Glory O'Brien's History of the Future, by A.S. King Review

Glory O'Brien's History of the Future, by A.S. King

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Contemporary, Feminism

Rating: 3.5/5 stars

Publication: October 14, 2014, by Little Brown Books

Format: Hardcover Edition (borrowed)



Goodreads Summary: Would you try to change the world if you thought it had no future?

Graduating from high school is a time of limitless possibilities — but not for Glory, who has no plan for what's next. Her mother committed suicide when Glory was only four years old, and she’s never stopped wondering if she will eventually go the same way... until a transformative night when she begins to experience an astonishing new power to see a person’s infinite past and future. From ancient ancestors to many generations forward, Glory is bombarded with visions—and what she sees ahead of her is terrifying.

A tyrannical new leader raises an army. Women’s rights disappear. A violent second civil war breaks out. And young girls vanish daily, sold off or interned in camps. Glory makes it her mission to record everything she sees, hoping her notes will somehow make a difference. She may not see a future for herself, but she’ll do everything in her power to make sure this one doesn’t come to pass.

In this masterpiece about freedom, feminism, and destiny, Printz Honor author A.S. King tells the epic story of a girl coping with devastating loss at long last—a girl who has no idea that the future needs her, and that the present needs her even more. 

Review:

"Maybe this meant something. Maybe it didn't. You choose. Maybe I was avoiding death at the same time as I was obsessed with it. Humans are weird, right? We're walking contradictions. We are zone 10 and zone 0 at the same time. We aren't really sure. Or, at  least, I wasn't. But that was a secret."

   For the past few summer months, I've been finding myself reading many ARC reviews of this book, and I've gotten jealous, I have to admit. Everyone's been saying that this book "represents feminism and diversity," that it's one of "the best new modern books of the century." And I've been just sitting here, like a bug on the side of the road, missing out. And I've always been looking for unique. Now, I've finally gotten it.

   I've had a bad relationship with A.S. King's books in the past, or should I say, "book." Ask the Passengers was a catastrophe for me in the past, around 2012 when I first saw the cover and became obsessed. I felt like I made a mistake to pick it up. I actually didn't know that this was a book written by King until I already surpassed 100 pages of this book. I looked at the back cover, and "BAM" I saw ATP. 

      But let me give fate here a round of applause for its excellence at the moment. Thankfully, I didn't realize that earlier or there would've been a slight chance that I'd forget about wanting to read this book. Although a 3.5 star shows okay, pretty good, this was such a relaxing, unique book that made me chill out and read some philosophy told by a young adult author who sure has a ton of smarts on her hands and in her mind.

      What was this book about? Fate and history. Glory O'Brien does something with her best and only friend Ellie that really struck me and I felt like I had to re-read a few paragraphs over and over to really realize that this was the truth—they drank out of a bat. Now, you must be thinking:

         But you shouldn't be thinking that because everything's alright here. The coast is clear. That was mainly the weirdest and most strangest part of the book; the rest was fine. They did it because they're young and reckless and wild, and this was Glory's graduating year, so why not? Especially since she's mostly cooped up in her own little shell and world most of the time. Photography is really all she has and needs, but it keeps her sane. 

          "It would seem from this that I was popular, and with my camera, I was. My camera kept me safe. Kept me in good standing with people who wanted a picture of themselves. Kept me behind the camera rather than in front of it."

        From that moment that Glory drinks from the bat, everything suddenly changes. She begins to see people's pasts, and their futures. Who this person will marry. Who their grandson will grow up to be. What their great-grandfather once accomplished. Who was related to who, secretly. At first, it all seems unreal, obviously, but as she begins to believe, she begins to take notes and tries to find out why is this all happening, and especially, to her. 

      Feminism, diversity, a gorgeous storyline, no romance. This was honestly the most unique thing I've read since... I can't even remember. A.S. King stunned me, and it was definitely for the good. I mean, where else can I read a story that balances everything around me, and really gets me to think about the truth behind everything and life itself? Nowhere, I tell you, except in the most wildest and unexpected moments. Okay, now I sound too philosophic myself, hehe.

       Surprising to admit, this book has a little science-fiction in it. I mean, her visions tell it all. A Second US Civil War? This sounds too much like The Hunger Games and Panem, if you ask me. Dystopia is definitely a key, but it stayed far behind the mist, in the shadows, and you only could realize it if you thought about it, that's all.

        What was lacking in this situation was depth. It was unique and fluffy. I wanted sorrowing and feels. The book felt like it was flying on the surface of things. We didn't get barely any questions answered, and we were sitting in the middle of "nowhere" for half of the time. What was the main idea of this novel? I don't really recall to know or understand. 

       Glory O'Brien is honestly a character and protagonist that I know I will remember for ages. Her story did lack depth, but at the same time I was able to understand her situation and why she did what she did. She had a mix of all kinds of different people in her, and that just made her who she was. I was happy that for once we didn't have a character who didn't know who they were or where they belonged.

        As for the romance? There wasn't any except for Ellie's scenes. *cheers* This focused on the beauty of unique YA. Outstanding and breathless.

YOLO by Lauren Myracle Review

YOLO (Internet Girls #4), by Lauren Myracle

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Chick-lit, Contemporary, Romance

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Publication: August 26, 2014, by Amulet Books

Format: Hardcover Edition (borrowed)





Goodreads Summary: Through texts and messages, the mega-bestselling, beloved Internet Girls series followed the ups and downs of school for three very different, very close friends. Now it’s freshman year of college for the winsome threesome, and *everything* is different. For one, the best friends are facing their first semester apart. Way, way apart. Maddie’s in California, Zoe’s in Ohio, and Angela’s back in Georgia. And it’s not just the girls who are separated. Zoe’s worried that Doug wants to break up now that they’re at different schools, and Maddie’s boyfriend, Ian, is on the other side of the country.In the face of change and diverging paths, Maddie’s got a plan to keep the friends close, and it involves embracing the present, making memories, and . . . roller derby! Using of-the-moment technology, Lauren Myracle brings her groundbreaking series into the brave new virtual world of texting and tweets.

Review:

" mad maddie: what do you mean, why?

  mad maddie: what's the point of torturing ourselves by talking about something we can't have?

  SnowAngel: :/

  SnowAngel: um, because sharing your feelings would make you feel better? 

  mad maddie: ohhhh

  mad maddie: and what wld I say? that I wish I'd gone to UGA instead of Santa Cruz so that we cld hold hands and walk to class together and crawl into the same bed every night? that California is so much farther away than I thought? that without him, I feel like I'm dying inside? "

    Maddie, Angela, and Zoe have been there for me and with me since I was young. Pre-teen age, actually. I first read TTYL when I was 10. Sure, it was a little too mature for me at the time, but the actuality of reading a book in text format seemed so interesting and awesome. That was before. Now, the text format doesn't matter. It's more than that. It's their stories, their friendship, their believing. Yeah, that sounds cheesy, but that's what it did for me, and I'm so thankful for their teaching and story. 

    It's been many years since I finished the supposedly "last book," L8R, G8R, and I would never think that a new book would be released in this series. Finding this out, I wanted YOLO more than anything—to experience and read about what happened later, and to fall asleep knowing the fact that everything turned out okay in the end and that my favourite trio is happy. 

     You're probably thinking: What could three girls be texting about in 200 pages? Sure, it's not many pages and this looks like a rather quick read, but in fact, I took my time reading it because I know that I won't get to enjoy their stories anymore except if I re-read them, which I probably will in the future. Lauren Myracle has written 200 pages of happiness, 200 pages of amazingness, 200 pages of believable friendship that makes you wish that you can experience what they experienced with each other. 

      The story begins with the threesome apart. Angela's in Georgia, living in a dorm with her new sorority sisters. Maddie's in Santa Cruz living in a dorm full of girls who all knew each other in high schools and are practically besties. And Zoe? Zoe's in Ohio, two hours away from her boyfriend, Doug, in a single dorm. As much as they wish they could be together, they're where they are for separate reasons, and when Maddie tries to get the other two to agree to a pact about living your life (because YOLO), they're in. At the same time, they all have their own struggles and are beginning to realize what they really want to do in life and how much they really need each other.

      Looking back to their attitudes and personalities back in the first book, the character-developments have been crazy. 

       That's ^ what I was like when meeting them for the first time in this book. Sure, the trio still have their own quirks and weird stuff, but in the end, they've all went beyond their personal boundaries. High-five to my favourite chicks!

       Zoe: As for who went the craziest in personality, Zoe comes to mind. Through the beginning of this book to the middle, I hated her. She's too goody and too whiny and doesn't let others do what they want. But after the incident with Doug, she changed, and I'm actually happy to say for the better. She let loose, but in good ways. Her usual two-faced self went to one good face. 

      Maddie: Man, has she changed. For most of the book, our crazy-partying Mads has turned into a depressed girl. And, everyone sensed it, including Zoe and Angela. Maddie has always been my favourite character out of the three, and I hated to see that the whole college-experience was bringing her down. Man, but what awesome friends she has!

    Angela: Angela? Partier? NOO! Yeah, she was. This girl gave me so many LOL moments—she stunned me, as usual. Total favourite. She quirked me up, hehe.

      Lauren Myracle always creates a bumpy ride for us with real-life problems, but her books are so fun. As an ending to a fabulous series that has taught me a lot and has given me a new perspective on friendship in literature, it was amazing. I basically couldn't have asked for anything better, except a stronger beginning. Fab!

Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas Review: IDEALLY AWESOME.

Heir of Fire (Throne of Glass #3), by Sarah J. Maas

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, High Fantasy, Romance, Action

Rating: 4/5 stars

Publication: September 2, 2014, by Bloomsbury USA Childrens

Format: Hardcover Edition




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

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

Review:

Beware of spoilers below. Just warning ya. ;)

"It was like being underwater again. Like charging into Nehemia's room and finding that beautiful body mutilated on the bed. Like seeing Galan Ashryver, beloved and brave, riding off into the sunset to the cheers of his people."

WOW. WOW. WOW. I'm sitting here, speechless and unable to put my thoughts together after this one hell of a thrill-ride. *takes 5 deep breaths* I don't know what to say, think, act, or be after reading this book. 600 pages of awesomeness? Yes, you've got it right here.

As you may or may not have known, this series has SO MANY FANS. There's only a few authors who can grab a reader and intrigue them so easily, and that's what Sarah J. Maas simply does to me, and to thousands of other people. Almost every single review I've read on a book from this series is strictly a rave and fangirled. 4-5 stars, usually. Thankfully I began reading this series a little late, so the Crown of Midnight cliffhanger and book-hangover was worth it to wait for another couple of weeks. But now, I'm dying here. *joins the club of crying, bawling, and angry people*

Eh. I can't believe it's all over—for now, at least. I spent only a few hours tearing through this novel (at once in one sitting) because I loved it too much. I felt that Sarah's writing is so coincidental (in a good way) and she purposely creates such horrifying cliffhangers because she wants us to be in mutual pain. Either way, I still love and heart you, Sarah, Celaena, Chaol, Dorian, and Rowan. :)

So really, *thinks hard* where does this book began. As Part One, Heir of Ash comes into, Celaena is now at her destination, Wendlyn. Crown of Midnight left off with a crazy cliffhanger and suspenseful ending that we couldn't let go, and we're fast-forwarded into a little off into the future from the past's events. This chick, as we'd expect her to be, has been alone, but strong during this time although the truth behind her and her destiny is boggling her mind to this day. Once she arrives, she meets Rowan, fae prince and warrior, and he hates her immediately. The rumours behind her "assassin past" lies beneath her, and there are some people who know, which can possibly change everything. 

Although romance wasn't a large aspect of this book, Maas of course had to add it in because we all love Chaol, Dorian, and now ROWAN. Damn. Who'd expect another bunch of awesome characters to be added in?

"For the better part of half an hour, the creatures fought in the rainy dark, until those wretched shrieks, turned victorious, and the unearthly roars sounded no more. Celaena and Rowan held tight to each other and did not dare close their eyes for the entirety of the night."

Okay. I ship them a little, but I'm still Team CHAOL AND DORIAN. No doubt about it. But finally, Celaena has someone who is so similar and alike to her that she can confide and confess anything to them without some secrets and love mysteries. There were the romance moments between them, though, but I found that it didn't change anything between her and the other men.

Just like the other books, the feels came back. And they hit me HARD. I have to admit that I wasn't crying or anything, but I went through such jittery mood swings and anger and frustration and basically all the feels that you have been hit with in the previous books times TEN. 

So that does make me think... *twirls moustache* Do feels get me to give the book a higher rating? Absolutely, and the feels in this one probably gave this book a point five better as well.

I felt like I was on fire for more than half of the time while reading this. I DESERVED THE HEIR. *laughs to self* Get it, heir of fire? I'm on fire? xD

This book was huge, no lies. Not everyone can go through a 600-paged book so easily, but I just had to because my love for this series is undying. It almost had everything I was looking for from a sequel to CoM. Character-development—ten thousand checkmarks, perfect plot—almost, action—YESYESYES!

Sarah introduced us to two main new characters, with a couple side ones. But really, both Rowan and Manon has their own POVs as well as Celaena and Chaol. Rowan was kick-ass, but sweet and sympathetic at the same time. He suited Celaena perfectly, but I cannot see anything possibly more than just a strong bond and friendship. *twiddles fingers together* Manon was a little too sensible, but you know, she added some sass into the novel—not that we didn't have enough of it beforehand. 

Celaena was Celaena—perfection and my role model, Chaol was hot, steamy, and wanting, but I wish we had more Dorian. Damn, he was only mentioned a few times, and there were no large scenes incorporated with him. Does this mean that there will never be anything between him and Celaena?

"Aedion began roaring—roaring and cursing at the king, thrashing against his chains, but the guards hauled him away, and Chaol was too stunned to do anything other than watch the rest of Sorscha's body topple to the ground. And then Dorian, still screaming, was scrambling through the blood toward it—toward her head, as if he could put it back. As if he could piece her together."

I think my love for Dorian is crazy and there's a tiny chance that I might love him more than I adore Chaol, and maybe that's why this went to a four star rating? 

In the end, this series is #1 and beyond for me. Sarah J. Maas is my favourite author—she stuns me during every chapter, page, sentence, and word that she writes. I guess that's the magic of writing a book that makes you want to fight for a heir of fire. 

We Are The Goldens, by Dana Reinhardt

We Are The Goldens, by Dana Reinhardt

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Contemporary, Romance, Mystery

Rating: 4/5 stars

Publication: May 27, 2014, by Wendy Lamb Books

Format: Hardcover Edition (Borrowed)





Goodreads Summary: Nell knows a secret about her perfect, beautiful sister Layla. If she tells, it could blow their world apart.

When Nell and Layla were little, Nell used to call them Nellayla. Because to Nell, there was no difference between where she started and her adored big sister ended. They're a unit; divorce made them rely on each other early on, so when one pulls away, what is the other to do? But now, Nell's a freshman in high school and Layla is changing, secretive. And then Nell discovers why. Layla is involved with one of their teachers. And even though Nell tries to support Layla, to understand that she's happy and in love, Nell struggles with her true feelings: it's wrong, and she must do something about it.

Review: 

  "I wanted to twinkle underwater like the lights of the city."

   This was one of mine and even Buzzfeed's most anticipated books of 2014. When I found it at the library a few weeks after it was published on May 27, I ran straight for it and grabbed it with my all-mighty strength. (LOL, yeah right.)

    After reading, I'm very glad that I've decided to read it. It was a novel of change, change from all of the mainstream books that are out there. This was a very well-written book. It's not the type that you'll want to re-read (at least I don't think so) but it's a pretty fun read that's sure to get you enticed in reading more from this splendid author.

     I just wanted to let you know that this isn't your average fluffy contemporary read. We Are the Goldens is more of a darker contemporary read. In some ways, it has the aspects of those that deal with abuse and rape (especially because how the characters were feeling at times, *cough*Layla*cough.* We usually never get those type of books in the stores. 

      The concept of this book was very well planned out. The author made the characters deal with very harsh problems that really affected them. A very naughty teacher, signs of depression, obsession, this book was full of everything.

       Second-person narratives aren't my favourite. I wasn't really glad that this book was written that way, Nell speaking to Layla through diary entries/letters/whatever it was, but we all have our favourite ways of books being written. With that said, the plot was kind of dull as well at times. 

        I don't know. Did some people think that this book was a roller coaster? Because for me, it wasn't. 

         For some people, I could see why they gave it a 5 star rating or a 4.5 one. This book stood out for some people because they have different tastes in drama contemporaries. For this book, it basically matters on what you like the whole time. The story was written extremely well, yes, but the plot at times didn't seem to get anywhere. There were no plot twists until the end and I found that this was dragging to much onto Nell's side when her sister is the main story here. The romance between Nell and Felix in the end just shouldn't have been added. We all know that we liked them JUST as friends! What was this, "Friends With Benefits?" 

         My utterly most favourite thing about this book was the relationships and friendships. The author absolutely made this the most BRILLIANT part of the book. She just mastered an A+ in friendship here. 

         The way Nell looked up to Layla really shows the truth behind the way most little siblings look up to the oldest ones. I'm the oldest sibling, and this book really gave us an idea from the minds of the youngsters. 

         I liked Nell, a lot. She was very independent and smart. In fact, she was more wiser and smarter than her bitch of a sister, let me tell you that. I'm not going to begin ranting on why I hate Layla, but by the end of the book, you'll realize that she was a s*ut and just went in the way of everything and messed everything up for everyone. She really showed that life isn't fair. 

       The parent-child relationships in this book was wonderful. For once, we had a wrecked-but-beautiful family over here, which rarely occurs in books. In a lot of novels, when the protagonist is going through something, the parent isn't even spoken of! 

          

         Overall, this book had its flaws and imperfections and all, but it was worth it to read without any doubts. If you liked anything by Carol Lynch Williams, then this will be a much-lighter breeze for you.

Past Perfect, by Leila Sales

Past Perfect, by Leila Sales

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Romance, Chick-lit, Contemporary

Rating: 4/5 stars

Publication: October 4, 2011, by Simon Pulse

Format: Hardcover Edition (Borrowed)






Goodreads Summary: All Chelsea wants to do this summer is hang out with her best friend, hone her talents as an ice cream connoisseur, and finally get over Ezra, the boy who broke her heart. But when Chelsea shows up for her summer job at Essex Historical Colonial Village (yes, really), it turns out Ezra’s working there too. Which makes moving on and forgetting Ezra a lot more complicated…even when Chelsea starts falling for someone new. 

Maybe Chelsea should have known better than to think that a historical reenactment village could help her escape her past. But with Ezra all too present, and her new crush seeming all too off limits, all Chelsea knows is that she’s got a lot to figure out about love. Because those who don’t learn from the past are doomed to repeat it…

Review:

   There always are those type of books that have no point to them (plotless, basically) but can be so well-written and good and fun. This was one of those cases. Past Perfect was something witty and sweet, almost bittersweet at the same time. This book didn't have a main idea to it except the fact that Chelsea's trying to fall in love again after the nasty breakup with her ex, Ezra. 

    Chelsea has worked at Essex Historical Colonial Village for many years. It has been her summer job since she could remember, and her history-crazed parents are the ones who got her into it. It's where she has fun and gets to make new friends--just like a camp. Chelsea wants to work at the mall, but when her best friend Fiona decides to come and work at the Village, Chelsea decides to spend the summer before senior year at the place where she spent a lot of her childhood in. She's also trying to forget about her ex, Ezra, right until she sees him at the employee orientation. Well, there's no backing out now. There's a reenactment of a war going on between Colonial and the Civil War place down the road, and well, Chelsea ends up falling in love with a soldier from the other side, which is totally off-limits. How is she supposed to love and forget at the same time?

      At first, the fact that this was about historical reenactment sites kind of dragged me away from reading this book. But it had a cutesy-summer effect that it had going off on me, especially because of the gorgeous cover (that really didn't make sense with the novel), so I ended up being intrigued and decided to read it before I got to Leila's This Song Will Save Your Life. Historical reenactments are actually fun and hilarious at the same time! Leila Sales has done something with a YA contemporary-romance novel that no other author has ever done before. She has just put a twist and awesome in con-rom. So yes, the concept of this book was awesome. 

       

      This book was so much fun to read! It's a very fast-paced read and it's kind of addicting. You feel some suspense that just pulls you to read and figure out what'll happen in the end. Even from reading the summary, you just need to know what will happen next. The plot had its moments where it got a little boring and out of place, though. I felt like something large was missing from this book, like a piece from a pizza was ripped out and given it to the president. 

        All of the characters were awesome. Chelsea was so friggin' hilarious. I laughed at everything she said, and at the same time, she was very intelligent with the way she lived life. There's not many people like her, let me tell you. She was a smart protagonist who showed and gave us her awesomeness. I loved her so much with Dan! I feel an OTP forming! *sizzles* Fiona was an awesome bestie who really cared and gave good advice... Most of the time.

        The romance was cute, and it was more troubled than it looked like. Dan had his problems, and by the end, Chelsea realized that, which was good. Couples have to understand each other to love each other, right? It was the perfect summer romance that we've all been waiting for. 

        The ending of this book wasn't very developed, but it was okay. It was a little predictable, but a good end to the book. This was a great funny standalone that totally kicks it off for me with Leila Sales! I can't wait to read more of her books!

Black City, by Elizabeth Richards

Black City (Black City #1), by Elizabeth Richards

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Romance, Dystopian, Vampires, Paranormal/Supernatural, Fantasy

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Publication: November 13, 2012, by G.P. Putnam's Son BYR

Format: Hardcover Edition (Borrowed)


Goodreads Summary: A dark and tender post-apocalyptic love story set in the aftermath of a bloody war.

In a city where humans and Darklings are now separated by a high wall and tensions between the two races still simmer after a terrible war, sixteen-year-old Ash Fisher, a half-blood Darkling, and Natalie Buchanan, a human and the daughter of the Emissary, meet and do the unthinkable—they fall in love. Bonded by a mysterious connection that causes Ash’s long-dormant heart to beat, Ash and Natalie first deny and then struggle to fight their forbidden feelings for each other, knowing if they’re caught, they’ll be executed—but their feelings are too strong.

When Ash and Natalie then find themselves at the center of a deadly conspiracy that threatens to pull the humans and Darklings back into war, they must make hard choices that could result in both their deaths.

Review:

  "I love you," he says. "I love the way you bite your bottom lip when you're nervous. I love the annoying way you rattle mints against your teeth when you eat them. I love how brave you are. Those are the reasons I love you, Natalie, not because you have a Darkling heart." 

    I'm certainly not a big fan of fantasy novels. And when I do catch one that sounds very interesting, I become very picky when getting them. They have to meet my requirements to be good. For a book with these genres, I need to make sure that reviewers have stated that this book has been written greatly. And this book has received a 3.78 rating on Goodreads, so I was in from the start. Plus, it's been raved about for a while now since its release in late 2012.

     This book was so amazing. After reading it, I feel like I was sprinkled with a bucket of pixie dust because it has given me everything I want in a fantasy/paranormal read. Ahh, the awesome feels that these books give you. *dreams away*

         One of the reasons that I picked up this beauty was because of that gorgeous cover. And after reading, I feel like that cover suited the book so much because of its imperfections. It doesn't just show a rose sitting there-- it's a rose breaking up into pieces, just like how Ash was slowly breaking up into someone new by the end of this book. Yes, I have made a guess here. :)

         It actually is very difficult to guess what the main concept and idea of this book was. Elizabeth Richards focused a lot on the romance and relationship between Ash and Natalie, and I am here to admit that the relationship that these two had was so alluring and prepossessing that I care to classify them as one of the best couples in YA literature. From the moment the two set eyes on each other in the end of the first chapter, I knew that Richards would take a YA paranormal romance into a whole other dimension, and she did it. The romance was such a big part of this book and it was amazing. The sacrifices taken, the choices made, the length of time that the two were without each other... It was just so amazing to see and visualize.

         Elizabeth Richards's characters were invincible comparing to others. They felt so real, and creating POVs from Ash and Natalie's minds was just an astonishing idea, coming from the way they spoke to us in their real voices. These two characters were so unconquerable and went above and beyond my expectations for a good YA couple. When reading their POVs, you feel like you're getting sucked into the world that they live in, and what's better than experiencing the whole YA novel journey the way we all wish it to be?

         

       The idea of this book was like no other. I usually loathe the concept and mention of vampires because it has taken such a craze in YA books that it's totally classified as "above-mainstream" now, but Elizabeth Richards knew that, and she took vampires in a whole other direction. (She takes everything in her books to a whole 'nother level, bro.) Instead of vampires, these were darklings, abnormal creatures living in a dystopian world where they're not treated as equals. 

        You see? Even the world-building was great. This was a dystopia novel that had a world that was for once diverse, unequal and beautiful at the same time, although Ash got in trouble a lot with the government, haha. (REBELS RULE, THOUGH.)

       When starting this book, I was addicted. I made it to page 150 with no regrets and it stayed at a 4 star rating. From page 150-250, I was a little bored because there wasn't much going on. The romance between Ash and Natalie still didn't really intensify yet (which was good because I don't want insta-love), but there weren't many events happening. It was slow-paced at the time, but I kept going because I loved everything else. Then from there, I went from eh to absolutely fangirling every second. But the plot was wonderfully established, and Richards's writing was very strong and detailed, just the way we all like it.

       The ending really had me going mad. I seriously thought that Ash... Well never mind. You'll just have to read it and see. But I was fearing for my life, but then everything ended up okay with him and then another problem occurred. War is on again, and things are about to get even crazier. We're kind of left at a major cliffhanger and I really want to see what's going happen with everyone. 

           I have Phoenix, the sequel, already, but I have so many TBR reads in my pile so that's going to have to hold off for a few weeks. But I'm aching, seriously aching for it! This book was life-changing and astronomically amazing. Pick it up to see for yourselves. :)

And We Stay, by Jenny Hubbard

And We Stay, by Jenny Hubbard

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Contemporary, Romance

Rating: 4/5 stars

Publication: January 28, 2014, by Delacorte Press

Format: Hardcover Edition (borrowed)







Goodreads Summary: When high school senior Paul Wagoner walks into his school library with a stolen gun, he threatens his girlfriend Emily Beam, then takes his own life. In the wake of the tragedy, an angry and guilt-ridden Emily is shipped off to boarding school in Amherst, Massachusetts, where she encounters a ghostly presence who shares her name. The spirit of Emily Dickinson and two quirky girls offer helping hands, but it is up to Emily to heal her own damaged self.

This inventive story, told in verse and in prose, paints the aftermath of tragedy as a landscape where there is good behind the bad, hope inside the despair, and springtime under the snow.

Review:

"This is where her story

begins and ends. This is where

her story ends and begins.

In her story, the telling 

is not linear. The telling 

is a circle, the shape of earth."

  Poetry is rarely incorporated with a book, but when it is, it's truly something worth reading for. I, in fact, adore poetry. Some people believe that the message is unclear, or it's confusing, but I see the meaning like it's crystal clear. Having the author get the protagonist of this book, Emily, to have a love for poetry is beautiful. For Emily, poetry was her only way to escape the world, to escape the troubles that she went through not too long ago. This is a stunningly written book, and poetry is just one part of it, truly. 

   This is written in a third-person narrative, which usually confuses me. Coming from this story, I was okay because the story was very powerful and imperfect, which in Emily's case, is capable of handling. Emily is sent to a boarding school in Amherst, Massachusetts, after the wakening of the tragedy that she went through not too long ago--Emily got pregnant with her boyfriend, Paul. She breaks up with him and two days later, Paul pulls up a gun at Emily, and takes his own life. Emily was left damaged, and her parents believed that boarding school will keep her away from the memories that broke her, and the ones that saved her.

    If I were you, I'd seriously take a note to self to keep in mind: this is a very depressing read. 

      This is not a bright, cheerful read. I got really sad after finishing this book. It's a story that you really need to think deeply about and to understand it, you'll need to read between the lines. Powerful stories like this are always amazing and are the hardest ones to rave and talk about because the message is so glorious and moving.

       So yes, the concept of this book was beautiful. It had a mix of everything: romance, boarding-school, suicide, depression, poetry, and death. Jenny Hubbard has just done it right. I recommend this book to lovers of contemporary books and ones who are ready to get out of their comfort zone. Also, if you've read Laurie Halse Anderson's Speak, go for this one. It's a little more milder, but totally great.

        The only thing that upset me with this book was the fact that it didn't really go anywhere. We can tell that there's a strong idea and message being pushed out into the reader, but I didn't see the book being moving. The message was, but the plot wasn't. There weren't any plot twists or moment when we just wanted to scream at the author for making something horrible happen. It was very slow and the book was just showing Emily's recovery. It was fast-paced (especially since the book is fairly short) but I wanted events.

         Like I said above, I love the fact that this deals with poetry. Emily has really inspired me to read more poetry, and especially from Emily Dickinson. 

         "If I read a book and it makes my whole body so cold no fire can ever warm me, I know that is poetry." -Emily Dickinson

          Yeah, that really describes Emily's poetry. Emily was such a bold, special, amazing protagonist. I felt so much sympathy for her because of everything what happened; she was a gorgeous person with an unique personality and didn't deserve everything. And after everything what had happened, she was still broken inside and out. 

          But my favourite character of them all was K.A. This girl was unbelievable. She was so kick-ass and daring. She truly was Emily's best friend by the end, and that meant a lot to me because we rarely see book friendships. :)

           This book was fabulous, special. It's one that you'll never hear about ever. It's something unique and amazing. I recommend it 100%, despite the disadvantage.

The Boy on the Bridge, by Natalie Standiford

The Boy on the Bridge, by Natalie Standiford

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Contemporary, Romance

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Publication: July 30, 2013, by Scholastic Press

Format: Hardcover Edition (borrowed)






Goodreads Summary: A new breathtaking novel from Natalie Standiford about love and trust during the Cold War.

Laura Reid goes to Leningrad for a semester abroad as Cold War paranoia is peaking in 1982. She meets a young Russian artist named Alexei and soon, with Alexei as her guide, Laura immerses herself in the real Russia--a crazy world of wild parties, black-market books and music, and smuggled letters to dissidents. She must keep the relationship secret; associating with Americans is dangerous for Alexei, and if caught, Laura could be sent home and Alexei put under surveillance or worse. At the same time, she's been warned that Soviets often latch onto Americans in hopes of marrying them and thus escaping to the United States. But she knows Alexei loves her. Right?

As June approaches--when Laura must return to the United States--Alexei asks Laura to marry him. She's only nineteen and doesn't think she's ready to settle down. But what if Alexei is the love of her life? How can she leave him behind? If she has a chance to change his life, to rescue him from misery, shouldn't she take it?

Review:

  After reading Natalie's Confessions of the Sullivan Sisters, I was absolutely ready for more from this upcoming unstoppable author. Natalie actually did have the opportunity to spend a year or so in Russia for college, just like Laura here did, and it seriously is an amazing experience, at least from what I can imagine and what we read about in this book. The only thing that questioned me was-- there wasn't really any huge signs of the Cold War occurring. Yes, there were some uncertainties going on, especially between men and women, but I didn't see any significant war going on.

   Laura is in Russia for college for six months, January-June. She expects a quiet year in the country where she will learn the language and the culture more. Little does she know that she will fall in love with a young artist and he will introduce her into a new world of difference and unusual events. Alexei does love her, he's even said it, and Laura loves him back and the thought of going back home to America just haunts her, because all she needs is to be with Alexei forever. 

    The plot sounds very simple. And it is in a way. It's a very light quick read, but inside, there's so much going on and so much importance and love and friendship between the protagonists. Everything is very complex and is full of plot twists and all throughout I was never bored once. Standiford just created some sort of wonderful magic.

     The biggest idea in this book was love, and in fact true love. Laura and Alexei's love was unbelievable and so beautiful that it's just too awesome for words. You will be addicted to them from the start.

      The only flaw and con was LAURA. 

       This chick made the worst decisions at the worst time and was so stupid to even talk about. She was immature and weird and overly attached to Alexei. He's all she thought and thought and did I mention thought about? I don't think I wanted to be him...

        "He removed his hands from her shoulders with effort, as if resisting a great magnetic force. He turned and walked away to the metro. She stood on the edge of the bridge for a long time, watching him."

         Wow, what a sight to look at. Imagine her sitting there for hours, imagining that he's still walking away. x)

          Alexei was just amazing beyond words. He was so hot and perfect and the most amazing guy. I loved him to death despite his deep dirty secrets.

           Overall, this book was beautiful. I loved it so much and it was one of the best contemporaries I've read this year! <3 p="">