Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë

Synopsis
Wuthering Heights, Emily Bronte's only novel, is one of the pinnacles of 19th-century English literature. It's the story of Heathcliff, an orphan who falls in love with a girl above his class, loses her, and devotes the rest of his life to wreaking revenge on her family.

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


I think I prefer Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre to her sisters Gothic volume. Then again I've only read this novel once(except the first couple chapters, I had to reread those half a dozen times to get through the book!)when it took me several times over to distinguish my love for Jane Eyre or Pride and Prejudice. Many things jumped out at me but one thing that escaped my attention was the romance. There was power, intensity, and madness but I found it difficult in seeing true love, it was so contorted. Plenty of hate going around, that much was obvious.

Mr. Heathcliff was a dark, dark character. Maybe too dark for me. His conniving and scheming turned me away though I wanted to like him, but it was impossible. The first Catherine I really couldn't stand, her daughter though I wanted so much to have a happy ending. The characters I couldn't stand the most were Linton, he clearly had no backbone whatsoever, and Joseph, though of no fault of his own. Mainly because I didn't understand a single word of his printed accent. It was so unbearable that I had to skip over his ramblings, and I hate doing that.

Another aspect of this novel that annoyed me was how the story was told by Nelly to her new master. Seriously, I didn't see the point of it all, except to muddle things up more if possible. That being said I think this novel will appeal to me more once I read it a couple times. Who knows when that will happen though. :)

The Dark and Hollow Places by Carrie Ryan

Synopsis
There are many things that Annah would like to forget: the look on her sister's face before Annah left her behind in the Forest of Hands and Teeth, her first glimpse of the Horde as they swarmed the Dark City, the sear of the barbed wire that would scar her for life. But most of all, Annah would like to forget the morning Elias left her for the Recruiters.
Annah's world stopped that day, and she's been waiting for Elias to come home ever since. Somehow, without him, her life doesn't feel much different than the dead that roam the wasted city around her. Until she meets Catcher, and everything feels alive again.
But Catcher has his own secrets. Dark, terrifying truths that link him to a past Annah has longed to forget, and to a future too deadly to consider. And now it's up to Annah: can she continue to live in a world covered in the blood of the living? Or is death the only escape from the Return's destruction?


My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I really love this series but I must say the first two books blew this one out of the water. I think this book was more focused on tying loose ends then telling Annah's story, which is what I was mostly looking for! Also there wasn't as much action/drama/loss than in the predecessors. However the story was excellent and I loved Annah... most of the time.

She is so closed off and is severely crippled in trust and love from the time Elias left her to join the recruiters. I never did like Elias much, and after reading this my opinion hasn't changed. I'm more a Cather fanatic myself <3 :) Though I wish he had found someone more "right" I guess for himself. Awfully convenient for Catcher to fall in love with the sister. :/

Like I said earlier there wasn't as much action as the last two novels. In the others the tension was constant, palpable almost. It was like a train wreck you can't not look at. Here though it was more subdued and a little monotonous even towards the end. Not that there wasn't any action, there was some, but that felt more subdued as well. There was none of Mary's tenacity or Gabry's selflessness. For Annah I didn't see a specific trait that kept popping up, that made her stand out. And while the ending was beautiful, I couldn't help but think 'This is it? This is what I waited for?' This seems like a very mixed review so I'll say this: An excellent story, but not the one I was hoping for.

Plague (Gone #4) by Michael Grant

Synopsis
This is a blood-pumping, white-knuckle sci-fi thriller of epic proportions. The FAYZ goes from bad to worse...The darkness has been foiled once again and the resurrected Drake has been contained. But the streets of Perdido Beach are far from safe, with a growing army of mutants fighting against the humans for power in the town. In a small room of a house near the edge of town, Little Pete lies ill on a bed. In his fevered dreams, he continues his battle with the hidden evil that seeks to use his power to bring about anarchy and destruction.

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


I am shocked. More outrageous insanity. BUT! And this is the only reason I gave it three instead of two stars, it actually goes somewhere in this book! There will definitely be a fifth installment which I'm sort of looking forward too, I use "looking forward to" very lightly because this series really doesn't do anything for me. Mainly I want to continue the series just to see how everything turns out with the new rules and socities set in place.

Also because O.M.G. it has happened! There will be a highly anticipated new character coming into the series although I feel I'm going to be a little disappointed already... Hm. Little teasing spoiler, someone is pregnant! As far as characterization, again I was amused by Astrid, although toward the end I came to despise her more than anything else. So frustrating when Sam's heart is on the line. (Face it, everyone loves Sam.) A character I really enjoyed this time around was Sanjit, who was introduced in Lies. He provides some much needed comic relief, eh, well most of the time.

The gaiaphage is particularly tricky in his demonic plotting this time. His newest plan involves beings repellent to most of the assorted powers...(Damn! another spoiler!) And oh yea! Caine. I haven't said anything about him in the Lies review since he never seemed that big a character or that integral to the plot, though he really was, but he's somehow managed to get into the spotlight, ruffian. It'll be interesting to see how he goes about the next book or so. He's finally gotten his ambition, but I'm wondering to what cost?

Lies (Gone #3)Lies by Michael Grant

Synopsis

It's been seven months since all the adults disappeared. Gone.

It happens in one night. A girl who died now walks among the living; Zil and the Human Crew set fire to Perdido Beach; and amid the flames and smoke, Sam sees the figure of the boy he fears the most: Drake. But Drake is dead. Sam and Caine defeated him along with the Darkness—or so they thought.

As Perdido Beach burns, battles rage: Astrid against the Town Council; the Human Crew versus the mutants; and Sam against Drake, who is back from the dead and ready to finish where he and Sam left off. And all the while deadly rumors are raging like the fire itself, spread by the prophetess Orsay and her companion, Nerezza. They say that death is a way to escape the FAYZ. Conditions are worse than ever and kids are desperate to get out. But are they desperate enough to believe that death will set them free?

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Well if this series can get any more ridiculous, I will be shocked. Seriously? Orsay is now a prophet and can see through the FAYZ wall. While that may be okay, (and preposterous as well), why is no one suspicious of her protector? Where did she come from? From the beginning I knew almost everything that was gonna happen in this book. Why? Well the title gave it all away. Same with the other books in this series. I guess it's supposed to be a small hint, only for me it rips the plot right open.

What I enjoyed most from this book is Astrid's downfall. She's so retarded in her genius-ness. On the other hand it was heartbreaking watching Sam. I genuinely like Sam, even though he's stupid and has no idea what he's doing. Still, I want him to find his happy ending. Not much else to say here, except the HC finally got what was coming to them.

Across the Universe by Beth Revis

Synopsis
A love out of time. A spaceship built of secrets and murder.

Seventeen-year-old Amy joins her parents as frozen cargo aboard the vast spaceship Godspeed and expects to awaken on a new planet, three hundred years in the future. Never could she have known that her frozen slumber would come to an end fifty years too soon and that she would be thrust into the brave new world of a spaceship that lives by its own rules.

Amy quickly realizes that her awakening was no mere computer malfunction. Someone-one of the few thousand inhabitants of the spaceship-tried to kill her. And if Amy doesn't do something soon, her parents will be next.

Now Amy must race to unlock Godspeed's hidden secrets. But out of her list of murder suspects, there's only one who matters: Elder, the future leader of the ship and the love she could never have seen coming.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Beautifully written, and so terrifying I was on the edge of my seat. It's that opening that just grabs you. Serious shivers from it, but it's a perfect hook. As so many others have said, this isn't just science fiction. It's murder, romance, and self-discovery rolled all into one.

I had my hopes for this novel really high up. I can't say that I'm disappointed in it, because I am not at all. It just didn't go how I thought it would. Plus there were some lulls. But! To be honest I didn't care about any of that, just because this story was so intriguing, even in it's duller moments. This isn't a book for those with a squeamish stomach or the faint of heart. Though it is fiction and you know the characters aren't really hurtling through space, you can't help but take a look up the sky hoping to see Godspeed taking off.

Revis is an author that I will be keeping my eye on. Hopefully so many will like it that it'll be put in film production quickly! Her world in Across the Universe came to life easily, and it's not a world I will soon forget, though I will be reading it again and again!

I wish I could go on about this book, but I feel I'll blurt something out and ruin it for everyone, so I'll leave it here. One thing to say is just: GO READ IT ! NOW !

P.S. I'm a sucker for The Beatles. The lyric from Across the Universe (the song :) by this epic band had my heart throbbing before I even got to the first page.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

Synopsis
Mikael Blomkvist, a once-respected financial journalist, watches his professional life rapidly crumble around him. Prospects appear bleak until an unexpected (and unsettling) offer to resurrect his name is extended by an old-school titan of Swedish industry. The catch - and there's always a catch - is that Blomkvist must first spend a year researching a mysterious disappearance that has remained unsolved for nearly four decades. With few other options, he accepts and enlists the help of investigator Lisbeth Salander, a misunderstood genius with a cache of authority issues. Little is as it seems in Larsson's novel, but there is at least one constant: you really don't want to mess with the girl with the dragon tattoo.


My rating: 1 of 5 stars


Originally I had wanted to read this of my own free will, then I was forced to read it, thanks to my English course. Worst. book. ever. Seriously, this may just not be my genre or something, but how can anyone give this book over three stars?

For one thing, the plot was just wayyy too long. A good 300 pages could have been ripped out and this book would have turned out fine. But, nope, it was dragged. Not to mention, that this novel went down several tangents that had no point to the central plot.

As far as characterization, it was decent. Lisbeth Salander is growing into an icon for women now. Her "can't fuck with me" attitude will soon be smudged on the face of women worldwide. Blomkvist was just boring. There was nothing special or quirky about him, except he oddly was able to sleep around with notable characters. Henrik, though, I loved! Just a sweet old man in a way screwed up family. Reminded me of my own grandfather. Anyway, Henrik is the only reason this book has a star.

If I wasn't forced to read this novel, I really would not have finished it. Terrible!

The Fallen: Volume 1 by Thomas E. Sniegoski

Synopsis

THE ULTIMATE QUEST FOR REDEMPTION

On his eighteenth birthday, Aaron begins to hear strange voices and is convinced he is going insane. But having moved from foster home to foster home, Aaron doesn't know whom he can trust. He wants to confide in the cute girl from class, but fears she'll confirm he's crazy.

Then a mysterious man begins following Aaron. He knows about Aaron's troubled past and his new powers. And he has a message for Aaron: As the son of a mortal and an angel, Aaron has been chosen to redeem the Fallen.

Aaron tries to dismiss the news and resists his supernatural abilities. But he must accept his newfound heritage — and quickly. For the dark powers are gaining strength, and are hell-bent on destroying him..

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


The first thing I must say is that I LOVE Labs! So this book automatically had 2 stars for having a Lab in here as a main character. Poor Gabriel, I really felt for him the most out of any other. All I kept imagining was my Prince in this story. (Prince is my own black Lab :)

Aaron has a tough time during both books deciding whether he believed in all the wondrous happenings he was experiencing. Which is pretty irksome. Seriously you've lost everything, and now you won't even try to enjoy some amazing powers given to you. Whatever dude, any other normal guy would just go for it. As for Vilma, well she fell flat. I only started paying attention to her at the end of the second book. Highly convenient what's about to happen, I think, and not very happy with it.

The story line was a little slow. In the second book, I'm not really sure what the point of that entire book was... More like a filler book to elaborate on certain characters or something, but I didn't see a big difference or any development.

Have to say the funniest part is when Camael had french fries for the first time. How I imagined his expression is priceless no doubt.

The Devouring by Simon Holt

Synopsis

"When dark creeps in and eats the light,
Bury your fears on Sorry Night.
For in the winter's blackest hours,
Comes the feasting of the Vours,
No one can see it, the life they stole,
Your body's here but not your soul..."

THE VOURS: Evil, demonic beings that inhabit human bodies on Sorry Night, the darkest hours of the winter solstice.

When Reggie reads about the Vours in a mysterious old journal, she assumes they are just the musings of an anonymous lunatic. But when her little brother, Henry, begins to act strangely, it's clear that these creatures exist beyond a madwoman's imagination, and Reggie finds out what happens when fears come to life.

To save the people she loves, Reggie must learn to survive in a world of nightmares. Can she devour her own fears before they devour her?

The Devouring is an engrossing tale of terror that will have you wondering: what if your worst fears became your living nightmare?

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


I felt when I first picked up this novel that there wouldn't be enough meat, as they call it, to fill me up. Sadly, I was right. It's a good story and the characters all in all aren't bad. However there just was not enough of this story so that I was really interested. It could have been so much better had the author pushed a little and expanded the story line.

Maybe it's because I'm not a horror fan, but I didn't like Reggie much. She seemed impossibly all over the place to me. First she didn't believe in the Vours, then she did, again she didn't. Then suddenly she's super Reggie who knows the answers to everything, just because she knows all the horror stories.

Not sure if I'll continue this series. Maybe if a friend buys them and I don't have any other alternatives... Who knows. I think I'll stick to the thicker books. I read so much it's hard to be totally absorbed when I know the story won't last long.

Divergent by Veronica Roth

Synopsis
In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue—Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is—she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.

During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris and struggles to determine who her friends really are—and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes fascinating, sometimes infuriating boy fits into the life she's chosen. But Tris also has a secret, one she's kept hidden from everyone because she's been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers a growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly perfect society, she also learns that her secret might help her save those she loves . . . or it might destroy her.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars


First of all I would like to thank Goodreads and HarperCollins for giving me the opportunity to read this novel. A BIG thank you, because this book is just soo... there's no words really. It's a totally engrossing novel. The story line, characters, the pacing, all of it was wonderful.

I fell in love with these characters, and wish I could meet them all. OK, maybe not all. Some are hardcore bad. Each are filled out beautifully, and all are distinct from one another. There's a lot of heart-wrenching moments, and you really feel it for these characters.

I'm totally engrossed in the world Miss Roth created. I guess if an apocalypse has to happen I hope it turns out like this. It's the only plan so far that "seems" to be working. (I say "seems" because of course in order to create an interesting story there's something not quite right with this society, as in all dystopians.) It definitely could work though.

Now there is a ton symbolic importance in this novel. I can not figure out the fireball on the cover though. I'm thinking it's supposed to be an all-in-one symbol of all the factions, but I'm doubtful.

Evernight by Claudia Gray

Synopsis
Bianca wants to escape.

She's been uprooted from her small hometown and enrolled at Evernight Academy, an eerie Gothic boarding school where the students are somehow too perfect: smart, sleek, and almost predatory. Bianca knows she doesn't fit in.

Then she meets Lucas. He's not the "Evernight type" either, and he likes it that way. Lucas ignores the rules, stands up to the snobs, and warns Bianca to be careful—even when it comes to caring about him.

"I couldn't stand it if they took it out on you," he tells Bianca, "and eventually they would."

But the connection between Bianca and Lucas can't be denied. Bianca will risk anything to be with Lucas, but dark secrets are fated to tear them apart . . . and to make Bianca question everything she's ever believed.

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


I would have loved to give this book more stars, but I'm a little mad at it. So this review will change probably once I read the other books. I'm mad though because through half the book you're thinking you know Bianca and that she's as clueless as you are and OMG! that's so not how this situation is going. There's dramatic irony and only the protagonist knows it, not even us as readers know! In hindsight, I'll come to respect Mrs. Gray for this ingeniously written development in the plot line. Seriously, it took my breathe away. There's a lot of room for this story to take off in a wide direction. I can't wait to get my hands on the rest of this series.

The characters were very well written. A couple fell flat but a lot were fleshed out very nicely. I especially enjoyed Balthazar and Vic. Two very different characters but they were awesome nonetheless. I was hoping Vic would be initiated into the circle of friends who "knew" what was going on. But it wasn't meant to be.

The cover of this book reminds me of the original covers for Fingerprints (also known as Echoes). Hoping they come out with a better cover because I'm not a big fan of this one.

Firelight by Sophie Jordan

Synopsis

A hidden truth.
Mortal enemies.
Doomed love.

Marked as special at an early age, Jacinda knows her every move is watched. But she longs for freedom to make her own choices. When she breaks the most sacred tenet among her kind, she nearly pays with her life. Until a beautiful stranger saves her. A stranger who was sent to hunt those like her. For Jacinda is a draki—a descendant of dragons whose greatest defense is her secret ability to shift into human form.

Forced to flee into the mortal world with her family, Jacinda struggles to adapt to her new surroundings. The only bright light is Will. Gorgeous, elusive Will who stirs her inner draki to life. Although she is irresistibly drawn to him, Jacinda knows Will's dark secret: He and his family are hunters. She should avoid him at all costs. But her inner draki is slowly slipping away—if it dies she will be left as a human forever. She'll do anything to prevent that. Even if it means getting closer to her most dangerous enemy.

Mythical powers and breathtaking romance ignite in this story of a girl who defies all expectations and whose love crosses an ancient divide.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Well there will be a Firelight 2, no doubt about that. I'm pretty excited for it though. Even if I find these draki and non-draki ladies to be quite selfish. I also don't understand the appeal Will has over Jacinda. Except the bringing her inner draki back to life. That's all the appeal I can find that Jacinda truly would enjoy, and honestly I feel that may be the extent of their relationship.

All Jacinda loves is that connection to her draki, just like her father. It is a huge part of her life and I'm so pissed her mother just wants that to die! How can you ask someone to kill a part of themselves. Stupid! Same goes for the sister, whoop-dee-do, you're being normal. Congrats, really. Jacinda should definitely be staying with Cassian. Talk about a honey, man he sounds gorgeous. Don't see what Jacinda's problem there is...

The only thing I can predict for sure is that a war is upon them. As to whom it will be between? Well that's fair game. Also that the pride has been lying to the younger generation about hunters and enkros. Though I'm pretty sure they're up to no good either. All in all a fantastic read with a twist on dragons. And must I say it but the cover is so enticing. I especially love the scales around her eyes. Kinda wish mine did that.

Check out:

While I'm still reviewing all these pesky novels, check out Evernight! I haven't read it myself but it is in my reading pile. Hope you enjoy!

I know I suck...

It's been awhile since there has been a review but... if you have not taken a look at my reading list, you may want to look. Yes! So many books! And to be honest I have already finished most of them. Only a few have not been read... So the reviews will be coming!

On a side note, Muzicons has rearranged their site so now you have to find your music elsewhere :/ Not happy about this. So I may have to find another awesome place to find my awesome music. Hopefully it will be as cute as Muzicons.

That's all for now. Please don't expect reviews every day. I'm human and I have a life. Not to mention I share my computer with two other people. We may be setting up time slots. lol.

Have a great day and pick up a book!

Indefensible by Pamela Callow

Synopsis
When Elise Vanderzell plummets from her bedroom balcony one gorgeous summer night, her children awaken to a nightmare.

Their mother is dead.

Their father is charged with her murder.

Lawyer Kate Lange knows all about nightmares. She's survived the darkest period of her troubled life and the wounds are still raw. Now she's been handed a case that seems utterly unwinnable: defending her boss, high-profile lawyer Randall Barrett. A prosecutor's dream suspect, Randall is a man who was cuckolded by his ex-wife. A man who could not control his temper. A man who had argued bitterly with the victim the previous day in full view of the children.

With limited criminal law experience, Kate finds herself enmeshed in a family fractured by doubt. Randall's teenage son is intent on killing him. His daughter wants only to feel safe again. And the entire legal community would like nothing better than to see Randall receive a public comeuppance. As Kate races to stay a step ahead of the prosecution, a silent predator is waiting for the perfect time to deal the final blow.

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Dare I say it? Two reviews in one day. Yup, this little bee has been buzz-eh! Busy. Eh, I laughed. But yes another review! Difference is this is not! a YA novel. Very grown-up, very intellectual. Kinda boring, but it's good for me to find other genres to read. Keeps everything in perspective.

Now for the review! The beginning of this book was so slooooow. It wasn't until a couple hundred pages in that I felt things were starting to heat up. Now usually with a slow beginning there's important facts that have to be teased out or something like that. I didn't feel that way with this though. A lot of the information provided could have easily been slimmed down or taken out completely.

Though I might feel this way because I have not read the first book featuring Kate Lange, Damaged. Looks promising, and it will fill the spots in the second book I couldn't connect with. So I may be reading this as well.

I was annoyed with the point of views being shifted around so much. I don't usually mind, but every P.O.V. was bland, monotonous. It was difficult to get into the groove of a new person's thought process, only to switch again once you get the hang of it. Kate was enjoyable as a heroine. I wanted to root for her the whole way. And Randell, hmm, he seemed steamy, but a little bipolar. Sorry but I am crazy enough for me and whoever my lover would be. Not crazy I kill people, or anything along those lines. Noo, more like a bouncy WHAT'S UP?! kind of crazy. I've been told I would make a wonderful elementary teacher. :]

Anywho, good book. Little bit predictable, but there were many 'Where did that come from?' moments as well.

I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore

Synopsis
In the beginning they were a group of nine. Nine aliens who left their home planet of Lorien when it fell under attack by the evil Mogadorian. Nine aliens who scattered on Earth. Nine aliens who look like ordinary teenagers living ordinary lives, but who have extraordinary, paranormal skills. Nine aliens who might be sitting next to you now.

The Nine had to separate and go into hiding. The Mogadorian caught Number One in Malaysia, Number Two in England, and Number Three in Kenya. All of them were killed. John Smith, of Paradise, Ohio, is Number Four. He knows that he is next.

I AM NUMBER FOUR is the thrilling launch of a series about an exceptional group of teens as they struggle to outrun their past, discover their future—and live a normal life on Earth.

I AM NUMBER FOUR.
I AM NEXT.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


As much as I loved this book, I hated this book.

The plot and background and all the secondary characters were great and unique. Main character, John Smith, I had a harder time with. Which is very weird for me. Usually, with any book, I love the main character without a doubt (unless the book is horrendous.) I won't give too much away but John was selfish and a liar, and his actions ultimately killed. Not to mention he abused his powers. Sounds to me like John Smith may not be his planet's great protector.

I will continue reading the series, mainly to find out more about Lorien and the other numbers. And to see if Number Four can redeem himself. He has a long way to go though, because right now he's reminding me of Anakin from Star Wars.... Yeah, I just got nerdy.

Must say I loved the beginning to this novel. Stating that this book was nonfiction and names had been changed to protect their identities. How am I to know any different? It would be amazing to know if it's real but I guess you gotta be one of the lucky people. Like Sam or Sarah.

The Maze Runner by James Dashner

Synopsis
Imagine waking up one day in total darkness, unsure of where you are and unable to remember anything about yourself except your first name. You're in a bizarre place devoid of adults called the Glade. The Glade is an enclosed structure with a jail, a graveyard, a slaughterhouse, living quarters, and gardens. And no way out. Outside the Glade is the Maze, and every day some of the kids -- the Runners -- venture into the labyrinth, trying to map the ever-changing pattern of walls in an attempt to find an exit from this hellish place. So far, no one has figured it out. And not all of the Runners return from their daily exertions, victims of the maniacal Grievers, part animal, part mechanical killing machines.

Thomas is the newest arrival to the Glade in this Truman-meets-Lord of the Flies tale. A motley crew of half a dozen kids is all he has to guide him in this strange world. As soon as he arrives, unusual things begin to happen, and the others grow suspicious of him. Though the Maze seems somehow familiar to Thomas, he's unable to make sense of the place, despite his extraordinary abilities as a Runner. What is this place, and does Thomas hold the key to finding a way out?

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


An amazing, intense, mind-boggling book of the future. There's no doubt in my mind that I have become a devoted fan of Mr. Dashner. This book has everything I was looking for in a book. Superb characters, an exhilarating background, and the most convoluted conflict I think I've ever encountered. Seriously, I can not believe I didn't pick up this book as soon as I saw it. The Maze Runner is INCREDIBLE! Pretty sure I'll be picking up the rest of this series tomorrow. Twas that good.

Gotta stop going on about how wonderful this book is (but it really is!) I will say that the beginning starts off slow, but it is totally necessary. What's not necessary is Thomas' endless repetition of trying to ask questions. God, how annoying. Once things got going though it really took off. There are so many characters I loved in this novel, but the two by far were Newt and Minho. Very strong characters, and while similar they were completely different. Makes no sense I know, you just got to read the book. You gotta feel something for Chuck too. It's incredibly frustrating right now because I just want to spill all the beans and juicy secrets of this novel, but... I can't. Sorry. Hopefully it'll just make you want the book more. :]

As for the dynamic story, the story itself!, that is so hard to put in words. Really, where did you come up with this Mr. Dashner? You seriously gotta have a lot of conspiracy theories or something! This story has so much going for it, it was irresistible to me. How it all came to be and where it will go has me awed. The last few pages were mind-numbing. You think you got it figured out and BAM! Totally blown to pieces.

In the end there's only one thing to say, "Get me the next shucking book, shuck-head!"

Wish You Were Dead by Todd Strasser

Synopsis
Str-S-d:
I’ll begin with Lucy. She is definitely first on the list. You can’t believe how it feels to be in the cafeteria and turn around and there she is staring at me like I’m some disgusting bug or vermin. Does she really think I WANT to be this way? I hate you, Lucy. I really hate you. You are my #1 pick. I wish you were dead.


The day after anonymous blogger Str-S-d wishes the popular girl would die, Lucy vanishes. The students of Soundview High are scared and worried. Especially frightened and wracked with guilt is Madison Archer, Lucy’s friend and the last person to see her the night she disappeared.
As days pass with no sign of the missing girl, even the attention of Tyler, an attractive new student, is not enough to distract Madison from her growing sense of foreboding. When two more popular students disappear after their names are mentioned on Str-S-d’s blog, the residents of Soundview panic.
Meanwhile, Madison receives anonymous notes warning that she could be next. Desperate to solve the mystery before anyone else disappears, Madison turns to Tyler, but can she trust him when it becomes clear that he knows more than he’s sharing?
The clock is ticking. Madison must uncover the truth behind the mysterious disappearances . . . before her name appears in Str-S-d’s blog.


My rating: 3 of 5 stars


The synopsis hooked me. New-age thriller? Bring it! But I feel a little mislead... I know synopses (there it is again! SO WEIRD!) are not supposed to reveal what actually happens, just tantalize you with all the juicy bits of the novel. In this one though, I was waiting for Madison to get jumped and I was just blindsided by the turn of events.


But not so fast! While I was expecting a certain turn of events, I got another just as good. Though it was creepy.... Anywhats, the pacing in this story felt really good to me. There may have been a point here and there that the story lagged a bit, but I found that was just in order to tie up a couple loose ends. Also the switch between P.O.V.s was hard to handle at first, but I got used to it eventually.


Madison was a great protagonist and I liked how she handled herself. Especially in the end! Can only wish I could have the heart she does, because wow that's amazing. After all the drama, I would have liked to seen her a little more deeper. Or reserved. Instead we got skittish. I don't know about ya'll but usually after an experience like that, there's a huge shift in character. (This is so hard without giving spoilers!) I can't complain, because all in all I was left stumped until the end and the characters were well written. That's all I really need in a thriller. Well that and a little more depth.

Muzicons - music widget with emotion!

Muzicons.com

So I'm trying to find something that I can put in my blog to play music but I'm having a hard time finding one I like and being able to place it in my blog. I love love love MUZICONS! It's so cute! Unfortunately I'm having a  hard time putting it into my blog.... Grr... Also it only plays one song at a time. I was hoping for more variety but guess we can't have it all. Anyways, I figured if indeed I can't upload it permanently, than I shall post about it! Hopefully I'll figure out this HTML code crap.Well that's all I got for now. Expect a review shortly!

An Amendment

I have decided that I will only be reviewing books on this blog. I was sitting here trying to review the new movie The Dilemma. And I just don't want to. Haha, I can't find the same energy and joy that I find reviewing books. I love reading, and I enjoy discussing the books I read. So there we go.

Right now I'm starting the book, Wish You Were Dead by Todd Strasser. But since I'm not finished I think I'll just put up my most anticipated books of 2011! :]

Entangled by Cat Clarke
Tempest (Hush, Hush #3) by Becca Fitzpatrick
The Gathering by Kelley Armstrong
Chime by Franny Billingsley
Abandon by Meg Cabot
Wolfsbane (Nightshade #2) by Andrea Cremer
Angelfire by Courtney Allison Moulton
Ripple by Mandy Hubbard
Shift (Shade #2) by Jeri Smith-Ready
The Day Before by Lisa Schroedor




Awaken by Katie Kacvinsky
Possession by Elana Johnson
Crossed (Matched #2) by Ally Conde
Ashfall by Mike Mullin
Imaginary Girls by Nova Ren Suma
Supernaturally (Paranormalcy #2) by Kiersten White
The Vespertine by Saundra Mitchell
Wither by Lauren DeStefano
Vicious Little Darlings by Katherine Easer
The Dark and Hollow Places (The Forest of Hands and Teeth #3) by Carrie Ryan

Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick

Synopsis
For Nora Grey, romance was not part of the plan. She's never been particularly attracted to the boys at her school, no matter how much her best friend, Vee, pushes them at her...until Patch comes along.
With his easy smile and eyes that seem to see inside her, Nora is drawn to him against her better judgment, but after a series of terrifying encounters, Nora's not sure whom to trust. Patch seems to be everywhere she is, and to know more about her than her closest friends. She can't decide whether she should fall into his arms or run and hide. And when she tries to seek some answers, she finds herself near a truth that is far more unsettling than anything Patch makes her feel.
For Nora is right in the middle of an ancient battle between the immortal and those that have fallen - and when it comes to choosing sides, the wrong choice will cost her life.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


First things first, WOW! This novel surprised me so much. For some inexplicable reason I thought I would hate this book, and thank god I do not! I have a problem, because I felt the same way about Harry Potter and Eragon. Got to stop judging these amazing books by their cover!! Have to say it though, I don't get the title. It had absolutely nothing to do with the book... Maybe I'm missing something somewhere, but it's not clicking for me.

Patch was an amazing character. I loved Nora too, but Patch... I mean he just had me. I was so drawn to him because he wasn't... perfect. Yes! I mean, all the new love interests in paranormal YA fiction have been too perfect for me. Too "White Knight" per say. Give me the Dark Knight, thank you! And his past, oh boy. Sure, he has a lot to make up for, but you can't help but feel for him. I want to at least...

Another thing I loved in this book was NO LOVE TRIANGLES! Again, a lot of YA novels have love triangles in them. I mean don't get me wrong, love triangles mean more steamy scenes because gah! there's two men! But it was so refreshing to root for one guy the whole time because he is the only guy!

I will say that if I had wanted to read this book from the beginning and not been so repulsed by it at first, it would've only gotten four stars. But because I was so surprised it gets five. :) Now it would have only gotten four because while there was suspense and mystery, I could see through it all. I knew who was who and what would happen before the end of the book and it disappointed me. Thank goodness it's characters were so uplifting. Each was unique, and each I love for a different reason.

Now for the cover that gives me chills. When I first glanced at the cover I figured it was your standard fall from grace. At a closer look (and after reading), you can feel the emotion it gives off. The pain on his face is so, oh I don't even have words for it! It's beautiful and if it weren't so haunting I'd have it framed in my bedroom. <.< >.> No? Just me? Fine....

off track today

No reviews today, because I haven't finished my books yet. :) But I figured this would be as good as any other time to show off GoodReads.com Explicitly for books, this site I find a lot more useful than Amazon. It's where I get all my synopses (weird plural form, huh?) Plus there's a neat feature where you make your own shelves. I haven't played with it much yet, but seeing as how I love to be all organized this will be interesting... All I did today ( in between my job) was find books to put on my to-read list. Up to 300 books! Got A LOT of reading to do. Man oh man, by thunder. Anyways if you wanna see me and be friends on GoodReads, or check out all the books I've found, this is my page. Enjoy! And Good Night!

Hope my library looks like this one day, only Prince would be there instead of the pug...

Echoes by Melinda Metz

Synopsis:

Can't believe she did that . . .

. . . at four-thirty I have to . . .

. . . I hate this place . . .

Rae Voight is losing her mind. When she walks down the halls of Sanderson Prep, she hears voices . . . even when no one is talking. Other people's thoughts crowd her head, a confusing tangle of insecurities and dark secrets. Just when Rae reaches her breaking point, one voice comes screaming through the din, loud and clear:

. . . Rae must die . . .

If Rae doesn't figure out who the thought belongs to soon, she could lose more than just her sanity...

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


So far I am liking the series. Wish I had the other books right now so I can find out who it is!! Although I have a pretty good idea after Haunted. No spoilers though! :)

I am a little disappointed that Rae and Antony's relationship didn't heat up. Looking forward to some smooching and it never happened. Ah well, maybe within the next few books. The epilogues were really haunting. Got goosebumps every time. In the third book's, when the stalker said my Rae, I had the willies all over!

The pacing in this novel was great. And I loved Metz idea of different fonts for individual thoughts. Usually when I read a novel where there's mind powers involved, it can become meddled but no troubles here!

Rae, as a character, I was okay with. She seemed a little out there to begin with. So your hearing voices, and you're trying to tell yourself you're totally normal. Okay Miss Delusional. As for Anthony, he grew attached too Rae a little too quick for me, and he's violent. Not to mention possessive in Trust Me. Loved Yana, she was fun and quirky, though I feel like there's a lot more to the girl. Secondary characters were okay, but not that fleshed out.

I like this cover better than the originals as well. Rae looks fiiine, for a girl I mean hah. Really want my skin to look that flawless.

Girl in the Arena by Lise Haines

Synopsis
Lyn is a neo-gladiator’s daughter, through and through. Her mother has made a career out of marrying into the high-profile world of televised blood sport, and the rules of the Gladiator Sports Association are second nature to their family. Always lend ineffable confidence to the gladiator. Remind him constantly of his victories. And most importantly: Never leave the stadium when your father is dying. The rules help the family survive, but rules—and the GSA—can also turn against you. When a gifted young fighter kills Lyn’s seventh father, he also captures Lyn’s dowry bracelet, which means she must marry him... For fans of The Hunger Games and Fight Club, Lise Haines’ debut novel is a mesmerizing look at a world addicted to violence—a modern world that’s disturbingly easy to imagine.


My rating: 1 of 5 stars


For some reason I could not get a good connection with this story, it's characters, anything really. I honestly found it a struggle to read through. I'd thought it would be set back in the actual roman-gladiator days, but come to find out it's set for today's time with minor adjustments in history. Should have probably caught on to that since the girl on the cover's toes were painted blue. I know that didn't happen in the 1st century! Lyn's voice, while most reviews found it to be sardonic, seemed boring. Her conflicts, though, felt real and I could identify with them but due to the pacing of this novel it took forever to really get anywhere. Around page 250 was when I started to get a little more interested, after the first date with Uber.

As far as the characters go, they all fell flat. Thad was the only one I was interested about, and only mildly. He was the main reason I continued to read this book, though I wish I hadn't. Thinking now that this book is better off to readers still in middle school.

Oh and by the way, -Why the hell would people set up dialogue like this, I say -It makes no sense whatsoever, and confuses readers for at least two chapters. HATED THAT!

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

Synopsis
Calla Tor has always known her destiny: After graduating from the Mountain School, she'll be the mate of sexy alpha wolf Ren Laroche and fight with him, side by side, ruling their pack and guarding sacred sites for the Keepers. But when she violates her masters' laws by saving a beautiful human boy out for a hike, Calla begins to question her fate, her existence, and the very essence of the world she has known. By following her heart, she might lose everything— including her own life. Is forbidden love worth the ultimate sacrifice?

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


How to even begin this review... Well first off I can't believe that I put this book back when I first saw it. I don't think that the synopsis truly captures this book. Think of Twilight but then switch Edward's and Bella's gender. And the fact that they're werewolves and not vamps. Pretty much that's the layout, though the plot of Nightshade has no comparison whatsoever.

Calla is a character I fell in love with. How do you pronounce it though?! CAL-LAH? KAY-UH? I went back and forth with it for awhile. Glad our novelist pronounced Samhain for us though. Thank you very much.

Back to Calla, as Bryn says, she is totally "badass." Wishing right now that I were a Guardian, and I totally wouldn't mind being in Calla's position when it come to the triangle including Ren and Shay. MMM, both those boys look fine! At least in my head they do. Where can I find boys like these in reality? Oh right, back to reviewing. Through most of the book I was with Ren. He possessed me with his actions, words, and definitely his description. With Shay, in the beginning, I felt like he was just a big whiner and was sticking his nose in everyone's business. As the story progressed, though, I could feel my own alliance shifting. Around page 372 to be exact. Pretty sure that I'm gonna stick with Ren....for now.

At the first couple chapters my head was spinning, trying to find out what the heck was going on. As it progressed I found the story was written wonderfully, and the pacing kept me on my toes. And the last few chapters leave me pining for so much more. Definitely will continue to read this series. Only one question kept popping up in my head, "Why did Calla save Shay?"

Do I really need to say anything about the cover? IT IS MAGNIFICENT!

Matched by Ally Condie

Synopsis

Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her: what to read, what to watch, what to believe. So when Xander's face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows with complete certainty that he is her ideal mate . . . until she sees Ky Markham's face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black.

The Society tells her it's a glitch, a rare malfunction, and that she should focus on the happy life she's destined to lead with Xander. But Cassia can't stop thinking about Ky, and as they slowly fall in love, Cassia begins to doubt the Society's infallibility and is faced with an impossible choice: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she's known and a path that no one else has dared to follow.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



AMAZING. Pretty much all I have to say. Haha, there are so many good reviews of this novel and I didn't even realize it until halfway finished. Happy to say I couldn't agree more.

I'm a huge fan of dystopia novels, can not get enough of them. From The Giver to the Uglies series. Each is unique and apparently their systems are totally wrong. At least for some certain individuals. Cassia is a beautiful, strong character. I devoured this book in only a few hours thanks to her.

Right from the synopsis, I knew how this book was going to end. Sorry to be a spoiler but if you don't already know that she chooses Ky, well I'm sorry but how do you think the first book of this trilogy will end?! Obviously she won't just settle with Xander, nothing would move forward from there! Not that I wasn't secretly rooting for Xander the whole time, he made this book twice as enjoyable.

As for Ky, I think I'll have to get to know him better as the series continues. There's a lot of mystery surrounding him. Just exactly how did he escape? Hmmm... One does wonder.

My only other comment on this series is the writing flow, I liked it. I can see a few places though where others might not. There's some moments where it seems fast. Only a few. I'll probably reread this in order to get a more in-depth look and see where my opinion goes. :)

Book of Love by Abra Ebner

Book of Love by Abra Ebner

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Synopsis

When seventeen-year-old Jane Taylor witnessed her father's death, something happened to her. Ever since, her thoughts have been consumed by death, going so far as to foresee the ever-changing deaths of those around her. Sixteen-year-old Emily Taylor resented her sister's closeness with their father, who died when she was six. With the strange ability to read minds, she drowns the voices out with drugs, sending Jane over the edge. When seventeen-year-old Wes Green was adopted, he moved in next door to Jane, finding in her a childhood friend turned high-school crush. All summer, the pain in his bones seemed unwarranted. He was done growing long ago. When senior year starts, however, the pain only gets worse. The foreseen changes are not expected, and far too animal for his taste. When Max Gordon found himself standing above the dying body of an innocent seven-year-old girl, he saw in her eyes something he hadn't seen in the century he'd spent roaming Earth. Her father was already dead, but there was hope to save her. Jane was her name, and already she was all he ever wanted. It was his job to bring her back, and it was his job to protect her - the biggest mistake of his life. When these four teens enter Glenwood High their senior year, no one but Max could understand the future ahead of them. Drawn together by blood and friendship, they each hide a dark secret that will soon bind them together. Max has to protect Jane, Jane wants to be normal, Wes wants Jane to love him, and Emily just wants the voices to stop... But their fate just wants them dead.



All in all, I really liked this book. Only a couple things set me off. I think the idea behind this story was fantastic. Angels are something I can not get enough of. Especially when there is an age-old battle involved, as there usually is with angels.

The characters were set up phenomenally, but as the story continued I felt like each character was losing their personality. Each one doubted themselves way too much, and what set me off more was how the author, Abra Ebner, continued to explain what each person's expression was and usually it was full of confidence. All the damn smirking was irritating. For any of you that reads the stories on Quizilla, I almost felt like I was reading another amateur's.

By far, I loved Wes the most. His point of view was the most anticipated. At first I was iffy, kinda like "What's this kids deal?" Then as he grew into himself, he became a force to be reckoned with. Jane, however, never captured my attention. As everyone around her figured what was going on and embraced it, she kept pushing against it. I loved hearing Emily's opinions of her sister, because I agreed so much. haha.

Only based on the ending am I going to read the second, Book of Revenge. The introduction of Avery really appealed to me. I cannot wait to read more of her. Really hoping Jane will be thrown for a loop!

Two more bones to pick. The quote on the back has NOTHING to do with the book. Really irked me.... And also throughout the book there were italicized bits that threw me off until the very end, once Emily admitted what she had done.

Wish by Alexandra Bullen

Synopsis

For broken-hearted Olivia Larsen, nothing can change the fact that her twin sister, Violet, is gone... until a mysterious, beautiful gown arrives on her doorstep. The dress doesn't just look magical; it is magical. It has the power to grant her one wish, and the only thing Olivia wants is her sister back.

With Violet again by her side, both girls get a second chance at life. And as the sisters soon discover, they have two more dresses-and two more wishes left. But magic can't solve everything, and Olivia is forced to confront her ghosts to learn how to laugh, love, and live again.

In a breathtaking debut from Alexandra Bullen, WISH asks the question: If you could have anything, what would you wish for?

My very first review!!! Aaack! Nerves are failing me, but lets get on with it:

Wish tackles a very serious question every boy and girl wants to know. If I could wish for anything.... Well I'd probably wish for a new Mitsubishi Endeavor. They're so sexy.
The main character, Olivia, has had an awful experience and she's been offered a chance to do something about it. Once Violet's returned Olivia feels like she doesn't even need two other wishes. How could she when she has everything she wanted? For one, I can't believe how totally selfless Olivia is. At that age how can you be so pragmatic. Then (with some assistance) she becomes uber popular and forgets her own morals. Little bit fishy to me. Violet though is a character I could relate to, then again I guess everyone related to Violet. So much charisma! As in most YA books I was disappointed with the parents. Not sure why but it seems every author needs to have the parent turn their back on their children in order for the story to get going. You'd think they'd keep a closer eye on the only daughter they have left!

The plot was for the most part straightforward. Only two times was I really surprised. And no I won't tell you where! I'm not the kind of person who lets cats out of the bag. They should stay there!

I'd hoped Myles had some more action. The whole time I was like "Okay, how does Myles play into all this?"

Overall I give it 3 out of 5. I liked the book and the idea behind it. Main characters were interesting, but secondary all fell flat. For this book the only thing I'd wish for is some more meat.