Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell

FYI: Rowell is pronounced like a towel. R.R. said so. 
Genre: YA Romance
Pages: 328
Type: Standalone
Goodreads Rating: 4.18 Avg
Published: 12-April-2012
My Rating: 5/5
Synopsis: Two misfits.
One extraordinary love.

Eleanor
... Red hair, wrong clothes. Standing behind him until he turns his head. Lying beside him until he wakes up. Making everyone else seem drabber and flatter and never good enough...Eleanor.

Park... He knows she'll love a song before he plays it for her. He laughs at her jokes before she ever gets to the punch line. There's a place on his chest, just below his throat, that makes her want to keep promises...Park.

Set over the course of one school year, this is the story of two star-crossed sixteen-year-olds—smart enough to know that first love almost never lasts, but brave and desperate enough to try.


Review: 
 
 Oh, my god. This book is perfection. Literally. I am so glad I decided to read it now. At the end of the year. What a great way to end 2014! 
  
  Where to start? (I could rave about this book forever. But I'm not since you want a review.) I loved the characters, both Eleanor and Park. They were just average, normal kids. Nothing extraordinary, nothing super hot. But that's what made the book super super hot. Eleanor did have a bit of a stubborn streak, the sort that got a bit frustrating at times. But not the kind like Bella. You know which Bella. It was just her nature, she was insecure, she was fat, or so she felt. She was the target of mean kids. You know? That sort of thing. Which made her seem so relatable. 

  I loved the fact that Park was Asian. I'm from Asia. And ok, not Korea, but still. Asia. So when writers write about someone Asian, I just feel so proud of who I am. And trust me, this does not happen often. Park was the kind of guy who himself was confused. Again, that's what made him relatable. Park's family was also a bunch of people I loved. I reveled in their normality. Is that a word? So good...

  And then, I loved, loved, Eleanor and Park together. They were like the sun and the moon. Which, doesn't make sense. But let's just go with it. 

  Let's talk about the writing. Just like Fangirl, Rainbow Rowell has an amazing ability to weave letters into words, and words into sentences. I'm not even gonna talk about it because, just because. It's so good... 

  I found myself completely immersed in the story. I sped through it. It made me laugh, and cry, and go all gooey because of the complete adorableness that is Eleanor and Park. They are so cute together! And I don't know why, but this little bit made me laugh and laugh. I don't know. Maybe I'm crazy. Okay. So Eleanor and Park go to a park. Jeez, I didn't realize that before. The 'park' thing. There Eleanor says, "Oh look. Swans"
Park says, "I think those are geese." Lol
So Elenaor says, "Well, they're the best looking geese I've ever seen"
Doesn't that just make you laugh out loud? Lol. It does to me. 

  So all I'm going to say is that you need to read this book. Guys. Read it. 

Monday, December 29, 2014

The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks

Genre: Adult Romance Fiction
Pages: 326
Type: Standalone
Goodreads Rating: 4.07 Avg
Published: 2007
My Rating: 3/5
Synopsis: When U.S. Marine Logan Thibault finds a photograph of a smiling young woman half-buried in the dirt during his third tour of duty in Iraq, his first instinct is to toss it aside. Instead, he brings it back to the base for someone to claim, but when no one does, he finds himself always carrying the photo in his pocket. Soon Thibault experiences a sudden streak of luck—winning poker games and even surviving deadly combat that kills two of his closest buddies. Only his best friend, Victor, seems to have an explanation for his good fortune: the photograph—his lucky charm.
Back home in Colorado, Thibault can’t seem to get the photo—and the woman in it—out of his mind. Believing that she somehow holds the key to his destiny, he sets out on a journey across the country to find her, never expecting the strong but vulnerable woman he encounters in Hampton, North Carolina—Elizabeth, a divorced mother with a young son—to be the girl he’s been waiting his whole life to meet. Caught off guard by the attraction he feels, Thibault keeps the story of the photo, and his luck, a secret. As he and Elizabeth embark upon a passionate and all-consuming love affair, the secret he is keeping will soon threaten to tear them apart—destroying not only their love, but also their lives.
Filled with tender romance and terrific suspense, The Lucky One is Nicholas Sparks at his best—an unforgettable story about the surprising paths our lives often take and the power of fate to guide us to true and everlasting love.

My Review: 

 So I don't think I've ever read anything Nicholas Sparks. And, I have to say, I was a bit disappointed. Maybe it was because it is an adult book or maybe just because it wasn't my cup of tea. It wasn't completely hopeless. I mean, I did enjoy parts of the book. 

  I personally found myself getting bored with a lot of parts of the book. There were like, little paragraphs devoted to the time Logan had in the army. I found those a bit interesting in the beginning, but slowly I just got really annoyed with them.

  I have to say though, that the book was very family orientative. Beth's little son, Ben and her grandmother, Nana were quite important parts of the book. I found Nana really funny since she had these weird metaphors up her sleeve. Like, He's as good as a duck on a stick. Lol. She was extremely funny. 

  But honestly, I wasn't too attached to the book. I didn't care too much about what happened to the characters and I didn't feel connected to any part of the story. It was also very unrealistic. Because, no one ever walks kilometers for a woman in a picture that they found in the sand randomly. No one does that. Especially, when they don't even have any solid leads to the person. 

  So, as you can tell, I feel like I have some pretty good points up as to why I didn't enjoy the book completely. Nevertheless, I probably just had bad luck with the book. 


Wednesday, December 24, 2014

Library Haul #1

Hey guys! So I never do hauls because I had a channel. But now, since I don't post videos anymore, I thought: why not do a blog post book haul? So that's exactly what I'm doing today! Hope you like it!

This is a library book haul. I barely ever buy books, so these are all books that I'm having for a limited period. 


There are nine books I got: (Forgive me for the blurred picture :/ )

1. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J. K. Rowling(currently reading)
2. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon (really excited for this one!) 
3. Days of Blood and Starlight by Laini Taylor (2nd book in a trilogy. Very promising, the first book. Lots of hype about this one I've heard.)
4. Reality Boy by A. S. King. (LOVED her book Ask the Passengers. Wanted to read her other books!)
5. Hollow City by Ransom Riggs. (Really interesting, the first book was. Been wanting to read the sequel ever since.) 
6. Fallen by Lauren Kate. (Borrowed this one mainly because of the many times I've seen it on booktubers' shelves)
7. Beastly by Alex Flinn. (Recently read it. Did a review too. Fairytale Retelling, this one.)
8. Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell. (Don't like that cover color too much as opposed to the off-whitish one. Lots of hype. Very excited!)
9. Little Bee by Chris Cleave. (Heard Regan from PeruseProject talk about it. Plus the synopsis is very mysterious.)

So there you have it! All the books I borrowed along with a little bit of what I think about them. Hope you're satisfied. Also, let me know if you'd like me to start a video series. 

Monday, December 22, 2014

Beastly by Alex Flinn

I went to the library! Can you believe it?! And I read a book in a day! *sing song voice* My Intro lines are getting way too lame. :/ ;)
Genre: YA Fairytale Retelling 
Pages: 304
Type: Standalone 
Goodreads Rating: 3.85 Avg
Published: 2 Oct 2007
My Rating: 4/5 
Synopsis: I am a beast.

A beast. Not quite wolf or bear, gorilla or dog but a horrible new creature who walks upright--a creature with fangs and claws and hair springing from every pore. I am a monster.

You think I'm talking fairy tales? No way. The place is New York City. The time is now. It's no deformity, no disease. And I'll stay this way forever--ruined--unless I can break the spell.

Yes, the spell, the one the witch in my English class cast on me. Why did she turn me into a beast who hides by day and prowls by night? I'll tell you. I'll tell you how I used to be Kyle Kingsbury, the guy you wished you were, with money, perfect looks, and the perfect life. And then, I'll tell you how I became perfectly . . . beastly.

Review: 

  This book was turned into a movie, ya guys! And Alex Pettyfer is in it! *swoon*

  So. The book was a modern fairytale Retelling of the Beauty and the Beast. I think the story took a new take by focusing on Beast instead of Beauty. Our Beast is named Kyle and he's this hot, arrogant, rich guy who treats poor and ugly people like crap. And so, this witch casts a spell on him. He'll be a beast forever unless within two years he finds true love and gets a kiss from her. 
 
  I really liked the fact that Alex focused on Kyle. I'm not going to tell who Beauty was, since it's very interesting to find out who Beauty is on your own. 

  I really liked the fact that there was some sort of hidden goal behind the story. It was about how you nobody is less. It taught Kyle a lesson that you know, ugly people exist and it is not supposed to be a problem. Nobody is perfect and just because you are pretty on the inside means you're pretty on the inside too. Like I said, I liked how it had a greater goal. 

  Now what made me deduce a star was that, the book wasn't anything different than the fairytale. The only difference I found was the time change. Otherwise, there wasn't much difference. 

  Also, the book lacked in humor. It wasn't like, entirely dark and sad and stuff. But it did not have any lightness to it. Although, I did enjoy the characters quite a bit. My favorite character would have to be Will. He was Kyle's tutor. Blind. I really enjoyed his company. Dunno why, but he had a soothing character. 

  Which, brings me to my other issue, the characters did get a bit annoying at times or the story would just drag on. Something, that no one ever enjoys. 

  Overall, I enjoyed the book, not the best out there, though. Albeit, if you're into fairytale Retelling, you might enjoy the book. Or even if you're into romance. Because, by God, this one made my heart ache. 





Thursday, December 18, 2014

Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

Wow. Look at that eye! (What a lame beginning...)
Genre: YA Dystopian/Romance
Pages: 338
Type: #1 in Shatter Me Trilogy
Goodreads Rating: 4.04 Avg
Published: 15 Nov 2011
My Rating: 5/5 Stars
Synopsis: I have a curse
I have a gift

I am a monster
I'm more than human

My touch is lethal
My touch is power

I am their weapon
I will fight back

Juliette hasn’t touched anyone in exactly 264 days.

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

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

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


My Review: 

Woah. What an intense book! I honestly have like, nothing but good things to talk about this book. But, let's not be bias. I had a wonderful time reading this one. Read it in like, hours! All the rave about this book is completely right! 
  It had all these plot twists that I enjoyed extremely. You know, you never knew what was around the corner. I enjoyed the writing tremendously. It was one of the first things I noticed and what stayed with me through out the book. Writing is one of the most important things in a book. If you're writing is a hit, I think it's safe to say your book is a hit too. I really found the whole striking things out unique. I don't think I've ever read a book with strikes. It makes the reading experience more reader friendly and interesting. 
  I also loved the characters. They went through quite a lot of development over the span of the book. Who they were in the beginning, they weren't in the end. And I absolutely loved the love triangle thing! I'm a sadistic person and a lot of times, I want something to happen with the villain of the book. It makes things all the more interesting. Obviously, in the end, I want things to end well. But that does not mean it's bad to hope for some action, you feel me? I'm super confused between Adam and Warner. We'll see where the story goes. 
  We did see a bit of world development, which was good. My problem was that it was a bit too in the end of the book. The book just ended so abruptly leaving the reader hanging. Makes you crave for the next book. 

Wednesday, December 3, 2014

The Duff by Kody Keplinger

Sheesh, guys. I'm SO sorry I didn't do a review in like, ages. Just haven't been in the mood to, with exams and things. But well, better late than never, right?
Genre: YA Contemporary Romance
Pages: 280
Type: Standalone
Goodreads Rating: 3.93
Published: 1-Jan-2010
My Rating: 4/5 
Synopsis: Seventeen-year-old Bianca Piper is cynical and loyal, and she doesn’t think she’s the prettiest of her friends by a long shot. She’s also way too smart to fall for the charms of man-slut and slimy school hottie Wesley Rush. In fact, Bianca hates him. And when he nicknames her “the Duff,” she throws her Coke in his face. 

But things aren’t so great at home right now, and Bianca is desperate for a distraction. She ends up kissing Wesley. Worse, she likes it. Eager for escape, Bianca throws herself into a closeted enemies-with-benefits relationship with him. 

Until it all goes horribly awry. It turns out Wesley isn’t such a bad listener, and his life is pretty screwed up, too. Suddenly Bianca realizes with absolute horror that she’s falling for the guy she thought she hated more than anyone.

Review: 
  First off, what does that cover even mean?! As far as my memory goes, and, since I just finished this book, goes pretty well, there was zero reference to bubblegum. The girl, I get. Bbg, do not understand I.  
 
 Anyways, the book itself was quite good. It was your typical NA book without explicit scenes. Except here, we're talking about the female protagonist actually making the first move and using the guy. Plot twist right there. It was a good one, I have to say. The plot was quite interesting and the title of the book really drew me in. 

  I wanna say the writing style wasn't bad either. It wasn't unique either, though. What honestly made me take down that one star, was the way the book almost seemed to drag at times and, the characters. You see, characters, are the one of the fundamental organs of a book. You need to have good and strong characters since they are the story. It's through them that you get to know a story. It all comes down to them. You have to have strong protagonists in your story. And, I don't think that Biance, the main protagonist is the best. She has had her moments, but they weren't enough to cover her flaws. Don't get me wrong, nobody is flawless. But hers were a bit too annoying at times. She would get worked up over the smallest of things and I just didn't agree to the way she'd keep putting things off. Saying how it's not her place to say anything about it. You know. Running away from things. Uh, they were a bit annoying.

I also felt like we readers didn't get to know too much of Wesly. So that sucked. Cuz you always wanna know your boy. I do think though, that the side characters were really great! I loved them and just... Really liked how the story didn't just focus on Wesly. It integrated family and friends in too, which, to be honest, you don't see around too much. 

The whole story, seemed to get a bit boring at times though. Because in more places than one, you'll hear Bianca saying how she can't stop thinking about Wesley and then suddenly thinking how she should be disgusted by him. And I never got why she was so mean to him and hated him so much! He never did anything to her, I believe. Just because he's a player doesn't mean you go all hardcore hate on them when they did no wrong to you!

Overall, I liked the book a lot and can't wait for the movie to come out! If you like YA with a lot of swearing and sass, this book is for you! 

Monday, November 17, 2014

Slammed by Colleen Hoover

Yeah! Finally! Another review! 
Genre: NA Contemporary Romance
Pages: 317
Type: #1 in Slammed Trilogy
Goodreads Rating: 4.33
Published: 4 Jan 2012
My Rating: 4/5 Stars 
Synopsis: Following the unexpected death of her father, 18-year-old Layken is forced to be the rock for both her mother and younger brother. Outwardly, she appears resilient and tenacious, but inwardly, she's losing hope.

Enter Will Cooper: The attractive, 21-year-old new neighbor with an intriguing passion for slam poetry and a unique sense of humor. Within days of their introduction, Will and Layken form an intense emotional connection, leaving Layken with a renewed sense of hope.

Not long after an intense, heart-stopping first date, they are slammed to the core when a shocking revelation forces their new relationship to a sudden halt. Daily interactions become impossibly painful as they struggle to find a balance between the feelings that pull them together, and the secret that keeps them apart.


Review: 
  The book was honestly wonderful! I thought it was a great read. Not too emotional and I needed something exactly like it. I did have some problems with the book though. For starters, the book is NA, or rather, supposed to be. But you didn't really see anything NA in the book except for the ages. 18 and 21. Obviously, from that synopsis. So I had an issue with that. Though that was not my main issue. 

  What stood out to me was how fast their barely there relationship escalated. Too fast paced for a romantic read and I honestly didn't like that about it. It was almost like love at first sight. Almost. I mean, who misses a person within three days? Who? I think I'd call it a bit too fast escalating. So that led to unrealisticness. Is that even a word? (Educate me, please) Which I'm having a big issue over these days. But seriously, as time passes and you get into the story, the whole problem doesn't really irk you. It almost feels right. Almost, again. 

  This is actually the main reason I cut off a star.

   Let's be a little positive and talk about the things that were great about the book! For one thing, I really liked that the minor characters had places in the book and it wasn't completely focused on the main two characters. And I guess, it's because of the fact that there was this huge problem thing and that the story was told in Layken's POV. I liked that. 

  The book also focuses on a lot of slam poetry--which is what the book is named after, duh--and again, I really liked that. It didn't seem like it was only one person writing all the poems. So I think Colleen did a great job there. Plus, I loved all the Avett Brothers references. I didn't know they even existed before the I read the book, but I love it when authors give references to people they love. It's so sweet. Someone ought to tell the Avett Brothers about Colleen. 

  And there were a couple wise words thrown in here and there and I loved that. I also loved how some clauses and phrases stuck throughout the book. Like, 'carving pumpkins', 'just like that, she was gone.', 'that's not a good idea'. My personal favorite the last one. 

All in all, the book is a wonderful one and I'm really interested in reading the sequel. And oh, I love how this trilogy is actually a trilogy and not a companion trilogy like a lot of NAs are out there. 

  If you love romance dealing with adults without explicitness and all that, and some good sexual tension, I think this book is definitely for you. 

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken

Soooo... No excuse... I'm sorry I haven't posted reviews on the last three books I read. I'm terrible... But sorry!
Genre: YA Dystopian 
Pages: 488
Type: #1 in The Darkest Minds Trilogy 
Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
Synopsis: When Ruby woke up on her tenth birthday, something about her had changed. Something alarming enough to make her parents lock her in the garage and call the police. Something that gets her sent to Thurmond, a brutal government “rehabilitation camp.” She might have survived the mysterious disease that’s killed most of America’s children, but she and the others have emerged with something far worse: frightening abilities they cannot control.

Now sixteen, Ruby is one of the dangerous ones.

When the truth comes out, Ruby barely escapes Thurmond with her life. Now she’s on the run, desperate to find the one safe haven left for kids like her—East River. She joins a group of kids who escaped their own camp. Liam, their brave leader, is falling hard for Ruby. But no matter how much she aches for him, Ruby can’t risk getting close. Not after what happened to her parents.

When they arrive at East River, nothing is as it seems, least of all its mysterious leader. But there are other forces at work, people who will stop at nothing to use Ruby in their fight against the government. Ruby will be faced with a terrible choice, one that may mean giving up her only chance at a life worth living.


Review: 
  This book was totally over-hyped. To me. I got into the book thinking way too high of it and ended up not being completely satisfied. The book was great, but it would have been much better had people not been raving SO much about it. 
  The writing, in my opinion, wasn't too unique. Generally dystopians have very unique writing styles; this one, not so much. It was just average to me. Also, atmospheres would suddenly change. From super-sad to super-happy. No buliding up to it, nothing. Just, abruptly. It didn't feel real. 
 Another thing, I didn't feel emotionally connected to the characters. I didn't feel connected to them at all. It was as if I was watching a badly directed film. People cried in the end apparently. I didn't shed a drop of tear. I didn't even get teary-eyed. Doesn't mean I'm hard-hearted though. Like I said, there was no emotional connection. 
  I wasn't blown away by the book in the first 200 pages, nor the rest, like my friend had told me I would. Apart from all that, I think the book did a good job. I just wish I'd gone into it without so much expectation. Maybe then, I would have devoured it. 
  Although, I am interested in knowing what happens since I did enjoy the plot. The book was definitely on the fast-paced side and I loved that about it. If you like dystopian, with a romantic twist to it, definitely check the book out. Just don't go into it expecting too much, and you'll love it!

Friday, October 31, 2014

The One by Kiera Cass

THERE'S A FOURTH BOOK?! Say what?! 
Genre: YA Dystopian Romance
Pages: 323
Type: #3 in The Selection Trilogy
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Synopsis: The time has come for one winner to be crowned.

When she was chosen to compete in the Selection, America never dreamed she would find herself anywhere close to the crown—or to Prince Maxon's heart. But as the end of the competition approaches, and the threats outside the palace walls grow more vicious, America realizes just how much she stands to lose—and how hard she'll have to fight for the future she wants.


Review:
  Anything but what I expected! It was so good! There were so many surprising moments and times when I was just speechless! Thank god America wasn't whiny this time! Lol! Am I the only one laughing at my joke? I think I am...
  Anyways, the book was SOOOO good! Also, that gown is drop-dead gorgeous! Also, I'm feeling so sleepy right now... 
  There were so many things that just suddenly came upon you and I personally don't think I need to say anything more than the fact that the trilogy has come to a close on a fabulous note! I don't think I could've asked for a better ending. 

The Elite by Kiera Cass

Aaaaah! I suck at blogging! 
Genre: YA Dystopian Romance 
Pages: 336
Type: #2 in The Selection Trilogy
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Synopsis: The Selection began with thirty-five girls.
Now with the group narrowed down to the six Elite, the competition to win Prince Maxon's heart is fiercer than ever—and America is still struggling to decide where her heart truly lies. Is it with Maxon, who could make her life a fairy tale? Or with her first love, Aspen?

America is desperate for more time. But the rest of the Elite know exactly what they want—and America's chance to choose is about to slip away.


Review: 
   The book was pretty good. No denying that. What I didn't like was how America didn't seem to be taking a decision. At one point, it got too much. Should I choose him, or not? It got so irritating that it took me to a point where I just groaned straight out. It was THAT bad. To me. 
  Anyways, other than that, I feel like the book earned pretty decent opinions from me. I cried at a point cuz something was just too harsh. I was so angry and I felt consumed by this anger. I found myself actually feeling upset and overwhelmed. As if I was there. So good job on that, Kiera. 
  There wasn't much world building. I guess because there wasn't much to build in the world. So yeah. I honestly enjoyed the book, but it does spoil the reading experience since America was whiny throughout most part of the book. But I definitely recommend it to someone having second thoughts about the book. 

Thursday, October 30, 2014

The Selection by Kiera Cass

Sooooo.... I know! I'm sorry I haven't been posting anything on here for a while. I've just been so busy and.... Whatever! Let's get on! 
Genre: YA Dystopian 
Pages: 336
Type: #1 in The Selection Trilogy
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Synopsis: For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in a palace and compete for the heart of gorgeous Prince Maxon.

But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.

Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself--and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.


Review: 
  Not much to say about the book other than the fact that I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It was just such a quick and interesting read! The world was very nicely woven and everything. Although I do wish there was more action in it. But I guess you can't really say that since it IS a romance book. But still... Overall I do think the book was excellent. The characters were super interesting to read about as well. I think that anyone who enjoys somewhat love triangles, romance and dystopian minus action, will enjoy the book! 

Saturday, October 25, 2014

The Giver by Lois Lowry

Now I know why this book became a movie, and I'm super happy Taylor Swift is in it!
Genre: YA Dystopian 
Pages: 224
Type: #1 in The Giver Quartet
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Synopsis: It's a perfect world, where everything looks right. But ugly truths lie beneath the surface... 

It is the future. There is no war, no hunger, no pain. No one in The Community wants for anything. Everyone is provided for. Each Family Unit is entitled to one female and male child. Each member of The Community has their profession carefully chosen for them by the Committee of Elders, and they never make a mistake. 

Jonas, a sensitive twelve-year-old boy, had never thought there was anything wrong with his Community, until one day. From the moment Jonas is selected as the Receiver of Memory at The Ceremony, his life is never the same. Jonas discovers that The Community is not as perfect as it seems. Although they appear to have everything, they are missing something of great importance. It is up to Jonas, with the help of the Giver, to find what long ago had been lost. And so Jonas embarks on an adventure to save the world as he knows it. 

Simply and beautifully written, The Giver is sure to touch the heart of every reader. Lois Lowry deals with issues of everyday life that are so often taken for granted. Through the noble character of Jonas, she presents a glimpse of what could be the future. As the tension in the novel mounts, so does the number of questions that Lowry confronts the reader with. The Giver is a book of courage and adventure, and most importantly, one of deep thought. Once readers make contact with Lowry's treasure, they may never see things exactly quite the same. Lowry presents a forceful novel that demands to be heard and philosophically dealt with.


Review: 
   I finished it in like a day and a half or so and I was really impressed. Mainly because I thought people in the 1990s couldn't picture the future as something so organized and just... freaky and dystopian. I know. Kinda racist. 
   But not any more!
  The world of the future was so fantastically woven together and made, I was surprised! Although I overall loved the book, I don't think I really liked the writing style of the book. Maybe that's just because  I read the book after finishing Daughter of Smoke and Bone. And if you've read it, you know it's got some pretty darn amazing writing in the whole of existence (it's called hyperbole, guys.) So... Yeah. I guess it was because of that since the book was actually meant to be for kids. In what--just saying-- angle does this book seem like it is for children?! I mean, come on, who talks about freaking Stirrings in a children's book? No one. That's who. 
  Anyways, I'm not degrading the book or anything, just saying what I feel. 
  I absolutely loved the characters and the Giver, obviously. And there was a little baby, a baby. 

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor

Oh my gosh! What an amazing book! 

Genre: YA Fantasy 
Pages: 418
Type: #1 in Daughter of Smoke and Bone Trilogy 
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Synopsis: 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?

Review: 
  Words can't express what I feel for this book... They can't. This book was so amazingly written, the world was created so wonderfully and the writing was so expressive. Like, I like to read books out loud, and this book actually allowed me to feel the feelings. Love, hatred, compassion, brutality, everything. That was how good this book was. And oh, the characters, what amazing ones. Like, nothing was overdone or underdone. It was perfect. They should seriously make a movie out of this trilogy! 
  You kinda switched back and forth between time towards the end, and that was super interesting to read about. And oh... The ending! The cliffhanger! I am SO looking forward to reading the next book! 


Hades by Alexandra Adornetto

It should've been ages since I'd written this review, but... I'm only just coming around to writing it! :/
Genre: YA Paranormal Romance 
Pages: 424 
Type: #2 in Halo Trilogy
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Synopsis: Heaven Help Her.

Bethany Church is an angel sent to Earth to keep dark forces at bay. Falling in love was never part of her mission, but the bond between Beth and her mortal boyfriend, Xavier Woods, is undeniably strong. But even Xavier’s love, and the care of her archangel siblings, Gabriel and Ivy, can’t keep Beth from being tricked into a motorcycle ride that ends up in Hell. There, the demon Jake Thorn bargains for Beth’s release back to Earth. But what he asks of her will destroy her, and quite possibly, her loved ones, as well.

Review: 
  Better than previous book. It didn't have so much of instant love this time around (thank god!) In my opinion, it did drag a bit but overall enjoyable. There was a lot of character development and you got to imagine what Hell looks like, which is what Hades means, I case you didn't know. 
  There was actually a huge test and there were angels fighting demons and it was all quite interesting. The story got to be good actually. And I definitely recommend it to you if you were having second thoughts about reading it. 

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Ask the Passengers by A.S. King.

Is it proof enough of how amazing this book is that I finished it in less than a day? I think it is. 
Genre: YA Contemporary 
Pages: 304
Type: Standalone
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Synopsis: Astrid Jones desperately wants to confide in someone, but her mother's pushiness and her father's lack of interest tell her they're the last people she can trust. Instead, Astrid spends hours lying on the backyard picnic table watching airplanes fly overhead. She doesn't know the passengers inside, but they're the only people who won't judge her when she asks them her most personal questions--like what it means that she's falling in love with a girl.

As her secret relationship becomes more intense and her friends demand answers, Astrid has nowhere left to turn. She can't share the truth with anyone except the people at thirty thousand feet, and they don't even know she's there. But little does Astrid know just how much even the tiniest connection will affect these strangers' lives--and her own--for the better.

In this truly original portrayal of a girl struggling to break free of society's definitions, Printz Honor author A.S. King asks readers to question everything--and offers hope to those who will never stop seeking real love.

Review: 
  Phenomenal. Touched my heart. Really. It was superb. The writing style was amazing and Astrid, the main character was so realistic. Infact, this was one of the most realistic books I've read in a pretty long time. I guess I'm getting into realism these days. 
 Anyways, the book made me feel connected to it somehow. I guess I just felt super understanding towards Astrid's life. It just... I can't talk about this book I don't know, I just can't. 
 All I'm gonna say is that Astrid is right about society's labels and I'm sick of it. And the book is fantabulous. 

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

So, god knows how I'm going to write this review spoiler-free, but I will. Because if Celaena is an assasin, I can be a blogger. (That was so lame... :P)
Genre: YA Fantasy Series
Pages: 404
Type: #1 in Throne of Glass Series
Rating: 5/5 Glassy Stars
Synopsis: After serving out a year of hard labor in the salt mines of Endovier for her crimes, 18-year-old assassin Celaena Sardothien is dragged before the Crown Prince. Prince Dorian offers her her freedom on one condition: she must act as his champion in a competition to find a new royal assassin. Her opponents are men-thieves and assassins and warriors from across the empire, each sponsored by a member of the king's council. If she beats her opponents in a series of eliminations, she'll serve the kingdom for three years and then be granted her freedom. 

Celaena finds her training sessions with the captain of the guard, Westfall, challenging and exhilarating But she's bored stiff by court life. Things get a little more interesting when the prince starts to show interest in her... but it's the gruff Captain Westfall who seems to understand her best. 

Then one of the other contestants turns up dead... quickly followed by another. 

Can Celaena figure out who the killer is before she becomes a victim? As the young assassin investigates, her search leads her to discover a greater destiny than she could possibly have imagined.

Review:
  This is so weird cuz I'm doing this on the computer in school. I keep forgetting that 2 spacebar hits don't give a fullstop. And that there's no autocorrect. Sucks, I know. Buuut... the whole point is to make you guys happy and be happy myself. So I'mma do this. 
  First off, what amazing characters and world! Just wow! The world feels so real and you can just imagine everything. I don;t get why its not a movie yet. I just... I just don't. The world building and character building was phenomenal. I loved how there was a map made so that you could refer to it. 
  I loved Celaena. She was just such a kickass character and she is so bold and strong. I liked how the other characters were just super-realistic. Practical. 
  I liked how Maas made this air of mystery and just... you felt what the characters felt. What they were going through, you know? I've never shut a book and paused because I felt so aggravated. I felt like reaching in and helping. That has never happened to me before and I honestly don;t get how a book could get better. I just don't. Definitely going on my list of best books in 2014. 

Thursday, October 9, 2014

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs.

Take a minute and admire the name of the book and the author. Oh, and did I mention the creepy-but-captivating cover? I don't think I did. So give some time to that as well. Good. Now let's get on with the review. 
Genre: YA Fantasy
Pages: 352
Type: #1 in Series? Duology? Trilogy? Name? Don't know. 
Rating: 5/5 peculiar stars
Synopsis: 16-year-old Jacob has discovered the ruins of Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children. As Jacob explores the abandoned building, he realises that the children were more than just peculiar - they may have been dangerous. And somehow - impossible though it seems - they may still be alive.

Review: 
  First off, there are pictures in this book. Pictures! Vintage ones. How cool?! So the book was a bit weird. Good weird, though. It was just really captivating and interesting. The premise was neat and very intriguing. It makes anyone pick the book. So that's good. 
  The whole book was really realistic. I know what you're thinking. Aisha. That's fantasy. No fantasy could ever be realistic. But somehow, call me crazy, the book was realistic. Jacob's life before discovering the island was very realistic. The writing was realistic. The characters were realistic. So really, it was realistic. And I just used the word "realistic" 7 times, now 8. Time to move on. 
  There were pretty freaky and scary and gruesome parts. Even I cringed. And there certainly were some mysterious things and secrets about. So that was pretty interesting to read about. 
  There's also a tinge of romance in it, so romance cravers like myself wouldn't starve. And that's about it. It's pretty interesting overall and a quick read. Anyone would like it and I definitely recommend bit to you, you and you. 



Monday, October 6, 2014

Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini

Twilight Alert! Twilight Alert! Reminder of Twilight this book!
Genre: YA Fantasy Romance 
Pages: 500
Type: #1 in Starcrossed Trilogy
Rating: 4/5 stars 
Synopsis: Destiny brought them together.
The gods will keep them apart.

When shy, awkward Helen Hamilton meets Lucas Delos for the first time, she thinks two things: the first, that he is the most ridiculously beautiful boy she has seen in her life; the second, that she wants to kill him with her bare hands.
An ancient curse means Lucas and Helen are destined to loathe one another. But sometimes love is stronger than hate, and not even the gods themselves can prevent what will happen next...


REVIEW: 
So I've been looking at a bunch of reviews on this book on goodreads. And I don't know how people haven't noticed this flaw. Um, by the beginning of the review, you might have guessed it has something to do with twilight. Um, that's because it's SO similar to Twilight. There's Alice in Twilight, who can look into the future. And there's Cassandra who can look into the future as well. There's Bella, who lives with her Dad alone. And there's Helen who lives alone with her dad. Small towns in both books. Bella later in the series had to learn how to fight. So there was all the practicing. Helen had to learn to fight as well. There was Emmett who loved a good fight. And there's Hector who loves a good fight. WHAT?! Please tell me you didn't notice all this. 
 Other than the whole Twilight sham, the book was good. I'm not into greek mythology, so it was a bit confusing to start with, but then it got ok to understand. 

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Slated by Teri Terry

I don't know how I'm gonna write this without singing 'Somebody to You' by The Vamps. Anyhow, you gotta do what you gotta do. 
Genre: YA Dystopia
Pages: 448
Type: #1 in Slated Trilogy
Rating: 5/5 Slated Stars!
Synopsis: Kyla’s memory has been erased,
her personality wiped blank,
her memories lost for ever.

She’s been Slated.

The government claims she was a terrorist and that they are giving her a second chance - as long as she plays by their rules. But echoes of the past whisper in Kyla’s mind. Someone is lying to her, and nothing is as it seems. Who can she trust in her search for the truth?

REVIEW: 
This book guys, this book! It was phenomenal! All the characters were so mysterious! That last line right there in the synopsis. It is SO true. You don't know who to trust and who not to. It's a seat-gripping, fast-paced thriller, guys! I don't even like these kinds of books to start with but I still loved this one. It was just brilliant. You felt like you were seeing everything from Kyla's eyes. 
 And when I read this book, every assumption, every judgement I made on the characters was wrong. Wrong, wrong and more wrong. 
 Kyla was a complex person and so were the people around her. Everyone was complex. Like how all people in reality are. It was a very realistic book, believe it or not. 
 Another thing I really liked about the book was that you got to know everything along with Kyla. So you were like a slated as well. You don't know this world or anything. And one last thing I really found cool was the fact that it was set in 2059. By then I'd be 60 years old. Cool, right?



Sunday, September 28, 2014

Halo by Alexandra Adornetto

Yo Guys! It feels like eternity since I last posted a review. But you know, I had stuff to do and all that... But let's not waste time and jump into the review!
Genre: YA Supernatural aka Angel Romance
Pages: 484
Type: #1 in Halo Trilogy... I think that's what it's called. 
Rating: 3.5/5 stars 
Synopsis: Three angels – Gabriel, the warrior; Ivy, the healer; and Bethany, the youngest and most human – are sent by Heaven to bring good to a world falling under the influence of darkness. They work hard to conceal their luminous glow, superhuman powers, and, most dangerous of all, their wings, all the while avoiding all human attachments.

Then Bethany meets Xavier Woods, and neither of them is able to resist the attraction between them. Gabriel and Ivy do everything in their power to intervene, but the bond between Xavier and Bethany seems too strong.

The angel’s mission is urgent, and dark forces are threatening. Will love ruin Bethany or save her?


REVIEW:
  Ok. Just to get it out there, it was super hard for me to rate this book. I don't know why exactly, but it was. So, I haven't completely made my mind about the rating, but it's somewhere in the neighborhood of 3-4. 
  Great book for someone who was as young as Alexandra when it was written. In case you didn't know, she wrote it when she was 18. So that's pretty darn awesome. Anyways, let's not deviate. The book had a raw kinda feeling to it. It's difficult to explain, but can we just roll with it? Thanks. 
  The characters were really good, except for Beth, who could become pretty annoying at times. But honestly, it was a good book and the ending, guys. The Ending. Do not read this book if you don't have the next book, Hades, in your hands. Cuz guys, the cliffhanger. Too much. Just too much. I need Hades right now. 

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Shopaholic Takes Manhattan by Sophie Kinsella

I know, I know. Old book. Before I was even born. I know. But, still couldn't help reading it! As always, Sophie's books are hilarious! Especially this series!
Genre: Contemporary. 
Pages: 387
Type: #2 in Shopaholic Series
Rating: 4/5 stars
Synopsis: The irresistible heroine of Confessions of a Shopaholic and Shopaholic Ties the Knot is back! And this time Becky Bloomwood and her credit cards are headed across the Atlantic.... 
With her shopping excesses (somewhat) in check and her career as a TV financial guru thriving, Becky's biggest problem seems to be tearing her entrepreneur boyfriend, Luke, away from work for a romantic country weekend. And worse, figuring out how to pack light. But packing takes on a whole new meaning when Luke announces he's moving to New York for business--and he asks Becky to go with him! Before you can say "Prada sample sale," Becky has landed in the Big Apple, home of Park Avenue penthouses and luxury boutiques. 
Surely it's only a matter of time until she becomes an American TV celebrity, and she and Luke are the toast of Gotham society. Nothing can stand in their way, especially with Becky's bills miles away in London. But then an unexpected disaster threatens her career prospects, her relationship with Luke, and her available credit line! Shopaholic Takes Manhattan--but will she have to return it?

REVIEW PORTION: 
 So, obviously, it was har-har. Duh. Cuz, I mean, let's face it. It's Becky Bloomwood. The world's most aggravatingly stupidly hilarious person. Did that even make sense!? Whatever. It has to. Um, so anyway, the writing style guys. Save me. The style was frigging genius. I bet you Kinsella's had to do loads of research on shopping. I'd never thought I'd say that, but I did. Well, technically, write. But, you know what I mean. Back to the point. The descriptions are just... Amazing. Honestly. I got the feel of the entire book. 
 And it's just, you know, the characters make you feel the way they're made for you to feel. You get it? Like, I feel honestly angry at Bex at times because she's just so naïve. And stupid. It's irritating. You feel like reaching in and slapping her hard so she gets some sense into her little head. But then, she's just so likeable. In her own way. I... I don't know how to explain it. 
  Anyways, I loved New York and I loved all the crisis in Bex's life. It's just super interesting. Guys. You have to read it. It's a super light, super quick and super funny read. 

Friday, September 19, 2014

Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver

You guys are lucky. Two reviews in one day! Whatever. Let's get on with it. 
Genre: YA Dystopian 
Pages: 375
Type: #2 in Deliruim Trilogy
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Synopsis: I’m pushing aside
the memory of my nightmare,
pushing aside thoughts of Alex,
pushing aside thoughts of Hana
and my old school,
push,
push,
push,
like Raven taught me to do.
The old life is dead.
But the old Lena is dead too.
I buried her.
I left her beyond a fence,
behind a wall of smoke and fame.

Lauren Oliver delivers an electrifying follow-up to her acclaimed New York Times bestseller, Delirium. This riveting, brilliant novel crackles with the fire of fierce defiance, forbidden romance, and the sparks of a revolution about to ignite.


Mysterious, right? I know. You go into this book knowing nothing. Assuming, sure, that Alex is dead. That's what I did. 
  So the book was very confusing in the beginning because the chapters were divided into 'Now' and 'Then'. So yeah. It was pretty confusing, but you slowly realize what it means. The book was overall super satisfying. It was pretty deep too. Considering Lena before she crossed. Yeah. It was quite deep. 
  I loved the book because there was just so much world development and Lena-Devolopement. Lol. So the characters were well developed. You got to see how people in The Wilds really lived. The effort and hardwork they put into just LIVING. It was pretty sad at times. But, isn't that how life is. Yup, it is. 

Last Sacrifice by Richelle Mead

I'm SO sorry that this is going up so late!!! I don't even have a good reason! But. Now that this is up, let's not waste time and jump right it!
Genre: YA Paranormal Romance
Pages: 594
Type: #6 (and final) in The Vampire Academy Series
Rating: 5/5 Stars!
Synopsis: They come first.

My vision was growing dimmer, the blackness and ghosts closing in. I swore it was like I could hear Robert whispering in my ear: The world of the dead won't give you up a second time. Just before the light completely vanished, I saw Dimitri's face join Lissa's. I wanted to smile. I decided then that if the two people I loved most were safe, I could leave this world.

The dead could finally have me.


Rose Hathaway has always played by her own rules. She broke the law when she ran away from St. Vladimir's Academy with her best friend and last surviving Dragomir princess, Lissa. She broke the law when she fell in love with her gorgeous, off-limits instructor, Dimitri. And she dared to defy Queen Tatiana, leader of the Moroi world, risking her life and reputation to protect generations of dhampir guardians to come.

Now the law has finally caught up with Rose - for a crime she didn't even commit. She's in prison for the highest offense imaginable: the assassination of a monarch. She'll need help from both Dimitri and Adrian to find the one living person who can stall her execution and force the Moroi elite to acknowledge a shocking new candidate for the royal throne: Vasilisa Dragomir.

But the clock on Rose's life is running out. Rose knows in her heart the world of the dead wants her back...and this time she is truly out of second chances. The big question is, when your whole life is about saving others, who will save you?

Join Rose, Dimitri, Adrian, and Lissa in Last Sacrifice, the epic, unforgettable finale to Richelle Mead's international #1 bestselling Vampire Academy series.



Ok. Can the ending of this series be any better?! No. Cuz it's the best! Like, literally! It was that good! I've never laughed out loud, but in Miss Mead's books, oh no, I'll laugh my butt off! The sarcasm is too much!
  Anyways, the book was obviously fantastic. It was just... Wow. The suspense, you know. The shock. Like, you don't even recover from one shock and BAM! Another's hit you! It's crazy, you know. The whole plot, the whole... I don't know. It's just that good. I really don't know what to say about it. You can't say anything about it without spoiling someone. And I've already talked about the characters. How much I love them. I'm just gonna stop. I'm just gonna say this: It. Was. Phenomenal. 
  Now shoo! Go read the book. 

Saturday, September 13, 2014

Spirit Bound by Richelle Mead

Love fades... Honestly, that line broke my heart! I could feel myself choking. All because of one line. But then, Love grows. How ironic. You probably don't get any of it. So long as you haven't read the book. Seriously, you should consider reading it. Don't worry, this is non-spoiler. 
Genre: YA Paranormal Romance
Pages: 489
Type: #5 in The Vampire Academy Series
Rating: 5/5 stars
Synopsis: After a long and heartbreaking journey to Dimitri's birthplace in Siberia, Rose Hathaway has finally returned to St. Vladimir's - and to her best friend, Lissa. It is at long last graduation, and the girls can't wait for their real lives beyond the Academy's iron gates to begin. But Rose's heart still aches for Dimitri, and she knows he's out there, somewhere.

She failed to kill him when she had the chance. And now her worst fears are about to come true. Dimitri has tasted her blood, and now he is hunting her. And this time he won't rest until Rose joins him . . .forever.


First off, who writes these synopsis' on Goodreads? I mean, seriously, they should change that crappy synopsis. 
  Now the book. It was just great! I'm learning that I really like Mead's writing. It's so relatable. Not that I've been in fights with the undead and can see into someone's mind. No. I can't. What I'm talking about are those "oh mans" and curse words. And the sarcasm. Hats off to that sarcasm. Seriously. I mean, you know, Richelle's got me thinking whether she herself is like Rose. You know. Loads of sarcasm. Witty remarks. If not, then wow... How did she do it?
  And the book just makes you feel like you're there. It was fastpaced and the fights. Wow. The fights were so well-written and precise. God. I feel like it all happened with me witnessing it. As in, the description was just that good. 
  Again, Rose just felt even more badass and more desperate and more in love. I love her. So much. I love all the characters. You seriously need to read this book. I'm telling you, though, keep the last book ready with you. Cuz that cliffhanger is... really cliffhangerish... Am I making sense? Hope I am. Toodles. And don't come back until you're done reading it. Ok? Ok. 

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

Blood Promise by Richelle Mead

I feel like it's been weeks since I wrote a post. But now that I'm writing, I'm really excited!!! This is non-spoiler, for those who haven't read this book yet. But for those who haven't read any of the previous books, this might be a tad bit spoilery. 
Genre: YA Paranormal Romance
Pages: 503
Type: #4 in The Vampire Academy Series!
Rating: 4/5 stars
Synopsis: Rose Hathaway's life will never be the same. 

The recent attack on St. Vladimir's Academy devastated the entire Moroi world. Many are dead. And, for the few victims carried off by Strigoi, their fates are even worse. A rare tattoo now adorns Rose's neck, a mark that says she's killed far too many Strigoi to count. But only one victim matters ... Dimitri Belikov. Rose must now choose one of two very different paths: honoring her life's vow to protect Lissa—her best friend and the last surviving Dragomir princess—or, dropping out of the Academy to strike out on her own and hunt down the man she loves. She'll have to go to the ends of the earth to find Dimitri and keep the promise he begged her to make. But the question is, when the time comes, will he want to be saved? 

Now, with everything at stake—and worlds away from St. Vladimir's and her unguarded, vulnerable, and newly rebellious best friend—can Rose find the strength to destroy Dimitri? Or, will she sacrifice herself for a chance at eternal love?


Soooo... I liked the book quite a lot, but it WAS kind of a drag at times. Honestly. Who wants to read a book with barely any of the previous characters surrounding it? So it was a drag at times where I'd just be like "When is Dimitri coming?!" But seriously, he does come. 
  And it was scary. At least for me. I don't know about you! But I'm feeling 22! Sorry. That was just crazy singing from my part. 
  So I really didn't like Dimitri much in the book since he was a Strigoi. He just... freaks me out. You don't really know why he wants Rose at all. Why he just doesn't kill her. Whether he still has feelings for her or not. You know? Lots of unanswered questions. 
  We were introduced to loads of new characters. Most of whom I liked. 
  Also, my love for Adrian grew in this book. As it happens to always. So yeah. 
  You should definitely read the book and once you've read it watch my spoiler discussion on BookTube. My channel is called BookishThoughts. So yeah. I say a lot of those.