How I Live Now, by Meg Rosoff

How I Live Now,  by Meg Rosoff

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Contemporary, War and Violence, Dystopian

Other Meg Rosoff Books

Rating: 4.5/5 stars










Goodreads Summary: "Fifteen-year-old New Yorker Daisy is sent to live in the English countryside with cousins she’s never even met. When England is attacked and occupied by an unnamed enemy, the cousins find themselves on their own. Power fails, system fail. As they grow more isolated, the farm becomes a kind of Eden, with no rules. Until the war arrives in their midst.

 Daisy’s is a war story, a survival story, a love story—all told in the voice of a subversive and witty teenager. This book crackles with anxiety and with lust. It’s a stunning and unforgettable first novel that captures the essence of the age of terrorism: how we live now."

Review:

This was me during and after reading the book. It was perfection.

• When I read the summary of the book, I was ultimately sucked in, it sounded so good, and I never have really read any books about futuristic wars. Having this to be taken place in the near future was amazing and it's different than anything else I've read.
• I adored this book, you just don't understand. Meg Rosoff is an unstoppable author, her words and thoughts are just stunning, I could be in her mind all day.
• This was so fast-paced, one moment you were here, the next there. I never got bored and it was perfect.
• Daisy was a fantastic character. She was independent and confident, event though she had some bad thoughts going on in her mind at the time. I loved her narration, and love for her cousins.
• Piper was adorable, I could eat her up. I cried whenever she cried and it just hurt to see a little girl like her suffering and without a mother at the time. 
• The only thing that both the book and the movie didn't mention was- who Eddie was. I mean, was it just me that thought that he was Daisy's cousin? I was confused, so that's why the .5 of the rating was missing.
• Overall, I am without words for this book. It's definitely one of my favourites, and will be forever. I cried, I laughed, I went through so many different feelings when reading this book.

           I already had purchased the movie before I even got the book, but never watched it, so right after reading the book, it wasn't too late, so I put the movie on and watched it with my also emotional mom. We sat there crying, and feeling all of the emotions that the characters were feeling. Some things were different I may say, *SPOILER ALERT* the movie didn't talk about how long the war lasted, or how Daisy ended up in the hospital in New York, or how her Aunt Penn died. Eddie never got hurt either in the book. Things were different, but I adored both the movie and the book so dearly. I will read it and watch it over and over again.

Trapped, by Michael Northrop

Trapped, by Michael Northrop

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Contemporary

Other Michael Northrop Books

Rating: 3/5 stars

First Line: "We were the last seven kids waiting around to get picked up from Tattawa Regional High School."









Goodreads Summary: "The day the blizzard started, no one knew that it was going to keep snowing for a week. That for those in its path, it would become not just a matter of keeping warm, but of staying alive. . . .

Scotty and his friends Pete and Jason are among the last seven kids at their high school waiting to get picked up that day, and they soon realize that no one is coming for them. Still, it doesn't seem so bad to spend the night at school, especially when distractingly hot Krista and Julie are sleeping just down the hall. But then the power goes out, then the heat. The pipes freeze, and the roof shudders. As the days add up, the snow piles higher, and the empty halls grow colder and darker, the mounting pressure forces a devastating decision. . . "

Review:

I wish that I could speak to books,  because this is so true, I'm heartbroken. :(

•  Trapped sounded like the perfect winter-holiday book to read over the break, and when I read the summary, I realized that I really wanted it. 
• In the beginning, I really enjoyed it, the characters were very chill and were calm and I liked all of their personalities.
• I expected the whole story to be a little more detailed, and I would've liked it if the whole survival thing would've been more realistic, it was a little cheesy in my opinion.
• Afterwards, I really got bored with this, even though the book was really short. It wasn't fast-paced at all and I thought that I'd really like it. I know that I'll never ever pick it up again, it got me upset.

Winter's Bone, by Daniel Woodrell

Winter's Bone, by Daniel Woodrell

Genre: Young Adult Fiction

Other Daniel Woodrell Books

Rating: 4/5 stars

First Line: "Ree Dolly stood at break of day on her cold front steps and smelled coming flurries and saw meat."








Goodreads Summary: "Ree Dolly's father has skipped bail on charges that he ran a crystal meth lab, and the Dollys will lose their house if he doesn't show up for his next court date. With two young brothers depending on her, 16-year-old Ree knows she has to bring her father back, dead or alive. Living in the harsh poverty of the Ozarks, Ree learns quickly that asking questions of the rough Dolly clan can be a fatal mistake. But, as an unsettling revelation lurks, Ree discovers unforeseen depths in herself and in a family network that protects its own at any cost."


Review:

• I was looking through the movies that Jennifer Lawrence has acted in, and when I saw this one, I looked at the movie reviews and I found out that it first was a book, so I knew I wanted it. If JLaw played in it, it must have been good, right?
• To me, it really was one of those country novels, and the way that the Dolly family had to live was shocking and kind of cruel.
• Ree was an okay character, even though she did so much for her brothers, she acted so bitchy and I didn't like her.
• The book was very short, and I liked it that way. In 193 pages, it did get boring sometimes, but the author did write the story well.
• Overall, I thought it was okay. I recommend it if you want an absurd read, but it definitely wasn't one of my favourites.

Attachments, by Rainbow Rowell

Attachments, by Rainbow Rowell

Genre: Adult Fiction, Chick-Lit

Other Rainbow Rowell Books

Rating: 4/5 stars










Goodreads Summary: '"Hi, I'm the guy who reads your e-mail, and also, I love you . . . "

Beth Fremont and Jennifer Scribner-Snyder know that somebody is monitoring their work e-mail. (Everybody in the newsroom knows. It's company policy.) But they can't quite bring themselves to take it seriously. They go on sending each other endless and endlessly hilarious e-mails, discussing every aspect of their personal lives.

Meanwhile, Lincoln O'Neill can't believe this is his job now- reading other people's e-mail. When he applied to be "internet security officer," he pictured himself building firewalls and crushing hackers- not writing up a report every time a sports reporter forwards a dirty joke.

When Lincoln comes across Beth's and Jennifer's messages, he knows he should turn them in. But he can't help being entertained-and captivated-by their stories.

By the time Lincoln realizes he's falling for Beth, it's way too late to introduce himself.

What would he say . . . ?"

                        When I read this book, I felt this. It was gorgeous. <3

Review:

• If you've read any of my other Rainbow Rowell reviews, you'll know that I'm obsessed. Her books are like drugs. You begin to see life differently and start fangirling, and you eventually become obsessed, not that it's a bad thing.
• I was so happy to receive this over Christmas, I wanted it for the longest time but it wasn't available anywhere.
• I knew that this was her adult book, but the summary sounded adorable, so why not pick it up?
• This was hilariously fun. I never wanted to put it down.
• I felt that the story was so real, and so were the characters and their problems. I felt that Lincoln was my soul mate- we were meant to be, both socially awkward. "LOVE IS IN THE AIR, BABY!"
• Rainbow Rowell is one of my favourite contemporary authors, if I met her, I'd give her a big hug and thank her for the books that make my day.

Sweethearts, by Sara Zarr

Sweethearts, by Sara Zarr

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Contemporary, Chick-Lit

Other Sara Zarr Books

Rating: 4/5 stars











Goodreads Summary: "As children, Jennifer Harris and Cameron Quick were both social outcasts. They were also one another's only friend. So when Cameron disappears without warning, Jennifer thinks she's lost the only person who will ever understand her. Now in high school, Jennifer has been transformed. Known as Jenna, she's popular, happy, and dating, everything "Jennifer" couldn't be---but she still can't shake the memory of her long-lost friend. 

When Cameron suddenly reappears, they are both confronted with memories of their shared past and the drastically different paths their lives have taken.

From the National Book Award nominated author of Story of a Girl, Sweethearts is a story about the power of memory, the bond of friendship, and the quiet resilience of our childhood hearts."

Review:

• I really liked Sara Zarr's Once Was Lost, and was so excited when I got this one- knowing that it would be just as good, or even better.
• I loved the whole story that Jenna had before her change, the trust that she had in Cameron was unstoppable, and it definitely created something for readers- something that we cannot even explain, it's too gorgeous.
• Jenna was a good character- not the best, but I liked her story. She seemed a little too pissed off at life, and I didn't really like that, but she was okay.
• Ethan was adorable and I had a soft side to him, he never did anything to Jenna, Jenna just got too distracted with her long-lost love, that's all. I definitely see him with Steph.
• Cameron was okay, he had that whole bad boy thing going on, and was willing to take risks.

What's Left of Me, by Kat Zhang

What's Left of Me (The Hybrid Chronicles #1), by Kat Zhang

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Science-Fiction, Dystopian

Other Hybrid Chronicles Books

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Goodreads Summary: "I should not exist. But I do.

Eva and Addie started out the same way as everyone else—two souls woven together in one body, taking turns controlling their movements as they learned how to walk, how to sing, how to dance. But as they grew, so did the worried whispers. Why aren’t they settling? Why isn’t one of them fading? The doctors ran tests, the neighbours shied away, and their parents begged for more time. Finally Addie was pronounced healthy and Eva was declared gone. Except, she wasn’t . . .

For the past three years, Eva has clung to the remnants of her life. Only Addie knows she’s still there, trapped inside their body. Then one day, they discover there may be a way for Eva to move again. The risks are unimaginable-hybrids are considered a threat to society, so if they are caught, Addie and Eva will be locked away with the others. And yet . . . for a chance to smile, to twirl, to speak, Eva will do anything."

Review:

• I never thought that this book would be as good as it was. I was so surprised because I thought that it would be like the other dystopian/science-fiction books I've read. It did remind me of The Program, by Suzanne Young and The Host, by Stephenie Meyer in a few ways.
• I loved the idea/concept of the novel, how did Kat Zhang think of this, it is definitely a concept I've never read about. 
• I loved Addie/Eva. They were very independent  and even though in the beginning they sort of had a competition on who would control the movements and such, I realized that by the end they cared about each other and loved each other and didn't want to lose each other, they were one whole altogether. I did feel that Eva probably had more control then Addie, because Addie always took Eva's advice and did what she said. Eva was the brain of things, and Addie just followed.
• In the beginning, I disliked Hally/Lissa. She became too overly attached at times, but I never would think that she would become Eva/Addie's friend by the end. She did make a point/difference in the book, and Addie/Eva needed her, as well as Devon/Ryan.
• Overall, I loved this book and cannot wait for the sequel and the third book. Captivating and has made me obsessed!

The Forsaken, by Lisa M. Stasse

The Forsaken (The Forsaken #1), by Lisa M. Stasse

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Dystopian, Science-Fiction

Other Forsaken Books

Rating: 3/5 stars

First Line: "At first I think the hammering sound is the noise of waves crashing down on white sand."







 Goodreads Summary: "As an obedient orphan of the U.N.A. (the super-country that was once Mexico, the U.S., and Canada), Alenna learned at an early age to blend in and be quiet—having your parents taken by the police will do that to a girl. But Alenna can’t help but stand out when she fails a test that all sixteen-year-olds have to take: The test says she has a high capacity for brutal violence, and so she is sent to The Wheel, an island where all would-be criminals end up.

The life expectancy of prisoners on The Wheel is just two years, but with dirty, violent, and chaotic conditions, the time seems a lot longer as Alenna is forced to deal with civil wars for land ownership and machines that snatch kids out of their makeshift homes. Desperate, she and the other prisoners concoct a potentially fatal plan to flee the island. Survival may seem impossible, but Alenna is determined to achieve it anyway."

 Review:

• The beginning was so good, I thought that it would become the next Divergent or Hunger Games. Once Alenna was sent to The Wheel, I began to get so bored and I really didn't like it.
• Alenna began to believe that she was the best and could handle anything. I hate characters like that. 
• I didn't like any of the other extra characters. I was upset with the outcome, really.

A Corner of White, by Jaclyn Moriarty

A Corner of White (The Colors of Madeleine #1), by Jaclyn Moriarty

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Fantasy in Reality

Other Colors of Madeleine Books

Rating: 2/5 stars

First Line: ...









 Goodreads Summary:

 "The first in a rousing, funny, genre-busting trilogy from bestseller Jaclyn Moriarty!

This is a tale of missing persons. Madeleine and her mother have run away from their former life, under mysterious circumstances, and settled in a rainy corner of Cambridge (in our world).

Elliot, on the other hand, is in search of his father, who disappeared on the night his uncle was found dead. The talk in the town of Bonfire (in the Kingdom of Cello) is that Elliot's dad may have killed his brother and run away with the Physics teacher. But Elliot refuses to believe it. And he is determined to find both his dad and the truth.

As Madeleine and Elliot move closer to unraveling their mysteries, they begin to exchange messages across worlds -- through an accidental gap that hasn't appeared in centuries. But even greater mysteries are unfolding on both sides of the gap: dangerous weather phenomena called "color storms;" a strange fascination with Isaac Newton; the myth of the "Butterfly Child," whose appearance could end the droughts of Cello; and some unexpected kisses..."

  

  Review:

• I thought this would be really good, the cover looked adorable and the summary was so captivating.
• It really didn't impress me. :/ I don't know what was the point of it, it sounded like foolish games, in the beginning, I thought that it would be similar to Between the Lines, but it really was much different and worse, I'm sorry to say.
• I'm speechless and shocked, I wanted it to be good.

Ashes, Ashes, by Jo Treggiari

Ashes, Ashes (Ashes, Ashes #1), by Jo Treggiari

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Dystopian, Science-Fiction

Other Ashes, Ashes Books

Rating: 4/5 stars

Source: Scholastic Orders

First Line: ...







 Goodreads Summary: "A thrilling tale of adventure, romance, and one girl's unyielding courage through the darkest of nightmares.

Epidemics, floods, droughts--for sixteen-year-old Lucy, the end of the world came and went, taking 99% of the population with it. As the weather continues to rage out of control, and Sweepers clean the streets of plague victims, Lucy survives alone in the wilds of Central Park. But when she's rescued from a pack of hunting dogs by a mysterious boy named Aidan, she reluctantly realizes she can't continue on her own. She joins his band of survivors, yet, a new danger awaits her: the Sweepers are looking for her. There's something special about Lucy, and they will stop at nothing to have her."

  Review: 

• This reminded me of... Empty by Suzanne Weyn. They both were that dystopian/end of the world type of books and I adore those. Every author has a different imagination of what would happen.
• I loved Lucy as a character, she was very independent, and wasn't scared of anything at all. Aiden was kind of weird... and not as attractive as I hoped he'd become. I thought that the story would be better without him and that's probably why I didn't like the books as much as I hoped I would.
• I saw this as a post-apocalyptic novel that was really good from the beginning to the middle, it got a little boring later on.
• Overall, it's recommendable, especially for those who love dystopian books like me.

  

Scorched, by Mari Mancusi

Scorched (Scorched #1), by Mari Mancusi

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Dragons, Fantasy, Love-Triangles

Other Scorched Books

Rating: 4/5 stars

Source: Bookstore

First Line: too lazy to go check, will update.







 Goodreads Summary:

Trinity

Don’t leave me here... It starts with a whisper. At first Trinity thinks she’s going crazy. It wouldn’t be a big surprise—her grandpa firmly believes there’s a genuine dragon egg in their dusty little West Texas town. But this voice is real, and it’s begging for her protection. Even if no one else can hear it...

Connor

He’s come from a future scorched by dragonfire. His mission: Find the girl. Destroy the egg. Save the world.

Caleb

He’s everything his twin brother Connor hates: cocky, undisciplined, and obsessed with saving dragons. 

Trinity has no idea which brother to believe. All she has to go by is the voice in her head—a dragon that won’t be tamed.

Review:

• I thought that this would be like Firelight, by Sophie Jordan. But it was much different from other novels, the girl finally doesn't have to fall in love with a dragon. She falls in love with dragon fighters/slayers as I like to call them.
• The fighting here was fantastic and was worth reading for.
• I didn't like Connor too much, he was stuck up and thought that he was the best in the world.
• Caleb was cute and I liked his affection for Trinity.
• Overall it was fun and riveting, I can't wait for the sequel!

Confessions of a Hater, by Caprice Crane

Confessions of a Hater, by Caprice Crane

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Chick-Lit, Contemporary

Other Caprice Crane Books

Rating: 4/5 stars

Source: Bookstore

First Line: "High school was pretty much like this huge party I wasn't actually invited to, but I still had to show up to every day."







   Goodreads Summary: "Mean girls are always the haters - Right?

Hailey Harper has always felt invisible. Now her dad has a new job and the family is moving to Hollywood. Just what Hailey needs: starting a new high school.

As she's packing, Hailey finds a journal that belonged to her older sister, Noel, who is away at college. Called "How to Be a Hater," it's full of info Hailey can really use. Has Hailey found the Bible of Coolness? Will it help her reinvent herself at her new school? Will her crush notice her? Will she and the other Invisibles dethrone the popular mean girls? After all, they deserve it. Don't they?

Caprice Crane's funny--and deeply felt--observations about high school, bullies, popularity, friendship, and romance will leave teens thinking...and talking."

      Review:

• This book is the perfect 'going into high school' book
• It taught me a lot actually and Noel's diary gave out good tips.
• It was hilarious and I loved Hailey's personality traits. She was a fantastic character who always made the right choices, like choosing the right friends.
• It reminded me of Mean Girls, except with less drama and was more about the message.
• I liked the fact that there were many steps in life here- first kiss, pregnancy etc.
• I found this through Seventeen Magazine a while ago, but have only now picked it up at the store, I felt that it was the right time.
• Gorgeous and live-threatening, in a good way. :)

The Testing, by Joelle Charbonneau

The Testing (The Testing #1), by Joelle Charbonneau

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Dystopian, Science-Fiction

Other Testing Books

Rating: 3/5 stars

Source: Bookstore

First Line: "Graduation Day."







Goodreads Summary: "Keep your friends close and your enemies closer. Isn’t that what they say? But how close is too close when they may be one in the same? 

The Seven Stages War left much of the planet a charred wasteland. The future belongs to the next generation’s chosen few who must rebuild it. But to enter this elite group, candidates must first pass The Testing—their one chance at a college education and a rewarding career. 

Cia Vale is honored to be chosen as a Testing candidate; eager to prove her worthiness as a University student and future leader of the United Commonwealth. But on the eve of her departure, her father’s advice hints at a darker side to her upcoming studies--trust no one. 

But surely she can trust Tomas, her handsome childhood friend who offers an alliance? Tomas, who seems to care more about her with the passing of every grueling (and deadly) day of the Testing. To survive, Cia must choose: love without truth or life without trust."

Review:

• I thought it would be really good because of the riveting summary. I've heard many good things about it.
• I didn't really like it because it reminded me of too many other dystopian books that I've read like, The Hunger Games or Matched, by Ally Condie.
• The romance didn't mean anything to me, it sounded like the author added it in to try to make the story more interesting.
• It already was really boring, so the romance and "concept" didn't make a difference to me.
• I was disappointed, and don't recommend it.

Enchanted, by Alethea Kontis

Enchanted, (Woodcutter Sisters #1) by Alethea Kontis

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Retellings, Fairy Tales Never Heard Of

Other Woodcutter Sisters Books

Rating: 4/5 stars

Source: Book Publishing Orders

First Line: unknown (will check soon)

   Goodreads Summary: "It isn't easy being the rather overlooked and unhappy youngest sibling to sisters named for the other six days of the week. Sunday’s only comfort is writing stories, although what she writes has a terrible tendency to come true.

When Sunday meets an enchanted frog who asks about her stories, the two become friends. Soon that friendship deepens into something magical. One night Sunday kisses her frog goodbye and leaves, not realizing that her love has transformed him back into Rumbold, the crown prince of Arilland—and a man Sunday’s family despises.

The prince returns to his castle, intent on making Sunday fall in love with him as the man he is, not the frog he was. But Sunday is not so easy to woo. How can she feel such a strange, strong attraction for this prince she barely knows? And what twisted secrets lie hidden in his past - and hers?"

       

     Review:

• I wanted to read this for a long time, it looked really good and the summary captivated me.
• It wasn't good as I thought it'd be, reminded me of Ash by Malinda Lo
• I liked the romance and the prince.
• It was a little cheesy, with the situation that Sunday's family was in and what Sunday loved to do.
• I recommend it for faery tale lovers, but not for those who most of the time read dystopian and science fiction novels.

What Santa Got Me For Christmas...

   Hi everyone!

I'm sorry it's a little too late... but, Merry Christmas to you all! Wishing you a 

year full of good health, happiness, and of course, books!

This is going to be a really quick post, so don't expect too much.

These are my gorgeous books what I got for Christmas!

Some of the ones that I was so happy with were, Attachments by Rainbow Rowell,

Confessions of a Private School Murder, by James Patterson, These Broken Stars,

Crewel, Just One Day, Perfect Ruin, Asylum and many more.

And then.... I got a Macbook Air that I'm currently using to blog with! It's

so easy to use and is perfect for blogging and reading off of. I will begin to vlog

on Youtube soon!

Signing off,

Michelle

Merry Christmas and to those Canadians,

have a fun time battling out those crowds tomorrow

during Boxing Day!

How I Lost You, by Janet Gurtler

How I Lost You,  by Janet Gurtler

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Chick-lit, Drugs/Alcohol

Other Janet Gurtler Books

Rating: 4/5 stars

Source: Bookstore

First Line: "The boys were watching us, trying to get us to make mistakes."







  Goodreads Summary: There are a few things Grace Anderson knows for sure. One is that nothing will ever come between her and her best friend, Kya Kessler. They have a pact. Buds Before Studs. Sisters Before Misters. But in the summer before senior year, life throws out challenges they never expected. And suddenly the person who's always been there starts to need the favor returned. Grace and Kya are forced to question how much a best friend can forgive. And the answer is not what they expected.

    Review:

•     I expected this to be amazing, because Janet Gurtler is great every time.
•     All of her books include something rare, and we never really hear about the bad sides of friendships. It's been a while, so this is a good time.
•     I hated Grace's family/setting so much, the atmosphere was very dull and I'd never want to live there.
•     Kya was just a free, out-going person, and I liked that about her. She was willing to take risks for the people she loved, but at some points she was very lost and didn't know what to in life and took it as a waste. 
•     Levi was adorable, my heart stopped whenever he spoke. 
•     I loved this a lot, but not Janet's best

Top 10 Best Books of 2013

 Sadly, we're getting closer to the end of 2013, and are looking onto 2014, a fresh start... and that means many more books will be released and many more authors will be introduced into the YA world. I've read about 350 books so far this year, but we all know that everyone has their favourites.

   I've learned that reading books are all about enjoying them. I've recently began blogging in March, which has let me meet many amazing people, and other bookworms who also share some things in common with me- books and fandoms. I also participated in the A-Z Challenge, and had a blast. 2013 has gave me many more opportunities than at this time last year, and now I'm here to be thanking the authors/books that made my day and made me happy. Please note, I am only making a list for the top 10 books that came out in 2013 and I loved. There are many more favourites that I've read 2013 but came out earlier. So... where do we began?

1. Clockwork Princess, by Cassandra Clare

I remember how much I anticipated this novel. I couldn't wait. Cassandra

Clare always leaves readers wanting more after reading her books, and we usually 

have to wait about a year for the next book to come out. Clockwork Princess

was the last book in the trilogy, The Infernal Devices, which was a prequel trilogy

to The Mortal Instruments series that has recently become a movie adaptation.

Clockwork Princess was action-packed, and answered all of the questions that us readers had.

2. The Program, by Suzanne Young

This is one of my favourite novels of all-time. I never read a book about

having suicide as an epidemic. I always wondering how Suzanne Young got the idea 

for this series. I remember crying so much during that book, my iPad got wet. It was stunning,

the romance was brutal, because you could tell how much the characters wanted each other

during the tough times when they were in The Program, plus, the cover is gorgeous, 

what else could a girl ask for?

3. The Elite, by Kiera Cass

I remember leaving The Selection for a little while, but once I picked it 

up again, I became obsessed and I couldn't wait for The Elite. I pre-ordered it, and 

I remember checking the mail box everyday to see if the package had arrived. Once I got it,

I never put it down until it was over. The Selection trilogy is gorgeous, the romance is stunning,

because Kiera Cass creates male characters that are so strongly real, and

you never know who's side to be on. I love this one so much, and I can't wait for

The One.

4. Elegy, by Amanda Hocking

When this book came out, I was on vacation, and I remember going to the bookstore, and

when I saw it, it was like love at first sight. The Wake series is amazing, I will never forget it.

I always remember thinking that Amanda Hocking is one fast writer, every time

I finished one of the novels, one month later, the next one would come out.

I cried a lot during this novel, because of all the "memories I had with it," and because

it was coming to an end. But the ending was gorgeous, and I couldn't have

asked for a better series, every novel was five stars, perfection.

5. Seven Minutes in Heaven, by Sara Shepard

I always thought that this series sometimes became boring, but I never gave

up with it because I wanted to find out what would happen. I'm thanking Sara Shepard because

she sticked with a six-book series with this one, instead of a fourteen and counting series she is currently doing with Pretty Little Liars, which I am kind of upset with

because she's over-exaggerating with it.

Seven Minutes in Heaven was perfect. I was so surprised

with who Sutton's killer ended up to be, don't worry, no spoilers here.

I couldn't have asked for a better ending.

6. Requiem, by Lauren Oliver

I began the Delirium trilogy at the perfect time, about two weeks before 

the release of this one. I became obsessed right away, but I already knew that 

I'd enjoy it because I loved Lauren's Before I Fall that I read earlier. A lot of people

were disappointed with this one, mainly because there wasn't a lot of dialogue and because of 

the "brutal" ending, but I totally disagree. The ending was perfect and left us wondering and thinking.

7. Eleanor & Park, by Rainbow Rowell

When this book came out, I was stunned. The cover is gorgeous. It's simple,

and just pulls you in. I received this novel through ebook, but I found that I definitely

need this in my collection. It's perfection. Eleanor & Park was so good that I dreamt about

what happened next, I swear. I need more Rainbow Rowell, soon. Fangirl also was amazing, 

coming up next.

8. Fangirl, by Rainbow Rowell

I wanted to read Eleanor & Park before I'd pick up this one to see if

Rainbow Rowell's books are any good, but my oh my, I should've picked this up on release

day. Fangirl definitely describes us bookworms's fandoms that we are all part of, and the

true meaning of fan fiction. This book was so much fun, I felt like I was in paradise the

whole way through. Gorgeous!

9.The Madman's Daughter, by Megan Shepard

I never thought that I'd enjoy this book so much. I finished it in one sitting, right beside

the fireplace. It was the perfect setting, where I was reading a perfect book.

I've read a lot of bad reviews on this one, saying that only the beginning was good and

the rest sucked, but I disagree, those people just don't understand.

This is one of the best books of 2013, no doubts or regrets.

10. Sever, by Lauren DeStefano

Again, I read this in one sitting. I was kind of upset that the

Chemical Garden Trilogy was ending, but I realized that it was time, and the book had

the perfect right ending that anyone could ask for. Sever was very upsetting at times, I was yelling

at the character for what they were doing, which wasn't a bad thing. Lauren DeStefano

is an amazing author, and I need Perfect Ruin ASAP.

So there you have it. It's so hard to put these books in order from best and going down, so I'm regretting the order I put the books in. Allegiant was supposed to be on the list, but I realized that I didn't have as much fun reading it as I did with these books. 2014, I'm ready, here we go!

The Adoration of Jenna Fox, by Mary E. Pearson

"The Adoration of Jenna Fox (Jenna Fox Chronicles #1)"  by Mary E. Pearson

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Dystopia, Science Fiction

Other Jenna Fox Chronicles Books

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Source: Amazon (for a really good price)

First Line: "I used to be someone."







Goodreads Summary:

  Seventeen-year-old Jenna Fox has just awoken from a year-long coma - so she's been told - and she is still recovering from the terrible accident that caused it. But what happened before that? She's been given home movies chronicling her entire life, which spark memories to surface. But are the memories really hers? And why won't anyone in her family talk about the accident? Jenna is becoming more curious. But she is also afraid of what she might find out if she ever gets up the courage to ask her questions.

What happened to Jenna Fox? And who is she really?

Review:

• I liked the setting and time period, the author really created a setting that is really different other books
• The events really give us readers something to think about. Other books that featured comas were really inaccurate, forgetting what words mean is definitely something that could happen, and the author definitely proved the right facts and definitely shows that she researched the topic.
• Jenna wasn't as strong as I hoped that she would become, I would've liked her not to freak out as much as she did, she seemed too depressed and got angry for stupid  inaccurate things.
• The romance happened too quickly, we really didn't get to find out much about Ethan and where he came from.
• I loved the ending. It left you off with no questions and it was very light and flowing in details and the writing.

So, what I found out was that this is a mixture of sci-fi and dystopia, but in some ways, the world was utopian and perfect.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, by Sherman Alexie

Title: The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

Author: Sherman Alexie

Rating: 4/5 stars

Release Date: September 12, 2007

Publisher: Little Brown Books

Format: Paperback Edition

Goodreads Average Rating: 4.13

Age Group: 12+





  Goodreads Summary: In his first book for young adults, bestselling author Sherman Alexie tells the story of Junior, a budding cartoonist growing up on the Spokane Indian Reservation. Determined to take his future into his own hands, Junior leaves his troubled school on the rez to attend an all-white farm town high school where the only other Indian is the school mascot. Heartbreaking, funny, and beautifully written, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, which is based on the author's own experiences, coupled with poignant drawings by acclaimed artist Ellen Forney, that reflect the character's art, chronicles the contemporary adolescence of one Native American boy as he attempts to break away from the life he was destined to live.

    I've seen this book everywhere, and it is known as one of the best teen novels of the decade. I finally picked it up, and I really liked it. It's hilarious and you could tell that things like this actually happen in reality. I needed a contemporary novel, and this was the perfect one. I've never read a book about Indians, so this is a first.

   Sherman Alexie has created an awesome ruling character over Junior. I really liked him and liked to hear his thoughts on everything that was going on with him. Most people think that boys aren't really emotional or have true feelings, but through Junior, I really realized that they do and it's good to read a book through a male's perspective for once. These days, we don't really get to see that a lot.

   I found this book to be hilarious, riveting and captivating. Loved it. Keep an eye on for Sherman Alexie, he's ruling the teen world!

Prodigy, by Marie Lu

Title: Prodigy

Author: Marie Lu

Rating: 4/5 stars

Release Date: January 29, 2013

Publisher: Putnam Juvenile

Format: Hardcover Edition

Goodreads Average Rating: 4.31

Age Group: 12+





  Goodreads Summary: Injured and on the run, it has been seven days since June and Day barely escaped Los Angeles and the Republic with their lives. Day is believed dead having lost his own brother to an execution squad who thought they were assassinating him. June is now the Republic's most wanted traitor. Desperate for help, they turn to the Patriots - a vigilante rebel group sworn to bring down the Republic. But can they trust them or have they unwittingly become pawns in the most terrifying of political games?

   After Legend, I needed more. I couldn't wait for Prodigy. Marie Lu always leaves you wanting more after you finish one of her novels, and that's what I'm feeling right now. I need Champion, ASAP. 

   Prodigy was really good. The beginning just left off where Legend did, and the events and unstoppable things that happened just made me want to squeal. I am a total fangirl for this series, and couldn't have asked for a better middle to the trilogy... okay maybe one that was a little better. I felt that the story wasn't as strong as the first book, but never mind, it was really good.

    I loved the sneakiness that Day and June did together, they're a squad, they're a team, they're a couple, and I love them. June is superb, and is a strong woman, but when her memories come back to her, the overtake her, and completely change her. Day is adorable, and is definitely the mastermind behind everything the couple does.

      Great and heart-stopping. 

A Need So Beautiful, by Suzanne Young

Title: A Need So Beautiful

Author: Suzanne Young

Rating: 4/5 stars

Release Date: June 21, 2011

Publisher: Balzer & Bray

Format: Paperback Edition

Goodreads Average Rating: 3.74

Age Group: 11+





  Goodreads Summary: We all want to be remembered. Charlotte's destiny is to be Forgotten...

Charlotte’s best friend thinks Charlotte might be psychic. Her boyfriend thinks she’s cheating on him. But Charlotte knows what’s really wrong: She is one of the Forgotten, a kind of angel on earth, who feels the Need—a powerful, uncontrollable draw to help someone, usually a stranger.

But Charlotte never wanted this responsibility. What she wants is to help her best friend, whose life is spiraling out of control. She wants to lie in her boyfriend's arms forever. But as the Need grows stronger, it begins to take a dangerous toll on Charlotte. And who she was, is, and will become--her mark on this earth, her very existence--is in jeopardy of disappearing completely.

Charlotte will be forced to choose: Should she embrace her fate as a Forgotten, a fate that promises to rip her from the lives of those she loves forever? Or is she willing to fight against her destiny--no matter how dark the consequences.

    After I read Suzanne's The Program, I was bawling because it was perfection. Like you don't even understand how much I loved it. It's dystopian and the story were amazing. But we're not here to talk about The Program, are we not?

    I have to admit- I feel that A Need So Beautiful wasn't as good as Suzanne's other novels. It wasn't as strongly written, but I did like the characters and where they were coming from.

     I wish that the story was longer. I felt that there wasn't enough details, and we really didn't know much about the characters, but I still liked them anyways. 

     Charlotte was very peculiar, and I guess that's why I enjoyed reading about her and her story. She was very confident but then sometimes was locked up in her shell, and didn't want to come out. I like when characters are like that because they keep you guessing, and isn't that what authors want to accomplish?

      I found this to be riveting and a light read for a quick span of time that you have in your day.

Dash and Lily's Book of Dares, by David Levithan and Rachel Cohn

Title: Dash and Lily's Book of Dares

Author: David Levithan and Rachel Cohn

Rating: 4/5 stars

Release Date: October 11, 2011

Publisher: Ember

Format: Paperback Edition

Goodreads Average Rating: 3.88

Age Group: 12+





   Goodreads Summary: "I've left some clues for you.  If you want them, turn the page. If you don't, put the book back on the shelf, please."

So begins the latest whirlwind romance from the bestselling authors of Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist. Lily has left a red notebook full of challenges on a favorite bookstore shelf, waiting for just the right guy to come along and accept its dares. But is Dash that right guy? Or are Dash and Lily only destined to trade dares, dreams, and desires in the notebook they pass back and forth at locations across New York? Could their in-person selves possibly connect as well as their notebook versions? Or will they be a cosmic mismatch of disastrous proportions?

     I once put this book away for a little while, and now that I've come back to it, I feel that I did at the perfect time, Christmastime. What's better than reading a romance book that takes place during time when in reality it actually is Christmastime? 

    Asdfghikl. I enjoyed this one so much, all I needed was a cup of hot chocolate right next to me, and I would be in heaven. Oh, and look at the gorgeous cover, you just want to eat it up.

    I love the way that David Levithan and Rachel Cohn set up the story, in different dialogues that were all written in a red notebook, passing along to each other. Both Dash and Lily still had a life, and it's not what normal teenagers would do these days, teenagers today would text or call other than writing in a notebook, how adorable and unique is that?

     I really liked Dash. You could tell that he loved this girl, even though he never met her earlier. The way their relationship formed was gorgeous, right until the moment they met in person. Lily was fun and intelligent. 

     I loved this book. It was fun, hilarious and adorable x100. I can't get enough.

Empress of the World, by Sara Ryan

Title: Empress of the World

Author: Sara Ryan

Rating: 4/5 stars

Release Date: May 26, 2003

Publisher: Speak

Format: Paperback Edition

Goodreads Average Rating: 3.73

Age Group: 12+





  Goodreads Summary: Nicola Lancaster is spending her summer at the Siegel Institute, a hothouse of smart, intense teenagers. She soon falls in with Katrina (Manic Computer Chick), Isaac (Nice-Guy-Despite-Himself), Kevin (Inarticulate Composer) . . . and Battle, a beautiful blond dancer. The two become friends--and then, startlingly, more than friends. What do you do when you think you're attracted to guys, and then you meet a girl who steals your heart?


    I've seen this novel all over the place, apparently it's a really good book. I never picked it up until now, and I may admit, I really liked it and I believe that it's a great summer read for all of the teenage girls out there.

    I never thought that it would be a book about lesbians, I mean I guess I didn't read the whole summary. But when I did find out, I guess I saw it coming, Nicola described Battle really... detailed. 

   I preferred Battle over Nicola. Battle was more confident and wasn't too obsessive like Nicola was. Nicola got annoying and whiny sometimes, and I had those moments when I wondered when it would get better. 

    But overall, I really enjoyed Empress of the World, it was catchy and different.

The Giver, by Lois Lowry

Title: The Giver

Author: Lois Lowry

Rating: 4/5 stars

Release Date: January 1, 1993

Publisher: Ember

Format: Paperback Edition

Goodreads Average Rating: 4.11

Age Group: 11+





  Goodreads Summary: Jonas' world is perfect. Everything is under control. There is no war or fear or pain. There are no choices. Every person is assigned a role in the Community. When Jonas turns twelve, he is singled out to receive special training from The Giver. The Giver alone holds the memories of the true pain and pleasure of life. Now, it is time for Jonas to receive the truth. There is no turning back.

   I understand why this is one of the best YA novels of all time, the concept is unique. I've never read an utopian book before, and I don't know why any authors try to complete a novel that fits in that genre. Utopian societies are fun to read about, because we know that our world isn't utopian, but it isn't fully dystopian either, it's somewhere in between.

   I'd have to say that my favourite character would have to be The Giver. He was really wise, and I loved to read about his past experiences with people like Rosemary. I understand why he does what he does.

     I've read the summaries of the other novels in the Giver Quartet, and I like that everything doesn't have to do with The Giver and with Jonas. They are all different, and the characters seem very... different.

     I finally read this, and I liked it!

Natural Born Angel, by Scott Speer

Title: Natural Born Angel

Author: Scott Speer

Rating: 4/5 stars

Release Date: April 23, 2013

Publisher: Razorbill

Format: ebook

Goodreads Average Rating: 3.85

Age Group: 12+





 Goodreads Summary: Life turned upside down for Maddy Montgomery when she found out she was half-Angel and was catapulted into the scene of flashbulbs, paparazzi, and the fervent adulation that comes with being in the celebrity Angel world. She's trying to juggle her ordinary life—high school, family, friends—with the intense demands of being in the public eye as heartthrob Angel Jackson Godspeed's girlfriend.

And now Maddy must face the most difficult choice of her life. She's been offered the chance to become a Guardian. This means entering into dangerous and high stakes training, with no guarantee that she can succeed. But more than that, it would mean leaving her mortal life behind—forever—and allying with the Angels at a time when their relationship with humans is heading for war. . . .

   I was really impressed with Immortal City, the first novel of this trilogy. I had the second book in ebook format already, so I decided to read it right away.

  Natural Born Angel wasn't as good as the first book, but I enjoyed it anyways. 

  In this book, we really get to see Maddy loosen up, and she becomes more confident and a more popular celebrity in Angel City, right next to being Jackson's girlfriend. What more could she ask for?

  I really like how the author makes up futuristic products, such as Nike Wings or the Blackberry Miracle. I always chuckle to myself when a new item is introduced, and it would be really cool if they become real. :)

  I still dislike Jacks, and I'm pretty sure that I won't change my mind. When you dislike someone, it's hard to think otherwise, right?

   

Immortal City, by Scott Speer

Title: Immortal City

Author: Scott Speer

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Release Date: April 3, 2012

Publisher: Razorbill

Format: Hardcover Edition

Goodreads Average Rating: 4.07

Age Group: 12+





    Goodreads Summary: Jackson Godspeed is the hottest young Angel in a city filled with them.

He's days away from becoming a full Guardian, and people around the world are already competing for the chance to be watched over by him. Everyone's obsessed with the Angels and the lucky people they protect - everyone except for Madison Montgomery.

Maddy's the one girl in Angel City who doesn't breathlessly follow the Angels on TV and gossip blogs. When she meets Jackson, she doesn't recognize him. But Jackson is instantly captivated by her, and against all odds the two fall in love.

Maddy is swiftly caught up in Jackson's scene, a world of glamour, paparazzi - and murder. A serial killer is on the loose, leaving dead Angels' wings for the police to find on the Walk of Fame. Even the Guardians are powerless to protect themselves in the face of this threat & and this time it's up to Maddy to save Jackson.

       First of all, what I really loved about this book was the style and concept that the author created. I mean it was about a mainstream concept- angels, but I've never read or heard about a story/book where the angels were known, and were celebrities and were guardian angels in a world where they're special and precious. How did Scott Speer come up with this idea? I love it.

     This was cheesy at times. I can admit it. I find that the male character is always the supernatural thing, and the female always ends up falling in love with him. I'd like to see this reversed, where they hate each other and the girl is the supernatural creature, that would be interesting.

     Maddy was a good female heroine. I liked her "family history," and how she wasn't a snob. She appreciated what she had and I love to meet real people like that. That means that it's easy to relate to a character if she's like someone you'd like to meet in reality. 

    I actually didn't find Jacks amusing or a hottie. He just seemed... snobby. He thought that he could get a girl by bribing her with the luxurious things that the world has to offer, I know that I wouldn't want that in a relationship. The author maybe should have worked a little on the male's feelings. Other than that, the book was awesome.

     

Choker, by Elizabeth Woods

Title: Choker

Author: Elizabeth Woods

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Release Date: January 4, 2011

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Format: Hardcover Edition

Goodreads Average Rating: 3.67

Age Group: 12+





   Goodreads Summary: Sixteen-year-old Cara Lange has been a loner ever since she moved away from her best and only friend, Zoe, years ago. She eats lunch with the other girls from the track team, but they're not really her friends. Mostly she spends her time watching Ethan Gray from a distance, wishing he would finally notice her, and avoiding the popular girls who call her "Choker" after a humiliating incident in the cafeteria.

Then one day Cara comes home to find Zoe waiting for her. Zoe's on the run from problems at home, and Cara agrees to help her hide. With her best friend back, Cara's life changes overnight. Zoe gives her a new look and new confidence, and next thing she knows, she's getting invited to parties and flirting with Ethan. Best of all, she has her BFF there to confide in. 

But just as quickly as Cara's life came together, it starts to unravel. A girl goes missing in her town, and everyone is a suspect—including Ethan. Worse still, Zoe starts behaving strangely, and Cara begins to wonder what exactly her friend does all day when she's at school. You're supposed to trust your best friend no matter what, but what if she turns into a total stranger?

     This is one of the best books I've read in a while. I am very pleased with the outcome, and probably could have only asked for a little more. The only catch is, that it was too short, but other than that, the whole story was perfection.

      I was creeped out by the book, for the first half of the book nothing big happened, except for one main death, and that's barely it, but that doesn't mean that I wasn't sucked in, of course I was.

      The second half of the book was where the drama and horrifying events began to summon. Zoe became more weirder and weirder, and at one point, I just wanted to kick her in the butt and yell. She just gets us readers frustrated, I really disliked her character, but I think that's what the author wanted to accomplish by writing this novel.

       Cara was a pretty good character, but I felt that at some times, she became too weak for who she was, and basically relied on others to help her and solve her problems. First of all, I didn't really understand why she would just take in someone into her house like that, I mean were they that close? Okay, you'll find out everything by the end, the author just drops out the answer just like that. Pow.

        Why weren't the town looking for Zoe like they did for Alexis? I was thinking this throughout the novel, but when the author drops the bomb at the end of the book, everything became clear to me, just like that.

         Gorgeous and riveting. Amazing for an author's debut.