Salutations! This is the last post of the night, and it's the next Currently Reading List! *Claps and rubs hands together* Alright, lets get this party started!
The theme of this list will be *drum roll* Paranormal YA Romance 2! This is the second list of PNR books I have done so far, and this current lineup is a good one! Links to all the book go to Goodreads. We've got:
1. Retro Demonology (Demon Trappper's Daughter #0.5) and The Demon Trapper's Daughter (DTD #1) - Jana Oliver
2. Beautiful Creatures (Caster Chronicles #1) - Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl
3. Strange Angels (Strange Angels #1) - Lili St. Crow
4. Paranormalcy (Paranormalcy #1) - Kiersten White
5. Shifting - Bethany Wiggins
6. Unnatural (Archangel Academy #1) - Michael Griffo
7. Carrier of the Mark (Carrier #1) - Leigh Fallon
8. First Frost (Mythos Academy 0.5) and Touch of Frost (Mythos Academy #1) - Jennifer Estep
9. Trial by Fire (Raised by Wolves #2) - Jennifer Lynn Barnes
There y'all have it, these are the books that will hopefully all get read within the near future. Check them out, you might pick up on a great new book/series :)
Until next time, viva la literature!
Monday, November 21, 2011
Review #93: Memento Nora by Angi Smibert
Hello once again everyone! This review will not be a positive one, sadly.
Yet another book getting the Goodreads description treatment:
Yet another book getting the Goodreads description treatment:
In the future, it doesn't pay to remember.
In Nora's world you don't have to put up with nightmares. Nora goes with her mother to TFC--a Therapeutic Forgetting Clinic. There, she can describe her horrible memory and take the pill that will erase it. But at TFC, a chance encounter with a mysterious guy changes Nora's life. She doesn't take the pill. And when Nora learns the memory her mother has chosen to forget, she realizes that someone needs to remember. With newfound friends Micah and Winter, Nora makes a comic book of their memories called Memento. It's an instant hit, but it sets off a dangerous chain of events. Will Nora, Micah, and Winter be forced to take the Big Pill that will erase their memories forever?
In Nora's world you don't have to put up with nightmares. Nora goes with her mother to TFC--a Therapeutic Forgetting Clinic. There, she can describe her horrible memory and take the pill that will erase it. But at TFC, a chance encounter with a mysterious guy changes Nora's life. She doesn't take the pill. And when Nora learns the memory her mother has chosen to forget, she realizes that someone needs to remember. With newfound friends Micah and Winter, Nora makes a comic book of their memories called Memento. It's an instant hit, but it sets off a dangerous chain of events. Will Nora, Micah, and Winter be forced to take the Big Pill that will erase their memories forever?
This book just plain sucked. What's even worse, and I hate to seem whiny about money, is that it was expensive for a NOOKbook. That just makes this book not worth the price I paid. Moving on! The story in concept was so cool. In the end, another one with craptacular prose. It felt just so stereotypical and cartoony. You could not connect with any of the characters at all.
Well, that ends yet another CR list. Will write up the next one as soon as this is posted. See y'all soon!
Until next time, viva la literature!
Review #92: Unwind by Neal Shusterman
Oh, hey there! We have to keep running into each other like this. Sorry, thought that was appropriate due to the deluge of posts tonight lol. Anyway, have yet another book review for ya, lets get cracking :).
Another book that gets the Goodreads description treatment:
Another book that gets the Goodreads description treatment:
Connor, Risa, and Lev are running for their lives.
The Second Civil War was fought over reproductive rights. The chilling resolution: Life is inviolable from the moment of conception until age thirteen. Between the ages of thirteen and eighteen, however, parents can have their child "unwound," whereby all of the child's organs are transplanted into different donors, so life doesn't technically end. Connor is too difficult for his parents to control. Risa, a ward of the state is not enough to be kept alive. And Lev is a tithe, a child conceived and raised to be unwound. Together, they may have a chance to escape and to survive.
The Second Civil War was fought over reproductive rights. The chilling resolution: Life is inviolable from the moment of conception until age thirteen. Between the ages of thirteen and eighteen, however, parents can have their child "unwound," whereby all of the child's organs are transplanted into different donors, so life doesn't technically end. Connor is too difficult for his parents to control. Risa, a ward of the state is not enough to be kept alive. And Lev is a tithe, a child conceived and raised to be unwound. Together, they may have a chance to escape and to survive.
..................................WOW. Just WOW. Not gonna lie, I almost gave up on this one. Thank god I did not. Because wow, this book has quickly become an all time favorite of mine. It just blew me away. The story, the pacing, the concept behind the dystopia, everything. This book not only is great to read, but stays with you, really making you think. That ending was just wonderful, satisfying. Side note, I found out this will be a trilogy, and I just really hope that the second book is just as good. Man, you really become addicted to this, not wanting for a second to stop reading.
The three main characters: Connor, Risa and Lev are wonderful and so fascinating. They come from different walks of life, yet due to their circumstances come together and go on this journey that changes their lives. I loved the different points of view, even if they were in 3rd person present tense. Each kid went through such intense journeys, especially Lev. Oh boy, Lev's journey was a wild effing ride. I also loved how you become attached to these characters because of who they are, and want to see how they turn out in the end. Plus, the smattering of romance that was there didn't overtake the novel, which was amazing.
Oh man, does Neal Shusterman know how to write. I mean it, the guy is crazy freaking talented. He builds this world so fully, making you believe that it exists. He also takes a controversial issue, abortion, and poses questions under the guise of a kick-ass dystopian novel that make you think. I don't read many books by male authors often, but the ones I have read, whew, are fantastic. Keep on being amazing, Neal Shusterman! I just hope you make the second Unwind book just as good, if not better than this one.
The next post is coming in a few minutes. Hope y'all aren't sick of all these posts lol.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Bad Book Round-Up #6
Sadly, it's time for another BBRU. After this one, I am making a vow to try and stick with a book as best as I can. For now, here are the books that weren't finished:
The Immortality Virus by Christine Amsden:
This is another book that I literally could not open up on my Nook. I tried and tried yet it would not open. X_X It's a damn shame, because I really loved this concept and was eager to read it. X_X
Tankborn by Karen Sandler:
Honestly, I hated the prose. It was just as stiff as a board. Plus it was hard to keep up with all the lingo/slang/vocabulary the author came up with. The final thing that made me stop reading: Kayla's voice. I just could not connect with her whatsoever. She had no good qualities, nothing to make you like her, or want to cheer her on. *Sigh*
Well, that's it for this edition of BBRU. Coming back with a review in a few minutes, see ya then.
Until next time, viva la literature!
The Immortality Virus by Christine Amsden:
This is another book that I literally could not open up on my Nook. I tried and tried yet it would not open. X_X It's a damn shame, because I really loved this concept and was eager to read it. X_X
Tankborn by Karen Sandler:
Honestly, I hated the prose. It was just as stiff as a board. Plus it was hard to keep up with all the lingo/slang/vocabulary the author came up with. The final thing that made me stop reading: Kayla's voice. I just could not connect with her whatsoever. She had no good qualities, nothing to make you like her, or want to cheer her on. *Sigh*
Well, that's it for this edition of BBRU. Coming back with a review in a few minutes, see ya then.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Review #91: Desire by Kailin Gow
Hello again everyone! Another review coming up on the block for ya, and here we go! :)
Desire is the first in the Desire series by Kailin Gow. Kama Johnson lives in the perfect town of Arcadia. The sun always shines, the sky always clear and blue, everything is utterly perfect. Dating Liam, the Governor's son, Kama just knows he'll be a part of her Life's Plan. Upon getting her Life's Plan, a chain of events will be set in motion that change the course of Kama's life, as well as the future of Arcadia, forever.
I adore this book so much, plus it redeemed Kailin Gow in my eyes, after the disaster that was Daughters of Dracula. The pacing was brilliant, the story itself was unique and refreshing. I haven't read a Paranormal Dystopian before, the combination made this book all the more intriguing. I literally stayed up until almost 2 a.m finishing this, it was that good. I loved how the idea of a life's plan was used as a means of control in this society, in a dystopian sense. I've never seen that before. The magical aspect added oomph, elevating this book greatly.
Kama was a great character. While you are reading, you just cheer her on and go through the journey with her, feeling exactly what she feels: love, anger, shock, awe, etc. She had a good sense of self, despite her moments of obsession over Liam/Torrid. Liam, one of the main love interests/part of the triangle, I didn't really like. I felt like he was a bit too obsessed with Kama, it didn't feel like love. Then there's Torrid, the other part of the triangle. He fits that brooding love interest type. Admittedly though, he was a whole lot better than Liam. The antagonist scared the crap out of me. His subtle control throughout the book, then the ending, was totally frightening.
I loved how Gow built her world. She wrote the characters well, even the ones I didn't like.
I'll next be doing, sadly, a Bad Book Round-Up.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Desire is the first in the Desire series by Kailin Gow. Kama Johnson lives in the perfect town of Arcadia. The sun always shines, the sky always clear and blue, everything is utterly perfect. Dating Liam, the Governor's son, Kama just knows he'll be a part of her Life's Plan. Upon getting her Life's Plan, a chain of events will be set in motion that change the course of Kama's life, as well as the future of Arcadia, forever.
I adore this book so much, plus it redeemed Kailin Gow in my eyes, after the disaster that was Daughters of Dracula. The pacing was brilliant, the story itself was unique and refreshing. I haven't read a Paranormal Dystopian before, the combination made this book all the more intriguing. I literally stayed up until almost 2 a.m finishing this, it was that good. I loved how the idea of a life's plan was used as a means of control in this society, in a dystopian sense. I've never seen that before. The magical aspect added oomph, elevating this book greatly.
Kama was a great character. While you are reading, you just cheer her on and go through the journey with her, feeling exactly what she feels: love, anger, shock, awe, etc. She had a good sense of self, despite her moments of obsession over Liam/Torrid. Liam, one of the main love interests/part of the triangle, I didn't really like. I felt like he was a bit too obsessed with Kama, it didn't feel like love. Then there's Torrid, the other part of the triangle. He fits that brooding love interest type. Admittedly though, he was a whole lot better than Liam. The antagonist scared the crap out of me. His subtle control throughout the book, then the ending, was totally frightening.
I loved how Gow built her world. She wrote the characters well, even the ones I didn't like.
I'll next be doing, sadly, a Bad Book Round-Up.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Review #90: Crossed (Matched #2) by Ally Condie
Hello hello hello my dear friends! I hope your weekends treated you all well :) Have this here review for ya, so enjoy!
Crossed is the sequel to Matched by Ally Condie, second in a trilogy. I don't think I could describe this well on my own, so here's the Goodreads description!:
In search of a future that may not exist and faced with the decision of who to share it with, Cassia journeys to the Outer Provinces in pursuit of Ky - taken by the Society to his certain death - only to find that he has escaped, leaving a series of clues in his wake.
Cassia's quest leads her to question much of what she holds dear, even as she finds glimmers of a different life across the border. But as Cassia nears resolve and certainty about her future with Ky, an invitation for rebellion, an unexpected betrayal, and a surprise visit from Xander - who may hold the key to the uprising and, still, to Cassia's heart - change the game once again. Nothing is as expected on the edge of Society, where crosses and double crosses make the path more twisted than ever.
For my review of Matched, click here.
I thoroughly, thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was a great sequel to Matched. I read it in almost two days. The suspense was intense and you are so freaking addicted to what is happening. I do have a couple of gripes though. For the first two chapters, I couldn't distinguish Cassia and Ky's voices. That's an issue, especially since this dual narration was hyped up. It ended after those first two chapters, so it's not really a gripe. The second gripe is a bit more major. I honestly didn't feel like Condie expanded her world thoroughly. I know I'm not the author and she can make the story how she wishes, but I would have loved to know even more than I did while reading. After that, it was smooth sailing. I loved the scenes in the Outer Provinces. The pacing was great as well as the fantastic love story.
Cassia showed some real development in this installment. She had her oblivious moments, but she overall showed great improvement as a character. I still love Ky, and getting his perspective made me fall even more in love with him. Despite all that, at times it felt like he spent too much time brooding. But overall I still am firmly team Ky. Xander didn't really have much of a presence in this book, so I won't comment much on him, other than he was definitely a proponent of the plot. New characters such as Vick and Indie were quite developed and interesting. Vick definitely stood out as a favorite to me.
As I said, I wish Condie could have expanded a bit more on her world than she did, but I still love her writing and how she crafts a story. I can't wait until the next/final book comes out.
I'll next be reviewing Desire by Kailin Gow.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Crossed is the sequel to Matched by Ally Condie, second in a trilogy. I don't think I could describe this well on my own, so here's the Goodreads description!:
In search of a future that may not exist and faced with the decision of who to share it with, Cassia journeys to the Outer Provinces in pursuit of Ky - taken by the Society to his certain death - only to find that he has escaped, leaving a series of clues in his wake.
Cassia's quest leads her to question much of what she holds dear, even as she finds glimmers of a different life across the border. But as Cassia nears resolve and certainty about her future with Ky, an invitation for rebellion, an unexpected betrayal, and a surprise visit from Xander - who may hold the key to the uprising and, still, to Cassia's heart - change the game once again. Nothing is as expected on the edge of Society, where crosses and double crosses make the path more twisted than ever.
For my review of Matched, click here.
I thoroughly, thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was a great sequel to Matched. I read it in almost two days. The suspense was intense and you are so freaking addicted to what is happening. I do have a couple of gripes though. For the first two chapters, I couldn't distinguish Cassia and Ky's voices. That's an issue, especially since this dual narration was hyped up. It ended after those first two chapters, so it's not really a gripe. The second gripe is a bit more major. I honestly didn't feel like Condie expanded her world thoroughly. I know I'm not the author and she can make the story how she wishes, but I would have loved to know even more than I did while reading. After that, it was smooth sailing. I loved the scenes in the Outer Provinces. The pacing was great as well as the fantastic love story.
Cassia showed some real development in this installment. She had her oblivious moments, but she overall showed great improvement as a character. I still love Ky, and getting his perspective made me fall even more in love with him. Despite all that, at times it felt like he spent too much time brooding. But overall I still am firmly team Ky. Xander didn't really have much of a presence in this book, so I won't comment much on him, other than he was definitely a proponent of the plot. New characters such as Vick and Indie were quite developed and interesting. Vick definitely stood out as a favorite to me.
As I said, I wish Condie could have expanded a bit more on her world than she did, but I still love her writing and how she crafts a story. I can't wait until the next/final book comes out.
I'll next be reviewing Desire by Kailin Gow.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Review #89: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Greetings my friends! A hearty, happy, almost weekend to all! Hope y'all like this review :)
The Hunger Games is the best-selling first book in the best-selling Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins. The real synopsis of the book says it all so here it is:
In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV.
Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who lives alone with her mother and younger sister, regards it as a death sentence when she steps forward to take her sister's place in the Games. But Katniss has been close to dead before-and survival, for her, is second nature. Without really meaning to, she becomes a contender. But if she is to win, she will have to start making choices that weigh survival against humanity and life against love.
This is actually a re-read for it, and man, I'm so glad I put it on this list. Re-reading the Hunger Games reminded me of how much I loved it, and the series for that matter. This book has the makings of classic literature. The pacing is excellent, slow or fast when necessary. The story itself is wonderful, and the characters make this book. Plus its themes are universal and timeless. You literally become addicted to this story, cheering on your favorite characters, especially the lead, Katniss. You feel such a rush, especially during the Games themselves. Whew, it's scary to think that this is where our country went in this world.
Katniss is so effing bad-ass. Do not give her a bow and arrow, because she is deadly with that shiz. You really become attached to her as a character, and as a person. She has a rough exterior, but underneath she's a girl just trying to survive, willing to do anything for those she loves. You cheer her on and go through what she goes through, feel what she feels. Of course, can't talk about HG without talking about Gale and Peeta. Gale shall go first. We don't see much of Gale, but you feel his presence throughout the novel. And the bit you do see of him, you can't help but be drawn in. I especially loved the relationship he and Katniss had. You could tell how close they were. Katniss kept referring back to memories of Gale, and you want the closeness they have. Plus it doesn't hurt that he's quite sexy ;). Now onto Peeta. Peeta gets more time in this novel, so he gets more development. You get close to him as well. He's so sweet and genuine, yet he knows how to turn on the charm and make people believe anything he says. You really fall for him, because he is such a wonderful guy, and you feel so much for him, what he and Katniss do during the Games, and how their relationship grows and changes. But hands down, my favorite character is Cinna. Man oh man I love him. I adore his realness, his affection for Katniss, and what he can do with fashion. Out of all the characters from the Capitol, he is the most realistic. Other characters such as Rue, Haymitch and Effie are well written and lovely.
Damn, can Suzanne Collins write. I mean holy shite, she knows how to craft a genius book. Her world building is pure loveliness, and her writing is talent at its best. She is for sure one of my all time favorite authors.
A little bit about the upcoming movie: I saw the first legitimate trailer a few days ago, and it looks amazing. I have absolute faith in the film-makers as well as the cast. I can NOT wait until March '12.
I'll next be reviewing Crossed by Ally Condie.
Until next time, viva la literature!
The Hunger Games is the best-selling first book in the best-selling Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins. The real synopsis of the book says it all so here it is:
In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV.
Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who lives alone with her mother and younger sister, regards it as a death sentence when she steps forward to take her sister's place in the Games. But Katniss has been close to dead before-and survival, for her, is second nature. Without really meaning to, she becomes a contender. But if she is to win, she will have to start making choices that weigh survival against humanity and life against love.
This is actually a re-read for it, and man, I'm so glad I put it on this list. Re-reading the Hunger Games reminded me of how much I loved it, and the series for that matter. This book has the makings of classic literature. The pacing is excellent, slow or fast when necessary. The story itself is wonderful, and the characters make this book. Plus its themes are universal and timeless. You literally become addicted to this story, cheering on your favorite characters, especially the lead, Katniss. You feel such a rush, especially during the Games themselves. Whew, it's scary to think that this is where our country went in this world.
Katniss is so effing bad-ass. Do not give her a bow and arrow, because she is deadly with that shiz. You really become attached to her as a character, and as a person. She has a rough exterior, but underneath she's a girl just trying to survive, willing to do anything for those she loves. You cheer her on and go through what she goes through, feel what she feels. Of course, can't talk about HG without talking about Gale and Peeta. Gale shall go first. We don't see much of Gale, but you feel his presence throughout the novel. And the bit you do see of him, you can't help but be drawn in. I especially loved the relationship he and Katniss had. You could tell how close they were. Katniss kept referring back to memories of Gale, and you want the closeness they have. Plus it doesn't hurt that he's quite sexy ;). Now onto Peeta. Peeta gets more time in this novel, so he gets more development. You get close to him as well. He's so sweet and genuine, yet he knows how to turn on the charm and make people believe anything he says. You really fall for him, because he is such a wonderful guy, and you feel so much for him, what he and Katniss do during the Games, and how their relationship grows and changes. But hands down, my favorite character is Cinna. Man oh man I love him. I adore his realness, his affection for Katniss, and what he can do with fashion. Out of all the characters from the Capitol, he is the most realistic. Other characters such as Rue, Haymitch and Effie are well written and lovely.
Damn, can Suzanne Collins write. I mean holy shite, she knows how to craft a genius book. Her world building is pure loveliness, and her writing is talent at its best. She is for sure one of my all time favorite authors.
A little bit about the upcoming movie: I saw the first legitimate trailer a few days ago, and it looks amazing. I have absolute faith in the film-makers as well as the cast. I can NOT wait until March '12.
I'll next be reviewing Crossed by Ally Condie.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Monday, November 14, 2011
Review #88: Enclave by Ann Aguirre
Salutations my friend :) Hope your weekends were wonderful, as well as your Mondays :) Have this here review for ya, so lets go!
Enclave is the first book in the Razorland series by Ann Aguirre. Deuce has grown up in an underground Enclave, above ground having been decimated long ago. In her world, you earn your name at 15, if you survive long enough to do so. Newly 15 and minted as a Huntress, Deuce is partnered with Fade, a mysterious boy who had lived Topside until he came to the Enclave. Sent to fight the mutated Freaks, Deuce and Fade discover the creatures are becoming smarter and organized, making them even more deadly. When they relay this back to their leaders, no one believes them. Exiled, the duo make their way Topside, where they makes some startling discoveries, and become closer in a way neither expected.
I liked this book a lot. When I first heard about it, I sort of dismissed it. Finally, after much debate, I got it. I really liked its pacing, not too slow, not too fast. I especially loved this book once Deuce and Fade made it Topside. I became addicted to each page, craving to read more and more. The story feels old, yet new at the same time. You become so interested in how this world works.
Deuce was so freaking kick ass. I loved her determination, her passion and compassion. She is definitely a character worth rooting for. She also reminds me of one of my favorite characters, Katniss Everdeen. Both just kick ass, and are wonderfully complex characters. Fade was fabulous. Sexy, a bit mysterious, sweet and kind, fierce and kick ass. Man he was great. I loved learning bits and pieces about him. Other characters such as Stalker and Thimble were great to read, the former a bit more developed.
I liked Ms. Aguirre's writing style a lot. It was a wonderful one. She really knows how to build her world, I can't wait to see what else she has in store for the second book, Outpost.
I'll next be reviewing The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. This review will be a bit different since this is a re-read.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Enclave is the first book in the Razorland series by Ann Aguirre. Deuce has grown up in an underground Enclave, above ground having been decimated long ago. In her world, you earn your name at 15, if you survive long enough to do so. Newly 15 and minted as a Huntress, Deuce is partnered with Fade, a mysterious boy who had lived Topside until he came to the Enclave. Sent to fight the mutated Freaks, Deuce and Fade discover the creatures are becoming smarter and organized, making them even more deadly. When they relay this back to their leaders, no one believes them. Exiled, the duo make their way Topside, where they makes some startling discoveries, and become closer in a way neither expected.
I liked this book a lot. When I first heard about it, I sort of dismissed it. Finally, after much debate, I got it. I really liked its pacing, not too slow, not too fast. I especially loved this book once Deuce and Fade made it Topside. I became addicted to each page, craving to read more and more. The story feels old, yet new at the same time. You become so interested in how this world works.
Deuce was so freaking kick ass. I loved her determination, her passion and compassion. She is definitely a character worth rooting for. She also reminds me of one of my favorite characters, Katniss Everdeen. Both just kick ass, and are wonderfully complex characters. Fade was fabulous. Sexy, a bit mysterious, sweet and kind, fierce and kick ass. Man he was great. I loved learning bits and pieces about him. Other characters such as Stalker and Thimble were great to read, the former a bit more developed.
I liked Ms. Aguirre's writing style a lot. It was a wonderful one. She really knows how to build her world, I can't wait to see what else she has in store for the second book, Outpost.
I'll next be reviewing The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. This review will be a bit different since this is a re-read.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Currently Reading #7
Well folks, it's that magic time again. Where a new round of books rises up to the occasion. What's in the bag this time? Keep reading to find out! And away we go :)
This latest list is all about Dystopian! Dystopian books take place in the near or far future, where society is in a strict, controlled state while masquerading as if nothing was wrong with the way life is being lived. The novels on this list are for sure dystopian, and hopefully you'll see for yourselves! Onto the books!
1. Enclave (Razorland #1) - Ann Aguirre
2. The Hunger Games (Hunger Games #1) - Suzanne Collins (re-read)
3. Crossed (Matched #2 - Ally Condie
4. Desire (Desire #1) - Kailin Gow
5. The Immortality Virus - Christine Amsden
6. Tankborn - Karen Sandler
7. Unwind (Unwind #1) - Neal Shusterman
8. Memento Nora - Angie Smibert
Well, that's what on the chopping block! Check out the books, see what ya like!
Until next time, viva la literature!
This latest list is all about Dystopian! Dystopian books take place in the near or far future, where society is in a strict, controlled state while masquerading as if nothing was wrong with the way life is being lived. The novels on this list are for sure dystopian, and hopefully you'll see for yourselves! Onto the books!
1. Enclave (Razorland #1) - Ann Aguirre
2. The Hunger Games (Hunger Games #1) - Suzanne Collins (re-read)
3. Crossed (Matched #2 - Ally Condie
4. Desire (Desire #1) - Kailin Gow
5. The Immortality Virus - Christine Amsden
6. Tankborn - Karen Sandler
7. Unwind (Unwind #1) - Neal Shusterman
8. Memento Nora - Angie Smibert
Well, that's what on the chopping block! Check out the books, see what ya like!
Until next time, viva la literature!
Bad Book Round-Up #5
If only these posts were more spaced out X_X Oh well, here we go again with another Bad Book Round-Up.
Mozart's Blood by Louise Marley:
*Sigh* I heard such great reviews for this one. Plus it was free on Nook. Damn shame. What made this book bad is the writing. I was unable to connect with the writing style. It was just bad. Plus the two main characters, Octavia and Ugo had such a hot and cold relationship, you couldn't connect to either one of them. All around a bad novel.
Vampire Vacation by C.J Ellison:
Another one where the writing stunk/was wooden. Also the main character, Vivian yet again was totally unrelatable. Why oh why???
Moving on, it seems that with the end of this BBRU brings the end to another Currently Reading list. I will be writing it up as soon as this is posted, so keep an eye out :).
Until next time, viva la literature.
Mozart's Blood by Louise Marley:
*Sigh* I heard such great reviews for this one. Plus it was free on Nook. Damn shame. What made this book bad is the writing. I was unable to connect with the writing style. It was just bad. Plus the two main characters, Octavia and Ugo had such a hot and cold relationship, you couldn't connect to either one of them. All around a bad novel.
Vampire Vacation by C.J Ellison:
Another one where the writing stunk/was wooden. Also the main character, Vivian yet again was totally unrelatable. Why oh why???
Moving on, it seems that with the end of this BBRU brings the end to another Currently Reading list. I will be writing it up as soon as this is posted, so keep an eye out :).
Until next time, viva la literature.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Bad Book Round-Up #4
*Sigh* These posts are never easy to write. It's such a damn shame, really. Well, it's time for another BBRU y'all. Here we go.
Daughters of Dracula by Kailin Gow: I so wanted to like this. The concept was very enticing to me. It was shaping up to be a great book, but then it failed miserably. The writing was just stiff. It stunk right from the beginning. Plus the sisters felt like stereotypes, the bookworm and the vivacious out going one. I have another one of her novels, Desire, and man I hope it is good.
Blue Bloods by Melissa de la Cruz: Preface: I apologize if this one sounds bitter.
You know what's funny? I had a gut feeling I wouldn't like this book. I'd been burned by it before. When I first got my Nook, I decided to get a free sample of this novel. I read it, and hated it. Then, about a month and a half ago, I saw that it was now $2.99 as a NookBOOK. I thought, what the hell? So I bought it. Should have known nothing would change. The writing was still wooden, and the characters cheesy one-dimensionals. Plus it is hard for me to get into 3rd person POV, very few authors have made me enjoy it. Ms. de la Cruz is not one of those authors. Oh well, just makes me a bit more cautious.
So that's this edition, hopefully the next book on the list will be good.
I'll next be reviewing Mozart's Blood by Louise Marley.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Daughters of Dracula by Kailin Gow: I so wanted to like this. The concept was very enticing to me. It was shaping up to be a great book, but then it failed miserably. The writing was just stiff. It stunk right from the beginning. Plus the sisters felt like stereotypes, the bookworm and the vivacious out going one. I have another one of her novels, Desire, and man I hope it is good.
Blue Bloods by Melissa de la Cruz: Preface: I apologize if this one sounds bitter.
You know what's funny? I had a gut feeling I wouldn't like this book. I'd been burned by it before. When I first got my Nook, I decided to get a free sample of this novel. I read it, and hated it. Then, about a month and a half ago, I saw that it was now $2.99 as a NookBOOK. I thought, what the hell? So I bought it. Should have known nothing would change. The writing was still wooden, and the characters cheesy one-dimensionals. Plus it is hard for me to get into 3rd person POV, very few authors have made me enjoy it. Ms. de la Cruz is not one of those authors. Oh well, just makes me a bit more cautious.
So that's this edition, hopefully the next book on the list will be good.
I'll next be reviewing Mozart's Blood by Louise Marley.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Review #87: Descended by Blood
Hello once again my lovely friends! Hope all is still well. Have another review for y'all, so away we go! :)
Descended by Blood is the first book in the A Vampire Born series by Angeline Kace. Brooke Heller has moved around with her mom for as long as I can remember. This is the first time they have stayed in one place for more than a year. With a great best friend and a crush turning into something more, Brooke has it all. Until one day a mysterious man tries to kill her. From there, Brooke's life will never be the same.
At first, I'm not gonna lie, I almost quit this one. But, thankfully I persevered because it ended up being a great book. Although, I did still have this odd feeling of meh-ness while reading. I do hope that goes away when I read the next one. Other than that, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Like Savor, it has a sort of unique spin on vampirism, using Croatian words which I won't even try to type xD. I liked the ending the best, it was filled with epicausity, making me want to read more.
Brooke was pretty cool. I did dislike the fact that she brooded, a LOT. Almost to the point where she would be akin to Edward Cullen. I did love her best friend Kaitlynn. She was funny and supportive. Her friendship with Brooke was beautiful, reminding me of me and my best friend. They're like sisters, and it's hard for them to be apart. Then of course there are the two boys who form the love triangle, Jaren and Mirko. Jaren is the boy who Brooke crushed on during the solely human portion of her life. I loved reading their love story. Once the vampire part of the story started, lets just say it went south. I don't want to go into detail, but at certain points I really despised Jaren. Then the third point in the triangle is Mirko. He was so touch and go, cocky and yet sweet. The verdict is still undecided when it comes to him. The other characters had some great development themselves, not truly staying on the sidelines.
I did like the world Ms. Kace built. It was cool, with all the different aspects to her vampirism. I hope she improves with the second book.
The next post, sadly, will be a BBRU, so stay tuned y'all.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Descended by Blood is the first book in the A Vampire Born series by Angeline Kace. Brooke Heller has moved around with her mom for as long as I can remember. This is the first time they have stayed in one place for more than a year. With a great best friend and a crush turning into something more, Brooke has it all. Until one day a mysterious man tries to kill her. From there, Brooke's life will never be the same.
At first, I'm not gonna lie, I almost quit this one. But, thankfully I persevered because it ended up being a great book. Although, I did still have this odd feeling of meh-ness while reading. I do hope that goes away when I read the next one. Other than that, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Like Savor, it has a sort of unique spin on vampirism, using Croatian words which I won't even try to type xD. I liked the ending the best, it was filled with epicausity, making me want to read more.
Brooke was pretty cool. I did dislike the fact that she brooded, a LOT. Almost to the point where she would be akin to Edward Cullen. I did love her best friend Kaitlynn. She was funny and supportive. Her friendship with Brooke was beautiful, reminding me of me and my best friend. They're like sisters, and it's hard for them to be apart. Then of course there are the two boys who form the love triangle, Jaren and Mirko. Jaren is the boy who Brooke crushed on during the solely human portion of her life. I loved reading their love story. Once the vampire part of the story started, lets just say it went south. I don't want to go into detail, but at certain points I really despised Jaren. Then the third point in the triangle is Mirko. He was so touch and go, cocky and yet sweet. The verdict is still undecided when it comes to him. The other characters had some great development themselves, not truly staying on the sidelines.
I did like the world Ms. Kace built. It was cool, with all the different aspects to her vampirism. I hope she improves with the second book.
The next post, sadly, will be a BBRU, so stay tuned y'all.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Review #86: Savor by Megan Duncan
Guys! It feels like it's been ages since we've seen each other! Well, since I've last posted anyway xD. Well, let's cut to the chase and get to the review!
Savor is the first in the Warm Delicacy series by Megan Duncan. In Claire Miller's world, vampires are not hidden from society. In fact, they are royalty, ruling various regions along with government. The one thing asked of the humans is they donate blood a couple of times a month. The day of her 18th birthday, Claire goes to get her donor I.D. The next day, she is told by a vampire representative she has pure blood, and is offered to be a vampire princess, the daughter of the King and Queen. Once arriving at the castle, Claire learns being a vampy royal ain't all it's cracked up to be, with it's secrets and hidden pasts. Will she survive it all and rise to the occasion? Or will it be too much?
I really really liked this novel. So much so that I finished it in basically two days.Yup, it's that good. I loved the pacing, but of course most of all I loved the story. The vampires being royalty and the humans knowing fascinated me. The whole world of this novel is just fascinating. From page one you're invested. In the characters, in the story, everything. I was utterly addicted to Claire's journey from who she started as to who she became. And that ending! Damn, that was a good twist. I mean holy sh******t! You do NOT want to miss this.
Claire was quite the protagonist. Like I said, I loved reading her journey, maturing and growing while retaining who she truly was. She has a snarky, fun side, while also standing up for what is right. I liked her as a person. Robin, her best friend in the castle, was very awesome. I feel like if she were real, we'd geek out on history together. (History nerds unite!) :) Then of course Dmitry. *Sigh* Such sexiness. I mean, it feels like you just can't resist him. Man oh man, these crushes on fictional characters need to tone down, lol. I wanted to kick Ana's ass so fricking bad. She was just such a b*tch. X_X
Ms. Duncan knows how to write, that's for sure. I liked the world she created, and how fleshed out she made it. In essence, she made me crave for more (no pun intended xD) Her characters were realistic, it was all amazing.
I'll next be reviewing Descended by Blood by Angeline Kace.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Savor is the first in the Warm Delicacy series by Megan Duncan. In Claire Miller's world, vampires are not hidden from society. In fact, they are royalty, ruling various regions along with government. The one thing asked of the humans is they donate blood a couple of times a month. The day of her 18th birthday, Claire goes to get her donor I.D. The next day, she is told by a vampire representative she has pure blood, and is offered to be a vampire princess, the daughter of the King and Queen. Once arriving at the castle, Claire learns being a vampy royal ain't all it's cracked up to be, with it's secrets and hidden pasts. Will she survive it all and rise to the occasion? Or will it be too much?
I really really liked this novel. So much so that I finished it in basically two days.Yup, it's that good. I loved the pacing, but of course most of all I loved the story. The vampires being royalty and the humans knowing fascinated me. The whole world of this novel is just fascinating. From page one you're invested. In the characters, in the story, everything. I was utterly addicted to Claire's journey from who she started as to who she became. And that ending! Damn, that was a good twist. I mean holy sh******t! You do NOT want to miss this.
Claire was quite the protagonist. Like I said, I loved reading her journey, maturing and growing while retaining who she truly was. She has a snarky, fun side, while also standing up for what is right. I liked her as a person. Robin, her best friend in the castle, was very awesome. I feel like if she were real, we'd geek out on history together. (History nerds unite!) :) Then of course Dmitry. *Sigh* Such sexiness. I mean, it feels like you just can't resist him. Man oh man, these crushes on fictional characters need to tone down, lol. I wanted to kick Ana's ass so fricking bad. She was just such a b*tch. X_X
Ms. Duncan knows how to write, that's for sure. I liked the world she created, and how fleshed out she made it. In essence, she made me crave for more (no pun intended xD) Her characters were realistic, it was all amazing.
I'll next be reviewing Descended by Blood by Angeline Kace.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Review #85 Glass Houses by Rachel Caine
Hello my lovely friends! Hope your week has been well. I hope those participating in NaNoWriMo are doing well. I know I'm almost 1500 words in, which is bad considering you're supposed to write about 1,667 words per day to successfully complete NaNoWriMo X_X No matter, we're here to review a book today! And boy it's a good book :)
Glass Houses is the first in the Morganville Vampires series by Rachel Caine. Claire Danvers is a 16 year old genius, attending Texas Prairie College in the college town of Morganville. After getting beaten up by the nasty Monica and her Monickettes, Claire flees her dorm, finding solace at a house called the Glass House. Settling in with the house's quirky residents, Claire finds out the town's chilling secret: It's run by vampires. After an incident which pulls one of her roommates into a deep pit of drama, Claire tries to find a way to save him, which sets off a chain of events she will have to use all her intelligence to end.
Oh holy crap, this book is fangtastic! (pun intended ;]) After hearing such rave reviews of this series, I knew I had to start it stat. Thankfully I did, and it's amazing! I haven't read such a unique, refreshing vampire story (barring My Blood Approves and Vampire Academy) in a while. I just love the idea of vampires as the mafia of this town. I've never read a story with that kind of vamp addition. It's so cool, even though you know it's also wrong, as a story concept, it's amazing. Plus in general this is a great vampire story. I loved reading every minute of this emotional roller coaster. You are literally gripped from page one, especially near the climactic ending. You get such a sad feeling after finishing this delicious treat of a read. It's so good I almost bought the second one right after finishing this one. Sadly I didn't, but I can wait until I'm able :)
Claire was an excellent protagonist. A young genius on her own for the first time, you love watching her grow and develop into kind of a badass by the end. Yes, she is still a bit weak, but she grows into a strong person by the end, and you just root like hell for her and her friends. Which brings me to her friends/roommates. In my opinion, while Claire was a great protagonist, Eve, Michael and Shane just shone. They were definitely my favorite characters of the novel. I loved the dynamic and the rapport they had with each other, even more once Claire really became a part of it. You could tell they were a family, loving, hating and protecting each other with undying loyalty. Eve was just fabulous. I loved her sarcastic attitude, coupled with a vulnerability that made her even more real. Shane was hilarious, yet so sweet and loyal and caring. Michael is also sweet and caring and loyal. I so with that trio existed so we could all live in the Glass House as roommates. It would be so cool. Monica frankly scared the shit out of me (pardon the language). I mean that, I haven't been scared like that due to a character ever. Considering Warner from Shatter Me, that is really something. She is just so sociopathic and straight up evil you literally get shivers down your spine that won't go away until she's out of the scene. Holy crap, Monica is scary. The other characters are so well developed, despite how long each of them might appear. All were amazing and wonderful in their own way.
Kudos to Ms. Caine for building up her world quite well, and for just being so talented. I will be getting the next book for sure!
I will next be reviewing Savor by Megan Duncan.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Glass Houses is the first in the Morganville Vampires series by Rachel Caine. Claire Danvers is a 16 year old genius, attending Texas Prairie College in the college town of Morganville. After getting beaten up by the nasty Monica and her Monickettes, Claire flees her dorm, finding solace at a house called the Glass House. Settling in with the house's quirky residents, Claire finds out the town's chilling secret: It's run by vampires. After an incident which pulls one of her roommates into a deep pit of drama, Claire tries to find a way to save him, which sets off a chain of events she will have to use all her intelligence to end.
Oh holy crap, this book is fangtastic! (pun intended ;]) After hearing such rave reviews of this series, I knew I had to start it stat. Thankfully I did, and it's amazing! I haven't read such a unique, refreshing vampire story (barring My Blood Approves and Vampire Academy) in a while. I just love the idea of vampires as the mafia of this town. I've never read a story with that kind of vamp addition. It's so cool, even though you know it's also wrong, as a story concept, it's amazing. Plus in general this is a great vampire story. I loved reading every minute of this emotional roller coaster. You are literally gripped from page one, especially near the climactic ending. You get such a sad feeling after finishing this delicious treat of a read. It's so good I almost bought the second one right after finishing this one. Sadly I didn't, but I can wait until I'm able :)
Claire was an excellent protagonist. A young genius on her own for the first time, you love watching her grow and develop into kind of a badass by the end. Yes, she is still a bit weak, but she grows into a strong person by the end, and you just root like hell for her and her friends. Which brings me to her friends/roommates. In my opinion, while Claire was a great protagonist, Eve, Michael and Shane just shone. They were definitely my favorite characters of the novel. I loved the dynamic and the rapport they had with each other, even more once Claire really became a part of it. You could tell they were a family, loving, hating and protecting each other with undying loyalty. Eve was just fabulous. I loved her sarcastic attitude, coupled with a vulnerability that made her even more real. Shane was hilarious, yet so sweet and loyal and caring. Michael is also sweet and caring and loyal. I so with that trio existed so we could all live in the Glass House as roommates. It would be so cool. Monica frankly scared the shit out of me (pardon the language). I mean that, I haven't been scared like that due to a character ever. Considering Warner from Shatter Me, that is really something. She is just so sociopathic and straight up evil you literally get shivers down your spine that won't go away until she's out of the scene. Holy crap, Monica is scary. The other characters are so well developed, despite how long each of them might appear. All were amazing and wonderful in their own way.
Kudos to Ms. Caine for building up her world quite well, and for just being so talented. I will be getting the next book for sure!
I will next be reviewing Savor by Megan Duncan.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Review #84: My Blood Approves by Amanda Hocking
Hello again my friends! Have this review for y'all, lets get started :)
My Blood Approves is the first in the My Blood Approves series by the brilliant Amanda Hocking. Alice Bonham is a High School junior, leading a normal life with her family and best friend Jane. One night, through a series of events, meets Jack, a strange boy who takes a liking to her. While getting to know this oddly enamoring boy, she also meets his brother Peter, who instantly dislikes Alice. For some reason, Alice is attracted to Peter, despite him not returning the sentiment. What Alice does not know is the Townsends have a secret, one that Alice is dying to find out.
Thank god for this book. I mean that, it really pulled me out of slump I was feeling from Drink, Slay, Love. For a good chunk of the book, this feels like a Contemporary YA novel, but as you keep reading, you realize something is off about Jack and his "family." The paranormal aspect creeps up on you in a subtly satisfying way. There isn't action, but you never feel like there should be. Every time I had to put this book down, there was something in me that tried to pull me back in.
Alice was pretty cool. I loved her wit, and she definitely was a deep thinker, sometimes bordering on over-analyzing. You could practically feel her being torn between what she knew, and what she wanted. The real star of the show, at least to me, was Jack. Jack is hands down my favorite character of the novel, next to Milo. Jack is just so funny and so out there, yet incredibly sweet and at times heartfelt. Man, I love Jack. He cared deeply for Alice and would do anything and everything for her. He was unique and didn't give a damn about what people thought. *Sigh* Then there's Milo. I loved him because he was sweet and caring, wanting Alice to be happy, yet had some conflicts of his own. Like Alice said, he was more like her older brother than little brother. I'd love it if Milo was real and my little brother. Peter felt too much like Edward Cullen, in that he brooded a LOT. I mean, yes there was a backstory that explained why, but all the "I can't be with you because....." "You wouldn't understand"'s became grating. If this is a spoiler, than I apologize, so I will say SPOILER in case that is so: I am definitely Team Jack all the way.
Hocking thankfully did not disappoint. In my eyes she can do no wrong. She built her vampiric world beautifully, coming up with little unique spins on a somewhat tired genre. Her talent is just endless, and congrats to her for being signed with St. Martins Press, albeit my congrats being late xD. To end this little bit: Damn, Amanda Hocking knows how to craft a great story.
If you are a fan of Amanda Hocking, you will love this, also if you're a fan of good, unique vampire novels.
I'll next be reviewing Glass Houses by Rachel Caine.
Until next time, viva la literature!
My Blood Approves is the first in the My Blood Approves series by the brilliant Amanda Hocking. Alice Bonham is a High School junior, leading a normal life with her family and best friend Jane. One night, through a series of events, meets Jack, a strange boy who takes a liking to her. While getting to know this oddly enamoring boy, she also meets his brother Peter, who instantly dislikes Alice. For some reason, Alice is attracted to Peter, despite him not returning the sentiment. What Alice does not know is the Townsends have a secret, one that Alice is dying to find out.
Thank god for this book. I mean that, it really pulled me out of slump I was feeling from Drink, Slay, Love. For a good chunk of the book, this feels like a Contemporary YA novel, but as you keep reading, you realize something is off about Jack and his "family." The paranormal aspect creeps up on you in a subtly satisfying way. There isn't action, but you never feel like there should be. Every time I had to put this book down, there was something in me that tried to pull me back in.
Alice was pretty cool. I loved her wit, and she definitely was a deep thinker, sometimes bordering on over-analyzing. You could practically feel her being torn between what she knew, and what she wanted. The real star of the show, at least to me, was Jack. Jack is hands down my favorite character of the novel, next to Milo. Jack is just so funny and so out there, yet incredibly sweet and at times heartfelt. Man, I love Jack. He cared deeply for Alice and would do anything and everything for her. He was unique and didn't give a damn about what people thought. *Sigh* Then there's Milo. I loved him because he was sweet and caring, wanting Alice to be happy, yet had some conflicts of his own. Like Alice said, he was more like her older brother than little brother. I'd love it if Milo was real and my little brother. Peter felt too much like Edward Cullen, in that he brooded a LOT. I mean, yes there was a backstory that explained why, but all the "I can't be with you because....." "You wouldn't understand"'s became grating. If this is a spoiler, than I apologize, so I will say SPOILER in case that is so: I am definitely Team Jack all the way.
Hocking thankfully did not disappoint. In my eyes she can do no wrong. She built her vampiric world beautifully, coming up with little unique spins on a somewhat tired genre. Her talent is just endless, and congrats to her for being signed with St. Martins Press, albeit my congrats being late xD. To end this little bit: Damn, Amanda Hocking knows how to craft a great story.
If you are a fan of Amanda Hocking, you will love this, also if you're a fan of good, unique vampire novels.
I'll next be reviewing Glass Houses by Rachel Caine.
Until next time, viva la literature!
NaNoWriMo Ahoy!
Happy post Halloween everyone! I'm sorry I didn't make an All Hallows Eve post, it just wasn't in the cards :(. But! Now that it is November, NaNoWriMo has started, and boy will it make this month interesting!
Don't know what NaNoWriMo is? Lemme break it down for ya :)
NaNoWriMo stands for National Novel Writing Month (nifty eh? ;]) In essence, you challenge yourself to write a 50,000 word novel during the month of November. I've heard it's tough, it's time consuming, and that it can also be fun. I decided to give it a try this year, as have a few of my friends. The official website for NaNoWriMo is here.
So, will you be attempting NaNoWriMo this year? Let me know in the comments! My username is vivaladolcevita if anyone wants to add me as a writing buddy. :)
To all those attempting, I wish you the best of luck.
My next review is will be written as soon as I post this.
Until next time, viva la literature!
Don't know what NaNoWriMo is? Lemme break it down for ya :)
NaNoWriMo stands for National Novel Writing Month (nifty eh? ;]) In essence, you challenge yourself to write a 50,000 word novel during the month of November. I've heard it's tough, it's time consuming, and that it can also be fun. I decided to give it a try this year, as have a few of my friends. The official website for NaNoWriMo is here.
So, will you be attempting NaNoWriMo this year? Let me know in the comments! My username is vivaladolcevita if anyone wants to add me as a writing buddy. :)
To all those attempting, I wish you the best of luck.
My next review is will be written as soon as I post this.
Until next time, viva la literature!
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