Book Review: Me and Earl and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews

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Pages: 295
Published: March 2012
Genres: YA, Contemporary, Humor

Goodreads Synopsis...
Greg Gaines is the last master of high school espionage, able to disappear at will into any social environment. He has only one friend, Earl, and together they spend their time making movies, their own incomprehensible versions of Coppola and Herzog cult classics.

Until Greg’s mother forces him to rekindle his childhood friendship with Rachel.

Rachel has been diagnosed with leukemia—-cue extreme adolescent awkwardness—-but a parental mandate has been issued and must be obeyed. When Rachel stops treatment, Greg and Earl decide the thing to do is to make a film for her, which turns into the Worst Film Ever Made and becomes a turning point in each of their lives.

And all at once Greg must abandon invisibility and stand in the spotlight
 
Review...
This is a love it or hate it book. It all hinges on whether or not you find it funny. If you find it funny, it will be hilarious, and you will love it. If you dont find it funny, then you will be subjected to stupid barf jokes more than anyone should. I am without a doubt in the latter group.

Gregs humor is like listening to someone who isnt naturally funny, try their hardest to tell a joke. So you laugh politely, not knowing that they will cling to this encouragement. Will then declare themselves funny, and will never stop telling bad jokes. (lesson: do not laugh unless something is funny, it benefits no one)

The problem with me not finding this book funny, is that there is nothing else. No interesting storyline, no likeable characters. And not even a hint of some life lesson about cancer or growing up. Instead you get deeply unlikable characters, monologues about how awkward things can be, and ever present barf jokes.

The one redeemable thing I found about the book, was the protrayal of Greg. He is the most accurate and honest description of a teenage boy, I have ever seen.

3/5

Book Review: Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Mass

*This is the second book in a series. If you haven't read Throne of Glass. Then don't read this review as there are spoilers.

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Throne of Glass #2
Pages: 432
Published: August 2013
Genres: YA, Fantasy, Romance

Goodreads Synopsis...
From the throne of glass rules a king with a fist of iron and a soul black as pitch. Assassin Celaena Sardothien won a brutal contest to become his Champion. Yet Celaena is far from loyal to the crown. She hides her secret vigilantly; she knows that the man she serves is bent on evil.

Keeping up the deadly charade becomes increasingly difficult when Celaena realizes she is not the only one seeking justice. As she tries to untangle the mysteries buried deep within the glass castle, her closest relationships suffer. It seems no one is above questioning her allegiances—not the Crown Prince Dorian; not Chaol, the Captain of the Guard; not even her best friend, Nehemia, a foreign princess with a rebel heart.

Then one terrible night, the secrets they have all been keeping lead to an unspeakable tragedy. As Celaena's world shatters, she will be forced to give up the very thing most precious to her and decide once and for all where her true loyalties lie...and whom she is ultimately willing to fight for.
 
Review...
I really enjoyed the second book in this series. Although theres something stopping me from really loving it. And Im not sure what. Maybe book three will win me over completely.

Crown of Midnight was so much better than Throne of Glass. First of all, the love triangle is gone! I was so happy when it went away, and also really surprised. I fully expected the author to keep it around longer, and I couldn't be happier that she decided not to. 

Secondly, we finally got to see Celaena being all assassin like. I have never been so happy that someone starting killing people. (Ok maybe I have) This is the bad ass character I was looking for in the first book. Finally the author decided to show and not just tell me, how awesome and strong the main character is.

Also the fantasy aspect of the story is developing more, and that is only good news. I cant wait for it to become an even bigger part of the story. But I really like where its going right now.

There were some things that I didn't like, the first of which was the romance. I just found it to be so dull, and uninteresting. Mostly because of who she chose. Don't get me wrong, I want her to be with the person she chose. He is definitely right for her. I just wish he weren't so boring as a character.

The start of the book is also kinda slow, especially compared to the rest of the book. Which is full of action and excitement. Also I was a bit underwhelmed by the end. I knew it was coming, and it just felt a bit messy and rushed.

With that said I still really enjoyed this book, and look forward to book 3.  

4/5

Book Review: The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

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Pages: 254
Published: 1890
Genres: Classics, Horror, Literature

Goodreads Synopsis...
The tale of a youth whose features, year after year, retain the same appearance of innocent beauty while the shame of his abhorrent vices becomes mirrored on the features of his portrait.
 
Review...
I have never found so many quotes I like from one book, as I have in The Picture of Dorian Gray. Oscar Wilde is a true artist when it comes to words. Every sentence, every line revealed something more, it was like poetry and was exquisite to read.

The writing is without a doubt, my favourite thing about this book. I also feel as though there is so much I've missed, and I look forward to reading this again. To find the gems that I missed the first time.

The characters are another thing that I liked about this book. All of them are extremely unlikeable, but also extremely interesting. Basil and his love for Dorian, was such an interesting relationship. There's a kind of desperation to Basil that makes him both pathetic and endearing to me. Henry seemed to be the writers way of imparting new perspectives on things. I felt like whenever Henry spoke, I should be ready to take down a new favourite quote. And then there is Dorian, who becomes somewhat of a psychopath, while of course retaining his innocent beauty.

The way that this story explored themes of vanity, identity and the soul was quite unique. Also I really liked that there was a continual tone of elegance, even during situations of cruelty and horror. This was such an interesting book, and I look forward to reading it again.

4.5/5

Book Review: The Child Thief by Brom

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Pages: 481
Published: Aug 2009
Genres: Fantasy, Horror, Fairytale Retelling

Synopsis...
The first time you see Peter, it is a strange sight to behold. Bright red hair, freckles, and pointy shoes. An ever present mischievous smile. And a laugh that is infectious, making you both wary and relaxed around him.

He will save you from your troubles, and take you to a magical place. Do you want to play a game? He will ask. Just be careful of your answer. Because the place he will take you to, is not like Neverland. And the game he wants you play could end in death.

In The Child Thief, Peter saves lost and scared children. Offering them a place in Avalon, a once beautiful and lush paradise. That is now gray and filled with war. Here is where Peter asks you to play, asks you to fight for him. 

So... Do you want to play a game?

Review... 
This is a masterpiece. I don't remember ever saying that about a book, but this one demands I do. I am at a huge risk to just gush about this book, so heres why you MUST read it!

Characters: Everyone in this book was diverse and interesting. They were all unique in their own ways, and constantly surprised me. Each character is multidimensional, they are all both good and bad. With complicated back stories, that made me understand them fully and empathize, even with the characters I hated. Peter is one of the most complex characters I have even come across. He is charming and childlike. Then he is cruel and cold, and then he is lovable and pitiful. His back story which we get to see through flash backs, made me incredibly sad. And showed how this intricate person came to be.

Setting: I felt like I was there with the children in Avalon. Surrounded by the gray landscape that hinted at a magic beneath. With faeries trying to steal my food, and danger lurking outside the big round door. The illustrations also added to my vision of Avalon and its occupants. They were very detailed, and gave me a picture of Peter, Nick and the rest of the characters, that was so much better than my own. The atmosphere of Avalon, and also Boston was also really good, and added to the horror and creepiness of this book.

Plot: The darkness and the cruelty of this story were kind of a shock to read. Not because they were outrageous, in fact it was the opposite. The things that happen are realistic, and happen in the world today. But the way in which they were told, no sugar coating, no holding back, just simply described for me. Made me have to stop reading more than once. Overall the plot was rich and unique, and I loved seeing things from Peter and Nicks perspective. And although the ending wasn't as epic as I was hoping. It was still as dark and twisted as the rest of this book, and in a way felt just right.

I feel like Ive barely brushed the surface of how amazing this book is. It is probably my new favourite book ever, and I couldnt recomend it enough!

5/5

Book Review: Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

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Throne of Glass #1
Pages: 426
Published: August 2012
Genres: YA, Fantasy, Romance

Goodreads Synopsis...
Meet Celaena Sardothien. Beautiful. Deadly. Destined for greatness.

In the dark, filthy salt mines of Endovier, an eighteen-year-old girl is serving a life sentence. She is a trained assassin, the best of her kind, but she made a fatal mistake: she got caught.

Young Captain Westfall offers her a deal: her freedom in return for one huge sacrifice. Celaena must represent the prince in a to-the-death tournament—fighting the most gifted thieves and assassins in the land. Live or die, Celaena will be free. Win or lose, she is about to discover her true destiny. But will her assassin’s heart be melted?
 
Review...
This is going to be one of those reviews, where I say that I really liked a book. And then proceed to tell you the many things I didnt like.

Throne of Glass was a really enjoyable read. The writing style was fun, and kept me interested the whole way through. You also get to see the story through not only Celaena's eyes, but also Captain Westfall and Prince Dorian. It was great to be able to see what they were doing away from each other, especially as they were major parts of the story.

Another thing I really liked about the story was Celaena. She is this bad ass assassin, who can kill you and look amazing doing it. She embraces her looks and femininity, using them to her advantage. Also she was such a strong willed and stubborn character, even in precarious situations. And she loved to read. Need I say more.

Ok so those are the things I liked, now the things I didnt.

Unnecessary love triangle: Oh love triangles, how you plague me. The one that appeared in this story was expected, and turned out to be unoriginal and kind of dull. Mainly because it caused me no uncertainty. I knew who she would chose eventually. I wasn't worried, I wasn't rooting for the underdog. Because I knew it would be useless. (And I was right) Why couldn't they just be friends? Oh I know, because its YA. 

Implied Violence instead of actual violence: Basically I wanted more violence. Maas continually describes violent or action scenes after they have finished. The challenges were often skimmed over, in favor of the aforesaid useless love triangle. Also Celaena doesn't really get enough chances to show us her assassin side. Its something we always know about, but don't experience enough.

Slightly implausible: There were some situations, like the Prince being left alone with an assassin. That just didnt seem like they would actually happen. Also the whole challenge scenario also seems a bit dubious. Would a king actually allow an assassin or criminal to work closly with him, and have a high position in the kingdom. Then after a few years let them go free. I dont know about that.

So like I said at the beginning, I had my misgivings about this book. But I still enjoyed it, and I will definitely continue to read about Celaena the assassin.

4/5

Manga Book Review: Death Note Volume 1 by Tsugumi Ohba & Takeshi Obata

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Volume 1: Boredom
Pages: 195
Published: Jan 2001 Genres: Manga, Ya, Fantasy 

Goodreads Synopsis... 
Light Yagami is an ace student with great prospects - and he's bored out of his mind. But all that changes when he finds the Death Note, a notebook dropped by a rogue Shinigami death god. Any human whose name is written in the notebook dies, and now Light has vowed to use the power of the Death Note to rid the world of evil.

But when criminals begin dropping dead, the authorities send the legendary detective L to track down the killer. With L hot on his heels, will Light lose sight of his noble goal...or his life?

Review...
I had very high expectations for Death Note, and they were all met! It was such a great book, and Im so glad it was my first manga.

The best thing about this book is its storyline and plot. At first glance it seems like it would be simple, but it is definitely not. There are so many layers to this story, which are only really touched on in this first volume. Also I loved the way in which the themes of death, power, and what is good and bad were addressed in this. And I cant wait to see them explored more through this unique story.

The characters were another thing I loved about this book. Light particularly surprised me in the ways he reacted to situations. He's so devious and convincing in the things that he does. The detective L, was very smart and I cant wait to see how he develops. And Ryuk the death god was very mysterious. Also his interactions with Light were awkwardly funny, which I really liked.

My only complaint is that sometimes I felt the illustrations were to packed together. Especially when showing the death god world. I would have loved to see this book in colour. I think it would make it even better. But overall I did enjoy the illustrations.

Cant wait to jump into volume 2, and see what happens next with Light and Ryuk!
 
5/5

Book Review: Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry

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Pushing the Limits #1
Pages: 203
Published: July 2012
Genres: YA, Romance

Goodreads Synopsis... 
I can't remember the night that changed my life. The night I went from popular girl to loner freak. And my family are determined to keep it that way.

They said therapy was supposed to help. They didn't expect Noah.

Noah is the dangerous boy my parents warned me about. But he's the only one who'll listen. The only one who'll help me find the truth.

I know every kiss, every promise, every touch is forbidden. But what if finding your destiny means breaking all the rules?

Review... 
I started reading this book, and I really didn't like it. It was cliched and stereotypical. The voices of the main characters were not believable and their dialogue felt stiff. I was separated from the characters and their stories because of this. They were like cardboard cut-outs with difficult lives, that I didn't really care about. Then without even really noticing it, something changed.

After about 50 to 70 pages I really started enjoying the book. I also started caring about Echo and Noah. I wanted things to work out for them, and I wanted them to end up together. I think this change is mostly due to the voices of the characters. Somewhere along the way, they became much more individual and they felt honest. As well as this the smoothness of the writing definitely improved, making for a better reading experience.

By the end of the book, I was completely invested in this story, the characters and their struggles. It still had its flaws, and was still a bit predictable. But overall it was a great book about two very complicated lives coming together.

4/5

Graphic Novel Review: Saga Volume 1 by Brian K. Vaughan & Fiona Staples

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Volume 1
Pages: 160
Published: Oct 2012
Genres: Graphic Novel, Fantasy,Science Fiction, Adult

Goodreads Synopsis... 
When two soldiers from opposite sides of a never-ending galactic war fall in love, they risk everything to bring a fragile new life into a dangerous old universe.

Review... 
I couldn't possibly have picked a better first graphic novel to read. Saga was amazing! It was like a 5 star meal with many courses. Each one incredibly delicious, making my mouth water for what would come next.

The writing and dialogue was interesting and funny. The characters were all crazy and different. Everyone having their own unique voice, and I loved all of them. I also really liked that the baby that is born, is the one telling the story. Its almost like you get a secret glimpse into their lives.

The world or should I say universe that this is set in, is captivating and rich. Both because of the strange and amazing characters that fill them. And also because of the beautiful and detailed way they are shown in the illustrations. The themes of family, race, war and love are dealt with in a subtle way which I appreciated. 

Just overall this was an amazing graphic novel, and I cant wait to read volume 2!

5/5

Book Review: Where She Went by Gayle Forman

*This is the second book in a series. If you haven't read If I Stay. Then don't read this review as there are spoilers.

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If I Stay #2
Pages: 274
Published: Apr 2011
Genres: YA, Romance, Contemporary

Goodreads Synopsis...  
It's been three years since Mia walked out of Adam's life.
And three years he's spent wondering why.
When their paths cross again in New York City, Adam and Mia are brought back together for one life-changing night.

Adam finally has the opportunity to ask Mia the questions that have been haunting him. But will a few hours in this magical city be enough to lay their past to rest, for good - or can you really have a second chance at first love?
 
Review...
If you've read my review of If I Stay, then you know I compared it to a stained glass window. This book is like stepping away from that window, from the light that shines through its newly put together pieces. Turning around and facing a new direction. You can still feel the warmth of the sun, and you know the colours and pictures are just behind you. But you no longer see them.

I loved the honest and unique way in which Adams story unraveled. He is in a very bad place, and we get to feel how much previous events have effected him. 

Just like If I Stay, the writing is simple yet truthful. The characters, feel real and their struggles become the readers struggles. I am becoming a big fan of Formans writing style, with its excellent pacing. And lyrics at the start of each chapter that connected things wonderfully, and that I would be thrilled to see become real songs.

The one thing I was missing in this book was Mia's family. They were not only my favourite thing in the previous book. But the flashbacks allowed for a balance between sorrow and happiness. That made the happy times sweeter, and made the sad present even more heartbreaking. Even so I still enjoyed this book, and would definitely recommend it to those who have read If I Stay.
 
4/5

Book Review: If I Stay by Gayle Forman

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If I Stay #1
Pages: 201
Published: Apr 2009
Genres: YA, Romance, Contemporary

Goodreads Synopsis... 
Just listen, Adam says with a voice that sounds like shrapnel.

I open my eyes wide now.
I sit up as much as I can.
And I listen.

Stay, he says.

Choices. Seventeen-year-old Mia is faced with some tough ones: Stay true to her first love—music—even if it means losing her boyfriend and leaving her family and friends behind?

Then one February morning Mia goes for a drive with her family, and in an instant, everything changes. Suddenly, all the choices are gone, except one. And it's the only one that matters.

Review...
I feel like this book is a stained glass window. At first you look at the picture made up of little pieces of coloured glass, and the picture they make up is beautiful. You are just starting to look at all the different parts when BAM!!! Gayle Forman takes a baseball bat to the window, sending shards of glass flying your way. Then she starts putting the pieces back together. You just stand there with blood dripping from your wounds, because you have no other choice. You must see that window again.

Mia's family was my favourite thing about this book. They made me love them. Yes, they made me. I had no choice. The laughter, the sarcasm, the cute adorable little brother. All shown through flashbacks, made me fall in love with Denny, Kat, Teddy, Kim, and Adam (because Kim and Adam are part of the family too!)

The other thing that made me fall in love with them, was the writing. It was so honest, and detailed in the perfect moments. Yes there were flaws, and things could have been smoothed out a little bit more. But this story, this family, and the love that burst from them. As softly as cello chords, and as loudly as a rock concert was so real, and so heartbreaking. That those flaws meant little to me.

4.5/5

Book Review: Allegiant by Veronica Roth

*This is the third and final book in a series. If you haven't read Divergent and Insurgent. Then don't read this review as there are spoilers. 

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Final book in the Divergent series.  
Pages: 526
Published: Oct 2013
Genres: YA, Dystopian, Romance

Goodreads Synopsis... 
The faction-based society that Tris Prior once believed in is shattered—fractured by violence and power struggles and scarred by loss and betrayal. So when offered a chance to explore the world past the limits she’s known, Tris is ready. Perhaps beyond the fence, she and Tobias will find a simple new life together, free from complicated lies, tangled loyalties, and painful memories.

But Tris’s new reality is even more alarming than the one she left behind. Old discoveries are quickly rendered meaningless. Explosive new truths change the hearts of those she loves. And once again, Tris must battle to comprehend the complexities of human nature—and of herself—while facing impossible choices about courage, allegiance, sacrifice, and love.
 
Review...
One of my favourite things about Divergent and Insurgent, is that there was so much action. Things kept happening and it was so fast paced, and fun to read. So I should have known that for the last book in this series. The author would take away all my favourite things, and give me somewhat whiny Tobias perspectives in return.

Dont get me wrong, I actually liked the book. I very much enjoyed Roth's writing style. It also explained everything, giving answers to all my questions. The relationship between Tris and Four also got more complicated, and it was interesting to see their struggle. Both with their relationship and as individuals. There was a real effort to make things and reactions realistic and honest, and I did appreciate that.

However there were many things that made me dislike this book. Firstly I found Four to be really different then he was in previous books. This may be because we got chapters from his perspective, but it still felt strange. Also I felt like the relationship between Tris and Four was sometimes a bit cheesy, and uncomfortable. Some of the things they did and thought, really surprised me.

Up until around the 400 page mark, everything felt very drawn out. The plot was predictable, and there was very little action. I had to push myself to read on, which is the opposite of how I felt reading Divergent. It was also sometimes hard to distinguish which perspective I was reading, because they weren't distinctive or different enough.

Another complaint I have is that I felt we saw very little of the side characters. They seemed really interesting but only made quick appearances in what was basically the 'Tris and Four Show'. And let me tell you, I changed the channel often.

One thing I am happy about is the end. It was where things finally picked up, and got interesting. I felt somewhat content finishing the book, and was happy with most of the events leading up to the very end. Even the one that some people are incredible mad about, and many have been spoiled about.

All in all, I'm disappointed with the book as a whole. But I did like it, and was happy with how the series ended. 

3/5 

Book Review: An Abundance of Katherines by John Green

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Pages: 229
Published:Sep 2006
Genres: Young Adult, Contemporary

Goodreads Synopsis...
Katherine V thought boys were gross
Katherine X just wanted to be friends
Katherine XVIII dumped him in an e-mail
K-19 broke his heart
When it comes to relationships, Colin Singleton's type happens to be girls named Katherine. And when it comes to girls named Katherine, Colin is always getting dumped. Nineteen times, to be exact.

On a road trip miles from home, this anagram-happy, washed-up child prodigy has ten thousand dollars in his pocket, a bloodthirsty feral hog on his trail, and an overweight, Judge Judy-loving best friend riding shotgun--but no Katherines. Colin is on a mission to prove The Theorem of Underlying Katherine Predictability, which he hopes will predict the future of any relationship, avenge Dumpees everywhere, and finally win him the girl. Love, friendship, and a dead Austro-Hungarian archduke add up to surprising and heart-changing conclusions in this ingeniously layered comic novel about reinventing oneself.

Review...   
I took two days to read this book. It just so happens that there's a 5 month gap between those days.

This is a John Green book, which I've come to find means certain things. Which by all means can be found in this book:
-There is something very authenticly teenager about his writing. The thoughts characters have, the discoveries that might be simple, but change everything. Remind me so much of when I was a teenager. (Not that it was that long ago)
-Along with that authenticity comes intelligence, espcially in this book about a prodigy who aims to be a genius. The author doesn't dumb down the characters, infact he showcases their wit and intellegence, and best of all their sarcasm!  -The beauty is in the details. You can easily tell that a lot of work went into this book. The arabic, the anagrams, the footnotes and all the maths. As well as this, all the little quirks and small things. That are put together to make a beautifully detailed story. That has complicated and unique characters.

My main problem with this book, is I didn't get much out of it. I didn't love the characters, the plot felt aimless, and the themes didn't speak to me. I enjoyed reading it, but didn't miss it or feel the need to read it over my 5 month gap. I just sort of felt detached from what was a really well written story.

This is my third John Green book, and it is my least favorite so far. Thats not to say that I didnt like it. I just didnt care that much. Still, Im looking forward to reading Paper Towns.

3/5

Book Review: The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey

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Pages: 423
Published: Feb 2012
Genres: Fairytale Retelling, Fantasy, Magical Realism

Goodreads Synopsis... 
Alaska, 1920: a brutal place to homestead, and especially tough for recent arrivals Jack and Mabel. Childless, they are drifting apart--he struggling to maintain the farm; she crumbling from loneliness and despair. In a moment of levity during the first snowfall, they build a child out of snow. The next morning the snow child is gone--but they glimpse a young girl running through the trees. 

This little girl, who calls herself Faina, seems to be a child of the woods. She hunts with a red fox at her side and somehow survives alone in the Alaskan wilderness. As Jack and Mabel come to understand this child who could have stepped from the pages of a fairy tale, they begin to love her as their own daughter. But in this beautiful, violent territory things are rarely as they appear, and what they eventually learn about Faina will transform them all.

Review...   
This book is magic. That's what I was thinking while reading it. I took a curious bite out of the poison apple, and I was in this land no longer. I was in Alaska, in the home of Jack and Mabel. I felt their quiet desperation, the wordless pain that laced every look.

The way that this couple was shown to me is by far my favourite thing about this book. Though the book often felt like a dream, their lives ruled by sadness was very clear. It was depicted in such a simple way. In the absence of things, of laughter, of noise, of children. The nothingness took up all the space and pressed against me. 

Then comes Faina, the snow child. Who fills this absence with a certain kind of magic. Whether it is a literal magic or just the magic of her presence, we are never quite sure. This is how she is portrayed throughout the book. As a mystery, something we can never quite grasp. Which adds immensely to the magical feeling of the snow child.

All of this is set in the diverse and often contrasting land of Alaska. Where it goes from shivering nights to sweat filled days. And where quiet mornings are interrupted by neighbours bursting with energy.

I woke somewhat abruptly from reading it. Wondering if I would ever know completely the mysteries of Faina. If her magic would ever be explained. Smiling at the sweet memory of Jack and Mabel. Wishing that I would fall asleep, so I could return back again.

The Snow Child made me an instant fan of Eowyn Ivey, and I look forward to what she has to offer next.

5/5

Book Review: The Giver by Lois Lowry

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Pages: 179
Published: Jan 1993
Genres: Children's, Classics, Dystopian

Goodreads Synopsis... 
Jonas' world is perfect. Everything is under control. There is no war or fear or pain. There are no choices. Every person is assigned a role in the Community. When Jonas turns twelve, he is singled out to receive special training from The Giver. The Giver alone holds the memories of the true pain and pleasure of life. Now, it is time for Jonas to receive the truth. There is no turning back.

Review...  
This book is like closing your eyes, and experiencing a memory you've never seen before. You know whats happening and you can feel the emotions that are brought out. But you just cant name them, explain them. Its on the tip of your tongue...

So instead of trying, Im just going to give you three reasons you should pick up The Giver.

1. It is not a fast paced dystopian, it is a journey into another world. One that seems perfect and oddly reasonable at first. But that surprises you with how different it is, and how little things can change everything.

2. One of my favourite themes is that to experience pleasure, we must endure pain. It is a lesson often repeated, but the simple way this book shows it, makes it mean more. Makes it striking in its tragic balance. 

3. The way the story is written is so simple, yet so hauntingly beautiful. There is an ambiguity that is present throughout the whole story, especially at the end. And I think this adds to the book. Its like being in a dream. Feeling the intense emotions from what is happening, and then waking only remembering how it felt. 

This was a beautiful book, and I look forward to reading it again in the future. And seeing what it has to say to me then.

4.5/5

Book Review: Seraphina by Rachel Hartman

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Seraphina #1
Pages: 512
Published: Jan 2012
Genres: YA, Fantasy, Mystery

Goodreads Synopsis... 
Four decades of peace have done little to ease the mistrust between humans and dragons in the kingdom of Goredd. Folding themselves into human shape, dragons attend court as ambassadors, and lend their rational, mathematical minds to universities as scholars and teachers. As the treaty's anniversary draws near, however, tensions are high.

Seraphina Dombegh has reason to fear both sides. An unusually gifted musician, she joins the court just as a member of the royal family is murdered—in suspiciously draconian fashion. Seraphina is drawn into the investigation, partnering with the captain of the Queen's Guard, the dangerously perceptive Prince Lucian Kiggs. While they begin to uncover hints of a sinister plot to destroy the peace, Seraphina struggles to protect her own secret, the secret behind her musical gift, one so terrible that its discovery could mean her very life.

Review... 
I was really sick when I picked up this book. And it wasnt just a little cold, it was me in bed, in pain thinking about dying (because I'm a melodramatic like that). I think its a huge testiment to this book, that while I was reading it, I forgot I was sick. I let go of everything except for Seraphina, and all the dragons! Oh I love me some dragons!

So lets start by talking about the dragons in this book. They were so different from the way dragons are usually depicted, in that they could turn themselves into a human form. This let you see so much more about what its like to be a dragon, and also added so much dimension to these characters.

All the characters really were pretty amazing. Seraphina, is an incredibly likeable protagonist. She is talented, smart and really interesting. I loved seeing the story through her eyes, and also through her head.

The other thing that made this story so captivating was the world. The way that Hartman describes this world is so detailed but not overbearing. Her prose is amazing to read, and her entire story is so well paced. I wanted to keep reading, but I never felt like I was rushed. Also the political and royal  aspects to this world were very interesting, and added so much to the story.

The only aspect of the book that wasnt completely appealing to me was the romance. It was a very small part of the story, the dragons taking most of the spotlight (as they should). I just wasn't feeling the romance, it felt a bit unnecessary and the chemistry was lacking.

All in all though, I loved this book, and cant wait for the next installment which comes out in March 2015. Let the waiting begin!

5/5

Book Review: Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

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Shatter me #1
Pages: 338
Published: Jan 2011
Genres: YA, Dystopian, Romance

Goodreads Synopsis... 
Juliette hasn’t touched anyone in exactly 264 days.

The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette’s touch is fatal. As long as she doesn’t hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don’t fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color.

The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war – and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she’s exactly what they need right now.

Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior

Review... 
You know in the tv show Friends. When Joey writes a letter to an adoption agency for Monica and Chandler. And he tries to sound smart, so he uses a thesaurus on every single word. Turning
"They're warm, nice people with big hearts." into "They're humid, pre-possessing homosapiens with full-sized aortic pumps?"

Yeah... That's kind of what Tahereh Mafi did here. Except instead of using synonyms she used metaphors. I think you can probably see the point Im trying to make. That sometimes, simpler is better. And in the case of this book, simpler would have been much better.

Thats not to say that some of her metaphors aren't amazing to read. "I spent my life folded between the pages of books.” There are more but I cant remember them right now.

However there are also many many ridiculous metaphors.
-"I’m a tangle of butterflies."
-"My eyelashes trip into my eyebrows; my jaw drops into my lap."
-"He says it with a small smile the size of Jupiter."
-“I always won­der about raindrops. I won­der about how they’re always falling down, trip­ping over their own feet, break­ing their legs and for­get­ting their para­chutes as they tum­ble right out of the sky toward an uncer­tain end.” 

If you can get past this style of writing, then you get to the actual story and the characters. The characters are stereotypical, and dull. But hey at least their really hot. The plot is predictable, as its basically a love triangle parading as a post-apocalyptic dystopian.

The only thing I liked about the book, was that it was relatively easy to read, and fast paced in the second half. Also there were some really amazing metaphors, hidden among the thousands of ridiculous ones.

Needless to say, I don't recommend this book. I will not be reading the next book in the series. And hopefully no one will ever wonder about raindrops in my presence again.

1.5/5

Book Review: Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell

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Pages: 328
Published: April 2012 
Genres: YA, Contemporary, Romance 

Goodreads Synopsis...
Set over the course of one school year in 1986, ELEANOR AND PARK is the story of two star-crossed misfits – smart enough to know that first love almost never lasts, but brave and desperate enough to try. When Eleanor meets Park, you’ll remember your own first love – and just how hard it pulled you under.

Review...
This book, and basically every book by Rainbow Rowell, has an enormous amount of hype surrounding it. So when I picked up this book, I had some high expectations. And let me say, all of them were met! I loved this book, it was even better than I was expecting, and is now definitely one of my favourite books this year.

This first thing to love about Eleanor & Park, is how unique everything about it is. The characters are flawed both mentally and physically (meaning they arent incredibly hot with piercing eyes). Which is basically unheard of in young adult books. The plot itself was unpredictable, and complicated by real human problems. This is a love story primarily, but it is so much more than that. Also how the romance begins and develops is so genuine and different.

The author takes what is cliche, flips it around and puts it in the real world. Still managing to make it interesting and fun to read. Another thing this Rowell does really well is balancing light and dark in the book. It was both good and bad to feel depressed and also elated while reading this book. 

This was such an amazing experience and such a privilege to read. I offer it to you with scarf covered wrists, singing its praises!

5/5

Book Reviews: The Vampire Academy Series

(them ugly covers are overflowing)

Vampire Academy Series...
1. Vampire Academy - 332 pages, published Jan 2007, my rating: 3.5/5
2. Frostbite - 327 pages, published March 2008, my rating: 4/5
3. Shadow Kiss - 443 pages, published Nov 2008, my rating: 4/5
4. Blood Promise - 503 pages, published Aug 2009, my rating: 4/5
5. Spirit Bound - 489 pages, published Jan 2010, my rating: 3.5/5
6. Last Sacrifice - 594 pages, published Dec 2010, my rating: 3/5

Goodreads Synopsis of the first book...
St. Vladimir’s Academy isn’t just any boarding school—it’s a hidden place where vampires are educated in the ways of magic and half-human teens train to protect them. Rose Hathaway is a Dhampir, a bodyguard for her best friend Lissa, a Moroi Vampire Princess. They’ve been on the run, but now they’re being dragged back to St. Vladimir’s—the very place where they’re most in danger...

Rose and Lissa become enmeshed in forbidden romance, the Academy’s ruthless social scene, and unspeakable nighttime rituals. But they must be careful lest the Strigoi—the world’s fiercest and most dangerous vampires—make Lissa one of them forever.

Things I liked about the series...
-The characters were probably my favourite thing in this series. Rose is such a different protagonist, she's strong and bad-ass, but also so strong willed and reckless. And I actually liked this about her, it added so much to her as a character that her faults were also her strengths. I also loved Christian, mainly because he is so similar to Rose, and he oozes sarcasm. Which is the only thing someone should be happy to be oozing.
-The setting, the dynamic of the school and vampires were really interesting to me as well. I enjoyed all the school drama to be honest, and also the fact that Lissa is a royal vampire. And getting to see what that means, and how it effects her.
-The books were all basically addictive. They were so much fun to read, and I couldn't stop.

Things I didn't like about the series...
-The constant re-capping that went on throughout the series. Every so often the author would re-explain something that had happened in a previous book. And she would do it in the most obvious and tedious way possible.
-One of the romances in the books really started to annoy me. I actually started out the books really loving and routing for these two characters to be together. But by the last two books, it had gone on long enough. I was just tired of this constantly being a thing, and I really really wanted it to stop.
-Rose and her lack of character development especially in the last two books also irritated me. At the start of the books she jumps into situations without thinking. Which is brave and endearing at first, but eventually I wanted her to use her brain a little more. Nope, apparently this was not meant to be. Yes she did grow, but it wasn't enough for me.

That is my review of the Vampire Academy series. I did really enjoy it, despite the negative things mentioned. And I will probably be reading the Bloodlines series spinoff, sometime in the future.

Book Review: Cress by Marissa Meyer

*This is the third book in a series. If you haven't read Cinder and Scarlet. Then don't read this review as there are spoilers.

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Book 3 in The Lunar Chronicles.  
Pages: 550
Published: Feb 2014
Genres: YA, Fantasy, Romance

Goodreads Synopsis... 
Rapunzel’s tower is a satellite. She can’t let down her hair—or her guard.

In this third book in the bestselling Lunar Chronicles series, Cinder and Captain Thorne are fugitives on the run, with Scarlet and Wolf in tow. Together, they’re plotting to overthrow Queen Levana and her army.

Their best hope lies with Cress, who has been trapped on a satellite since childhood with only her netscreens as company. All that screen time has made Cress an excellent hacker—unfortunately, she’s just received orders from Levana to track down Cinder and her handsome accomplice.

When a daring rescue goes awry, the group is separated. Cress finally has her freedom, but it comes at a high price. Meanwhile, Queen Levana will let nothing stop her marriage to Emperor Kai. Cress, Scarlet, and Cinder may not have signed up to save the world, but they may be the only ones who can.

Review...
I loved this book, which was to be expected because I loved the first two. Cress was just such a joy to read, its one of those books that just makes me happy while reading it, and sad when it ends. Its fast paced, action packed and full of romances I cant help but root for. 

The character Cress was smart, sweet, and so darn adorable. I loved seeing Scarlet and especially Cinder again. And all the characters were fun and interesting to hear about. It was also really interesting to be able to get some insight into Levana, and what she thinks. Im excited to delve deeper into her character in the next book.

The only negative things I have to say, is that I wanted more Cinder. I really enjoy the idea of each new book, introducing a new character. But I yearn for Cinder scenes. Her plot line is definitely the one that interests me the most, and her romance makes me happiest of all. As well as this, I felt like the romance in Cress, and the suggested one for Winter; that was touched on in this book. Are coming just a little bit too easily. It seems like everyone has a perfect match just waiting for them, which leaves the romances to simple and uncomplicated. And romance should and normally is very, very complicated.

I still really enjoyed the book, and the things I didn't like were negligible compared to how much fun it was to be caught up in this story and world. Now begins the wait for the final book Winter. And just like the Stark's I will recite constantly and fervently, that winter is coming! 

5/5

Book Review: Eon by Alison Goodman

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Dragoneye Reborn #1
Pages: 544
Published: Jan 2008
Genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Magic

Synopsis... 
This book is about Eon, who is a one of the candidates to becoming an apprentice for one of the 12 energy dragons. Using Dragon magic, and becoming a Dragoneye, is one of the highest positions in the land. But there are some obstacles in Eons way. Firstly that he is a cripple, trying to persuade everyone but more importantly a dragon that he is worthy of using dragon magic. Secondly that he is actually a girl, who has been pretending to be a boy for years. And if anyone finds out Eon is actually Eona, she will be killed, as females are forbidden to use dragon magic.

Review...
Let me just start off by saying... DRAGONS!!! I love dragons, and that was enough to get me to buy and read this book. But there are so many more reasons you should read Eon. First of all the suspense. I could not sit still reading this book, I was pacing and standing. And generally just all over the place waiting to see what would happen. Reading as fast as I could, but not skimming. 

Secondly the plot, and how unique and unpredictable it was. This is one of the reasons there was so much suspense. Because the plot was so unexpected, you never knew what was coming next. It was so refreshing to step out of the predictable and into the crazy amazing story that Eon is.

Along with a great plot, came very detailed and elaborate world building. I felt immersed in this world, not only because of the descriptions of the setting. But also because of the explanations of the culture and practices in this world. The culture and politics were so well thought out, and there were very few holes in this story and in its world building.

I definitely recommend this book, and just to reiterate. DRAGONS!

5/5