That Summer, by Sarah Dessen

Title: That Summer

Author: Sarah Dessen

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Release Date: April 6, 2006

Publisher: Speak

Format: Paperback Edition

Goodreads Average Rating: 3.50

Age Group: 11+

Would I Recommend: Definitely!

   

   This is my first Sarah Dessen novel, I've been dying to read one of hers, I kept telling myself, this summer, this summer, so here I am! That Summer was the perfect summer beach read to start with, I never wanted it to end.

   "It’s funny how one summer can change everything. It must be something about the heat and the smell of chlorine, fresh-cut grass and honeysuckle, asphalt sizzling after late-day thunderstorms, the steam rising while everything drips around it. Something about long, lazy days and whirring air conditioners and bright plastic flip-flops from the drugstore thwacking down the street. Something about fall being so close, another year, another Christmas, another beginning. So much in one summer, stirring up like the storms that crest at the end of each day, blowing out all the heat and dirt to leave everything gasping and cool. Everyone can reach back to one summer and lay a finger to it, finding the exact point when everything changed. That summer was mine.”

       Everything'g going wrong for Haven this summer. Her father's remarrying to the weather woman that he works with, her sister is not acting like herself, also marrying a guy who is so not suited for her, that's two of the things that are turning her world upside-down. Haven wishes that everything could go back to the way they were in that summer, where her parents were together, and her sister had the perfect boyfriend. When Haven meets that boyfriend, he helps her realize that the summer that she wanted may not have been so perfect after all.

       I think that this novel deserves more than a 3.50 rating. Come on! Many reviewers have also mentioned that this wasn't the Dessen novel that beginners should start with. Maybe, there are better novels than this one that she wrote, but I am glad that I began with this one. Starting off the summer with this beachy, chick-lit read was all that I needed to make my day even better.

        I was totally hooked to this novel from the start, I figured that it would be a romance novel, which it really wasn't. It was more of that novel about figuring who you are, and the importance of sisterhood. I imagine this novel coming from my sister's words, her as Haven, and myself as Ashley. 

     Haven was a fantastic lead. She might have been unsure of her life, I would have been the same if I was in her situation, she was insecure of who she was, her height and all. I'm tall too, I know what it feels to be overlooking everything around everyone, sometimes you wish to be shorter so you're not all noticeable. Haven taught all of us to overcome the labyrinth, the troubles we may have, to speak with someone, and to love the life you currently have.

     Ashley was the other character who I felt that I related to. Being a big sister, I feel that my little sis takes after what I do, and remembers the memories that I may have without her. She pays attention to things that I don't, and helps me understand the troubles that we may have in our lives. Ashley seriously felt realistic to me, I don't know about you.

    They say that Sumner really plays a big role in this novel, he's mentioned in the summary, but I really don't feel it. I feel that he's more of a background character with a small role. He might have told Haven the truth about everything, but to me, the sisterhood between Haven and Ashley was the main idea here. 

    Overall, I'm super-excited to see what else Sarah Dessen has in store for me. She's a terrific author, and I am incredibly fond of her ideas and thoughts.

    I can't wait to read her other novels!

The Magnolia League, by Katie Crouch

Title: The Magnolia League

Author: Katie Crouch

Rating: 5/5 stars

Release Date: May 3, 2011

Publisher: Poppy

Format: Paperback Edition

Goodreads Average Rating: 3.38

Age Group: 12+
Would I Recommend It: YES!

    By the way, as you can see, I added two new sections in my reviewing, "Goodreads Average Rating," and if I would recommend it or not.

    Looking at the reviews and comments said about this novel weren't so pleasing. Many people have mentioned that the author's writing didn't make sense, and how Alex, the heroine was dull and mainstream to other female leads.

   The Magnolia League's female lead is Alexandria "Alex" Lee, daughter of a herbal farmer, who could create a potion/antibiotic for just about of anything, using natural materials. When Alex's mother dies, she has no choice but to be shipped off to Savannah, Georgia, where her grandmother, Dorothy Lee, lives. Leaving her hard working life and her loving boyfriend behind, Alex finds out that she is an unwilling member of the Georgian debutante society, The Magnolia League, made up of the wealthiest, most powerful members of the city. As Alex is introduced to the new world of manners and prejudice to other societies, she must learn the secret of them all, and how to learn to become part of the magical world that beholds the truth.

    I describe The Magnolia League as a powerful novel. It's one of those that won't let you put it down, basically. You feel linked to it, and the plot is so ongoing, you will forget what world you're coming from.

   My expectations were very low, for this one. With a 3.38 rating, I thought that I would dislike it. Being in my bookshelf for a while now, I've never felt that it was the time to pick it up. Thankfully, I did now, or else I'd just miss something wonderful and almost perfection.

   I've read reviews where people have mentioned that the author has gone against teen reading, or something like that? It doesn't matter what the article said, people, read the book, what would be wrong with it?

   Alex is a fantastic female lead. I loved how she was more of a hipster, eco girl, caring about the Earth, and how we treat it. Like mother, like daughter, right? I felt the pain that she went through when her mother passed away, and I knew that somewhere out there, there are people like her waiting to escape from the troubles and problems that we have today. She taught me that we have to take the chance, once in a while, because it may look like the wrong path, but it might bring us somewhere good. Remember when her mother, Louisa said that there are two paths, one right and one wrong?

   I loved the Magnolia sisters, or at least, from what I call them. When Hayes and Madison supposedly "ditched" Alex, I knew from what kind of characters they were, that it could never be true. Hayes was obviously my most favourite, she was easygoing and loyal to Alex, trying to make her feel at home, even though she knew that her heart belonged to Reggie, her boyfriend.

   Reggie. Alex really is the type of person to have a rebellic boyfriend, and Reggie is the perfect one. Maybe it's the marijuana smoking, I don't know, he definitely seemed a rebel to me. Now if you don't want a spoiler, don't read the next sentence. I couldn't believe that he cheated on Alex like that. When she met that Crystal, I had a feeling that she was also with Reggie. Grr!

  Thaddus and Dexter. Hahah. Thaddus was a beautiful male lead. I fell in love with him from the start, but I wish that he was a little more charming with Alex, and would've given her a chance earlier, even though we all knew that he would eventually. Dexter was hilarious! I loved his humor and how he may have been overweight, but that didn't stop him from having insecure feelings about himself, and how he'd still want to have fun in his life. Deviled eggs!

   Dorothy, Alex's grandmother, was one wise woman. She obviously knew right from wrong, and I think that she was the one who changed Alex by the end.

   This book was made up of many beautiful characters, I can't help myself from thinking about them wildly. The concept was unique, and I'll never forget the storyline. I keep on repeating the novel over and over in my head. It's beautiful!

    I cannot wait to read the sequel to this, this book has taught me that we should never listen to the reviews, buy the novel if the summary looks good to you. Take a chance.

Tempest, by Julie Cross

Title: Tempest

Author: Julie Cross

Rating: 3/5 stars

Release Date: January 17, 2012

Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin

Format: Hardcover Edition

Age Group: 13+

    I felt that I was in the mood for a time-traveling novel, so here I am...

    Julie Cross' Tempest was something that I'd call an average novel. It had its ups and downs, but it was good enough to make it through the end. I wish that all novels were 5 stars, but then my job would be boring, I'd know that every novel would be amazing, and perfect. Anyways...

   This plot was unique, that's probably the #1 thing that I loved about the novel. You really don't find many time-traveling novels in this world, we have Steven Moffat's Doctor Who, but that's a mix between supernatural/mystery, and it's a British TV show. 

   I did get bored a few times, especially through the times when Jackson tried to get back to 2009, and whenever he'd ask what year it was, he acted kind of stupid, but I'm talking about the plot here. I wasn't too sure about this novel, but it did have a 3.74 rating, which is pretty good, so I decided to give it a try.

  I was super excited to read this, mainly because the lead was a male. I think that in this generation, we have too many females taking the lead, which is great, but we need some men taking the lead once in a while. I may say that Jackson wasn't the best male lead, he was too sensitive and wimpy at times, no offense to the author. 

   Jackson's and Holly's romance was one thing to keepsake. You could tell how much Jackson cared for Holly, he never wanted to let her go, even at the roughest times. Doing what he did wasn't the best decision, but you can't redo what happened in the novel, unless you're the author that could time-travel. I think that Jackson got enough time-traveling for one novel. But, there is a second book, right? Sadly, I'm not planning to read it, though.

The Secret Life of Prince Charming by Deb Caletti

Title: The Secret Life of Prince Charming

Author: Deb Caletti

Rating: 1.5/5 stars (BLEHH!)

Release Date: April 7, 2009

Publisher: Simon Pulse

Format: Hardcover

Age Group: 12+

I know that I learnt my lesson after reading Deb Caletti's Stay, which I disliked very much. But, I got this novel before I read Stay, thinking that Caletti's books were very well written and interesting. I made a huge mistake reading both after all...

Why did I choose to read this novel? I totally regret it, and I didn't have big expectations for this at all. The first chapter seemed to interest me, but after that, I was 99% totally bored out of my mind. I read until about page 230 or so, I still don't know why, and then I just threw it down. Caletti made me so angry with her novels, it almost ruined my day.

The plot was disastrous, the characters were dull and unrealistic, I really don't have much to say other than bad things about this book. I'm not going to keep on blabbing about the bad things, lets make this a short comment and go on with the flow.

BLEHH!

Passion by Lauren Kate

Title: Passion
Author: Lauren Kate
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Release Date: June 14, 2011
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Format: Paperback Edition
Age Group: 12+

Everyone's been raving about the Fallen series, and so have I. Lauren Kate presents us a world that has never been created, or that is similar to another. Passion was probably the best one yet, right after Fallen itself. I never wanted to leave this world of true passion, and faults between the characters.

Reading this novel made me feel that I was munching on a triple-scoop ice cream cone, with three of my favourite flavours, vanilla, orange cream, and strawberry. I enjoyed it so much! Every moment was one to cherish, even though I actually wasn't living the novel, which I wish I could... This book was true passion, it's hard to explain how perfect it almost was, but let me try my best. It was a while since I read Torment, so when I began this, it was hard to remember who was who. Lauren Kate did a fantastic job by giving us some insight on what happened the novel before. I was hooked to this from the prologue, where Sophia, and Lucinda were at the horse-racing derby in Kentucky. I loved how Luce and Daniel time-travelled through the centuries where they were together, I loved to see how an author believed the world was years ago. Meeting the other "Luces" and "Daniels" kinda gave us something to compare, how they loved each other in the past, and how in the present.

Luce has always been one of my favourite female leads, she's brave, outgoing, and willing. In Passion, she really showed that she is the one to be remembered. Hiding from everyone, Luce wanted to see the lives she had before her present one, I think that she did a marvelous job finding who she is in this novel, meeting the other Lucindas and Daniels, and finding her way through the curse that started it all.

Now, my Daniel, the boy whose heart belongs to me, and to Luce of course. I couldn't believe that he would go through all that he went through in this novel. He's made a big confidence improvement in this book, remember how moody he was in the first novel?

There was something missing in this book of course, it's a 4.5 star rating. But, that didn't ruin anything at all. I love this series so much, and I can't wait to read the next novel, and the extra, Fallen in Love. This series really warms my heart, I have no words to say.

The ending just left us off, there! Ugh, I want to know what happens next! Hint, something HUGE involving the curse came to be, lets hope that Daniel and Luce will fight the negativity, and bring out the good. I want the ending of the series to be fantastic! I heard some people say that it was sad, please, please, please be the way I want it to end!

Born at Midnight, by C.C. Hunter

Title: Born at Midnight

Author: C.C. Hunter

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Release Date: March 29, 2011

Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin

Format: Paperback Edition

Age Group: 12+

     Look at the stunning cover, it haunts you. A mysterious girl standing in the middle of a tree seperated into two with the purple-gray colours, you know what I mean.

    I remember when Born at Midnight was released, it was all over the internet, featuring as the hottest spookiest teen novel yet. So, this past year, I finally picked it up, since the summary captivated me and because of the high expectations I had. 

    From a four decimal five star rating, you could tell that I really enjoyed this novel. It was unstoppable! Unique setting, powerful storyline and mysteries to be solved, this is like a breath of fresh air for me and for the other bookworms that love the fun of a supernatural novel. When I started it a few days ago late at night, I couldn't put it down. I eventually had to, so I can get up early the next day, but you know what I'm trying to say here. Unstoppable. Really.

    Kylie was a HARDCORE REBEL! I just felt that she was an incredible person, I'd love to meet her if she was real. Trying to get through the hard times in her life may be difficult, but when you have some ups and downs, you definitely have Kylie to turn to. This girl knows what to do when you're down. I wish that she was my best friend, not that I don't love my own bestie, (you know who you are.)

I just felt that Kylie was really outgoing, and bubbly at the same time. She knew what she wanted, unlike other heroines that I've read about.

   Then we have our fellow cabinmates at Shadow Falls, Della, Miranda, Derek (hehe), Lucas, Holiday, Daniel, and whomever else I haven't mentioned. I really loved them all! Della is my favourite of the ladies, she has a fantastic humourous personality, and she is the perfect friend that Kylie needs in what she's going through at the time. Choosing between Derek and Lucas is really difficult, but I think I'm going to go with Derek here. We know more about him, and I just love his protective, sweet personality. He's much better than that brat of an using ex Kylie once had.

    So, Born at Midnight somewhat surprised me, and somewhat increased my expectations even further. I knew that it was going to be great, but probably no further than a four star rating. I mean, those 301 books I gave the 5 star to really had to pass the test, right?

    I cannot wait to read the sequel, and the three novels after that!

The Near Witch, by Victoria Schwab

Title: The Near Witch

Author: Victoria Schwab

Rating: 2.5/5 stars

Release Date: August 2, 2011

Publisher: Hyperion Books CH

Format: Paperback Edition

Age Group: 11+

     Expectations, expectations, expectations. We most of the time always expect a book who's positive reviews we read about to be fantastic. Like they say, we should never trust no one, and that also goes for picking books. 

    The Near Witch was one of those novels' whose reviews I trusted, so I went with what the public said. On Goodreads specifically, this has an average 3.83 rating, which is pretty good if you look at others, it's almost a four. So, I went with what the public predicted, and I bought the novel.

    Haha, so here I am, done with it since yesterday, and I regret, or doubt that I bought it. Really? It just happened like that? This plot was very interesting in the beginning. The moor seemed very real, and the characters just flew to me. Once something may be good in the beginning doesn't mean that it will stay great for the rest of the novel. I found that this became super-boring, but I still didn't put it down for some reason. I guess it's just one of those novels, if you know what I mean.

    Lexi really seemed to me as one of those caring, but overprotective heroines, especially for her sister. When her uncle came over, she felt very uncomfortable in even speaking to him. I guess it's probably because of what happened to her father earlier, but that's another story to tell another time. Tyler, Cole, Edgar, and everyone who did make an impact on this novel to me were dull, they really didn't make a difference if they were there or not. I really thought that this story mainly focused on the whole Near Witch myth, nothing on the lifestyles and mysteries of the lives of these characters, they were just there because they were there. Hahah. 

    

       So why is this almost a three? Because I liked the myth and the beginning was good. That's all for now.

Georgetown Academy: Book One, by Jessica Koosed Etting and Alyssa Embree Schwartz

Title: Georgetown Academy

Author: Jessica Koosed Etting and Alyssa Embree Schwartz

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Release Date: October 24, 2012

Publisher: Coliloquy, LUC

Format: ebook (Netgalley)

Age Group: 12+

Now, this is the type of novel that I've been waiting and dreaming for! Georgetown Academy is a marvellous novel that will leave you wanting more.

I've always enjoyed the novels taken place in boarding schools around the world. From the SASS series, to this, I will definitely continue with what I've started with, and will never end. 

This plot was so much fun, seriously. I had a blast, causing me to feel that I was part of the novel! All the fun, games, and mysteries that the teenagers/point of views in this novel caused, I adored them. I felt that I was listening to a fun song, I just wanted to get up, and start dancing with the rest of the characters, and live the dream.

I hardly was ever bored with this 100 or so page long first novel, and I'm sure I won't be for the other three.

I think that all of the characters in this novel have touched my heart in some way, but Evan is the one that really found me. Maybe it was her personality, or the way she chose to see things, I don't know, I just really liked her. Ellie and the rest of the gang, like I said, really changed me, but, Evan really is the winner of them all.

 The ending of this one really shook us all, that's for sure. It was a total cliff-hanger, causing us to want to read the sequel right away, which for some disadvantages, sometimes, we have to wait a year for the sequel, and we sometimes loose our total interest in the series. We, luckily, have got the benefit that all four are out now in ebook format, and in a store near you! Fantastic, fantastic, fantastic. That's all I could say.

Shade, by Jeri Smith-Ready

Title: Shade 

Author: Jeri Smith-Ready

Rating: 4/5 stars

Release Date: May 4, 2010

Publisher: Simon Pulse

Format: Paperback Edition

Age Group: 12+

        Hmm... where do I begin? Oh yes, there. Shade is one novel that I've been looking forward to be reading for a long time. The summary captivates most readers, and you probably expect it to be a haunting novel that will thrill your insides out. I do agree with that, now that I've read it.

        Shade was one of those novels whose storyline I really kept safe in my mind. To me, it was beautiful, hauntingly, just like P.C. Cast says. Having to deal with the fact that it did take place with some rock n' roll bands, Logan's specifically, I really liked the fact that he was the hardcore type. But, before I get to the characters, let me focus on this for now. Although it was beautifully created, the plot did become a little too over exaggerated at times, some repeats overflowed once in awhile, and that probably brought the five star rating down. If it was a little more well-kept and stronger, we could've seen a perfect novel right before our very own eyes, my darlings.

        Now, the characters. Aura was a good heroine, but not the best, she did have her ups and downs. I think that she would have been brighter, and better if her personality didn't seem too depressing or over-reactive at times. I understand, your boyfriend had just passed away, but come on, try to make readers a little more interested in your situation? 

       Then we have the others, as I call it, Logan, his family, and Aura's bestie, what was her name? Hahah, you see, the characters probably have been so dull I have forgotten her name. These guys may have not made the right decisions most of the the time, but they all were fun to read about and I guess really opened my mind to new wonders and questions about humanity. 

       So, overall, Shade is what I call a particularly average novel. I mean it's better than a three-star rating obviously, but it had the average characters and details. The plot was very interesting to read about because of its differences from others. This is what I call a nice read.

Speak, by Laurie Halse Anderson

Title: Speak

Author: Laurie Halse Anderson

Rating: 5/5 stars

Release Date: April 1, 2001

Publisher: Puffin

Format: Paperback Edition

Age Group: 13+

Many bookworms I have encountered with have raved about Speak, the novel that is known for changing everyone's point of view on life. And from here on out, I am one of those bookworms included in the group, because I adored this novel, and I definitely believe that you will too.

So, how did Laurie Halse Anderson get this idea to create such a phenomenal novel? One word, dreams. Yes, I'm not kidding. Apparently, she heard Melinda's cries, and voila, this book is born. This plot was phenomenal. The world that Melinda lived in was selfless, and unbelievably cruel. How could this happen to people these days? It's something that we should try to prevent, we shouldn't be the perpetrators, we have to be the ones fighting against the problems. Ahh, this book was like a breath of fresh air for me, it teaches all of us to stand against, not within.

I guess that this next paragraph will be about Melinda, because she was an incredible heroine. Melinda was something. Although in the outside world Melinda may seem mute, and speechless, but you know what? She can say more than any of the other characters could say together. Melinda is the girl. Of course after the incident, it's difficult to say what's on your mind, I totally understand that, but nobody should give her a hard time, they don't even know the truth, they all thought that Melinda called the cops because she wanted to stop the party, who would do that, just leave if you can't stand it. I will remember Melinda forever, she's the character who taught me and many of us to speak what's on our minds, just like the title represents.

David is also another character that I really felt a connection to. He was like Melinda, in one way or another, except for the fact that he actually spoke what was on his mind, and look what he accomplished, more than what he thought. Mr. Neck was destined to leave. :) Mr. Freedman is the teacher that I wish I had, he's the type that you could explain all of your problems to, and he'd just listen. What amazing characters...

So, you probably see why I loved this book so much, it changed my life, and Melinda's life as well. Look at where she probably is now, in a happy, safe, comfortable environment where no one will pick on her for what they think happened, when they really didn't know the truth.

Guess what? I also watched the movie! Kristen Stewart played a great Melinda, but maybe not the actress I had in mind? This Melinda probably was way too mute, but the cast did an incredible job on this movie, it was very much like the novel itself.

Amazing. That's all I have to say.

Everneath, by Brodi Ashton

Title: Everneath

Author: Brodi Ashton

Rating: 3/5 stars

Release Date: January 24, 2012

Publisher: HarperCollins

Format: Hardcover

Age Group: 12+

     Really, this cover looks incredible. You just wanted to be sucked into the mythical world of the Everneath, and experience this thrilling adventure between Nikki and Cole. 

    Everneath is one novel that I've been eyeing on for a while. I thought that it would be about vampires or demons, from looking at the cover. Who'd think that it'd take place in an underworld, based on the myths of Persephone?

    So, you must be wondering why I gave this a 3 star rating. Mainly, it's because of the boring at times plot/storyline. I really liked the story in the beginning, a girl returning from the underworld, getting ready to choose between 2 truthful choices? I'm in! But, towards the middle, I became very uninterested. This novel just didn't click with me. Maybe it was the setting I was in at the time I was reading, or my concentration, I don't know, I just disliked the plot.

   These characters to me were plain average. Nikki was an attractive characters, likeable at times, but sometimes choosing the wrong thing, which is always okay. I just really didn't like the guys. Jack and Cole really didn't give me a choice on whose side to be on, they were stubborn and I felt that Cole was using Nikki the whole time, his love for her really didn't show.

   

   So, why is this a 3 star rating? Well, I feel that this book had a message, maybe it was that we have to listen to our hearts, or that we need to choose what we believe in, I liked the fact that this novel really proved something to all of us.

  I don't think that I'm going to spend the money on the next one, to tell you the truth, I really don't care what happens to the characters, sadly. I wish that I did like this novel more, or that it was better. Good, but not pleasing.

Crushed, by Sara Shepard

Title: Crushed

Author: Sara Shepard

Rating: 5/5 stars

Release Date: June 4, 2013

Publisher: HarperTeen

Format: Hardcover

Age Group: 12+

     Got a secret, can you keep it, swear this one you'll save. Better lock it in your pocket, taking this one to the grave. 

     Pretty Little Liars has always been a favourite series of mine, since I started reading the series last summer, the summer that it all began. Aria, Emily, Hanna, Spencer, and even Alison all have a special place in my heart, they're probably 5 of my favourite characters. I feel that I'm connected to them somehow, every time I read their point of views, I just want to be in them forever.

    Now, we have the thirteenth novel, Crushed, which truly warmed my heart. I adored this one! Adding to all of that mystery, romance, thrill, and heartbreaks we have experienced in the past twelve novels, I thought that this one was a job well done, and more than that. Yay!

   Taking place after the whole cruise fiasco, this PLL novel is off to a fantastic start. It left us hanging, so it definitely began right where it was supposed to be, but then leaving us with many more mysteries to solve, but when we think we know the answer, right beside the liars, we eventually find out that we were wrong. Sara Shepard always has something else on her mind that we didn't even start to think about.

   Now, I think that Aria really shone in this novel. Her huge secret from Iceland finally unfolds right here in this novel, and we begin to build up an intensity, wanting to find out what happens, and let me tell you, 'A' really has her/his hands on this one, really tight. Spencer, Hanna, and Emily all did brighten my day, but I felt that Aria really deserved the golden award.

   Wait, additionly to the 5 star rating, there is a tiny little thing that bugs me about this series. When is it ever going to end? I must admit, I do think that Sara Shepard may be exaggerating a little with this series, taking it too far, more mysteries opening. Please finish it soon, give us an answer, continue with the marvelous show, continue with The Lying Game, and create a new series, perhaps for Ravenswood?

  Mysteries unfolding, instincts crawling, we all have to get our hands on this latest PLL novel, December is too long to wait to find out what happens next!

The Last Princess, by Galaxy Craze

Title: The Last Princess

Author: Galaxy Craze

Rating: 5/5 stars

Release Date: May 1, 2012

Publisher: Poppy

Format: Paperback

Age Group: 11+

      Asdfghiklasdfghiklasdfghiklasdfghikl. That's all I have to say.


      Just kidding! Of course not! This is a fantastic review, isn't it? Hah, that's what I thought so.

      The Last Princess was nothing but extraordinary. It's one novel that you won't find similar plots or characters to, because yes, it just is that amazing. Please, please, please read it, you will never in a million years regret it.

      Now, where do we begin... oh yes, the wonderful plot. What can I say, Galaxy Craze has turned my world upside down. Every single moment was one to treasure, you know what they say, one's man junk is another man's treasure! As we quickly, I mean quickly, scrolled through the storyline, we all began to realize that this is an amazing story. Where in the world can you find one similar to this? Where did Galaxy Craze get this idea from, because I sure have no clue.

     I felt that I could read 1000 pages of the same story, and I still wouldn't get bored, this really was a breath of fresh air for me, and for every other reader of this story.

     Princesses, Queens, Princes, and Kings, I am here to serve you your fresh cup of tea, psst, also known as my opinion of the beautiful job done of the characters. Lets start off with the mystical, mysterious Eliza. What an astonishing heroine. She truly made my day. Eliza really showed that heroines could also save the world, and there are some that we have to remember in the stories that we have read. I loved being in the world of hers. Then we have characters like the bad villian, Eliza's brother and sister, Jamie and Mary, and her best friend, and the love interest, whose name I shall not mention. All of these characters have a special part of my heart/mind, even it's a tiny piece, I will always remember them.

    Galaxy Craze has created a fantastic novel that I will remember about for a long time. I can't wait for the sequel!

The DUFF, by Kody Keplinger

Title: The DUFF

Author: Kody Keplinger

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Release Date: September 7, 2010

Publisher: Poppy

Format: Paperback

Age Group: 12+

    The Duff is one of those books that you just want. You really can't help yourself, reading the summary, and falling in love with it instantly. This is one that you'll truly remember forever, and way beyond that. 

     I really thought that I would dislike this plot, maybe it would've been boring, and would just keep repeating the same incidents over and over again. Well, it really beat my expectations! This plot was fast-paced, in fact, wayyy too fast-paced, no bad things said. I just wanted to be in the story, the world felt so real, it's totally modern based, in a world exactly like ours.

   Why does Kody Keplinger have to create such an amazing plot? I know, even I am astonished. It's too good to be true, as they say. Every single moment was one to keepsake in your heart, like a true love's kiss, or whatever your big wish may be. This novel was like a fairytale, taken place in the modern world where dreams may not always come true.

    Ahh.. the characters. These were almost a breath of fresh air. I really liked Bianca. She was fun, quirky, and definitely knew right from wrong, most of the time. Then we had Wesley. Hahah. What a disaster he was. Ugh, for some reason, I found myself hating him, a lot. I think his personality really outshone other male character's in this novel, he was like those dudes who think way too fondly of themselves. He probably thought that he was perfection, which he for sure wasn't. I did enjoy the love-hate relationship between the two, and am looking much forward to be reading Kody's other novels, Shutout and A Midsummer's Nightmare.

       This is the novel that you've all been waiting for, that chick-lit novel that you won't be able to put down after reading the first page. Yes! 

   

    

Born Wicked, by Jessica Spotswood

Title: Born Wicked

Author: Jessica Spotswood

Rating: 4/5 stars

Release Date: January 8, 2013

Publisher: Speak

Format: Paperback

Age Group: 11+

     Bibbiti, boppiti, boo! We have heard of witches and fairies everywhere since we were little children. From the Fairy Godmother in Disney's Cinderella, to the the witches in Wicked, we have seen them all. But, is it true that some may have a curse put on them? Read Born Wicked to find out.

     Born Wicked is one novel that I probably will never forget. From the mystery, to romance, to thrill, we all are in for a great novel for one good sitting. Jessica Spotswood has created a powerful, bright, wicked novel that will cause us wanting more.

     The question is, how good was the plot? Well, that's what I'm here for, to tell you. The plot to me, was utterly mystical. In the beginning, I felt like I was in the mist/fog, fighting my way to get out, in other words, learning about the characters and their pasts. Later on, I found my way out and saw the sunny blue sky, with a few clouds in it. I understood the point of the novel, and its characters. I really enjoyed this book.

     I loved these characters, seriously. There's really no other ones like them. My favourite would probably have to be Tess, I feel that I have a connection with her, she kind of has my personality, and she's the same age as me, 12, (don't tell anyone!) but Maura also happens to love books, Every characters has that special something in them. 

     Having Catherine, "Cate" as the heroine wasn't the best, I felt that I didn't fit in with her, but she's that mysterious type, I think it was good to see things in her eyes. Hopefully, one day, we will get to see the world from other characters' eyes. I'd love to see that happen one day.

    So, overall, I was very pleased with this book, and I think you would be too. It's very much unlike any other novel, so that's good to hear. You feel a relief when you read it, and you'd never doubt, trust me. 

Summary on Goodreads

While He Was Away, by Karen Schreck

Title: While He Was Away

Author: Karen Schreck

Rating: 2.5/5 stars

Release Date: May 1, 2012

Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire

Format: Paperback

Age Group: 12+

    Before I got this, I've been eyeing it for some time, probably because of the beautiful cover. David looks super-cute, and the whole sunset-motorcycle theme really captivates me. So, I got it, but I kind of regreted it, which caused me to again tell you for like the millionth time, don't judge a book by its cover.

   While He Was Away started off as the average chick-lit novel, a girl and her boyfriend doing something cute or cheesy, depends on what you think is "cheesy." Well, for me, I liked the motorcycle riding, it's really unique than what other boys in novels do for their girls. 

   Once David, Penna's boyfriend in the American army, goes back to Iraq, for another what, eighteen weeks, the story became really dull. I think Penna overreacted, she seemed really depressed, I know I would also be, but it's a novel, please make it a little more interesting? 

   Ugh, then when Penna got the job at the restaurant, it became even more boring as she kept thinking about David. Then it got interesting, and then the ending just ruined it for me, even though it was unpredictable. I never thought that it would end the way it did.

    So, Penna. Well Penna, like I said, wasn't the best girly heroine, but I liked her at some points. She knew what she wanted, and really was a caring person. On the other hand, her mother, Linda, was really the one I disliked. If the author never said that she was her mother, I would probably have thought that she was some bratty friend of Penna's. Breaking your leg, and then staying over at some guy's house like a vacation for two weeks, leaving your eighteen year old daughter alone, not so mature, mom. 

    

    Daniel was a good boyfriend, but then you'll realize why not so much in the end. He really disappointed me, and probably many other bookworms! I wish Ravi was the one, he really touched my heart, and was one of the ones I could connect to for some reason. 

   While He Was Away wasn't amazing, but it wasn't disgusting either. You know, somewhere in the middle. I wouldn't recommend it, but oh well..

Here's the summary on Goodreads

-Michelle

Dead Beautiful, by Yvonne Woon

Title: Dead Beautiful

Author: Yvonne Woon

Rating: 5/5 stars

Release Date: September 21, 2010

Publisher: Disney-Hyperion 

Format: Paperback

Age Group: 12+

      I knew it that this one would be amazing, they didn't have it in the bookstores close to where I live, so I ordered it online. The cover just haunts you, convinces you to read this, you will not be left behind, dead beautifully, by the way, who can't resist the title? I know I can't!

    Yvonne Woon has seriously created excellence, all in one novel! The summary just got me hooked, a mystery/romance/paranormalcy, all packed in 400 pages or so? COUNT ME IN! I was left shocked in how awesome this whole plot was, I wanted to be in it forever. I was totally hooked in from the first page, I couldn't resist it!

    When Reneé was introduced, I felt something fishy about her, in other words, I disliked her, but seriously, who dislikes the heroine? Well, fellas, I did... but only in the beginning! Reneé fufilled my expectations and more, she took risks and wanted to catch the case. She was a great heroine.

   

    Then, when Dante was introduced. *screams in agony* What a smokin' hot hottie! (yes, my words might not be too captivating) I just wanted him to teach me Latin! *snickers*

   The background characters and professors really kept me guessing. Eleanor and Nathaniel really made me not regret, and I believe that this novel deserves a high ranking.

    There are a few questions that need some answering, so for that, I am super excited that there is a sequel to this, and that there will be a third novel! 

Check out the summary on Goodreads

-Michelle 

Perfect You

Title: Perfect You

Author: Elizabeth Scott

Rating: 3 stars

Release Date: March 25, 2008

Publisher: Simon Pulse

Format: Paperback Edition

Age Group: 11+

     Elizabeth Scott really good've done better. Come on, what was this? A piece of antique junk? Not that any of her novels are junk, I'm just comparing, in an unusual state of mind. 

     Perfect You wasn't really what I was looking for. I was seeking for that fun, romantic, chick-lit novel that would make my day. This wasn't the one. I felt that this was cheesy, predictable, and that lower average novel for any teen girl.

     Lets start off with the plot. I really didn't understand much about Kate's dad's experience with his vitamin-selling job at the mall, did he get fired from his other job or what, and why she disliked Will in the beginning. It was dull at times, I cannot lie. I think that the plot was the major put-down, I just wanted to read something else. 

   Kate was one of the worst heroines, ever. Like, seriously? She was boring, and she changed personalities, depending on the situation that she was put in. I don't know who she was supposed to be in this novel, what was the point of her. Yeah, yeah, yeah, she realized the true meaning of life in the end, and we all had a cheesy happily ever after, with a few predictable "surprises."

   Then there was Will. Ugh, I just disliked him from the start. I felt that he was using Kate the whole time, she easily flew to him when he apologized. I like the girl who would play hard to get at times, when needed. He was dull, and was that typical small-town boy. Oh, poor you that you lost the girl that you wanted...

    You may be asking, if you have been complaining this much, then why is this a three-star rating? Well, my friends, I feel that it deserves that, and because there was something I liked, but I still can't figure out what it was. Not so fantastic job, Scott, please, please me next time!

When It Happens, by Susane Colasanti

Title: When It Happens

Author: Susane Colasanti

Rating: 5/5 stars

Release Date: May 4, 2006

Publisher: Viking Juvenile

Format: Paperback Edition

Age Group: 13+

   

     Susane Colasanti's novels always make my day better. They are bright, fun, heart-warming, and just beautiful. I just need to read 3 more!

    

     When It Happens is one of those books when you mention the name, you'll remember the cover. I adored this one. It's unbelievable how perfect Colasanti writes, you just want to scream because it's just that good. 

     

     Every book has its ups and downs, right? I feel that this one was perfect, in all ways. The plot blew me away. It was fast-paced, amazing, did I already say amazing, and just ugh, sorry I'm lost for words. 

     At first, I didn't know whose point of view was the one after Sara's, I thought it was Dave's, because if it was, then I would have totally loved him, but I guess he the one that got away, and I fell in love with Tobey, just like I did with Toby from PLL! He was everything that I would want in a guy, especially a rock 'n roll type, hehe.

     I'm obsessed with Susane Colasanti's novels now, I want more!

The Program, by Suzanne Young

Title: The Program
Author: Suzanne Young
Rating: 5 million/5 stars
Release Date: April 30, 2013
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Format: ebook
Age Group: 13+ (just because that's the age when teens are admitted into the Program in the novel)


   I wanted this book from when I saw the cover, who can't resist two people who look madly in love wearing yellow jumpsuits?

    This guy definitely understands what I was going through!

     The Program changed my point of view on life, I'm serious. But, I'll get to my crying/blabbing later. First, let me tell you how much I am obsessed with this book now. I LOVED IT, IT'S TOO GOOD FOR WORDS!!!!!!!!!!!

      I can't believe it that it was that good, it met my expectations and more, providing me, myself, and I further obsessive symptoms than from where I started. 

      I loved how this was divided into three parts, Uncomfortably Numb, The Program, and I Wish You Weren't Here. Every part's words focused on the title, and just made sense, if you know what I mean.

     This plot was perfection, I know I say that for most of my five star rating novels' reviews, but it's the truth, otherwise it wouldn't be a five star book in my opinion. The flashbacks and memories that Sloane brought back for us warmed my heart, seriously. I wanted to live in this world forever, even though it became tragic and very depressing for me at times, and that's most of it, hehe.

     I'd really reccommend not reading this novel if you don't want to bawl up crying for most of it. When the big thing happened, ohh you'd know what I'm talking about when you read it, I wanted the curl up and forget about the world, and just sit there, patting Sloane's back. 

    This book will give you the CAPTIVATED ANGRY DISEASE, with contagious symptoms of:

-furious sections of crying

-an unability to speak to anyone for a few hours

-an unability to think about anything else other than the novel for a few hours or days

-an agony for the next novel

*This novel may cause less or more symptoms, depending on the person.*

    Ohh, I got that disease, trust me. 

    The characters. Gosh, I loved every single one of them! 

    Sloane now happens to be one of my favourite rebellious heroines, ever. She's so confident, rebellious, independent, and a girl that you are going to have a girl crush on, seriously. ;) I loved being in the point of view of Sloane's, she's one girl who's best friend I'd want to be. 

   Gosh, then we have James... This is where I start to fangirl, because I love him that much.

  Stay back, Benedict Cumberbatch, he's mine!

   James is different than most heroes in novels. He's sexy, loving, and would do anything for Sloane, that's the type of guy I adore. When Sloane described her memories of him, I just wanted to be part of it, with him, because I feel that I connect to him, for some reason.

   

  Then we have what I call the extras, Miller, Lacey, the parents, the doctors, Roger (whom I thought we'd get more insight on) and of course, Realm, who I liked, but not as much as James, the hottie. These characters of course made the book better than it would be without them.

   So, this book definitely changed my point of view on life. It taught me that you have to care for your loved ones, because one day, you'll never know what may happen. Sloane is that girl who showed me this insight and who I will remember for, forever because of her advice and words of life.

   I can't wait to read The Treatment, which is going to be juicy. I totally see Sloane (what a perfect name) and James being rebels, and fighting against The Program.

   Oh my god, this is one book to remember.

   Whoa, is this my longest review?

    

What My Girlfriend Doesn't Know, by Sonya Sones

Title: What My Girlfriend Doesn't Know

Author: Sonya Sones

Rating: 5/5 stars

Release Date: May 7, 2013

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Format: Paperback Edition

Age Group: 12+

       First things first. I really didn't think that I'd like the way this was written. Poetry, not my thing. But, I found myself being more captivated because of the style of the writing. It was so interesting, looking at the words used, and counting the syllables and details...

    What My Girlfriend Doesn't Know's cover was the first thing that caught my eye. It looks beautiful! The spring, laying in the grass, romantic picnics, ahh, that's my type of story. Then I decided to read the summary, which sounded cute, and fun. 

    Well, here I am, naming this one of my favourites of this year, because it definitely deserves that award. 

     This novel was hilarious. Okay, maybe I didn't laugh out loud too much, but I loved how fun and cute it was! Everything was fast-paced, especially using the poetry, and I want more. 

     I was super happy that this book's perspective was a male's. You really don't see that these days, the only one I remember was Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children, Jacob, who also was great. Robin was one of those characters who made my heart ache for them. I couldn't believe that he was a freshman this whole entire time! I think that he definitely grew up from where he started off. He was insecure, but turned into a confident, independent man.

     Now we have Sophie. I really liked Sophie in the beginning. She seemed as a perfect match for Robin, like soulmates. But, I thought, and still think that she didn't know what she wanted, and that she was still too young. SPOILER: I wish that Robin would've ended up with Tessa, they were also a perfect match!

     This book is a guilty pleasure, but wait, I so don't feel guilty for reading it. 

  Okay, maybe I feel guilty for not reading it sooner, but anyway, 

GO PICK UP THIS EXTRAORDINARY NOVEL, it will change your thoughts on true love.