A Temptation of Angels Review

Overall rating: 6.5/10

I had high hopes for this book, since I’ve only have good experiences from reading a book that has a recommendation by MTV and also Seventeen.  Even the title lured me in; who could resist such an enticing, apparently forbidden promising title? Well, I’ll save all of my issues with this book till the end. 

Summary: This book takes place during the Victorian era, in London, England. Helen’s parents are killed in her home by villainous, mysterious beings; her mother forces her to escape without them. Only leaving her with a necklace with a very interesting pendant on it, and a note that has the address to a stranger’s house. The main plot revolves around solving the mystery of who the killer is, why, and how to stop it from continuing. 

Characters: The beginning, the very first few pages in fact, dives right into the action that’s predominate periodically throughout the story. The story is in the third person, through the perspective of the main character: Helen Cartwright. You are quickly introduced to the next most important characters: brothers Darius and Griffin. Darius is the typical character that seems to posses a mysterious, or tragic, past. Which is true, as you’ll discover early on in the book. As a consequence of his horrific experience, it’s very hard to gain his trust, but he’s protective of the ones who have earned it. Griffin’s outward personality is the complete opposite of his brother’s. He’s very friendly, and I dare say even nurturing. When I was about 1/5th of the way through the book, that song by kevjumba and Nigahiga “Nice Guys Finish Last” popped into my head. However, as I discovered later in the book it should of been “Bad Guys Finish Last” or “Nice Guys Finish First”, which ever you feel is more appealing.

Problems: I found that the book was a bit deceiving. On the back cover it promises a love-triangle; unfortunately, it wasn’t much of one. You don’t even meet the other guy till 1/3rd of the way through the book, and even then it’s not much of one. It only starts getting a bit heated, or conflicted, towards the end. Which is a big disappointment! Another thing, the title, A Temptation of Angels, seems as it would promise something forbidden, something of great, perhaps tragic, desire. Of coarse, this book failed to live up to the title. There was very little to none of such temptation! Now, the biggest problem I had with this book are the characters. None of the characters were dynamic; they lacked that essential depth required to really feel connected to a character, and not once did I feel empathetic of their emotions. It might just be the fact that it is in third person, but I felt like an outsider looking in on them. I subjectively think that only some select writers can effectively pull off 3rd person without leaving out interaction between the characters and the reader. Otherwise, I’d feel left out, in a sense, like I did with this book. For example, I had no idea why Helen was attracted to one of the brothers; he was as boring and static as hell. In addition, you can add the other brother and almost everyone else -though I did like Anna and her father-.

Similar book(s): I thought this book was tremendously similar to The City of Bones by Cassandra Clare. They both posses a new, secret world; which have been kept secret to the public. Both have enemies that must be fought to preserve humanity, or all the beings in the world, and they have strange weapons. It made me think, “Did Michelle Zink (Author of A Temptation…) first read the City of Bones and modeled her book after that one?” 

Conclusion: Nevertheless, it was still a somewhat enjoyable read. I have experienced reading painful books where I’m forced to put the book down, and maybe, if the book is lucky, I’ll try picking it up again in a year or so. However, I can assure you this book is not one of thosebooks, but it came awfully close. The book has its problems, but some may be able to overlook it; if so, then please try reading it and tell me what YOU think!

Catherine Review

Catherine by the fabulous April Lindner is a excellent retelling of the classic Wuthering Heights. After reading Jane by the same author, a retelling of Jane Eyre, I had high expectations for this book to meet, and I can assure you that I was not disappointed.  

Upon discovering a 14 year old hidden letter from her once thought dead mother, Chelsea takes the initiative to go on an adventure to put together the clues of her mother’s disappearance. Hoping that her mother may still be alive, she travels to The Underground, the renowned club and the home where her mother grew up. She comes across the very rude and moody Hence, her mother’s past love, who is now taking care of The Underground, and a cute and helpful employee Cooper.

I thought it was brilliant how the author pieced together the modern retelling of the classic, well loved story. The book is told in two perspectives:the past: her mother back in her youthful years and the present: her daughter’s search for her mother. The present searches to uncover the mystery of the past, and to emerge and grow from the past’s experiences. It kind of gave it a two in one story kind of feel, but they are completely connected and intertwined. 

It was interesting to compare how the characters changed from her mother’s time, the past, and to Chelsea’s, the present. The most dramatic being Hence. When being compared between the two time periods, I couldn't comprehend why he was so very different. Which it only added to the mystery in the book, and the reason will not disappoint. In addition, it’s also interesting to compare mother and daughter to how similar they may be, but also the differences due to conditioning as well.

A center theme to this book is motivation. Why did each character do what they did. Having Catherine, the mother, being the most important in this theme, and Hence in second place. It’s also interesting to see the emotions tied in with these motivations. I would love to give examples, but I swear I will not give away any spoilers to the book, however tempting it may be.

Overall this was a thoroughly enjoyable read. I recommend it to those who like classical literature, especially to those who enjoy the Bronte sisters or maybe even Austin, and to those who are interested in the punk music scene as well-though keep in mind it does play a good role, it isn’t a central theme-. For other similar reads, I suggest Wuthering Heights-of coarse- and Jane by the same author, April Lindner. 

Cruel Beauty Review ☆☆☆☆☆

Rosamund Hodge's debut novel, Cruel Beauty, exceeded my expectations! It was phenomenal! I can most certainly state that Cruel Beauty is with my top 3 favorites. Thus, it's not surprising that I am giving it 5 out of 5 amazing stars! 

In this enchanting retelling of Beauty and the Beast, where Greek mythology is still ever present, Nyx has been raised with the sole purpose of being a tribute and wife to the Gentle Lord. Determined to defeat her future husband, she trains in the magical arts and take up a plan to do so. However, Nyx didn't plan for the Gentle Lord to be so charming. Will she be able to kill him? 

Firstly, I just absolutely loved the general idea and the plot. I was hooked at the beginning and it kept my attention till the conclusion of the novel. I'll admit that Greek mythology in the young adult genre is becoming a bit overused, but don't let that prevent you from reading this masterpiece. It is used in a refreshing way. All of the twists and surprises in this book were amazing; it's another key piece that made this book standout. I'm fairly used to not being surprised, so that should really say something. 

The relationships between Nyx and her 2ish, really one, romantic interest(s) were utterly unique. Their banter is perhaps my favorite part between them! Their dynamics were mysterious at first, and this just ties into my above point as to how it took surprising turns that truly made sense in the end. The love that they have for each other seems realistic, despite it having magical elements, and envious. 

The only issue I had with Cruel Beauty is that it was a little fuzzy when explaining the reasons behind how the final issue is resolved. Perhaps I'm just not intelligent enough, though I was able to kind make sense of it, but still remained pretty uncertain if I assumed correctly or not. 

I first came across this book several months ago when trying to find something to read. I regret having waited so long, but better late than never, right? :D Anyway, some similar reads are: The Bone Season (review here) and The Color of Rain (link here). 

Forget You Review

Forget you by Jennifer Echols is the third book that I have read by this author, and by now I definitely have a ranking of which ones I prefer:

1. Going Too Far
2. Such a Rush
3. Forget You

So, I was not exactly impressed by this book, but it wasn't horrible. 2.5 out of 5 stars. 

Zoey's world is turned upside down when her self-absorbed father gets her twenty-four year-old employee pregnant and her mother attempts suicide, placing her in a mental institution. Having to keep up appearances for her parents' reputations, she pretends everything is fine. Again, her world is shaken up when she wakes up after she's been involved in a car crash with Doug, previously on bad terms, being too intimate with her. She already has her boyfriend Brandon!

What brought this book down are two things: Zoey's annoying trait of showing weakness and the lack of interesting plot when compared to Echols' previous works.

Zoey doesn't remember everything that happened during and shortly after the accident. In addition to the strange string of events (i.e. Doug being all kind and intimate with her). So what does she do to try to figure out what happen? She lies to everyone about not remembering, making excuses and pretending that she remembers, and goes to extents that make her look a little crazy. Her strong reluctance to show weakness and actually ask someone directly involved is beyond annoying! I just wanted to scream at her and tell her to just go ask Doug what happened and that would be it! Just go straight to the source to eliminate all of this insanity! However, if she did do that, about 90% of the book would of been done away with.

Another annoying flaw of Zoey is her misconceptions about other people. Plainly a bad judgement of character. This is most prominent in her perception of her relationship with her "boyfriend" Brandon. It's simply infuriating. She just refuses to acknowledge the reality of their relationship and goes further by lying to herself about it and to others.

Echols' other books are very good, especially Going Too Far, yet this is definitely not up to par. It lacks excitement and originality that they had. It just felt like another mediocre book, really. I expected a lot more from Jennifer Echols, contributing to my negative review because of my disappointment. All I can really say is that she tried. Some other books kind of similar to this is: My Life Next Door (review here) and Anna and the French Kiss (review here). 

The Chosen One Review

The Chosen Ones by Carol Lynch Williams was a interesting tale to say the least. I found it is most fitted for a middle grade audience; however, that did not mean I did not enjoy it. Overall, it's a 3 out of 5 stars.

Kyra comes from a big family: 3 mothers, 1 father, and tons of siblings. They live in a compound, secluded in the middle of the desert where the prophet rules with a heartless, radically rigorous fist. Kyra has obeyed all of the deeply pious rules implemented by the mighty prophet, but it's until he announces that 13 year-old Kyra will have to marry her 60-something year-old uncle!

Kyra's character stays true to her age. She is not unusually bright for her age, she rebels and has noteworthy persistence. As the narrator of this novel, her opinions and perception are not completely skewed by the absurdities of the religion that she follows and the prophet's crimes against humanity. Despite this, she is not overly unique, she sounds like mostly conventional tween.

The whole aspect of polygamy in this book is presented on its negative type of it. The women have no choice if they want to follow polygamy or not; in addition, they have no choice as to who they can marry. Their sole purpose is to serve their husband, have tons of kids and to raise them. Nothing else. Which, of coarse, leads to the misogyny in the book. Luckily, Kyra resists it passively at first, still believing she's committing sins and thus feels guilt over it, and then it leads to her eventual proactive forms of it despite tremendous, lethal dangers.

The romance in the novel is how it should be: puppy love. They meet at dark in secret places to talk, read, or make out. It's all very innocent in its essence. It's what is expected of a tween-teen romance, not some adult version with explicit actions being done. Again, acceptable for a tween, middle grade demographic.

The novel was mildly entertaining enough to keep me reading; I was not glued to the page. It wasn't until the end that I became more intrigued. Similar books include:  The Color Of Rain (link here) and The Registry (link here). 

Some Quiet Place Review

Title: Some Quiet Place

Author: Kelsey Sutton

Publisher: Flux

Pages: 336

Some Quiet Place by Kelsey Sutton is a strange book. Strange in a unique sort of way. It takes a completely original idea and simply runs with it. Because I did have to force myself to read the first 100 pages, I have to give this book a 2.5 out of 5. 

Elizabeth has never been the same since the car accident when she was 4/5. Since then, her family and home life turned abusive and non comforting. Elizabeth simply cannot feel emotions; although, she can see them in their otherworldly humanoid form. This intrigues the emotion Fear. Thus, it makes it a challenge to try to get to the bottom of this circumstance. 

The idea of having a protagonist who doesn't feel anything but physical pain is utterly original and unique. However, this does prove to become utterly boring after the first few scenes. As one can probably imagine, a character that lacks emotion is incredibly boring. The only thing that makes up for it is about mid way through the book is the change of pace that thankfully saves this book from my unfinished pile. 

The love triangle in this book kind of put me off a bit. I just have an issue with it in general, so the who dynamic kind of annoyed me. "Just choose one and stop playing with the other, " is what I wanted to tell Elizabeth for the majority of this book!

The plot was interesting enough to keep me mildly to moderately entertained. Although, I should give it credit for the mild plot twists/surprises at the end. Overall, though, it was just okay. The idea is the only thing that is special. 

So if you have read Some Quiet Place already and disagree with me, then let me suggest The Coldest Girl in Coldtown (Link here) and The Registry (link here). 

Every Day Review

Title: Every Day (Hard Cover)

Author: David Levithan

Publisher: Ember

Pages: 322

Firstly, I must say that this is a phenomenal book that was filled to the brim with lessons and wisdom. When I picked up Every Day by David Levithan, I surely did not expect it to be so absolutely meaningful, so easy to relate to, like seriously! It can connect to all walks of life. Due to the pure awesomeness that Is Every Day, it deserves nothing less than a 4.8 out of 5. 

This is a first person narrative detailing the lives of A during a forty day period. A doesn't have a body of it's own, instead from the day A was born, A enters a body of host for only a day. By midnight, A is ripped from that body and moves on to the next. A has no control over it. So A lives every day by trying not to make a significant impact on the host's lives. However, that's not until he meets Rihannon; she changes everything. 

The thing that stood at the most is most certainly all of the lessons and experiences that are contained within this terrific book. A possesses the body of such diverse people: a suicidal girl, a drug addict, an morbidly obese guy, a transgender teen, and many other kinds of people. Along with these experiences, A gifts the reader with countless wisdom and lessons that is to be received. It's what made this book stand out.

Consequently, this wisdom is what ultimately leads to the conclusion of the book. There is no tragedy, per se, but it's no happily ever after. And I appreciate it for that. Finally a book where the protagonist is realistic, ironically in a very unrealistic book, and is caring enough to let go what it loves the most for the benefit of the loved person.

The only issue I had with this book is the whole love at first sight stuff. I might just be too logical and cold-hearted, but it just doesn't seem right or realistic to me. However, I easily overlooked it as I became intrigued to other parts of this book.

If you haven't gone out and read this book yet, you need to get a copy immediately! It'll stick with you for a while. Here are some similar books: Wanderlove (link here) and Slammed (link here). 

What I Saw and How I Lied Review

What I Saw and How I Lied by Judy Blundell was not a let down, that I can say for 100% certainty. I found this book while I was browsing around at my local library, looking for something to read. I had given up hope about finding a truly good book, as I have encountered a multitude of duds. This book has given me hope again. I'd say this definitely deserves a four out of five stars. 

Evelyn, her mother, and step-father, decide on a last minute decision to leave their home (well, the step-father's mother's home) and to go on a vacation at the very end of summer to Florida. Upon arrival, they discover that the town is practically deserted. However, they become friendly with some of the few people there. Among them includes Peter, a twenty-three-year-old ex-GI who happens to be visiting for business. 

The expectations that came along with the National Book Award sticker on the book did not wither while reading this book. In fact, it kept me so sucked in, I read it in less than twenty-four hours. Throughout the book, it maintained about the same level of interest, creating a sort of dreamy atmosphere around it. 

The book is filled with mystery in it, as there are events that happen that just don't seem right, even if Evelyn herself fails to recognize it or pushes it away. After several suspicious events, I began trying to piece the story together to find the truth to no avail. It wasn't until the last few chapters that most of the truth was revealed. And it all made complete sense! Some suspicious were confirmed while other precious were proved to be misconceptions. That's what made this book utterly fantastic! 

Evelyn starts out as a insecure young 15-year-old who is dependent on her best friend. She's envious of the other girls and her mother who seem to have all that she doesn't. Through her experiences in Florida and the danger shoved in her face she develops as a strong character. However, it's not all black and white, but overflowing with gray. It's a tale of self-discovery, lessons learned, character growth. 

The romance in this book is twisted over backwards with a hint of suspicious. For instance, Peter is twenty-three and Evelyn is 15, something must be wrong for a man in his twenties to want to be with a mere teenager, right? But, does love know no bounds? And what's with Peter being already acquainted with Eve's step-father and his poorly hidden contempt towards him? Don't even get me started with the mom...

This is a perfect read for this time of the year: summer! Oh, and one last thing: while reading this book, the song Florida Kilos by Lana Del Rey popped into my head. I don't think there is a more perfect song to fit this book. Hear for yourself: Florida Kilos. Anyway, this is a good young adult read. Similar books are: The Bone Season (link here) and Stolen (link here). 

The Assassin's Curse Review

The Assassin's Curse by Cassandra Rose Clarke was simply a fantastic read. It had senses of adventure, danger, and a hint of romance. It's totally worth a score of 4 bright and shining stars out of 5. 

Ananna is the daughter of the main captain of a pirate clan who is being coerced into an arranged marriage with another pirate clan by her parents. So, what's a girl to do? Well, she decides to throw caution to the wind and to leave everyone behind to gain her freedom. However, this does not happen without consequence. The other pirate clan sends out the infamous assassin who is rumored to have never failed an assassin mission. This is where the main story begins. 

The beginning of the book did not fail to make me interested right off the bat. A girl escaping an arranged marriage? Never fails to keep my eyes glued to the page, all two to three times. I loved the adventure in this book; it takes you numerous places that are filled with magic, mystery, and intrigue. It takes place in an imaginary world filled with permitted, and of coarse some forbidden, magic. 

What I loved the most about this book is the relationship between Ananna and Naji. It's unique in how it was Naji's original intent to murder Ananna, then from there their relationship grows and moves into different stages. I admire that, no love at first sight crap. Of coarse, it does grow eventually. It's not fully realized on both parties in this book, however. They are absolutely great as a pair! Especially, taken into account the struggles they have to go through together. Including, betrayal, sense of hopelessness, being forced together by a curse, and the uncertainty of reciprocated feels, or feelings that lie elsewhere. 

I would recommend this book to those who are within the middle school range to about fifteen or sixteen. The book's main demographic seems to be this age group as it doesn't have too mature themes within it. For similar reads, I suggest: Alice in Zombieland (link here) and Between the Lines (link here). 

Alienated Review

Alienated by Melissa Landers is a spectacular novel that thoroughly entertained me. It is a enjoyable read, especially if you are looking for something a little different from the cliche teenage high school plot. On a scale of 1 to 5, I'd rate it 3.75 out of 5. 

The title of this book has a double meaning when connecting it to the events in this book. Cara, is selected to be the hostess of the very first ever exchange student from L'eihr: Aelyx. Despite being almost completely genetically identical to humans, there are some few key differences and a whole lot of  cultural ones as well. Aelyx has secret plans that could threaten everything on Earth and key relations with his home plant. And let's not forget about the growing tension between him and Cara.

I liked that this was a duel perspective novel; it allowed us to truly understand the mentality and thought process behind the two main characters: Cara and Aelyx. In turn, you actually believe perhaps a little more than a singular perspective in the actual chemistry between the romantic interests.

The sci-fi element made it deviate from the traditional sort of high school drama book; in turn, it spiced it up by formulating different, yet complex conflicts within the plot. Maybe I'm just not too familiar with young adult sci-fi books, but I have to say there are not many with human and alien relations. And it's not some bizarre reptilian alien, or grey alien, however, that could be quite interesting too.... yeah, I'd probably read that >.< haha

Cara's parents and family relationships are not neglectful or just non-existent! Her parents are actually in her life and they have a good, healthy relationship! Although, to me, her mom seemed like a bit of a weak character (no, not because of the crying), while her dad was more of a proactive and useful character (even a couple of times humorous).

I absolutely adored how the author forces you to change your perspective on certain characters. It's really surprising! First you love them, then you are shocked and despise them, and then you love them again!

Some similar reads to this one would be The Color of Rain (link here) or Across the Universe (link here).

Angelfall Review

Angelfall by Susan Ee was a book that I simply picked up on impulse. After spending perhaps about half a hour browsing books, and gradually becoming disheartened as I was not finding anything I liked, I just chose a random book and decided to read it. For an overall rating, I'd rate it as 3 out of 5.

After the angels have descended upon Earth, complete havoc and chaos was unleashed. Destroying the conventional structure of human civilization, humans are now prey for the angels. Penryn, her mentally ill mother, and her disabled younger sister try to merely survive in this dystopian world. Until one night, they witness a fight among the angels, and, unfortunately, are discovered where upon they become their target. It's up to Penryn to save her family with the help of a potentially dangerous, yet otherworldly attractive, angel.

First off, I liked that there was no love at first sight crap! Although, undoubtedly, their sexual attraction cannot be denied, they initially loathed and didn't trust each other. Over time, as they go though mutual experiences together, they begin to learn and trust one another. Subjectively, this gives the notion that  it's more realistic in its nature, since they have to (or should) work through their problems first in order to become anything more. Real couples deal with real problems. Thus, giving more weight to their relationship. With that said, I feel as if I must state that their relationship isn't exactly unique or special, instead, it's comparable to many other relationships from other books. It deviates from the love at first sight crap, but it's certainly no Anna and Etienne (Click Here for my review of Anna and the French Kiss).

The first page hooked me; it took little effort for Susan Ee to capture my attention. It seems that there is a correlation between the more books I read, and the harder it is to start reading a book and being immediately immersed in its unique waters. This book was one of the rare ones. When reading the middle of the book, my interest began to die down a bit. The plot seemed to have simmered down and get a little boring. Despite this, my interest level was peeked again to a whole new level at the conclusion of the book. Oh my, that ending! Never before have I read such a surprising ending with such a sinister twist! I absolutely loved it!

Read this book if you like surprise, sinister endings or dystopian societies. Throughout the book, if you were like me, your feelings toward it will range from interested, bored, surprised and delighted. For similar reads, I suggest The Bone Season (Review Here) or The Immortal Rules (Review Here). 

Chosen At Nightfall Review

Chosen at Nightfall is the fifth and final installment to the Shadow Falls series by C.C. Hunter. Over the pass two and a half years, I have enjoyed reading the series and being in despair while waiting for the release date. To my dismay, however, this final conclusion seemed to be rather disappointing and somewhat of a let down. It's not necessarily bad, but it just did not live up to expectations. I guess I shall give it a 3 out of 5. 

Unfortunately, the plot of the book is not really too interesting, with the exception of a chapter or two in the middle and a couple of chapters towards the end, so I had to really be dedicated and made myself read the majority of this book. In fact, after reading the first page, I just wanted to close my eyes and go to sleep. The climax was a bit anticlimactic, especially since entire climax that has been built up the entire series is only a brief chapter that get's quickly taken care of. It seemed as though the author didn't put too much thought into it and just wanted to get it over with. The resolution was dull, which I suppose is to be expected, but still. Perhaps my distaste for the plot is caused from my evolving tastes and opinions, thus don't cloud your judgement with my opinions. I want to know your thoughts.

Throughout this whole series, there is a big freaking, annoying love-triangle between Kylie, Lucas, and Derek. If you're like me, and not exactly a fan of love-triangles or even the gasp! maddening love-polygon, then this book will at least give you closure to Kylie's infuriating indecisiveness. She has been caught between the hot, passionate, werewolf Lucas and the caring, lovable fairy Derek. If I had it my way, I'd have Kylie just pick both, have a open or mutually consensual two-way relationship. However, if I had to choose, I would pick Derek because he seems to truly care for her holistic well being. He understands and accepts her for who she is; what's more, he doesn't experience turmoil for it! On the other hand, Lucas is the all hot and passionate love who is required to have intense loyalty to his werewolf pack... a pack that excludes Kylie. Therefore, it's annoying as he tries to have both without thinking of Kylie. 

Though in this new installment, he has made his decision: Kylie. Thus Lucas suffers the consequences and he's been shunned from the majority of the werewolf community. Kylie suffers the same turmoil that she is the reason for Lucas' decision; in addition, continually grieves over Lucas' betrayal. She spends the majority of the book grieving and just being sad over Lucas. That is pretty much all she feels: sadness over Lucas, Lucas, and... guess who? Lucas. As a reader, it is immensely annoying having to constantly read about her whining. Make a decision, take action, just freaking DO something! 

The chemistry between Kylie and Lucas seemed fake, or just that there is a big gap that's missing. I could kind of understand why they wanted to be together, main reason perhaps being lust, though I feel as though lust is definitely insufficient to justify devoted love and commitment. It simply did not seem real. 

What I loved the most about this novel is Holiday and Burnett! They are the most adorable characters within the book! They both provide to be role models and idols, though they become human when their flaws are shown. However, isn't that also what make them role models, acknowledging their mistakes/flaws and trying to do something about it. I had an easier time believing in their relationship as opposed to almost every other!

1.  Does Chosen at Nightfall live up to the previous prequels? 
2. What are your thoughts on the resolution of Kylie's indecisiveness regarding her love interests?
3. Are you looking forward towards the new spin-off series featuring Della as the protagonist? 

The Registry Review

The Registry by Shannon Stoker was, admittedly, a somewhat dull story. It's a tale filled with adventure, escape, murder, and among others, so I'd understand if someone were to have a completely opposite opinion. I  generously give it a 1.5 out of 5. 

I just could not connect to the story, particularly Mia. Her ignorance is annoying, though perfectly understandable as she was purposefully raised that way. The book contradicts itself when despite Mia's ignorance (ex. not knowing basic math), she know's words like synapses and their function. Makes no sense. Although the story is what many would consider action packed, edge of your seat entertainment, it was instead just boring. I really had to force myself to read all of it; sometimes, I honestly wonder why I torture myself and waste my time with uninteresting books. I just skimmed the last 40 or so pages, only getting the basic details that confirmed what I already predicted what would happen.

Of coarse the future day, neo-America is a woman's nightmare, a land digressed to past ways before the women's rights movement. The government had programmed nearly every denizen to these radical, misogynistic beliefs, but at least Mia takes charge of her own destiny and attempt to escape by crossing the USA-Mexican border. Along their journey, they encountered a few people that aren't blinded by the stupid beliefs and possess more feminist views instead. In particular, I especially love Frank and Alex! They were one of the very rare decent characters. 

If you're one to detest love triangles, then this could still be an alright book, but be warned: there are multiple potential love interests. However, it's only towards the end. At least I didn't not feel too connected to the first, most obvious choice, so to someone who detests love triangles, it probably won't be much of a turn off. 

This book was painful to read. It lacks great depth, elegance, and rather literal- if that makes sense. I would not recommend this book to anyone, unless they want to easily fall asleep. You can tell the author really did try, but it just did not meet expectations. It had potential.  

Wanderlove Review

Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard was not merely a random book that I picked off the shelf, rather after reading Just One Day I was hit with the longing to travel. Dismally, at the moment, I don't have the means to do so. In order to temporarily suppress the urge, I did the next best thing: vicariously live through a story that's saturated with it. This book irrevocably deserves a 4 out of 5. 

The sketches and the lists/rules in this book is what seriously set it apart from most other books. They were cute and complimented it as a whole nicely. It kind of helped me get inside the heroine Bria's head and allowed further insight into her character. Nevertheless, I must reiterate, they were entirely cute. Provided some comic relief in certain sections of the book. 

To be honest, I was slightly disappointed for the first 60ish pages. I didn't initially like Bria; she displayed annoying qualities that I plainly loathed: lying, sticking to the ugly past... However, I eventually became enlightened, this was old, transformed Bria. It was necessary to have her annoying and loathsome like this in order to have her transformed into a way more agreeable, enlightened heroine. I grew to love her. The further you were invested into the story, the more you discovered about Bria's character and her past. Personally, I eventually uncovered the reasoning behind her lies and even sympathized with her. (Note: lying is only a minor subject, it's not a primarily immoral book, it's the opposite actually. I mostly guarantee, this book will likely stick with you for awhile.)

I am sooo envious (not jealous, mind you) of Bria! Before reading this, I've never really been too interest in the backpacking lifestyle, perhaps due to my ignorance of it. But now, I am remarkably ready to begin my own backpacking adventure somewhere outside North America. Hostels, Mayan ruins, lakes, islands, and festivals, I want to experience it all! However, like I stated earlier, travel stories will have to satiate me for now.

The relationship between Bria and Rowan (travel-brother? love interest? -will try not to spoil- ) was initially a complicated one. Certainly, the topics concerning their past that were off limits was a definite obstacle in having an honest and healthy relationship. And again, making their transformation even more meaningful. There was more to this than simply a "common romance"; it stood out. The complexity allowed them to grow and seem multidimensional. Let me say, there really isn't any "instantaneous love at first sight crap".  

Those hit with the travel bug and cannot actually travel, read this. 

Those who enjoy a good coming of age, growing up story, read this.

Finally, those who are looking for something potentially a bit different, must I repeat? Read this. 

The Coldest Girl in Coldtown Review

Coldest Girl in Coldtown by Holly Black is a vampire paranormal young adult read. It possesses action, violence, a dystopian society, and an accompanying element of a small romance. Overall, I would determine that it's a 4 out of 5 book. 

Firstly, I applaud the heroine Tana for caring about more than just her love interest. Thank you Holly Black. Tana cares about the vampire boy that she was raised to hate and fear, but instead she actually saved him from other vampires that purse to kill him. One may blame that she was not mentally stable after discovering that all of the kids at the party she was at were viciously murdered. However, this proved that she could be trusted by the vampire and in turn the vampire helped save her life. Thus on goes their short journey to Coldtown, an quarantined area dedicated to keeping all the vampires and humans inside in, allowing no escape-of coarse, unless you have a marker from turning in a vampire. 

I absolutely loved all of the action within this book! There was not a long, boring dull moment that would have tainted the book. Granted there were some small somewhat dull moments, though only minute. The surprises I honestly did not see coming! They kept coming and coming all the way until the conclusion of the story. In hindsight, it's interesting to see what instigated what, figuring out all the turning points and connections. 

The book offers another look or dimension to the well filled vampire literature that have flooded the young adult section of the book industry in recent years. However, this story has a unique setting and fabulous characters that will continue to shock you. Nothing is exactly as it seems. So even if you've read a shitload of vampire books, give this a try anyway. I'm sure you won't be disappointed. 

The relationship between Tana and Gavriel is great but rather twisted at the same time. It's not exactly your conventional kind of relationship. Though I do love it for that reason, but also that it seems equal. Tana is no damsel in distress, instead she takes on the more heroic persona who rescues others, including her strong, male love interest. This serves as foundation for the equal relationship where Tana doesn't completely, and unreasonably, obsess over Gavriel. They're a great killing duo!