{REVIEW} Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling

Title: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Author: J.K.Rowling
Series: Harry Potter
Book: 2
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Adventure, Children's Middle Grade
Rating: ★★★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:

The Dursleys were so mean and hideous that summer that all Harry Potter wanted was to get back to the Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry. But just as he's packing his bags, Harry receives a warning from a strange, impish creature named Dobby who says that if Harry Potter returns to Hogwarts, disaster will strike.

And strike it does. For in Harry's second year at Hogwarts, fresh torments and horrors arise, including an outrageously stuck-up new professor, Gilderoy Lockheart, a spirit named Moaning Myrtle who haunts the girls' bathroom, and the unwanted attentions of Ron Weasley's younger sister, Ginny.

But each of these seem minor annoyances when the real trouble begins, and someone—or something—starts turning Hogwarts students to stone. Could it be Draco Malfoy, a more poisonous rival than ever? Could it possibly be Hagrid, whose mysterious past is finally told? Or could it be the one everyone at Hogwarts most suspects…Harry Potter himself.

My Reaction/Thoughts:

I read the second Harry Potter book! And I loved every second of it. I love spending my time in Hogwarts with our dynamic trio. I love the magic and the world. It's all so fascinating that I hate myself for not reading these when I was a child. Why didn't I just stick it through? I should have forced myself to read them until I loved them. (Shame on you, Dee!)



“Because that's what Hermione does,' said Ron, shrugging. 'When in doubt, go to the library.”

As always, the writing was fantastic. I could picture everything perfectly and feel as though I were right there. Maybe it helps because I've already seen the movies multiple times so I have that vision in my head...oh well. I loved it. I really like Rowling's voice. She brings this magical world with a touch of humor, as well as inspiring. I think it's a good thing I am reading these as I am older so I could really appreciate them more.

“It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” 

Harry, Ron, and Hermione continue to be my imaginary best friends. I love their loyalty and protectiveness to each other. I seriously had to smile every time Ron wanted to deck Malfoy for calling Hermione a Mudblood. These three are perfect. I really like the new additions we saw also, i.e. Moaning Myrtle.

“Oh well... I'd just been thinking, if you had died, you'd have been welcome to share my toilet.” 

Can we just take a moment to appreciate Fred and George? These two...ay LOL

“Fred and George, however, found all this very funny. They went out of
their way to march ahead of Harry down the corridors, shouting, "Make way for
the Heir of Slytherin, seriously evil wizard coming through ......

Percy was deeply disapproving of this behavior.

"It is not a laughing matter," he said coldly.

"Oh, get out of the way, Percy," said Fred. "Harry's in a hurry."

"Yeah, he's off to the Chamber of Secrets for a cup of tea with his fanged
servant," said George, chortling.

I could probably quote these two all day, but I'll leave you to just read this series for yourself and appreciate them!

The only problem I had was that the chamber of secrets had such a small appearance. It came and went so quickly! I was already towards the end with three chapters left thinking "when the heck are we going to see this chamber?!"

Overall, I loved this book. I can't wait to finally read the others whenever I can actually get my hands on them! I am loving the journey.

{REVIEW} Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

Title: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
Author: J.K. Rowling
Series: Harry Potter
Book: 1
Genre: Middle Grade, Fantasy, Young Adult Fantasy
Rating: ★★★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:

Harry Potter thinks he is an ordinary boy. He lives with his Uncle Vernon, Aunt Petunia and cousin Dudley, who are mean to him and make him sleep in a cupboard under the stairs. (Dudley, however, has two bedrooms, one to sleep in and one for all his toys and games.) Then Harry starts receiving mysterious letters and his life is changed forever. He is whisked away by a beetle-eyed giant of a man and enrolled at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The reason: Harry Potter is a wizard! The first book in the "Harry Potter" series makes the perfect introduction to the world of Hogwarts.

My Reaction/Thoughts:

I am so proud that I have finally read a Harry Potter book. Yes, this is my first time reading Harry Potter and I am only 18 years late, but never late than never right? Now that I probably have caused you all to have a heart attack I will say that I tried to read Harry Potter when I was a kid. My dad bought me this very book when it was first published and I read a few chapters, but just didn't get into it for whatever reason. I don't know, I was a kid. However, I have seen all the movies and was a huge fan. That was the number one reason why I didn't want to read the books. I had already saw the movies and knew what was going to happen so the suspense would not be present and I though it would take away the enjoyment. But now that I am a better reader and I thought I'd appreciate it a bit more I decided to give it a try. It was time. And I have to say that I LOVED IT! I absolutely loved it! I am so sad that I didn't just give these a try ages ago, but better late than never!

“The truth." Dumbledore sighed. "It is a beautiful and terrible thing, and should therefore be treated with great caution.” 

The writing was fantastic and so memorable. I loved the writing style and was easily drawn into this world. I could envision everything I read with ease and was surprised at how snarky Rowling's writing actually was. She constantly had me laughing from just the tiniest silly sentences and I loved it. I can definitely see why she is everyone's favorite author. She is well deserving.

“It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends.” 

What I loved most about the book was the characters. Every single character brings so much to the story. Harry is only eleven years old and is already a brave, strong character. He is is truly remarkable. Ron is funny, witty and  a great friend to Harry. Hermoine is smart and clever and even Neville is adorable. Even all the professors are such strong characters and I find that really refreshing for a series that has so many characters. You often forget about many people with there is such a huge cast, but Rowling really makes everyone stand out. But, I think I have to say Fred and George are definitely my favorite pair.

“You haven't got a letter on yours," George observed. "I suppose she thinks you don't forget your name. But we're not stupid-we know we're called Gred and Forge.” 

“Now, you two – this year, you behave yourselves. If I get one more owl telling me you've – you've blown up a toilet or –"
"Blown up a toilet? We've never blown up a toilet."

"Great idea though, thanks, Mum.” 

I cannot wait to read more of the series. Although, it may take me a while because I am slowly trying to find the collection in my bargain bookstores so I only have two at the most. *tears*
Never fear! I will read the whole series!

And I can now proudly say...I understand Quidditch!

Now I shall leave you while I go cry that I never received my letter from Hogwarts!

{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]

{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!

{REVIEW} Dreams of Gods & Monsters by Laini Taylor

Title: Dreams of Gods & Monsters

Author: Laini Taylor

Series: Daughter of Smoke & Bone

Book: 3

Rating: ★★★★★ 

Blurb from Goodreads:

By way of a staggering deception, Karou has taken control of the chimaera rebellion and is intent on steering its course away from dead-end vengeance. The future rests on her, if there can even be a future for the chimaera in war-ravaged Eretz.

Common enemy, common cause.

When Jael's brutal seraph army trespasses into the human world, the unthinkable becomes essential, and Karou and Akiva must ally their enemy armies against the threat. It is a twisted version of their long-ago dream, and they begin to hope that it might forge a way forward for their people.

And, perhaps, for themselves. Toward a new way of living, and maybe even love.

But there are bigger threats than Jael in the offing. A vicious queen is hunting Akiva, and, in the skies of Eretz ... something is happening. Massive stains are spreading like bruises from horizon to horizon; the great winged stormhunters are gathering as if summoned, ceaselessly circling, and a deep sense of wrong pervades the world.

What power can bruise the sky?

From the streets of Rome to the caves of the Kirin and beyond, humans, chimaera and seraphim will fight, strive, love, and die in an epic theater that transcends good and evil, right and wrong, friend and enemy. 

At the very barriers of space and time, what do gods and monsters dream of? And does anything else matter?

My Rating/Thoughts:

“Once upon a time,an angel and a devil pressed their hands to their hearts

and started the apocalypse.” 

I am going to start by saying this book was a monster! 613 pages of glorious writing that made my heart shrivel up from heartbreak and expand 20 sizes bigger because AVIKA AND KAROU♥♥♥♥♥

Seriously, it was that fantastic. It did take me a while to get into because for a while I just felt like nothing was really going on. There was a lot of building up and I just had to force myself to read. I think the problem I usually have is when authors will introduce new characters and give their perspectives and it takes me a while to get used to them. I don't know this person. I don't know their story and I don't care about them right now. 

But let's talk about the plot first (because I could write my own novel about the characters alone). The plot of this story was pretty good. I looovvvvveeedddd that the seraphim and chimaera finally came together to defeat Jael! YAAASSSSS! However. I didn't like how this whole "plan" kept getting hinted at and it really wasn't anything too special. Avika just burned a handprint into Jael and threatened to ignite it unless he left Earth with no weapons? Okay. That's a little anticlimatic. I was waiting for this huge brawl to finally take down Jael and his army, but I guess I was still satisfied. I also enjoyed that we saw more of the Stelians and the origin of sirithar. That was actually a little surprising (Poor Akiva). 

"It was not a happy ending, but a happy middle-- at last, after so many fraught beginnings."

Overall, this story was satisfying and I am beyond joyed that I got my happily ever after for Akiva and Karou! Seriously guys, their love is awesome sauce! They have the kind of love that everyone should strive for. I was in love with Avika. I was in love with Karou just reading Akiva's perspective. I felt it! I wanted it just as badly. Their glances! Their longing! GAH IT WAS SO BEAUTIFUL! *cries*

“But let's not be casual about this body, okay?" She nuzzled him back. "It may be your soul that I love, but I'm pretty keen on its vessel, too."

And what I really, really, really liked about this book was how love was based on your soul. Karou fell in love with Akiva's soul, and vice versa. It doesn't matter what you look like, love only cares for your soul and who you are. The fact that Liraz could fall in love with Ziri despite the fact that he was chimaera was beautiful. I love this message and it makes me all giddy! 

Now as for the characters, Laini Taylor really knows how to make you fall in love with every single character she writes about. Except Thiago because seriously who needs him? But I loved them all! Karou, Akiva, Zuzanna, Mik, Ziri!!!, Even tough-exterior-Liraz, Issa, Hazael. Everyone! 

“You are a conniving, deceitful hussy. I stand in awe." 

"You're sitting."

"I sit in awe.” 

I loved Karou and Zuzanna's friendship so much. I loved that she wanted to help Karou and it actually tore her apart because she couldn't stay and help her friend. Their exchanges were just so beautiful that I would tear up here and there because they are amazing.

Even Zuzanna and Mik had a beautiful relationship. I loved how geeky and brave Mik was. And romantic! This guy! Let me tell you. The fact that he would not propose to Zuzanna unless he performed 3 heroic acts was so heartwarming. They joked around with each other so much that it was so cute and then when Mic would act on those jokes to make Zuzanna happy? Awwww! (:

I am currently now in a book hangover because I just loved this world so much. I love Laini Taylor for writing just a great fantasy trilogy that was so unlike anything I've read before. I loved the world she built with their legends. Now I will forever be looking up to the sky looking for my own portal to Eretz (:

{REVIEW} Days of Blood & Starlight by Laini Taylor

Title: Days of Blood & Starlight
Author: Laini Taylor
Series: Daughter of Smoke & Bone
Book: 2
Rating: ★★★★1/2

Blurb from Goodreads:
Once upon a time, an angel and a devil fell in love and dared to imagine a world free of bloodshed and war.

This is not that world.

Art student and monster's apprentice Karou finally has the answers she has always sought. She knows who she is—and what she is. But with this knowledge comes another truth she would give anything to undo: She loved the enemy and he betrayed her, and a world suffered for it.

In this stunning sequel to the highly acclaimed Daughter of Smoke & Bone, Karou must decide how far she'll go to avenge her people. Filled with heartbreak and beauty, secrets and impossible choices, Days of Blood & Starlight finds Karou and Akiva on opposing sides as an age-old war stirs back to life.

While Karou and her allies build a monstrous army in a land of dust and starlight, Akiva wages a different sort of battle: a battle for redemption. For hope.

But can any hope be salvaged from the ashes of their broken dream?

My Rating/Thoughts:

“I am one of billions. I am stardust gathered fleetingly into form. I will be ungathered. The stardust will go on to be other things someday and I will be free.” 

First of all: I don't want to be in a world where Akiva and Karou don't love each other. It just can't happen.

“Your heart is not wrong. Your heart is your strength. You don't have to be ashamed.” 

This sequel was so much more compelling. I seriously love this world and want to be a part of it forever. Now I know it took me about a month to read because I was seriously lacking, but I still loved it so much. It had so many twists and turns that made me gasp and to the edge of my seat. I was so surprised and just love Laini Taylor's writing and imagination. All the characters are so great and make you love them so much. *ahem* Ziri, Hazael. And then she just rips your heart out! No spoilers!

“Mercy breeds mercy as slaughter breeds slaughter. We can’t expect the world to be better than we make it.” 

Okay, now I hate alternating POVs. They are the bane of my existence. I mean I get why we have them and we get so much more out of them, but I just hate how quickly they switch and sometimes it takes me out of the story. Taylor does, in my opinion, switch the perspective a little too quickly for my liking. Once I am engaged in the story and what is happening, BAM! NEW PERSPECTIVE. Sigh. But I still loved the different storylines that came together. I was so sad that Akiva and Karou were so distant from each other!! LIKE THEY NEVER EVEN HAPPENED AT ALL! UGH Akiva is just falling into the soldier he is while still trying to preserve the dream he and Karou had, while Karou...well she lost sight of that dream. She feels helpless and allies with the monster of all douchebags Thiago (gah I hate that jerk with every fiber of my being). And it takes her a while to see straight, but once she does...man is it EPIC! I cannot wait to read the final book because Taylor knows how to leave off on a huge cliffhanger!

“It was the worst kind of silence, but a good kind of closeness. These weren't her folk, but...they were, and maybe that meant that anyone could be anyone's, which was a sort of nice thing to think, with the world falling apart.” 

Days of Blood & Starlight  is a great sequel. It's exquisite and I am only saddened that it took me so long to finally finish it.

Would I recommend? Try this fantasy novel. Give yourself a change and give it a chance (:

{REVIEW} Daughter of Smoke & Bone by Laini Taylor

Title: Daughter of Smoke & Bone
Author: Laini Taylor
Series: Daughter of Smoke & Bone
Book: 1
Rating: ★★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:

Around the world, black handprints are appearing on doorways, scorched there by winged strangers who have crept through a slit in the sky.

In a dark and dusty shop, a devil’s supply of human teeth grows dangerously low.

And in the tangled lanes of Prague, a young art student is about to be caught up in a brutal otherwordly war.

Meet Karou. She fills her sketchbooks with monsters that may or may not be real, she’s prone to disappearing on mysterious "errands", she speaks many languages - not all of them human - and her bright blue hair actually grows out of her head that color. Who is she? That is the question that haunts her, and she’s about to find out.

When beautiful, haunted Akiva fixes fiery eyes on her in an alley in Marrakesh, the result is blood and starlight, secrets unveiled, and a star-crossed love whose roots drink deep of a violent past. But will Karou live to regret learning the truth about herself?

My Rating/Thoughts:

“Once upon a time, an angel and a devil fell in love. 

It did not end well.” 

Perfect. This book is what I think I have been looking for in a great modern fantasy book. It's filled with a great world that I just didn't want to leave! It's a bit confusing at firsts because there is a lot of world building, but once I got the hang of it and understood everything, it just clicked. Everything made sense and I fell in love. I enjoyed the characters so much. Karou is such an interesting character and I loved her. Akiva is a dangerously sexy angel that you can't help but fall in love with. Once I really got into this book, I couldn't put it down. Even though my head was killing me and I couldn't read anymore, I kept going. I had to finish it.

“Wishes are false. Hope is true. Hope makes its own magic.” 

What was most interesting was the creatures in this novel. There are the "angels" the Seraph, or seraphim, and the Chimaera, the "devils" and they both have such a twist. Both chimaera and seraphim have different legends about how they came to be and it's so interesting to read the different legends in the book. The chimaera also are portrayed a little differently. In this world, they are half human and half various beasts. Reading all the descriptions in the book, I always thought "whoa that sounds so weird."  The book also goes back and forth a lot and it can be a bit confusing, but I think it was a great concept. The author doesn't spell it all out for us and makes it easy. Oh and I loved all the title pages at the beginning of a new part for the book with the feathers and the "Once upon a time..." introductions. It was so cute and really hooked me into the story.

“Once upon a time, an angel lay dying in the mist.

And a devil knelt over him and smiled.”

The magic in this novel had a nice twist as well. In this book, magic comes from pain. Magic has a cost and it was interesting to see how Brimstone would get so upset with Karou using magic on what he perceived as wasteful. I loved his relationship with Karou and Madrigal and how the novel showed that progression backwards. I am not going into too much detail because I don't want to spoil anyone but I will say one thing. One of my favorite small things I loved was how Madrigal would make all her random wishes out loud instead of actually using the scuppies (who wouldn't want a necklace of scuppies to keep around their neck to make wishes? I know I would). My favorite one was "I wish I had blue hair." That was my favorite and made me smile!

“And yet, something tied them together, strong than any of that, something with the power to conduct her blood and breath like a symphony, so that anything she did to fight against it felt like discord, like disharmony with her self.”

I LOVED LOVED LOVED AKIVA AND KAROU!!!! Their romance was so cute! So passionate and unlike any that I have read in the past couple months. I just loved it so much and can't wait to see what happens in the next books. I definitely need to pick the next books up immediately because I am dying to find out what happens next.

Would I recommend? Yes. This is a great fantasy novel and you should read it if you are looking for a different read that has a new world and great romance. I loved it. I mean look at that gorgeous cover? Doesn't that alone make you want to read it? (:

November Wrap Up

So November I was obviously in my slump, but I am still impressed with  myself. Battling a slump is rough, but I still managed to read 7 books! Go me! I hope December brings me just better reading times because work is making me lazy! Oops. 

So this month I have read:

1. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins (reread before the movie)
2. My Life With the Walter Boys by Ali Novak
3. The Retribution of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin 
4. To All the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han  
5. The Distance Between Us by Kasie West (ebook, not pictured)
6. The DUFF: Designated Ugly Fat Friend by Kody Keplinger 
7. Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry

What books have you read this month? Have you read any of these? What did you think? (:

Waiting for Wednesday #3

Waiting for Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Breaking the Spine  that spotlights upcoming releases that we're just itching to get our hands on.

Title: Frostbite
Author: Amanda Hocking
Series: The Kanin Chronicles
Book: 1
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Expected Published: January 6, 2015 by St. Martin's Press

Blurb from Barnes & Noble
Hidden deep in the heart of a snow-covered wilderness lies the secret kingdom of the Kanin—a magical realm as beautiful as it is treacherous…Bryn Aven has never fit into Kanin society. Her blond hair and blue eyes set her apart as an outsider—a half-blood unable to hold a respectable rank. But she’s determined to prove herself as a loyal protector of the kingdom she loves. Her dream is to become a member of the King’s elite guard, and she’s not going to let anything stand in her way…not even her growing feelings for her boss, Ridley Dresden. A relationship between them is strictly forbidden, but Bryn can’t fight her attraction to him. And she’s beginning to think he feels it too. Meanwhile, there’s an attack on the kingdom—one that will test Bryn’s strength like never before. Finally, she has the chance to confront Konstantin Black, the traitor who tried to kill her father years ago. It’s up to Bryn to put a stop to him before he strikes again. But is she willing to risk everything to protect a kingdom that doesn’t accept her for who she really is? And when her mission brings her closer to Ridley, will she be able to deny her heart?

Why am I waiting?
I am so excited for this book! This book takes another dive into the  Trylle society, but this time surrounding around the Kanin. I really enjoy reading Amanda Hocking's novel because she provides a great balance between fantasy and romance. And that cover just looks gorgeous doesn't it?

{REVIEW} Opposition by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Title: Opposition
Author: Jennier L. Armentrout
Series: Lux
Book: 5
Rating: ★★★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:
Katy knows the world changed the night the Luxen came.

She can't believe Daemon welcomed his race or stood by as his kind threatened to obliterate every last human and hybrid on Earth. But the lines between good and bad have blurred, and love has become an emotion that could destroy her—could destroy them all.

Daemon will do anything to save those he loves, even if it means betrayal.

They must team with an unlikely enemy if there is any chance of surviving the invasion. But when it quickly becomes impossible to tell friend from foe, and the world is crumbling around them, they may lose everything— even what they cherish most—to ensure the survival of their friends…and mankind.

War has come to Earth. And no matter the outcome, the future will never be the same for those left standing.

My Rating/Thoughts:
“Oh no. Oh, hell to the no to the tenth power.” 

It's always difficult to read a last book in the series because you never know where it's going to leave you. I usually only have two reactions. Either I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT or I am left heartbroken and empty because I expected more. This book has actually left me somewhere in the middle for the first time ever. I loved the ending and I thought the epilogue was very sweet, but everything else was a bit eh for me. Don't get me wrong I still absolutely love this book and it was filled with just as much action, jokes, and love as the rest of the series, but I thought the end with the Luxen was a bit hasty and left me thinking "that's it?"

“The most beautiful people, ones whose beauty is only rivaled by what is inside of them, are the ones who are quietly unaware of it.”

Now Origin left off with all the Luxen coming down on Earth like a bunch of fallen angels and they were quickly assimilating DNA from humans and killing everyone. I was still unsure where this world domination was going because it seemed they were targeting people who had families and public officials. So it was a bit disappointing that the one behind it was was Ethan just wanted revenge on the humans and that was the one and only reason why the Luxen were brought to Earth to complete mass destruction. Which says something because even Daemon and Katy voice their disappointment.

Nonetheless, it was still a fun read. I liked that we had to go to the Arum for help to defeat the Luxen and enemies became frenemies. I enjoyed Archer and Luc more in this book. They quickly became more of my favorites. They were both were just so darn funny that I loved them to pieces!

“Get out of my head.” “I can’t help it,” Archer replied from where he sat on the couch. “You’re broadcasting your thoughts so damn loudly I feel like I need to go sit in the corner and start rocking, whispering Daemon’s name over and over again.”

Now maybe it was because I expected more or maybe it was because the whole book was a little depressing, but I wasn't rushing to finish this. I mean I did come down with the flu and there was no way I was going to be able to power through this and that may have affected by overall reaction to this book, but it was just good to me. Not great.  This book did feel like a post-apocalyptic-dystopia and maybe that's why I felt like it was a tad depressing. There is still a lot of action which is nice. There is a lot of the same sarcasm and funny scenes. And there are a lot of hot steamy scenes with Katy and Daemon. Their relationship has really matured over these novels and it's nice to read because it depicts reality. JLA wrapped up this series nicely and I am so glad I read them. They are forever now one of my favorite series. I love her writing and how she just filled the books with a bunch of pop culture references! She brought up the Avengers, The Walking Dead, and countless Harry Potter references! I loved it and it always made me smile. I also loved how even our characters were thinking logically but then would bring up random stuff all the time. It was so entertaining to read because it was just so relatable!

“Hell, I’d keep her in Bubble Wrap if it weren’t so damn creepy and also inconvenient, considering I had a terrible habit of obsessively popping the damn things until not a single bubble was left.” 

Overall, I still really enjoyed it and I think it was a nice read and a good conclusion to the series. I am so sad that this series is over and I am going to deeply miss Daemon and Katy and Dee and Archer and Luc and just about everyone! These characters quickly became a part of me and I love them so much!!
I think my ranking of the books will have to be:
Obsidian
Origin
Onyx
Opposition
Opal

But that's just my opinion! And yes, I totally recommend!

{REVIEW} Origin by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Title: Origin
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Series: Lux
Book: 4
Rating: ★★★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:
Daemon will do anything to get Katy back.

After the successful but disastrous raid on Mount Weather, he’s facing the impossible. Katy is gone. Taken. Everything becomes about finding her. Taking out anyone who stands in his way? Done. Burning down the whole world to save her? Gladly. Exposing his alien race to the world? With pleasure.

All Katy can do is survive.

Surrounded by enemies, the only way she can come out of this is to adapt. After all, there are sides of Daedalus that don’t seem entirely crazy, but the group’s goals are frightening and the truths they speak even more disturbing. Who are the real bad guys? Daedalus? Mankind? Or the Luxen?

Together, they can face anything.

But the most dangerous foe has been there all along, and when the truths are exposed and the lies come crumbling down, which side will Daemon and Katy be standing on?


And will they even be together?

My Rating/Thoughts:
 "Holy crap on a cracker..."

That pretty much sums this book up perfectly. I have read and heard from several people that this book is the best in the series and I can definitely see why! This book had even more twists and turns that it had my heart racing the whole time! I am left in awe. I am blown away. My mind is blown!
Packed with even more heart racing action, betrayal, steamy hot romance, and loss, this book really lived up to the hype. It also pains me that we see the loss of three more characters! Dang these people started dropping like flies. I never, ever expected that.

So after their successful break in into Daedalus to save Beth, Daemon and Katy are once again betrayed by Blake. But Katy is captured by Daedalus and this was the major cliffhanger that left me terrified for what this book would bring. I knew Origin introduced dual POVs and I hated that. I had when series switch POVs in the middle of a series. If you want to do multiple POVs, start off that way. I don't enjoy getting used to reading books one way and then it switches up on me. But with this switch, I have to saw I loved it. I loved reading from Daemon's perspective because we get to see more into his character than what Katy sees. We see how much he does truly love Katy, how far he would go to save her, and how far his awesomeness goes.

"Did you think you could stop me? I'll burn the world down to save her."

I am still in awe of how completely awesome Daemon is. He is one of the most powerful Luxen and I was floored every time you see him in battle-beast mode. This guy is jaw dropping! The lengths he went to save Kat and be with her was so beautiful. He basically made himself get captured on purpose so they'd take him to Daedalus just so he could be with her and find a way to escape. He is so protective of her that it is beautiful. He vows to kill every person that ever makes even the smallest bruise on Kat and there is limit to his love for her. He is completely in love with her that it makes you tear up every time he finally says those three little words to her (which is such a huge deal to him).

“Daemon Black could be as prickly as a hedgehog having a really bad day, but underneath all that spindly armor, he was sweet, protective, and incredibly selfless.”  

And what about that Vegas scene?! MY LITTLE SHIPPER HEART IS OVERJOYED DANCING ON RAINBOWS AND GUMDROPS! *sighs*

“I want a years-worth of seconds and minutes with you. I want a decade's worth of hours, so many that I can't add them up.”

Katy as always was fierce. I can't believe that she was the one to make Blake eat his comeuppance pie!  That little turd deserved Katy to get all nuclear Terminator on him. The fact that he was working with Daedalus and they were forcing her into some crazy "Hunger Games for alien hybrids" was insane. No matter how long Katy refused to fight and give in to what they wanted for her, in the end she had to do what they wanted. They finally let her take her chance at Blake and it was so epic. I was shocked with how powerful Katy has gotten. I felt just as badly as she did, don't get me wrong, I have a heart afterall, but I still enjoyed it too. But you can't help but feel terrible as well for all the killings and the blood on Katy's hands because she feels regret so strongly. She never wanted to do any of this. She clings to Old Katy and you mourn for her just as Katy does.

“While you’re deep in something, you never say or do what you need to. It’s always after the fact, when it’s too late, that you realize what you should’ve said or done.”

I think this book also made me love Luc even more. Luc is a 15 year old mafia inspired kid who I just fell in love with. This kid is sarcastic and matches Daemon's personality perfectly. An unlikely alliance, but one we can actually trust. Now we actually learn a little more about Luc in Origin and why he has those shocking amethyst eyes. Turns out Luc is what Daedalus calls an origin. He is the offspring of a Luxen male and hybrid female and he can wreak havoc at any given moment so don't piss him off!

Speaking of Daedalus, this place is all kinds of psycho. Their whole organization is testing hybrids for "stability" by making them fight and kill each other. They are basically trying to breed more origins between the Luxen and their mutated hybrids, not to mention injecting humans and hybrids with what they call LH-11? What the hell is up with that? I am glad we got to see more into this cracked out organization, but they have some serious mental problems. It terrifies me that they have hundreds of these all powerful origins all holed up in one building ready to "come out and play" *shivers* But I can't wait to see their whole department get blown to the next galaxy. I wonder if that is what the general endgame is for the DOD in the next book? Who knows?

Oh but we finally discovered who betrayed Dawson and Beth to the DOD...
We find out because he was betraying Katy and Daemon to the DOD now as well!
You just can't trust anyone. I was so upset too because I thought things were turning around but I knew I should listen to my gut! I knew there was just something about him since Obsidian. *sigh* Oh well. Dawson made him pay. Dawson was pretty awesome in this book as well. He is like Daemon #2.

And that ending?! Oh. My. God.
"Oh shit. ET so phoned home, kids.” 

So overall, I loved this book. I am still floored with everything that happened. I can't wait to start the last and final book in this series. I am a little depressed now that I realized I only have one more left. This has quickly became one of my absolute favorite series and I am glad that I waited to marathon them. I love JLA's writing style. I love how she mixes in humor even when the situations are too dire. Her characters are all likable and I am now a big JLA fan. This woman seriously knows how to write. She makes the most silly, simple sentences make me burst into laughter because sometimes they are just so random. I love her and these books so much I am never letting them leave my heart.

Would I recommend? Absolutely.

{REVIEW} Opal by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Title: Opal
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Series: Lux
Book: 3
Rating: ★★★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:
After everything, I’m no longer the same Katy. I’m different... And I’m not sure what that will mean in the end. When each step we take in discovering the truth puts us in the path of the secret organization responsible for torturing and testing hybrids, the more I realize there is no end to what I’m capable of. The death of someone close still lingers, help comes from the most unlikely source, and friends will become the deadliest of enemies, but we won’t turn back. Even if the outcome will shatter our worlds forever.


Together we’re stronger... and they know it.

My Rating/Thoughts:

"You really shouldn't trust a soul in this game. Not when everyone has something to gain or to lose."

Like the other books in this series, Opal is yet another work of perfection. I really enjoyed reading this book and there is never a part that I feel like it's being dragged out or boring. Maybe I am being biased, but I don't care. I love this series and this was as great.

So Opal centers around Katy and Daemon planning to help Dawson try to get Beth back from the Daedalus. This is really all they can do because Dawson seriously has a death wish and I found this to be so touching. Without even having Beth around, you can see how truly and deeply Dawson loves her. Dawson and Daemon are truly identical brothers. Awwwww!

So while their team tries to prepare for this big breakout, they make aliances with Blake. Yes, you read right, Blake. Blake has the nerve to show his face again! I didn't trust this little creep one second. Not only do we know that he is blackmailing Daemon and Katy into helping him, but he has been creeping into Katy's bed sleeping next to her! Gross! What a little perv. I'd be lying if I didn't say I wanted him to redeem himself because he seemed to be really remorseful over what he did to Adam, but no dice. This little turd still puts himself first and I hate him. I really hope I don't have to see him anymore. I really hope Daemon finds him and kills him this time! Get him, baby, go ahead!

So in preparation for this breakout, the team needs to build up a tolerance for onyx, which I thought was a nice twist. I thought this would be quite useful to use against Daedalus. How awesome would it be if Superman no longer was affected by his kryptonite? I admire Katy as well for really being determined to do this. No matter how much Daemon doesn't want to see her doing this, she puts her foot down and basically tells him to shut it and get over it because she is doing this whether he likes it or not. I can't say enough how much I just love her character. She is really becoming so strong and fierce! As well as fiesty!

“You’re speechless.” He chuckled. “I like that. And I also like you all feisty. Want to hit me again?” 

I really liked the relationships in this book as well. Not only the obvious relationship between Katy and Daemon, which was flawless. But Daemon and Dawson as well. Dawson was not quite the same. There is no doubt he was suffering some type of PTSD which is to be expected, without all the lashouts. You can't really expect him to bounce back from something like that. But the way Katy would continue to try to get him to talk or convince him to start doing normal things again like going back to school was touching. Katy didn't need to be the one to do this, but since she was the one he responded to was just so heartwarming. He wouldn't talk to his brother or sister, but he opened up to Katy. This was so cute and I know Daemon really appreciated that she got him to want to spend Saturdays watching a Ghost Hunters marathon like old times. Also I thought it was great development how even Matthew warmed up to Katy. In Obsidian, there was no doubt that he didn't approve of  Katy around Dee or Daemon, but now he sees her as one of them. During the first failed breakin into the Daedalus, Matthew comes to Katy first to ask if she is okay and offers her a blanket. I know this is such a small gesture, but it shows just how far even their relationship has gone. Dee was a little brat during the book and I still missed the old Dee, but I am glad she is coming around as well. This book had to deal with a lot with the aftermath of Adam's death and I think it was appropriate. It didn't rush anything or brush it under the rug, it showed the pain that was suffered and mourning.

“Oh! Books! You have books!”
I laughed as several people waiting in line looked over their shoulders. “Hand them over.”
He clutched them to his chest, making moony eyes. “My life is now complete.”

But what I really enjoyed about this book was Daemon and Katy's relationship (duh). Their relationship is just perfect. It isn't rushed or too overly cheesy. It's real. They take their time with each other and put each other first. They are both so protective over each other and will stop at nothing to keep the other safe. I love their banter and the way they are with each other. They are just so gosh darn perfect! I think I cried when Daemon bought Katy a brand new Macbook Air. That was just too adorable and because he knows her, he knows how much blogging and reading are to her, he tells her to "go play." Sweet, romantic Daemon is just too irresistible!

As always, JLA really knows how to write an excellent clutch-to-my-chest-and-never-let-it-go book. You have no choice but to devour it! I am really trying to just make these books last because this is the only time I'll read them for the first time, but I can't help it! I can't stop! And I just love how JLA relates Katy to us! She fangirls! She likes Dean Winchester! It's like JLA is writing us! I love it!

I can't wait to read Origin now because with an ending like THAT?! OH HOLY SMOKES! I am speechless and terrified!

Would I recommend it? Are we really asking this question? I though it'd be obvious...

Teaser Tuesday #1

Teaser Tuesday 

is a weekly event hosted by Should Be Reading where you share a teaser from your current read.

-Opal by Jennifer L. Armentrout

What I'm reading Monday!

Since it's Monday, I am going to try to make a post every week showing what I plan on reading during the week.

On my list this week is:

    

These are the last three books in the Lux series by Jennifer L. Armentrout. If you have been keeping up with my blog, you know I already read the first two books in this urban fantasy about aliens and am in love. Depending on how fast I want to read this week, I may finish the rest of this series. I kind of want to make this series last a while longer because I don't want it to be over! But since I am obsessed with it, I just may devour it. I am marathoning this series and loving every minute of it. 

{REVIEW} Onyx by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Title: Onyx
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Series: Lux
Book: 2
Rating: ★★★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:
Being connected to Daemon Black sucks…

Thanks to his alien mojo, Daemon’s determined to prove what he feels for me is more than a product of our bizarro connection. So I’ve sworn him off, even though he’s running more hot than cold these days. But we’ve got bigger problems.

Something worse than the Arum has come to town…

The Department of Defense are here. If they ever find out what Daemon can do and that we're linked, I’m a goner. So is he. And there's this new boy in school who’s got a secret of his own. He knows what’s happened to me and he can help, but to do so, I have to lie to Daemon and stay away from him. Like that's possible. Against all common sense, I'm falling for Daemon. Hard.

But then everything changes…

I’ve seen someone who shouldn’t be alive. And I have to tell Daemon, even though I know he’s never going to stop searching until he gets the truth. What happened to his brother? Who betrayed him? And what does the DOD want from them—from me?


No one is who they seem. And not everyone will survive the lies…

My Rating/Thoughts:

“I could always give you a teaser. You bookish people love teasers, don't you?”

HOLY FEELS BATMAN! This book was so much fun! I am overstuffed with the feels tingling in from my fingers to my toes.I LOVED IT! The only minor problem I had with it was that after that big "battle" with the DOD, I felt like that was the end of the book, but I had about 70 pages left. So I was left wondering "oh boy, what the heck is going to happen now?!" Also, I noticed a few typos here and there. Um, who the heck didn't catch those? Other than that, I had so much fun!

“Your mail could've waited." Daemon followed me into the kitchen. "What is it? Just books?"
Grabbing the OJ from the fridge, I sighed. People who didn't heart books didn't understand.” 

Katy was even more amazing in this book. I connected to her even more. I loved how invested she was in her books and her blog. She feels actual pain when she couldn't read as much or how excited she is when she gets more books. SHE UNDERSTANDS ME! I also love how this is only the second book and she's already becoming this amazing, fierce heroine. She doesn't want to sit around waiting for someone to save her, she wants to be beside Daemon fighting as his equal and not behind him. I loved that about her. She didn't give up on her training and needs to learn to protect not only herself but Daemon, Dee and her mom. She is already showing great character development and I can't wait to see where the other books leave her. By the way, whoa she's like a crazy hybrid now! I knew that connection was more than just weird link between her and Daemon. I'm a little jealous...

“Daemon was a total babe, but he was stab-worthy, which at times zeroed out the babe part. Not always, though.” 

Daemon...Oh sweet baby Jesus why aren't you real?! It actually pains me that this guy doesn't exist. I love him with every fiber of my beeeeeeeing! He was even more lovable in this book and I didn't even think that was possible. I loved how he was determined to show Katy how what he felt for her was true and pure. He wouldn't give up on her and it was so touching. I LOVED how he would bring her her favorite treats to school in front of everyone. And he brought her a rose?! *cries and dies* aaaawwwww!

Blake.....I DIDN'T WANT TO TRUST YOU AND YOU MADE ME! AND BROKE MY HEART! I liked him and wanted Katy and him to have a nice friendship, but nope. I will not forgive you, Blake.

Dee. Awe poor Dee. I am so sad we didn't get to see her as much. Katy was so stuck with her own business with Blake and Daemon that she didn't have any time to spend with Dee and it bummed me out. I missed her. I was kind of confused why Dee was so upset about not hanging out with Katy but when she gets her to go to the movies why was Ash and Adam brought along? Wouldn't you want to spend solo time with Katy if you missed her so much? That was weird to me. Regardless, I want more Dee in the next books!

Now for the storyline. I thought it was pretty entertaining and a nice touch that we got more into the DOD  (though not much). I'm still left with questions, but it was interesting to stick our toes in. I want to know more about this so called Daedalus. This book opened up many doors for the next books and I look forward to reading more. I don't want to get too much into the plot because I'll want to spoil everything. So I will just leave it as: it was great, entertaining, and sucks you right in and doesn't release you until you finish the whole book. Yes, I finished this book in a day. I couldn't put it down!

Now onto Opal!

Oh! Side note: the whole book I was wondering why it was called Onyx...and FINALLY it came into context during the last couple chapters. O_o

Would I recommend this? YES! WHY HAVEN'T YOU READ IT? Don't you love Daemon? Aren't you obsessed? Go! Read it now!

{REVIEW} Obsidian by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Title: Obsidian
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Series: Lux
Book: 1
Rating: ★★★★★

Blurb from Goodreads: 
Starting over sucks.

When we moved to West Virginia right before my senior year, I'd pretty much resigned myself to thick accents, dodgy internet access, and a whole lot of boring... until I spotted my hot neighbor, with his looming height and eerie green eyes. Things were looking up.

And then he opened his mouth.

Daemon is infuriating. Arrogant. Stab-worthy. We do not get along. At all. But when a stranger attacks me and Daemon literally freezes time with a wave of his hand, well, something... unexpected happens. 

The hot alien living next door marks me.

You heard me. Alien. Turns out Daemon and his sister have a galaxy of enemies wanting to steal their abilities, and Daemon's touch has me lit up like the Vegas Strip. The only way I'm getting out of this alive is by sticking close to Daemon until my alien mojo fades. 

If I don't kill him first, that is.

My Rating/Thoughts:
“The day my internet was hooked up was better than having a hot guy check out my butt and ask for my phone number.”

This book was phenomenal and I absolutely loved it! This book is filled with great characters, great dialogue, and just a hot steamy romance. A nice added touch is that the love isn't instant either. The attraction is instant, but they don't fall head over heels for each other right away. In fact, they fight that attraction the whole book and it just makes it that much more intoxicating! I loved reading their  dialogue so much and was constantly laughing at their banter. I loved how sarcastic Katy was and how Daemon brought out that side of her that made her not want to be the "boring" and safe Katy. It was so funny to me how she would bring up frequently how annoyed she was that he was poking her with his pen in math class. I don't know why, but this was hilarious to me. 

I loved Katy's character. I love that she was a little book nerd like me that enjoyed reading books and reviewing them on her blog. She was so relatable and I really enjoyed her. She wasn't the typical annoying teenage protagonist and it was refreshing. She didn't spend all her time swooning over Daemon even though she was attracted to him, she tried to deny it and it was just great to see her scenes with him. This whole book could have been about their time together with absolute no conflict and I still would have given it five stars because they are just great. 

“Beautiful face. Beautiful body. Horrible attitude. It was the holy trinity of hot boys.” 

Now there was no denying how attractive and hot Daemon was. If this guy isn't your book boyfriend then I applaud you for not falling for him. He's so swoonable and the right amount of bad boy that will make you wish he were real. I think I loved how protective he was over Dee as well. It was so touching how much he looked after her and the lengths he would go to make sure she was safe. It always made me so giddy when he would call Katy "Kitten" It was like when Patch would always call Nora "Angel" and she would hate it, but you know they secretly were fighting a million butterflies in their stomach.

But my other favorite character has to be Dee! How awesome is it that I finally have my name in a book (well nickname, but  it counts)! I loved her so much! I felt so sad for her at the beginning because you could just tell how badly she wanted a friend by how tightly she clung to Katy. I just wanted Daemon to leave her alone and let them be friends! I definitely want a friend like Dee. She's awesome and so ballsy. I couldn't stop laughing when she hid Daemon's car keys and wouldn't give them back until he earned bonus points by being nice to Katy. Go Dee!

I won't go into the plot because I don't want to give away too much, but it was really interesting to read. I look forward to reading more about the Lux and Arum. I am so invested and obsessed with this series already that I can't believe I had this on my shelf for so long and kept putting it off. I feel ashamed...

Would I recommend? HELLS YES!

Waiting on Wednesday #1

"Waiting on Wednesday" is a weekly event hosted by Breaking the Spine that spotlights upcoming releases that we're just itching to get our hands on.

Title: The Retribution of Mara Dyer

Author: Michelle Hodkin

Series: Mara Dyer

Book: 3

Genre: Young adult, fantasy, paranormal

Expected release date: November 4, 2014 by Simon and Schuster 

Blurb from Goodreads:

Mara Dyer wants to believe there's more to the lies she’s been told.
There is.

She doesn't stop to think about where her quest for the truth might lead.
She should.

She never had to imagine how far she would go for vengeance.
She will now.

Loyalties are betrayed, guilt and innocence tangle, and fate and chance collide in this shocking conclusion to Mara Dyer’s story.

Retribution has arrived.

Why am I waiting?
This book is the third and final book in the Mara Dyer trilogy and I cannot even begin to describe my impatience and longing to get my hands on this book. The Evolution of Mara Dyer ended on the biggest, most shocking cliffhanger and I have been dying to read this ever since. With the push back of this novel, I am glad we are only down to a couple more weeks!

What are you waiting to read?

Book Cake Tag!

The lovely Yvonne from a world between folded pages tagged me to do the Book Cake tag! Thanks lovely! Tags are always fun. 

Flour: A book that was a little bit slow to start off but really picked up as it went along.

I choose The Testing by Joelle Charbonneau. I was into this book from the beginning, but I feel like it took a little while for it to get going. I felt like I was just going through the motions at first. But then I got into it and found it quite intriguing, even though it was a little bit like The Hunger Games at times for me. 

Margarine: A book that had a rich, great plot.

I immediately think of The Grisha trilogy by Leigh Bardugo. Shadow and Bone was so intriguing and grabbed me from the very first pages. I loved the characters and the beautiful magical world that Bardugo created! I could not put this book or series down. 

Eggs: A book you first thought was going to be bad but actually turned out quite enjoyable. 

I am going to have to go with The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey for this one because I am just not a huge sci-fi, alien invasion reader. In fact, I hate sci-fi, but this book was great to me! I was hooked the entire time even though it did get confusing at parts. Many people have said that it is very slow at the beginning, but I didn't feel that way at all. From the very beginning I was hooked. I loved it. 

Sugar: A sugary, sweet book.

For me this has  Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins written all over it. This book was just ooey, gooey love. I absolutely loved it. The characters are all so lovable and the story is just so great. It's a quick and easy read. This will now be my go-to book for a quick pick me up when I am depressed or stressed.  

Icing: A book that covered every single element that you enjoy about a book (funny moments, action moments, sad moments, etc.)

I am going to have to go with Last Sacrifice by Richelle Mead for this one. This is the last book in the Vampire Academy series and I was actually hooked through the whole series. I read the series in about a week and it has everything: a strong female heroine, witty characters, two sexy male characters that you will fall in love with, action, humor, and everything else you love. If you can get over how cheesy you may think Vampire Academy may be, you'll be surprised by how great it actually is. I know because I was one of those people who thought it was the most cheesy and stupid series out there, but it ended up being one of my favorites once I gave it a chance. 

Sprinkles: A book series that you can kind of turn back to for a little pick me up when you're feeling down. 

This is a little hard for me because I have so many series that I absolutely adore, but to pick me up when I'm down? That has to be the Shatter Me trilogy without a doubt. I choose this because I am so in love with Aaron Warner and if you say you aren't, you're crazy. This man is so sexy and wonderful that I just....gah I love this man so much. Because of his and Juliette's love, I would definitely turn to Shatter Me for many re-reads. 

The Cherry on Top: Your favorite book this year so far. 

Well this year is almost over and I am choosing City of Heavenly Fire by Cassandra Clare for my favorite book this year. This book was a great conclusion to The Mortal Instruments series and I was crying the entire time because it was so hard to say goodbye to all my favorite characters. Plus it had me in suspense throughout the whole book because I was so terrified that some of my favorites were going to die! But I am really glad with how this series ended. Clare certainly knows how to write a finale! It was also so nice to see my favorites from The Infernal Devices series as well. I think their cameos are what made me crying the most! I will forever read anything Cassandra Clare writes! 

*REVIEW* The Trylle trilogy by Amanda Hocking

Title: Switched, Torn, and Ascend
Author: Amanda Hocking
Series: Trylle Trilogy
Rating: ★★★★★

Blurb from Goodreads:
When Wendy Everly was six-years-old, her mother was convinced she was a monster and tried to kill her. It isn't until eleven years later that Wendy finds out her mother might've been telling the truth. With the help of Finn Holmes, Wendy finds herself in a world she never knew existed - and it's one she's not sure if she wants to be a part of.
My Rating/Thoughts:
What started as a satisfactory read turned into a great, loving and dear series for me. When I read Switched two years ago, I was entertained. I thought it was a nice concept and I enjoyed entering the Förening and engaging with all of the Trylle society. The world was really captivating and I wanted to know more about these people,the Queen, the manskling, the Markis and Marksinna. Now for whatever reason I put this series off for two years. Probably because I was catching up on my other TBR pile of books or just became obsessed with whatever else I was reading at the time. But when I stepped back into the Förening, I was hooked. I read Torn and Ascend both in a day! 
"I will make this world a better place, whether they like it or not. That’s the fun of being Queen."
Now let's talk about the characters. Wendy had become a much more enjoyable  and strong character. In Switched, she was so whiny and annoying that I really didn't connect to her at all. I didn't care that she developed this instalove type crush with Finn and that it wasn't going to work out. She had to do what she had to for her people and accept that she was a much more important person to the Trylle than just being with the one she "loved." Maybe it was because I didn't care for Finn or didn't connect with Wendy, but I wasn't heartbroken that she would lose him. I just didn't care.Nonetheless I don't know why Wendy didn't think to just own her position as queen and override the rules and prejudices about royalty and Trackers being together is beyond me! That seemed like the more obvious solution, but hey I guess we needed more conflict or maybe Wendy is just that oblivious. *shrugs* But I did really enjoy Wendy in later books. She showed great character development. I loved that she stepped up and took over the role of acting queen for her mother. I was also happy that we finally got to see more of Queen Elora and the story of Wendy's birth. Elora wasn't just this cold-hearted woman that we all thought she was. She truly did love Wendy and just wanted to protect her. I only wish we could have had more time to see them together! 

“I know you’ll be a good Queen, a strong, noble leader, and that’s more than

these people deserve,” she said. “But don’t give too much. You need to keep some

of yourself for you. And listen to your heart.”

Now let's talk about one of my absolute favorite characters, Loki Staad. Loki, Loki, Loki, where do I even begin with this beautiful, charming, sarcastic, cocky, wonderful guy? *sigh* He is just wonderful. I don't think I've enjoyed a character more in this series as I did him. Every scene with him was great. He brought giggles and swoons every time he appeared on the page. He had some of the best lines in the series that always just made me laugh and say "Oh, Loki"
“Everything’s not exactly the way it seems ” I said. 
“It seemed like you had your tongue down his throat ” Finn glared at us both. 
“Well then everything is exactly as it seems” Loki said glibly.” 
 Loki was such a complex character. Underneath his cocky attitude, jokes, and sarcastic nature, you saw true depth. He gave up everything to protect Wendy. He put his life on the line to secure her safety. He defied orders to make sure she was safe and never forced her into doing anything she didn't want to do. Even if the evil, Vittra King would have killed him if he didn't succeed. I think that's what truly won me over to his side.  Whereas Wendy felt conflicted about her position and status or following orders, Loki proved that she was more important. He'd do whatever it took for her. I think that's what made him win in the end as well. 

"Everything I went through. For you. It was worth it."

Finn on the other hand...well he made me so angry! He and Wendy could have had a great relationship if he had shown any effort at all! He didn't fight for Wendy. He didn't stand up for himself. All he did was stand aside and let whatever fly by and take his chance at happiness with her. She tried countless times to try to fix what they had (if they actually had anything to begin with) but he wouldn't have it. Now I know there are those that liked Wendy and Finn together better and I mean no harm but I just think he was all wrong for her. He would always see himself as a Tracker and value his position. He would protect her life at all costs, but that's where their relationship would always end. I wished he would have fought to be with her no matter his status, but he didn't. On the eve of her Wedding to Tove. Finn knew he would never have her and instead of just telling her "hey don't do this. I love you and want to be the one you're with. let's make this work." No. He would rather her be in a friendship marriage with a gay guy! A gay guy who wouldn't give her the love that she deserves, but hey as long as she's with him it's fine because I can trust him. Because damn if I'll ever see her with someone who might actually make her happy.

"Tomorrow you will belong to someone else. But tonight, you're with me." UUUUUGGGGGHHHHHHH *rolles eyes*

Speaking of Tove....how cute was he? I just loved him so much. He was a great friend to Wendy and even a great husband. He helped her get control and strengthen her powers. He helped make her the powerful Trylle she became and I loved their friendship. He looked out for her. He was her partner and always supported her no matter what. He wanted what made her happy and did whatever she felt she needed to do. He would also defy laws and orders to make sure she was happy or simply to just do the right thing. I think that's what baffled Wendy the most. Tove would defy orders for her sake, and Loki, but Finn wouldn't. I just think it's so great that Hocking made Tove gay. I thought this was a nice touch and it make me love him even more. 

Now The Vittra King. What a load of jerk with a side of doucheface. I hated him. I hated who he actually was and how he just wanted to use Wendy. He was just terrible and I am so glad for his ending and that Wendy got her chance at him! Because this man just really needed to get out of here!

Overall, I really, really, really  enjoyed this series. The first book was okay, but I loved the last two. We got to see more of the Vittra and their hobgoblins and what exactly they wanted Wendy for or why their kingdom was crumbling. However, I did think that the ending to Ascend happened kind of quickly and I would have loved to see the other battles that happened outside of what we saw, but I understood why we didn't. Wendy didn't see it, so we didn't either. All in all I really loved this series. I enjoyed reading about the troubles going on in the Trylle community, learning about their powers and taking a look into the prejudices between the Markis/Marksinna and trackers or mansklig. But those prejudices have got to go! (Let's start with Aurora! That woman needs to get her priorities in order).  I love Amanda Hocking and the worlds she brings. I have read her self-published series My Blood Approves and I look forward to reading more of her novels.

Happy reading!