Taste of Darkness by Maria V. Snyder

Reading Level: Ages 12 and up
Paperback: 458 Pages
Release Date: December 31, 2013
Publisher: Harlequin
Narration: First Person: Avry
                Third Person: Kerrick
Genre: Fantasy/Magic
Source: Library
Trailer: Click Here

The Healer Series
Book One: Touch of Power
Book Two: Scent of Magic
Book Three: Taste of Darkness

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Goodreads Synopsis:

She's fought death and won. But how can she fight her fears?

Avry knows hardship and trouble. She fought the plague and survived. She took on King Tohon and defeated him. But now her heart-mate, Kerrick, is missing, and Avry fears he's gone forever.

But there's a more immediate threat: The Skeleton King plots to claim the Fifteen Realms for his own. With armies in disarray and the dead not staying down, Avry's healing powers are needed now more than ever.

Torn between love and loyalty, Avry must choose her path carefully. For the future of her world depends on her decision.

My Review:

Cover Thoughts: I like this cover a lot more than the UK edition. At first glance, it may seem like just another one of those covers with girls starting off dramatically into the distance, but the lilies at least bear relevance to the plot. I didn't see much importance of the cup in the novel, but I get how it ties in with the title. A Taste of Darkness. Get it? Witty.

I had a really rough start with Taste of Darkness, which is unusual since Snyder is one of my favorite authors. There wasn't anything necessarily wrong with the beginning. It was just hard to get into, because I only remembered a few of the main characters. It's been a while since this series began, so this didn't surprise me. I saw a few attempts here and there to jog the reader's memory on past events, but overall, my knowledge was limited. Because of this, I had to constantly stop and wonder about who this character and that character was. This really messed up my reading flow. However, after I reached page 150, things got smoother. I started to remember some of the minor characters and got the general gist of the characters that didn't have much of a role. 

The humor wasn't as funny as it used to be. To be honest, I was a little disappointed with it. There were a lot of jabs and pointed remarks between the characters, but I wasn't feeling it. The majority of the jokes had me rolling my eyes or facepalming. 

“But they fight in the name of the creator." 

"I don't care if they fight in the name of broccoli. The goal remains the same.”

This was the funniest line in the book. Depressing, isn't it?

Adding to my irritation, it also seemed like there were countless times when other characters shockingly remarked of how brave or how awesome or intelligent Avry was, when in fact, her brilliant "epiphany" was something that anyone could've figured out. For example, there was this one time when Odd, a renowned sergeant in an army marveled at how general like Avry was when she suggested contingency plans for a mission. Dude. Your a sergeant. You should ALWAYS have a backup plan if something goes wrong. It shouldn't be up to someone else to tell you.  

The writing also grated on my nerves. I'm not sure if it's just that I've grown as a reader or because the author's writing style changed, but it felt rough and disjointed. Many things were explained weirdly, to the point where I still don't know what it was trying to say. And other sentences felt awkward on my tongue. 

Other then that, I enjoyed the novel. It wasn't as good as I had hoped, but it didn't feel like a waste of time either. Snyder wrapped things up nicely, although I do wish we got to know more about Belen, Flea, and the monkeys at the end of the novel.

Cover- 4/5

Heroine- 3/5

Romance- 3/5 Meh.

Action- 3/5
Humor- 2/5 There were a lot of failed attempts.

Writing- 2.5/5 Awkward writing.
Setting- 4/5 Your everyday fantasy landscape, but the lilies are unique.

Overall- 3/5

Control by Lydia Kang

Reading Level: Ages 12 and up
Hardcover: 393 Pages
Release Date: December 26, 2013
Publisher: Dial Books for Young Readers
Narration: First Person: Zelia
Genre: Dystopian
Source: Library
Trailer: Click Here

The Control Series
Book One: Control
Book Two: Catalyst
Book Three: Unknown

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Goodreads Synopsis:

An un-putdownable thriller for fans of Uglies

When a crash kills their father and leaves them orphaned, Zel knows she needs to protect her sister, Dyl. But before Zel has a plan, Dyl is taken by strangers using bizarre sensory weapons, and Zel finds herself in a safe house for teens who aren’t like any she’s ever seen before—teens who shouldn't even exist. Using broken-down technology, her new friends’ peculiar gifts, and her own grit, Zel must find a way to get her sister back from the kidnappers who think a powerful secret is encoded in Dyl’s DNA.

A spiraling, intense, romantic story set in 2150—in a world of automatic cars, nightclubs with auditory ecstasy drugs, and guys with four arms—this is about the human genetic “mistakes” that society wants to forget, and the way that outcasts can turn out to be heroes.

My Review:

Cover Thoughts: Really digging the cover. Love the font of the title and the color scheme they used.

Other Thoughts: After reading Control, I still have no idea how the title or the slogan ties in with the novel. Maybe Control means the control group of an experiment? If that's the only way it connects to the novel, that's kind of sad. And "There are no accidents?" Not even a smidgen of a clue there.

I dove into Control with mixed feelings, so I can't say if it met my expectations or not. It was definitely confusing at first, no doubt in that. Lydia takes no time dawdling and immediately jumps into the stream of things, which was a good and bad thing. Good, because I wasn't stuck with a dragging info-dump, yet bad because I had no idea what I was reading about.

"Down the hallway, I smell my little sister walk by. This month, it's Persian freesia. 

Dad says nothing about her pricey scent downloads."

First time around, I skimmed this part and just thought, "Ok, so she likes perfume." But after a few more sentences, I was wondering, "Wait, what did she just say?" It took me a while to even realize that this story took place so far into the future. I mean, I knew that this world was going to have all sorts of genetic mutations, but for some reason, I still expected the world to be more modern rather than futuristic.

Another thing I had trouble coming to terms with was the sometimes, who am I kidding, most of the time irrational reactions the characters had to traumatic situations. For example, when Dylia and Zelia's dad died, both of them were upset. However, after a few hours, Dylia is fake-crying and primping herself up to catch a guy's attention? Geez. Adding onto the irrational reactions, things just....didn't make sense. Questionable actions were taken, yet the obvious questions weren't asked. People were happy to let others get away with things that seemed highly suspicious. 

The romance was utterly ridiculous as well. Not a classic Insta-love romance. Nope. Instead, it was a Insta-Hate THEN Love romance. And it was so predictable that I almost flung the novel across the room. As soon as the protagonist set eyes upon the "resident bad boy," I knew she was a goner before she even knew his name. Things went downhill straight from there. Shortly after they got over their mutual, seemingly intrinsic hate for each other, the love interest suddenly feels this weird, spontaneous need to protect her above all costs! Gah.

Even though I mostly disliked Control, there were still some aspects that I found rather fascinating. For example, the mutation/genetic modifications. Instead of the superpowers you would usually think of: invisibility, telepathy, telekinesis, teleporting, there were weird mutations like: extra ligaments, extra brains, or highly sensitive nose glands. Admittedly, I missed the old variety of superpowers, but I applaud Lydia for her originality.

Heroine- 2.5/5

Romance- 1.5/5

Please, let us never speak of this again.

Action- 2.5/5

Writing- 3/5

Overall- 2.5/5

Becoming Alpha by Aileen Erin

Reading Level: Ages 12 and up
Paperback: 267 Pages
Release Date: December 17, 2013
Publisher: Ink Monster
Narration: First Person: Tessa
Genre: Paranormal/Werewolves
Challenge: None
Source: Bought

The Alpha Girl Series
Book One: Becoming Alpha
Book Two: Avoiding Alpha
Book Three: Unknown

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Goodreads Synopsis:

Tessa McCaide has a unique talent for getting into trouble. Then again, it isn’t easy for a girl with visions to ignore what she sees. Luckily Tessa and her family are leaving California and moving halfway across the country, giving her the perfect opportunity to leave her reputation as “Freaky Tessa” behind. 

But Tessa doesn’t realize that kissing the wrong guy in her new Texas town could land her in far more trouble than she ever imagined. Like being forced to attend St. Ailbe’s Academy, a secret boarding school for werewolves. 

Even if the wrong guy did accidentally turn her into one of “them” and doom her to attending the weirdest high school ever, Tessa can’t help her growing attraction to the mysterious Dastien Laurent.

When vampires attack St. Alibe’s and her visions pinpoint an enemy in their midst, Tessa realizes that boy drama and her newfound canine tendencies might just be the least of her problems.

My Review:

Your typical werewolf story, but entertaining nonetheless. 

In the beginning, I enjoyed reading about the main character and connected with her instantly, but as the novel progressed, I grew more and more irritated by her irrational behavior. She was still strong and brave, someone who fought back even when the odds were against her....but there was a point when it just became too much. It seemed like every single time there was a chance to beat someone, she just had to take it. Always, constantly having to one-up someone to show them who the boss was, even if they were far wiser than her. Once or twice, I have no problem with. In fact, I even cheered for her the first two times. But it happened countless times after, which annoyed me ceaselessly. Plus, she became a bitch after she turned into a werewolf. Some of her snappiness can be brushed off as heightened emotions, but not all of it. 

Another thing that bothered me was the lack of plausibility of the story. It seemed like everyone and their mother knew about the existence of werewolves in this certain community, but the rest of the world didn't. What's to keep the "norms," as the werewolves call them, from going to the press and exposing their kind to the rest of the world? Wouldn't it be a little suspicious to have a town infested with huge wolves? Don't you think the aforementioned problem, and the mysterious happenings around that town, would be enough to draw government attention to it? Plus, another thing I had a hard time believing was that Tessa was the first human to ever be unintentionally turned. 60 years in the same location and no other werewolf has ever accidentally lost control?

If you look at this novel from a distance, everything seems fine and dandy. It's only when you actually delve into the story, examining certain things, when you discover that everything isn't as perfect as it seems. Other than those two issues, I quite enjoyed this read. The supporting characters were awesome, especially Axel, and the writing was up to par. Will I be reading the sequel? Possibly.

Heroine- 3/5

Romance- 2.5/5

Action- 4/5

Writing- 4/5

Overall- 3.5/5

Sorrow's Knot by Erin Bow

Reading Level: Ages 12 and up
Hardcover: 368 Pages
Release Date: October 29, 2013
Publisher: Arthur A. Levine Books
Narration: Third Person: Otter
Genre: Fantasy/Paranormal
Series: Stand Alone
Challenge: None
Source: Library

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Goodreads Synopsis:

In the world of Sorrow’s Knot, the dead do not rest easy. Every patch of shadow might be home to something hungry and nearly invisible, something deadly. The dead can only be repelled or destroyed with magically knotted cords and yarns. The women who tie these knots are called binders.

Otter is the daughter of Willow, a binder of great power. She’s a proud and privileged girl who takes it for granted that she will be a binder some day herself. But when Willow’s power begins to turn inward and tear her apart, Otter finds herself trapped with a responsibility she’s not ready for, and a power she no longer wants.

My Review:

DNF. Gave up at page 183. My review only reflects the part of the novel that I read.

The story wasn't completely horrible. As most books do, Sorrow's Knot had its strengths and its weaknesses, However, I do put extra emphasis on the weakness part. On the up side, the theme was original and the writing flowed nicely. However, it's important to note that just because the writing style is poetic and seemingly profound, doesn't mean that it makes sense. On the contrary, it can sound like a whole lot of gibberish. 

Nothing was thoroughly explained in this novel. We were left with half-answers, grasping at straws, wondering what the hell we were supposed to know. Concrete ideas were withheld, and I felt like there were too many contradictions. Either that, or I subconsciously jumped to conclusions, because I wasn't quite sure what to believe. The characters were also very dry and emotionless. There comes a time in the book where one of the characters kills someone by accident. Even if it wasn't on purpose, don't you think the normal response would be to cry or show some outwardly sign of deep remorse? Perhaps, go into a state of shock or horror? Nope. Instead you can just stare blankly at the body while it's being dragged away. 

Another thing that didn't feel realistic was the overall atmosphere of the townspeople. Basically, all they did was stare and whisper to each other conspiratorially. Even when there was a crazy woman in their midst, a woman with the capability of ending all their lives, they just calmly questioned her on what she was doing. Despite the blatantly obvious information right in front of their faces POINTING TO HER UNSTABLE MIND. What kind of society is this? In fact, we don't even get to know anybody in this town, tribe, whatever you want to call it. Well, maybe with the exception of two or three people, but other than that, nothing more than a glimpse of their faces or outwardly appearances.

I never became immersed in this world. There was little action, at least from the portion I managed to get through. I've read from other reviews that it picks up towards the end when the love interest makes a sudden appearance, but sadly, I just can't find it in myself to care. 

This story seriously had a HUGE amount of potential, and it always saddens me to see that potential wasted. I, for one, am completely fascinated by Native American culture and their interactions with nature, which is why I started this with such high hopes. Unfortunately, Sorrow's Knot just....didn't do it for me.

Heroine- 2/5

Romance- N/A

Love interest doesn't enter 

until the latter portion of the book.

Action- 2/5

Dragged, and dragged, and dragged.

Writing- 4/5

Unique and well stylized. However, it does 

make the plot feel slower at times, 

especially in the climatic scenes.
Overall- 2/5

The Program by Suzanne Young

Reading Level: Ages 13 and up
Hardcover: 405 Pages
Release Date: April 30, 2013
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Narration: First Person: Sloane
Genre: Dystopian
Challenge: Dystopian

The Program Series:
Book One: The Program
Book Two: The Treatment (4/29/14)
Book Three: Unknown

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Goodreads Synopsis:

In Sloane’s world, true feelings are forbidden, 

teen suicide is an epidemic, and the only solution is The Program.

Sloane knows better than to cry in front of anyone. With suicide now an international epidemic, one outburst could land her in The Program, the only proven course of treatment. Sloane’s parents have already lost one child; Sloane knows they’ll do anything to keep her alive. She also knows that everyone who’s been through The Program returns as a blank slate. Because their depression is gone—but so are their memories.

Under constant surveillance at home and at school, Sloane puts on a brave face and keeps her feelings buried as deep as she can. The only person Sloane can be herself with is James. He’s promised to keep them both safe and out of treatment, and Sloane knows their love is strong enough to withstand anything. But despite the promises they made to each other, it’s getting harder to hide the truth. 

They are both growing weaker.

Depression is setting in. 

And The Program is coming for them.

My Review:

In this world, the teenage-suicide rate has skyrocketed. So much so that adults have labeled it as an out-of-control epidemic, a contagious disease that spreads from teenager to teenager. Bringing literal meaning to, "If your friend jumps off a bridge, would you do it too?" In order to control the epidemic, adults have developed and begun utilizing something called "The Program." So far, it's only in its beginning stages, which is why it only takes place in certain school districts. The teenagers who have the misfortune of going to those schools are sent to the Program if they show any signs of suicide, self-harm, or depression. All it takes, is one outbreak, one escaped tear, to get someone flagged and sent in for treatments. 

Since The Program boasts a 100% success rate in turning kids back into "normal, happy" teens who can live "normal, happy" lives, parents have become desperate enough to send their troubled teens in, no questions asked about what The Program really does. Despite the fact that government keeps any information about it under lock and key and that no visitors are permitted in the facilities, parents still ignore their misgivings and believe the best about it. Teens in this society live in constant fear of exposing their emotions. There not allowed to grieve or cry for their many lost loved ones, which makes them all the more suicidal. Many teens who are flagged choose death over the Program anyways, because they see what happens to those who enter it. They're wiped clean of memories of their friends, relationships, and anything else worth remembering. A clean slate.

The characters themselves were strong independently. Sloane and James weren't one of those couples who were nothing without the other. Although Sloane did panic a bit in the beginning from having to make decisions by herself, she got over that initial shock, put on her big girl pants, and did her best to remedy the situation. She was truly a strong heroine. Not in the physical sense, but in the mental sense. You would have to be if you wanted to stay sane in a society like this. Never showing your genuine emotions? Even in front of your parents? That's a complete nightmare. Her strained conversations with her parents tore my heart into pieces. I mean, I understand why they would feel so protective of her after losing their first child, but I was still pleading, begging really, for them to listen to their daughter for a change.

Although I really felt for her, there were still a couple of times when her naivete made me cringe. She trusted too easily at times, and when she did have the sense to be paranoid, she did what she was told anyways. Instead of trying to concoct a plan to get out of what she didn't want to do, she decided to live in the here and now, expressing a tiny act of defiance that would've never gotten her anywhere. James was a refreshing love interest. I really loved his personality and how he always tried his best to look after Sloane. But as all people do in reality, he had his faults and made mistakes along the way. This made him feel tangible, relatable in the everyday sense. Plus, he had a hilarious sense of humor, something that was definitely needed to temper out the dark, haunting setting these characters live in.

The relationship between Sloane and James was a refreshing and unique one! By now, I'm used to reading books where the main character falls in love with a character that she meets later on in the novel or with someone she never knew she had feelings for. In The Program, she was already madly in love. The way they interacted with each other was absolutely adorable.

Overall, I'm super happy for picking this up as an impulse read. Usually, I tend to stay away from books that don't involve a lot of action scenes, but this one, was a definite heart-jerker. The writing style was average. Something that I didn't notice too much, but also something that I didn't get irritated at. The theme was absolutely amazing, and I definitely give Young props for that. In a quickly overpopulating dystopian genre, Young manages to weave a chilling, eerie world that distinctly stands out above the rest. The Program makes you feel like a world as dark as this one can actually happen to us one day. A scary thought. In the next novel, I'm hoping that we'll find out more about the reason for the skyrocket in teenage suicides. There were a couple theories tossed around here and there, but nothing concrete. Can't wait!

Heroine- 4/5
Mentally strong, a bit naive.
Writing- 4/5 Nothing special.
Romance- 5/5
Loved the dialogue between these two!
Action- 4.5/5
Not your typical physical action, but
enough to keep me thoroughly engaged.
Sequel? Yes
Recommend? Definitely, although you probably have to be in a certain mood to read it.
Overall- 4.5/5

Allegiant by Veronica Roth

Reading Level: Ages 12 and up
Hardcover: 526 Pages
Release Date: October 22, 2013
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
Narration: First Person: Tris, Tobias
Genre: Dystopian
Challenge: Dystopian

The Divergent Series:
Book One: Divergent
Book Two: Insurgent
Book Three: Allegiant

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Goodreads Synopsis:

The faction-based society that Tris Prior once believed in is shattered—fractured by violence and power struggles and scarred by loss and betrayal. So when offered a chance to explore the world past the limits she’s known, Tris is ready. Perhaps beyond the fence, she and Tobias will find a simple new life together, free from complicated lies, tangled loyalties, and painful memories. 

But Tris’s new reality is even more alarming than the one she left behind. Old discoveries are quickly rendered meaningless. Explosive new truths change the hearts of those she loves. And once again, Tris must battle to comprehend the complexities of human nature—and of herself—while facing impossible choices about courage, allegiance, sacrifice, and love. 

Told from a riveting dual perspective, Allegiant, by #1 New York Times best-selling author Veronica Roth, brings the Divergent series to a powerful conclusion while revealing the secrets of the dystopian world that has captivated millions of readers in Divergent and Insurgent.

My Review:

"I don't need to relive my fears anymore.
All I need to do now is try to overcome them."

This is one of the main reasons why I admire Veronica Roth's Divergent series so much. She packs so much meaning into her books, meanings that we can apply to our own, everyday lives. She connects with her readers on an emotional level that other authors rarely do. Literally, there's at least one sentence on each page that can be turned into an inspirational quote fit for a Hallmark coffee mug. However, even though I do love the message behind her words, I'm not saying that I'm a particular fan of her writing style. Back when I was reading Divergent, I didn't notice it too much, because there was nothing to compare it to. However, after two years of extensive, more like obsessive, reading, I realized that Roth's writing sounded choppy and forced compared to some of my other favorite authors. The first few chapters were difficult to get into, because the sentences rolled unnaturally off my tongue. But after a bit of fumbling, I adapted to her writing style, and it became easier and easier to ignore my discomfort with it.

Another thing that I wasn't a huge fan of was the constant switching point of views between Tris and Tobias. If it was a regular, continuous switch off every other chapter, it might've worked better, but the transitions were completely random. Plus, Tobias's voice sounded exactly like Tris's, which was confusing at the least and disturbing at the most. Because of that, I had to constantly flip back and forth between pages in order to see whose perspective I was actually reading from.

Tris is definitely one of my favorite heroines of all time. She's such an intricately woven character with so much depth! Instead of the flat, two dimensional characters we see in so many YA novels, Veronica has given us a heroine who knows that she isn't perfect, knows that she's made mistakes, but nonetheless tries her best to learn from them, and ultimately, overcome them. She doesn't break from all the guilt of her past actions, instead, she does her best to amend them. Tris is no longer that insecure girl who didn't know what choice to make. Now, she's a strong, brave, confident woman who isn't afraid of what the future might bring. She knows that she's ready to face whatever situation life throws her way. 

Tobias, on the other hand, seems to be less secure than he was in previous books. Or maybe, he was always that way, but we never saw it in his perspective. After a secret is revealed about what he really is, he starts to doubt himself. He begins to think that he's less of a man than he was in the past. He has trouble coming to terms with this new information throughout the novel, which eventually leads him to do things that he originally wouldn't have done. But this is heading into spoilery area, so I'll leave you with that.

Like every other novel in the Divergent trilogy, Allegiant was impossible to put down. Even though it was much more predictable, considering the fact that I was spoiled about it beforehand, I was engaged in it nonetheless. Although I admit, I was surprised that Roth decided to place like 90% of her story outside the city.

Overall, I enjoyed reading Allegiant and didn't consider it a waste of my time, despite the heart-breaking ending. I was a bit confused on my feelings right after reading the book, because my mind couldn't decide whether I actually enjoyed it or not. However, after the whole story sank in, I finally decided that I did like it, even though it caused me permanent emotional damage. I might've had a different opinion if I wasn't spoiled about the ending before, but since that unfortunately did happen, I already expected it. Hence, taking away any surprise on my part. However, I'm not going to hold that against the book itself, because that's obviously no fault on Veronica's part. Only advice I have for anyone who is planning on actually reading the novel is that you stop reading reviews, because you definitely do NOT want to be spoiled on a novel like this one.

Tris- 6/5
Tobias- 4/5
Supporting Characters- 5/5
Action- 4.5/5
Romance- 4/5
Writing- 3.5/5
Took me a while to get used to.
Overall- 4/5
I'm happy, yet unhappy, with how this story ended.

Taliesin Ascendant by Megan Peterson

Reading Level: Ages 12 and up
Paperback: 370 Pages
Release Date: July 27, 2013
Publisher: Self-Published
Narration: Third Person: Ashe, Harris, Cole
Genre: Paranormal/Wizards
Challenge: Paranormal
Source: Author

The Children and the Blood Series:
Book One: The Children and the Blood
Book Two: Taliesin Ascendant
Book Three: Unknown

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Goodreads Synopsis:

The war isn't over.

And new enemies await. 

Life on the run hasn't been easy, but so far, Ashe has survived. But now Carter has ordered her to leave the Hunters and find her family's people – an order she can't refuse, no matter how much she wants to stay. 

Following his command will bring her into an unknown world, however – a world filled with new enemies and old prejudices that will demand more of her than she can imagine, at a cost higher than she'll ever be willing to pay.

My Review:  

Unfortunately, I haven't listened to my own advice of writing a review as soon as I finished reading a novel. Pro procrastinator, for the win. BUT! But! It's not entirely my fault, because I've been busy busy busy with the new school year and all, trying not to fall behind on my ever-growing pile of schoolwork. However, I can't blame my laziness completely on my homework, because a major portion of it is just my inability to think up a good review. For the most part, I just stare blankly at my screen, wondering what the hell I'm going to write next. To all my fellow book bloggers out there, have you ever experienced a similar problem?

Anyways, now that I've spent a whole paragraph rambling as I always do, let's get onto the story, shall we? Prior to reading the sequel, I enjoyed, but admittedly did not fall in love with, The Children and the Blood. Magic has always intrigued me endlessly, which is one of the main reasons why I agreed to review these novels and what originally dragged me into the storyline to begin with. After all the books I've feverishly read, which is quite a bit, I still have never encountered a story focused specifically on Merlin mythology, until now. Of course, you have your traditional wizard and witch novels where the protagonist is distantly related to the Merlin bloodline in some fashion, but those novels never go in depth into the actual tales and myths. They toss out the name as a passing comment and never develop it any farther then that. That's one of the aspects that stood out to me so much in Megan's works. And if you were still disappointed by the lack of history and world-building in The Children and The Blood, then you will definitely enjoy Taliesin Ascendant a whole lot more.

This story was still told in multiple POVs, but Ashe's voice quickly became the most prominent. It's become abundantly clear, that although this story has it's important supporting roles, it is still very much focused on her and her struggle to discover who she really is. Ashe both inexplicably annoyed me, yet earned my respect. I'm really having some mixed feelings about her. At times, I wondered how she could be so selfish and inconsiderate, yet at others, I could see the potential and markings of a truly extraordinary leader. There's a bit more character growth, but she still has a looong way to go before she comes anywhere near the exceptional queen she's meant to be. Countless moments, I wanted to tell her to build up a better argument in convincing the counsel that the Blood exist, other then saying, "I know what I saw," repetitively. You already know the counsel is horrifically prejudice and have a outdated method of thinking, so please use your common sense and find a better way of showing them. However, out of all the feelings I felt for her, pity would probably be the most frequent one. It seems like every time something starts to go her way, something horrible happens just to spite her. Luck, is definitely not on her side.

The officer, Harris. Gah. I got so angry with him every time the POV was switched to him, because of the huge web of lies he's tangled up in. And every stinking day, it just keeps on getting worse! Obviously, it's not his fault for unknowingly running in the wrong circles, but it still infuriates me every time he badmouthes Ashe in some way. I have literally lost count of all the times I had to set down the book, bury my head in my pillow, and yell "NOOOOOOOO! DON'T BELIEVE THEM, I BEG OF YOU." Of course, since he is a fictional character, he didn't have the ability to hear my desperate, fervent pleas. 

*SPOILER ALERT* When Ash had captured him, I really really really wished that she cleared the air between them. (Wanted it so badly that I had to use not one, but three reallys to express my point.) In fact, I was 100% sure that it was going to happen and that everything would be rainbows and unicorns, but IT DIDN'T! I was pretty much set on giving up on life right then and there. The agony. *SPOILER END*

The writing style was wonderful, and if I daresay, improved. The passages flowed imperceptibly smoother, and I never had to pause awkwardly at the end of a sentence. Fluid, continuous sentences are something I very much admire about this author in particular, because it's so rare to find that trait in a writer, even less in a self-published one. However, I was disappointed that she still resorted to using the same phrases over and over again. By the time I finished this book, I had the suspicion that there was something very wrong with the eyebrows of every character in this book. Because literally, every page, at least someone "furrowed their eyebrows in confusion." I have no problem with an author peppering a similar phrase throughout the novel, but when it's used too often, it gets really aggravating.

The action was pretty well done, and I found myself pacing back and forth from excitement more than once. The fighting scenes were engaging, and I could actually picture everything that was enfolding within my own mind. Some plot twists were seen a mile away, while others....took me completely by surprise.

Overall, this wasn't a bad read. I enjoyed it quite thoroughly and loved learning more about the interesting world these wizards reside in. Although I probably won't be rereading this novel in the nearby future, I will most certainly pick up a copy of the last installment in this series!

*Huge thank you to the author for sending me a copy in exchange for a honest and thoughtful review.*

Cover- 2.5/5
The fire is relevant to the story, but it's a bit bland.
Heroine - 3.5/5
Has a lot of potential
but still needs work.
Romance- None
Surprisingly no romance, but it isn't needed. This story is great on its own.
Action- 4/5
Writing- 4/5
Smooth, Fluid.
Overall- 3.5/5

Blog Tour + Giveaway: Kinslayer by Jay Kristoff

Reading Level: Ages 14 and up
Paperback: 432 Pages
Release Date: September 17, 2013
Publisher: Thomas Dunne Books
Narration: Third Person: Everyone
Genre: Japanese Mythology
Challenge: Mythology
Source: Publisher

The Lotus War Series:
Book One: Stormdancer
Book Two: Kinslayer
Book Three: Untitled (2014)

Order On Amazon: Hardcover
                              Kindle
Order On Barnes and Noble:
Hardcover and Nook

Goodreads Synopsis:

A SHATTERED EMPIRE

The mad Shōgun Yoritomo has been assassinated by the Stormdancer Yukiko, and the threat of civil war looms over the Shima Imperium. The Lotus Guild conspires to renew the nation’s broken dynasty and crush the growing rebellion simultaneously – by endorsing a new Shōgun who desires nothing more than to see Yukiko dead.

A DARK LEGACY

Yukiko and the mighty thunder tiger Buruu have been cast in the role of heroes by the Kagé rebellion. But Yukiko herself is blinded by rage over her father’s death, and her ability to hear the thoughts of beasts is swelling beyond her power to control. Along with Buruu, Yukiko’s anchor is Kin, the rebel Guildsman who helped her escape from Yoritomo’s clutches. But Kin has his own secrets, and is haunted by visions of a future he’d rather die than see realized.

A GATHERING STORM

Kagé assassins lurk within the Shōgun’s palace, plotting to end the new dynasty before it begins. A waif from Kigen’s gutters begins a friendship that could undo the entire empire. A new enemy gathers its strength, readying to push the fracturing Shima imperium into a war it cannot hope to survive. And across raging oceans, amongst islands of black glass, Yukiko and Buruu will face foes no katana or talon can defeat.

The ghosts of a blood-stained past.

My Review:

The second I flipped to the first page, I instinctively knew that Kinslayer would be the novel to bring me out of my month long reading depression. That mourning period of time after you read a really really good novel and feel as if you'll never be able to face another with the same enthusiasm. If you're an old time subscriber, you'd already know that I've been away on vacation in China for the past month, which sadly means that I only had the books that I brought along with me annnnd that I had no way to access my poor, neglected blog. Sucks, I know. But that just made the surprise all the sweeter when I came home to not one....but two ARC copies of Kinslayer...which means that they'll be a giveaway coming up very soon, so stay tuned. :D

One of the awesomely unique aspects of this novel is the character directory in the beginning. Something I desperately needed since I forgot most of the minor characters' names. Along with the names came a brief, but helpful, description of the character and the location they were last seen in at the end of Stormdancer. Another thing that I admired about Jay's novel was that he recapped, in a subtle fashion, the major events that occurred in Stormdancer in a way that jogged your memory but didn't leave you bored to tears or irritatingly patronized by rehearing things that you already knew.

All of the characters in Kinslayer played strong roles leading up to the overall outcome of the novel. And since Jay decided to stick to the third person writing style he used in Stormdancer, we saw from all of their perspectives and how the rebellion affected each and every single one of their lives. This tactic.....was both good and bad in my eyes, because yes, I definitely enjoyed knowing what was happening to each character.....but at the same time I was itching to skim pages because my mind was more set on hearing Yukiko's story then that of the other peoples.

I fell in love with most of the characters because they were such capable, independent people, people that you'd aspire to be one day, minus all the killing of course. Even though they were bad a, they were still vulnerable in their own ways, even Michi, who scared the shit out of me sometimes with her ruthlessness. However, the things she did only made me respect her character all the more. After everything that's happened in her past, she's not willing to take chances on anyone any longer. She does whatever is needed for the sake of survival, manipulating the people around her into thinking she's just a helpless young girl seeking some semblance of direction in her life when there's a lethal, cold-blooded killer hiding just below the surface instead. And Yukiko? There were so many times that I found myself being crushed by all the feels when I saw Yukiko losing herself piece by piece to the fury within her after all that happened with her father. Even though life kept throwing seemingly unconquerable obstacles in her way, tripping her over and over again, she still got up and kept fighting, even when most of the world would have just given up.

Jay's unique writing style was both a blessing and a curse. A blessing because he always spoke in a melodious, poetic, and elegant way, even when spouting off a joke. Therefore, making the story flow from page to page in a seamless way. There weren't any awkward pauses or stilted sentences whatsoever which I was grateful for. However, it was also a curse, because with so many descriptive details, so much world-building, it made the plot drag a little bit. Nowhere near the way it dragged in the first novel, but still enough to be noticed from time to time.

Overall, Kinslayer was a great read that I thoroughly enjoyed, perhaps even more then its predecessor. The twists, turns, and jaw-dropping betrayals had me sobbing hysterically and punching walls. It's truly a rare thing to take me completely by surprise without at least a vague notion of what's going to happen next, but Jay succeeded in doing it anyways. The comedy was absolutely hilarious, best I've seen in a long time. Jay has his very own special type of humor that I just couldn't get enough of. Adding to that, this novel also had a badass, katana wielding heroine and revolved around an amazing Japanese culture centered theme. Love. Love. LOVE. Will be eagerly awaiting to discover where Yukiko and Burruu's adventures will lead me next.

Heroine- 5/5

Action- 4.5/5

Romance- N/A

There is romance....

but it's a little hard to explain.

Comedy- 6/5

Couldn't get enough of it.

Theme- 6/5 Super unique.

Overall- 4.5/5

About The Author:

Jay Kristoff is a Perth-born, Melbourne-based author. His first trilogy, THE LOTUS WAR, was purchased in the three-way auction by US publishing houses in 2011. He is as surprised about it as you are. The first installment, STORMDANCER, is set to be published in September 2012 in the US, UK and Australia.

Jay is 6’7, has approximately 13870 days to live and does not believe in happy endings.

Find The Author:

Goodreads  Website  Twitter  Facebook

Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Hover by Melissa West

Reading Level: Ages 12 and up
Hardcover: 352 Pages
Release Date: August 13, 2013
Publisher: Entangled Teen
Narration: First Person: Ari
Genre: Paranormal/Dystopian
Challenge: Paranormal/Dystopian
Source: Netgalley

The Taking Series:
Book One: Gravity
Book Two: Hover
Book Three: Collide (2014)

Order On Amazon: Paperback
                              Kindle
Order On Barnes and Noble:
Paperback and Nook

Author's
Goodreads  Website  Twitter

Goodreads Synopsis:

On Earth, seventeen-year-old Ari Alexander was taught to never peek, but if she hopes to survive life on her new planet, Loge, her eyes must never shut. Because Zeus will do anything to save the Ancients from their dying planet, and he has a plan. 

Thousands of humans crossed over to Loge after a poisonous neurotoxin released into Earth's atmosphere, nearly killing them. They sought refuge in hopes of finding a new life, but what they became were slaves, built to wage war against their home planet. That is, unless Ari and Jackson can stop them. But on Loge, nothing is as it seems...and no one can be trusted.

My Review:

I guess my expectations were just a little too high for this one. Don't get me wrong, I wasn't anywhere near hating it, but I definitely was no where close to loving it either. To me, this was just another unfortunate case to suffer from second book syndrome. I can't even put my finger on what I disliked about this novel, it just felt off in some way. It didn't have my pulse running or have me anxiously pressing the next page button on my Kindle. It was just a "meh" read that was lacking a lot of "oomph".

Hover starts off pretty much exactly where Gravity left off. If felt as if it was simply a continuation of the first novel, and that no time had passed at all, despite the year gap we actually did spend waiting for it. Usually, I have no problem with that, because authors generally take it into their interests to subtly recap the important events in the previous novel, but as you can already guess, that didn't happen here. If I had read both of these books together, I would've obviously remembered all of the names and the plot from the previous novel. However, since that wasn't the case, I was left floundering around, wondering what the hell was going on.

Throughout most of the book, Ari questioned herself as a leader and whether or not she was capable enough of leading a full-blown rebellion. Which to me, was understandable. I mean, if I was in her place, I'd be rocking back and forth in a corner, hardly able to function properly from the stress of being responsible for the lives of not one, but two freaking planets. Although she was a strong, unbendable character at times, there were also numerous times when I wanted to smack some sense into her thick brain. She's so smart, yet so unbelievably stupid and naive. Use your brain, girl!

There wasn't as much fighting as I was hoping for, however, there was just enough to satisfy my bloodthirst. xD But despite the fact that there was always something happening, I never felt emotionally involved or connected with the storyline. I was reading it and comprehending the sentences, but at the same time, it was just going through one ear and out the other. There was no substance to hold onto.

The part I was looking forward to the most, was surprisingly the romance, a topic I usually don't make a lot of fuss about. But something about the camaraderie and connection these two had in the first novel had me practically drooling for more. They were so perfect for each other! However, what I actually got in Hover didn't even come near to meeting my expectations. They were constantly switching back and forth between hating then loving each other. Enough to actually give me a headache and put down the novel a few times. I really hope Melissa is able to bring the relationship back to what it was in Gravity. Ari and Jackson have so much potential!

Overall, I'm just....disappointed. It was alright if you graded it independently, but compared to it's predecessor, Hover was depressingly lacking in every department. Will I still be reading the last book in the series? Of course. But I'll be more guarded for disappointment this time.

*An ARC was provided by Netgalley in exchange for a honest and thoughtful review.

Heroine- 3/5
Action- 3/5
Romance- 2.5/5
Writing- 3.5/5
Overall- 3/5

(M) Branded by Abi Ketner & Missy Kalicicki

Reading Level: Ages 14 and up
Paperback: 318 Pages
Release Date: June 28, 2013
Publisher: Self-Published
Narration: First Person: Lexi
Genre: New Adult Dystopian
Challenge: Dystopian
Source: Netgalley

The Sinners Series:
Book One: Branded
Book Two: Untitled
Book Three: Untitled

Order On Amazon: Paperback
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Order On Barnes and Noble:
Nook

Abi's
Goodreads  Website  Twitter

Missy's
Goodreads  Website  Twitter

Goodreads Synopsis:

Fifty years ago the Commander came into power and murdered all who opposed him. In his warped mind, the seven deadly sins were the downfall of society. He created the Hole where sinners are branded according to their sins and might survive a few years. At best. 

Now LUST wraps around my neck like blue fingers strangling me. I’ve been accused of a crime I didn’t commit and now the Hole is my new home. 

Darkness. Death. Violence. Pain. 

Now every day is a fight for survival. But I won’t die. I won’t let them win.

The Hole can’t keep me. The Hole can’t break me. 

I am more than my brand. I’m a fighter. 

My name is Lexi Hamilton, and this is my story.

My Mini Review:

Since I marked this novel as a DNF, this review only reflects the portion that I read.

I loved the dystopian world that Abi created, but I wasn't too crazy about how it was executed. This novel had serious potential, but unfortunately, it fell flat. The heroine kept on telling herself to stay strong, which was admirable, but her actions contradicted her words. The romance, if you can even call it a romance, grated on my nerves. It isn't quite able to be labeled an Insta-Love, but it was close enough. Considering her location, her past, and his position in The Hole, the relationship they had was unrealistic and not even the slightest bit believable, at least in my opinion. And even if I was able to overlook a romance that had no foundation, it was hard to believe that she cared about him at all by the impulsive actions she took, never hesitating to put both their lives, as well as her friends' lives, in harms way.

Heroine- 1.5/5
Romance- 1/5 
Action- 1.5/5
A lot of things were happening, but I just couldn't bring myself to care.
Overall- 1/5