The Bone Season Book Review

The Bone Season

By Samantha Shannon

Published August 2013
Goodreads

The year is 2059. Nineteen-year-old Paige Mahoney is working in the criminal underworld of Scion London, based at Seven Dials, employed by a man named Jaxon Hall. Her job: to scout for information by breaking into people’s minds. For Paige is a dreamwalker, a clairvoyant and, in the world of Scion, she commits treason simply by breathing.

It is raining the day her life changes for ever. Attacked, drugged and kidnapped, Paige is transported to Oxford – a city kept secret for two hundred years, controlled by a powerful, otherworldly race. Paige is assigned to Warden, a Rephaite with mysterious motives. He is her master. Her trainer. Her natural enemy. But if Paige wants to regain her freedom she must allow herself to be nurtured in this prison where she is meant to die.

The Bone Season introduces a compelling heroine and also introduces an extraordinary young writer, with huge ambition and a teeming imagination. Samantha Shannon has created a bold new reality in this riveting debut.

WOW. So happy I finally picked up this book! It's sat on my shelf for a couple of years and I wish I'd read it sooner!

I read this in 2 days. If that doesn't show how much I enjoyed it...

Being book one of a fantasy series (with lots of hard to pronounce names) it took me a little while to feel like I understood what was really happening. There were also a few parts where info was dumped pretty heavily, but it wasn't too bad. I'm really intrigued by this new world and I don't feel like I've ever read anything quite like this. I quickly loved it and can't wait to see where the series goes from here!

Oh, I also just found out that there's supposed to be SEVEN books in this series? For some reason I'd always heard this was a duology so I was only expecting one more! It's like Christmas!

Half-Blood by Jennifer L. Armentrout | BOOK REVIEW

Half-Blood by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Series: Covenant #1
Published October 2011

Synopsis:The Hematoi descend from the unions of gods and mortals, and the children of two Hematoi pure bloods have godlike powers. Children of Hematoi and mortals--well, not so much. Half-bloods only have two options: become trained Sentinels who hunt and kill daimons or become servants in the homes of the pures.
Seventeen-year-old Alexandria would rather risk her life fighting than waste it scrubbing toilets, but she may end up slumming it anyway. There are several rules that students at the Covenant must follow. Alex has problems with them all, but especially rule #1:Relationships between pures and halfs are forbidden. Unfortunately, she's crushing hard on the totally hot pure-blood Aiden. But falling for Aiden isn't her biggest problem--staying alive long enough to graduate the Covenant and become a Sentinel is.If she fails in her duty, she faces a future worse than death or slavery: being turned into a daimon, and being hunted by Aiden. And that would kind of suck.

My Review (with spoilers):

SERIES REVIEW: The Raven Cycle by Maggie Stiefvater

The Raven Cycle Series Review

Published September 2012
Synopsis:

Every year, Blue Sargent stands next to her clairvoyant mother as the soon-to-be dead walk past. Blue never sees them--until this year, when a boy emerges from the dark and speaks to her.
His name is Gansey, a rich student at Aglionby, the local private school. Blue has a policy of staying away from Aglionby boys. Known as Raven Boys, they can only mean trouble.
But Blue is drawn to Gansey, in a way she can't entirely explain. He is on a quest that has encompassed three other Raven Boys: Adam, the scholarship student who resents the privilege around him; Ronan, the fierce soul whose emotions range from anger to despair; and Noah, the taciturn watcher who notices many things but says very little.
For as long as she can remember, Blue has been warned that she will cause her true love to die. She doesn't believe in true love, and never thought this would be a problem. But as her life becomes caught up in the strange and sinister world of the Raven Boys, she's not so sure anymore.

My Review:

The Unexpected Everything by Morgan Matson | BOOK REVIEW

The Unexpected Everything by Morgan Matson

Published May 2016
Synopsis:


Andie had it all planned out.
When you are a politician’s daughter who’s pretty much raised yourself, you learn everything can be planned or spun, or both. Especially your future.
Important internship? Check.
Amazing friends? Check.
Guys? Check (as long as we’re talking no more than three weeks).
But that was before the scandal. Before having to be in the same house with her dad. Before walking an insane number of dogs. That was before Clark and those few months that might change her whole life.
Because here’s the thing—if everything’s planned out, you can never find the unexpected. And where’s the fun in that?

The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han

The Summer I Turned Pretty

By: Jenny Han
Published: May 5th, 2009
Series: Summer #1
Source: Gift from Family!

Belly measures her life in summers. Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August. Winters are simply a time to count the weeks until the next summer, a place away from the beach house, away from Susannah, and most importantly, away from Jeremiah and Conrad. They are the boys that Belly has known since her very first summer--they have been her brother figures, her crushes, and everything in between. But one summer, one terrible and wonderful summer, the more everything changes, the more it all ends up just the way it should have been all along.

I really enjoyed this book! This is my third book by Jenny Han, and it's safe to say she's become one of my favorite Contemporary authors!

I loved that this book felt so real. I could definitely relate to Belly being the only girl among a bunch of boys. And sadly, I can also relate to her about liking her brother's friends, but them just seeing you as "the little sister". I DID find Belly to be a little annoying at times.. but she WAS only fifteen years old! I was definitely pretty annoying at 15! I enjoyed her story though! I was jealous of her summer! I would love to relax and tan all day!

I didn't quite love this book as much as her other books, but I'm excited to continue the trilogy! I felt like it was lacking a bit with the romance and character development. I know that we got to see Belly's feelings, but I was a little let down that more didn't come from her crush. I think that's coming in book 2!

What did you all think of this book?!

Isla and the Happily Ever After by Stephanie Perkins

Isla and the Happily Ever After
By Stephanie Perkins
Publication Date: August 14th, 2014
Source: Publisher
Series: Anna and the French Kiss #3

From the glittering streets of Manhattan to the moonlit rooftops of Paris, falling in love is easy for hopeless dreamer Isla and introspective artist Josh.

But as they begin their senior year in France, Isla and Josh are quickly forced to confront the heartbreaking reality that happily-ever-afters aren’t always forever.

Their romantic journey is skillfully intertwined with those of beloved couples Anna and Étienne and Lola and Cricket, whose paths are destined to collide in a sweeping finale certain to please fans old and new.

This book is finally on sale today! *party time*

This was one of my most anticipated books of the year, and I was so lucky to be able to read an early copy thanks to Penguin! Stephanie Perkins is such a fun and lovely writer and I will continue to always pick up her books in the future!

As you've already seen, I gave this book 5/5 stars just like I gave Lola and Anna! While this book did contain super cute parts just like in the first two that made you squeal and giggle, I will say that it had a lot less of that than the others. Just so you know. Just so you're warned.

To me this romance seemed a lot more realistic. It also seemed more adult than the others... A few of you will agree with me and a few of you are going to shake your heads and yell, "what?! It was instalove!" I disagree. I loved that Stephanie showed what can happen to two teens in love once they are FINALLY together. We got to actually see them go through problems together.

Now, to be honest I would much rather read a sweet and happy book about two adorable people falling in love, like in  like Anna and Lola, instead of two people arguing and come close to falling out of it. But I can appreciate both types of stories.

While I would say that Isla is my least favorite of the three, I LOVED what happened when the whole group met up! It was perfect!

I definitely recommend this book if you love contemporary books, and ESPECIALLY if you have already read the first two!

What did you all think of the book?! What's your favorite of the three?

Lux Consequences - Opal & Origin by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Lux Consequences - Opal & Origin

By: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Published: June 3rd, 2014
Series: Lux #3 & #4
Source: Purchased from B&N

Opal:
No one is like Daemon Black.

When he set out to prove his feelings for me, he wasn’t fooling around. Doubting him isn’t something I’ll do again, and now that we’ve made it through the rough patches, well... There’s a lot of spontaneous combustion going on.

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

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

Origin:
Daemon will do anything to get Katy back.

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

All Katy can do is survive.

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

Together, they can face anything.

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

And will they even be together?

Overall, I really like this series. It's not making my favorite list any time soon, but they are definitely fun reads!

I really enjoyed this last book, Origin, mainly because of all of the new exciting stuff! (and boy was it PACKED full too!) New setting, new characters, new enemies, new problems, I loved it. While I really enjoyed the first book, I found books two and three, while enjoyable, to be rather repetitive. That's why I really appreciated Origin! Honestly, the problems that took place in the beginning of the series seem SO tiny now compared to where the characters are now. I appreciate Jennifer L. Armentrout expanding out and including SO much more about the other Luxen and Daedalus!

Excited for my signed copy of Opposition to get here! I saw that it had shipped two days ago! Eek!

What do you all think of the series so far? Have you got your hands on Opposition yet?!

Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas

Heir of Fire 
By Sarah J. Maas
Publication Date: September 2nd, 2014
Source: Netgalley
Series: Throne of Glass #3

Lost and broken, Celaena Sardothien’s only thought is to avenge the savage death of her dearest friend: as the King of Adarlan’s Assassin, she is bound to serve this tyrant, but he will pay for what he did. Any hope Celaena has of destroying the king lies in answers to be found in Wendlyn. Sacrificing his future, Chaol, the Captain of the King’s Guard, has sent Celaena there to protect her, but her darkest demons lay in that same place. If she can overcome them, she will be Adarlan’s biggest threat – and his own toughest enemy.

While Celaena learns of her true destiny, and the eyes of Erilea are on Wendlyn, a brutal and beastly force is preparing to take to the skies. Will Celaena find the strength not only to win her own battles, but to fight a war that could pit her loyalties to her own people against those she has grown to love?

Miss my past reviews?
Throne of Glass book review
Crown of Midnight book review

It's official. I'm calling it. The Throne of Glass series is my new favorite series and it's also my top three favorite reads of 2014. I love everything about this series that Sarah J. Maas has created (and I love her! She is the nicest person and is one of those authors that will actually reply back to you on Twitter)

I thought that the first two were amazing, but this book is my favorite so far. We got to see Celaena face her Fae side and it was so cool! Getting to read about Celaene learn how to control her magic was one of my favorite parts of this book.

I LOVED the new Fae and Demi-Fae characters in this book with Rowan being my favorite. I loved reading about his backstory and I just really liked his character! He has so many layers and I can't wait to continue reading about him! I'm definitely interested in how he is going to tie into the rest of this series!

Okay, so although I really love Rowan, were you guys freaking out a bit though?!
It's insane because during the first two books, I adored Chaol. I really liked Celaena and Chaol together, but after the end of Crown of Midnight... I don't think that they can come back from that. Every time she thinks of him she thinks of her best friend lying dead on a bed. (Real romantic) I feel like that will always hang over them.

Another huge issue is one that Dorian already pointed out and that's that Chaol struggles with accepting Celaena for who she really is, Aelin. It's almost like he wishes that he could just love certain parts of her, but you can't do that. And now, Celaena is embracing her true Fae side even more. She is stepping up and is becoming who she was born to be. She should only surround herself with people that will help her move forward, and not hold her back. I mean she is a QUEEN. She has other people to think about.

I thought that Aedion was another very interesting character. Starting out you naturally hate him because he acts terrible to Dorian and Chaol. But I love that he proved me wrong. I'm excited to learn more about him! (read more of my thoughts about him in the "spoilers" section)

Manon Blackbeak was another new character that was pretty interesting. I'll admit, during her first few chapters I was bored and irritated. I JUST wanted to read about Celaena, but as I read I became more and more engrossed in her story. I read on Sarah J. Maas's blog that she originally wasn't planning on introducing her in the series until the last book, or the second to last book. She just loved her character so much and couldn't put off writing about her. The witches were scary though, and I honestly believe that some of them don't have hearts, but I think Manon does which makes her so interesting. I'm excited to read more about her and Abraxos. HOWEVER, I'm terrified because they are working for the king. I don't want those witches anywhere near my Chaol, Aedion, Rowan, or Celaena!

That ending. Oh man. I don't know how I can I wait until 2015. Until then, I'll continue to look at Sarah J. Maas's Pinterest board to figure out clues for the rest of the series!


*Spoilers*

About Rowan:
I feel like Rowan is really good for her. They are both warriors that have been through so much pain, yet here they are. Celaena started this book out broken and Rowan was there to help mend her. I'm not saying that they will eventually develop a romantic relationship, but there's definitely something there. Perhaps they will just be the best of friends and will always have each others back. Maybe a step beyond that, like parabatai in the Infernal Devices and the Mortal Instruments series. They are bonded now and can even use each other's magic which is super rare! I believe they said that the blood bond is for life, so one way or another, Rowan and Celaena will always be together.

About Aedion: When you find out he is ACTUALLY a really nice guy. WOW. He's very similar to Celaena. It's not just the eyes and that they share some Fae blood, they both have lost so, so much and are forced to serve the disgusting man that took it all away from them.. I'm definitely upset about the way things ended with him, but I think he will be okay. I can't wait for book four for them to finally be reunited!

About Dorain: Dorain, poor, poor Dorian. WHY does the world hate you? He's struggling with magic and he's trying his hardest to hide it from his dad, but it's getting harder and harder for him. His best friend Chaol is now hardly even talking to him.... but then he meets Sorcha. *sigh* Again, why does the world hate you Dorian?

I still can't believe that they just walked RIGHT into the King's trap there at the end. Poor Dorian. They just killed her so quickly. Now his nasty father knows about his magic and Chaol just leaves him there. I'm afriad for Dorian. I really am.

*End of spoilers*


Do you all love this series just as much as I do?!

Lux Beginnings: Obsidian & Onyx by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Lux Beginnings: Obsidian & Onyx

By: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Published: June 3rd, 2014
Series: Lux #1 & #2
Source: Purchased from B&N

Obsidian:
Starting over sucks.
When we moved to West Virginia right before my senior year, I'd pretty much resigned myself to thick accents, dodgy internet access, and a whole lot of boring... until I spotted my hot neighbor, with his looming height and eerie green eyes. Things were looking up.
And then he opened his mouth.
Daemon is infuriating. Arrogant. Stab-worthy. We do not get along. At all. But when a stranger attacks me and Daemon literally freezes time with a wave of his hand, well, something... unexpected happens.
The hot alien living next door marks me.
You heard me. Alien. Turns out Daemon and his sister have a galaxy of enemies wanting to steal their abilities, and Daemon's touch has me lit up like the Vegas Strip. The only way I'm getting out of this alive is by sticking close to Daemon until my alien mojo fades.
If I don't kill him first, that is.

Onyx:
Being connected to Daemon Black sucks…
Thanks to his alien mojo, Daemon’s determined to prove what he feels for me is more than a product of our bizarro connection. So I’ve sworn him off, even though he’s running more hot than cold these days. But we’ve got bigger problems.
Something worse than the Arum has come to town…
The Department of Defense are here. If they ever find out what Daemon can do and that we're linked, I’m a goner. So is he. And there's this new boy in school who’s got a secret of his own. He knows what’s happened to me and he can help, but to do so, I have to lie to Daemon and stay away from him. Like that's possible. Against all common sense, I'm falling for Daemon. Hard.
But then everything changes…
I’ve seen someone who shouldn’t be alive. And I have to tell Daemon, even though I know he’s never going to stop searching until he gets the truth. What happened to his brother? Who betrayed him? And what does the DOD want from them—from me?
No one is who they seem. And not everyone will survive the lies…

I know it shouldn't matter, but I'm SO happy this series got a cover change. While they won't be getting the prettiest cover award from me any time soon, I definitely think it's loads better!

Now, you may have already noticed that I've already read Obsidian (and reviewed it) back in December of 2013. I've also already read (and reviewed) Onyx that month too. I had planned on continuing the series... but alas, here we are almost 8 months later and I still haven't. So when I went to the store last week and saw the SPARKLY new covers, I knew I had to buy the new bind ups and continue on! I looked it up and was surprised to find that the fifth book, Opposition, comes out on August 5th! It was basically fate for me to buy them and continue, just in time to read the newest one!

What I didn't have planned was to go ahead and open up Lux: Beginnings and to start rereading Obsidian and Onyx instead of you continuing on to Opal.. Some of you that have followed me for over a year have probably heard me talk about my love for rereading books. It's not for everyone, and some think it's boring to reread books, but I love picking up books that I loved reading and experiencing it again and again.

In this case, my rating of these two books went  from 4 stars to 5 stars. I was extremely critical the first time reading these two books and it's almost like I didn't WANT to give it 5 stars because I felt like it was too similar to Twilight. It's like I was defending Twilight's honor or something. (And they aren't really even that similar!)

Now, however, I read the book without anything else on my mind and I just read it for what it was. These books are super fun to read. I read all 800 pages within just three days! Time flys by and I just loved them! I definitely recommend them to any paranormal fans out there!

I'm looking forward to opening up Lux: Consequences and diving into Opal and Origin for the first time!

Fracture Me by Tahereh Mafi

Fracture Me

by Tahereh Mafi

Pub Date: December 17th, 2013

Series: Shatter Me #2.5

In this electrifying sixty-page companion novella to the New York Timesbestselling Shatter Me series, discover the fate of the Omega Point rebels as they go up against The Reestablishment. Set during and soon after the final moments of Unravel Me, Fracture Me is told from Adam's perspective.

As Omega Point prepares to launch an all-out assault on The Reestablishment soldiers stationed in Sector 45, Adam's focus couldn't be further from the upcoming battle. He's reeling from his breakup with Juliette, scared for his best friend's life, and as concerned as ever for his brother James's safety. And just as Adam begins to wonder if this life is really for him, the alarms sound. It's time for war.

On the battlefield, it seems like the odds are in their favor—but taking down Warner, Adam's newly discovered half brother, won't be that easy. The Reestablishment can't tolerate a rebellion, and they'll do anything to crush the resistance . . . including killing everyone Adam has ever cared about.

Fracture Me sets the stage for Ignite Me, the explosive finale in Tahereh Mafi's epic dystopian series. It's a novella not to be missed by fans who crave action-packed stories with tantalizing romance like Divergent by Veronica Roth, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, and Legend by Marie Lu.

This was just okay. Unfortunately it was a little boring because the majority of this novella takes place through Adam's eyes during the last few chapters of Unravel Me. I'm glad that I read it because of something important (and terrible) that happens at the end, but so far this was my least favorite of the series. Excited to start Ignite Me though!

On a side note, I love this cover! This should have been the cover of Unite Me instead of Destroy Me in my opinion!

Unravel Me by Tahereh Mafi

Unravel Me

by Tahereh Mafi

Pub Date: February 5th, 2013

Series: Shatter Me #2

tick
tick
tick
tick
tick
it's almost
time for war.
Juliette has escaped to Omega Point. It is a place for people like her—people with gifts—and it is also the headquarters of the rebel resistance.
She's finally free from The Reestablishment, free from their plan to use her as a weapon, and free to love Adam. But Juliette will never be free from her lethal touch.
Or from Warner, who wants Juliette more than she ever thought possible.
In this exhilarating sequel to Shatter Me, Juliette has to make life-changing decisions between what she wants and what she thinks is right. Decisions that might involve choosing between her heart—and Adam's life.

This was an amazing sequel and if you read Shatter Me, I highly recommend that you continue on to read this book because I liked it even more! Don't forget to read the novella, Destroy Me, first though!

Discussion (Spoilers):
Whew. What a book. So this series has been getting better and better! I liked that Juliette was in a new location and was surrounded by other people with special abilities. I think that that was one of the biggest reasons why I loved this book so much. Many of you know my fascination with any type of story involving superpowers so this was perfect for me. 

This book really reminded me of The Host by Stephenie Meyer (which I love, oh so much by the way) just minus the super powers. A bunch of rebels living underground that are terrified of the strange girl in their midst. PLUS there's a love triangle, don't forget the love triangle. Also one of the love interests has a sweet little brother that becomes friends with our main character? They all go on raids to steal food and other necessary supplies? Come on, tell me you didn't see that? 

I love that Juliette learns to control her powers and is basically like Hulk now crushing bricks in her fist. I'm so excited that Adam and Warner also have powers, although Adam's was a little sad to learn about.. Poor Juliette thought that she had finally found another human being that understood her and could finally give her a hug, only to find out that she is secretly wearing him down, and will some day probably kill him. Wow. 
But thennnn, we learn about Warner's gift. Juliette literally gives him strength and helps him when she touches him.. which is kind of a miracle, since she normally just destroys anything that she touches...

I know that a lot of you are going to ask, so.. I'm team Warner. I wasn't too crazy about either relationship at first, but I've been leaning more and more towards Warner. Now after reading both Destroy Me and Unravel Me, I'm sold.

I would like to point out something that does make me laugh a little, however. Juliette sure doesn't waste any time, huh? I try to put myself in her position though.. Hot Adam and hot Warner were the first two people to ever touch her (without almost dying) so I think I would probably react the same way that she did. It would all be pretty overwhelming I'm sure...

I'm planning on starting Fracture me right now, then I'll be picking up Ignite Me! So excited to continue!

Destroy Me by Tahereh Mafi

Destroy Me 

by Tahereh Mafi

Pub Date: October 2nd, 2012

Series: Shatter Me #1.5

Perfect for the fans of Shatter Me who are desperately awaiting the release of Unravel Me, this novella-length digital original will bridge the gap between these two novels from the perspective of the villain we all love to hate, Warner, the ruthless leader of Sector 45.

In Tahereh Mafi’s Shatter Me, Juliette escaped from The Reestablishment by seducing Warner—and then putting a bullet in his shoulder. But as she’ll learn in Destroy Me, Warner is not that easy to get rid of. . .

Back at the base and recovering from his near-fatal wound, Warner must do everything in his power to keep his soldiers in check and suppress any mention of a rebellion in the sector. Still as obsessed with Juliette as ever, his first priority is to find her, bring her back, and dispose of Adam and Kenji, the two traitors who helped her escape. But when Warner’s father, The Supreme Commander of The Reestablishment, arrives to correct his son’s mistakes, it’s clear that he has much different plans for Juliette. Plans Warner simply cannot allow.

Set after Shatter Me and before its forthcoming sequel, Unravel Me,Destroy Me is a novella told from the perspective of Warner, the ruthless leader of Sector 45.

This is probably the first time I've ever rated a novella higher than it's prequel. While I liked Shatter Me, I felt like something was missing or off. Well I found that while reading Destroy Me. 

While I can't say that I fully understand Warner, I now feel like I've made a few more steps to finally being on the road too. While reading Shatter Me I found myself confused by a lot of his actions... He basically saves a girl from a prison to put her in.. another prison? It's a more lavish prison, but still a prison all the same. 

I never felt like I was on the same page as Warner, and at many points of Shatter Me I wondered if maybe he was a little off his rocker. He loves Juliette? What?

After reading this novella, however, I'm so, so excited to continue on and read Unravel Me. I have a feeling this story is going to get a lot more interesting.

Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

Shatter Me
by Tahereh Mafi
Pub Date: October 2nd, 2012
Series: Shatter Me #1
Source: Purchased

Juliette hasn’t touched anyone in exactly 264 days.

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

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

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

Although I didn't absolutely love this book, I did really enjoy it. I found Tahereh Mafi's writing style to be so poetic. The first few pages were a little strange reading the text that had been marked out, but I got used to it really quickly, and eventually really started to like it. 

I like that the book was told through Juliette's perspective, almost as if you are reading the story that she has written down in her little book with her broken pen. It's like she writes quickly without thinking things through, which is why she marks through a lot.

I knew going into this book that it was going to be heavy on the romance, so I made sure to wait to start this trilogy when I was in the mood for a book like that. I didn't mind that aspect, however, I found it to be a little rushed. It's hard to explain.. I can kind of understand why Juliette would fall for someone that quickly, but it's harder for me to understand the reasons why the other person did so quickly. It's hard for me to explain, but I'll try and do a better job when I post my video review/discussion (which will be added to the end of this post once it's uploaded).

I'm excited to start the novella, Destroy Me, and then the second book!

City of Heavenly Fire by Cassandra Clare

City of Heavenly Fire
By Cassandra Clare
Pub Date: May 27th, 2014
Series: Mortal Instruments Series #6

In this dazzling and long-awaited conclusion to the acclaimed Mortal Instruments series, Clary and her friends fight the greatest evil they have ever faced: Clary's own brother.

Sebastian Morgenstern is on the move, systematically turning Shadowhunter against Shadowhunter. Bearing the Infernal Cup, he transforms Shadowhunters into creatures out of nightmare, tearing apart families and lovers as the ranks of his Endarkened army swell.

The embattled Shadowhunters withdraw to Idris - but not even the famed demon towers of Alicante can keep Sebastian at bay. And with the Nephilim trapped in Idris, who will guard the world against demons?

When one of the greatest betrayals the Nephilim have ever known is revealed, Clary, Jace, Isabelle, Simon, and Alec must flee - even if their journey takes them deep into the demon realms, where no Shadowhunter has set foot before, and from which no human being has ever returned...

Love will be sacrificed and lives lost in the terrible battle for the fate of the word in the thrilling final installment of the classic urban fantasy series The Mortal Instruments!

Finally! The last book! I'm not really sad about it being over, however, because I know that Cassandra Clare plans on writing two more trilogies in the Shadowhunter world! To find out more information about her upcoming books, check out her blog!

I was also involved in a liveshow discussion with Christine from PolandBananasBOOKS, Regan from PeruseProject, and Kat from Katytastic! In that liveshow we discussed all of our favorite parts, quotes, etc and we even answered your guy's questions! (Video is after this review!)

I'm so happy with how this series ended overall. I loved how Cassandra Clare weaved in so much TMI information! I couldn't help but squeal! The chapters with the TMI characters were honestly my favorite parts of the book! This is most likely because I love The Infernal Devices trilogy so, so much!

Since You've Been Gone by Morgan Matson

Since You've Been Gone
by Morgan Matson
Pub Date: May 6th, 2014

The Pre-Sloane Emily didn't go to parties, she barely talked to guys, she didn't do anything crazy. Enter Sloane, social tornado and the best kind of best friend—the one who yanks you out of your shell.But right before what should have been an epic summer, Sloane just... disappears. No note. No calls. No texts. No Sloane. There’s just a random to-do list. On it, thirteen Sloane-selected-definitely-bizarre-tasks that Emily would never try... unless they could lead back to her best friend. Apple Picking at Night? Ok, easy enough.Dance until Dawn? Sure. Why not? Kiss a Stranger? Wait... what?

Getting through Sloane’s list would mean a lot of firsts. But Emily has this whole unexpected summer ahead of her, and the help of Frank Porter (totally unexpected) to check things off. Who knows what she’ll find?

Go Skinny Dipping? Um...

This book just made my favorites list for 2014. I absolutely loved all of the characters, the plot, the setting, everything about this book. I'm going to try my best to explain why, but sometimes it's hard for me to explain why I love a book so dearly.

It was so fantastic to get to grow with Emily through her unexpected summer. I found myself relating to her, and I was so proud of her when she was able to check off yet another item on her list. I loved reading about her conquering her fears while learning how to be her own person. It's fine to have a best friend, but you can't always hide behind them. I loved all of the messages in this book, one of them being to live your life to the fullest and to never let yourself stand in someone else's constant shadow. 

I adored reading about Emily's relationship with Frank and her other new friends. There were so many hilarious chapters like when Emily is trying to "Hug a Jamie" or "Go Skinny-Dipping." And of course there was many, many chapters that made me just want to squeal from all of the cuteness. I loved, loved, LOVED Frank and I thought that the running, and mixed playlists, and all of the Beatles talk, was just the best.

This is one of those books that really touches you and makes you reflect on your own life. It makes you think about saying yes to new things and getting out of your comfort zone. I felt like there were so many worthwhile lessons throughout this book that I really connected with!

I own two other books by Morgan Matson, and now I can't wait to read them!
If you love contemporary books, definitely pick this one up! This was the perfect summer read!

Let me know in the comments what your thoughts on the book was as well!

Everything Leads to You by Nina LaCour

Everything Leads to You
By Nina LaCour
Pub Date: May 15th, 2014
Source: Publisher

A love letter to the craft and romance of film and fate in front of—and behind—the camera from the award-winning author of Hold Still.

A wunderkind young set designer, Emi has already started to find her way in the competitive Hollywood film world.

Emi is a film buff and a true romantic, but her real-life relationships are a mess. She has desperately gone back to the same girl too many times to mention. But then a mysterious letter from a silver screen legend leads Emi to Ava. Ava is unlike anyone Emi has ever met. She has a tumultuous, not-so-glamorous past, and lives an unconventional life. She’s enigmatic…. She’s beautiful. And she is about to expand Emi’s understanding of family, acceptance, and true romance.

I really enjoyed this book. This was my first book by Nina LaCour and I loved her style and the tone overall. The only problem I had was I felt like it was just a touch slow in the middle, but it picked up and I really enjoyed it!

I loved the plot surrounding film-making and of course the mystery they encountered. I really enjoyed all of the characters in this book, especially the mysterious Ava. These characters were flawed, yet seemed so real to me and I love reading about characters like that.

I appreciated that the main character was open about her sexual orientation and instead of this being a coming out story, Nina LaCour just made it a part of who Emi was. I've read stories where the secondary characters were gay, but not the main character so this was a first for me. I loved that our main character wasn't struggling with how she felt, but accepted it. I'll admit I was frustrated with Emi in the beginning because of her poor relationship choices (just learn how to walk away girl! she doesn't love you!) but I grew to love her.

Honestly, while reading this book, it almost felt like I was becoming friends with Ava, Charlotte, Emi, and Jamal. You see them for who they are, their flaws included, but despite it all you grow to love them all the same. I finished this book feeling happy and it gave me closure (which we all know I love.)

I like that this book encourages you to not wait, but to act. You never know how much time you'll have.

The Secret Hum of a Daisy by Tracy Holczer

The Secret Hum of a Daisy
by Tracy Holczer
Pub Date: May 1st, 2014
Source: Publisher

Twelve-year-old Grace and her mother have always been their own family, traveling from place to place like gypsies. But Grace wants to finally have a home all their own. Just when she thinks she's found it her mother says it's time to move again. Grace summons the courage to tell her mother how she really feels and will always regret that her last words to her were angry ones.

After her mother's sudden death, Grace is forced to live with a grandmother she's never met. She can't imagine her mother would want her to stay with this stranger.

Then Grace finds clues in a mysterious treasure hunt, just like the ones her mother used to send her on. Maybe it is her mother, showing her the way to her true home.

Lyrical, poignant and fresh, The Secret Hum of a Daisy is a beautifully told middle grade tale with a great deal of heart. - Goodreads

This book was so endearing. This is labeled as a middle grade novel probably because the main character is twelve, but she definitely didn't act that young. I couldn't imagine being only twelve and being an orphan (since her dad died before she was born.) Then, she was ripped from her current home and into the home of a grandma that she had never met. This was the same grandma that had forced her own mother out of the door when she was seventeen and pregnant. I'm sure I would have reacted very similarly to twelve year old Grace.

I really enjoyed the parts that involved Beauty and Daisy, and Joe and Max. I also really liked learning more about Grace's grandma and I loved seeing Grace's opinion of her change. This book was full of very interesting characters.

 I really enjoyed reading about Grace and her love of writing and art. I felt myself reaching out to her and hoping that she would find the home she deserved. I found the writing beautiful and this book definitely brought a few tears to my eyes. I really enjoyed the ending and felt a lot of closure (which I always love.)

I definitely recommend this touching book!

Burn for Burn by Jenny Han and Siobhan Vivian

Burn for Burn
By Jenny Han and Siobhan Vivan
Pub Date: September 2012
Series: Burn for Burn #1

Postcard-perfect Jar Island is the kind of place where nobody locks their doors at night, where parents can sleep easy, knowing their daughters are tucked away safe and sound in their beds.

But bad things can happen, even to good girls . . . and sometimes, the only way to make things right is to do something wrong.

Lillia used to trust boys, but not anymore. Not after what happened this summer. And she’ll do whatever it takes to protect her little sister from the same fate.

Kat is over the rumors, the insults, the cruel jokes made at her expense. It all goes back to one person--her ex-best friend. Someone needs to teach her a lesson, and, with Lillia and Mary behind her, Kat feels up to the task.

Four years ago, Mary left Jar Island because of a boy. But she’s not the same girl anymore. Now that she’s got friends who have her back, he's going to be in big trouble.

Three very different girls who come together to make things right. Will they go too far?

I'm not really sure how to explain my feelings about this book.

There were a lot of aspects that I liked, but some that I didn't really like at all.

I really like Jenny Han's writing style and that really came through..but.. I don't know. I liked this book (obviously I gave it a 4 star rating, but I'm already doubting myself thinking it may be closer to 3.5 stars?

I enjoyed that these girls are trying to get their revenge because these characters definitely had it coming to them. I didn't exactly end this book feeling as good about it as I did during the first half though, ya know? Something felt like it was missing. I didn't really like the random paranormal thing that happened. It just seemed very out of place. I don't know. I hate that it ended on a cliff hanger, but I know there's going to be at least two other books after this one so I'm not really worried about that.

This book was very interesting because it read like a fairly light contemporary, but it touched on some pretty deep issues. Suicide, bullying, drug use, date rape, etc.

I would like to continue on with the series and see how it goes, but this definitely isn't a new favorite nor is it as good as the last book I read by Jenny Han, To All the Boys I've Loved Before. Now THAT was an amazing book!

If I Stay by Gayle Forman

If I Stay

By Gayle Forman
Pub Date: April 2009
Series: If I Stay #1
Source: Purchased

Just listen, Adam says with a voice that sounds like shrapnel.
I open my eyes wide now.

I sit up as much as I can.

And I listen.

Stay, he says.

Choices. Seventeen-year-old Mia is faced with some tough ones: Stay true to her first love—music—even if it means losing her boyfriend and leaving her family and friends behind?

Then one February morning Mia goes for a drive with her family, and in an instant, everything changes. Suddenly, all the choices are gone, except one. And it's the only one that matters.

If I Stay is a heartachingly beautiful book about the power of love, the true meaning of family, and the choices we all make.

This was a really good book. It's pretty simple.

I admit that I had some trouble with the format of the book. The story was constantly jumping around and it was hard to keep track of at times. However, one thing that I really enjoyed (but it also made me cry my eyes out at times) was how Mia would describe an event in her past, usually it was centered around a person, and then Mia would counter it by jumping to the present and then talking about that person at that moment. She did that with Adam, her mom and Dad, her best friend... but when she was talking about how she would kiss Teddy's scrapes and how she was the first thing that he ever saw coming into this world.. and then Mia flashed to where Teddy was currently in the story, I just lost it.

One aspect I really loved in this story was the music. I love that there was so many different kinds introduced in this book. I loved that it brought people together and drove people apart as well.

I would have loved to learn even more about Mia and I think that this book could have been a lot longer!

I'm not sure when I will read the second book in the series, Where She Went, because the synopsis sounds a little upsetting to me. I definitely didn't think the story would take that turn. It actually has better ratings than this book, however, so I will definitely pick it up eventually. I think I just need a little break first. This book was pretty emotional.

Rebel Belle by Rachel Hawkins

Rebel Belle
By Rachel Hawkins
Pub Date: April 8th, 2014
Series: Rebel Belle #1
Source: Publisher

Harper Price, peerless Southern belle, was born ready for a Homecoming tiara. But after a strange run-in at the dance imbues her with incredible abilities, Harper's destiny takes a turn for the seriously weird. She becomes a Paladin, one of an ancient line of guardians with agility, super strength and lethal fighting instincts.

Just when life can't get any more disastrously crazy, Harper finds out who she's charged to protect: David Stark, school reporter, subject of a mysterious prophecy and possibly Harper's least favorite person. But things get complicated when Harper starts falling for him--and discovers that David's own fate could very well be to destroy Earth.

With snappy banter, cotillion dresses, non-stop action and a touch of magic, this new young adult series from bestseller Rachel Hawkins is going to make y'all beg for more.

I really enjoyed reading this book! I felt like the paranormal elements balanced really well with the light hearted theme that flowed through the plot so well. I liked that it read like a contemporary novel! I found myself really liking the main character Harper, as well as the setting! I was interested in this book the entire time, and definitely enjoyed all of the little surprises Rachel Hawkins threw in towards the end!

I wish that we could have found out a bit more about some of the history with the Paladins, Oracles, etc. I couldn't help but feeling like it was a tad too convenient that our characters just magically already knew what was happening to them and were given all of these abilities at once. They would go from a completely normal human being, to this kick-ass super hero in a second. It took me a little getting used to..

I enjoyed Harper's character and how she was so Hermione-like at times. David was such a great character and I loved the romance in this book. This book had just enough pretty dresses mixed with fighting. Apparently this is one of my new favorite things in books (see Throne of Glass). I'm really looking forward to continuing on with this series!