Showing posts with label young adult. Show all posts
Showing posts with label young adult. Show all posts

Tuesday, August 18, 2015

{REVIEW} 99 Days by Katie Cotugno

Title: 99 Days
Author: Katie Cotugno
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary
Rating: ★★ ish

Blurb from Goodreads: 

Day 1: Julia Donnelly eggs my house my first night back in Star Lake, and that’s how I know everyone still remembers everything—how I destroyed my relationship with Patrick the night everything happened with his brother, Gabe. How I wrecked their whole family. Now I’m serving out my summer like a jail sentence: Just ninety-nine days till I can leave for college, and be done.

Day 4: A nasty note on my windshield makes it clear Julia isn’t finished. I’m expecting a fight when someone taps me on the shoulder, but it’s just Gabe, home from college and actually happy to see me. “For what it’s worth, Molly Barlow,” he says, “I’m really glad you’re back.”


Day 12: Gabe got me to come to this party, and I’m actually having fun. I think he’s about to kiss me—and that’s when I see Patrick. My Patrick, who’s supposed to be clear across the country. My Patrick, who’s never going to forgive me.


My Reaction/Thoughts:

Okay this really upsets me. I wanted to love this book. I wanted this to be my new favorite contemp because it was a total cover buy for me. This book is so adorable there was no way the inside wasn't as adorable. Boy was I wrong. I thought this book was going to be about facing your mistakes and owning up to them...not about repeating them! I honestly felt so torn reading the entire book. I was loving it, but hating it at the same time. I admit I was completely addicted to the plot and had to finish it all in a day just so I could find out what happened next, but I can't say I am satisfied with the outcome. I get that it's realistic and all that jazz, but for this novel I just craved a little bit more

I hated how Molly completely broke Patrick. Twice. The second was completely his fault because he was a completely douchenozzle 75% of the time, but I was just so desparately rooting for him to get his crap together! But nope. I honestly thought he was playing some sick game with her. And as for Gabe? Oh my sweet, Gabe, poor baby. He was so sweet and didn't deserve to get his heart stomped on. If you can see from my GR updates, I was so frustrated that she wouldn't just tell Gabe what was going on when it was still innocent.

Patrick was the worst. Let's just let that be clear right now. This guy had me feeling the biggest case of whiplash I've ever felt. I didn't know whether I should love him or hate him. In the end, I was just annoyed. In all Molly's memories Patrick is such a little brat that you have to wonder how she stayed with him for so long. He was so moody and Molly was comfortable with their bubble that I felt like maybe it was a good thing she cheated on him with Gabe just so she got out of that clearly unhealthy relationship. However, I was rooting for them a little. I felt like Patrick and Molly had some unfinished business and maybe they needed this to get their crap together and finally fix what they both broke. But like I said, Patrick gave me whiplash. He was so hot and cold! I mean this is the guy that treated Molly so poorly and was the biggest a-hole all because he "was trying not to lose her" WHAT EVEN?!

Gabe, on the other hand, was a joy. I really don't think he did any wrong. Yes, he shouldn't have made Molly out to just be something he had to win. but his true intentions were there. That was evident from the beginning. I just loved Gabe. He was so patient with Molly and truly a sweetheart. I loved this cutie pie.

This is so difficult for me because I honestly don't know how I should be feeling. I don't hate this book, but I didn't love it at all either.

I really enjoyed the writing though. I found myself really enjoying the way Cotugno wrote scenes or depicted the way Molly was feeling because I knew exactly what she meant. I could feel it too.

I did enjoy how Molly finally stood up for herself! It was long overdue and I am so proud of her. There was no way she deserved all the crap she went through. It is a double standard for girls and it sucks. She isn't the only one that made a mistake and it's completely ridiculous that she would leave town a year ago and only come back to still be a victim of so much torment!

My biggest problem was all the cheating! SO MUCH CHEATING!

I mean Molly is totally screwed up. She spends all her time either thinking about Patrick while she's with Gabe and comparing the two or just thinking back to memories she spent with Patrick. Clearly this girl has no idea what she even wants or feels. I was so confused right along with her. But did we really have to repeat history, but switch the two brothers? I wanted to bang my book against the wall just so the characters would maybe get some sense! They made the dumbest decisions that I can't even remember how many times I rolled my eyes behind its sockets.


I don't know...This book had good writing, good characters regardless of their stupidity but it just kind of feel like we went in a complete circle. We ended where we started. However, a little bit more accepting and wiser on Molly's part, so I suppose that's all that matters.


Is it strange that I actually kind of want a sequel? I want more Gabe!


Saturday, August 8, 2015

{REVIEW} The Wrath & The Dawn by Renee Ahdieh

Title: The Wrath & The Dawn
Author: Renee Ahdieh
Series: The Wrath & The Dawn
Book: 1
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Retellings,
Rating: ★★★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:

A sumptuous and epically told love story inspired by A Thousand and One Nights

Every dawn brings horror to a different family in a land ruled by a killer. Khalid, the eighteen-year-old Caliph of Khorasan, takes a new bride each night only to have her executed at sunrise. So it is a suspicious surprise when sixteen-year-old Shahrzad volunteers to marry Khalid. But she does so with a clever plan to stay alive and exact revenge on the Caliph for the murder of her best friend and countless other girls. Shazi's wit and will, indeed, get her through to the dawn that no others have seen, but with a catch . . . she’s falling in love with the very boy who killed her dearest friend.


She discovers that the murderous boy-king is not all that he seems and neither are the deaths of so many girls. Shazi is determined to uncover the reason for the murders and to break the cycle once and for all.

My Reaction/Thoughts:

“Some things exist in our lives for but a brief moment. And we must let them go on to light another sky.” 

First of all, THAT ENDING KILLED ME.
Second of all, THIS BOOK KILLED ME.

I am honestly in shock that this a debut novel because of its pure perfection. I have not read a book that I have fall so immensely in love  and I am so glad I read this. This was phenomenal. I am in awe.

First of all, Ahdieh's writing is beyond words. The way she writes is with such ease and it flows like poetry. I was completely captivated by her words and her story. I seriously could not put this book down, nor did I want it to end. I just finished and I can already feel a book hangover coming until I get the sequel into my hands.

“She was a dangerous, dangerous girl. A plague. A Mountain of Adamant who tore the iron from ships, sinking them to their watery graves without a second thought. With a mere smile and a wrinkle of her nose.” 

What I really enjoyed about this book was the retelling of A Thousand  and One Nights. I have never heard of this story before but I was intrigued when I found out this was a retelling so I immediately how to do research before reading this book and I have to tell you, the way Ahdieh incorporates this story with the tale is just fantastic. I absolutely loved it. I was so enthrawed within the stories Shazi told Khalid and every story inside the novel in general. I felt like I was there. I could see everything so clearly and felt everything down to my toes. If that's not amazing writing then I don't know what is. Her world is absolutely gorgeous and captivating. I enjoyed this world and look forward to learn more about Khorasan and the magic within.

“So you would have me throw Shazi to the wolves?”
“Shazi?” Jalal’s grin widened. “Honestly, I pity the wolves.” 

Shahrzad was definitely my favorite character, aside from Khalid obviously, because of her "silve tongue" and strength. She was not afraid to speak her mind and would not bow down to anyone. She is determine to exact revenge on the one who killed her best friend but as her defenses are taken down she sees that Khalid is not all that he appears to be. She loves to deeply and it's what makes this love story between these two so epic

“It’s a fitting punishment for a monster. to want something so much—to hold it in your arms — and know beyond a doubt you will never deserve it.” 

On the other hand, Khalid was the epitome of perfection. I love him. He is ridden by his guilt and he holds the entire kingdom on his shoulders. He is the Caliph of Khorasan and just trying to do what he has to for his people, though with twisted and haunting consequences. He is so guarded and closed off that you just want to give this guy a hug which makes it more refreshing when you see Shazi finally get passed his closed doors. Seriously, this man is beautiful. His heart is beautiful and I just love him to pieces. He just earned himself a spot on my book boyfriend list, if not the book boyfriend. We all know that I have a weakness for royalty so...

“What are you doing to me, you plague of a girl?” he whispered.
“If I’m a plague, then you should keep your distance, unless you plan on being destroyed.” The weapons still in her grasp, she shoved against his chest.
“No.” His hands dropped to her waist. “Destroy me.” 

This book also has some great friendships. I loved Shazi's growing friendship with Despina (who is also a fantastic female character) and Jalal. Jalal also has an interesting relationship with Khalid because they are cousins and it's so sad to see Jalal try to get Khalid to open up to him even though he resists so greatly. I can't wait to see their relationship grow stronger as well.

Overall, this book was amazing. I am already looking forward to reading it again! I think it's definitely my new favorite book of 2015.

Enjoy my fangirling below ♡

Thursday, August 6, 2015

{REVIEW} Crystal Kingdom by Amanda Hocking

Title: Crystal Kingdom
Author: Amanda Hocking
Series: The Kanin Chronicles
Book: 3
Genre: Young Adult, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance
Rating: ★★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:

Cast out by her kingdom and far from home, she's the Kanin people's only hope.

Bryn Aven - unjustly charged with murder and treason - is on the run. The one person who can help is her greatest enemy, the enigmatic Konstantin Black. Konstantin is her only ally against those who have taken over her kingdom and threaten to destroy everything she holds dear. But can she trust him?


As Bryn fights to clear her name, the Kanin rulers’ darkest secrets are coming to light… and now the entire troll world is on the brink of war. Will it tear Bryn from Ridley Dresden, the only guy she’s ever loved? And can she join forces with Finn Holmes and the Trylle kingdom? One thing is certain: an epic battle is underway—and when it’s complete, nothing will ever be the same…

My Reaction/Thoughts:

*sigh* I feel empty inside. Literally empty. Hocking as ripped out my very heart and stomped on it repeatedly. I am devastated. This book really took me for a ride. I had no idea how I should feel while reading it so I was all over the place! It was so good! So good so good!


Bryn. Oh Bryn. My heart goes out to this girl. She is fantastic. I love her so much for learning how to love and really let her defenses down. She's built some really great friendships with so many people and she loves so greatly. In the beginning, she cares so much for people, but she puts herself and her career ambitions first. In Crystal Kingdom, you can really see her understanding what it means to sacrifice and love. She loves greatly. She loves so many people that I really was terrified it was going to be her downfall in this book. All that foreshadowing really had me scared to read. She really grew into this bads$$ warrior! I am so glad that she finally got her dream come true in the end of this book because she definitely deserved it.

Ridley. Poor Ridley. His one and only weakness is Bryn and boy did he pay the price. It was so sad to see him tortured and put through so much pain because of his love for Bryn. He holds his own and wants nothing more than to keep her safe so it was really hard to see him so cold and distant. My heart was breaking for him. In the end, I am happy with his ending as well. I want nothing but happiness for this gorgeous man.

I know I didn't really talk much about Bryn's friends Ember (Finn's sister from the Trylle trilogy) and Tilda or her parents or Kasper because I really don't even know what to say without spoiling too much. But these characters were great. I absolutely adored Tilda and her strength. This woman took out an Omte while pregnant! She really is terrifying if you make her mad, so don't. Ember is a good secondary as well, even though I didn't really connect to her much. I think this series had a lot of good secondary characters and I hate that this is the last I will see them. *tears*

Now guys, if you've read my previous posts you know I am in love with Konstantin. This book made me fall even deeper. I didn't stand a chance. This man pushed me over the ledge and made me fall deeper. I honestly hate that we didn't see him more in Ice Kissed but the fact that he was in pretty much the whole of this book really made my heart happy. I loved him. I really enjoyed his teasing and flirting with Bryn (even though she is oblivious and I could shake her). I loved his subtle confessions of affection and gah I LOVE HIM!!

Team Ridley vs. Team Konstantin. Honestly, I don't really think there is much of a competition because Bryn is head over the hills 100% in love with Ridley (as she should be), but I am sorry but I just loved Konstantin so freaking much! I found myself completely switching teams throughout the entire book! Every scene Bryn was with Ridley, I loved her with Ridley, but then K would come in and then made me go back to him and apologize for ever forgetting him. I honestly don't know which was actually the better choice for her because we don't really see Bryn develop intense feelings for K. However, I definitely saw some affection for him. She was starting to notice how handsome he was and he would continuously leave her whole body blushing. So we may never know what would have happened between them because of spoilers, but I think...nope I am not saying it was for the best because in my heart I am still not over it and I will stomp my foot in protest because of that ending. I am not happy (maybe a little because of everything else, but still not happy!)!!

AGH. I guess everything ended right where things were supposed to and the kingdom showed much promise. I really did like the twists that this book revealed because I was shocked and then immediately felt dumb for not connecting dots sooner, but where is the fun in that?! Overall, this series was great. I loved it! I can't say I loved it more than the Trylle trilogy because Wendy and Loki were definitely fantastic. Loki is bae ♡♡♡♡

Read it? Read it!

Enjoy all my freakout moments and fangirling below (:

{REVIEW} Ice Kissed by Amanda Hocking

Title: Ice Kissed
Author: Amanda Hocking
Series: The Kanin Chronicles
Book: 2
Genre: Young Adult, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance
Rating: ★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:

In the majestic halls of a crystal palace lies a secret that could destroy an entire kingdom…

Bryn Aven refuses to give up on her dream of serving the kingdom she loves. It’s a dream that brings her to a whole new realm…and the glittering palace of the Skojare.

The Skojare people need protection from the same brutal enemy that’s been threatening the Kanin, and Bryn is there to help. Being half Skojare herself, it’s also a chance for her to learn more about her lost heritage. Her boss, Ridley Dresden, is overseeing her mission, but as their undeniable attraction heats up, their relationship is about to reach a whole new level—one neither of them is prepared for.


As they delve deeper into the Skojare world, they begin to unravel a long-hidden secret. The dark truth about her own beloved Kanin kingdom is about to come to light, and it will change her place in it forever…and threaten everyone she loves.

My Reaction/Thoughts:

Ice Kissed, though entertaining, was definitely a filler book. I don't think much really happed plot wise to really make you feel engaged within the novel, but it did keep your attention because so much was unfolding within our eyes that I couldn't put it down. I was sucked into the world and what was going in within the kingdom. Hocking hooked me once again with her royal families and forbidden love. She really has a knack for that and I love and hate her for it.

There wasn't too much character development for me to note, Bryn was still the same old strong, dedicated Bryn, but she did grow up a little. She began to understand her friend Tilda's decisions to become a mother and wife, whereas in the beginning she felt those dreams were unheard of. I liked seeing a bit more understanding and humility within Bryn. We got to see her relationship with Ridley blossom a little bit more which was lovely. I will always love Ridley so I am not complaining. However, there was next to zero Konstantin! The level of Konstantin was seriously lacking. I needed more. And it was almost cruel for Hocking to end this book on the worst cliffhanger! Good thing I dragged my feet so long with reading this book that I only had to wait a week before Crystal Kingdom came out! Phew, did I dodge a bullet there!

Overall, this book was okay. I wasn't absolutely loving it, but I did have a good time. It raised more and more questions. but it kept the plot going along nicely, setting up a good finale.


{REVIEW} Frostfire by Amanda Hocking

Title: Frostfire
Author: Amanda Hocking
Series: The Kanin Chronicles
Book: 1
Genre: Young Adult, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance
Rating: ★★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:

Bryn Aven is an outcast among the Kanin, the most powerful of the troll tribes.

Set apart by her heritage and her past, Bryn is a tracker who's determined to become a respected part of her world. She has just one goal: become a member of the elite King’s Guard to protect the royal family. She's not going to let anything stand in her way, not even a forbidden romance with her boss Ridley Dresden.


But all her plans for the future are put on hold when Konstantin– a fallen hero she once loved – begins kidnapping changelings. Bryn is sent in to help stop him, but will she lose her heart in the process?

My Reaction/Thoughts:

Set in the world of the Trylle (Hocking's previous series), Hocking brings us the Kanin! I was so excited to read these books. In fact, Frostfire was one of my most anticipated reads of the year. I mean look at that cover! Is it not gorgeous?!

In Frostfire, we meet Bryn Aven. Bryn was such a great character to read. She was strong and determined, she's loyal, sarcastic at times, and so protective of her family and friends. I think that's what I loved most about her, her dedication. She was driven by her feeling of as an outsider to prove that she belonged to the Kanin tribe and the Hogdragen. Although Bryn can come off as a little know-it-all.

Another character I loved was Ridley Dresden. This mad was so cute and the chemistry just peels off the page when he and Bryn were together. You couldn't help but ship them because he was exactly what Bryn needed in her life. He knew how to talk to her, to help her see reason. He put perspective into her head and really understood her. I absolutely loved him.

However, there is one man who stole the show for me and his name was Konstantin Black. This man is just uber gorgeous, sexy, and I LOVED HIM! Not much was said about him besides that he was the most wanted man in the Kanin community and that he's been on the run for the past four years, but I think that's what made me loved him, his mystery. I wanted to know more. I craved to know more. I needed more! And it doesn't hurt that Amanda Hocking pictures Kit Harrington as Konstantin because if you know me you know I LOVE Kit Harrington!  I don't know what it was when I first read his encounter with Bryn, but I ship him so hard with Bryn. Their scenes together were so intense and had such chemistry it was distracting. I ship it! NO REGRETS.

As for the plot, it moved rather steadily. We follow Bryn as she begins to uncover secrets about her tribe and the Skojare. This book had a nice setup for the coming books and even though not a whole lot happened, it was still entertaining. The writing is simple to follow, easy, fun, and great. If you've read the Trylle trilogy, you must read these books.


Saturday, August 1, 2015

{REVIEW} The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkoski

Title: The Winner's Curse
Author: Marie Rutkoski
Series: The Winner's Trilogy
Book: 1
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Romance, Science Fiction
Rating: ★★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:

Winning what you want may cost you everything you love... 

As a general’s daughter in a vast empire that revels in war and enslaves those it conquers, seventeen-year-old Kestrel has two choices: she can join the military or get married. But Kestrel has other intentions.

One day, she is startled to find a kindred spirit in a young slave up for auction. Arin’s eyes seem to defy everything and everyone. Following her instinct, Kestrel buys him—with unexpected consequences. It’s not long before she has to hide her growing love for Arin.

But he, too, has a secret, and Kestrel quickly learns that the price she paid for a fellow human is much higher than she ever could have imagined.


Set in a richly imagined new world, The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkoski is a story of deadly games where everything is at stake, and the gamble is whether you will keep your head or lose your heart.

My Reaction/Thoughts:

“Isn't that what stories do, make real things fake, and fake things real?”

This book was a splendid surprise. I was instantly hooked right from the start, however it kind of lost me somewhere in the middle. The plot seemed to be headed nowhere fast and I had no idea where the overall story was headed. But I am happy with where we ended up. Boy, am I happy where we ended up! This book had a great cliffhanger ending that instantly hooked me all over again. I am intrigued by this world, these characters, and this society. It's unique and entertaining. I cannot wait to read the sequel.

“You might not think of me as your friend,' Kestrel told Arin, 'but I think of you as mine.”

The only thing that really bothered me with this book was the characters. Well particularly, Arin. I did not like him at all in the beginning. He was so cold and such a jerk! I hated the way he would talk to Kestrel and how rude he was. She tried to be nothing, but nice to him and he acted so ungrateful. Then when he was ready to be open to her and let her in, his "feelings" seemed a little out of nowhere. I enjoyed watching their slow progress to a connection and affection, but it just felt a little unbelievable that he cared as deeply as he claimed he did considering how cold he'd been. However, he really did redeem himself at the end and made me learn to love him. So I am now on board the Kestrel x Arin ship. LET IT SAIL!

Kestrel was a good character though. She was sweet and strong in her own might. She was still learning about herself and trying to figure out what she wanted out of her life. She hates that she only has two options and longs to find her third path. I look forward to reading more of her journey and see where her road leads.

The writing of this book was easy to understand and I didn't feel overwhelmed. The world building could use some more details so I really know what is going on here, but I kind of liked how we see a bit more of the political side. We saw a rebellion strike right away in book one and that's a nice change. I can't wait to see what happens next!

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It was fun and entertaining. Regardless of my very small issues, I loved it. And the whole format of the book was fantastic. I loved the deckled pages and the sideways chapter headings, as well as the BEAUTIFUL cover and font. Whoever designed this book is a genius.



{REVIEW} Jesse's Girl by Miranda Kenneally

Title: Jesse's Girl
Author: Miranda Kenneally
Series: Hundred Oaks
Book: 6
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Rating: ★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:

Practice Makes Perfect.

Everyone at Hundred Oaks High knows that career mentoring day is a joke. So when Maya Henry said she wanted to be a rock star, she never imagined she’d get to shadow *the* Jesse Scott, Nashville’s teen idol.


But spending the day with Jesse is far from a dream come true. He’s as gorgeous as his music, but seeing all that he’s accomplished is just a reminder of everything Maya’s lost: her trust, her boyfriend, their band, and any chance to play the music she craves. Not to mention that Jesse’s pushy and opinionated. He made it on his own, and he thinks Maya’s playing back up to other people’s dreams. Does she have what it takes to follow her heart—and go solo?

My Reaction/Thoughts:

The only reason I decided to pick this book up was because of the title. Yes, Jesse's Girl like the song. Plus it sounded really cute. Each chapter was titled after a popular song as well so I thought that was really clever. However, I never read a book in the Hundred Oaks series before and I was a little hesitant, but being the rebel that I am...why not?

I really enjoyed the plot even though it was really simple. I liked that we saw Jesse and Maya's friendship/relationship grow. It was cute, but steady and based upon their connection to music and feeling like an outcast. It wasn't just purely on attraction or instalove— which I hate!But, it was entertaining and had its adorable moments. However, on the other hand I did feel like it was a little flat. I didn't get very much out of it. I just watched these two characters fall in love and both give the other the confidence he/she needed to go after their dreams. Unfortunately, that's all that it was. There was no big conflict or climax. I felt like the high point of this book was "Will They Or Won't They? and once they became a couple, that was it. It plateaued. I still enjoyed it, but I wanted more. I expected more.

In addition, the characters were  a little typical. There was nothing special about them. Nothing I really took away from the story that makes me satisfied with the story. I didn't connect to the characters too much like I'd like and that bums me out a bit. Maybe I just needed to read more from Kenneally or the Hundred Oaks series to really connect so I take the blame for that one.

Overall, it was still an entertaining book and it was what I needed to read after all the fantasy books I've been reading. Cute, sweet, and fun.



Side Note: At the end of the book the author provides a playlist labeled "Jesse's Playlist" with a bunch of 80s songs and whatnot. Many of these songs were from bands that Maya and Jesse enjoyed and talked about in the book, but what I find ironic is how there is not one single Queen song. Maya named her Twitter handle QueenQueen after her love for Queen! She sings Queen during multiple audtions/performances and there is not one Queen song on this so called "playlist"? That's weird.


I'll leave you with this to get stuck in your head (:

Happy reading!

Saturday, July 11, 2015

{REVIEW} HEX: Saxton Academy by Mackenzie McGuire

Title: HEX
Author: Mackenzie L. McGuire
Series: Saxton Academy Series
Book: 1
Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal, Fantasy
Rating: ★★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:

I’m Reece. A month ago I died along with my two best friends in a car crash. Obviously, my death didn't last long. Since then, I hear voices and the nightmares – don’t even get me started. I just wanted to be normal. That meant leaving my lux L.A. life for the gothic, and icy, Saxton Academy in the mountains of Vermont. Away from the tabloids, I had a plan to get my life together. But that just isn't possible. Thanks to hotties Eli McKinnon and Carden McDowell I discovered my life is a lie. They want to help me reach my potential. I just want to be a regular girl. But darkness is coming, and if I want to stay alive, I may not have a choice.

My Reaction/Thoughts:

*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange of a review*

HOLY GUACAMOLE!

This book was fantastic! It is marked as a lighter YA novel with old school YA tones and I have to say that is 100% accurate. It was very reminiscent of some of the first YA novels that turned me onto avid reading and I was feeling a little nostalgic. I absolutely loved it. HEX is a light, easy, fun read and I enjoyed myself. I could not put it down. I found myself flying threw the pages in desperate need to find out what would happen next. This book leaves off with a load of unanswered questions, but it also leaves open a door for a great series to come. It has great potential and I cannot wait to read more!

What I really enjoyed were the characters. They were all unique in their own way and I loved each and every one of them. I found Reece's voice to be quite entertaining. I loved her wit and sarcasm. I felt like she was easy to relate to and her little snarky comments were a riot to read. I was amazed by her strength and her willingness to move forward. She went through a huge tragedy, but yet was determined to put her life back together and just be a normal teenage girl. The fact that she was able to make light of situations and just be spunky was refreshing. She doesn't just mope around and pity herself or her life like so many other female characters do in other YA novels. She uses her friends to find strength. This is important for her. She wants to belong. She needs to belong.

Speaking of friends, how fabulous is Tuesday?! This girl is the very picture of a girl that you want as your best friend. She is just as spunky as Reece, but she's so much more. She is smart, she is kind, she is loyal, and kind of a genius. Who else can write their own video game code right at the cafe lunch table?

As for the boys...well hot dang. Those boys were flawless. I don't think it's very fair to give us two boys to swoon over, but I'll take it!

Carden McDowell is such a cute teddy bear that I wanted to squeeze every time I was scared. I loved how he was always there to comfort Reece. I can't wait to see more of Carden in the future because I definitely didn't get enough!

Eli McKinnon, oh boy.
This boy is gorgeous, caring, loving, protective, and all around swoon-worthy. I absolutely loved him!

As for the romance, I felt it moved rather quickly. However, the fact that their magic energies are what connects them is really interesting so I am just rolling with it. I think that makes it a little bit more exciting and it will be interesting to see how this progresses. Or maybe what trouble it may cause for the coven, who knows?

The magic was very easy to understand in this book. It wasn't overly complicated and I was able to follow along perfectly. I really liked that because it didn't take me out of the novel. I felt like I was learning everything just as Reece was. I would have liked to see more of the magic aspect and learn what everyone can really do with their individual gifts, but I suspect that to come in the future.

Overall, I am so glad I read this novel. The writing flowed effortlessly and made the world building quite easy to understand. It was fast, it was fun, it was easy and I can't wait to read more.

If you're looking for fun, light paranormal read, this book is 100% for you.

Thank you so much Mackenzie McGuire for this opportunity and look forward to reading more of your work in the future! ♥



You can purchase your copy of HEX: Saxton Academy at here:
[Kindle eBook] [Amazon]

Thursday, June 25, 2015

{REVIEW} Emerald Green by Kerstin Gier

Title: Emerald Green
Author: Kerstin Gier
Series: Precious Stone Trilogy
Book: 3
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance 
Rating: 

Blurb from Goodreads: 

Gwen has a destiny to fulfill, but no one will tell her what it is. She’s only recently learned that she is the Ruby, the final member of the time-traveling Circle of Twelve, and since then nothing has been going right. She suspects the founder of the Circle, Count Saint-German, is up to something nefarious, but nobody will believe her. And she’s just learned that her charming time-traveling partner, Gideon, has probably been using her all along. Emerald Green is the stunning conclusion to Kerstin Gier's Ruby Red Trilogy, picking up where Sapphire Blue left off, reaching new heights of intrigue and romance as Gwen finally uncovers the secrets of the time-traveling society and learns her fate. 

My Reaction/Thoughts: 

Oh this was just as much fun!! I had a lot of fun reading this series and I can't believe it's over already! This book was filled with even more fun time traveling and fancy dresses and mysteries. I am so glad we finally got some answers though because the suspense was killing me! Though it was a tad predictable because all my theories were correct. However! I'm so glad there was a twist that I did not see coming concerning the count! I found the whole storyline with him to be so interesting, though a bit confusing at times because I don't quite understand all the scientific principles that go into time travel. But nevertheless, I had fun! 

The plot really pulled through with this installment. There were twists and turn and a much more satisfying climax then the previous two novels. We got a lot of answers to those prophesies that seemed rather simple if you ask me so I really don't know how Gwen and company really didn't put two and two together sooner. However, the "magic of the raven" was surprising and I was shocked to learn of what Lucy and Paul had planned for Gideon. IT MAKES ME SO HAPPY! I love happy endings! 

I am beyond excited that Gideon finally admitted his feelings for Gwen and we were able to see some cute scenes with Gwen and Gideon. I was so frustrated the first 100 pages or so that Gwen was avoiding Gideon like the plague because she was so hurt! But it's okay because we got a whole lot of cute! I am more than satisfied!! 

Gwen stayed the silly, snarky girl that I loved since Ruby Red and I am glad of it. I am glad that she was a little sassy and didn't back down to anyone. I enjoyed her more in the book and Lesley as well. I loved seeing how many people cared about Gwen and wanted to help her. Even Xemerius was looking out for her best interests and wanted to stay by her side when she was scared. He was still the cute little riot that I love. I enjoyed his snarky comments and how much he looked after Gwen. I especially loved how Mr. Bernard helped Gwen out and worked to keep Charlotte from snooping around Gwen's room. (Now we know why after that prologue!)

Speaking of the prologue...OMG! I LOVED IT! It is so touching to see Lucy and Paul get their happily ever after and their relationship with Gwen grow! *happy sighs*
The philosopher's stone just reminded me so much of Harry Potter so I knew right away that the evil count just wanted to make himself immortal. I wondered if why only Gwen had a prophesy that was spoken of and not the other travellers? Were they not as important? Was their only role to provide their blood to the chronograph? It would have been nice to get to know a little bit about them as well, but that's just me being greedy I guess.  I do wish these book were a bit longer so that I could have learned more, but alas I'll take what I am given. 

I recommend this series over and over. It's so easy to read and such a fun time. I do admit I got a little confused here and there, but I just went with the flow and everything made sense in due time. It's worth the read.

Happy reading!


Wednesday, June 24, 2015

{REVIEW} Sapphire Blue by Kerstin Gier

Title: Sapphire Blue
Author: Kerstin Gier
Series: Precious Stone trilogy
Book: 2
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
Rating: ★★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:

Gwen’s life has been a rollercoaster since she discovered she was the Ruby, the final member of the secret time-traveling Circle of Twelve. In between searching through history for the other time-travelers and asking for a bit of their blood (gross!), she’s been trying to figure out what all the mysteries and prophecies surrounding the Circle really mean.


At least Gwen has plenty of help. Her best friend Lesley follows every lead diligently on the Internet. James the ghost teaches Gwen how to fit in at an eighteenth century party. And Xemerius, the gargoyle demon who has been following Gwen since he caught her kissing Gideon in a church, offers advice on everything. Oh, yes. And of course there is Gideon, the Diamond. One minute he’s very warm indeed; the next he’s freezing cold. Gwen’s not sure what’s going on there, but she’s pretty much destined to find out.

My Reaction/Thoughts:

This book was even better! Although rather frustrating to no end! I didn't get any of my questions answered, but instead gained even more! Gwen is still trying to learn more about her special gene that allows her to time travel and what role she plays specifically in "closing the Circle." However, no one still won't tell her a single thing!They expect to just do what she's told and not ask any questions. Um, I'm sorry but that's just don't work for me! I am just waiting for her to elapse into a time where she can run into Paul and Lucy so hopefully they can answer her questions because I am getting rather annoyed! However, I still had a load of fun reading this! I enjoyed all the kissing between Gideon and Gwen!! Oooh la la!

I think my new favorite character that was introduced in this book was the little gargoyle Xemerius that follows Gwen around. This little guy is an absolute riot! I loved all his commentary he would give about Gwen's friends, especially about Charlotte and Gideon. He was so fun and added a good amount of comedic relief. 

Speaking of Charlotte. OMG. Can Gwen just shut her down already?! I cannot wait until she gets her piece of karma. This girl is the absolute worst! I hate the way she talks to Gwen and what she says about her! She is so full of herself and I just wish she would go away. I could not believe she would go talk so ill about Gwen to Gideon! As if that would made Gideon not like Gwen any less. Charlotte is so immature and it's rather cute how she thinks she is above everyone else. Oh sweetie, you're delusional.

Gideon, however, oh dear Lord. This book can stop giving me whiplash anyday now! He runs so hot and cold that I think Katy Perry wrote her song with him in mind! Gideon is really making it hard to love him, but I shall anyhow! I really wish he would stop spending so much time with Charlotte though because he's just feeding her ego! Bleh!
I wanted to scream so much when we finally get a declaration of love from Gideon only to have the stupid count tell Gwen that females are easier to control when they are in love with you so Gideon was just manipulating her (not that he had to use much effort) UGH!


What I really liked about this book and I hope I see more in Emerald Green are the scenes where Gwen elapsed and saw her grandfather when he was younger. I thought this was so touching considering he's dead in the present and she didn't get to see him as much. I loved that he is there to help her. It's so cute. I loved how at the end of one of their times together Gwen tells him to save his awful mustache because it really doesn't suit him well. hahaha awe! *hugs self* 

I love the direction the story is going though. We are finally getting somewhere. We learn a little about the Florentine Alliance and its rivalry with the creepy Count Saint-Germain. I am looking forward to learning more about the prophesies surrounding Gwen and Gideon and what is exactly going to happen when the Circle closes. I have my theories, but I shall see once I read the last book! I can't believe I was skeptical to read these books because they are great! I am having so much fun and I'll say if you are doubting whether you should read them yourself to go ahead and just do it! Give them a chance! 

Now I am off to punch Gideon if he doesn't tell Gwen he loves her! 

{REVIEW} Ruby Red by Kerstin Gier

Title: Ruby Red
Author: Kerstin Gier
Series: Precious Stony Trilogy
Book: 1
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
Rating: ★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:

Gwyneth Shepherd's sophisticated, beautiful cousin Charlotte has been prepared her entire life for traveling through time. But unexpectedly, it is Gwyneth, who in the middle of class takes a sudden spin to a different era!


Gwyneth must now unearth the mystery of why her mother would lie about her birth date to ward off suspicion about her ability, brush up on her history, and work with Gideon--the time traveler from a similarly gifted family that passes the gene through its male line, and whose presence becomes, in time, less insufferable and more essential. Together, Gwyneth and Gideon journey through time to discover who, in the 18th century and in contemporary London, they can trust.

My Reaction/Thoughts:

I thought this was a really fun book to read. It's fairly simple to read and easy to get into. At first it can be a bit slow, but that is too be expected because so much information is thrown at you and we are learning everything just as Gwen is learning (whilst annoyingly being kept in the dark!) But I had a lot of fun reading this. I didn't think I would just because I wasn't too sold on the whole concept of time-travel, but I have to admit that I am so interested and can't get enough of this story. I love that these books are translated from German as well. I don't think I really ever read a book that translated to English before? At least in Young Adult. So I just find that so fascinating!

The plot was really entertaining and I enjoyed myself. I started to feel badly for poor Gwen when everyone just kept putting her down all the time! It's not her fault she wasn't properly trained! No one can be as annoyingly perfect as the wretched Charlotte! I think Gwen did rather well considering she was learning how to talk and act in the eighteenth century in a matter of days! It definitely made me realize how much more work it would be to actually time travel. However, this book was so short! I felt like it went by so fast and so little happened and right as I was really getting into it IT ENDED!

And can we just talk about that epilogue?!
The romance: it's seriously lacking in this book. I know Gideon and Gwen just met a few days ago, but if I have to suffer through more scenes of Gideon with Charlotte I might scream. I can't stand it! I don't want it! Give me Gideon and Gwen now! Please!!

Overall, this book was a lot of fun. It was simple, quick, and quite entertaining. I can't wait to find out more about Lucy and Paul more about Gwen because questions! So many questions!

Thursday, June 4, 2015

{REVIEW} Blue Lily, Lily Blue by Maggie Stiefvater

Title: Blue Lily, Lily Blue
Author: Maggie Stiefvater
Series: The Raven Cycle
Book: 3
Genre: Young Adult, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal
Rating: ★★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:

There is danger in dreaming. But there is even more danger in waking up.

Blue Sargent has found things. For the first time in her life, she has friends she can trust, a group to which she can belong. The Raven Boys have taken her in as one of their own. Their problems have become hers, and her problems have become theirs.

The trick with found things though, is how easily they can be lost.

Friends can betray.
Mothers can disappear.
Visions can mislead.

Certainties can unravel.

My Reaction/Thoughts:

I didn't think it was possible to have an even more beautiful cover, but behold Blue Lily, Lily Blue!

This was was easier for me to read and I don't exactly know why. I didn't find myself skimming and wanting to rush the book because I was actually invested and looking forward to reading it. Something just finally clicked I suppose. However, the writing! Gah I am still not a fan and I have just come to the conclusion that I never will be. I love the plot and the characters, but I just can't get into the writing. Stiefvater has a verbose style and it takes me out of the story sometimes. For example:
Blue was glad that it was dead and then felt bad that she felt glad that it was dead.
 Way too many words and repetitive. I just don't care for it. She does this frequently throughout the book and it can be simplified. But, I pushed through and I glad I did because the plots are really what is carrying me forward. They are unique and so interesting.

Blue was still a little sassy lily and I loved her.
Ronan was a sarcastic little jerk and I fell in love with him even more.
Gansey is so adorable and I just want to hug him tight.
Adam...I still sometimes want to slap sometimes, but this book it decreased to 40% of the time. Progress!

Gansey and Blue need to happen like, yesterday.
Ronan and Adam: I ship it.


I just loved the little hand touching between Gansey and Blue when no was looking. Oh! And their late night phone calls to talk about the most random things. Or the way Gansey would stay awake just to hear Blue talk to him. ♥♥♥
Even Ronan and Adam had some simple, but sweet moments that had me giggling. It's so sweet how Adam is aware of Ronan's crush on him and it makes him see how he is worthy of someone wanting him, and not just anyone...Ronan Lynch. I want them. I need it. Ronan is seriously the best character and I love his sass.

“I’m going in,” Gansey said as Ronan sat down on the step beside Adam. As Gansey shut the door behind him, he heard Adam say, “I don’t want to talk,” and Ronan reply, “The fuck would I talk about?” 

Oh! Oh! And Mr. Gray! Oh Mr. Gray! He is so in love with Maura and adorable. I loved how he just made himself comfortable being around 300 Fox Way (speaking of, I hate how frequently Stiefvater says 300 Fox Way. Can't we just say Blue's house? Or home?) I love how comfortable Blue feels around him and has grown attached to him. Especially at the end when they were in that cavern. Awe!

I cannot wait to read the last book because we have so much hype between these three books focusing on finding Glendower and now we have to finally find him! It's been a rough journey, but we are getting there! I cannot wait! We got so close and still have to wait another book! Gah!

And can we talk about that CLIFFHANGER! WHAT THE HECK WAS THAT?!
 I NEED ANSWERS! I NEED THE RAVEN KING NOW!

Saturday, May 30, 2015

{REVIEW} P.S. I Still Love You by Jenny Han

Title: P.S. I Still Love You
Author: Jenny Han
Series: To All The Boys I've Loved Before
Book: 2
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Rating: ★★★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:

Lara Jean didn’t expect to really fall for Peter.
She and Peter were just pretending. Except suddenly they weren’t. Now Lara Jean is more confused than ever.
When another boy from her past returns to her life, Lara Jean’s feelings for him return too. Can a girl be in love with two boys at once?

My Reaction/Thoughts:

“People come in and out of your life. For a time they are your world; they are everything. And then one day they’re not. There’s no telling how long you will have them near.” 

This book was so wonderful! It was everything I hoped it would be. Well it was seriously lacking some more Peter K, but I will forgive you, Jenny Han, because that ending seriously gave me so many feels that I just can't...

“So I take Peter’s hand; I put it on my heart. I tell him, “You have to take good care of this, because it’s yours.” 

I can't explain enough how much I seriously love this series. It paints such a vivid picture deep first love, betrayal, heartbreak, and daring to love again. I absolutely love it!

“I know now that I don’t want to love or be loved in half measures. I want it all, and to have it all, you have to risk it all.”

  I adore Lara Jean and Peter and Kitty and John even made me love him! I do admit I missed Josh, but I understand why he was missing. I think this book needed way more Peter and Lara Jean because I am greedy and needy so I can't say that I enjoyed this more than the first book, but I did enjoy the ride. I loved all our new characters and the new romance that John brought — even though he was seriously blowing holes in my ship. But my favorite part of this book was definitely Lara Jean. I know many people are bothered by her because she is a classic sixteen year old girl worrying about the most mundane things and is naive, but what sixteen girl isn't? I know I was. I know I worried about the dumbest things and wouldn't get over it until they just ate me alive. But that's what I loved about her. She realized what was important in the end and was mature. She such a classic girly girl too. This girl would curl her hair when she was upset so she could think and I loved that. I did silly things like this when I was younger too. I could just relate to her so much and I felt a little nostalgic reading from her. She showed a nice dose of character development. She didn't fuss over things too long with Peter and was able to move on so they could enjoy being together and I think their relationship was great. Although it really bothered me that he spent so much time with Gen. I mean really he was with her more than he was with LJ! I WANT MORE PK AND LJ FEELS! And then we just see them start to fight more and more and then the break up! UGH!!!! 

Then Jenny Han brings in the lost letter from the first book and John Ambrose McClaren...
Oh John, he was quite a sweetie pie and I'd be lying if I didn't say I had to root for him a little bit, but my heart belongs to Peter Kavinsky, Sorry, Johnny. 
However, who didn't swwon when we saw him in that uniform driving that red convertible? 
John was just so sweet to Lara too. I loved their effortless chemistry and the way they just seemed to understand each other. It just wasn't the right time — which makes it more realistic. 

I think I laughed so hard at all the wonderful scenes with Stormy. That woman was a riot! And kudos for Miss Han for bringing in the feminist debate, LOL.

“I had no idea you were such a feminist,” I say. 
“Feminist?” Stormy makes a disgusted sound in her throat. “I’m no feminist. Really, Lara Jean!” 
“Stormy, don’t get worked up about it. All it means is that you believe men and women are equal, and should have equal rights.” 
“I don’t think any man is my equal. Women are far superior, and don’t you forget it. Don’t forget any of the things I just told you.” 

All in all, I loved this book. I loved it so much and I can't believe I finished it in a day. I hated that we didn't get to see more of Peter and LJ and that she spent more time away from him than with him, but that ending more than made up for it. That ending was everything! That ending is why I couldn't bring myself to give it anything less than five stars. 

I am just going to swim around in my feels now. 



Friday, May 29, 2015

{REVIEW} The Dream Thieves by Maggie Stiefvater

Title: The Dream Thieves
Author: Maggie Stiefvater
Series: The Raven Cycle
Book: 2
Genre: Young Adult, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal
Rating: ★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:

If you could steal things from dreams, what would you take?

Ronan Lynch has secrets. Some he keeps form others. Some he keeps from himself.

One secret: Ronan can bring things out of his dreams.

And sometimes he's not the only one who wants those things.


Ronan is one of the raven boys—a group of friends, practically brothers, searching for a dead king named Glendower, who they think is hidden somewhere in the hills by their elite private school, Aglionby Academy. The path to Glendower has long lived as an undercurrent beneath town. But now, like Ronan's secrets, it is beginning to rise to the surface—changing everything in its wake.

My Reaction/Thoughts:

HOW IS IT POSSIBLE THAT THIS COVER IS EVEN MORE BEAUTIFUL?! RONAN! THE RAVENS! GLORIOUS

The Dream Thieves and I had a rough start. I was well over halfway through the book and I wasn't connecting the way I thought I would. I didn't want to judge it too harshly after not really loving The Raven Boys because that was the first book and I felt that definitely suffered from First Book Syndrome. So I went in completely expecting to love Thieves. While I did enjoy it a lot more than the first book, it did take me awhile. The thing I loved about this book was simply because it focused on Ronan figuring how who he was and get a grasp on his supernatural powers and how that releates to his family's history. I thought the plot was really a step up and I enjoyed it. While, the book centrally focused on Ronan, our old gang was still there battling their own obstacles. Gansey was still searching for Glendower, although not as seriously, Blue was struggling with her fortune coming true and her developing feelings for Gansey, and Adam was facing the aftermath of his choices after the first book. Adam still really bothers me and I need something to make me like him. Pronto!

I still rated this fairly average because though I really did enjoy it I was still a bit confused. I kind of did not like how I felt like so much information was thrown at me and I was just supposed to understand it all. I was kind of confused with where things were going

One thing that I found really weird was Ronan and Kavinsky's relationship. They had this bitterness towards each other and Ronan absolutely hated him, but I never knew why, other than the fact that the Raven boys continuously say he's an a$$hole. Then all of a sudden Kavinsky is all jealous and clingy and it turned him into the psychotic villain of our story. Whoa!

However, I enjoyed the obvious confessions that we got Ronan. He was just a great lead in this book. He has some dark demons and there is so much more to him! I just love him so much! Oh my sweet, Ronan. ♥

Another character we were introduced to was the mysterious Gray Man. Now I admit I did not care for this man at all. He creeped me out and I didn't even want to read his POV. I found myself skimming his chapters and moving on. But I started to find him interesting when he found out exactly what the Greywaren was and decided not to take Ronan. And we found out his real name and about his brother. Though I would have liked to know a little bit more about his backstory because his confrontation with his brother was so quick!

Overall, I enjoyed reading this book, but I don't know I am just not a fan of Maggie Stiefvater still. She hasn't won me over and her books always make me zone off. However, this book really grabbed my attention during the last 150 pages and I honestly can't wait to read what happens next in Blue Lily, Lily Blue  now because that ending was insane! Maura! RONAN! What?! Oh my gods I am so intrigued. I think I am just invested now and I have to know what happens.

Wednesday, May 27, 2015

{REVIEW} The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater

Title: The Raven Boys
Author: Maggie Stiefvater
Series: The Raven Cycle
Book: 1
Genre: Young Adult, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal
Rating: ★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:

“There are only two reasons a non-seer would see a spirit on St. Mark’s Eve,” Neeve said. “Either you’re his true love . . . or you killed him.”

It is freezing in the churchyard, even before the dead arrive.

Every year, Blue Sargent stands next to her clairvoyant mother as the soon-to-be dead walk past. Blue herself never sees them—not until this year, when a boy emerges from the dark and speaks directly to her.

His name is Gansey, and Blue soon discovers that he is a rich student at Aglionby, the local private school. Blue has a policy of staying away from Aglionby boys. Known as Raven Boys, they can only mean trouble.

But Blue is drawn to Gansey, in a way she can’t entirely explain. He has it all—family money, good looks, devoted friends—but he’s looking for much more than that. He is on a quest that has encompassed three other Raven Boys: Adam, the scholarship student who resents all the privilege around him; Ronan, the fierce soul who ranges from anger to despair; and Noah, the taciturn watcher of the four, who notices many things but says very little.

For as long as she can remember, Blue has been warned that she will cause her true love to die. She never thought this would be a problem. But now, as her life becomes caught up in the strange and sinister world of the Raven Boys, she’s not so sure anymore.


From Maggie Stiefvater, the bestselling and acclaimed author of the Shiver trilogy and The Scorpio Races, comes a spellbinding new series where the inevitability of death and the nature of love lead us to a place we’ve never been before.

My Reaction/Thoughts:

ISN'T THE COVER BEAUTIFUL?! I LOVE IT!


I really wanted to love this book. I really, really did! So much so that I felt like I was forcing myself to love it more than I actually was. Everyone on bookstagram and Booktube just raves about how amazing The Raven Cycle series is that I couldn't wait to get started and I have to say I was not impressed. It's not that I felt like it was bad — it wasn't — it just was okay. I didn't hate it, but I didn't love it either. I think I just expected more because everyone hyped it up so much that I had really high hopes and they just weren't met. But I did enjoy it and am interested in what else will happen.

The thing I really liked about this book was the sweet Raven boys. Every single one of them was an unique puzzle piece and together they were a beautiful whole. I loved this group so much. Gansey is so entertaining to read because he is so adventurous and determined! I loved the way he looks after his friends and treats them like family. Because of Gansey's love and protectiveness over his friends, it kind of made me a little bit bothered by Adam Parrish. I understand that Adam is strong minded and wants to do everything himself. He doesn't like taking hand outs, but I hated how much he resented Ronan and Gansey just because they had money and he didn't. Sometimes I think it's a miracle he's even still friends with them if he is so bothered by what and where they come from.

“Gansey had once told Adam that he was afraid most people didn't know how to handle Ronan. What he meant by this was that he was worried that one day someone would fall on Ronan and cut themselves.” 

On the other hand, I really, really liked Ronan. I think there is just so much more to him and I can't wait to learn more. I love his tough guy exterior and he is so interesting! And how sweet was he over Chainsaw, his pet raven?! And how cute is it that he named her Chainsaw!?

My favorite character is definitely Blue. I just find her so interesting and I love reading her perspective. I love her crazy clairvoyant family. I think they are so funny and great to read. I am really interested to see how her feelings for Gansey progress because we all know it's going to happen. She saw his spirit on St. Mark's eve and then there was the prophecy that she fears will come true when she kisses her true love. So I can't wait to see what happens! I am scared because I do actually ship her with Gansey so hard! I just love them together! It's so sweet and funny how sarcastic Blue is when she talks to Gansey.

“Watch for the devil. When there’s a god, there’s always a legion of devils.” 

This book is easily read and the plot is entertaining, but it is just "okay" to me. Nevertheless, I am reading the sequel The Dream Thieves to find out what happens next!

Tuesday, May 26, 2015

{REVIEW} The Heir by Kiera Cass

Title: The Heir
Author: Kiera Cass
Genre: Young Adult, Dystopia, Romance
Series: The Selection
Book: 4
Rating: ★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:

Princess Eadlyn has grown up hearing endless stories about how her mother and father met. Twenty years ago, America Singer entered the Selection and won the heart of Prince Maxon—and they lived happily ever after. Eadlyn has always found their fairy-tale story romantic, but she has no interest in trying to repeat it. If it were up to her, she'd put off marriage for as long as possible.

But a princess's life is never entirely her own, and Eadlyn can't escape her very own Selection—no matter how fervently she protests.


Eadlyn doesn't expect her story to end in romance. But as the competition begins, one entry may just capture Eadlyn's heart, showing her all the possibilities that lie in front of her . . . and proving that finding her own happily ever after isn't as impossible as she's always thought.

My Reaction/Thoughts:

Now I am probably one of the biggest Maxerica shippers in this fandom and I was more than just a little excited when I found out that Kiera was writing another Selection novel, so it really pains me that I found this book to be just okay. I am soooooooo sad! I wanted to love this book! I really did. And I really, really tried to as well, but I think the only redeeming qualities this novel had were the goofy, cute guys that were vying for Eadlyn's attention. At this point I really don't know who I am rooting for. Scratch that, I know it's Kile, but I still love Henri and Erik. But I am looking forward to the next and final book. I need to know what happens to my belove Maxon and America (which was seriously lacking in this book) and who Eadlyn will finally fall for. I want to see how their put the Illea back together also.

My only big complaint with this novel was Eadlyn. I couldn't stand her for most of this book. She was such a snob. I know she grew up in a privileged environment and she is stressed out because she needs to step up and be Queen, but she just had the worst attitude. I hated that she would look down on people who weren't like her or on her level. She talked so much crap about other people that I just had to skip over her sometimes. I also couldn't believe her little tantrum she threw when Maxon and America told her that they wanted to throw another Selection to calm the uprisings going on in the country and Eadlyn responded with "You're ruining my life!" 
Nevertheless, I am excited to see Eadlyn just finally own her role as Queen and spread her sass all over in the right places. She was becoming a more enjoyable character at the end and I loved seeing her more comfortable side with the boys. So I will definitely read the next book! 

The gorgeous boys in this book are what really made me enjoy this novel. I loved Kile so much. I still don't believe him that he didn't throw in his name into the Selection, but I honestly think he's endgame. How can he not?! But I also want Cass to throw a curveball and choose Erik because he's not even in the competition and I know he's falling for Eadlyn! He's just so sweet too and he's really acting as a good confidant for her. Henri is just a sweet, sweet character as well and I love all his little scenes. They are all just so sweet and adorable! I DON'T KNOW WHO TO CHOOSE!