★★★★★—Ink and Bone by Rachel Caine

"In an exhilarating new series, New York Times bestselling author Rachel Caine rewrites history, creating a dangerous world where the Great Library of Alexandria has survived the test of time.…

Ruthless and supremely powerful, the Great Library is now a presence in every major city, governing the flow of knowledge to the masses. Alchemy allows the Library to deliver the content of the greatest works of history instantly—but the personal ownership of books is expressly forbidden.

Jess Brightwell believes in the value of the Library, but the majority of his knowledge comes from illegal books obtained by his family, who are involved in the thriving black market. Jess has been sent to be his family’s spy, but his loyalties are tested in the final months of his training to enter the Library’s service.When he inadvertently commits heresy by creating a device that could change the world, Jess discovers that those who control the Great Library believe that knowledge is more valuable than any human life—and soon both heretics and books will burn.…" (Goodreads)
My Review
★★★★★

Actual rating: 4.5 stars. Very close to 5, but 4.5, if only for the slow start and the questions I still have/the rules that I still don't understand.

Thanks to the Penguin First To Read program for providing me with an e-galley in exchange for an honest review.

Ink and Bone follows Jess Brightwell, the son of a book smuggler in an alternate society where to own a book—an actualprinted book—is illegal. After watching a man eat a priceless book at the age of ten, Jess wants out of the life. But it's difficult for him to break free of his family business, especially when his family sends him away to become a postulant for the Library. "The Library" refers to the Library of Alexandria, which, in this society, was never burned down. What would have happened if it were never burned down?

A corrupt, all-powerful yet power-hungry political system is what developed, that's what.

Seriously. The extent that the Archivist and their disciples go to keep their power and control over world knowledge is insane. Their view is that books and knowledge should be valued more than human lives. I certainly have my own opinions about that.

There are many key players in Ink and Bone. Since I love characters and character development, I'll focus on them first. We've got a really diverse cast of characters here, each brilliant and sort-of endearing in their own ways.

Jess: Our protagonist, from London. It is so easy to identify with Jess. He's sympathetic and clever and hates being used. And I found I only wanted the best for him. He definitely has to make some tough decisions about who to trust and what to do. He's blunt and serious and is definitely loyal. You feel so bad for him when he makes wrong decisions; and he does make wrong decisions.

Khalila: Don't fuck with this chick. She's a brilliant mathematician, smart and quick-witted, and overall skilled. She's an Arab and wears a hijab. She is caring and sweet, but that doesn't make her any less dangerous.

Thomas: Oh man, Thomas. The German gentle giant. He's an engineer with visions for the future, and a great way of looking at the world. His automaton chess set is fantastic. **SPOILER** [Damn, of all the characters, I thought that Thomas, at least, would make it out alive. :( I thought Dario would die just after we got to like him, but THOMAS? :'( sweetheart.]

Dario: The rich, spoiled Spaniard. He's Jess's roommate at Ptolemy House, and boy do they not hit it off at all. Dario is the kind of guy you love to hate, but then you can't help but like him as he becomes not-so-hateable. As much as he and Jess tell each other they're not friends, they become friends, and that makes me happy.

Guillaume: The American/Frenchman. He's clever and sweet, and that's pretty much all I have to say right now.

Glain: The strong Welsh girl who is always at odds with Jess (English/Welsh war going on, tensions are high). Her sour attitude gradually fades, but she's still rough around the edges. She does have a heart, though it doesn't come out until later.

Morgan: Morgan is another English person, from Oxford. She's a latecomer to the group, but she's definitely the most powerful. She's got her secrets, as do all of them.

Scholar Christopher Wolfe: The group's teacher, born in Alexandria. He's bitter and ill-tempered, overly professional, and yet... I grew to like him as Jess did. (Or as the excerpts from the Black Archives revealed things to me.) Many secrets were revealed about him, but none more surprising than... well... You shouldn't judge him for that secret before you get to know him first. **SPOILER** [Him and Niccolo Santi???? I did not see that coming! :D I giggled because the casual names between them suddenly made sense.]

Captain Niccolo Santi: A soldier with a surprising amount of heart and empathy. But, as a soldier, he has a hell of a lot of discipline.

So those are the main characters that stood out to me. I liked them a lot; I loved the diversity and the little language inserts here and there. I'm not so much a fan of the religion talk, but that stuff was minimal enough that it was alright.

Plotwise, there's not much wrong with it. There are certain things that don't make a lot of sense, like what is it exactly that Obscurists do? I'm not entirely sure. It's not well explained, but it seems like magic, although it says it's not magic. Also, what's going on with Brendan? Although, I'm sure that'll be explained in the second or third book. I think I understand how the Burners work, but I don't understand completely. Overall, I just want everything explained in more depth. I like learning everything there is to know about a book. I like gleaning everything.

Overall, this book was well-written with sympathetic characters. It took me a bit to get into it because it was a little slow going at first, but once it picked up, I was glad to finish it. I can't wait for the sequel... and the first book isn't even out yet. Oh, no. I've got a while to wait, haven't I.

★★★—Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover

"When Tate Collins meets airline pilot Miles Archer, she knows it isn’t love at first sight. They wouldn’t even go so far as to consider themselves friends. The only thing Tate and Miles have in common is an undeniable mutual attraction. Once their desires are out in the open, they realize they have the perfect set-up. He doesn’t want love, she doesn’t have time for love, so that just leaves the sex. Their arrangement could be surprisingly seamless, as long as Tate can stick to the only two rules Miles has for her.

Never ask about the past.
Don’t expect a future.

They think they can handle it, but realize almost immediately they can’t handle it at all.

Hearts get infiltrated.
Promises get broken.
Rules get shattered.
Love gets ugly." (Goodreads)


My Review:
★★★

I got through this book very quickly. It was my first taste into New Adult (I think it's New Adult? Or is it just Adult? I think it's pretty close to just flat-out adult...) I liked it, enough to where I was curious enough about where this story was going to not be able to put it down until 315am. And I was crying around 245am. Thanks, Colleen.

That said...

After thinking about it after I finished it, I realized there was literally one thing carrying this novel forward. Miles. I was so curious about his past and what happened to him to fuck him up so badly, and as his POV chapters progressed, I kept making guesses. I kept making guesses and my guesses were almost all wrong. Which is a good thing. Miles was one of the most sympathetic characters in this book—scratch that, the most. (Rachel counts... but she kind of doesn't count because she doesn't come in until a lot later)

So, Miles sees Tate and accidentally falls in love/has an attraction toward her because... she's hot? I guess? This guy doesn't even know her at all. And Tate returns the attraction because... he's hot? And she hasn't gotten laid in a while? Meh. Whatever. Book is book.

Tate is really not a memorable character. She may be the protagonist, but she's kind of bland and a bit boring, and only exists for the 'romance'. She has no social life, and I barely remember what she looks like. She's not the protagonist, really. Ugly Love is a character study of Miles Archer. He has an arc. Tate does not. She exists to unravel Miles, and she doesn't even do that. His backstory does. I didn't find myself rooting for Tate, and that's sad. Because I feel like she had potential.

I kind of liked Cap? I don't have much to say about him. He's like Cap Ex Machina. And then there's Ian, who's barely there. And Dillon, who really serves no purpose. And right, there's Corbin.

I also feel like the back of the book gave me conflicting expectations. I expected them to be friends with benefits, and then gradually both of them get feelings for each other. But Tate had feelings for him right off the back because... he's hot? And mysterious? Whatever. It was really obvious from the beginning that Miles is in love with Tate (for some reason) but for some reason doesn't want love in his life. But he sure doesn't act like it. The first time they're together, it's obvious to everyone he fell in love with her. When they're together, he acts like she's a girlfriend, not just a fuckbuddy. It's like... bro, who are you kidding? AND after six years of NO action at all, he's excellent? I mean, great, but... I'm not really buying it.

Also... The sex. It's not that graphic (thank god) but... So. Much. Sex. Like, almost every page. I mean, granted, this genre is NOT what I'm used to, but wow is there really that much in these kinds of novels? It got uncomfortable for me after a while. I was thinking "Do you people do anything else besides fuck?" I found myself impatiently waiting for Miles' flashback chapters. Because those were far more interesting than what was going on in the present day.

All in all... A quick, easy read (if not uncomfortable at times). Miles' story is heartbreaking, but his is the only one that is. I felt no sympathy for/I did not care at all about Tate.

Is Ugly Love a perfect novel? Far from it. But it was ok. I liked it. Glad I read it.

★★★★★—I'll Give You The Sun by Jandy Nelson

"A brilliant, luminous story of first love, family, loss, and betrayal for fans of John Green, David Levithan, and Rainbow Rowell

Jude and her twin brother, Noah, are incredibly close. At thirteen, isolated Noah draws constantly and is falling in love with the charismatic boy next door, while daredevil Jude cliff-dives and wears red-red lipstick and does the talking for both of them. But three years later, Jude and Noah are barely speaking. Something has happened to wreck the twins in different and dramatic ways . . . until Jude meets a cocky, broken, beautiful boy, as well as someone else—an even more unpredictable new force in her life. The early years are Noah's story to tell. The later years are Jude's. What the twins don't realize is that they each have only half the story, and if they could just find their way back to one another, they’d have a chance to remake their world.

This radiant novel from the acclaimed, award-winning author of The Sky Is Everywhere will leave you breathless and teary and laughing—often all at once." (Goodreads)

My Review:
★★★★★

This book. When I first started reading it, I didn't expect to get so emotionally invested in this book. But I did. So now I'm here.

Noah: Telling the story from age 13-14.
Jude: Telling the story from age 16.

This book is all about putting yourself together again after you've fallen apart. Jude tells the 'back together' part, Noah tells the 'falling apart' part. After their mother dies, the twins essentially switch personalities. Jude, while eccentric, was popular, while 'Bubble' Noah was the freak of the school. By age 16, Jude is the eccentric loner, while Noah is involved in sports and is essentially friends with all of Jude's old friends. While they were inseparable when they were younger, NoahandJude have split into Noah and Jude. Which, by the end, isn't such a bad thing. Jude proved that with an electric saw.

This novel was beautifully done. Each twin has a very distinctive voice. Differentiating between voices is something I've seen poorly done in the past, so I approached with caution. (I'm not even going to deny I'm talking about Allegiant) But Nelson does a wonderful job with these twins.

The whole book is a puzzle trying to help the reader put it back together. I called who 'Dearest' was relatively early on, and was pleasantly validated. When the truths all unfold at the end, it makes for a very satisfying — if not bittersweet — ending.

Overall, it was wonderful. There were times I was rooting for one twin over the other, but then it switched on me. At first, I loved Noah more because he was more sympathetic. But then we got deeper into Jude's POV, and I felt such sympathy for her, and then Noah started lashing out as his world crumbled... I don't know which I prefer, and it really doesn't matter, now does it?

EDIT: OH AND OSCAR HOW COULD I FORGET ABOUT THAT MESS? I think Oscar is a very convoluted, if not fucked-up, character. He's so tormented and he can be such an asshole... It's wonderful to see him try to turn it around for Jude. And G. is great, too. Poor guy.

Everyone in this book has something shitty happen to them. There really are no villain— okay, I lied. Fry can fry for all I care. And Zephyr... Meh. He doesn't score high on my 'approval' rating, but he's better than Fry. That dick.

★★★★—Zodiac by Romina Russell

"At the dawn of time, there were 13 Houses in the Zodiac Galaxy. Now only 12 remain….

Rhoma Grace is a 16-year-old student from House Cancer with an unusual way of reading the stars. While her classmates use measurements to make accurate astrological predictions, Rho can’t solve for ‘x’ to save her life—so instead, she looks up at the night sky and makes up stories.

When a violent blast strikes the moons of Cancer, sending its ocean planet off-kilter and killing thousands of citizens—including its beloved Guardian—Rho is more surprised than anyone when she is named the House’s new leader. But, a true Cancerian who loves her home fiercely and will protect her people no matter what, Rho accepts.

Then, when more Houses fall victim to freak weather catastrophes, Rho starts seeing a pattern in the stars. She suspects Ophiuchus—the exiled 13th Guardian of Zodiac legend—has returned to exact his revenge across the Galaxy. Now Rho—along with Hysan Dax, a young envoy from House Libra, and Mathias, her guide and a member of her Royal Guard—must travel through the Zodiac to warn the other Guardians.

But who will believe anything this young novice says? Whom can Rho trust in a universe defined by differences? And how can she convince twelve worlds to unite as one Zodiac?

Embark on a dazzling journey with ZODIAC, the first novel in an epic sci-fi-meets-high-fantasy series set in a galaxy inspired by the astrological signs." (Goodreads) (Read from February 14-19, 2015)

My Review:
★★★★

It took me a while to buy into the world, but once I finally did, it was an enjoyable read. And I'm not a fan of love triangles, but this one... I don't know, I didn't mind so much. It didn't feel forced, which I liked. The relationships and characters felt organic and well-developed, which I appreciate. And the romance was never transcendental, I feel. Overall, a good read. Not perfect, but I'll definitely pick up the second book because I'm interested enough to want to know more.

★★★★★—Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

"On a warm summer morning in North Carthage, Missouri, it is Nick and Amy Dunne’s fifth wedding anniversary. Presents are being wrapped and reservations are being made when Nick’s clever and beautiful wife disappears. Husband-of-the-Year Nick isn’t doing himself any favors with cringe-worthy daydreams about the slope and shape of his wife’s head, but passages from Amy's diary reveal the alpha-girl perfectionist could have put anyone dangerously on edge. Under mounting pressure from the police and the media—as well as Amy’s fiercely doting parents—the town golden boy parades an endless series of lies, deceits, and inappropriate behavior. Nick is oddly evasive, and he’s definitely bitter—but is he really a killer?" (Goodreads)

My Review:
★★★★★

Holy. Fucking. Fuck.

Very well written.

But holy shit.

Nick. Poor Nick.

"Because I feel sorry for you. ... Because every morning, you have to wake up and be you."

Yes.

Oh my god.

This book.

It's not one of my favorites, it's not really my preferred genre. But I'm definitely going to consider reading more of Gillian Flynn's works when I'm in a bit of a better mental state.

★★★★★—The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

"An international sensation, this hilarious, feel-good novel is narrated by an oddly charming and socially challenged genetics professor on an unusual quest: to find out if he is capable of true love.Don Tillman, professor of genetics, has never been on a second date. He is a man who can count all his friends on the fingers of one hand, whose lifelong difficulty with social rituals has convinced him that he is simply not wired for romance. So when an acquaintance informs him that he would make a "wonderful" husband, his first reaction is shock. Yet he must concede to the statistical probability that there is someone for everyone, and he embarks upon The Wife Project. In the orderly, evidence-based manner with which he approaches all things, Don sets out to find the perfect partner. She will be punctual and logical--most definitely not a barmaid, a smoker, a drinker, or a late-arriver.

Yet Rosie Jarman is all these things. She is also beguiling, fiery, intelligent--and on a quest of her own. She is looking for her biological father, a search that a certain DNA expert might be able to help her with. Don's Wife Project takes a back burner to the Father Project and an unlikely relationship blooms, forcing the scientifically minded geneticist to confront the spontaneous whirlwind that is Rosie--and the realization that love is not always what looks good on paper.

"The Rosie Project" is a moving and hilarious novel for anyone who has ever tenaciously gone after life or love in the face of overwhelming challenges." (Goodreads) (read on January 25, 2015)

My Review:
★★★★★

Every so often, you want to curl up with a book that doesn't depress the shit out of you. The Rosie Project is one of those books. While the secondhand embarrassment is strong with this one, it is a feel-good story about two people who are, in Rosie's words, "fucked-up", but who learn to find comfort in each other while growing more in tune with themselves. Were there sad points? Yes. Were there parts that were frustrating beyond belief? Hell yes. But I liked it. I thought it addressed mental illness well, especially told from someone with aspergers' eyes. It's a great book. Read most of it on the plane. Quick, easy, pleasant read, not terribly emotionally draining but I got very very invested in these characters.

★★★★★—Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

"This book took my breath away."
―James Howe, author of The Misfits

Dante can swim. Ari can't. Dante is articulate and self-assured. Ari has a hard time with words and suffers from self-doubt. Dante gets lost in poetry and art. Ari gets lost in thoughts of his older brother who is in prison. Dante is fair skinned. Ari's features are much darker. It seems that a boy like Dante, with his open and unique perspective on life, would be the last person to break down the walls that Ari has built around himself.

But against all odds, when Ari and Dante meet, they develop a special bond that will teach them the most important truths of their lives, and help define the people they want to be. But there are big hurdles in their way, and only by believing in each other―and the power of their friendship―can Ari and Dante emerge stronger on the other side." (Goodreads) (Read from January 6-8, 2015)

My Review:
★★★★★
This book was beautiful. I don't read much "contemporary YA literature" (which this technically isn't, as it takes place in 1987), but honestly I'm going to try and read more of this genre. Sáenz's writing style is so beautiful, so lyrical, and I am always a sucker for uninterrupted dialogue, even when I have to go back and determine who is actually speaking which lines. The story itself is heartwarming (though at times heartbreaking), and it was so easy to identify with Ari. He's someone who shields himself from hurt by trying not to love, and I felt such sympathy and empathy for him. I loved this book. I loved this book. It's so beautiful. Read it.

★★★★★—Tomorrowland by Joseph Bates

"Joseph Bates's debut short story collection Tomorrowland offers stories full of strange attractions and uncanny conceits, a world of freakish former child stars, abused Elvis impersonators, derelict roadside attractions, apocalyptic small towns, and parallel universes where you make out with your ex. At its core, the world of Tomorrowland is our own, though reflected off a funhouse mirror--revealing our hopes and deepest fears to comic, heartbreaking effect." (Goodreads) (Read from December 17-18, 2014)

My Review:
★★★★★

Tomorrowland is a fantastic collection of short stories. I must say my favorites—and the ones that taught me the most about Dr. Bates—have to be Guilt City, A Survey of My Exes, and Future Me. I found them heartwrenching and heartbreaking in their own special ways. It shows that it is entirely possible to be self-aware of yourself and your problems, and clearly the effort is made by each of the narrators to fix himself. It truly explores the human vices and the human desire to better oneself. Each story has a character that is very aware of his own failures, but it is the hope of redemption that keeps him going. Tomorrowland as a collection is a very self-aware, very meta collection of stories, in which Dr. Bates takes the time to examine his own psyche and his own shortcomings, possibly in order to try and improve them.

Any way you look at it, Tomorrowland is an enjoyable, gripping read that truly makes one empathetic for the narrators, which is the sign of an effective, powerful book.

★★★★★—The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not. Within the black-and-white striped canvas tents is an utterly unique experience full of breathtaking amazements. It is called Le Cirque des Rêves, and it is only open at night.

But behind the scenes, a fierce competition is underway: a duel between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who have been trained since childhood expressly for this purpose by their mercurial instructors. Unbeknownst to them both, this is a game in which only one can be left standing. Despite the high stakes, Celia and Marco soon tumble headfirst into love, setting off a domino effect of dangerous consequences, and leaving the lives of everyone, from the performers to the patrons, hanging in the balance." (Goodreads)

My Review

★★★★★

Wow.
Wow.

That is all I can say.

Well, not really.

This book was impossible to put down. It is so beautifully written, I was taking pictures of so many quotes and lines I liked because I don't, as a general principal, like to write in books that I read for fun. (I've only recently gotten into the habit for books I've read for my Contemporary Fiction class.) The characters were engaging and endearing. The story jumped around in such a way that I was constantly clamoring for more, telling myself "One more chapter, then I can sleep." The writing made me want Celia and Marco to obtain happiness together, especially since Hector and Alexander forced them into this "challenge" when they were young for their own selfish purposes. Celia and Marco are wonderful. I adore Poppet and Widget. And I very much adore Bailey.

I am a rêveur after reading this book. Truly.

The pacing was even. The dates at the beginnings of the chapters, while I only glanced at them, are helpful in keeping track of how old people are and when events take place. I found the chapters written in the second person especially gorgeous. My favorite was The Pool of Tears.

The descriptions, I think, are one of my favorite aspects of this book. Beautifully done, with a dreamlike, mystical air to them. I could plainly see the fantastical scenes, the magical tents, the amazing acts of Le Cirque de Rêves. I loved the clock descriptions, the cloud maze, the books, the tarot readings, the man in the grey suit... The man in the grey suit intrigued me. No one notices him or remembers him or can pronounce his name right. It is as though he faded into obscurity. Part of me was hoping his real name would be revealed, but everyone has their secrets. And secrets lose power when you tell them to someone, as Widget so wonderfully puts it. The book is allowed to hide things from me. But I do not like the man in the grey suit. He, like Hector, is a manipulative little... I won't say it. "He has no shadow."

I believe the book has one expletive, and it's on page 3 or 4. It made me laugh, but a bittersweet laugh.

I loved Celia and Marco's witty bantering and their civility and their love of books and of each other. I loved their tenderness and appreciation for one another's talents.

I do believe I relate the most to either Widget or Bailey. Widget is the storyteller. Bailey is the boy who wants out of his humdrum life. I love him and Poppet together.

I'm not sure if I would consider The Night Circus steampunk or not. I don't know if I would call it fantasy. But I would call it fantastic and dazzling, putting on a show until the very last page.

"You are no longer quite certain which side of the fence is the dream."

★★★★★—The Young Elites by Marie Lu

"I am tired of being used, hurt, and cast aside.

Adelina Amouteru is a survivor of the blood fever. A decade ago, the deadly illness swept through her nation. Most of the infected perished, while many of the children who survived were left with strange markings. Adelina’s black hair turned silver, her lashes went pale, and now she has only a jagged scar where her left eye once was. Her cruel father believes she is a malfetto, an abomination, ruining their family’s good name and standing in the way of their fortune. But some of the fever’s survivors are rumored to possess more than just scars—they are believed to have mysterious and powerful gifts, and though their identities remain secret, they have come to be called the Young Elites.

Teren Santoro works for the king. As Leader of the Inquisition Axis, it is his job to seek out the Young Elites, to destroy them before they destroy the nation. He believes the Young Elites to be dangerous and vengeful, but it’s Teren who may possess the darkest secret of all.

Enzo Valenciano is a member of the Dagger Society. This secret sect of Young Elites seeks out others like them before the Inquisition Axis can. But when the Daggers find Adelina, they discover someone with powers like they’ve never seen.

Adelina wants to believe Enzo is on her side, and that Teren is the true enemy. But the lives of these three will collide in unexpected ways, as each fights a very different and personal battle. But of one thing they are all certain: Adelina has abilities that shouldn’t belong in this world. A vengeful blackness in her heart. And a desire to destroy all who dare to cross her.

It is my turn to use. My turn to hurt." (Goodreads) (Read from October 10-12, 2014. Reviewed October 26, 2014.)

My Review

★★★★★

It's not every day you read a story about the inception of a villain.

This book... This book made me so happy. By which, I mean, it was well written—like the Legend Trilogy was—and it has a really kickass protagonist.

But Adelina Amouterou deserves so much better from her life. It's about time she takes from life what life denied her. You go girl. Kick some ass.

So, obviously, I loved Adelina (White Wolf) and I feel so much sympathy for her and her plights. I think I've been on tumblr too much, because I was thinking to myself "Aw, yeah, she's a girl, she's only got one eye, yes protagonists who have scars and wounds that potentially detract from their appearance!" She evolves, over the course of one book, from a scared little girl to an extremely powerful and downright scary magician. Four for you, Adelina. You go, Adelina. I'm so excited to see the power you can wield and the kind of villain you can become. I want her to succeed, which I suppose is the point. I want her to be at least remotely happy.

Violetta... Mixed emotions, which is fine. When it said Violetta wasn't marked by the fever, I didn't actually believe she was actually "unmarked." I knew there had to be something special about her. And I was right. Go Violetta!

Teren. At first, I said to myself, "Teren can go fuck himself." But he's... complicated. Teren is very, shall I say, fucked up in the head? Just a tad? But as the book goes on, he shows, underneath, that there's possibly a sliver of something maybe an inkling of goodness potentially? I'm thinking that if Adelina is slowly forming into a villain, then Teren could possibly turn into the "hero" role? It's entirely possible. But he's got some redeeming to do for himself.

Enzo's sister can go die. That's all I have to say.

And Enzo (Reaper)... **SPOILER** [God, I hope his death isn't permanent.] I liked Enzo a lot. He's a ruthless kind of guy with a bit of a tender side for Tamouran girls. And you know what, everyone has their 'type.' The fact that he could be gentle was appealing. His ferocity comes from intense care for his people, which is just heartwarming. I like Enzo. A lot. Long live the prince. *sniffles*

Raffaele (Messenger) I have mixed feelings about him too. I liked him towards the beginning, then I disliked him, then I liked him again, then I didn't like him much. I mean, towards the beginning, yeah, I get it. This girl has darkness in her heart, we shouldn't take her on. Killing her is a bit extreme, but I understand his point. And towards the end, when he tells her **SPOILER** [Yeah, I told Enzo to kill you at the start. But did he listen to me? Nooooooo.] I thought it was a bit of a dick move. Other than that, he was endearing and charming. He truly is a great character. Very complex.

Dante (Spider) (Son of a bitch). That is all. You little shit. **SPOILER** [I'm glad you're dead you antagonistic fuck.]

Lucent (Windwalker) (admittedly I had to look up her first name) I hope she and Gemma (Star Thief) become more important. They have the potential to be amazing. Gemma's awesome already. Windwalker is a bit tough to handle, but I like her well enough.

All in all, great book. Marie Lu does it again. I am eagerly awaiting the next one with bated breath.

★★★★★—The Blood of Olympus by Rick Riordan

"Though the Greek and Roman crewmembers of the Argo II have made progress in their many quests, they still seem no closer to defeating the earth mother, Gaea. Her giants have risen—all of them—and they're stronger than ever. They must be stopped before the Feast of Spes, when Gaea plans to have two demigods sacrificed in Athens. She needs their blood—the blood of Olympus—in order to wake.

The demigods are having more frequent visions of a terrible battle at Camp Half-Blood. The Roman legion from Camp Jupiter, led by Octavian, is almost within striking distance. Though it is tempting to take the Athena Parthenos to Athens to use as a secret weapon, the friends know that the huge statue belongs back on Long Island, where it "might" be able to stop a war between the two camps.

The Athena Parthenos will go west; the Argo II will go east. The gods, still suffering from multiple personality disorder, are useless. How can a handful of young demigods hope to persevere against Gaea's army of powerful giants? As dangerous as it is to head to Athens, they have no other option. They have sacrificed too much already. And if Gaea wakes, it is game over." (Goodreads) (Read Oct. 10-11, 2014. Reviewed Oct. 26 2014.)

My Review

★★★★★

Percy Jackson.

Percy Jackson was a huge part of my childhood. I started reading The Lightning Thief in 6th or 7th grade, and loved every minute of it. The Battle of the Labyrinth cover provided centerpieces for my bat mitzvah tables. It was only right to see Percy and the gang through until the end.

Blood of Olympus was a very satisfying ending to a wonderful series. I was terrified for it, but then I was relieved when I finally made it to the end. **SPOILER** [I knew Leo survived when Festus blew up. I knew it. That physician's cure wasn't going to go to waste. Rick may have said not all of them would survive, and he was right, but Leo was resurrected which was fantastic and just yay Leo.]

I also thought that **SPOILER** [Gaea was beaten WAY too quickly.] I remember in PJATO, Kronos was resurrected at the end of book 4, so they had to spend all of book 5 figuring out a way to beat him. This wasn't the case in BoO, which I found... a bit anticlimactic I guess? And some parts of the book seemed a bit rushed. But those are my only qualms. Otherwise it was such a nice ending.

The character development. I loved the character development.

Percy: **SPOILER** [FINALLY you say I love you!]
Jason: You grew up so nicely, sweetie!
Piper: Yeah, honey, you kick ass!
Annabeth: Yay girl friendships!
Leo: LEO.
Frank: Not enough Frank, but he had his growth in the last book. He seems more confident now, so yay!
Hazel: Also not enough Hazel kicking ass. But I do love Hazel.
Reyna: BACKSTORY. FINALLY. Love that girl. She's just fantastic. I'd read a book from her perspective.
Nico: Best for last. NI.CO.DI.AN.GE.LO. I love this child. He's just... He's so burdened and feels so alone and now he's ACCEPTED and I love him to pieces. I want, like, a whole series from his point of view. Please. Thanks.

I was happy to see the Seaweed Brain/Wise Girl exchange again. :') I missed that.
Percy and Jason calling each other Bro. That made me smile.
Asclepius' acronyms. MD. PHD. LOL. DDS. BAMF.

Thank you for the years of magic, Rick. I look forward to Magnus Chase.

★★—Ignite Me by Tahereh Mafi (Original Review: July 14, 2014. Addition made on October 24, 2014)

The heart-stopping conclusion to the New York Times bestselling Shatter Me series, which Ransom Riggs, bestselling author of Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children, called “a thrilling, high-stakes saga of self-discovery and forbidden love.”

With Omega Point destroyed, Juliette doesn’t know if the rebels, her friends, or even Adam are alive. But that won’t keep her from trying to take down The Reestablishment once and for all. Now she must rely on Warner, the handsome commander of Sector 45. The one person she never thought she could trust. The same person who saved her life. He promises to help Juliette master her powers and save their dying world . . . but that’s not all he wants with her.

The Shatter Me series is perfect for fans who crave action-packed young adult novels with tantalizing romance like Divergent by Veronica Roth, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, and Legend by Marie Lu. Tahereh Mafi has created a captivating and original story that combines the best of dystopian and paranormal, and was praised by Publishers Weekly as “a gripping read from an author who’s not afraid to take risks.” Now this final book brings the series to a shocking and satisfying end." (Goodreads) (Read February 16, 2014, reviewed July 14, 2014)

My Review

★★

** spoiler alert ** It was okay. Better than I was expecting. Warnette grew on me, they're pretty cute. But the beginning... it was a little hard to get through. I hold fast that Adam's character was paved over, and that people aren't cutting him slack. I'm also not a fan of love triangles as a general thing, but y'know. It happens.

It was alright. I'm glad I finally forced myself to read it.

***ADDITION FROM OCTOBER 24, 2014***

It started out as such a good series. I am pissed that it ended the way it did. To be honest, I didn't give two shits about the love triangle. I didn't want her to end up with either of them. I wanted to learn more about the Reestablishment or whatever that was called, because if I can barely remember what the totalitarian government is called, it's a sad excuse for a dystopia. Look, I love the writing and all that, but the characters... The only ones I cared about were Adam, James and Kenji. And the only reason I didn't care about Warner was because of outside sources, like the freaking fandom. I would've liked Warner as a character if everyone else hadn't been glorifying him and drooling all over him.

The writing is beautiful. The plot/characters/mythology of the society/PRIORITIES leave more to be desired.

#EndOfRant

★★★★★—Percy Jackson's Greek Gods by Rick Riordan, illustrated by John Rocco

"'A publisher in New York asked me to write down what I know about the Greek gods, and I was like, Can we do this anonymously? Because I don't need the Olympians mad at me again. But if it helps you to know your Greek gods, and survive an encounter with them if they ever show up in your face, then I guess writing all this down will be my good deed for the week.' So begins Percy Jackson's Greek Gods, in which the son of Poseidon adds his own magic--and sarcastic asides--to the classics. He explains how the world was created, then gives readers his personal take on a who's who of ancients, from Apollo to Zeus. Percy does not hold back. 'If you like horror shows, blood baths, lying, stealing, backstabbing, and cannibalism, then read on, because it definitely was a Golden Age for all that.' Dramatic full-color illustrations throughout by Caldecott Honoree John Rocco make this volume--a must for home, library, and classroom shelves--as stunning as it is entertaining." (Goodreads)

My review:

★★★★★

Percy Jackson, you sassy mofo. All I can say is wow, so meta. So funny. I loved it. Rick Riordan is who I get my dialogue-writing skills from.

★★★★—The Maze Runner by James Dashner

"If you ain’t scared, you ain’t human.

When Thomas wakes up in the lift, the only thing he can remember is his name. He’s surrounded by strangers—boys whose memories are also gone.

Nice to meet ya, shank. Welcome to the Glade.

Outside the towering stone walls that surround the Glade is a limitless, ever-changing maze. It’s the only way out—and no one’s ever made it through alive.

Everything is going to change.

Then a girl arrives. The first girl ever. And the message she delivers is terrifying.

Remember. Survive. Run." (Goodreads)

My Review:

★★★★

FINALLY finished this book. I didn't stop reading because I wasn't interested, but because of lack of time and lack of book to hold in my hands. I'd taken it out of the library, then had to return it over winter break. Shit happens, I guess.

The book was enjoyable. And Dashner ended it just right, so I'm emotionally invested and wanting to read The Scorch Trials.

Welp. That one goes on the queue. The 60-book-long queue. Essay first. Then Blood of Olympus. Then The Young Elites. Then some other things. Then MAYBE I'll find a copy and find the time to read it.

Damn it, Dashner. You and Allie Condie both ended your books where I was emotionally invested and curious. You assholes.

Just kidding. You're awesome.

★★★★★—Every Day by David Levithan

"Every day a different body. Every day a different life. Every day in love with the same girl.

There’s never any warning about where it will be or who it will be. A has made peace with that, even established guidelines by which to live: Never get too attached. Avoid being noticed. Do not interfere.

It’s all fine until the morning that A wakes up in the body of Justin and meets Justin’s girlfriend, Rhiannon. From that moment, the rules by which A has been living no longer apply. Because finally A has found someone he wants to be with—day in, day out, day after day." (Goodreads) (Read in July, 2014)

My Review

★★★★★

I loved it. I really did. It's not often that I love books that don't have happy endings, but you know, that's the way this one had to be. I'm heartbroken, but I understand why.

Well written. Really tugged on the heartstrings. I was easily attached to the characters. Beautifully done.

★★★★★—City of Stairs by Robert Jackson Bennett

A densely atmospheric and intrigue-filled fantasy novel of living spies, dead gods, buried histories, and a mysterious, ever-changing city-from one of America's most acclaimed young SF writers.

Years ago, the city of Bulikov wielded the powers of the Gods to conquer the world. But after its divine protectors were mysteriously killed, the conqueror has become the conquered; the city's proud history has been erased and censored, progress has left it behind, and it is just another colonial outpost of the world's new geopolitical power. Into this musty, backward city steps Shara Thivani. Officially, the quiet mousy woman is just another lowly diplomat sent by Bulikov's oppressors. Unofficially, Shara is one of her country's most accomplished spymasters-dispatched to investigate the brutal murder of a seemingly harmless historian. As Shara pursues the mystery through the ever-shifting physical and political geography of the city, she begins to suspect that the beings who once protected Bulikov may not be as dead as they seem-and that her own abilities might be touched by the divine as well." (Goodreads)

My Review

★★★★★

This book was fantastic. Fantastic. It's hard to put my feelings into words, but this book was fantastic.

First off, the main character, Shara 'Thivani'. She is wonderful. She's not described as "womanly". She is an academic and an excellent spy. She wears glasses, and has darker skin. She is a refreshing change to the women of fiction, and at times I forgot this book was written by a man. Shara is fierce and proud, but not too proud to ask for help. It's a good trait that occasionally gets her in trouble—she trusts people nearly to a fault. She is overcurious. I love Shara. She is truly the hero of this book.

However, Sigrud. SIGRUD. Sigrud is just... I want a "secretary" like Sigrud. I love his snarky one-liners and his attitude, and his unabashedness. In this case, his backstory wasn't shoved down my throat to make me pity him. His backstory made me appreciate who he is more. He refuses to die and astounds and infuriates the doctors. (And I predicted something about him too.) Just... Sigrud. Sigrud.

And Vo. Vohannes. (I'm pronouncing it like Vo-Hahn in my head, not Vo-Han-Nez, because I was thinking Johannes Gutenberg—whatever) I liked Vo. He's a bit of a slut, but you know what, that's okay. His heart is clearly in the right place. He couldn't have betrayed Shara in Bulikov. Never. And I haven't been in disbelief about a character's fate before Vo's. I had hope for the man.

Fuck you, Vinya.

And you go, Mulaghesh. Four for you, Mulaghesh.

All in all, this book was very well written. Admittedly, it took me a little while to get into the story because I was thrown into the world without a clue as to who the Divinities were and how the Continent and Saypur were split up. But I figured it out as I went, which I feel was advantageous to telling the story of the City of Stairs. I loved the mythology once I figured out who was who and what was what and who killed whom. I loved that the conflicts felt so... so human.

I also was a fan of the religious aspects. The followers of Kolkan, I (sort of) hate to say it, remind me a lot of religious extremists—my first thought was Christians, if I'm going to be completely honest. And Bennett's tone in the book seemed disdainful of religion. He encourages questioning it, something that I have always been taught. "Did god(s) create man, or did man create god(s)?" Bennett's answer is that both are true. Man needs god(s), and god(s) need man. It is a neverending circle.

I believe this climbed the list to be my favorite book. I mean it. It's a fantastic read and anyone who picks it up and is a fan of this genre crisscrossing (sic-fi, fantasy, spy, mystery) will enjoy it. Maybe not as much as I did, but they'll definitely like it.

★★★—The Last Song by Eva Wiseman

"Spain had been one of the world’s most tolerant societies for eight hundred years, but that way of life was wiped out by the Inquisition. Isabel’s family feels safe from the terrors, torture, and burnings. After all, her father is a respected physician in the court of Ferdinand and Isabella. Isabel was raised as a Catholic and doesn’t know that her family’s Jewish roots may be a death sentence. When her father is arrested by Torquemada, the Grand Inquisitor, she makes a desperate plan to save his life – and her own.

Once again, master storyteller Eva Wiseman brings history to life in this riveting and tragic novel." (Goodreads)

My Review

★★★

The writing was very good, and the premise was interesting. I liked the idea of a girl discovering that she had Jewish heritage at the height of the Spanish Inquisition. The only thing that I feel was "off" about it is the pacing. I can't quite put my finger on why, but the pacing was weird. Nonetheless, I couldn't stop reading it because I was excited to know what was about to happen next. Well done.

★★—The Summer Prince by Alaya Dawn Johnson

"A heart-stopping story of love, death, technology, and art set amid the tropics of a futuristic Brazil.

The lush city of Palmares Três shimmers with tech and tradition, with screaming gossip casters and practiced politicians. In the midst of this vibrant metropolis, June Costa creates art that’s sure to make her legendary. But her dreams of fame become something more when she meets Enki, the bold new Summer King. The whole city falls in love with him (including June’s best friend, Gil). But June sees more to Enki than amber eyes and a lethal samba. She sees a fellow artist.

Together, June and Enki will stage explosive, dramatic projects that Palmares Três will never forget. They will add fuel to a growing rebellion against the government’s strict limits on new tech. And June will fall deeply, unfortunately in love with Enki. Because like all Summer Kings before him, Enki is destined to die.

Pulsing with the beat of futuristic Brazil, burning with the passions of its characters, and overflowing with ideas, this fiery novel will leave you eager for more from Alaya Dawn Johnson." (Goodreads) (Read in July, 2014)

My Review

★★

Great concept. Poorly executed. Awkward at times, uncomfortable to read. Very confusing and misleading sometimes. I kept having to flip back pages. I heard Alaya Johnson speak about it at BookCon, which is why I was excited about it, but it fell short of my expectations.

★★★★—Matched by Ally Condie

"Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her: what to read, what to watch, what to believe. So when Xander's face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows with complete certainty that he is her ideal mate... until she sees Ky Markham's face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black.

The Society tells her it's a glitch, a rare malfunction, and that she should focus on the happy life she's destined to lead with Xander. But Cassia can't stop thinking about Ky, and as they slowly fall in love, Cassia begins to doubt the Society's infallibility and is faced with an impossible choice: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she's known and a path that no one else has dared to follow." (Goodreads)

My Review

★★★★

Okay. I started this a while ago, and pretty much dropped it. Not because it wasn't interesting or well written, but because of the love triangle plot that's just getting old to me. But, since I can't stand leaving books unfinished, I picked it up again.

And I'm glad I did.

I like how the love triangle doesn't turn to bitterness, or at least not an overwhelming, character-altering bitterness *coughIgniteMecough*. I like Cassia. I like Ky. I like Xander. And now I'm emotionally invested, so I have to find Crossed somewhere.

Great. Another book to crowd my shelves. It's a good problem to have, in my opinion.

★★—The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

"Offred is a Handmaid in the Republic of Gilead. She may leave the home of the Commander and his wife once a day to walk to food markets whose signs are now pictures instead of words because women are no longer allowed to read. She must lie on her back once a month and pray that the Commander makes her pregnant, because in an age of declining births, Offred and the other Handmaids are valued only if their ovaries are viable. Offred can remember the years before, when she lived and made love with her husband, Luke; when she played with and protected her daughter; when she had a job, money of her own, and access to knowledge. But all of that is gone now..." (Goodreads)

My Review

★★

Finally finished it. I was just waiting for this book to end. I didn't like it. I found it confusing and hard to follow. I sympathized with Offred, but that was about it. I didn't like or truly care about any of the characters, except Offred's nameless daughter, who was a blip. There was no historical context from Offred, and by the time I got to the epilogue I no longer cared. I was bored. The society of Gilead ties with, if not overtakes, the society in the Hunger Games. It's a religious extremist society, which is infuriating. I don't like religious extremism, especially where women are told what they can and can't do with their bodies. In Gilead, they're required to have babies. That's all they're good for. Which is bullshit. I know I'm not supposed to like the governments in dystopian literature. But hell. Man or woman, I wouldn't want to live there. At least in other societies, women are allowed to keep their dignity and independence. But not here.