Paranormal Duo Reviews #1: Dance of Shadows and The Edge of Nowhere

Dance of Shadows (Dance of Shadows #1), by Yelena Black
Published On: February 12, 2013, by Bloomsbury USA
Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Contemporary, Romance, Fantasy
Pages: 469
Format: Hardcover
Source: Borrowed
Rating: ½

Dancing with someone is an act of trust. Elegant and intimate; you're close enough to kiss, close enough to feel your partner's heartbeat. But for Vanessa, dance is deadly–and she must be very careful who she trusts . . .
Vanessa Adler attends an elite ballet school – the same one her older sister, Margaret, attended before she disappeared. Vanessa feels she can never live up to her sister's shining reputation. But Vanessa, with her glorious red hair and fair skin, has a kind of power when she dances–she loses herself in the music, breathes different air, and the world around her turns to flames… 
Soon she attracts the attention of three men: gorgeous Zep, mysterious Justin, and the great, enigmatic choreographer Josef Zhalkovsky. When Josef asks Vanessa to dance the lead in the Firebird, she has little idea of the danger that lies ahead – and the burning forces about to be unleashed…

 

Weird as I am, I have an obsession with ballet-related books. And I’m proud, PEOPLE. Dance of Shadows was absolutely fantastic, and I NEED THE SEQUEL as soon as possible. Bloomsbury, I suggest that you send me an ARC way in advance, or you’ll be seeing many rants sent to your office. *chuckles*

Again, as I usually state in my reviews, I expected worse. Okay okay, the reviews on this were mostly positive and happy and all, but something in my guts urged me to not expect good stuff. Hey—at least I was surprised. 

First, can we just take a look at this gorgeous cover first? I’m still tearing up of its beauty. And another amazing thing is that it really goes with the title and the book and its concept. It all fit together, like a puzzle. As you think about it and how the book went on with my liking, this deserves an Oscar for excellence. People, if I honestly knew that this book came out sooner, I WOULD’VE FOUND OUT ABOUT ITS BEAUTY SOONER AS WELL. For that matter, I’m providing all of my viewers with a free copy of this book… If I won the lottery. The plot was perfect, and the romance was so gorgeous. I was like on a vacation getaway to my favourite place in the world while reading—bookish paradise.

I always feel like those ballet-dance books are so deep. Like, the protagonists and characters are usually broken to the bone, unable to deal with much thoughts and situations, and dancing is their only way out of it. It’s basically like me with reading—except I’m not that lost and broken as Vanessa, our protagonist here, was. How would you feel if your sister was lost and abandoned somewhere and there’s no sign of her when you reach the stage of going to the place where she was last seen?

My theory is that it has something to do with paranormalcy and a lot of the figurative things that were mentioned throughout the book. Maybe it also has to do with Vanessa’s love interest, Zep, since he was kind of creepy and absurd. But first, you don't even know what this is half about. 

The Firebird dance? New York Ballet Academy? Sure, you’ve never heard of these things. I’m actually not even sure if they exist in reality. Per se, Vanessa has always had a connection to dancing, but her parents don't know if it’s the right decision for her to keep on going with her dreams as her older sister, Margaret, flew from that passion and disappeared into the unknown world that’s out there. As Vanessa would like to search for her sister and as she thinks that she’s still somewhere in New York, she applies to join an elite ballet academy where rivalry is key and jealousy and weird things are all around her. She gets in, and finds that the world that she’s now joined in with—jealousy and dancing isn’t as easy as it looks. And then she gets the lead role for the Firebird, a dance that may attract things other than people’s attention… but mysterious powers.

This was easily one of the most absurd books that I’ve read to date. I mean, adding paranormal things mixed in with dancing? It didn't sound like a very strong idea in my opinion, but it was just so devouring from the minute I stepped into this dancer world. It was so strong and gave me the chills at the end of every chapter. There were so many eye-widening moments and plot twists.

Not to gush too much or anything, but this story was magnificent, nothing else said. I loved the whole plot, from beginning to end, and as well as the characters. It did have a mix of some Gossip Girl and Private, in it, but picture magic and possession into that as well. Stir that in, and there you’ll have this book. Make sure to add in some shadows as well. And of course, some screams and goosebumps.

Is it weird to say that I have a fetish for some book concepts? Like take for example, psychological thrillers. Damn, I’ve been reading a ton of those recently and I just can’t have enough. And then there are those ballerina ones, like Bunheads. I guess I just love to read from a professional and dedicated dancer’s point of view—reading how much dancing means to them and how they feel when they're able to do such a thing. Their flexibility also gets me a teensy bit envious at times, too. But really, it’s so easy to picture the dances that they do and how majestic they probably look when they’re doing their most favourite thing in the world. And the author added a perfect great deal of paranormal and supernatural things in to kick this out of the truest-contemporary genre.

You say that you don't like these kinds of books?

GET OUT. Okay, not literally, but really you should. This was a fantastic read. 

So over here, we had a kick-ass protagonist who really didn’t need no man named Vanessa. First things first—she’s the realest. She dropped things and let the whole world feel it, she let them feel it. (Okay, she’s fancy as well.) Even though she did see some sparks between herself and Zep, it’s not like she ran after him and licked his ass. Instead, he did that to her and it was creepy. 

From the moment we met Zep, I thought he was a creeper and that something was wrong with him. Turns out, my theory sure was correct but Vanessa didn't realize it, instead Justin had to let her know. I’m sorry, but Justin’s the good guy here and I fell for him, instead of Zep. Justin was like the caregiver, the guy who watched out for the girl he loved from the start. Did Zep really care? He was a loser and a fake. I just hope that they won’t together in the sequel or else my mind will rip apart. He was the reason why I deducted a .5 from the rating. I couldn’t stand him and his ugliness.

The romance? It was all nasty and gross as well. LIKE MY SHIP HASN’T GONE OFF YET AND I’M HOPING THAT VANESSA WILL REALIZE IT AND MAKE IT HAPPEN. Am I the only one who sees “Jusnessa” happening in the nearby future? Puhleeze?

I’m punching myself as I’m seeing all of these negative reviews all over the place—because it’s just not meant to happen. The cover’s gorgeous, the protagonist and her voice is perfect, the plot was unravelling and heartbreaking, and there were thousands of plot twists. WHY ART THOU SO RUDE? I WANT MORRREEE.

The Edge of Nowhere (Saratoga Woods #1), by Elizabeth George
Published On: September 4, 2012, by Viking Juvenile
Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Contemporary, Paranormal
Pages: 448
Format: Hardcover
Source: Borrowed
Rating: ½

The first young adult book by a #1 New York Times bestselling author
Whidbey Island may be only a ferry ride from Seattle, but it's a world apart. When Becca King arrives there, she doesn't suspect the island will become her home for the next four years. Put at risk by her ability to hear "whispers"--the thoughts of others--Becca is on the run from her stepfather, whose criminal activities she has discovered. Stranded and alone, Becca is soon befriended by Derric, a Ugandon orphan adopted by a local family; Seth, a kindhearted musician and high school dropout; Debbie, a recovering alcoholic who takes her in; and Diana, with whom Becca shares a mysterious psychic connection.
This compelling coming-of-age story, the first of an ongoing sequence of books set on Whidbey Island, has elements of mystery, the paranormal, and romance. Elizabeth George, bestselling author of the Inspector Lynley crime novels, brings her elegant style, intricate plotting, incisive characterization, and top-notch storytelling to her first book for teens.

To be honest, I’ve been spying on this book for a millennium. Okay, it sure feels like it, especially since I’ve always hesitated to pick it up. Psychological thrillers are my favourite kind, and I’m always looking for another one. The Edge of Nowhere could’ve been better, by the way, but it was enjoyable for a night.

For the longest time, I’ve been hearing about Elizabeth George and her popular novels, but I actually never knew that this was her first in the YA genre. It was pleasing. The concept was a little absurd for something normal, but do keep in mind that there was a bunch of paranormal factors in the mix—like missing people and powers and stuff.

Yeah, so I really am into these kinds of books. The concept was certainly like one of those that you’d find in a thriller movie made by Stephen King. The plot was very done well. And it all began in a simple matter where the main character was shipped off, abused and left in an unknown island in the middle of nowhere where her mother expects her to adapt to and live and find a home. Yeah, it’s that weird. Becca King changed her name and her home after running away from home pushed away from her mother after hearing ‘whispers’ in her head of the unknown others around her. Bec is soon adopted by another family—and will live in their motel and work for her room. Then, she meet Seth and Derric, two guys who literally change her life forever.

Was this a love triangle? Hmm… I guess you could say so but the sparks weren't always there as conflict as a major fact here most of the time. The romance was a little sucky in my opinion as I didn’t really like the love and stuff. Derric didn’t appeal so much to me, both as a character and as a love interest. Bec did love him, and he loved her, but his story was cliche and made to be with Bec’s situation. Sure, they had to understand each other, but it seemed like their situations were put in for a purpose and it didn't happen naturally.

The story first began with a boom. For Bec, it was a pretty live-changing moment when she discovered her stepfather’s criminal acts. I would’ve been broken and totally all over the place. Bec took everything seriously. From her name Hannah, she changed it without a problem or act. She was like a spy and understood the plan. She EVEN slept in a doghouse one day! 

Although the book was long as in pages, it felt very fast as the story went by. It sure was fast-paced and I was really interested for most of the time. It went by fast, and I was captivated by the first page.

I do have to say that the characters are what brought this book down. Bec, Debbie, Derric, and Seth were all… Meh. I guess I can say that I had trouble relating to them? As a protagonist, I can say that Bec could’ve been more into the story and happy. But she seemed to let her paranormal thoughts get to her I guess.

Hey—even though I’ve given this a 3.5 rating, it wasn’t the best thing ever. I can’t seem to put my thoughts into words as I’ve been holding this review off from writing. My thoughts are splattered and as time goes by, I’m moving everything away. The Edge of Nowhere was a great paranormal read that sure gave me some shivers here and there.

Criminal, by Terra Elan McVoy Review

Criminal, by Terra Elan McVoy

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Contemporary, Mystery/Thriller/Murder

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Publication: May 7, 2013, by Simon Pulse

Format: Paperback Edition (borrowed)




Goodreads Summary: A searing and gripping read that explores the depths of desperation true love can inspire, from the author of Being Friends with Boys.

Nikki’s life is far from perfect, but at least she has Dee. Her friends tell her that Dee is no good, but Nikki can’t imagine herself without him. He’s hot, he’s dangerous, he has her initials tattooed over his heart, and she loves him more than anything. There’s nothing Nikki wouldn’t do for Dee. Absolutely nothing.

So when Dee pulls Nikki into a crime—a crime that ends in murder—Nikki tells herself that it’s all for true love. Nothing can break them apart. Not the police. Not the arrest that lands Nikki in jail. Not even the investigators who want her to testify against him.

But what if Dee had motives that Nikki knew nothing about? Nikki’s love for Dee is supposed to be unconditional…but even true love has a limit. And Nikki just might have reached hers.

Review:

  

           I FINALLY LOVED A BOOK BY THIS AUTHOR! *squeals* I've actually given McVoy's books a chance so many times and I was always left disappointed. With this one, I promised myself that if I didn't enjoy it whatsoever, it'd be my last chance ever. I guess fate was scared of me letting this author's books go...

           

        Criminal was seriously epic. It gave me heart-stopping moments throughout the whole novel that never let me go until the end, plot twists that I never saw coming, and so many "OMG" moments that I couldn't believe were happening. 

    Nikki is afraid—that's all she's been since that day happened. But at least she has Dee, right? As her best friend and only home drifts apart because of the police, Nikki finds that she's all on her own, until they come to her house. She's found guilty and is placed into prison, eagerly waiting for trial. The days feel like months, and the weeks feel like years. Nikki feels like she has to fight to get out, just so she can be with Dee, one of the only people who really loves her. And what about Dee's motives? Secrets are secrets, and criminals are criminals. Together, they repose something far more powerful.

            

       We all rarely read a book that takes place in a prison. When you think about it, not much can go on in there in order to create a novel, basically. But the amazing thing about this book was that it worked. And it worked extremely well, far more than I could've ever imagined. The concept and mystery flowed so well together, and by the end, we were left with no need to ask any questions. 

            Surprisingly, the writing was like devouring your favourite food—100 pieces of it, over and over again. I felt like I was in the need to read this in one sitting no matter what, and I did. This was my Friday-night read, and I sat there after squealing and giggling because I was the happiest person to see how good it ended up being. The plot was so well written—it certainly deserves an Oscar Award for best plot of 2013.

             Nikki portrayed an excellent story through her thoughts. I loved reading through her narration, her POV, and she made the story a hundred times better, believe it or not. Her character was somebody who I will remember forever, as being one of the truest female heroines in a mystery novel. She made the story seem real, and she proved that this could absolutely happen in real life. The poor girl went through so much, and adding to that, her feelings and emotions were all over the place because she was spared, used, and left behind alone. And all of the blame was left on her, a criminal who wasn't even supposed to become one.  Her message was shown to us more real than ever.

             My only negative-exception that my attention span paid attention to was Dee. His motive and personality just didn't work with me. It became too cheesy. We all knew from the moment that he was introduced that he had something going on with him behind the scenes. And when it was released, I wasn't surprised. I expected a twist with his story, perhaps something psychological, but instead we ended up with an average guy's story, but in a more obsessive matter. *frowns* 

             In conclusion, I am probably the happiest person alive right now. This book was honestly amazing, and I seriously thank fate for getting me to pick it up. It was everything I've wanted in a mystery novel for a long time. Enjoy this, it's a gorgeous read.

Crown of Midnight, by Sarah J. Maas

Crown of Midnight (Throne of Glass #2), by Sarah J. Maas

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Fantasy, Romance, Action

Rating: 5/5 stars

Publication: August 27, 2013, by Bloomsbury

Format: Hardcover Edition (borrowed)




Goodreads Summary: "A line that should never be crossed is about to be breached.

It puts this entire castle in jeopardy—and the life of your friend."

From the throne of glass rules a king with a fist of iron and a soul black as pitch. Assassin Celaena Sardothien won a brutal contest to become his Champion. Yet Celaena is far from loyal to the crown. She hides her secret vigilantly; she knows that the man she serves is bent on evil.

Keeping up the deadly charade becomes increasingly difficult when Celaena realizes she is not the only one seeking justice. As she tries to untangle the mysteries buried deep within the glass castle, her closest relationships suffer. It seems no one is above questioning her allegiances—not the Crown Prince Dorian; not Chaol, the Captain of the Guard; not even her best friend, Nehemia, a foreign princess with a rebel heart.

Then one terrible night, the secrets they have all been keeping lead to an unspeakable tragedy. As Celaena's world shatters, she will be forced to give up the very thing most precious to her and decide once and for all where her true loyalties lie...and whom she is ultimately willing to fight for.

Review:

"Leave the talking and charming to me." Chaol raised his brows. "So I'm just here for decoration?" "Be grateful I consider you a worthy accessory." (p. 56)

  This book was like an action TV show in my head. It probably was even better than the first book!

    We all know that Sarah J. Maas masters her books every time. I've only read 2 of her books, and from there, I can see that she's easily a favourite author of mine. By every chapter, she keeps improving her writing and our captivation. She immensely makes everything better and better before we know it. Our time reading this book goes by so quickly, and before we know it, we're having a pretty achy book hangover and our world is slowly falling apart because we realize that the next book in the series is coming (for those who don't have access to pretty review copies.) 

     This book was another fantasy YA literature masterpiece. There was no signs whatsoever of second-book-syndrome (which we all dread) and the action and romance here was better than ever. This book has a mixture of almost every book genre you may think of. Romance, yes (highly), action, adventure, fantasy, magic, suspense, fairies, mystery, EVERYTHING. I love books that incorporate that sort of variety and diversity of different genres.

      If you haven't read the first book or currently are, I would highly not recommend reading on with this review. Just saying. Many SPOILERS will be announced from the previous book and from this one. Take a precaution.

       Celaena has won the fight to become the King's Champion. It was a tough fight that required a lot of fighting and came with consequences, but Celaena has done it. Now, things aren't going to become easier. Secrets and mysteries will unravel beside the fact that Celaena has some drama with her own love relationships going on. Then, adding to that, a big catastrophe came to be. Nehemia DIED. Celaena's only true best friend and person who understood her died, and everything slowly collapsed around her. Could things seriously not get worse?

        In two separate motions, here are two feels that will overcome you and your bookish friends:

       Happy because of the romance between Celaena and Chaol (I literally screamed) and then sad because of the unspeakable tragedy that Sarah really had to add. (Not that it didn't hurt me too much. *sarcasm*)

       But I strongly believe that when a book gives you different and crazy feels, then it's even better. Every book is supposed to be an addicting TV show, with drama, action and romance in between. Feeling things are the best. And this book definitely deserves the Emmy Award.

       When completing the first book, I was in a hazardous book hangover and needed the sequel. A few days later (more like two) I went to the library and picked this one up. I began it sooner than I knew it, and finished it in a matter of three hours. Three hours of screaming, crying, tears, and squeals. Three hours of about 420 pages. I really would like to give myself a big pat on the back for that. :)

        This book still held the same amount of fantasy, a little more romance and amazing action as the previous novel. I love the concept and I think that this is surely the best fantasy-romance book out there.

        I just loved the whole book. There were no moments when I was bored or slightly blinking an eye. Every moment was addicting and unspeakable to any other person. I finished it off with a huge headache of wanting the next book (which I will get to soon because I got a review copy, haha). The plot was a whole enjoyable roller coaster and Celaena's voice was better than ever.

        So imagine this. I loved the first book so dearly much and gave it a 5 gazillion star rating, and this was even better. Imagine my love for this one now. I'm probably giving it an infinite amount of stars. :)

        The character-relationships between Celaena and the men gradually improved even more. Chaol and Celaena FINALLY KISSED and I kept saying, "I wish I was Celaena," so many times out loud. I kept squealing and making a fool out of myself in my own very home. xD Although Celaena and Dorian are now just-friends, I really wish that their love will come back. It's not safe to love the Captain of the Guard, and it isn't safe to love the Prince. So both ways, Celaena would be taking a risk. *grumpy cat face*

          Celaena was just the same as ever. She's a definite favourite heroine of mine, and I wouldn't trade my love for her for anyone else, except maybe Tessa Gray. *apologizes* But Celaena is such a badass girly character. Just my type of woman. 

          And obviously, I have a huge love relatable relationship to the men. Chaol and Dorian both have something so special about them that no fictional men can beat. I, a girl, can even relate to them. I dream every night that they can hold me in their arms.

        By the end, I was a broken mess. I was struggling very hard to deal with the loss of Nehemia, one of my favourite characters. And then the whole action scene with Chaol got me thinking, and then BAM WE FOUND OUT SOMETHING HUGE. And of course, Sarah J. Maas left us with a terrible cliffhanger and I'm going to have to read the next book very soon.

         :') I JUST CAN'T WAIT. But honestly, what a beautiful book.

         

          My favourite quotes:

    

          "The rest of the world quieted into nothing. In that moment, after ten long years, Celaena looked at Chaol and realized she was home." 

          "The moonlight and the garden and the garden glow from the ballroom blurred together, now miles away. "We'll never be a normal boy and girl, will we?" she managed to say. "No," he breathed, eyes blazing. "We won't." (p. 134)

            "Is that... chocolate cake?" "I thought you might need some." "Need, not want? A ghost of a smile was on her lips, and he almost sagged in relief as he said, "For you, I'd say that chocolate cake is most definitely a need." (p. 173)

             "He will kill you, Celaena." He grabbed her by the shoulders and shook her. "He'll kill you, and make me do it as punishment for being your friend." That was the terror that he grappled with--the fear that plagued him, the thing that had kept him on this side of the line for so long." (p. 186)

              "I would be the greatest fool in the world to let you go alone." And then there were tears rolling down her face, and her mouth became a thin, wobbling line. He pulled back, but didn't let her go. "Why are you crying?" "Because," she whispered, her voice shaking, "you remind me of how the world ought to be. What the world can be." (p. 187)

             "The kiss obliterated her. It was like coming home or being born or suddenly finding an entire half of herself that had been missing. His lips were hot and soft against hers--still tentative, and after a moment, he pulled back far enough to look into her eyes. She trembled with the need to touch him everywhere at once, to feel him touching her everywhere at once. He would give up everything to go with her. She twined her arms around his neck, her mouth meeting his in a second kiss that knocked the world out from under her." (p. 188)

             "But he couldn't help imagining it--the glimmer of the future and how it would be to forge a life together, to call her his wife, to hear her call him husband, to raise a brood of children who probably be far too clever and talented for their own good (and for Chaol's sanity). (p. 212)

             "What does that mean?" he demanded. She smiled sadly. "You'll figure it out. And when you do..." She shook her head, knowing she wouldn't say it, but doing it anyway."When you do, I want you to remember that it wouldn't have made any difference to me. It's never made any difference to me when it came to you. I'd still pick you. I'll always pick you." (p. 413)

Burning, by Elana K. Arnold

Burning, by Elana K. Arnold

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

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Publication: June 11, 2013, by Delacorte Press

Format: Hardcover Edition (Borrowed)






Goodreads Summary: Ben: Having just graduated from high school, Ben is set to leave Gypsum, Nevada. It's good timing since the gypsum mine that is the lifeblood of the area is closing, shutting the whole town down with it. Ben is lucky: he's headed to San Diego, where he's got a track scholarship at the University of California. But his best friends, Pete and Hog Boy, don't have college to look forward to, so to make them happy, Ben goes with them to check out the hot chick parked on the side of Highway 447.  

Lala: She and her Gypsy family earn money by telling fortunes. Some customers choose Tarot cards; others have their palms read. The thousands of people attending the nearby Burning Man festival spend lots of cash--especially as Lala gives uncanny readings. But lately Lala's been questioning whether there might be more to life than her upcoming arranged marriage. And the day she reads Ben's cards is the day that everything changes for her. . . and for him.

Review:

  Burning is a true summer-love romance. From the moment I picked the book, I knew that it would be the perfect summer read. Just look at the cover! 

   I've never read a gypsy book before. Elana K. Arnold has definitely introduced something completely new to me. A gypsy girl. A small-town boy. Star-crossed lovers. A beautiful romance. An amazing, thrilling summer. That's basically what the plot is all about, summed up in 5 short statements. 

   Lala and her Gypsy family come to Nevada for the summer to continue telling fortunes and making a living. She has an arranged marriage to a man that she never and never will love, and all she wants is change, and to get the get the heck out of her family's hands. When she meets small-town boy Ben, who's spending his last summer before university in his home that he's known all his life, everything suddenly changes. They both fall in love, despite their different ways of life, and have to make sacrifices to make everything work. Is it just a fling?

    

     It's not. The romance between Lala and Ben wasn't a fling, it was something far more special and beautiful. They were in love, and love doesn't come that easily. Bala (my ship name for them) had such a strong romance that hardly anyone's can compare to. From a matter of weeks, they learnt to understand each other completely despite everything that's going on with their families. The relationship they had was not only a romance, but a complete understanding and friendship. They didn't love each other just for the excitement and hunger, they loved each other because of love. You'd think that you cannot understand this type of relationship because of the matter that it is put in, but it's so easy to. Their love gave me the feels. *dreams*

    The concept of this book was fresh, unique, and summery. If you're looking for something related to Sarah Dessen's books, then this book is for you. Elana K. Arnold has created the next Sarah Dessen-related book. I keep thinking "Don't Stop Believin" about this story. "Just a small town girl, livin' in a lonely world..." But in ways, it's kind of the opposite. Ben is the small-town boy, and Lala comes from the ways of the city. They're not supposed to be together, but fate helped them along the way.

      When beginning this book, I had mixed expectations of what it could become. A possible 3.5 star rated book because of its cheesiness and predictability was my biggest guess. And from the beginning, that's where the book took off to be. The beginning was very narrow-sided and not strong and captivating. Until 100 pages, I was getting bored. And also, there was insta-love. *pukes* They basically fell in love at first sight, and that's unreal, in my opinion. But put that aside, and you have an amazing novel. From there, the plot took off. It became so captivating, and my squealing feels went out of control. When predicting the ending, I had a whole other idea of what was to come.

        In ways, the book was a masterpiece. But what I really liked about it was that it wasn't perfect. Imperfection is a strong thing, and it helps us realize that the story was more real than anything. This sounds very much like a true story, and I'd believe it if someone'd just tell me it verbally.

        

         I really had a total love relationship with the characters, especially because of their imperfection. Ben was a total heartthrob, and I can see him being in every YA romance story and totally making it awesome. Ugh, I just loved him too much, and it's very difficult to explain my feels in his case. :) But all I can say is that he made my heart skip a beat. 

           Lala was just a total fun and witty female protagonist. She was a rebel, and sick and tired of the Gypsy ways. All she wanted was to be free and to have a new chance at life because her arranged marriage and tradition would just ruin everything. We usually don't get protagonists like that, willing to do anything to have change.

           Of course, I loved the whole Gypsy aspect of the book, and I can tell that the subject means a lot to the author because she wrote about everything with such understanding passion. It was so unique to learn about that, and it was another of my favourite things about this book!

            The last thing that I wanted to mention was the ending. EHMAGERD. I don't know how to put this into words, but it SHOCKED ME. I don't want to spoil anything on here, so what I'll do is make you highlight it if you want to see the spoiler. *grins* WHY WOULD LALA NOT WANT TO BE WITH BEN? LIKE SHE WANTED HIM AND HER TO BE TOGETHER ALL ALONG, AND NOW THEIR RELATIONSHIP IS BASICALLY DONE, all because she wants to be on her ow. Meh. It hurts me as well. And imagine how devastated Ben must be.

              Overall, this book was amazing. I recommend it to any chick-lit lover, young or old. The romance is strong and beautiful, and so are the relatable real characters. Go for it.

Countdown, by Michelle Rowen

Countdown, by Michelle Rowen

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Dystopia, Romance, Adventure, Thriller

Rating: 5/5 stars

Publication: October 1, 2013, by Harlequin Teen

Format: Paperback Edition







Goodreads Summary: 3 seconds left to live. Once the countdown starts, it cannot be stopped. 

2 pawns thrown into a brutal underground reality game. 

Kira Jordan survived her family's murder and months on plague-devastated city streets with hard-won savvy and a low-level psi ability. She figures she can handle anything. Until she wakes up in a barren room, chained next to the notorious Rogan Ellis. 

1 reason Kira will never, ever trust Rogan. Even though both their lives depend on it. 

Their every move is controlled and televised for a vicious exclusive audience. And as Kira's psi skill unexpectedly grows and Rogan's secrets prove evermore deadly, Kira's only chance of survival is to risk trusting him as much as her instincts. Even if that means running head-on into the one trap she can't escape. 

Review:

"We'd been thrust together, neither of us had any choice in the matter, and we'd dealt with it the best we could. Now it was over, and the moment we reached our destination I might never see him again. This was the way it was supposed to be. Even though I knew that, it still hurt like hell."

  When reading the summary for this novel, I had high expectations. From the moment I did, I knew that this book was going to be something that has never been written before, or even hinted at. There have been many reviews noting that this is very similar to The Hunger Games. Yes, they do have their similarities, but they both have their differences as well. What's not to like about this racing beautiful book? A secret game where rich fat-sacks (Gareth and Jonathan, haha) put two criminals together in a game of six levels? Yeah, that's just my type of book, and it will be yours, too. 

   So that's the basic plot of this book. Kira and Rogan wake up in a cell, both attached to the wall. They have no idea why they're there (except Rogan, who has a small hint) and they see two keys on the floor. They decide to switch keys in front of them, and that's where the Countdown began. They are in a game of survival, where there are six levels, and if they pass those six levels, then their criminal record is swept clean and they get to go to the Colony. The Colony is a paradise-like city where everything is better. After the Great Plague that killed sixty percent of the population, people went on with their lives and went on to rebuild their lives. Then the Colony was formed and your only ticket in is if you're smart, having the right kind of money, or know the right kind of people. And winning the Countdown can give Rogan and Kira this kind of paradise that the rest of the world dreams of. They begin risking their lives and getting hurt throughout, but the main question is: Can they trust the people around them, including themselves? 

   I'm lost for words. From the first page in, I was addicted. Michelle Rowen is such a brilliant author. This is my first time reading one of her books and I know that I will read more of them. She creates such a beautiful world and the concept flows perfectly with everything else. Everything about this book was just brilliant. (Except the harsh things that Rogan and Kira went through, haha.) 

    At first, I didn't know how to classify this book. I had a strong feeling that it would become a full-crazed thriller, and I'm glad it did. I personally adore thrillers. The feeling of my heart clenching when I'm afraid for the characters and afraid of what's going to happen is probably one of the best feelings in the world. The adrenaline that Michelle Rowen created for me was just powerful. But yes, this was a dystopia sci-fi thriller romance, with some fantasy introduced in between.

     I absolutely adored this book. I know I have come to love many books, but my love for this one is something different than most. After reading, I got this feeling that made me want to re-read it over and over again. The action and whole story is so unforgettable, and I'm still in a book-hangover after it. I feel like I'm caught in the world of Kira and Rogan, two amazing characters who weren't perfect. They had their flaws, and that makes them even better in comparison. 

    Kira was the most sarcastic character I've ever read about. I love sarcasm, and she was a character who totally had it from head to toe. Although she was struggling with a little of depression and fear, she was a witty and hilarious character who knew how to act. She wasn't afraid to be rude to the bad guys. She wasn't afraid to love Rogan when the time came. She was just calm and outstanding. I loved reading from her POV. Her voice is one to remember.

     I had an insta-love moment with Rogan. I just loved him too much. There was no insta-love between him and Kira, which was absolutely perfect. They took their time to make their relationship go to the next level (even if it was in a matter of days) and he was one of the cutest men I've read about in a while. He's badass and sympathetic at the same time. 

      The plot was spectacular the whole time through. It kept me going the whole time through and not once (NOT ONCE, WHOA) was I bored. I just want to squeal every second when I think about this book. My love for it is unreal. *laughs*

       I was very pleased with the ending. Although I was sad that this was completely over (it's a standalone!) it was beautiful. Ahh! READ THIS BOOK. You will end up: fangirling, squealing, and crying and yelling. :)

ARC Review: Midnight Thief, by Livia Blackburne

Midnight Thief (Midnight Thief #1), by Livia Blackburne

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Fantasy

Rating: 4/5 stars

Publication: July 8, 2014, by Disney-Hyperion

Format: Paperback Edition (Printed ARC)






Goodreads Summary: Growing up on Forge’s streets has taught Kyra how to stretch a coin. And when that’s not enough, her uncanny ability to scale walls and bypass guards helps her take what she needs.

But when the leader of the Assassins Guild offers Kyra a lucrative job, she hesitates. She knows how to get by on her own, and she’s not sure she wants to play by his rules. But he’s persistent—and darkly attractive—and Kyra can’t quite resist his pull.

Tristam of Brancel is a young Palace knight on a mission. After his best friend is brutally murdered by Demon Riders, a clan of vicious warriors who ride bloodthirsty wildcats, Tristam vows to take them down. But as his investigation deepens, he finds his efforts thwarted by a talented thief, one who sneaks past Palace defenses with uncanny ease.

When a fateful raid throws Kyra and Tristam together, the two enemies realize that their best chance at survival—and vengeance—might be to join forces. And as their loyalties are tested to the breaking point, they learn a startling secret about Kyra’s past that threatens to reshape both their lives.

Review:

*Review copy provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review.*

  Well. Since I've been in the mood for fantasy reads lately, I decided to go with this one. And it was spectacular. I've seen mixed reviews about this book. The majority are pretty negative, but I just blocked those away from mind. The point that got me afraid the most was that there barely was any romance whatsoever. 

   I usually never read any books that don't include romance. I adore romance and the feelings that fictional men give me. *gushes* I never really get to go through a reading experience where the protagonist(s) are falling in love. This was a first, and I thoroughly enjoyed the uniqueness that Livia Blackburne created. She isn't your average author. She has formed a fantasy series that (a) has no insta-love, (b) has no love triangles, (c) is diverse. What more can we be looking for?

    WHEN READING THIS BOOK, YOU WILL GO THROUGH THE FOLLOWING FEELS:

-fear, because you are afraid for the badass protagonist, Kyra, well because, she's badass and does badass things, and risks her life for others.

-tears, because Tristam is just so heart-throbbing and caring and has the feels for Kyra. You will cry in happiness and in sadness because of the fact that Kyra almost died, a few times.

-anger at the author because she just left us wanting more, especially after a crazy large action scene. We also have QUESTIONS that weren't answered. *yells* And anger because we'll have to be waiting another whole freakin' year for the sequel. Meh.

-happiness, because every book has those moments where you just want to gush inside out and you feel like the rest of the world is crashing on top of you when you realize that everything's fictional.

       So, if you'd like to go through some, or all of those feels listed above, then you'd probably like to read this book, a bunch of times over and over again. Or not, and you'll be the friendless and sad loser who's really missing out. It's either or, but I recommend to go through the first thing. *winks*

        In this book, Kyra is such a badass character, like you can't even imagine. (One of the most, ever.) In the beginning, we quickly meet Kyra and get to know the person that she is. She grew up as an orphan, living on the streets of Forge, begging for food and money. She one day meets fourteen year old Flick, who quickly becomes like an older brother to her and teaches her how to live, how to fight, and how to survive. Today, Kyra is still struggling to pay rent, but she's thankfully okay. When the leader of the Assassins Guild offers her a cryptic fearful job, she at first regrets it, but then finds that it's for her own good, at least for a while. James is utterly attractive and mysterious at the same time, and his rules need to be played by Kyra or else there'll be consequences. Tristam, a knight in the Palace, loses his best friend through a murder taken by the Demon Riders. He vows to get back at them, and with that said, he'll do anything. Fate unexpectedly puts Kyra and Tristam together, and they're supposed to be enemies. But joining teams together is even better. And well, they soon find out a terrifying shocking secret about Kyra's past that sure will change everything for her future.

        Fantasy is my new favourite YA genre. There, I said it. Livia Blackburne has almost perfected writing a YA fantasy novel, and in fact, that's very hard to accomplish. In order to create a beautiful fantasy read, you must have a beautiful world setting that captivates readers. And bam, she did it. Although the world of this book was very mysterious and we don't really know much about it, I loved it. It's a mystery if it's dystopian, but it's fascinating. The use of fantasy creatures like Demon Riders and the cats were very well thought-out and impressive. I normally never did fall for that kind of stuff but it was mastered here.

         I very much indeed liked the plot. The beginning was striking and captivating, just like any beginning should be. I was hooked by the first page. There was ACTION on the first page. Like really, when does an author do that? Well, in Midnight Thief that did happen... :) Moving on, this book steadily kept its pace at a good level and we had many awesome action scenes, which is a must in a fantasy novel. But by the middle, right before Kyra and Tristam met, the story went a little downhill and I was very afraid to see what would happen next. That was the only flaw, but it kept me bored for at least 75 pages. These type of things usually don't bother me, but the middle part of the book really didn't get me addicted like the other parts did.

          By the end, I loved this book. The ending was just majestic and perfectly formed. It ended with unanswered questions and kept me wanting more. 

            The characters were my favourite part of the book. Kyra was so easy to relate to and even through her struggles, she was still a strong person. She had so much strength in her personality and took everything seriously. She was one of the most emotionally strong heroines that I've ever read about. Move over, Celaena Sardothien, we have another badass in town. :)

             Tristam was pretty brilliant as well. He was a very soothing character. You need a shoulder to cry on, he was there. He was one of those sympathetic characters that gave the struggling people a boost. 

              This book was a definite piece of fantasy literature brilliance. It had its labyrinth moments, but I definitely recommend it to everyone. You don't read fantasy but are looking for a good plot? Then still read this. Especially for those who are looking a change in plot. There's not much love here!