Zoe Adams's Blog, page 3
January 21, 2016
Half Bad - A Review
To all who are reading this,
Today, I introduce you to Half Bad by Sally Green, the first book in The Half Bad trilogy. Published in 2014, this is a fantasy novel, aimed at young adults. Compared and likened to Rowling's infamous Harry Potter series, it was awarded a Guinness World Record as 'The Most Translated Book By a Debut Author, Pre-publication'. So, what did I think?
There may be spoilers.
BlurbWanted by no one. Hunted by everyone.
Sixteen-year-old Nathan lives in a cage: beaten, shackled, trained to kill. In a modern-day England where two warring factions of witches live amongst humans, Nathan is an abomination, the illegitimate son of the world's most terrifying and violent witch, Marcus. Nathan's only hope for survival is to escape his captors, track down Marcus, and receive the three gifts that will bring him into his own magical powers - before it's too late. But how can Nathan find his father when there is no one safe to trust, not even family, not even the girl he loves?
A gripping tale of alienation and the indomitable will to survive.
I picked this up from my local library after hearing multiple thoughts on Facebook, Twitter, Instragram and YouTube. Finding book one was a stroke of luck, and I carried it home. I waited until the moment was right and picked it up, plunging myself into a new, but familiar world.
The cover is strange. 'Half' and 'Bad' are on opposing sides of the book, in different colours to differentiate how two sides of a person, make a whole - or in this case, makes the full title. Blood trails down a black background, but forms the outline of a teenage boy's face - Nathan. He looks dangerous and wild. Turning the book around, to where the blurb normally is (the one above came from Goodreads) has the title again, but in the opposite colours. The blood trails across a white background, showing how vulnerable he truly is.
The novel follows Nathan, bound in a cage, telling his story, about how and why he came to be in this predicament, until his escape. The youngest of the family, Nathan's father is not around and his mother is dead. He is raised by his grandmother, along with his siblings: Jessica, Deborah and Arran. From the outset, we know we are in a paranormal world and in this case, it's witches. White Witches vs. Black Witches - their offspring known as Half Codes. Nathan has grown up being told about his deadly father, and this probably doesn't help his state of mind. Always on edge, with new decrees coming out from the Council, restricting his way of life, Nathan finds living more of a challenge than most normal teenagers, with it only getting stranger.
The Black side of Nathan intrigues me much more than his White side. He is constantly on edge, scared of how he is going to turn out when it comes to his own Giving Day - a day when a witch comes into his/her true powers. There's no magic words, spell-books or wands. It's just power. Nathan asks his family their opinions, and they reserve judgment, apart from Jessica, who seems a horrible person. Annalise, a young White Witch, cares for him, and the two grow a close bond, but this ultimately leads to trouble.
The world seems no more different than the England that we know already, with the exception of the appearance of Witches. Nathan travels around the country, preferring to spend his time in the outdoors, and Wales - a place where he can seemingly be himself - an artistic young man.
There isn't much of a romance element in place, besides from his attraction to Annalise. He does make friends with a young man named Gabriel though, and as the book ends, Nathan is full of determination to get his friend back from wherever he now is. Could it be that Nathan is gay? I, for one, would be excited to see that romance come to a head, but I think I'm counting my chickens.
Sadly, I didn't feel that the magic element was there. It seemed to come in dribs and drabs, sinking through, and when Marcus finally comes into play, it is a very brief scene. There's certainly power plays in the book, but it seems more like an urban thriller than fantasy to me.
I have mixed feelings about this book. Things can progress from the end of the and perhaps there will be more magic aplenty. Characters can have the room to grow, and then so can relationships. What will happen in Nathan's world next? I'm not sure!
The series continues with Half Wild (2015). Half Lost releases 31 March 2016. Half Lies (2014) is a short story, following the characters, Michele and Gabriel.
You can find Sally Green on the Internet in the following places:
Tumblr
Website
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Blood Harvest by S. J. Bolton
Wither - A Review
To all who are reading this,
Today, I introduce you to Wither by Lauren DeStefano, the first book in The Chemical Garden trilogy. Published in 2011, this is a dystopian novel, aimed at young adults. With thriller elements and romantic undertones, it has been described as "gripping" and "breathtaking". So, was it for me?
There may be spoilers.
Blurb
Rhine Ellery is 16 and she only has four years left to live.
A botched attempt to create the perfect human race means that men die at 25, and women die at 20. Young girls are being abducted and forced into polygamous marriages in a desperate bid to keep humanity ahead of the disease that threatens to eradicate it.
When Rhine is kidnapped, she is sold as a bride to Linden, a rich young man with a dying wife. Even though he is kind to her, Rhine is desperate to escape her gilded cage - and Linden's cruel father. With the help of Gabriel, a servant she is growing dangerously attracted to, Rhine attempts to break free, in what little time she has left.
I picked this up from my local library and was instantly struck by the cover. On reading the blurb, I knew that I should be reading this. The fact that it stated it was the first book, made me even happier. Nothing is more disappointing than finding a good book, and it turns out, is the third in a series.
The cover shows a young woman, tousled and made up to look beautiful, with a wedding ring on her finger - but her face holds all the sadness of the world. She wears an elegant dress in pale tones - is it that she is withering away to nothing? To her side, is a songbird trapped in a cage - a metaphor for what is happening to Rhine, our lead character. The silver writing of the title, author and tagline stands out amongst the darkness of the purple, and the geometric lines gives us a hint to later characters and plots.
The novel follows the kidnap and the newly enriched life of teenager, Rhine. Orphaned and separated from her twin brother and Manhattan, the city she grew up in, Rhine is escorted to a fine mansion in Florida, owned by the Ashby family. She is there a mere few days, before she finds herself as wife to Linden Ashby, a kind, gentle designer, who is in love with Rose, his dying wife. Rhine has allies in Jenna, an older willowy bride, and Cecily, a much younger, excitable bride. Together, the three become sister wives, with Rose at her death bed. Never far away from Rhine is the thought of escape, and a young house servant, Gabriel. Rhine and Gabriel talk, and slowly, but surely, an attraction grows between them - most unlike the relationship between Rhine and Linden.
Rhine is determined to run away from this new life of hers, but to get close, she has to play her part. And she does this well - she's a fleshed out character, and is in complete contrast to her other sister wives. Jenna reads romance novels to escape the mundane and isn't bothered about catching the eye of her husband, whereas talented musician Cecily dreams of babies and an adoring man by her side.
Linden is a sweet, gentleman, who is besotted with Rose. He has been in love with her since childhood, and finds carrying on with life a little difficult, until he meets Rhine, with her blonde hair - like his Rose's. Linden's father, Housemaster Vaughan, is a man of scientific means, and is convinced that he is able to find the cure to the disease, no matter what he has to do.
The dystopian futuristic elements have a very scientific feel to them. Hologram walls and games, swimming pools with virtual scene structures and bright fishes galore. Money seems to be no object, especially with the mansion in Florida. There is everything there - stables, swimming pools, groves of flowers and fruits, a miniature golf course, libraries - but no freedom.
Being the perfect human might sound great to some, but it is our personalities, our minds, hell, even an illness that can bring out the best of a person. The scientists were trying to eradicate cancer, and of course, things begin to backfire, causing perfect people to die at 25 or 20, depending on the gender.
The romance aspect was a tad predictable, but it was well written. We don't know too much about Gabriel, but he is always on the lookout to help Rhine, giving her sweets and giving her a motive to move - telling her what she is named after in geographical terms. I think the marriages seem very much like the old traditions of China, where an Emperor had his Empress, and his other many wives were Concubines.
The library copy also contained a preview of the sequel, and also a short story, giving us background on Rose and Linden's relationship, entitled The First Bride.
I really enjoyed this book. I think there's definite room to expand upon the world and characters. The most important question is - will people continue to die? Will Rhine make it past 20? Time will tell.
The series continues with Fever (2012) and Sever (2013).
You can find Lauren DeStefano on the Internet in the following places:
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Website
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Son of No One by Sherrilyn Kenyon
Today, I introduce you to Wither by Lauren DeStefano, the first book in The Chemical Garden trilogy. Published in 2011, this is a dystopian novel, aimed at young adults. With thriller elements and romantic undertones, it has been described as "gripping" and "breathtaking". So, was it for me?
There may be spoilers.
Blurb
Rhine Ellery is 16 and she only has four years left to live.
A botched attempt to create the perfect human race means that men die at 25, and women die at 20. Young girls are being abducted and forced into polygamous marriages in a desperate bid to keep humanity ahead of the disease that threatens to eradicate it.
When Rhine is kidnapped, she is sold as a bride to Linden, a rich young man with a dying wife. Even though he is kind to her, Rhine is desperate to escape her gilded cage - and Linden's cruel father. With the help of Gabriel, a servant she is growing dangerously attracted to, Rhine attempts to break free, in what little time she has left.
I picked this up from my local library and was instantly struck by the cover. On reading the blurb, I knew that I should be reading this. The fact that it stated it was the first book, made me even happier. Nothing is more disappointing than finding a good book, and it turns out, is the third in a series.
The cover shows a young woman, tousled and made up to look beautiful, with a wedding ring on her finger - but her face holds all the sadness of the world. She wears an elegant dress in pale tones - is it that she is withering away to nothing? To her side, is a songbird trapped in a cage - a metaphor for what is happening to Rhine, our lead character. The silver writing of the title, author and tagline stands out amongst the darkness of the purple, and the geometric lines gives us a hint to later characters and plots.
The novel follows the kidnap and the newly enriched life of teenager, Rhine. Orphaned and separated from her twin brother and Manhattan, the city she grew up in, Rhine is escorted to a fine mansion in Florida, owned by the Ashby family. She is there a mere few days, before she finds herself as wife to Linden Ashby, a kind, gentle designer, who is in love with Rose, his dying wife. Rhine has allies in Jenna, an older willowy bride, and Cecily, a much younger, excitable bride. Together, the three become sister wives, with Rose at her death bed. Never far away from Rhine is the thought of escape, and a young house servant, Gabriel. Rhine and Gabriel talk, and slowly, but surely, an attraction grows between them - most unlike the relationship between Rhine and Linden.
Rhine is determined to run away from this new life of hers, but to get close, she has to play her part. And she does this well - she's a fleshed out character, and is in complete contrast to her other sister wives. Jenna reads romance novels to escape the mundane and isn't bothered about catching the eye of her husband, whereas talented musician Cecily dreams of babies and an adoring man by her side.
Linden is a sweet, gentleman, who is besotted with Rose. He has been in love with her since childhood, and finds carrying on with life a little difficult, until he meets Rhine, with her blonde hair - like his Rose's. Linden's father, Housemaster Vaughan, is a man of scientific means, and is convinced that he is able to find the cure to the disease, no matter what he has to do.
The dystopian futuristic elements have a very scientific feel to them. Hologram walls and games, swimming pools with virtual scene structures and bright fishes galore. Money seems to be no object, especially with the mansion in Florida. There is everything there - stables, swimming pools, groves of flowers and fruits, a miniature golf course, libraries - but no freedom.
Being the perfect human might sound great to some, but it is our personalities, our minds, hell, even an illness that can bring out the best of a person. The scientists were trying to eradicate cancer, and of course, things begin to backfire, causing perfect people to die at 25 or 20, depending on the gender.
The romance aspect was a tad predictable, but it was well written. We don't know too much about Gabriel, but he is always on the lookout to help Rhine, giving her sweets and giving her a motive to move - telling her what she is named after in geographical terms. I think the marriages seem very much like the old traditions of China, where an Emperor had his Empress, and his other many wives were Concubines.
The library copy also contained a preview of the sequel, and also a short story, giving us background on Rose and Linden's relationship, entitled The First Bride.
I really enjoyed this book. I think there's definite room to expand upon the world and characters. The most important question is - will people continue to die? Will Rhine make it past 20? Time will tell.
The series continues with Fever (2012) and Sever (2013).
You can find Lauren DeStefano on the Internet in the following places:
Website
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Son of No One by Sherrilyn Kenyon
January 20, 2016
Totally Should've Book Tag
To all who are reading this,
I spotted this tag on Kat O'Keeffe's YouTube account. Kat is a book blogger and she is so honest and funny. It's thanks to her, that I've come across some great new reads for my To-Be-Read list!
When I spotted the tag, I thought it was a pretty cool little idea, and it was something to certainly get my brain thinking!
1. Totally should've gotten a sequel
I would love a sequel to A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Heaven, or How I Made Peace with the Paranormal and Stigmatized Zealots and Cynics in the Process by Corey Taylor. And yes, that's the books full title! Frontman of Slipknot and Stone Sour, Corey Taylor reveals his paranormal experiences that have happened across his life. I love this kind of thing, and I'm interested in all things supernatural, so I'm all for hearing more about people's experiences.
2. Totally should've had a spin off series
I'm going to be really original here, but I'd love to know about the days of the Marauder's, or the adventures of the latest generation of witches and wizards. You only get little flashes in the published books, or you have to scout around fan-fiction sites, which I haven't done in years. Surely, I've given it away now? Yes, I'd love more of the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling.
3. An author who totally should write more books
We're going to the realm of indie authors now! I just love Trixie Taylor, who writes romance and erotica. She has an eye for well-thought out characters and details, and the plots just work so well for what she wants to achieve. I'm eagerly awaiting more in the Seasons in Spitfyre series!
4. A character who totally should've ended up with someone else
Maybe controversial here, but as much as I love the mystery behind the pairing, I would have loved to see Freida and Isabel overtly be together in a romantic relationship in Only Ever Yours by Louise O'Neill. I actually reviewed the book here, and you can see all my thoughts there. I don't want to say too much about it, as I explained it better before.
5. Totally should've ended differently
Allegiant by Veronica Roth. Allegiant is the final book in the Divergent trilogy, following Tris on a journey of true self-discovery set against the backgroup of a young adult dystopia. I just couldn't believe the ending, I just didn't want to believe it... I'm really anxious for when the film comes out in March 2016!
6. Totally should've had a movie franchise
The Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas, without a doubt! The series currently has four books and there are plans for more, which is awesome. The series is one of my favourites, ever. I would be reserving tickets for that film and its sequels straight away. Visually, it would be stunning, but ask me who would play the characters on the big screen, and I'd be completely puzzled! During the first book, Throne of Glass, Celaena's training would make a great montage scene!
7. Totally should've had a TV show
I think the Frieda Klein series by Nicci French would make a great show for ITV, in a two hour slot. Freida Klein is a psychotherapist and is drawn into helping solving crimes, whether she wants to or not. As I was reading the first book in the series, Blue Monday, I could see everything playing out in my head. I'd be putting a series link on that bad boy! And if I read all the books first, then I'd be able to say I know who did it, and be right.
[image error] 8. Totally should've had only one point of view
I've recently read and reviewed The 100 by Kass Morgan and I wasn't impressed with the book. I think if it was rewritten from maybe just one perspective - one person, in one hundred - it could stand out more, and things could move differently.
9. Totally should've a cover change
Some of the original covers of The Southern Vampire Mysteries by Charlaine Harris, are in my opinion, horrible. It doesn't have the same feel to what it would be trying to achieve. I'm glad that they started to change. The series is more known as True Blood so some of the books feature the actors faces on the front and they are the ones on my shelf, though I've seen other covers.
10. Totally should've kept the original covers
I'm one of those people who dislike film posters being used as cover art and in this, I really prefer the original covers to the Twilight series by Stephanie Meyer. I still own copies of the books because they still hold a few memories for me. When the film became a huge success, they re-released the books with the film art, and I wasn't happy with that. I felt like it was ruined, especially when the original cover was so simple and eye-catching.
11. Totally should've stopped at book one
This might sound unpopular but the House of Night series by P.C. and Kristin Cast. I went through most of the series and it was one of those that I could skim read in a day and take back to the library. I wasn't fully impressed - it had potential to continue greatly, but it got a little repetitive with each book, and was just full of product placement.
So guys, what books are on your "TOTALLY SHOULD'VE" list?
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Half Bad by Sally Green
I spotted this tag on Kat O'Keeffe's YouTube account. Kat is a book blogger and she is so honest and funny. It's thanks to her, that I've come across some great new reads for my To-Be-Read list!
When I spotted the tag, I thought it was a pretty cool little idea, and it was something to certainly get my brain thinking!
1. Totally should've gotten a sequel
I would love a sequel to A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Heaven, or How I Made Peace with the Paranormal and Stigmatized Zealots and Cynics in the Process by Corey Taylor. And yes, that's the books full title! Frontman of Slipknot and Stone Sour, Corey Taylor reveals his paranormal experiences that have happened across his life. I love this kind of thing, and I'm interested in all things supernatural, so I'm all for hearing more about people's experiences.2. Totally should've had a spin off series
I'm going to be really original here, but I'd love to know about the days of the Marauder's, or the adventures of the latest generation of witches and wizards. You only get little flashes in the published books, or you have to scout around fan-fiction sites, which I haven't done in years. Surely, I've given it away now? Yes, I'd love more of the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. 3. An author who totally should write more books
We're going to the realm of indie authors now! I just love Trixie Taylor, who writes romance and erotica. She has an eye for well-thought out characters and details, and the plots just work so well for what she wants to achieve. I'm eagerly awaiting more in the Seasons in Spitfyre series!
4. A character who totally should've ended up with someone else
Maybe controversial here, but as much as I love the mystery behind the pairing, I would have loved to see Freida and Isabel overtly be together in a romantic relationship in Only Ever Yours by Louise O'Neill. I actually reviewed the book here, and you can see all my thoughts there. I don't want to say too much about it, as I explained it better before.
5. Totally should've ended differently
Allegiant by Veronica Roth. Allegiant is the final book in the Divergent trilogy, following Tris on a journey of true self-discovery set against the backgroup of a young adult dystopia. I just couldn't believe the ending, I just didn't want to believe it... I'm really anxious for when the film comes out in March 2016!
6. Totally should've had a movie franchise The Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas, without a doubt! The series currently has four books and there are plans for more, which is awesome. The series is one of my favourites, ever. I would be reserving tickets for that film and its sequels straight away. Visually, it would be stunning, but ask me who would play the characters on the big screen, and I'd be completely puzzled! During the first book, Throne of Glass, Celaena's training would make a great montage scene!
7. Totally should've had a TV show
I think the Frieda Klein series by Nicci French would make a great show for ITV, in a two hour slot. Freida Klein is a psychotherapist and is drawn into helping solving crimes, whether she wants to or not. As I was reading the first book in the series, Blue Monday, I could see everything playing out in my head. I'd be putting a series link on that bad boy! And if I read all the books first, then I'd be able to say I know who did it, and be right.
[image error] 8. Totally should've had only one point of view
I've recently read and reviewed The 100 by Kass Morgan and I wasn't impressed with the book. I think if it was rewritten from maybe just one perspective - one person, in one hundred - it could stand out more, and things could move differently.
9. Totally should've a cover change Some of the original covers of The Southern Vampire Mysteries by Charlaine Harris, are in my opinion, horrible. It doesn't have the same feel to what it would be trying to achieve. I'm glad that they started to change. The series is more known as True Blood so some of the books feature the actors faces on the front and they are the ones on my shelf, though I've seen other covers.
10. Totally should've kept the original covers
I'm one of those people who dislike film posters being used as cover art and in this, I really prefer the original covers to the Twilight series by Stephanie Meyer. I still own copies of the books because they still hold a few memories for me. When the film became a huge success, they re-released the books with the film art, and I wasn't happy with that. I felt like it was ruined, especially when the original cover was so simple and eye-catching.11. Totally should've stopped at book one
This might sound unpopular but the House of Night series by P.C. and Kristin Cast. I went through most of the series and it was one of those that I could skim read in a day and take back to the library. I wasn't fully impressed - it had potential to continue greatly, but it got a little repetitive with each book, and was just full of product placement.So guys, what books are on your "TOTALLY SHOULD'VE" list?
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Half Bad by Sally Green
January 14, 2016
The 100 - A Review
To all who are reading this,
Today, I introduce you to The 100 by Kass Morgan, the first book in a trilogy of the same name. Published in 2013, this is a science fiction novel, aimed at young adults. Before the novel's release, it had already been tipped for television glory, and in 2014, the show premiered on The CW Network in the US and Canada, respectively, and on E4 in the UK to great success. Colour me intrigued...
There may be spoilers.
Blurb
No one has set foot on Earth in centuries - until now.
Ever since a devastating nuclear war, humanity has lived on spaceships far above Earth's radioactive surface. Now, one hundred juvenile delinquents - considered expendable by society - are being sent on a dangerous mission: to re-colonize the planet. It could be their second chance at life... or it could be a suicide mission.
CLARKE was arrested for treason, though she's haunted by the memory of what she really did. WELLS, the chancellor's son, came to Earth for the girl he loves - but will she ever forgive him? Reckless BELLAMY fought his way onto the transport pod to protect his sister, the other half of the only siblings in the universe. And GLASS managed to escape back onto the ship, only to find life there is just as dangerous as she feared it would be on Earth.
Confronted with a savage land and haunted by secrets from their pasts, the hundred must fight to survive. They were never meant to be heroes, but they may be mankind's last hope.
I picked this up from my local library and knew very little about it, besides that it was a television show. I had Googled this though, and knew that the books had come first. I decided to give it a chance as the blurb sounded intriguing, but by the end, I was disappointed.
The cover seems to depict the characters from the television show. Further evidence is the sticker stating, 'NOW A MAJOR TV SERIES ON E4'. I would have preferred an original cover, as even though this is simple and stands out, I personally am not a fan of television or film, or game covers on books. Personal taste, I guess. The font used is also the same used for the show.
The novel follows the lives of Clarke, Wells, Bellamy and Glass as their lives start to change around them - for better or for worse. News is made to them that one hundred juvenile convicts will be sent to Earth to see if it is safe to finally return. Each character has their own past and we see in their perspective, in the third person - Clarke was tried for treason after her parents were executed. Wells has a secret hidden away until the end of the novel, but he has an undying love for Clarke. Bellamy had kept his sister a secret and protected her from all on board the ship. Glass loved and lost, and continues to conceal from everyone her true secret.
The characters start interesting, but after a while, it gets a little dull reading about them, and I would have liked to have them interact more with the others who have been sent to Earth with them. I would have also liked to see them more fleshed out - maybe if the book wasn't a trilogy and quite small, we could have had more development of characters so that I could have liked them. And we could also have more description of how they came to be on spaceships and their history. For science-fiction, there isn't a lot of description of what the spaceships are like, and I found it hard to visualise how it would look like, and how things really work out there in space.
Down on Earth, there doesn't seem to be a concept of time, and I suppose we know what day they are on with book two's title. There isn't enough world building to know whereabouts we are. Bellamy turns into a hunter to help the others and his sister, but no one else seems to help. Everyone is quick to argue, there isn't teamwork, there isn't even a thought of, "Everyone work together until we know what the hell is really going on here." By the end, it is too late for that.
Maybe I need to watch the show.
Understandably, there is a romance edge to this, but I found one of these pairings to be annoying and unbelievable - who will Clarke choose? Wells or Bellamy? One of the men, I have a real issue with. Wells. He follows the brain in his pants just so he can see Clarke again, but that's all his actions seem to do - revolve around Clarke. It is not until the author reveals his secret at the end that we are surprised. And even then, he did it selfishly, because of what had happened to Clarke.
I was really disappointed. Not only didn't I get what the blurb promised, but I didn't like the characters, and the world building wasn't strong enough. We are told this is science-fiction, but goes into the realm of YA dystopia, with a little bit of survival in there. It wasn't enough for me, and I don't think I'll be returning to the series.
It just wasn't the book for me.
The series continues with Day 21 (2014) and ends with Homecoming (2015).
You can find Kass Morgan on the Internet in the following place:
Twitter
Learn more about The 100 here. Also search the hashtag at #The100book
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Wither by Lauren DeStefano
Today, I introduce you to The 100 by Kass Morgan, the first book in a trilogy of the same name. Published in 2013, this is a science fiction novel, aimed at young adults. Before the novel's release, it had already been tipped for television glory, and in 2014, the show premiered on The CW Network in the US and Canada, respectively, and on E4 in the UK to great success. Colour me intrigued...
There may be spoilers.
Blurb No one has set foot on Earth in centuries - until now.
Ever since a devastating nuclear war, humanity has lived on spaceships far above Earth's radioactive surface. Now, one hundred juvenile delinquents - considered expendable by society - are being sent on a dangerous mission: to re-colonize the planet. It could be their second chance at life... or it could be a suicide mission.
CLARKE was arrested for treason, though she's haunted by the memory of what she really did. WELLS, the chancellor's son, came to Earth for the girl he loves - but will she ever forgive him? Reckless BELLAMY fought his way onto the transport pod to protect his sister, the other half of the only siblings in the universe. And GLASS managed to escape back onto the ship, only to find life there is just as dangerous as she feared it would be on Earth.
Confronted with a savage land and haunted by secrets from their pasts, the hundred must fight to survive. They were never meant to be heroes, but they may be mankind's last hope.
I picked this up from my local library and knew very little about it, besides that it was a television show. I had Googled this though, and knew that the books had come first. I decided to give it a chance as the blurb sounded intriguing, but by the end, I was disappointed.
The cover seems to depict the characters from the television show. Further evidence is the sticker stating, 'NOW A MAJOR TV SERIES ON E4'. I would have preferred an original cover, as even though this is simple and stands out, I personally am not a fan of television or film, or game covers on books. Personal taste, I guess. The font used is also the same used for the show.
The novel follows the lives of Clarke, Wells, Bellamy and Glass as their lives start to change around them - for better or for worse. News is made to them that one hundred juvenile convicts will be sent to Earth to see if it is safe to finally return. Each character has their own past and we see in their perspective, in the third person - Clarke was tried for treason after her parents were executed. Wells has a secret hidden away until the end of the novel, but he has an undying love for Clarke. Bellamy had kept his sister a secret and protected her from all on board the ship. Glass loved and lost, and continues to conceal from everyone her true secret.
The characters start interesting, but after a while, it gets a little dull reading about them, and I would have liked to have them interact more with the others who have been sent to Earth with them. I would have also liked to see them more fleshed out - maybe if the book wasn't a trilogy and quite small, we could have had more development of characters so that I could have liked them. And we could also have more description of how they came to be on spaceships and their history. For science-fiction, there isn't a lot of description of what the spaceships are like, and I found it hard to visualise how it would look like, and how things really work out there in space.
Down on Earth, there doesn't seem to be a concept of time, and I suppose we know what day they are on with book two's title. There isn't enough world building to know whereabouts we are. Bellamy turns into a hunter to help the others and his sister, but no one else seems to help. Everyone is quick to argue, there isn't teamwork, there isn't even a thought of, "Everyone work together until we know what the hell is really going on here." By the end, it is too late for that.
Maybe I need to watch the show.
Understandably, there is a romance edge to this, but I found one of these pairings to be annoying and unbelievable - who will Clarke choose? Wells or Bellamy? One of the men, I have a real issue with. Wells. He follows the brain in his pants just so he can see Clarke again, but that's all his actions seem to do - revolve around Clarke. It is not until the author reveals his secret at the end that we are surprised. And even then, he did it selfishly, because of what had happened to Clarke.
I was really disappointed. Not only didn't I get what the blurb promised, but I didn't like the characters, and the world building wasn't strong enough. We are told this is science-fiction, but goes into the realm of YA dystopia, with a little bit of survival in there. It wasn't enough for me, and I don't think I'll be returning to the series. It just wasn't the book for me.
The series continues with Day 21 (2014) and ends with Homecoming (2015).
You can find Kass Morgan on the Internet in the following place:
Learn more about The 100 here. Also search the hashtag at #The100book
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Wither by Lauren DeStefano
January 13, 2016
Owning Mac Lipstick
To all who are reading this,
I feel like a real blogger now, and that's all down to the generosity of a good friend at Christmas. When asked what I wanted, I didn't really have a clue. And then, I thought about it properly.
I wanted a MAC lipstick.
I've seen nothing but good reviews from various bloggers on MAC products, but as shameful as it is, I don't know a great deal about them. I know that some of them can be pretty pricey, and I knew if I ever got one of those lipsticks, it would only be used for special occasions - as daft as that may seem to some. There's hundreds of colours and when looking, a girl is spoilt for choice. So when asked if there was a specific shade, I asked for the only colour I could think about when it comes to lipsticks.
Red.
I love a good red lipstick. At the moment, I'm using a cheap red that I bought from the market in my local shopping centre. It is incredibly bright and needs blotting before I can be seen in public without looking like a clown. It makes me feel really good about myself, though, and it's something that is always in whatever handbag I'm using at the time.
So when I opened a well wrapped present on Christmas Day and I found a MAC lipstick, I was thrilled. The colour at the end states that it was Lady Bug. When I had taken it out the box, it was a gorgeous colour, and for some reason, I smelt chocolate. I was really excited to try it out, but I needed the perfect time.
And what better time is a surprise party for your best friend?
Lady BugThe lipstick was easy to apply and didn't need blotting like my other. It fact, it offered little resistance and glided straight on. I will admit that I put two coats of it on, but that was to give it that extra va-va-voom factor. Even then, it was a lovely subtle red. I was pretty happy with it, and it lasted throughout the night. I found it didn't stain glasses or bottles when having a drink, and it had even stayed on when we ventured out into town for a few drinks.
Cheap and Trusty, however, does need blotting, but is bright without numerous coats. Like Lady Bug, it has little to no resistance, but it does stain anything it comes into contact with - cheeks, bottles, glasses, straws, napkins... And even then, it sometimes needs topping up when I'm out and about.
Needless to say though, the party was a huge success, and so was the lipstick! I will most definitely be wearing it again for going out. Maybe it's time to put Cheap and Trusty in the bin?
Lady Bug is a standard size lipstick and is priced at £15.50 online!
MAC Cosmetics are available from various stores at a range of prices. You can visit the website here: MAC Cosmetics
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: The Moth Catcher by Ann Cleeves
I feel like a real blogger now, and that's all down to the generosity of a good friend at Christmas. When asked what I wanted, I didn't really have a clue. And then, I thought about it properly.
I wanted a MAC lipstick.
I've seen nothing but good reviews from various bloggers on MAC products, but as shameful as it is, I don't know a great deal about them. I know that some of them can be pretty pricey, and I knew if I ever got one of those lipsticks, it would only be used for special occasions - as daft as that may seem to some. There's hundreds of colours and when looking, a girl is spoilt for choice. So when asked if there was a specific shade, I asked for the only colour I could think about when it comes to lipsticks. Red.
I love a good red lipstick. At the moment, I'm using a cheap red that I bought from the market in my local shopping centre. It is incredibly bright and needs blotting before I can be seen in public without looking like a clown. It makes me feel really good about myself, though, and it's something that is always in whatever handbag I'm using at the time.So when I opened a well wrapped present on Christmas Day and I found a MAC lipstick, I was thrilled. The colour at the end states that it was Lady Bug. When I had taken it out the box, it was a gorgeous colour, and for some reason, I smelt chocolate. I was really excited to try it out, but I needed the perfect time.
And what better time is a surprise party for your best friend?
Lady BugThe lipstick was easy to apply and didn't need blotting like my other. It fact, it offered little resistance and glided straight on. I will admit that I put two coats of it on, but that was to give it that extra va-va-voom factor. Even then, it was a lovely subtle red. I was pretty happy with it, and it lasted throughout the night. I found it didn't stain glasses or bottles when having a drink, and it had even stayed on when we ventured out into town for a few drinks. Cheap and Trusty, however, does need blotting, but is bright without numerous coats. Like Lady Bug, it has little to no resistance, but it does stain anything it comes into contact with - cheeks, bottles, glasses, straws, napkins... And even then, it sometimes needs topping up when I'm out and about.
Needless to say though, the party was a huge success, and so was the lipstick! I will most definitely be wearing it again for going out. Maybe it's time to put Cheap and Trusty in the bin?
Lady Bug is a standard size lipstick and is priced at £15.50 online!
MAC Cosmetics are available from various stores at a range of prices. You can visit the website here: MAC Cosmetics
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: The Moth Catcher by Ann Cleeves
January 8, 2016
The Bourbon Kings - A Review
To all who are reading this,
Today, I introduce you to The Bourbon Kings, the first book in The Bourbon Kings Saga by American author, J. R. Ward. Published in 2015, this is a contemporary romance aimed at the adult market. Ward is well known for her contemporary adult vampire series, The Black Dagger Brotherhood, and is a No. 1 New York Times bestseller, so this is a huge step away. But does it match up to her other series?
There may be spoilers.
Blurb
For generations, the Bradford family has worn the mantle of kings of the bourbon capital of the world. Their wealth has afforded them prestige and power - as well as a hard-won division of class on their sprawling estate, Easterly. Upstairs, a dynasty that by all appearances plays by the rules of good fortune and good taste. Downstairs, the staff who work tirelessly to maintain the impeccable Bradford façade. And never the twain shall meet.
For Lizzie King, Easterly's head gardener, crossing that divide nearly ruined her life. Falling in love with Tulane, the prodigal son of the bourbon dynasty, was nothing that she intended or wanted - and their bitter breakup only served to prove her instincts were right. Now, after two years of staying away, Tulane is finally coming home, bringing the past with him. No one will be left unmarked: not Tulane's beautiful and ruthless wife; not his older brother, whose bitterness and bad blood know no bounds; and especially not the ironfisted Bradford patriarch, a man with few morals, fewer scruples, and many, many terrible secrets.
As family tensions ignite, Easterly and all its inhabitants are thrown into the grips of an irrevocable transformation, and only the strongest will survive.
I've been a fan of Ward's since The Black Dagger Brotherhood series. She has a great writing style and she writes romance so well! So when I saw on her Facebook page that she was writing a contemporary romance set in Southern America, I was so excited! When I popped into my local library before Christmas and saw a copy on the shelf, I knew I couldn't let it go!
The cover has a real touch of class about it, with a splash of sepia, to give it that old class look. Looking really close though, its like we're looking through a glass of bourbon and ice, giving it that real connection to the title. We've also got a front view of Easterly and a handsome man in a suit - could this be Tulane? I certainly think so!
The novel follows Lizzie King and Tulane Baldwine as they come back into each others life following an illness on the Easterly estate. For Lizzie, she has pushed romance aside and buried herself in her work as head gardener, whereas Tulane holds up in New York, sleeping on a friends sofa and playing poker. And yet it isn't long before they meet at either end of the hallway, and Lizzie is fighting back her feelings for the man she once walked away from.
At the same time, other characters come into play, such as the eldest brother, Edward, scarred and lonely, and the only daughter, Gin, vivacious and wild. Each character is fleshed out and there is much more to them than what originally meets the eye.
Whilst Lizzie and Tulane struggle with their feelings, drama unfolds behind the scenes. What with engagements, divorces, deaths and pregnancies, it all seems to be revolving around money and the Bradford Bourbon Distillery.
With this being a contemporary romance, it can be believed that these kinds of family still throw their money around in places like Kentucky. It's certainly interesting to see the divide of wealth, with Lizzie driving her old Yaris, compared to the choice of cars that Tulane has at his disposal. The world building is great - simplistic, but the writing style keeps us engaged. We're so grounded in reality, compared to the wildness of the Cauldwell vampires, that it is quite refreshing.
There is honestly so much more that I could say about the book, but I don't want to spoil it too much for anyone. With it being the first book in the series, I'm excited to see the developments of characters, romances, and the twists that life will throw at this prestigious family.
The Bourbon Kings Saga continues in book two, The Angel's Share on 26 July 2016.
You can find J. R. Ward on the Internet in the following places:
Facebook
Twitter
Website
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: The 100 by Kass Morgan
Today, I introduce you to The Bourbon Kings, the first book in The Bourbon Kings Saga by American author, J. R. Ward. Published in 2015, this is a contemporary romance aimed at the adult market. Ward is well known for her contemporary adult vampire series, The Black Dagger Brotherhood, and is a No. 1 New York Times bestseller, so this is a huge step away. But does it match up to her other series?
There may be spoilers.
Blurb
For generations, the Bradford family has worn the mantle of kings of the bourbon capital of the world. Their wealth has afforded them prestige and power - as well as a hard-won division of class on their sprawling estate, Easterly. Upstairs, a dynasty that by all appearances plays by the rules of good fortune and good taste. Downstairs, the staff who work tirelessly to maintain the impeccable Bradford façade. And never the twain shall meet.For Lizzie King, Easterly's head gardener, crossing that divide nearly ruined her life. Falling in love with Tulane, the prodigal son of the bourbon dynasty, was nothing that she intended or wanted - and their bitter breakup only served to prove her instincts were right. Now, after two years of staying away, Tulane is finally coming home, bringing the past with him. No one will be left unmarked: not Tulane's beautiful and ruthless wife; not his older brother, whose bitterness and bad blood know no bounds; and especially not the ironfisted Bradford patriarch, a man with few morals, fewer scruples, and many, many terrible secrets.
As family tensions ignite, Easterly and all its inhabitants are thrown into the grips of an irrevocable transformation, and only the strongest will survive.
I've been a fan of Ward's since The Black Dagger Brotherhood series. She has a great writing style and she writes romance so well! So when I saw on her Facebook page that she was writing a contemporary romance set in Southern America, I was so excited! When I popped into my local library before Christmas and saw a copy on the shelf, I knew I couldn't let it go!
The cover has a real touch of class about it, with a splash of sepia, to give it that old class look. Looking really close though, its like we're looking through a glass of bourbon and ice, giving it that real connection to the title. We've also got a front view of Easterly and a handsome man in a suit - could this be Tulane? I certainly think so!
The novel follows Lizzie King and Tulane Baldwine as they come back into each others life following an illness on the Easterly estate. For Lizzie, she has pushed romance aside and buried herself in her work as head gardener, whereas Tulane holds up in New York, sleeping on a friends sofa and playing poker. And yet it isn't long before they meet at either end of the hallway, and Lizzie is fighting back her feelings for the man she once walked away from.
At the same time, other characters come into play, such as the eldest brother, Edward, scarred and lonely, and the only daughter, Gin, vivacious and wild. Each character is fleshed out and there is much more to them than what originally meets the eye.
Whilst Lizzie and Tulane struggle with their feelings, drama unfolds behind the scenes. What with engagements, divorces, deaths and pregnancies, it all seems to be revolving around money and the Bradford Bourbon Distillery.
With this being a contemporary romance, it can be believed that these kinds of family still throw their money around in places like Kentucky. It's certainly interesting to see the divide of wealth, with Lizzie driving her old Yaris, compared to the choice of cars that Tulane has at his disposal. The world building is great - simplistic, but the writing style keeps us engaged. We're so grounded in reality, compared to the wildness of the Cauldwell vampires, that it is quite refreshing.
There is honestly so much more that I could say about the book, but I don't want to spoil it too much for anyone. With it being the first book in the series, I'm excited to see the developments of characters, romances, and the twists that life will throw at this prestigious family. The Bourbon Kings Saga continues in book two, The Angel's Share on 26 July 2016.
You can find J. R. Ward on the Internet in the following places:
Website
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: The 100 by Kass Morgan
January 6, 2016
Back to Bambi
To all who are reading this,
Welcome to the first post of 2016! The months have flown by since I did a last update - in fact that was during reading week in October! Since then, I've had so much university work to be cracking on with - from forums, to presentations (group and solo), to essays. It's certainly kept me on my toes, but I'm enjoying every minute of it! I technically go back on 1 Feb, but I've got hand-in dates up until 18 Jan, but I'm on top of that.
If you can remember that update post, you'll also know that I was on a partial break from roller derby. Guess what?
I went back to the first training session last night, and I loved every second of it! Going back and seeing all those people so enthusiastic about the sport did my heart some good. I got to see my friends, and sort out that pesky Secret Santa business - I had a touch of food poisoning and couldn't go to the Reavers Christmas Meal.
Helmet hair!I paid my fee, glugged some water, and decided it was time to get kitted up. Cue untangling the Velcro of my Airwalk wrist and elbow guards - like normal. My brand new Anarchy knee pads (on sale from Amazon) were really comfy once they were on. There was a fuzzy feeling of pride as I secured my pink helmet, probably because I've started to cover it in stickers from The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and Assassin's Creed: Syndicate. And then I strapped on my Viper skates, and felt sick.
I hadn't been on my skates in ages, and I felt like Bambi all over again. Bearing in mind that the last time I put my Viper's on, I had problems with the tightness and grip of the wheels and spent some of the time like Cinderella, with a foot in the air, the skate being manhandled by fellow derby lads and lasses.
Sod it! Swallowing all my fear, I edged into the sports hall, and sort of hovered around the edge until lovely Erin aka #22 Bjorn to Hate, directed me over to the newbie corner for Stuff and Things with the others! I started off slow, remembering my stance, and as Erin went through the very basics again with our newest recruit, I started to feel more confident. I didn't do much in fairness, but I still felt good doing it! We'll forget about landing on my left butt cheek twice though, shall we?
I managed to get my speed up a little more (confidence is key), remembered left and right knee taps, rockstar's and a Superman with a great jiggle, apparently! I felt more confident on track, until I had to pull out with an aching joint.
(I had an accident involving my bike and a sixteen-wheeler lorry when I was eleven. I fractured two bones in my right leg, and in bad weather I still get a lot of cramps and aches).
When it was time to call it a night with the rest of the guys and girls, I was leaving the track with a smile on my face. I want to do this - I want to build my confidence, get fitter and have fun doing it! Seeing two of the guys pass their level two and receive their certificates was great and it's so inspiring! That will be me - I will get my minimum skills passed. Level one, I'm coming for you!
I'm aching in my legs from the derby stance, I've got twinges around my elbow, and my ribs for some reason are absolutely battering! Is it going to stop me going back? No, it bloody isn't!
I want to thank Erin if she's reading - she's a doll, a diamond, and whilst she's already someone's derby wife, she's definitely my derby mama!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: The 100 by Kass Morgan
Welcome to the first post of 2016! The months have flown by since I did a last update - in fact that was during reading week in October! Since then, I've had so much university work to be cracking on with - from forums, to presentations (group and solo), to essays. It's certainly kept me on my toes, but I'm enjoying every minute of it! I technically go back on 1 Feb, but I've got hand-in dates up until 18 Jan, but I'm on top of that.
If you can remember that update post, you'll also know that I was on a partial break from roller derby. Guess what?
I went back to the first training session last night, and I loved every second of it! Going back and seeing all those people so enthusiastic about the sport did my heart some good. I got to see my friends, and sort out that pesky Secret Santa business - I had a touch of food poisoning and couldn't go to the Reavers Christmas Meal.
Helmet hair!I paid my fee, glugged some water, and decided it was time to get kitted up. Cue untangling the Velcro of my Airwalk wrist and elbow guards - like normal. My brand new Anarchy knee pads (on sale from Amazon) were really comfy once they were on. There was a fuzzy feeling of pride as I secured my pink helmet, probably because I've started to cover it in stickers from The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and Assassin's Creed: Syndicate. And then I strapped on my Viper skates, and felt sick. I hadn't been on my skates in ages, and I felt like Bambi all over again. Bearing in mind that the last time I put my Viper's on, I had problems with the tightness and grip of the wheels and spent some of the time like Cinderella, with a foot in the air, the skate being manhandled by fellow derby lads and lasses.
Sod it! Swallowing all my fear, I edged into the sports hall, and sort of hovered around the edge until lovely Erin aka #22 Bjorn to Hate, directed me over to the newbie corner for Stuff and Things with the others! I started off slow, remembering my stance, and as Erin went through the very basics again with our newest recruit, I started to feel more confident. I didn't do much in fairness, but I still felt good doing it! We'll forget about landing on my left butt cheek twice though, shall we?
I managed to get my speed up a little more (confidence is key), remembered left and right knee taps, rockstar's and a Superman with a great jiggle, apparently! I felt more confident on track, until I had to pull out with an aching joint.
(I had an accident involving my bike and a sixteen-wheeler lorry when I was eleven. I fractured two bones in my right leg, and in bad weather I still get a lot of cramps and aches).
When it was time to call it a night with the rest of the guys and girls, I was leaving the track with a smile on my face. I want to do this - I want to build my confidence, get fitter and have fun doing it! Seeing two of the guys pass their level two and receive their certificates was great and it's so inspiring! That will be me - I will get my minimum skills passed. Level one, I'm coming for you!
I'm aching in my legs from the derby stance, I've got twinges around my elbow, and my ribs for some reason are absolutely battering! Is it going to stop me going back? No, it bloody isn't!
I want to thank Erin if she's reading - she's a doll, a diamond, and whilst she's already someone's derby wife, she's definitely my derby mama!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: The 100 by Kass Morgan
November 14, 2015
Cinder - A Review
To all who are reading this,
It's been a while since we've had a book review, but after finishing this, it's really sparked my brain into gear!
Today, I introduce you to Cinder, the first book in The Lunar Chronicles series by American author, Marissa Meyer. Published in 2012, it is a fantasy novel aimed at the young adult market. Forget everything you thought you knew about fairy tales, because you're about to step into the pages of a whole new world!
There may be spoilers.
Blurb
A forbidden romance. A deadly plague. Earth's fate hinges on one girl...
Cinder, a gifted mechanic in New Beijing, is also a cyborg. She's reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister's sudden illness. But when her life becomes entwined with the handsome Prince Kai's she finds herself at the centre of a violent struggle between the desire's of an evil queen - and a dangerous temptation.
Cinder is caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal. Now she must uncover secrets about her mysterious past in order to protect Earth's future.
I had first seen this book in an issue of Writing Magazine a few years back and I remember being intrigued by the cover. It's forever been at the back of my mind since seeing it, and after learning it was a fairy tale re-imagining, I have to admit that my intrigue dipped. Some fairy tales can be really well done, and I have to say, when I finally picked this up from my local library and read it, I found myself thoroughly enjoying it!
The cover is quite simplistic at first, but when you look back at it closely, it holds a lot of detail. The shine of the slipper is very glossy and stands out bright red against the deep blues and shadow effect. Cinder's leg is incredibly pale - unnaturally so, but this is clever. Inside of the leg we can see complex wiring, bolts and ball joints. Without reading the blurb, and just seeing the cover, we might be able to guess that she's some sort of robot.
The novel follows Linh Cinder as she tries to live through her ordinary life of family, coping with being a cyborg (a being with human and robotic parts), and responsibility. In fact, she is the sole worker of the family, bringing in money by working as a full-service mechanic at a weekly market in New Beijing. However, she gets the shock of her life when handsome Prince Kai arrives asking for help with his malfunctioning android. Promising to look it over, their meeting is cut short when an outbreak of plague, also known as letumosis, occurs at the market. And it isn't just the bakery owner to fall ill with the disease, but Cinder's own stepsister, Peony. When Cinder is volunteered for a cyborg draft to test for the disease and ways to cure it, her life takes an unexpected tumble, brining her in contact with Kai and the feared Lunar Queen Levana.
Cinder faces so much more turmoil in her teenage years than most girls ever would in the present day. Working to put ends meet on the table, trying to complete all the tasks her step-mother puts in front of her, and cope with all the new information that her central unit is trying to process. Her cyborg nature does take over at times, such as reminding her that too much adrenaline is coursing through her system. Of course, she doesn't like to speak about it too much with strangers and she would never dare show her arms or legs to Kai.
There is a burgeoning romance on the horizon. Kai seems much more normal around Cinder - less like a prince, and more like a street kid. His flirtatious attitude is certainly cute, especially when he stops the elevator and calls to her in front of medical researchers: "Come to the ball with me." Something that all the girls in New Beijing would kill for, and Cinder still refuses. For her pride, even though she is growing to care for him. He is certainly smitten with her at said ball. I'm interested to see where the romance goes in the rest of the series!
The science-fiction backgrounding in the novel is a really interesting concept, as I don't read much of that genre. The idea of androids and cyborgs in day to day lives is quite exciting, and whilst I know that we are all slaves to technology (whether it be computers, phones or tablets), this is something completely different. I would like to know more about New Beijing and how Earth is imagined within the series. And of course, the Lunar society is an incredibly intriguing one - a moon colony with different rules and powers over ordinary humans.
In fact, some of the characters and the setting reminds me of the manga and anime, Sailor Moon.
Meyer uses segments with quotes from the fairy tale to align the readers thought processes. For example, we know that in "Book One" we will meet characters and see their actions through the line, While her sisters were given beautiful dresses and fine slippers, Cinderella had only a filthy smock and wooden shoes.
There's so much more that I want to say on this book, but I really don't want to give too much away. It is a read that captured my imagination and my heart. Cinder is such a lovely character that we are rooting for her from the moment she starts loosening the screws in her ankle, to the moment she decides what she is going to do with her future and the new information that she now wields like a weapon.
Cinder's story continues in Scarlet (2013), Cress (2014) and Winter (due for release this year - 2015). Meyer also released Fairest: The Lunar Chronicles: Levana's Story (2015), a prequel to the series.
You can find Marissa Meyer on the Internet in the following places:
Facebook
Twitter
Amazon
Website
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Asking For It by Louise O'Neill
It's been a while since we've had a book review, but after finishing this, it's really sparked my brain into gear!
Today, I introduce you to Cinder, the first book in The Lunar Chronicles series by American author, Marissa Meyer. Published in 2012, it is a fantasy novel aimed at the young adult market. Forget everything you thought you knew about fairy tales, because you're about to step into the pages of a whole new world!
There may be spoilers.
Blurb A forbidden romance. A deadly plague. Earth's fate hinges on one girl...
Cinder, a gifted mechanic in New Beijing, is also a cyborg. She's reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister's sudden illness. But when her life becomes entwined with the handsome Prince Kai's she finds herself at the centre of a violent struggle between the desire's of an evil queen - and a dangerous temptation.
Cinder is caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal. Now she must uncover secrets about her mysterious past in order to protect Earth's future.
I had first seen this book in an issue of Writing Magazine a few years back and I remember being intrigued by the cover. It's forever been at the back of my mind since seeing it, and after learning it was a fairy tale re-imagining, I have to admit that my intrigue dipped. Some fairy tales can be really well done, and I have to say, when I finally picked this up from my local library and read it, I found myself thoroughly enjoying it!
The cover is quite simplistic at first, but when you look back at it closely, it holds a lot of detail. The shine of the slipper is very glossy and stands out bright red against the deep blues and shadow effect. Cinder's leg is incredibly pale - unnaturally so, but this is clever. Inside of the leg we can see complex wiring, bolts and ball joints. Without reading the blurb, and just seeing the cover, we might be able to guess that she's some sort of robot.
The novel follows Linh Cinder as she tries to live through her ordinary life of family, coping with being a cyborg (a being with human and robotic parts), and responsibility. In fact, she is the sole worker of the family, bringing in money by working as a full-service mechanic at a weekly market in New Beijing. However, she gets the shock of her life when handsome Prince Kai arrives asking for help with his malfunctioning android. Promising to look it over, their meeting is cut short when an outbreak of plague, also known as letumosis, occurs at the market. And it isn't just the bakery owner to fall ill with the disease, but Cinder's own stepsister, Peony. When Cinder is volunteered for a cyborg draft to test for the disease and ways to cure it, her life takes an unexpected tumble, brining her in contact with Kai and the feared Lunar Queen Levana.
Cinder faces so much more turmoil in her teenage years than most girls ever would in the present day. Working to put ends meet on the table, trying to complete all the tasks her step-mother puts in front of her, and cope with all the new information that her central unit is trying to process. Her cyborg nature does take over at times, such as reminding her that too much adrenaline is coursing through her system. Of course, she doesn't like to speak about it too much with strangers and she would never dare show her arms or legs to Kai.
There is a burgeoning romance on the horizon. Kai seems much more normal around Cinder - less like a prince, and more like a street kid. His flirtatious attitude is certainly cute, especially when he stops the elevator and calls to her in front of medical researchers: "Come to the ball with me." Something that all the girls in New Beijing would kill for, and Cinder still refuses. For her pride, even though she is growing to care for him. He is certainly smitten with her at said ball. I'm interested to see where the romance goes in the rest of the series!
The science-fiction backgrounding in the novel is a really interesting concept, as I don't read much of that genre. The idea of androids and cyborgs in day to day lives is quite exciting, and whilst I know that we are all slaves to technology (whether it be computers, phones or tablets), this is something completely different. I would like to know more about New Beijing and how Earth is imagined within the series. And of course, the Lunar society is an incredibly intriguing one - a moon colony with different rules and powers over ordinary humans.
In fact, some of the characters and the setting reminds me of the manga and anime, Sailor Moon.
Meyer uses segments with quotes from the fairy tale to align the readers thought processes. For example, we know that in "Book One" we will meet characters and see their actions through the line, While her sisters were given beautiful dresses and fine slippers, Cinderella had only a filthy smock and wooden shoes.
There's so much more that I want to say on this book, but I really don't want to give too much away. It is a read that captured my imagination and my heart. Cinder is such a lovely character that we are rooting for her from the moment she starts loosening the screws in her ankle, to the moment she decides what she is going to do with her future and the new information that she now wields like a weapon.
Cinder's story continues in Scarlet (2013), Cress (2014) and Winter (due for release this year - 2015). Meyer also released Fairest: The Lunar Chronicles: Levana's Story (2015), a prequel to the series.
You can find Marissa Meyer on the Internet in the following places:
Amazon
Website
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Asking For It by Louise O'Neill
November 5, 2015
Autumn Cozy Time Book Tag
To all who are reading this,
Today it's Bonfire Night, and whilst I'm not going out to enjoy the fireworks until Saturday, I thought that today was the perfect opportunity for this cute little tag!
I love autumn weather! I love to go out in my comfy hat, scarf and gloves, and for some strange reason, I like to travel on buses when the weather is starting to get dark. The crunchy leaves, the warm homes, nourishing meals and cups of hot tea... Perfect weather to curl up on the sofa, or in bed, on a Netflix binge or reading a good book!
I spotted this tag on Regan's Youtube account. Regan is a book blogger, and after watching her video on this tag, I started Googling it. I came across the tag on Into the Bookcase blog owned by Katie Thompson!
1. Crunching Leaves: The world is full of colour - choose a book that has reds/oranges/yellows on the cover.
I've got plenty of books that fall into this category, but I decided to choose Inkheart by Cornelia Funke (2003). Inkheart follows the story of a young bookaholic, Meggie, and her bookbinder father, Mo. Meggie's world is suddenly turned upside when a stranger knocks on the door one night, with knowledge of Meggie's missing mother and a fantastical story of his own. I remember getting this book around this time of year as a child, and it captivated my heart.
2. Cozy Sweater: It's finally cold enough to don warm cozy clothing! What book gives you the warm fuzzies?
Stardust by Neil Gaiman (1998), without a doubt. Stardust follows the story of Tristan Thorne who promises to bring back a fallen star to the love of his life. Little does Tristan know that various others are also after the star, and he enters a world full of magic and whimsy... It's an easy read, but the overall plot and romance involved just melts my heart!
3. Fall Storm: The wind is howling and the rain is pounding! Choose your favourite book or genre that you like to read on a stormy day.
Whenever the weather comes howling, I'm usually part way through a book anyway, so this is quite a difficult question. I'd say I normally read some kind of fantasy - nothing like forgetting the weather and the world around you, and diving into a whole new one. To be honest, the weather is terrible now, and I'm reading YA fantasy Cinder by Marissa Meyer (2012). Inspired by the fairy tale Cinderlla, we follow Cinder, a gifted cyborg mechanic who's life becomes entwined with that of Prince Kai, the future ruler of New Bejing...
4. Cool Crisp Air: What's the coolest character that you'd want to change places with?
I'm sure that I'm not the first person to say that they'd change places with Hermione Granger from the Harry Potter series (1997-2007). She is the smartest witch of her age after all, and I just really want to go to Hogwarts, okay? In case you've been hidden under a rock, the series follows wizard Harry Potter as he attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and the challenges that face him....
5. Hot Apple Cider: What under hyped book do you want to see become the next biggest, hottest thing?
I'm a huge Sarah J. Maas fan, so I'd kill for either the Throne of Glass series (2012-ongoing) or A Court of Thorns and Roses series (2015-ongoing), to get some kind of film or television show. Both fantastical tales, they feature strong female protagonists that we so desperately need more of!
Throne of Glass was featured on the blog, so check out what I thought of it here!
A Court of Thorns and Roses follows Feyre, a young girl trying to survive the harsh hand that fate has dealt her, as she comes into contact with dangerous faerie, Tamlin. Feyre finds herself learning more about magic and curses, and falling in love than she ever thought she would...
6. Coat, Scarves and Mittens: The weather has turned cold and it's time to cover up! What's the most embarrassing book cover that you like to keep hidden in public?
I'm not ashamed of any of my books, so I don't think this question counts for me. I'm the type to have the book out on public transport, and not give a hoot! It has to be said though that I've seen plenty of people hiding their copies of Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James (2011)! Another franchise taking the world by storm, Fifty Shades of Grey follows student Anastasia Steele as she unexpectedly enters the world of Christian Grey, where desire and dark secrets go hand in hand...
7. Pumpkin Spice: What's your favourite autumn comfort food/foods?
I really like anything with potato when it gets to this time of year, whether it's stew or casserole and mash, or a baked potato. And I'd never say no to washing it down with a cup of tea!
I'm getting hungry just looking at Google!
What are you reading this autumn? Enjoy your Bonfire celebrations, whatever you are doing, and remember to stay safe!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Cinder by Marissa Meyer
Today it's Bonfire Night, and whilst I'm not going out to enjoy the fireworks until Saturday, I thought that today was the perfect opportunity for this cute little tag!
I love autumn weather! I love to go out in my comfy hat, scarf and gloves, and for some strange reason, I like to travel on buses when the weather is starting to get dark. The crunchy leaves, the warm homes, nourishing meals and cups of hot tea... Perfect weather to curl up on the sofa, or in bed, on a Netflix binge or reading a good book!
I spotted this tag on Regan's Youtube account. Regan is a book blogger, and after watching her video on this tag, I started Googling it. I came across the tag on Into the Bookcase blog owned by Katie Thompson!
1. Crunching Leaves: The world is full of colour - choose a book that has reds/oranges/yellows on the cover.
I've got plenty of books that fall into this category, but I decided to choose Inkheart by Cornelia Funke (2003). Inkheart follows the story of a young bookaholic, Meggie, and her bookbinder father, Mo. Meggie's world is suddenly turned upside when a stranger knocks on the door one night, with knowledge of Meggie's missing mother and a fantastical story of his own. I remember getting this book around this time of year as a child, and it captivated my heart.
2. Cozy Sweater: It's finally cold enough to don warm cozy clothing! What book gives you the warm fuzzies?
Stardust by Neil Gaiman (1998), without a doubt. Stardust follows the story of Tristan Thorne who promises to bring back a fallen star to the love of his life. Little does Tristan know that various others are also after the star, and he enters a world full of magic and whimsy... It's an easy read, but the overall plot and romance involved just melts my heart!
3. Fall Storm: The wind is howling and the rain is pounding! Choose your favourite book or genre that you like to read on a stormy day.
Whenever the weather comes howling, I'm usually part way through a book anyway, so this is quite a difficult question. I'd say I normally read some kind of fantasy - nothing like forgetting the weather and the world around you, and diving into a whole new one. To be honest, the weather is terrible now, and I'm reading YA fantasy Cinder by Marissa Meyer (2012). Inspired by the fairy tale Cinderlla, we follow Cinder, a gifted cyborg mechanic who's life becomes entwined with that of Prince Kai, the future ruler of New Bejing...
4. Cool Crisp Air: What's the coolest character that you'd want to change places with?
I'm sure that I'm not the first person to say that they'd change places with Hermione Granger from the Harry Potter series (1997-2007). She is the smartest witch of her age after all, and I just really want to go to Hogwarts, okay? In case you've been hidden under a rock, the series follows wizard Harry Potter as he attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and the challenges that face him....
5. Hot Apple Cider: What under hyped book do you want to see become the next biggest, hottest thing?
I'm a huge Sarah J. Maas fan, so I'd kill for either the Throne of Glass series (2012-ongoing) or A Court of Thorns and Roses series (2015-ongoing), to get some kind of film or television show. Both fantastical tales, they feature strong female protagonists that we so desperately need more of!
Throne of Glass was featured on the blog, so check out what I thought of it here!
A Court of Thorns and Roses follows Feyre, a young girl trying to survive the harsh hand that fate has dealt her, as she comes into contact with dangerous faerie, Tamlin. Feyre finds herself learning more about magic and curses, and falling in love than she ever thought she would...
6. Coat, Scarves and Mittens: The weather has turned cold and it's time to cover up! What's the most embarrassing book cover that you like to keep hidden in public?
I'm not ashamed of any of my books, so I don't think this question counts for me. I'm the type to have the book out on public transport, and not give a hoot! It has to be said though that I've seen plenty of people hiding their copies of Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James (2011)! Another franchise taking the world by storm, Fifty Shades of Grey follows student Anastasia Steele as she unexpectedly enters the world of Christian Grey, where desire and dark secrets go hand in hand...
7. Pumpkin Spice: What's your favourite autumn comfort food/foods?
I really like anything with potato when it gets to this time of year, whether it's stew or casserole and mash, or a baked potato. And I'd never say no to washing it down with a cup of tea!
I'm getting hungry just looking at Google!What are you reading this autumn? Enjoy your Bonfire celebrations, whatever you are doing, and remember to stay safe!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Cinder by Marissa Meyer
October 30, 2015
Halloween Book Tag
To all the ghoulies and ghosties,
I spotted this tag on Sasha Alsberg's Youtube account. Sasha is a book blogger and always posts such interesting and zany videos - she's honestly a joy to watch, and I've definitely added a few books onto my To-Be-Read list because of her!
When I spotted the tag, I thought that this would be the perfect post to do - you know, what with it being Halloween this weekend!
1. Favourite horror book?
One of my absolute favourite books is Let The Right One In by John Ajvide Lindqvist (2007). It follows Oskar, a twelve year-old Swedish boy, who makes friends with the new girl next door. A girl who only comes out at night... As well as meeting Eli, there's a series of grisly murders occurring all over the town. Anything can happen to any character, at any moment... This book had so many twists and turns, and I just had to keep reading. It's not just a vampire book - it's definitely a horror book. It's popularity led to the Swedish 2008 film, and later an American re-make in 2010, known as Let Me In.
2. Scariest moment in a book you've read?
There's a scene early on in S.L. Grey's The Mall (2011), that made me put the book down and not pick it back up. Dan is an emo kid who works in a mall, and one evening he meets Rhoda, a drug addict. Rhoda's in a spot of bother - her babysitting charge has run away whilst she was busy scoring cocaine. As they try and find the kid, they are led into the dark parts of the mall, behind the shutters, with noises and disturbing text messages and creepy mannequins at every corner. It was so well written that it honestly scared me and I had to read something cute and fluffy straight away to get away from the horror.
3. Have you ever dressed up as a book character for Halloween?
I like strange costumes, but I haven't dressed up properly in a while. Last year, Halloween was on a Friday and I was at work, so I was a standard Gryffindor, studying at Hogwarts, with my scarf and striped tights - not very exciting really.
This year at a friend's Halloween party, I gave my take on Harley Quinn from DC'S Batman. That was such a fun costume, and I love the character so much!
Joker / Harley Quinn / Scarecrow
4. What do you think your favourite fictional character would dress up as for Halloween?
I think that Kirito from Reki Kawahara's Sword Art Online (2009-ongoing), would be bullied into a costume - something like a skeleton, or a vampire. As long as he got to wear black (after all, he is The Black Swordsman) I don't think he'd care, as long as he was with his friends.
His in-game wife, Asuna, would be something like a witch - she's pretty and enchanting anyway, so it's a perfect fit!
Their in-game daughter, Yui, would be something oh-so cute like a cat or a bunny, or some form of animal, just to really put it across how sweet, delicate and young she really is - to give her the real Halloween experience.
Credit to Eclair Designs
5. What is your favourite type of horror?
I love slasher horror films - nothing better than seeing a group of teenagers be murdered by classic horror vllains, and watching them make hundreds of mistakes. And then saying, "If I was in this film, I wouldn't do that!"
And when I say classics, I mean stuff like The Last House on the Left (1972), The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1973), Halloween (1978), The Amityville Horror (1979) Friday the 13th (1980), A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984), Scream (1996) - you get the hint!
6. If books were as cheap as candy, what would you give to trick or treaters?
If you came to trick or treat, I'd give out copies of 1408, a short story by Stephen King (1999). It follows Mike Enslin, a non-fiction writer, as he stays in room 1408 of Hotel Dolphin in New York. A room that is technically on the thirteenth floor, with its digits adding up to the unlucky number. A room that has seen 42 deaths within a span of 68 years. 12 of these were suicides and 30 were "natural". Mike is a sceptic - will you be after your encounter in 1408?
7. Halloween To-Be-Read list?
I'm rereading The Southern Vampire Mysteries series by Charlaine Harris (2001-2013) at the moment, because hey, there's some vampires and shape-shifters around. Only problem is I really want to start rewatching it's HBO adaptation, True Blood (2008-2014) all over again...
Earlier on in the year though, I did finally get around to reading It by Stephen King (1986). I finally battled my fear of Pennywise the Dancing Clown, but it'll be a while before I watch the film adaptation (1990), with Tim Curry in the role as Pennywise/It.
8. Recommend any Halloween reads?
A recommended readI've mentioned quite a few good Halloween reads already, but here's a few more:
Interview With The Vampire by Anne Rice (1976). A classic vampire tale for adult's that started many peoples love of creatures of the night.
The Shining by Stephen King (1977). A psychological horror from the master himself, written for adults. This speaks for itself - unnerving and plays on the mind, and not the gag reflex, very much like 1408.
The Tooth Fairy by Graham Joyce (1996). An adult horror novel that leaves the reader with questions about their childhood beliefs, and the myths and legends that we told were fantasy.
Coraline by Neil Gaiman (2002). A dark fantasy children's book, that unnerved me reading it back as an adult.
The Fearless by Emma Pass (2014). A science-fiction young adult's book, with zombies, love and Lincolnshire.
What are you reading for Halloween? Hope you're doing something wickedly evil!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Club Dead by Charlaine Harris
I spotted this tag on Sasha Alsberg's Youtube account. Sasha is a book blogger and always posts such interesting and zany videos - she's honestly a joy to watch, and I've definitely added a few books onto my To-Be-Read list because of her!
When I spotted the tag, I thought that this would be the perfect post to do - you know, what with it being Halloween this weekend!
1. Favourite horror book?
One of my absolute favourite books is Let The Right One In by John Ajvide Lindqvist (2007). It follows Oskar, a twelve year-old Swedish boy, who makes friends with the new girl next door. A girl who only comes out at night... As well as meeting Eli, there's a series of grisly murders occurring all over the town. Anything can happen to any character, at any moment... This book had so many twists and turns, and I just had to keep reading. It's not just a vampire book - it's definitely a horror book. It's popularity led to the Swedish 2008 film, and later an American re-make in 2010, known as Let Me In.
2. Scariest moment in a book you've read? There's a scene early on in S.L. Grey's The Mall (2011), that made me put the book down and not pick it back up. Dan is an emo kid who works in a mall, and one evening he meets Rhoda, a drug addict. Rhoda's in a spot of bother - her babysitting charge has run away whilst she was busy scoring cocaine. As they try and find the kid, they are led into the dark parts of the mall, behind the shutters, with noises and disturbing text messages and creepy mannequins at every corner. It was so well written that it honestly scared me and I had to read something cute and fluffy straight away to get away from the horror.
3. Have you ever dressed up as a book character for Halloween?
I like strange costumes, but I haven't dressed up properly in a while. Last year, Halloween was on a Friday and I was at work, so I was a standard Gryffindor, studying at Hogwarts, with my scarf and striped tights - not very exciting really.
This year at a friend's Halloween party, I gave my take on Harley Quinn from DC'S Batman. That was such a fun costume, and I love the character so much!
Joker / Harley Quinn / Scarecrow
4. What do you think your favourite fictional character would dress up as for Halloween?
I think that Kirito from Reki Kawahara's Sword Art Online (2009-ongoing), would be bullied into a costume - something like a skeleton, or a vampire. As long as he got to wear black (after all, he is The Black Swordsman) I don't think he'd care, as long as he was with his friends.
His in-game wife, Asuna, would be something like a witch - she's pretty and enchanting anyway, so it's a perfect fit!
Their in-game daughter, Yui, would be something oh-so cute like a cat or a bunny, or some form of animal, just to really put it across how sweet, delicate and young she really is - to give her the real Halloween experience.
Credit to Eclair Designs5. What is your favourite type of horror?
I love slasher horror films - nothing better than seeing a group of teenagers be murdered by classic horror vllains, and watching them make hundreds of mistakes. And then saying, "If I was in this film, I wouldn't do that!" And when I say classics, I mean stuff like The Last House on the Left (1972), The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1973), Halloween (1978), The Amityville Horror (1979) Friday the 13th (1980), A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984), Scream (1996) - you get the hint!
6. If books were as cheap as candy, what would you give to trick or treaters?
If you came to trick or treat, I'd give out copies of 1408, a short story by Stephen King (1999). It follows Mike Enslin, a non-fiction writer, as he stays in room 1408 of Hotel Dolphin in New York. A room that is technically on the thirteenth floor, with its digits adding up to the unlucky number. A room that has seen 42 deaths within a span of 68 years. 12 of these were suicides and 30 were "natural". Mike is a sceptic - will you be after your encounter in 1408? 7. Halloween To-Be-Read list?
I'm rereading The Southern Vampire Mysteries series by Charlaine Harris (2001-2013) at the moment, because hey, there's some vampires and shape-shifters around. Only problem is I really want to start rewatching it's HBO adaptation, True Blood (2008-2014) all over again... 
Earlier on in the year though, I did finally get around to reading It by Stephen King (1986). I finally battled my fear of Pennywise the Dancing Clown, but it'll be a while before I watch the film adaptation (1990), with Tim Curry in the role as Pennywise/It.8. Recommend any Halloween reads?
A recommended readI've mentioned quite a few good Halloween reads already, but here's a few more:Interview With The Vampire by Anne Rice (1976). A classic vampire tale for adult's that started many peoples love of creatures of the night.
The Shining by Stephen King (1977). A psychological horror from the master himself, written for adults. This speaks for itself - unnerving and plays on the mind, and not the gag reflex, very much like 1408.
The Tooth Fairy by Graham Joyce (1996). An adult horror novel that leaves the reader with questions about their childhood beliefs, and the myths and legends that we told were fantasy.
Coraline by Neil Gaiman (2002). A dark fantasy children's book, that unnerved me reading it back as an adult.
The Fearless by Emma Pass (2014). A science-fiction young adult's book, with zombies, love and Lincolnshire.
What are you reading for Halloween? Hope you're doing something wickedly evil!
Yours, with eternal ink,
Zoe
---
Currently reading: Club Dead by Charlaine Harris
