So, it was nice to see that Grace’s choice to let the baby live was neither affected by her parents’ belief that it is only right to have an abortion, nor by her strict religious upbringing. While I am a sucker for a dramatic read, this was flirting with the idea of too much drama. It almost felt like Plissner was trying to get a rise out of the reader. I know it is vital to affect your readers’ emotions, but sometimes subtlety works over the dramatic. The intensity reached the point of unrealistic for me, but hey, there are a few parents out there who are just as harsh as Graces—neighbours like hers though…not so sure. In some ways, Screwed also reads like a fairy tale waiting to happen. Great and loyal love interest (where was he when Grace was being tormented in school?), a best friend who would do anything for her and loves her unconditionally (where was she when Grace was being tormented in school?), and a neighbour that proves to be her fairy godmother (Why is she in a less than stellar neighborhood, conveniently close to Grace?)—Grace has it all. She’s just lucky like that, despite her ever-growing belly. Also, throw in the slightly confusing and extended conclusion that made the novel drag. Also, I was kind of mad that I didn’t get to see what happened to Nick. Yes, I believe it is hinted at, and yes this was Grace’s (semi, anyway) story, but still. Shouldn’t the reader get the satisfaction in seeing Karma at her finest? I did love some of Plissner’s prose and descriptions—one of her best writing attributes—and the little notes Grace writes for the baby. I also loved her relationship with her neighbour and how at the end, there are hints of second chances. But the pacing was off—there were often scenes that were simply skimmed over—and the characters were a little unbelievable and unreliable. I recommend Screwed to fans of quick and dramatic story lines. If you enjoy pregnancy stories, you might like this too. Religion tends to play a heavy hand in this one, but in both a negative and positive light. I’m not a huge fan of religiously motivated decisions, but it’s not so extreme that it makes Screwed off-putting. The romance is sweet and this is a very quick read.(less) | Notes are private!
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| May 12, 2013
| May 15, 2013
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Mar 12, 2013
| Hardcover
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| 1451695160
| 9781451695168
| 3.37
| 260
| May 07, 2013
| May 07, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review The S-Word by Chelsea Pitcher is a...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review The S-Word by Chelsea Pitcher is a dark reminder of how bullying can sometimes lead to tragic conclusions. Pitcher's novel, however, is also a reminder of how grief can alter our perspective, and how sometimes the struggle we go through in search of the truth may destroy us more than we know. Reading Lizzie's change in the many diary copies that are passed around at school is chilling, since she goes from a hopeful and quiet teen, to someone whose dreams foreshadow her downfall. Pitcher's novel starts with a bang. The word "slut" is written in black marker on Lizzie's locker, her best friend and protagonist, Angie, is the one who has the power to say something, to stop the bullying, but she is also hurt--after all, she is the one who was betrayed by Lizzie. For a while, the story fizzled, fighting to regain that incredible hook, but it wasn't until the major twist in the novel occurred, just after the half-mark, that I became absolutely hooked. While the themes of bullying, sexuality, rape, abuse, racism, gender identity, and suicide are incredibly touchy subjects, Pitcher dives in head first with her protagonist into each theme. She battles the prejudice surrounding homophobic reactions in high school, and is surprisingly powerful against the bullying that students, despite the recent suicides, still partake in. While I do love that Pitcher explores all of these topics unflinchingly, I find that perhaps it is too much. Yes, it is true that in every high school there is some sort of bullying, but, for the sake of a linear storyline, exploring all of these topics makes the novel feel unsure of where it wants to go--therefore, leaving too many unanswered questions, too many unresolved issues, and too many conflicts that take away from the main themes of the novel, which I presume are bullying and suicide (and okay, okay, I know that many things can fall under bullying, but The S-Word does not have to be the book to bring these issues to light, too many issues can be overwhelming--or perhaps it is just the way Pitcher presents them.) I couldn't really connect with the dialogue. It felt... dorky. I don't know how teenagers talk now in high school, but I felt like the dialogue was a forced kind of cool that I would have used when I was in middle school. It didn't feel age appropriate and instead of sounding cool and contemporary, it sounded weird and outdated. Despite my misgivings with certains aspects of The S-Word , I was able to enjoy it (for the most part). I loved the romance and the hope that it symbolized, especially given the dark tone of the novel. Angie, despite her Nancy Drew (with a twist) qualities, was realistic in that she truly felt the loss of her best friend. I liked her because she found a way to forgive herself, thanks to her wonderful character growth. Her internal struggle is heartbreaking and I think that that is the most powerful point of Pitcher's novel. I will admit that The S-Word is very addicting. Even though I giggled like a fool at the dialogue and I wondered where Pitcher was taking the storyline, I needed to know more. I craved the truth and I wanted to see what Angie was up to. The pacing may have been a little too fast for me, but I still found my way through Angie's struggle. Keep in mind though, dear reader, that perhaps the prose is a reflection of Angie's internal struggle--the confusion, the fast-paced aspect of it all, and the urgency within the pages that sometimes jumps from one place to another--these may all be a reflection of how much Angie has changed since Lizzie's death. After all, the twist that I mentioned earlier in the review will make you put the book down and say, "Damn."(less) | Notes are private!
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| May 2013
| May 03, 2013
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Mar 08, 2013
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| 0758285531
| 9780758285539
| 4.13
| 508
| Apr 30, 2013
| Apr 30, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review Even though it's been a week or so...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review Even though it's been a week or so since I read Brigid Kemmerer's short story, "Breathless", I'm still grinning from ear to ear. I absolutely LOVED reading from Nick's perspective! The short story is loaded with so much potential for the future novel based on Nick's life (set to release in January 2014), that I'm going all crazy over here with giddiness. If you're unfamiliar with Kemmerer's Elemental series, here's what's up: Four hot brothers, four amazing natural gifts based on these elements: Earth, Water, Air, and Fire; Spirit being a very rare fifth element that combines all four Earth elements. What's so awesome about this series? Each book portrays a different character's perspective and the struggles s/he faces with his/her own talent and other personal situations. Kemmerer has also written juicy short stories regarding some of the lesser known characters, such as "Breathless". Nick is the twin of quick-tempered Gabriel, so we're usually sidetracked by Gabriel's fiery emotions. But not this time, this one is all about Nick. "Breathless" tells us the story of a very confused teenaged boy as he tries to understand want he truly wants in life. Since we barely know anything about him from the previous installments in the series, it is very surprising to learn what his struggles are. Especially when he is portrayed as the attractive, intelligent, and more level-headed twin. When you have very attractive and masculine brothers, it's kind of hard to follow your heart--at least in Nick's situation. But his flustering behavior is very cute and it helps the reader sympathise with him. Though very limited, Nick's story tells us so much more about him than we've ever learned. We learn that not only is he not secure with who he is, but he is unsure of his future. When he is faced with a possible love interest, he is immediately confused and doesn't know how to react. The short story spans one night full of electrifying chemistry, and I was surprised by the powerful coming-of-age tale. Relationships, friendships, family, and love are tested as Nick goes in deeper and deeper into who he truly is. I'm so excited with what comes next for Nick, and I cannot wait to see how he tackles this new part of his life. I'm also really happy that Kemmerer created this short story, which in reality, is just a short teaser for us Elemental fans. If you haven't read the series, I suggest you do--hot and powerful male characters who respect women, but also have their own struggles to face--what's not to love?(less) | Notes are private!
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| Apr 16, 2013
| Apr 17, 2013
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Mar 07, 2013
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| 9780984809622
| 4.60
| 5
| Feb 20, 2013
| Feb 20, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review Stray by Evan Fuller is the antici...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review Stray by Evan Fuller is the anticipated sequel to Mutt, Fuller's 2011 debut, and the second book in the Rittenhouse Saga. Written in beautifully descriptive prose and set in a complex post-apocalyptic and dystopic world, Stray is a must-read sequel. Whereas Mutt acted as an introduction to the Rittenhouse Saga, Stray focuses more on the characters and their development after the tragedy that strikes Emery, the protagonist, at the conclusion of Mutt. In a way, I like to think Stray is a preparation for the fight Emery and his friends are going to go through in the remainder of the series. Of all characters, Emery's destructive growth is the most haunting, since it is the portrayal of a kind of lucid madness brought on by grief. The secrets, darkness, and naivety of the world Emery inhabits come to light in Stray, giving even more depth to the series. One of my favorite aspects of Stray is how the uncertainty, fear, and urgency is felt throughout the novel. We, as readers, are made to empathize with Emery as he races against not just the odds, but the clock. We cringe with him as he uncovers truths, and feel deep sadness for the past secrets he shares. Just like Mutt, Stray has a fantastic series of heart-pounding scenes where Emery is tested beyond his limits, and where the story reaches suspenseful climaxes. Fuller has a skill for creating anticipation and delivering what the reader seeks with style. What I wasn't a huge fan of was the pacing. Though beautifully written, the prose is sometimes weighed down with description, slow-progressing situations, or internal struggles. It took me much longer to read it than I'm accustomed to and I think it was because it was a very heavy read--by heavy I mean overly wordy. I would recommend Stray to readers of dystopian young adult fiction. Fuller does more than bring forth an interesting and original series, his novel asks as to consider the following: "What would you do if you lived in an incredibly oppressive world (much more oppressive than our current one), and more importantly, would you risk everything to make a difference--no matter how big, or small?"(less) | Notes are private!
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| Mar 05, 2013
| Mar 14, 2013
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Mar 05, 2013
| ebook
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| 006219979X
| 9780062199799
| 4.08
| 216
| May 14, 2013
| May 14, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review Parallel by Lauren Miller is a youn...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review Parallel by Lauren Miller is a young adult sci-fi debut that explores the “what-if” theme. It is a very unassuming novel that begins like many other young adult novels with fluffy story lines. But when we get accustomed to Miller’s fictional world and begin to guess at what will happen next, we are literally lifted from one place to another, which is quite mind-bending—and oh, so, so brilliant! Okay, I admit that this plot change came more of a surprise because I didn’t read the synopsis again before reading Parallel (which I strongly recommend!). But hey, it paid off. I was happily surprised and very intrigued as to what would happen next. Miller’s protagonist is relatable, goes through terrific character growth, and finds that sometimes the most obvious path isn’t always for us. Perhaps one of the best messages that Abby, the protagonist, can ever share with her reader is that things happen for a reason, and while one choice may work for someone else, it doesn’t necessarily have to work for you. And of course: You can’t escape/outrun/evade the past. That’s the tricky part. Oddly enough, Parallel reminded me of Pivot Point by Kasie West—another novel that I simply adored. What makes these two novels so successful? Well, for starters, they both challenge the norms of young adult literature. Whereas other novels who blatantly showcase love triangles, both Miller and West give us two separate stories that show the protagonists becoming closer and closer to both love interests. So, rather than having two guys fighting it out, or one telling the other to back off, we have one girl experiencing multiple lives with both guys. But even so, when it comes down to choice, we see what one version of the protagonist picks, while we guess what the other version does. I just really love that we’re given two love stories, rather than having to choose sides. Parallel, however, has its own delicious twist, which will tie everything in neatly together. Abby’s character growth is gradual as she comes to terms with the idea that the past is literally deciding her present. We don’t get a protagonist who immediately knows what to do (unrealistic), but someone who makes errors and learns from her mistakes, someone who stands up for what s/he wants, and dares to do something from outside her norm. Abby’s inability to accept that her parallel self is just an extension of herself shows that perhaps there are two stories, and not just one continuous story, being told. We feel Abby’s worry for an unstable present, but much like how Abby treats her past self as someone wholly separate from herself, we too see the two girls as two different characters we can’t help but connect with—which side should we take? Or, should we view both sides as a means to a common end—occasionally alluded to as “destiny”? Parallel is an addicting read that makes you question whether we live in a parallel world and how the choices we didn’t make would have affected us. It is a cautionary tale of how sometimes we take for granted what is given to us, and how we don’t realize everything we have until we lose it all. I recommend Parallel to readers of young adult romance and low-key sci-fi. Miller’s debut is an intelligent mystery/adventure waiting to be read. We often wonder if there are other worlds, but what if our choices are not only ours to make?(less) | Notes are private!
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| May 07, 2013
| May 09, 2013
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Mar 02, 2013
| ebook
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| 006209534X
| 9780062095343
| 3.72
| 230
| Apr 30, 2013
| Apr 30, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review Jordana Frankel's The Ward is a you...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review Jordana Frankel's The Ward is a young adult novel that sits on the edge between dystopian fiction and post-apocalyptic fiction, simply because there is a new, oppressive government, as well as a destroyed and unfamiliar world. The reason why I bring this up first is because this flirtation between the two genres gives Frankel's novel an advantage: originality in a sea of similar dystopians. Shock-full of action, adventure, danger, and emotional situations that will either make the reader burn with anger, or melt with tenderness, Frankel's The Ward is a young adult must-read of 2013--especially if you're looking for a dystopian/post-apocalyptic novel that reads more like a novel about an adrenaline junkie set to save those she loves, and to find the truth, then one that is just about political statements. The beginning of the novel is a little convoluted, since we're meeting the characters that will take up most of the story. We are introduced to Ren, the protagonist, in her early teens right before her life changes forever. The contrast between this old Ren and the new, more "improved" Ren that makes an appearance later on, is made obvious by her educated dialogue, internal monologue, and sense of self. Whereas you are introduced to a scraggly and loner-ish kid at first, you are guided through the majority of the story by a confident, strong, and emotionally-driven woman. The prose is great. Frankel, through the use of well-placed descriptions, shows us the world Ren inhabits, without info-dumping everything on us. We are led, like tourists, through the drowned city where Ren races against the big boys. I can easily picture Ren's world in my mind, making it much easier to know where she is going, without having to refer to the earlier bits in the novel. The issue of women vs. men in The Ward is especially bad in the races Ren participates in. Though she is powerful, the men still look down their noses at her--some even threatening her for being one of the better racers. While I did find this backwards thinking disturbing, it did add power to the novel because Ren has the ability to prove her assailants wrong. The characters, especially Ren, are so easy to connect with, even if we can't begin to imagine what her life must be like. We all have someone we love and want to protect; we all have those friends who mean more to us than we'd like to let on; we all have adult figures in our life that have changed us; and we all have that awkward crush that brings us to our knees. We all have hope, whether we believe it or not, and Frankel creates a character that exhibits everyone of these emotions. Frankly, Ren's humanity is what makes a character in such an impossible place so reliable and realistic. My issues were with teeny things. There were instances where the internal struggle kind of slowed things down for me. In a novel full of suspense, action, and go-go-go pacing, a pause for the protagonist to contemplate something may make you weary--especially right before a major event is about to take place. Also, while the descriptions of the world are beautiful, the smaller things, like what Ren drives, are left bare and to the imagination. I would have liked to know exactly what it is that Ren drives, not just a vague explanation of what it can do. The conclusion is open-ended (with a hint of hope), and allows for a promising sequel. Danger and excitement await the reader in the follow-up novel, (No pressure!) so it will be much anticipated! I recommend The Ward to readers who, like I mentioned before, enjoy dystopian fiction, but also want a touch of post-apocalyptic fiction thrown in there. The romantic theme does exist in the novel, but it does not overtake the storyline--which is more familial than romantic. The literary world is full of dystopian novels that tread similar paths, with The Ward, Frankel is offering something fresh, excited, and more than just a political read.(less) | Notes are private!
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| Apr 09, 2013
| Apr 14, 2013
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Mar 02, 2013
| Hardcover
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| 1477816429
| 9781477816424
| 3.17
| 159
| Mar 26, 2013
| Mar 26, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review You Know What You Have to Do by Bon...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review You Know What You Have to Do by Bonnie Shimko is a novel with an original concept and unique characters. The pacing of the story allows for Shimko's novel to be a quick read, but the story needs to be more fleshed out. The novel starts out with Mary-Magdalene, who is your average wallflower teenager turned murderer. Shimko makes Mary likeable by excusing the reasons why she commits the murders we witness in the novel. Sure, there are instances where more murders are almost committed, but Mary's ability to restrain herself redeems her as a character. What is interesting is how almost everyone around Mary is made to look horrible and shallow. Perhaps this is a way of further redeeming Mary's character, but I found her best friend's sudden change in personality unsettling, her childhood friend's actions uncharacteristic, and the one romantic opportunity sullied. I mean, I get that Mary's life kind of sucks, but I think Shimko goes a little overboard with the negativity in her novel. The pacing of the novel is way, way too fast and slightly confusing. One moment we're with Mary during the last day of school, and the next we're at the end of the summer. There are a lot of opportunities to tell us about Mary's struggles and to expand on the concept of hearing an evil voice during that time span, yet Shimko does nothing with it. She tells us what happens during the summer, but only after the events have taken place. As a result, the story feels rushed and messy. If there is some sequel I don't know about, then I hope it answers some of the questions leftover at the end of the novel. While I understand what Shimko is trying to do with her conclusion, it just feels sloppy. I felt so dissatisfied with the conclusion that I actually said, "That's it?" I know it sounds like I really disliked You Know What You Have to Do, but I didn't completely dislike it. I liked the character growth experienced by Mary (this can be seen at the end, where she grows a backbone), the relationship between the characters in Mary's home, despite the unconventional situation they live in, and how Mary's character teaches her readers various lessons regarding boys and friendships. I recommend Shimko's novel to readers who want a quick read that isn't too substantial. Shimko creates a quickly paced novel that will have you gasping and hoping to God that Mary stops before committing another crime, so it will definitely grip you. If you want something original, this book is it. (less) | Notes are private!
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| Mar 02, 2013
| Mar 05, 2013
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Mar 02, 2013
| Hardcover
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| 9780988468
| 9780988468900
| 4.03
| 284
| Dec 10, 2012
| Dec 12, 2012
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy in exchange for an honest review Terra by Gretchen Powell was a fantastic blend of...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy in exchange for an honest review Terra by Gretchen Powell was a fantastic blend of what is popular in today’s Young Adult dystopian genre, but Powell makes it her own by effectively introducing her own twists and originality—not to mention a heck of a conclusion. As we meet Terra, the protagonist, we are immediately taken into her world where the elite live in domed cities above and the people left on Earth are left to scavenge as a means of survival. Terra is full of spunk and life and though she’s had to prematurely grow up in order to raise her younger brother, she still has various qualities found in a teenager. What I like about Terra is that she behaves how I would expect a young adult to behave in a similar situation: she is over-protective, brave, and slightly stubborn—all characteristics that are relatable. The pacing of the novel is great and the storyline is easy to follow and enjoy. The reader gets seduced by the description and fluid prose. The world Powell has created is original and the reader can never truly be sure of what will happen next. One of the best aspects of Powell’s writing is that she has a talent for creating unexpected twists and turns. The character growth was interesting because Terra grows through the many questions she asks and the decisions she makes. Rather than being put into a new world and being challenged by what is unfamiliar to her, Terra is forced to view the world she lives in through new eyes. I loved this concept because Terra challenges the wrong I noted in her world, rather than staying mute. The romance was nicely built and was a cute side-story in the novel. While the reader is intrigued by the unique storyline, s/he is also rooting for Terra and her love interest—which, by the way, is not the most obvious character, another aspect of Powell’s novel I loved. I recommend Terra to fans of the dystopian genre and original story-lines that have fun and unexpected conclusions. Powell is an author to watch and her upcoming sequel offers more than just answers to the questions left in her cliffhanger conclusion, but a chance to see more wonderful work from this fantastic author. (less) | Notes are private!
| http://cbltourhosts.blogspot.ca/p/terra-terrestrials-1-by-gretchen-powell.html
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1
| Feb 12, 2013
| Feb 15, 2013
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Feb 09, 2013
| ebook
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| 3.83
| 18
| Jun 08, 2013
| Jun 08, 2013
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Emotionally stimulating and thought-provoking! Review will be posted closer to the publication date! | Notes are private!
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| Apr 22, 2013
| Apr 24, 2013
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Feb 07, 2013
| Paperback
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| 0062184687
| 9780062184689
| 3.80
| 131
| May 28, 2013
| May 28, 2013
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Review will be coming closer to the publishing date! Happy reading! | Notes are private!
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| May 20, 2013
| May 22, 2013
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Feb 02, 2013
| Hardcover
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| B009NG0UOI
| 3.68
| 263
| Apr 01, 2013
| Apr 30, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review Aprilynne Pike's Life After Theft i...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review Aprilynne Pike's Life After Theft is one of those ghost/haunting young adult novels that focuses more on character growth, rather than if the ghost and the female or male protagonist will fall in love with his/her tormentor. Pike's novel is a quickly paced tale of a ghost haunted by her choices and a protagonist who is, perhaps, too nice for his own good. Life After Theft is fun and witty, but it is also emotionally moving. The reader isn't just dealing with a snarky ghost, Kimberlee, s/he is witnessing someone find herself, despite her death, and her dark deeds when she was still alive. This aspect of the novel is what brings Pike's novel up a notch. But Jeff, the protagonist, grows as well. His life has already changed by the time we meet him, but it changes even more once he meets Kimberlee. She forces him to move beyond his comfort zone, while his love interest challenges him to take a person as she is, rather than base everything on past decisions. Life After Theft is also an addicting novel, since Jeff and Kimberlee are always right on the verge of getting caught in the act. The close calls are cringe-worthy, but we can't look away. We absolutely need to know more. The storyline is slightly predictable, but not so much that we aren't surprised occasionally by a revelation, or two. The characters all give life to the story as their secrets and pasts come to light. Basically, Life After Theft is a book that warns you against judging others by their outward appearances. Which brings me to the dominant theme in this novel: redemption. Jeff is the kind of guy who believes that everyone has a bit of good in them, so it is only natural that Jeff is the personification of redemption. He not only tries to save Kimberlee, but he unknowingly tries to save others around him. Redemption is what moves Pike's novel; without it, the story would fall flat. The conclusion, however, is a little abrupt. Especially the concluding sentence--it is jarring, like Pike just wants it to end. It all also feels a little too...obvious at the end--everything is spelled out for you. No magic; no "wow" moment. The story leading up to the conclusion is eventful and touching, but I couldn't help but feel disconnected from the conclusion. I recommend Life After Theft to readers of contemporary literature with a light paranormal touch. If you like stories that have ghostly encounters and witty dialogue, then you'll like this one. Pike challenges her characters to give themselves more credit, and to face their demons.(less) | Notes are private!
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1
| Mar 23, 2013
| Mar 24, 2013
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Feb 02, 2013
| Kindle Edition
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| B009J6SK8U
| unknown
| 4.09
| 22
| Oct 10, 2012
| Oct 12, 2012
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review Wander Home by Karen A. Wyle is a...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review Wander Home by Karen A. Wyle is a literary novel with an interesting setting: a unique interpretation of what the afterlife may look like. Wyle's novel is mysterious and complex. Laced with romance, familial love, and a mystery that forces us to question our beliefs of what comes after death, Wander Home is a very thought-provoking read. Eleanor, the protagonist, is a woman we meet only after encountering the other minor, but not one-dimensional, characters. Her fear of the unknown is understandable, especially when her life, or afterlife, is finally starting to make sense. Her relationship with her daughter, Cassidy, is sweet and though Cassidy can assume any age she wants, it is refreshing to see the innocent love she harbors for the mother that left her when she was a young child. Wyle's world is exquisite and unique. The descriptions of places visited are delicately described, like the reader is taking in what the characters are seeing as if s/he were actually there viewing it all. Wyle does not miss any chances to describe the beauty of what she's dubbed as her version of the afterlife. The prose is nearly lyrical as characters shift from one place to another. Though at times either too complex to follow, or predictable, the storyline is a nicely paced construction of character growth, mystery, and a blooming romance. Rather than give the reader all of the details at once, Wyle makes the reader work for the answers by dropping hints here and there. I will admit, however, that though Wyle's world is incredibly imaginative, it is also limited. I often had questions regarding the rules of this world the characters inhabited--most regarding one-dimensional characters. Wyle's novel is a fresh twist on the afterlife. Her characters, and she's got many, share the story as the omniscient narrator details what each character is experiencing in this new world. I liked the omniscient feel of the novel because it gave me less reasons to ask questions regarding some of the characters. I recommend this novel to readers of adult fiction, but also to young adult readers 14+, due to some adult themes--but nothing too severe. If you're a reader who enjoys stories of the afterlife, unique romance, redemption, and familial ties, then I recommend this book for you. (less) | Notes are private!
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1
| Feb 2013
| Feb 03, 2013
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Feb 01, 2013
| Kindle Edition
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| 0545429609
| 9780545429603
| 3.56
| 605
| Mar 01, 2011
| Nov 01, 2012
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Not what I was expecting, but definitely a cute (and funny) read!
| Notes are private!
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1
| Apr 17, 2013
| Apr 20, 2013
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Jan 23, 2013
| Hardcover
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| 1596437219
| 9781596437210
| 3.93
| 67
| Mar 19, 2013
| Mar 19, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review Hannah Moskowitz's Marco Impossible...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review Hannah Moskowitz's Marco Impossible is a middle grade novel that follows the adventures of young detectives Stephen and Marco during their last few days before their grade eight graduation. The great "heist", as the two boys nickname it, begins with Marco's need to tell his crush, Benji, that he loves him. But as the time for the great revelation approaches, the boys are faced with complications, previously ignored issues in their friendship, and the difficulties of being a young gay boy. Moskowitz's novel is an important read because it teaches its younger readers about self worth, standing up against bullies, the importance of honesty, the power of friendship, and how to be yourself. While Marco is definitely confident, it is what he does not admit to that makes his story all the more powerful. Stephen is the narrator, but he places Marco on a pedestal, making the story feel more like a retelling of Marco's influence on Stephen's life. The narrative is consistent and reflects Stephen's afflicted emotions and passive exterior. His inner dialogue portrays a young man trying to not just understand his place in his best friend's life, but in his own world. Marco Impossible is extremely well written. The prose is sharp, at times witty, and incredibly captivating. The character growth is realistic as characters face the hardships of growing up and accepting what comes to fruition. Moskowitz laces her storytelling with fun details like the detective notebook Stephen carries with him, or the mystery of a missing sock--for example. But the heart of the novel is the bigotry found in this book for younger readers. The way that Moskowitz handles the abuse Marco and Stephen, by association, receive isn't as raw as in books for older audiences, but it is hinted at. The reader simply knows that the abuse is not okay because of how Moskowitz alludes to the events. The bullying, the lewd comments, and the physical abuse are not too intense that it would scar a child, but are powerful and very important as themes. I was not expecting Marco Impossible to be so memorable. The premise sounded cutesy and like a light read. Be warned, this story is not a light read. Family and social issues sprinkle the pages, making Moskowitz novel a near in-depth analysis of young teenaged boys and their friendships and associations. While Moskowitz explores adult concepts in Marco Impossible, she also retains the usual concerns that younger readers may experience. Her characters are learning to become who s/he is meant to be, what matters in life, and the hardships of first love. But most importantly, like many young readers, Moskowitz forces her characters to ask, "What will happen now?" once the adventures conclude and real life sets in, "What will happen when I graduate and go to the next phase of my life?" I recommend Marco Impossible to readers of middle grade novels, and books that have meaningful messages intertwined with a seemingly light storyline. Romance, mystery, family, and friendship are all major players in Moskowitz's novel and if you're a fan of those genres, then you should definitely check this one out.(less) | Notes are private!
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1
| Feb 23, 2013
| Feb 24, 2013
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Jan 17, 2013
| Hardcover
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| 9781443415088
| 3.56
| 1,096
| Sep 01, 2012
| Oct 15, 2012
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 Zom-B by Darren Shan is not the kind of book I anticipated it to be. In fact, it deals more with the...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 Zom-B by Darren Shan is not the kind of book I anticipated it to be. In fact, it deals more with the cruel reality of racism, abuse, and dysfunctional youth, than zombies. I personally love a good zombie novel now and again, but this one left me wondering when the zombie snacking would begin. One cool aspect, however, was Shan's ability to make the protagonist an androgynous character and keep it a mystery until the very end. For a long time I wanted SOMETHING to happen. I kept expecting the zombies to barge into the storyline, teeth chomping away at the characters and stomachs growling for a slice of brain, but when does this happen? About three quarters of the way into the novel. And okay, the prologue and pictures were pretty awesome, but the story just fell a little short for me. Granted, Zom-B is the first book in a series, so I can sort of understand Shan's careful pace for his zombie series. The writing, despite the pacing, was good. It gave me an insight into B's world and how s/he interacts with everything around him/her. It was fun catching a glimpse of the dialect and his/her way of life. Shan's talent at making the reader feel like s/he is beside B was what made his book interesting. He is also has the odd talent of making the most mundane things (like babies) appear absolutely terrifying. Basically, Shan's book is wonderfully written and a disturbingly honest representation of racism and abuse in countries that appear to be accepting more and more multiculturalism, but it is slow going and may make the reader a teeny bit impatient--especially if s/he is a zombie enthusiast. I would recommend Zom-B to readers of horror fiction that have tough protagonists and unexpected conclusions. I would advice, however, to be patient. I, for one, am hoping that the second installment makes up for Zom-B's lackluster premise. By the way, when the zombie action picks up it really picks up. The gore that the previous chapters missed out on are splattered on the last few chapters for the reader's twisted enjoyment.(less) | Notes are private!
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1
| Jan 12, 2013
| Jan 14, 2013
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Jan 12, 2013
| Hardcover
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| 0345531701
| 9780345531704
| 3.90
| 606
| Apr 02, 2013
| Apr 02, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: my link text I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review Shana Abé's The Sweetest Dark is a hist...more Review first appeared on my blog: my link text I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review Shana Abé's The Sweetest Dark is a historical and paranormal young adult novel that follows an orphaned teenage girl during World War One. With the war highlighting the mysterious events happening at her new school, Iverson, located in a gothic castle, the reader will learn about the trials of a poor student finding herself in a world that tells her to be otherwise, and how magic can change everything. Lora, the protagonist, is a feisty young girl with an unknown past. Besides being found and sent to the orphanage at a young age, she has no recollection of the events beforehand. Haunted by the musical callings of stones and metals around her, plus gifted with an unusual appearance, Lora is a mystery from the get-go. I'm not a huge historical fiction reader and I've found that paranormal romances have started to become more and more alike--witches, vampires, zombies, werewolves--so I was more than a little apprehensive when I started The Sweetest Dark. Thankfully, it was an enjoyable read with a hefty amount of originality. The beginning, though interesting because of Lora's uniqueness, was a little drawn out and I often found my attention drifting. I was already intrigued by the first few paragraphs, but I kind of wanted the pacing to go a little faster. I know gothic romance novels tend to focus on the minute details of the protagonist's life, but this felt more paranormal than gothic--so I grew impatient. The writing, however, was beautiful and antiquated, which went great with the tone and year of the setting. The setting is dark and ominous, but the tone is rigid and respectful, like what is expected of Lora. Which brings me to a point that has always irked me about historical novels, and other novels featuring women who dare belittle themselves to make male characters "want" them: the sexism of the time. I know, it's inevitable. Considering that The Sweetest Dark is set in 1915, Abé is accurate in her portrayal of women at the time, but it still makes me angry to see it so blatantly clear that women had close to no power. What helped ease my annoyance was Lora and her stubborn attitude. She stood up for herself, if not verbally, but mentally, whereas others merely agreed with what they were told, or simply looked down on Lora for having a smart mouth. Okay, moving on from that particular pet peeve. The romantic aspect of The Sweetest Dark was nearly perfect. At the time the novel is set, the romance is scandalizing enough to make Lora and her lover want to meet in the shadows of the castle, which made it so much better. The slowly growing feelings between Lora and her love interest are sweet, tender, promising, and powerful. You can't help but hope for the best when it comes to their relationship. The most surprising part of Abé's novel is the twist she throws at you. You're expecting the obvious answers; the most cliched and predictable turn. But no. Abé knows what she's doing when it comes to surprises and I will not ruin it for you--just keep in mind that not everything is as it seems. Besides my conflicting views on how the women are treated in this novel, another negative is the redundant descriptions of Lora's world. Abé tends to repeat the same descriptions in the beginning, middle, and conclusion of The Sweetest Dark, and I couldn't help but disconnect from the story to wonder why she needed to explain yet again why the night was that one particular color. Though the narrative is in first person when we are looking through Lora's eyes, the chapters do occasionally alternate from one character to another (the narrative is in third person when trained on someone else other than Lora). Whereas I've seen this technique before (i.e. The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting), it was a little confusing having more than two narratives running through the novel. Two I can handle, but three starts to feel a little crowded. Abé's novel is full of spunk, rule breaking, sweet romance, and unexpected magic. The Sweetest Dark will charm readers with its eloquent prose and gothic setting. I recommend this one to young adult readers who love historical romance fiction with a large serving of the supernatural. If you're sick of vampires, witches, werewolves, and zombies, then you might want to give this one a look-see. As long as you're not as squeamish as me when it comes to sexism in our history, then you'll enjoy Abé's novel.(less) | Notes are private!
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1
| Mar 16, 2013
| Mar 23, 2013
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Jan 07, 2013
| Hardcover
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| 1449971377
| 9781449971373
| 3.86
| 22
| Sep 22, 2010
| Nov 22, 2012
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy in exchange for an honest review Robyn Wyrick's Eviction Notice is a science fictio...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy in exchange for an honest review Robyn Wyrick's Eviction Notice is a science fiction novel ripe with adventure, witty dialogue, and a stellar fictional world. Of all the marvels found in the pages of Wyrick's novel, it is the protagonist's chance at redemption that brings light to the at times dark tone. Imaginative, thought-provoking, and to-the-point, Eviction Notice is one of those sci-fi novels that is an approachable and quick read. One of the interesting aspects of Eviction Notice is how straightforward Wyrick's writing is. I'm all for metaphorical writing because it makes the meaning of a novel pop, but every once in a while it is nice to read a book that simply tells the story. A novel that adopts less metaphorical prose should tread carefully, however, since too much can make the book a tiresome read. Of course, this does go back to the whole "show, don't tell" aspect of writing. But Wyrick's writing works well with his story. Wyrick has such grace in introducing quotable lines that the issue of telling, rather than showing, gets put to the side. One of my favorite quotes is, "She said memory was folded like paper into everything in the universe. A vast origami folding and refolding, and that every new event leaves a crease that remains forever" (Wyrick 243). The quote mentioned is gorgeous and it hits the reader unexpectedly, making him/her rethink how s/he views the world. Similar quotes are interlaced in the prose, like small presents left for the reader to encounter. The protagonist, Alice, is a depressed woman that is about to give up her spot in life because of the negative outcome of her marriage. Ironically enough, the task of saving the world is in her hands, and I can't help but find it empowering to give a seemingly lost character a chance to find her path again. I also like the pedestal point of view that Wyrick adopts. Not only is it original, but it gives the novel an omniscient feel without being a third person narrative. The pacing is quick and addicting. Though it is tougher to get into Eviction Notice at the beginning of the novel, the story quickly picks up and pulls the reader in. S/he is then taken on a quirky, comical, and at times philosophical adventure. I wasn't sure about Eviction Notice at first, but after the storyline picked up, I knew I was a goner for the characters and the thrill ride full of aliens, spaceships, and naive humans. The conclusion is brilliant as it destroys what plagues our current society, and the characters' experience mirrors what we are fighting for everyday (without aliens), which is the salvation of Earth. I recommend Eviction Notice to lovers of science fiction and witty narrative. Also, to readers who enjoy a touch of romance that does not overtake the storyline. (less) | Notes are private!
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| Jan 06, 2013
| Feb 2013
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Jan 06, 2013
| ebook
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| 1558611584
| 9781558611580
| 4.09
| 14,492
| 1890
| Sep 01, 1996
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None
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1
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| not set
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Jan 04, 2013
| Paperback
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| 0373210698
| 9780373210695
| 4.44
| 2,172
| Apr 30, 2013
| Apr 30, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review Julie Kagawa's The Eternity Cure wa...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review Julie Kagawa's The Eternity Cure was one of my most anticipated reads of 2013, especially since the first in the Blood of Eden series, The Immortal Rules, is one of my favorite books from my 2012 reading list. Allison, the protagonist, is introduced as a vampire on a mission. Her character continues to grow as she fights her way through terrifying hordes of the undead, faces her past in more ways than one, and is forced to confront the reality of her immortality. The greatest downfall of this anticipated novel is the pacing in the first third of the novel. It felt sluggish and I will admit that I had to adapt to Allison's world yet again. But once I got over the slow uphill climb to the rising action, the story quickly picks up and I remembered why The Immortal Rules was so addicting. The concept is pretty neat and original. The "Red Lung" disease in itself is fascinating because of how creepy it makes the victims act. But that's only one of the reasons why the concept is original. One of the things I've always admired about The Immortal Rules is how Kagawa can reach multiple goals within the storyline, yet the reader wants to keep going--and she happily obliges, giving us adventure, after adventure within one novel. There are so many things going on that it seems every chapter is action-packed, if not emotionally-packed. I guess this is mainly thanks to Allison's growth as a character (i.e. See reference in first book to where her maker tells her that she controls what kind of monster she wants to become). In The Eternity Cure, there is more focus on Allison, rather than everyone else around her. I understand that the first book explored temptation and the limits behind control, but this installment challenges Allison's acceptance of who she's become and how to maintain it, which promises to be an interesting issue in the rest of the series. Let's just say that the ending of this one (WOW!!!) definitely promises to be life-altering for Allison. The Eternity Cure does suffer from predictability, but Kagawa does the best she can with what she has. Though we know what's going to happen, or at least what we think will happen, Kagawa still lures us in with great internal struggles and thought-provoking prose. Despite the predictability factor, Kagawa sure knows how to present a heck of a cliffhanger...various times. Various Times. (Hint: You'll be picking up your jaw from the floor a few times). The romance is fantastic and a little coquettish on the male love interest's part, which is very cute and sweet compared to the tone of the novel. The romance is definitely the light in the darkened world Allison inhabits. But that's all I'm going to say. I WILL NOT RUIN THIS FOR YOU. Was this a fantastic sequel? It wasn't fantastic, but it was entertaining and still leaves a lot for the future. Unanswered questions run rampant by the conclusion, but that's what makes this series a must-read. I will admit I originally placed a huge amount of expectations on The Eternity Cure, but I will still say that The Immortal Rules is still my favorite installment in the series. I recommend the Blood of Eden series to lovers of the vampire genre...not the sparkly kind, but the violent, bloody, and female vampire point-of-view kind. Allison is a tough young woman finding her place in a world built up on death and destruction. Kagawa's female protagonist is a growing character who promises surprises in the future installments. Plus, she's a much needed powerful female character in a male-dominated genre.(less) | Notes are private!
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1
| Mar 23, 2013
| Mar 28, 2013
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Jan 04, 2013
| Hardcover
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| 1408834847
| 9781408834848
| 3.64
| 892
| Feb 05, 2013
| Feb 14, 2013
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Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy in exchange for an honest review Hysteria by Megan Miranda is a story driven by mad...more Review first appeared on my blog: Book Addict 24-7 I received a copy in exchange for an honest review Hysteria by Megan Miranda is a story driven by madness and guilt. The narrative interweaves memories with the present, which helps the reader connect both with the old Mallory, the protagonist, and with the new, broken Mallory. Very spooky moments occur within the pages of Miranda's novel, bringing to light the curious and mysterious nature of boarding school. Let me start off by saying that I feel really, really bad for Mallory. I feel bad because the things she has to deal and live with I do not wish on anyone, and though her life sucks, I feel like the drama of the novel is necessary to keep the reader's attention. Since Miranda's writing is drenched with drama, I found each new chapter unpredictable. The paranormal aspect of the novel isn't all that it seems, but what I like is how the echoes of Mallory's experience stays with the reader as the story progresses. Just like Mallory, the reader hears the awful sounds, and feels the terrifying touch of memories forgotten. Miranda is gifted with the ability to create a spooky tone that makes the reader turn the page with just a touch of fearful dread. The pacing is a bit slower than what I would anticipate for a novel of this calibre. The rising action takes up a good chunk of the novel, before finally reaching the heart of Mallory's issues. That's not to say that the story isn't a quick read, it is just a slow starter. The mystery behind Mallory's murderous past is intriguing because she doesn't outright say what happened the night that changed her life forever. Instead, she skirts around the parts she does not remember, giving the reader the idea that something is missing--that the story is incomplete. In some instances, this was a great approach to the mystery, but at other times I wanted to yell because I just wanted to know the answers to the very questions Mallory asks of herself. The setting is awesome. I'm not going to lie, I'm a sucker for novels set in boarding schools. I would say that I love boarding schools because of the mystery and the idea that the novel will revolve around characters that are not only away from their comfort zones, but left to fend for themselves among relative strangers. Hysteria would have been completely different if it was set in a public school, simply because the monotony of going home every day after the events at school would ease the fear within the novel. Overall, Hysteria is a great, creepy read that had me connecting with Mallory. Her story shows how cruel society can be and how powerful our choices are. Mallory's experiences also hint at how debilitating memories--forgotten, or remembered--can be. I recommend Hysteria to lovers of boarding school Y/A mystery novels. If you like complex romance, then you might like this one as well. Miranda's novel is a heart racing read that will surely be devoured by future readers.(less) | Notes are private!
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| not set
| Jan 06, 2013
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Jan 04, 2013
| Paperback
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