Review: The Rain by Virginia Bergin

Title: The Rain.
Series: The Rain, #1.
Author: Virginia Bergin.
Publication Date: July 17th, 2014.
Publisher: Macmillan.
Genres: Post-Apocalyptic, Young Adult.
Format: Paperback, 384 pages.
Source: Provided By Publisher.
My Rating:

It's in the rain...and just one drop will kill you.

They don't believe it at first. Crowded in Zach's kitchen, Ruby and the rest of the partygoers laugh at Zach's parents' frenzied push to get them all inside as it starts to drizzle. But then the radio comes on with the warning, "It's in the rain! It's fatal, it's contagious, and there's no cure."

Two weeks later, Ruby is alone. Anyone who's been touched by rain or washed their hands with tap water is dead. The only drinkable water is quickly running out. Ruby's only chance for survival is a treacherous hike across the country to find her father-if he's even still alive.

 

Review

It feels like I haven’t written a review in about a year, although it has only been a couple of months. So, I apologise if I seem a little rusty! The Rain is set in a diary format and it is as if the main character is speaking directly to you, I absolutely loved this, as I don’t come across books like it very often! The Rain is a brilliant and pretty darn awesome post-apocalyptic novel with a really fantastic premise and interesting characters. Every time I go to get a glass of water now, I pause for a second and need to remind myself that it hadn’t happened in real life – not yet at least!

Ruby is our main protagonist and I actually started off liking her quite a lot, she seemed like a very typical teenage girl and was generally a pretty bubbly and interesting character. However, the more I read The Rain, the more I grew to dislike her. Ruby turned out to be an irritating, annoying, frustrating, big-headed, over dramatic, rude and mean character. The way she treated people, her family included, made me want to whack her over the head with the book. I know she’s only seventeen, but you would think, given the circumstances (and the fact that she’s nearly an adult) she’d mature a little, but she just got worse as the book went on. I don’t know whether this was Virginia Bergin’s plan all along, but Ruby was definitely not a character I would want to know!

Overall, The Rain was a really good book that I found really difficult to put down; I needed to find out what would happen next! Virginia Bergin’s writing is different and unique and I have to say I’ve definitely not read anything like it before. I loved the format the book was in, a diary written by Ruby and although I didn’t like Ruby’s character, it didn’t detract from the brilliance of the book. Virginia Bergin is a fantastic author and I can’t wait to read more from her in the future, I would also definitely recommend The Rain to any post-apocalyptic fan as it really is a unique read!

Quotes

Simon’s hands snatched round my middle and pulled me back. He pinned me to him.
My scream died in the air; it died and joined all the other screams. They live like ghosts, like echoes in the minds of the living. My scream burst out and died and lungs refused - refused - to suck air in. I wanted to stop, to die with that scream.
‘Breathe, breathe, breathe,’ Simon kept saying. He was crying. He would not let me go.
Then it comes. Your lungs suck in air; your body decides for you. You will live.
You’re one breath away from her, then two, then three, then four, then five.
Mum, I am still breathing. - Page 72 & 73.

Whitby, outside, had started to whimper...and the sound of his crying, it was awful and I could feel I was about ready to totally yee-haa...and then...something kicked in, just for a second, about how..I dunno. How it’s so hard now to work things out it’s maybe easier to work them out with other people, but how being with other people is dangerous as well as safer...because you have to agree all the time...because if you don’t sort it out and you don’t agree, a lot of things can go wrong.
Basically people can die. [...]

My eyes were so tear-blurry I could hardly even see Whitby running after the car, barking. Please don’t leave me, please don’t leave me, please don’t leave me.
I could hardly even see him until he was just a tiny dot, sitting in the middle of the motorway, howling. - Page 304.

I had these thoughts – strange, but not scary – about how maybe there’d be so few people left now that the animals would set up a human zoo and bring their animal children to stare at us and tell them in Animalese to shush and not frighten us, and give us mobile phones to play with and feed us on tinned stuff and bottles of cola. Yikes! And try to get us to breed! Imagine spending the rest of your life trapped in a cage with Darius Spratt, being forced to try to like each other. – Page 343.

Review: Mutant City by Steve Feasey

Title: Mutant City.
Series: Mutant City, #1.
Author: Steve Feasey.
Publication Date: May 8th, 2014.
Publisher: Bloomsbury.
Genres: Sci-Fi, Post-Apocalyptic, Young Adult.
Format: Paperback, 345 pages.
Source: ARC Provided By Publisher.
My Rating:

Fifty years ago, the world was almost destroyed by a chemical war. Now the world is divided into the mutants and the pure. Mutants must fight for survival in a scarred landscape, while the privileged pure live out a life of disease-free perfection.

Thirteen years ago, a covert government experimental facility was shut down and its residents killed. The secrets it held died with them. But five extraordinary kids survived.

Today four teenagers are about to discover that their mutant blood brings with it special powers. They are heading straight for Mutant City with rival factions close behind. One by one, they face the enemy. Together, they must stay alive...

 

Review

Mutant City is one of those books that I just didn’t expect to love as much as I did. Mutant City did take me a few weeks to read, as I’ve been in a huge reading slump lately, but I enjoyed every moment I was reading it! Although a few of the ideas in Mutant City aren’t exactly original; it’s a fun, fast-paced, and action-packed book that will ensnare the reader and keep them wanting to keep turning the pages to find out what’ll happen next.

Mutant City switches perspectives throughout the book, so each new chapter is in the view of a different character – I believe it switches between 5 or 6 characters throughout the book. At the beginning, this was rather confusing, and I found myself flipping back to the first few pages to find out which character was which. But by the time I’d read about quarter of Mutant City I was really engrossed and invested in pretty much all the characters.

Rush is one of the characters that we read the most about, and I really loved him. He’s a bit of a head-strong guy, but eventually learns to trust the new people he’s meeting. I just loved the amount of compassion he showed throughout the book towards the people he cares about. Brick is also another one of the main characters in Mutant City, and although there really isn’t that many chapters based solely on him, I adored his character too. He’s a big guy, as mentioned on many different occasions throughout the book, but he has a soft heart, and is just a really strong, caring and overall loveable character.

Overall, I really enjoyed reading Mutant City and I think it truly is a brilliant and wonderful novel. The fact that you get thrown completely into the middle of Steve Feasey’s world does leave you a little confused, however it doesn’t take long to acclimatise and things become much clearer the more you read. Steve Feasey’s writing is fun and quirky, and although it’s definitely not perfect – I still absolutely adored it. I’d recommend anyone who loves a bit of Sci-Fi to read Mutant City, especially if you’re a fan of X-Men, as I’ve heard that they’re supposed to be quite similar! I believe Mutant City well and truly deserves the 4 star rating I gave it, and I can’t wait to see what happens next – as I hope there’s a sequel - because the cliff hanger ending was frustrating, but really awesome at the same time.

Quotes

‘The farm was established so I might look into mutant anomalies.’
‘Anomalies?’
‘Aberrations. Mutations so extreme that they defy scientific explanation.’ He paused to wet his dry, cracked lips.
Zander was beginning to wonder if the old man’s ramblings might be simply a result of the pain-controlling medication he was on. He glanced back towards the door, weighing up whether he should call one of the nursing staff.
The old man continued. ‘I’d heard rumours about mutants from the most extreme environments who had psychic powers and other weird abilities.’ - Page 31.

The stone he dropped, almost casually, out of the same hand landed perfectly in the small square of leather between the long thongs, and he twirled the entire thing about his head, the weapon making a low whoosh that got increasingly loud with each revolution. On the third turn he leaned into the throw and released one of the thongs so the stone flew out at a terrific speed, streaking through the air like a bullet. There was an audible crack! as the projectile connected with its target, followed by the sound of the crossbow clattering to the ground. For a moment Forkhand seemed unaware he’d been hit. He stood as a rivulet of blood flowed down his face from the centre of his forehead.
Then his eyes rolled up towards the heavens and he collapsed. - Page 187 – 188.

‘Look who’s here,’ Rush said, nodding in Tink’s direction.
Dotty took one look at the man, let out a less than friendly hurgh and walked out again, pausing in the doorway to fart loudly.
‘Well, what do you know?’ Tink said with a grin. ‘The miserable critter still hates me.’ - Page 286.

Review: The Forever Song by Julie Kagawa

Title: The Forever Song.
Series: Blood of Eden, #3.
Author: Julie Kagawa.
Publication Date: April 15th, 2014.
Publisher: Mira Ink.
Genres: Paranormal, Post-Apocalyptic, Young Adult.
Format: Paperback, 384 pages.
Source: Provided By Publisher
My Rating:

Vengeance will be hers.

Allison Sekemoto once struggled with the ultimate question: is she a human or monster?
With the death of her love she has her answer.
Monster.

Embracing her inner darkness, Allie is now determined to hunt and kill Sarren, the psychopath who murdered Zeke. But the trail is bloody and long and Sarren is leading Allie’s dangerous fight to the one place she must protect at any cost – Eden, the last safe-zone on earth. Forced into a battle that it may be impossible to win, Allie is about to face her darkest days.
And, if she succeeds, she could face surviving forever alone.

 

Review

It seems like forever ago that I read and loved the second book in this wonderful trilogy. So I have to say I was a little apprehensive about starting The Forever Song, not just because it’s the conclusion to the story, but because I wasn’t sure how much I’d remember from the first two books. I didn’t have to worry for long though, because as soon as I started reading The Forever Song, everything came flooding back! The Forever Song was the most perfect and heart-wrenching conclusion to the Blood of Eden trilogy – I couldn’t have dreamt a more wonderful, beautiful and incredible ending.

Allison’s character has drastically changed since the first book in the series; she’s grown from this weedy, scared little girl, to a completely wonderful, strong, beautiful, loyal and badass woman. In The Forever Song, we get to see Allison’s dark, dangerous and murderous side – fuelled by anger and grief – and I really loved reading about her in that state of mind. It was so completely different from the other books, but just as incredible. Allie is definitely my most favourite female character that I’ve read about – I love her determination and her inner struggle with herself, to not become the monster she fears she’ll be. She’s headstrong, and erratic and often ruled by her emotions rather than common sense, but I think that just makes her even more of an amazing character.

Kanin is Allison’s sire, and a master Vampire. From the moment I was introduced to him in the first book in this trilogy, I loved him. Kanin is the most compassionate and deep and detailed secondary character that I’ve ever read about. He becomes a father figure to Allison, and there is a loyalty and connection between the two that goes beyond their blood tie. They’re family, and I’m one hundred percent sure that Kanin loves Allison like she were his own daughter, and the pride he has in her is incredible. I love Kanin’s character for all those reasons, and so many, many more.

Jackal is Allison’s blood brother of sorts – sired by Kanin years previously. He’s a sarcastic, rude, egotistical, self-involved, murdering and twisted character that you just can’t help but love - especially the more you read about him. In the first book, I hated him with a passion, but in the second I grew to love him in a weird and freaky way. And in The Forever Song, I loved him even more. He hasn’t changed since the first book, and is still awful and cruel, but there’s this comedic aura around him, and I can’t help but laugh at some of things he comes out with. You may question my sanity slightly, but read the books and judge for yourself!

Overall, I loved The Forever Song so much; I’m finding it ridiculously hard to put how I feel into words. I flew through the novel, desperate to find out what would happen next. One minute I was crying like an idiot, and the next I was laughing my head off. The Forever Song was dark, intense and filled with twists and sinister plans. I absolutely adore Julie Kagawa’s writing, she has this incredibly ability to not only create an intricately woven world, but to also make you feel like you’re right there along with the characters. She’s just absolutely phenomenal! I will be recommending this series to every single person I know who reads – I’ll be stopping people in book stores and shoving copies of the series in their arms and telling them to read it. It’s one of those series that just sticks with you, with every little detail clinging to your mind - not letting you forget it even when you’ve read the last page and put the book back on the shelf. If I could give The Forever Song, and the Blood of Eden trilogy, more than 5 stars – I would! I’d gladly give it a thousand stars, because it well and truly deserves it. If you haven’t picked up the first book yet, go do it now, you won’t regret it.

Quotes

This time, there was no doubt. No hesitation. Even if it hurt. Even though remembering Zeke ripped my heart into a million tiny pieces, I would not let this thing win. And if that meant fighting the monster until the end of time, that’s what I was going to do. - Page 61 & 62.

I remembered my Zeke: brave, determined, compassionate. The boy who hadn’t let the fact that I was a vampire scare him away, who had offered his heart to a monster, because he could see the human inside. The only living being I would ever open myself up to, because I’d trusted him.
Because I’d known he would never hurt me. - Page 127 & 128.

“I thought we had more time, even though I knew better. Life is so fragile, and someone can be taken from you at any time. I’ve always known that.” - Page 225.

Review: The 100 by Kass Morgan

Title: The 100.
Series: The Hundred, #1.
Author: Kass Morgan.
Publication Date: August 29th, 2013.
Publisher: Hodder.
Genres: Sci-Fi, Post-Apocalyptic, Young Adult.
Format: Paperback, 323 pages.
Source: Provided By Publisher.
My Rating:

No one has set foot on earth in centuries – until now.

Ever since a devastating nuclear war, humanity has lived on spaceships far above Earth’s radioactive surface. Now, one hundred juvenile delinquents – considered expendable by society – are being sent on a dangerous mission: to re-colonize the planet. It could be their second chance at life... or it could be a suicide mission.

CLARKE was arrested for treason, though she’s haunted by the memory of what she really did. WELLS, the chancellor’s son, came to Earth for the girl he loves – but will she ever forgive him? Reckless BELLAMY fought his way onto the transport pod to protect his sister, the other half of the only siblings in the universe. And GLASS managed to escape back onto the ship, only to find that life there is just as dangerous as she feared it would be on Earth.

Confronted with a savage land and haunted by secrets from their pasts, the hundred must fight to survive. They were never meant to be heroes, but they may be mankind’s last hope.

 

Review

I’d not heard anything about The 100 until it arrived on my doorstep a little while back. I wanted to wait until everyone had finished reading it, and bypass all the reviews just for a little while, so I could make my own, unbiased opinion. I wasn’t expecting too much from The 100 as the ratings I’d seen looked a little disappointing, but I’m so glad to say I was very pleasantly surprised. The 100 was a really fantastic, fast-paced and action-packed book that I just couldn’t put down!

The 100 is told in the perspectives of our four main characters; Clarke, Wells, Bellamy and Glass. All of these characters are so unique and different and I loved them all. I loved how, throughout the book, there were plenty of flashbacks, letting the readers know what the characters had been done before being detained – and eventually, how they all got there. The 100 is a real page-turner and I loved pretty much everything about it, and actually found it quite difficult to find fault with.

Ladies first! Clarke was a really strong-willed and determined character, and I just adored her right from the beginning. Arrested for treason, Clarke is still haunted by her past – and was a medic in training before her detainment. I loved a lot of Clarke’s different traits, but the one I loved most was her ability to look past peoples faults, and things they may have done in the past – and see the person they really are. I just thought she was an amazing character. Glass escapes the ship right at the beginning of the novel, and at first I just thought she was a coward, but you learn overtime the things she’s had to deal with, and I instantly changed my opinion. I thought that Glass was weak, but as it turns out she was an incredibly strong and interesting character, and I loved being able to read about the life up on the ship, as well as on earth.

Onto the boys! Wells got himself contained to be with the girl he loves, and to protect her from anything dangerous on earth – no matter what would happen to him in the process. If that isn’t true love, then I don’t know what is. He made some pretty terrible mistakes, but you can tell that he only did them to try and protect his girl, and I really loved his character as well. Not only was he a mentally strong person, but he was also extremely forgiving and loving – he was just fantastic. Bellamy was a strange character, and he seemed a little too full of himself in my opinion. He has his own reasons for jumping aboard the ship to earth, his little sister, as he’d do anything to protect her. This whole thing made up for his arrogance and inability to connect with anyone other than his sister. I liked his character though, but I won’t be jumping on the Bellamy loving band wagon any time soon.

Overall, I really loved reading The 100 and I could only find a few, very small flaws, hence the 4.5/5 star rating, instead of a 5/5. Even though I loved the characters, I thought that they could have been developed a little more – and also I thought that the world-building could have been developed a little more, with more details and specifics. These little flaws though didn’t detract from the beautiful writing and fantastic storyline that I just couldn’t get enough of. Kass Morgan has her own unique and wonderful writing style that’s engaging and had me hooked right from the very beginning. And BOY, that cliff-hanger ending had me cursing the book and whacking it against my head at the same time. I can’t wait to read the next instalment in this series, and anything else Kass Morgan may write in the future – she’s definitely an author to keep an eye on!

Quotes

She heard voices everywhere. They called to her from the corners of her dark cell. They filled the silence between her heart-beats. They screamed from the deepest recesses of her mind. It wasn't death she craved, but if that was the only way to silence the voices, then she was prepared to die. - Page 01.

Humans had abandoned Earth during its darkest hour. It wouldn't care how many died trying to return. - Page 55.

“Of course I know.” Thalia looked at Clarke with a mixture of frustration and pity. “But I also know what he risked to come here.” She smiled. “He loves you, Clarke. The kind of love most people spend their whole lives looking for.”
Clarke sighed. “Well, I hope, for your sake, that you never find it.” - Page 106.

Review: Resist by Sarah Crossan

Title: Resist.
Series: Breathe, #2.
Author: Sarah Crossan.
Publication Date: October 10th, 2013.
Publisher: Bloomsbury.
Genres: Dystopia, Post-Apocalyptic, Young Adult.
Format: Paperback, 360 pages.
Source: Provided By Publisher.
My Rating:

Everyone knows that life beyond the pod is possible. But they are trapped – each breath controlled by the Ministry.

The grove was the rebels’ chance of freedom. Now the Ministry has destroyed it and survivors must search for hope elsewhere. Alina leads the way to the only remaining Resistance base, Sequoia. There she uncovers a radical plot that could wipe out the Pod...and all those in it. Together with Quinn, Alina must escape Sequoia and save the people they love.

A brave new world is at stake.

 

Review

Resist is a really fantastic and interesting conclusion to the Breathe duology that I just couldn’t put down! It took me a while to get back into this series, as I read the first book about a year ago. However, after looking up some spoilers online – I soon managed to return to the amazing world Sarah Crossan has created. The whole prospect behind Resist and Breathe is really quite creepy because of how easily it could happen to us. There are a lot of things going on throughout Resist to keep anyone on their toes; a war is happening, new alliances are forming and the boundaries of friendship are being tested. The fun doesn’t stop there though, as there are also quite a few plot twists and dark secrets that you learn throughout Resist and I absolutely adored it!

Resist is told in the perspective of four teenagers, three we’re the main protagonists throughout the first book, Breathe and another is a completely new one altogether. I love multiple perspectives in books, as I think it’s really great to see the other side of a conversation, and how the other characters are feeling. I kind of feel like I mention this every time I review a novel with multiple perspectives, but that’s just my opinion – and I stand by it whole heartedly! I think you’d find it hard to find someone who doesn’t want to read a few paragraphs in the perspective of some of their other favourite characters, especially when romance is involved.

Alina and Bea are the two female protagonists throughout Resist, and I really loved them both. I thought that their characters were really well developed, and were easily likable. Alina’s character has changed so much since book one, and I loved the changes I saw in her. She became more caring and thoughtful and was just an awesome character to read about. As for Bea, I thought she had grown a lot since book one as well; gone is the jealous and frail girl from the beginning of Breathe. Bea is back in this book and she’s fighting hard for the ones she loves, and I thought that she was amazing and really brave.

Quinn and Ronan are the male protagonists throughout this novel – and they were both wonderful. I liked Quinn’s character, but probably not as much as I did in the first book. Although he finally realised his feelings for Bea in book one, I thought he seemed to take them a bit for granted in Resist – but that’s just my opinion. As for Ronan, he was a complete surprise, as I hadn’t expected to be able to read chapters in his perspective and I adored his character. Ronan is so unlike his father, and actually takes a step back and notices what’s going on around him – and it was great to see him choosing the right side – even if it meant going against his family and everything he’s ever known.

Although Resist took quite a few chapters to get into, once it got started it was full of action, adventure and suspense! I did find that everything the characters attempted to do was done so very easily – with very little trouble in doing so. At times a lot of it seemed too unbelievable and it frustrated me that our characters didn’t come across big enough obstacles to face. I also thought the ending was left way too open, and I didn’t think it answered enough of my questions – but it was still a great finale.

Overall, I thought Breathe was a brilliant and wonderfully done novel, and I love pretty much everything about this series! I believe it well and truly deserves the 4/5 star rating, and if it weren’t for the points I’ve mentioned, it may have gotten 5/5 stars. Sarah Crossan’s writing is really brilliant and beautiful - and she’s able to create loveable characters and an incredibly detailed world. I’d recommend this book, and series, to any dystopian lover or post-apocalyptic fan, as they really are thrilling and wonderful books. Sarah Crossan is definitely an author to keep an eye on, and I can’t wait to read more from her in the future!

Quotes

It'll be better than death.
It has to be better than death.
Doesn't it? - Page 100.

‘Am I finally being made a dame? If so, I’d like to request a transfer to the royal chambers and a servant to do my gardening for me,’ Maude says. ‘Also, I need a foot rub.’ - Page 182.

I just run. I run as fast as my lungs and legs will carry me.
The voice comes at me again. It’s Silas. ‘Run, Alina! ALINA!’
But he doesn’t need to worry. ‘ALINA!’ he shouts.
And I smile. - Page 346.

Favourite Books Of 2013

Hey book nerds! :D Today I'm going to be sharing with you some of my favourite books of 2013! :) I have read so many amazing, wonderful and fantastic books this year, so it's going to be hard just choosing a few. However, I have also read quite a few books this year that I didn't like... I always feel very disappointed when I dislike a book, because I try really hard to like as many as I can!

Unfortunately, I'm only human (well, mostly) and I just can't like everything. I'm a picky and fussy reader and a huge critique when it comes down to it. :) I'm also a very emotional reader; the tiniest thing in a book can set me off crying for prolonged minutes at a time. This especially happens when I'm really engaged in the story and love the characters. (Also, you can add Animals into this as well!)

Please excuse the excessive use of Snape GIF's, this is the only time of the year I feel okay with posting them to relay everything I'm feeling! :P Well anyway, I hope you'll all enjoy my list for this year - I read 100 books - and completed my Good Reads reading goal for the year, so it's extra exciting. :D I hope you all have a wonderful new year, and start 2014 with a bang! :D Maybe you'll be as agreeable with my list as Snape is here. Who knows? ^.^

 

Favourite Books Of 2013

Title: Crash Into You.
Series: Pushing the Limits, #3.
Author: Katie McGarry.
Genres: Contemporary, Young Adult.

The girl with straight A's, designer clothes, and the perfect life - that's who people expect Rachel Young to be. So the private school junior keeps secrets from her wealthy parents and overbearing brothers...and she's just added two more to the list.

One involves racing strangers down dark country roads in her Mustang GT. The other? Seventeen-year-old Isaiah Walker - a guy she has no business even talking to. But when the foster kid with the tattoos and intense gray eyes comes to her rescue, she can't get him out of her mind.


Isaiah has secrets too. About where he lives, and how he really feels about Rachel. The last thing he needs is to get tangled up with a rich girl who wants to slum it on the south side for kicks - no matter how angelic she might look. But when their shared love of street racing puts both their lives in jeopardy, they have six weeks to come up with a way out. Six weeks to discover just how far they'll go to save each other.

 

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Title: Easy.
Series: Contours of the Heart, #1.
Author: Tammara Webber.
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult.

When Jacqueline follows her longtime boyfriend to the college of his choice, the last thing she expects is a breakup two months into sophomore year. After two weeks in shock, she wakes up to her new reality: she's single, attending a state university instead of a music conservatory, ignored by her former circle of friends, and failing a class for the first time in her life.

Leaving a party alone, Jacqueline is assaulted by her ex's frat brother. Rescued by a stranger who seems to be in the right place at the right time, she wants nothing more than to forget the attack and that night - but her savior, Lucas, sits on the back row of her econ class, sketching in a notebook and staring at her. Her friends nominate him to be the perfect rebound.

When her attacker turns stalker, Jacqueline has a choice: crumple in defeat or learn to fight back. Lucas remains protective, but he's hiding secrets of his own. Suddenly appearances are everything, and knowing who to trust is anything but easy.

 

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Title: Beautiful Disaster.
Series: Beautiful, #1.
Author: Jamie McGuire.
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult.

The new Abby Abernathy is a good girl. She doesn’t drink or swear, and she has the appropriate number of cardigans in her wardrobe. Abby believes she has enough distance from the darkness of her past, but when she arrives at college with her best friend, her path to a new beginning is quickly challenged by Eastern University's Walking One-Night Stand.

Travis Maddox, lean, cut, and covered in tattoos, is exactly what Abby needs—and wants—to avoid. He spends his nights winning money in a floating fight ring, and his days as the ultimate college campus charmer. Intrigued by Abby’s resistance to his appeal, Travis tricks her into his daily life with a simple bet. If he loses, he must remain abstinent for a month. If Abby loses, she must live in Travis’s apartment for the same amount of time. Either way, Travis has no idea that he has met his match.

 

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Title: Wait for You.
Series: Wait for You, #1.
Author: J. Lynn.
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult.

Some things are worth waiting for...
Some things are worth experiencing...
And some things are worth fighting for...

Avery knows she should stay away from Cam Hamilton: he might be the hottest guy on campus but she really doesn’t need that sort of drama right now. Love is best left in the past – along with her troubles. But sometimes, the last thing you want, is just the thing you need...

 
 
 

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Title: Pretty Girl Thirteen.
Author: Liz Coley.
Genres: Contemporary, Young Adult.

Angie Chapman is only 13 when she gets lost in the woods in the middle of the night. The next thing she knows she’s returned home, scars around her wrists and ankles, physically exhausted. Her parents collapse into tears when they see her, but Angie doesn’t understand – until they tell her she has been missing, presumed dead, for three years.

Angie doesn’t remember anything from her missing years. But there are people who do – people who could tell Angie every terrifying detail, if only they weren’t locked inside her mind. With help, Angie begins to unravel the darkest secrets of her own past. But does she really want to know the truth?

 

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Title: Wither.
Series: The Chemical Garden, #1.
Author: Lauren DeStefano.
Genres: Dystopia, Young Adult.

What if you knew exactly when you would die?
Thanks to modern science, every human being has become a ticking genetic time bomb—males only live to age twenty-five, and females only live to age twenty. In this bleak landscape, young girls are kidnapped and forced into polygamous marriages to keep the population from dying out.

When sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery is taken by the Gatherers to become a bride, she enters a world of wealth and privilege. Despite her husband Linden’s genuine love for her, and a tenuous trust among her sister wives, Rhine has one purpose: to escape—to find her twin brother and go home.

But Rhine has more to contend with than losing her freedom. Linden’s eccentric father is bent on finding an antidote to the genetic virus that is getting closer to taking his son, even if it means collecting corpses in order to test his experiments. With the help of Gabriel, a servant she trusts, Rhine attempts to break free, in the limted time she has left.

 

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Title: Vampire Academy.
Series: Vampire Academy, #1.
Author: Richelle Mead.
Genres: Paranormal, Young Adult.

St. Vladimir’s Academy isn’t just any boarding school—it’s a hidden place where vampires are educated in the ways of magic and half-human teens train to protect them. Rose Hathaway is a Dhampir, a bodyguard for her best friend Lissa, a Moroi Vampire Princess. They’ve been on the run, but now they’re being dragged back to St. Vladimir’s—the very place where they’re most in danger...

Rose and Lissa become enmeshed in forbidden romance, the Academy’s ruthless social scene, and unspeakable nighttime rituals. But they must be careful lest the Strigoi—the world’s fiercest and most dangerous vampires—make Lissa one of them forever.

 

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Title: Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side.
Series: Jessica, #1.
Author: Beth Fantaskey.
Genres: Paranormal, Young Adult.

The undead can really screw up your senior year ...

Marrying a vampire definitely doesn’t fit into Jessica Packwood’s senior year “get-a-life” plan. But then a bizarre (and incredibly hot) new exchange student named Lucius Vladescu shows up, claiming that Jessica is a Romanian vampire princess by birth—and he’s her long-lost fiancé. Armed with newfound confidence and a copy of Growing Up Undead: A Teen Vampire’s Guide to Dating, Health, and Emotions, Jessica makes a dramatic transition from average American teenager to glam European vampire princess. But when a devious cheerleader sets her sights on Lucius, Jess finds herself fighting to win back her wayward prince, stop a global vampire war—and save Lucius’s soul from eternal destruction.

 

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Title: The Immortal Rules.
Series: Blood of Eden, #1.
Author: Julie Kagawa.
Genres: Paranormal, Post-Apocalyptic, Young Adult.

My Vampire Creator Told Me This:
‘Sometime in your life, Allison Sekemoto, you will kill a human being. The question is not if it will happen, but when. Do you understand?’

I didn't then, not really.

I DO NOW.

 
 
 
 

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What were your favourite books of 2013? Leave me a comment or a link to your blog post and I'll be sure to check it out. ^.^ Happy reading! (:

Review: The Eternity Cure by Julie Kagawa

Title: The Eternity Cure.
Series: Blood of Eden, #2.
Author: Julie Kagawa.
Publication Date: May 3rd, 2013.
Publisher: Mira Ink.
Genres: Paranormal, Post-Apocalyptic, Young Adult.
Format: Paperback, 434 pages.
Source: Provided By Publisher.
My Rating:

In Allison Sekemoto's world, there is one rule left: Blood calls to blood.

She has done the unthinkable: died so that she might continue to live. Cast out of Eden and separated from the boy she dared to love, Allie will follow the call of blood to save her creator, Kanin, from the psychotic vampire Sarren. But when the trail leads to Allie's birthplace in New Covington, what Allie finds there will change the world forever-and possibly end human and vampire existence.

There's a new plague on the rise, a strain of the Red Lung virus that wiped out most of humanity generations ago-and this strain is deadly to humans and vampires alike. The only hope for a cure lies in the secrets Kanin carries, if Allie can get to him in time. Allison thought that immortality was forever. But now, with eternity itself hanging in the balance, the lines between human and monster will blur even further, and Allie must face another choice she could never have imagined having to make.

 

Review

“He was willing to try, to offer his heart to a demon, and I would not betray that trust. No matter what it took or how hard I had to fight, I would not become a monster.”

I don’t think I’ve ever written a review of a sequel to a book before, so I’m not really sure how this will go – but I’ll try my best! First off, I would like to say; Julie Kagawa, what on earth have you done?! WHY did you leave the ending that way? Are you TRYING to turns us into puddles of emotions on the floor? The ending of The Eternity Cure absolutely killed me, it really did. Aside from the absolutely heart-wrenching ending, The Eternity Cure was dark, creepy, intense, blood-filled and more pulse-racing than the previous book. I wasn’t sure if any sequel could be as good as The Immortal Rules, but this one was just as fantastic!

I didn’t realise how much I’d missed reading about Allie’s character until I picked up The Eternity Cure. Allie is back with full force in this novel, and she’s stronger, fiercer and more bad-assed than before! There are so many different things about Allie’s character that I love, I could go on for paragraphs about how much of an awesome character she is, but I’ll stick to just this one. I think Allie is a really fantastic and incredible character, not only is she physically stronger in this sequel, but mentally as well. She’s been fighting her inner demons since the day she was turned, and is constantly struggling to choose humanity over the monster within her. I really think it’s amazing how compassionate she is, Allie hates to kill, even when the hunger is pulling her under – she’s chosen what kind of monster she’s become – and it’s not a mindless murderer.

Zeke, oh Zeke – how I missed you, too! It’s been months since Allie said goodbye to him in Eden and set off to look for Kanin, but I always hoped that Zeke would reappear along the way - and I’m so glad he did! Zeke is also back with full force and is more bad-ass than before. He’s also more swoon-worthy and wonderful. (Did I actually just say ‘swoon-worthy?’) I loved Zeke’s character in The Immortal Rules, but I loved him even more in The Eternity Cure! He cares about Allie so much, even though he knows what she is and what she’s capable of – and I think it’s incredible. Zeke is a strong-willed guy and I loved him so much, he’s definitely become one of my favourite male characters, ever!

Allie and Zeke’s relationship doesn’t spark off again until further into The Eternity Cure, but I didn’t mind. The passion and connection between the two was incredible, and the chemistry between them radiated off the two and nearly made me weep. I loved how they wanted to defy the odds and be together, even though it’s really an impossible situation. How can a human and a vampire be together? I do hope they find a way, because I am in love with their relationship.

As for the rest of the characters, I’d like to start off with Jackal. I NEVER expected to end up liking him at all; I was cheering Allie on whenever she wanted to kill him. However, as the novel progressed, I saw a side to him I never thought I’d never see. He actually cares, maybe not about humans, but about Allie and Kanin. It was really great to see how Allie’s humanity rubbed off on Jackal – and I became quite fond of his character by the end of the book. He’s also quite the entertaining character at times, and many of his dark and snide comments made me laugh. Moving onto Kanin character – oh how I loved him! In The Immortal Rules you meet him, however you don’t seem to get a grip on what his character is really like and his background. In The Eternity Cure, you learn all about his past and what kind of Vampire he really is. I really loved Kanin’s character, he’s compassionate, kind and caring – and is now one of my favourite characters in the series.

Overall, I thought this book was bloody fantastic and I can’t find a single fault with it. As I think I must have said a thousand times, Julie Kagawa’s writing is flawless and I’m completely in love with the story she’s woven and the characters she’s created. I wish that I could give this book more than 5 stars, because it deserves SO MUCH more! The ending to The Eternity Cure killed me and I found myself shamelessly crying – I can’t seem to decide whether the ending was the perfect one or the most annoying one – I’ll let you know! I can’t wait to get my hands on the third book in this series and see where everything will go. Until then, I’ll just have to keep the story and characters close to my heart!

Quotes

He looked...very alone then, a single human in a monster-infested world, a fading bright spot surrounded by shadow. And despite my best intentions, my determination not to be a monster, I was part of the world that he feared. Part of the darkness that would drag him down and tear him apart. - Page 164.

I shifted uneasily, feeling a restless flicker of the Hunger stir to life. So many humans... - Page 182.

It was suddenly painful not to touch him, to feel his hands on mine, his lips, warm and strong. But, of course, with the desire came the savage ache of the Hunger. I remembered the sweetness of his blood, the hot strength flowing through me, the intoxicating power. I wanted him, badly, but I didn’t know which was stronger. And I was afraid to find out. - Page 260.

Review: The Immortal Rules by Julie Kagawa

Title: The Immortal Rules.
Series: Blood of Eden, #1.
Author: Julie Kagawa.
Publication Date: May 4th, 2012.
Publisher: Mira Ink.
Genres: Paranormal, Post-Apocalyptic, Young Adult.
Format: Paperback, 485 pages.
Source: Provided By Publisher.
My Rating:

To survive in a ruined world, she must embrace the darkness...

Allison Sekemoto survives in the Fringe, the outermost circle of a walled-in city. By day, she and her crew scavenge for food. By night, any one of them could be eaten. Some days, all that drives Allie is her hatred of them—the vampires who keep humans as blood cattle. Until the night Allie herself dies and becomes one of the monsters.

Forced to flee her city, Allie must pass for human as she joins a ragged group of pilgrims seeking a legend—a place that might have a cure for the disease that killed off most of civilization and created the rabids, the bloodthirsty creatures who threaten human and vampire alike. And soon Allie will have to decide what - and who - are worth dying for.

 

Review

“Hunger flickered, always there, but I pushed it down. I was a vampire. Nothing would change that. But I didn't have to be a monster.”

Wow, I really don’t know where to start with this review but this book was incredible! This was the first book I’ve read by Julie Kagawa, and I’d heard so many great things about this particular book, that I couldn’t wait to pick it up. I was, however, a little apprehensive about it as well – on rare occasions I find myself disliking a book that is so loved. I have no idea why – but I’m so glad to say this was not the case in reading The Immortal Rules.

The entire world Julie created in this book was absolutely phenomenal. The story is gritty and grimy, and doesn’t spare any of the nasty and gory details. Straight away, we’re thrown into a world where Vampires reign and the humans are like blood cattle, penned in to keep them from leaving and to stop the rabids from coming in.

I absolutely adored Allie’s character; she’s smart, caring and very independent. I loved how she could take care of herself, no matter the situation and wasn’t sitting around crying when danger came along. Allie was a really strong character, and tried her best not to let her emotions cloud her judgement. It was amazing to see how strong Allie’s determination to live was, even if it meant becoming a Vampire – she was definitely a kick-ass character, especially when wielding her katana!

Zeke is the love-interest in this novel, although I say ‘love-interest’ very loosely. The novel doesn’t revolve around Zeke’s and Allie’s relationship, which I loved. Zeke is cute, honest, sweet, kind, funny and just an amazing character overall. If I could have him for myself, I definitely would! He puts so many male characters I’ve grown attached to in the past to shame. It’s really easy to tell how anyone could fall in love with him.

Allie and Zeke’s relationship was incredible. They’re both such guarded characters, and I loved watching their relationship grow. Their feelings for each other are definitely not insta-love – it’s so realistic and relatable. I thought their relationship was just perfect and builds up slowly and gradually. On many places throughout this book was I was screaming inside at them, I just wished they would get on with it and kiss already – but I knew in my mind that it just wasn’t the time for them.

Even though the first few pages of the novel were a little slow, it doesn’t take long to be drawn into the story and become engaged with the characters. The entire book was an emotional rollercoaster for me; I felt every sting of betrayal, every pain and ache that the characters went through. I cried along with the characters and laughed with them as well. All the emotions in The Immortal Rules were so raw and amazing that I just couldn’t help not feeling them.

Overall, I really did think this book was amazing and I don’t have any complaints about it at all. The novel is fast-paced, but not at all confusing and I loved every minute of reading it. It was definitely a book I found extremely hard to put down! I’d recommend this book to anyone, even people who aren’t huge fans of paranormal aspects, because it’s just a fantastic book that I believe could draw in everyone. Julie Kagawa’s writing is beautiful and creepy and intense at the same time and I can’t wait to read the sequel to this incredible book. I believe the 5/5 star rating was well and truly eared and If I could rate it more, I definitely would.

Quotes

“Sometime in your life, Allison Sekemoto, you will kill a human being. Accidentally or as a conscious, deliberate act. It is unavoidable. The question is not if it will happen, but when. Do you understand?” - Page 96.

I wasn't thinking of his blood, rushing just below the skin. I wasn't thinking of his heartbeat or his touch or the pulse at his throat. Right now, all I was thinking of was Zeke. - Page 410.

'We are vampires,' Kanin had told me, on one of our last nights together. 'It makes no difference who we are, where we came from. Princes, Masters and rabids alike, we are monsters, cut off from humanity. They will never trust us. They will never accept us. We hide in their midst and walk among them, but we are forever separate. Damned. Alone. You don’t understand now, but you will. There will come a time when the road before you splits, and you must decide your path. Will you choose to become a demon with a human face, or will you fight your demon until the end of time, knowing you will forever struggle alone?' - Page 484.

Teaser Tuesday #32

 

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly book meme hosted by MizB from Should Be Reading. Grab your current read, open to a random page and share two “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page - remember, no spoilers!

Hey Book Nerds! :D How are you all doing today? :) It's such a miserable day today, it's been constantly raining since I woke up and it’s just not stopped. I don't think the sun even bothered coming out today. xD Anyway, I finished reading Pretty Girl Thirteen by Liz Coley yesterday - and oh my god - it was such an AMAZING book! My review will be posted soon, and hopefully my 100 followers giveaway as well! My extra copy of Pretty Girl Thirteen is up for grabs. ^.^ I keep saying I'll be posting the giveaway soon, but I've been really busy and haven't managed to do it - but I will soon, I promise! :D I hope you've all had a great weekend. :)

 

Teaser

Title: Partials.
Series: Partials Sequence, #1.
Author: Dan Wells.
Genres: Sci-Fi, Post-Apocalyptic, Young Adult.

This was the third birth this week, and the third death; it was more important to record the death, and to learn from it - to prevent, if not the next one, or the hundredth, or the thousandth. To find a way, somehow, to help a human child survive.

- Page 02.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Thoughts

I'm only about 27 pages into this book at the moment, and it hasn't blown me away yet. However, I've heard so many great things about it that I'm really excited to continue to read it and see if I believe it's worth all the hype. :P As for the cover, I think it's totally awesome! I love the photo shots of just the back of someone on covers - they can let your imagination wander about how the main character looks like. :) Have you read Partials? Let me know! ^.^

 

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What are your teasers for this Tuesday? Leave me a comment or a link to your blog post and I'll be sure to check it out! :D Happy Reading. (:

Review: Eve by Anna Carey

Title: Eve.
Series: Eve, #1.
Author: Anna Carey.
Publication Date: December 1st, 2011.
Publisher: Harper Teen.
Genres: Post-Apocalyptic, Dystopia, Young Adult.
Format: Paperback, 318 pages.
Source: Bought.
My Rating:

Where do you go when nowhere is safe?

After a deadly virus wiped out most of Earth's population, the world is a terrifying place.

Eighteen-year-old Eve has never been beyond the heavily guarded perimeter of her school, where she and two hundred other orphaned girls have been promised a bright future in The New America. But the night before graduation, Eve learns the shocking truth about her school's real purpose--and the horrifying fate that awaits her.

Fleeing the only home she's ever known, Eve sets off on a long, treacherous journey, searching for a place she can survive. Along the way she encounters Caleb, a rough, rebellious boy living in the wild. Caleb slowly wins her trust . . . and her heart. But when soldiers begin hunting them, Eve must choose between true love and her life.

 

Review

Sixteen years after a deadly plague wiped out about 98% of the world’s population, the world is a deadly and terrifying place. Orphaned children are taken to schools, where the women are groomed and taught skills and grace. Eighteen year old Eve is the schools prize, smart, beautiful and the valedictorian. However, the night before her graduation, Eve learns the truth, from a girl named Arden, about her schools real purpose and the horrific future that’s in store for her, enforced by the King.

Arden escapes the school that night, leaving Eve doubting everything that she’s ever known. Later that night, Eve finds proof of Arden’s accusations and manages to escape the school the same night. She sets out into the wilderness, eventually stumbling along Arden and together they head towards a safe camp called Califia. On their way they are rescued from a tricky situation - involving King’s guard - by a tall and handsome boy named Caleb.

This was such a fantastic book that I’m finding it hard where to start. There were so many different twists and turns through this book that it kept me constantly on edge. I felt like I couldn’t put this novel down until I had turned the very last page. I loved how Eve didn’t take long to get going and practically jumped straight into the action. There weren’t 70 or so pages of annoying chapters beforehand that don’t really matter, like in most books I’ve read.

The main character, Eve, was fantastic. She’s strong-willed, smart, kind and caring with a lovely personality that you just can’t help but love. Eve starts off as this innocent teenage girl, brought up to believe everything that she was told, believing she’ll have a happily ever after. It was amazing to watch her character grow from an adolescent to an adult. From having no responsibilities to having to take responsibility for all the mistakes she makes.

Caleb has quickly become one of my favourite male book characters. Caleb is sweet, funny, caring, self-sacrificing and overall just an amazing character. I honestly wonder how many people would risk their life to save a complete and utter stranger. My answer is not many; so I’ve always had a soft spot for people or characters that actually do so.

I loved watched the relationship between Eve and Caleb blossom. Eve has been taught all her life that men are evil, ruthless creatures that can’t be trusted – but she soon discovers this isn’t true for all of them. Eve soon begins to trust Caleb and savour the time they spend together, eventually realising she’s fallen in love with him. Finally she figures out that he’ll never be safe, as long as she’s with him. I found it all a little heartbreaking and embarrassingly found myself crying a little as I read some of the scenes between them.

I loved all of the characters, they were amazing. I also loved reading about their pasts and what they plan to do in the future. The world building throughout the novel was also fantastic. It’s been 16 years since the pandemic, and pretty much everything out in the world has been abandoned, apart from the City of Sand where the King lives. As Eve passed through towns and forests, I felt like I could really imagine what it would be like; the disruption, the decay, abandonment and emptiness. The entire writing style just completely drew me in, and I knew, even before I’d finished reading it, that It was going to get a high rating.

Overall, I was so impressed with this book and it’s quickly become one of my favourites. The ending of the novel had me frowning and frantically trying to figure out whether there were any more pages left. At first, I wished it hadn’t ended like it did, but as I look back – I believe it was the perfect end to the first book in this trilogy. Eve deserves nothing less than a 5/5 star rating in my opinion and I can’t wait to get my hands on the sequel, ‘Once’, to carry on this incredible series.

Quotes

While he emptied the contents of the box onto the floor, sorting through tin cans and silver pouches, I studied his face. The river had washed away most of the dirt from his skin and it was now shiny and smooth, a few freckles covering the flat bridge of his nose. My eyes kept returning to his strong, angular features, the bones pressing against his skin. I knew I should be more afraid of him, but right now, I was simply fascinated. What was that word again, the one Teacher had used to describe her husband? The one Pip and I had joked about at school? Caleb, even with his brown nails and tangled hair, seemed almost...handsome. - Page 81.

"You can love anyone," I interrupted, looking around at the group. "Love is just" - I searched for the right words - "caring about someone very deeply. Feeling like that person matters to you, like your whole world would be sadder without them in it." - Page 133.

"But maybe the old bag was right. There is some kind of insanity in his eyes. It's like he wants to devour your soul or something." - Page 175.

Teaser Tuesday #27

 

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly book meme hosted by MizB from Should Be Reading. Grab your current read, open to a random page and share two “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page - remember, no spoilers!

Hey Book Nerds! :D How are you all doing today? ^.^ Books and things are starting to arrive in the post for my birthday next week, it's so exciting. ^.^ I finished reading Eve by Anna Carey yesterday, and it was such a FANTASTIC book! I'm posting my review on Thursday, so don't forget to check that out. :) I also popped into town today, and I found two books I've been wanting for ages in one of my local Charity Shops. I was so pleased! :D That's all for today, I'll talk to you guys again tomorrow. ^.^

 

Teaser

Title: Skinned.
Series: Cold Awakening #1.
Author: Robin Wasserman.
Genres: Sci-Fi, Post-Apocalyptic, Young Adult.

The last day I would have chosen - the last day I deserved - would have involved more chocolate. Significantly more. Dark. Milk. White. Bittersweet. Olive infused. Caramel filled. Truffle. Ganache. There would have been cheese, too, the soft, runny kind that stinks up a room as it dribbles down your throat. I would have lay in bed all day, eating the food I can no longer eat, listening to the music I no longer care to hear, feeling.

- Page 03.

 
 
 
 
 

Thoughts

I know there are more than two teasers this week, but I felt like all of this section of text should be shown. ^.^ I started reading this book this morning, so I'm only a few pages in. Unfortunately, because of this, I haven't really got an opinion on whether I like it as of yet. :P The cover is really cool, though! I'm sure it’s going to be a great read and I can't wait to continue it. :) Have you read Skinned before? Let me know! ^.^

 

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What are your teasers for this Tuesday? Leave me a comment or a link to your blog post and I'll be sure to check it out! :D Happy Reading. (:

Blog Tour: The Harvesting by Melanie Karsak

Title: The Harvesting.
Series: The Harvesting, #1.
Author: Melanie Karsak.
Publication Date: September 13th, 2012.
Publisher: Steampunk Press.
Genres: Paranormal, Post-Apocalyptic, Adult.
Format: Kindle eBook.
Source: Recieved E-Copy For Blog Tour.
My Rating:

Purchase

Amazon UK Amazon US Book Depository

It's all fun and games until someone ends up undead.

Though Layla reluctantly returns home to rural Hamletville after a desperate call from her psychic grandmother, she could never have anticipated the horror of what Grandma Petrovich has foreseen. The residents of Hamletville will need Layla's help if they are to survive the zombie apocalypse that's upon them. But that is not the only problem. With mankind silenced, it soon becomes apparent that we were never alone. As the beings living on the fringe seek to reclaim power, Layla must find a way to protect the ones she loves or all humanity may be lost.

 

About Melanie Karsak

Website Good Reads Twitter

Melanie Karsak, steampunk connoisseur, white elephant collector, and caffeine junkie, resides in Florida with her husband and two children.

Visit the author at her blog to learn more about upcoming projects, book signings, and other neato things.

 

Review

I received an eBook copy of this book for a blog tour, in exchange for an honest review.

Layla is living successfully and happily in New York when she receives a rather anxious and demanding phone call from the psychic Grandmother that raised her. Layla’s Grandma demands that she must return to her home town straight away, and then hangs up without giving a reason. When Layla arrives, she finds her Grandmother has been stockpiling supplies, getting rid of unnecessary objects and sends Layla out on errands to gather even more necessities – all, again, without telling her what’s going on. Her Grandma teachers her how to load and shoot the firearms she’s stocked up on, and puts her into an induced sleep. Once Layla awakens, she finds the Zombie Apocalypse has spread to her town, turning many of the people into flesh eating Zombies, her Grandma is missing and she now has psychic abilities. However, Layla has to push all that aside as she tries her best to protect the town and the people in it; who have all of a sudden turned to her for guidance.

The Harvesting was a great New Adult/Adult post apocalyptic and fantasy novel all squished into one. I liked this book, I really did; it contained humour and just enough romance to satisfy my girlish need. However there were quite a few things that just irritated me, didn’t seem to fit or I found brought the rating of the book down in general.

Layla, our main character, is the kick-ass heroine who appears in town and helps save the day - pretty predictable, right? Although I liked Layla’s character overall, I didn’t feel that she was very well developed at all. Layla is a fencing/martial arts sword instructor and curator. As the book progressed, I kept hoping that we’d find out more about Layla’s character, past and personality but I was disappointed. She has bad history in the town, leaving after a messy breakup with her high school sweetheart four years ago and hasn’t returned since. The only characteristics I managed to pick up from Layla is that she’s strong-willed, a great sword wielder and a natural born leader.

Throughout the entire novel, we meet quite a few new people from the small town. Although they’re pretty much glossed over and not well described; it was fun to read about them as they blended into the story. Two people we meet in particular are Ian and Jamie, who are brothers from the town. Ian is Layla’s high school sweetheart and ex-boyfriend. I hated Ian from the start, not just because of the things he did to Layla in the past, but because his character was a complete and utter jerk. Jamie is a sweet and kind guy, who’s just come back to the town from being in Iraq as a medic. I loved Jamie from the start, he was such an easy going guy that you could tell that Layla could fully relax and be herself around him.

Although I was disappointed not to know more about the characters personalities, it didn’t stop me from wanting to continue reading this novel. I did find that the novel was constantly jumping from scene to scene; often jumping a month or so into the future with no pre-warning – which was really annoying and hard to keep up with. I also wished there was a lot more detailing than there was, it felt like the author was just gliding over the details and important information. Whether this was intentional or not, I found it slightly frustrating.

The story had so many different aspects to it, which I loved. There was plenty of Folklore, fairies, magic, weapons and battles to keep any fantasy and post-apocalyptic enthusiasts entertained for a while. At first, I wasn’t sure how I felt about all these different aspects, seeing as I at first I thought it was just a Zombie novel, but the more I read the more interesting and appealing it was. Along with being a post-apocalyptic novel, we meet another super-natural being – which I thought was totally out of place at first – but looking back, I realised it helped make the novel what it was.

Overall, I enjoyed reading this book; it had so many different twists and turns that I never knew what would happen next. Unfortunately, I did only rate it 3/5 stars because of the aspects mentioned above. Melanie Karsak’s writing was completely different from what I’ve read before and I’ll be sure to check out the sequel to this book, The Shadow Aspect, when it’s released!

Quotes

“If you ever need to slice someone’s head off, this is the blade you want,” I said as I lifted a curved sword off the table in front of me. - Loc 49, 1%.

“Layla, we need more weapons. We’ve cleared out the Lewis’ shop and the Sheriff’s Office, but it’s still not enough. And we really need more ammo,” Will said.
“What about the VFW? They got anything there?” I asked.
Will shook his head. “Just antiques.”
“They’ve got a working cannon. We could use that,” Jeff said.
“Dude, what are you gonna do with a cannon? We’re not fighting the British Armada,” Will replied. Jeff gave Will the finger. - Loc 984, 23%.

KiKi pulled off the headphones. I dropped the paper and pushed open the window. “Jump,” I told KiKi. Following behind her, I bounced out of the window. For the second time, I landed on the roof of the porch. I did not like that this was becoming a trend. - Loc 2919, 69%.

You can follow the rest of the tour here! :)

Review: The Harvesting by Melanie Karsak

Title: The Harvesting.
Author: Melanie Karsak.
Publication Date: September 13th, 2012.
Publisher: Steampunk Press.
Genres: Paranormal, Post-Apocalyptic, Adult.
Format: Kindle eBook.
Source: Recieved E-Copy For Blog Tour.
My Rating:

It's all fun and games until someone ends up undead.

Though Layla reluctantly returns home to rural Hamletville after a desperate call from her psychic grandmother, she could never have anticipated the horror of what Grandma Petrovich has foreseen. The residents of Hamletville will need Layla's help if they are to survive the zombie apocalypse that's upon them. But that is not the only problem. With mankind silenced, it soon becomes apparent that we were never alone. As the beings living on the fringe seek to reclaim power, Layla must find a way to protect the ones she loves or all humanity may be lost.

 

Review

Layla is living successfully and happily in New York when she receives a rather anxious and demanding phone call from the psychic Grandmother that raised her. Layla’s Grandma demands that she must return to her home town straight away, and then hangs up without giving a reason. When Layla arrives, she finds her Grandmother has been stockpiling supplies, getting rid of unnecessary objects and sends Layla out on errands to gather even more necessities – all, again, without telling her what’s going on. Her Grandma teachers her how to load and shoot the firearms she’s stocked up on, and puts her into an induced sleep. Once Layla awakens, she finds the Zombie Apocalypse has spread to her town, turning many of the people into flesh eating Zombies, her Grandma is missing and she now has psychic abilities. However, Layla has to push all that aside as she tries her best to protect the town and the people in it; who have all of a sudden turned to her for guidance.

The Harvesting was a great New Adult/Adult post apocalyptic and fantasy novel all squished into one. I liked this book, I really did; it contained humour and just enough romance to satisfy my girlish need. However there were quite a few things that just irritated me, didn’t seem to fit or I found brought the rating of the book down in general.

Layla, our main character, is the kick-ass heroine who appears in town and helps save the day - pretty predictable, right? Although I liked Layla’s character overall, I didn’t feel that she was very well developed at all. Layla is a fencing/martial arts sword instructor and curator. As the book progressed, I kept hoping that we’d find out more about Layla’s character, past and personality but I was disappointed. She has bad history in the town, leaving after a messy breakup with her high school sweetheart four years ago and hasn’t returned since. The only characteristics I managed to pick up from Layla is that she’s strong-willed, a great sword wielder and a natural born leader.

Throughout the entire novel, we meet quite a few new people from the small town. Although they’re pretty much glossed over and not well described; it was fun to read about them as they blended into the story. Two people we meet in particular are Ian and Jamie, who are brothers from the town. Ian is Layla’s high school sweetheart and ex-boyfriend. I hated Ian from the start, not just because of the things he did to Layla in the past, but because his character was a complete and utter jerk. Jamie is a sweet and kind guy, who’s just come back to the town from being in Iraq as a medic. I loved Jamie from the start, he was such an easy going guy that you could tell that Layla could fully relax and be herself around him.

Although I was disappointed not to know more about the characters personalities, it didn’t stop me from wanting to continue reading this novel. I did find that the novel was constantly jumping from scene to scene; often jumping a month or so into the future with no pre-warning – which was really annoying and hard to keep up with. I also wished there was a lot more detailing than there was, it felt like the author was just gliding over the details and important information. Whether this was intentional or not, I found it slightly frustrating.

The story had so many different aspects to it, which I loved. There was plenty of Folklore, fairies, magic, weapons and battles to keep any fantasy and post-apocalyptic enthusiasts entertained for a while. At first, I wasn’t sure how I felt about all these different aspects, seeing as I at first I thought it was just a Zombie novel, but the more I read the more interesting and appealing it was. Along with being a post-apocalyptic novel, we meet another super-natural being – which I thought was totally out of place at first – but looking back, I realised it helped make the novel what it was.

Overall, I enjoyed reading this book; it had so many different twists and turns that I never knew what would happen next. Unfortunately, I did only rate it 3/5 stars because of the aspects mentioned above. Melanie Karsak’s writing was completely different from what I’ve read before and I’ll be sure to check out the sequel to this book, The Shadow Aspect, when it’s released!

Quotes

“If you ever need to slice someone’s head off, this is the blade you want,” I said as I lifted a curved sword off the table in front of me. - Loc 49, 1%.

“Layla, we need more weapons. We’ve cleared out the Lewis’ shop and the Sheriff’s Office, but it’s still not enough. And we really need more ammo,” Will said.
“What about the VFW? They got anything there?” I asked.
Will shook his head. “Just antiques.”
“They’ve got a working cannon. We could use that,” Jeff said.
“Dude, what are you gonna do with a cannon? We’re not fighting the British Armada,” Will replied. Jeff gave Will the finger. - Loc 984, 23%.

KiKi pulled off the headphones. I dropped the paper and pushed open the window. “Jump,” I told KiKi. Following behind her, I bounced out of the window. For the second time, I landed on the roof of the porch. I did not like that this was becoming a trend. - Loc 2919, 69%.

Teaser Tuesday #26

 

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly book meme hosted by MizB from Should Be Reading. Grab your current read, open to a random page and share two “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page - remember, no spoilers!

Hey Book Nerds! :3 How are you all doing today my lovelies? :) I'm doing well, and I had a great time at the Daffodil Fair that's held in our village every year. I went out to look around for 10 minutes; It was really busy and loud - but great fun! :D There's not a whole lot else to say, nothing overly interesting happened; I've just been relaxing most of today - for some reason I'm really tired! :D I hope you're all having a great start to the week. ^.^

 

Teaser

Title: The Harvesting.
Series: The Harvesting, #1.
Author: Melanie Karsak.
Genres: Paranormal, Post-Apocalyptic, Adult.

Overhead, a hawk shrilled and flew out toward the lake. It was almost like the creature had no idea anything was happening, like it had no idea the world was ending.

- 14%.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Thoughts

I started reading this book yesterday evening and I'm really enjoying it so far! I'm not that far into it, only about 10-15%, but I'm sure it's going to be a good book. ^.^ I'm also part of the blog tour for this book, my stop is on Thursday 8th April, so make sure to keep an eye out for that, my review will be posted within it! :D As for the cover, I think it's quite good - it's very creepy and weird. :P Have any of you read The Harvesting before? Let me know!

 

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What are your teasers for this Tuesday? Leave me a comment or a link to your blog post and I'll be sure to check it out! :D Happy Reading. (:

Review: Breathe by Sarah Crossan

Title: Breathe.
Series: Breathe, #1.
Author: Sarah Crossan.
Publication Date: October 2nd, 2012.
Publisher: Bloomsbury.
Genres: Dystopia, Post-Apocalyptic, Young Adult.
Format: Paperback, 384 pages.
Source: Provided By Publisher.
My Rating:

When oxygen levels plunge in a treeless world, a state lottery decides which lucky few will live inside the Pod. Everyone else will slowly suffocate. Years after the Switch, life inside the Pod has moved on. A poor Auxiliary class cannot afford the oxygen tax which supplies extra air for running, dancing and sports. The rich Premiums, by contrast, are healthy and strong. Anyone who opposes the regime is labelled a terrorist and ejected from the Pod to die.

Sixteen-year-old Alina is part of the secret resistance, but when a mission goes wrong she is forced to escape from the Pod. With only two days of oxygen in her tank, she too faces the terrifying prospect of death by suffocation. Her only hope is to find the mythical Grove, a small enclave of trees protected by a hardcore band of rebels. Does it even exist, and if so, what or who are they protecting the trees from? A dystopian thriller about courage and freedom, with a love story at its heart.

 

Review

“Oxygen is essential for most living things. For 2.5 billion years, it was the most abundant chemical element on Earth. Until the Switch.”

The world is in disrepair. Global warming has devastated the entire planet and the humans have cut down all the trees as the population grew. The seas have been polluted and destroyed and the oxygen levels are incredibly low. The remaining survivors have found a way to survive; Pod’s have been erected around the globe by the Corporation Breathe. Inside the Pod’s, the survivors breathe in clean and clear air, although it’s limited. You can’t run, dance, sing or do anything that’ll use up extra oxygen if you’re an “Auxiliary” – a person who is as low down on the totem pole as you can get. These people have to pay for their air, and get taxed if they use more than their daily allowance.

Premiums however, don’t have to pay for their air – these people are right at the top and as rich as can be. The Premiums can do whatever they like, and are treated with respect. Our story follows three teenagers who venture out of the pod; Quinn, who is a Premium, Bea; Quinn’s best friend who is an Auxiliary and Alina; who’s part of the Resistance. Together, with only two days worth of air strapped in tanks to their backs, the three try to work together to save the rest of the people in the Pod from the Breathe Corporation.

Wow, this book was incredible, with such an original storyline too! At random intervals during this novel, I was a bit sceptical as to what direction it was heading in, but it always worked out – and I don’t believe it could have been written differently. The book is rather fast paced, moving from one scene to another quite quickly, building suspense and drawing it out at times. Sometimes it felt like one minute the characters were eating their dinner and the next something explodes or someone dies – but I didn’t mind this at all.

The novel is broken down into multiple view points of our three main characters; Quinn, Bea and Alina. I love reading the different characters perspectives of what’s happening and how they’re really reacting to situations around them. A lot of the time, people mask their true feelings; they could be happy on the outside, yet drowning in grief on the inside. So it’s always great to read how the other characters are actually feeling for a change, rather than a guessed analysis from another character.

First off, we have Quinn – a Premium. The Premium’s are the elite kind; the people who are high up on the totem pole and are very, very rich. Quinn’s father works for the Breathe Corporation and can provide his family with as much oxygen as they want. Although he comes from a high-class background, Quinn is nowhere near stuck up and doesn’t take what he has for granted. He always wants to help his best friend, Bea – paying for their oxygen for their camping trip they take outside the Pod and caring profusely for Bea, like she were his sibling. Many of the times whilst I was reading Quinn’s point of view, I found myself laughing. He’s such an upbeat person with a good sense of humour, yet fails to see how Bea really feels about him. Honestly! Why are men so blind?

Secondly we have Bea, who was my favourite character. Bea is an “Auxiliary”, the lowest of the low - way down on the totem pole of society. She keeps her head down and tries not to use up excess oxygen her family can’t afford to pay for. Bea’s a kind-hearted, helpful and good person, who may seem like a goody-two-shoes at times, but in reality she’s actually just following her heart and listening to her conscience. I really respect that about Bea’s character, she’s grown up believing all the lies that have been fed to her, yet when she starts learning the truth, she strives to do what’s right. Bea is also hopelessly in love with Quinn, her best friend. Unfortunately for her, he’s as dense as a brick when it comes down to it. Poor girl! So, I think it’s pretty hard not to love her character.

Lastly we have Alina. Alina is part of the Resistance, a group of people that has taken a stand against the Pod’s government, most of whom live outside the Pod in the outlands. The resistance wants to plant trees and plants, and has been doing so, trying to keep them away from the destructive hands of the Pod’s Government. I didn’t particularly like Alina’s character very much if I’m perfectly honest. Although she was on the lower end of the totem pole in the Pod, an “Auxiliary”, she really irritated me for some reason. I did like her a bit more as the book progressed, she became less hostile and bit more friendly and caring - but she was hardly my favourite character of the week. Over all I just thought she was a bit stuck up and a bit of a snob.

The romance in this book was very minimal, which is usually a bit of a downer to me - however, Bea is deeply devoted to Quinn, and Quinn can’t seem to take his eyes off Alina’s ‘assets’. Quinn’s attitude around Alina is hilarious and although I’m a big sucker for romance, I didn’t mind that this book was lacking in it. There were still the soppy and romantic thoughts from Bea randomly throughout the book and the hilarity of Quinn trying way too hard to impress Alina. These kept me going whilst reading it, and I loved the ending.

Overall, the characters weren’t hugely developed, but I thought that the pace and excitement throughout the novel made up for it. I rated this book as 4/5 stars, mainly because I would of loved to read more about the world building with more detail, rather than just a page of two of writing about how the Pod came to be. Also, I do think that the story was a little lacking in emotion – with all the murder, lying and the inability to breathe outside the pod. I feel it could have been played up a bit more, not so much to a point where it would wrench your heart out - but so you could feel the characters pain more. I do hope the sequel will be more developed and built upon.

Still, I found this novel amazing and I really loved it, Sarah Crossan’s writing is intriguing, interesting and brilliant. I can’t wait for the sequel to be released so I can get my hands on it and devour it!

Quotes

We are in Zone One, with its clean boulevards and mirrored buildings. Every person we pass is pristinely dressed, with face masks strapped to their self-satisfied faces and connected to air tanks tied to their hips. They are all Premiums, of course, and when they see us, their gazes shift away. Ever so slightly. - Page 06.

No matter what happens outside, we are sheltered here: no rain or snow in the winter, no humidity or heat in the summer. The temperature is always perfect and the air always clear; the pod protects us from every element. - Page 40.

'I want to know who you were with and where he went. Does your family live in the pod? How about your friends? What have you been doing out here? Planting? Cultivating the earth?' The general laughs. 'You people don't seem to realise that what you're doing is pointless. Do you know how long it would take to re-oxygenate the planet? A millennium. And by that time you'll be long dead.'
'Then why are you chasing us?' Inger shouts. - Page 204.