.Ficbookreviews

Ashes and Ice by Rochelle Maya Callen

2013-02-23T14:01:00.000+11:00

She is desperate to remember.
He is aching to forget.
Together, they are not broken.
But together, one may not survive.

Jade wakes up with no memory of her past and blood on her hands.

Plagued by wicked thoughts, she searches for answers. Instead, she finds a boy who doesn't offer her answers, but hope. But sometimes, when nightmares turn into reality and death follows you everywhere, hope is not enough.

LUST. LOVE. LOSS. Sometimes, all that is left are Ashes and Ice.

Ashes & Ice by Rochelle Maya Callen +Goodreads
Series: Ashes & Ice #1
Published February 4th 2013 by C&C Legacy Publishing

"I hope it's sunny at my funeral."
And if I really am wicked, I hope that day comes sooner rather than later.

Wow, that ending.. Didn't see that coming.
So I guess you could say I enjoyed this book so much. I have always fascinated with angels and demons stories especially when it has a romance twist in it. It started with a young girl named Jade who couldn't remember her past. But Jade with her green ice and no memories, isn't your average normal girl. And then she met this broken young boy Connor along the way. And from there the story begins..

Ring around the rosie, a pocket full of posies. Ashes, ashes. We all fall down.

Though I should mention that the first half of the book seemed like it didn't actually have a plot and that there were times that I couldn't understand what was happening, only when it get to the other half that I finally understood everything. I know it might sound terrible, but you see, reading Connor's and Jade's POV were good enough for me. I for once couldn't put the book down. To make it short, these two were the highlights of this book. Amazing characters. Connor is my favorite. I love him! He is broken and I just wanted to give him a hug.. poor kid. Also, I was hooked with the dark and somber tone of the story.

We cry in our own rooms, remembering a man who will never be here again.
The house creaks. Maybe it feels the weight of our grief, maybe the floorboards are buckling because the burden is too heavy.

Jade is kind of hard for me to explain but she's both good and wicked!

Now I see him clearly, even through the rain and distance, I see him perfectly. Tears try to blend in with the rain, but fail. I see his tears. His precious, pained tears.
And all I can do is stare.
Something within me shifts.
Annoyance to curiosity,
Impatience to sympathy.
Reluctance to desire---desire to understand how and why he can weep like the rain.

Well the thing about this book is I cant tell much more as I'm afraid I would give away so much and mess it up for you. The writing was definitely beautiful and captivating and so full of emotions. I would have given this book 5 stars if not for those little confusing moments and a little lack of details. But other than that this book was awesome. Loved the characters, loved the words and that ending LOVED IT.. I am dying for the second book! I'm so glad I read this, and sooo many lovely quotes too check it out.

Quotes from Ashes and Ice

Love is a sliver of sunlight peeking through the darkness; a whisper of hope when all is lost.

Now the world will see what I am. Vulnerable. Ugly. Evil. Lost. Sad. Angry. Numb.
And dead.

Connor's hand, rough with calluses, holds mine. If I had a heart, it would be in my hand--a solemn offering to be held in the palm of his, desperate to be comforted and held like a soft, delicate thing.

His heartbeat is the most beautiful sound in the world.

People can change... no matter where they come from, no matter where they think they ought to go, people can make their own way.

That's all you need, cher. A few people in your life who fill it up and give you good memories to hold onto.

Wasting time is a stupid thing to do in this big ol' ugly world.

The Archived by Victoria Schwab

2013-02-02T15:11:00.000+11:00

Imagine a place where the dead rest on shelves like books.

Each body has a story to tell, a life seen in pictures that only Librarians can read. The dead are called Histories, and the vast realm in which they rest is the Archive.

Da first brought Mackenzie Bishop here four years ago, when she was twelve years old, frightened but determined to prove herself. Now Da is dead, and Mac has grown into what he once was, a ruthless Keeper, tasked with stopping often-violent Histories from waking up and getting out. Because of her job, she lies to the people she loves, and she knows fear for what it is: a useful tool for staying alive.

Being a Keeper isn't just dangerous-it's a constant reminder of those Mac has lost. Da's death was hard enough, but now her little brother is gone too. Mac starts to wonder about the boundary between living and dying, sleeping and waking. In the Archive, the dead must never be disturbed. And yet, someone is deliberately altering Histories, erasing essential chapters. Unless Mac can piece together what remains, the Archive itself might crumble and fall.

In this haunting, richly imagined novel, Victoria Schwab reveals the thin lines between past and present, love and pain, trust and deceit, unbearable loss and hard-won redemption.

The Archived by Victoria Schwab
Series: The Archived #1
Published January 22nd 2013 by Hyperion
Buy it: Book Depository free shipping

He fought the men and he slayed the
monsters and he bested the gods, and at
last the hero, having conquered all,
earned the thing that he wanted most. To
go home.

This book is simply AMAZING. It's been awhile since I've read a book like this-imaginative and delicious, and it's about time! And I am quite surprised how UNIQUE this book turned out, a different take on the DEAD that we normally read. Yes, I'm talking about zombies. Atleast that's what I've understood. Up until now, I'm still awe-struck with how flippin good this book is. The premise was enough for me to pine for this book, but for a book to live up to my expectations, boy I was over the moon.

Do not stand at my grave
and weep
I am not there; I do not sleep. - Mary Elizabeth Frye

The author's writing is just beautiful, with all the luscious words, I devoured every pages in one day. It started with a heartfelt letter/diary/memory from our girl Mackenzie to her already dead grandfather Da. And then from Mackenzie's point of view. So basically it was laid out in two different perspective but from the same character, if I'm making any sense. I thought that was just very clever because it serves a purpose.

Stories about winding halls, and invisible doors, and places are kept like books on shelves. Each time you finish a story, you make me tell it back to you, as if you're afraid I will forget.
I never do.

Next is the world-building. I love how Victoria created such a vivid wonderful world like this. I'd like to be in it. It made me think it could be real. I could picture the Coronado hotel-turned-apartment building, huge and ancient. The Archive, is another world where they stack all the dead, History. But there's also the Narrows, dark hallways with so many doors, and roaming History. And the Outer, which basically our world. But the Archive is not complete without The Librarians. How cool is that? But they are not your ordinary Librarians. How come? Well you have to read it and see for yourself.

"The only things the tree places have in common," you say, "are doors. Doors in, doors out.And doors need keys."

The characters were just made of awesome. From the main to the supporting characters. I love Mackenzie, I thought she's one of the best main character out there. She's a kickass, smart and likeable heroine but flawed(in a good way). Because that's how real person is, flawed, imperfect. Mackenzie is still grieving for her brother, and reading her words made my heart ache for her. I felt bad for what she was going through and proud of her for being strong despite everything that happened. Then there's Wesley, how do I describe this boy with a goth look just only so he can irritate his own father? *SQUEALS*! That is all. And Roland, I think he is awesome too, the Librarian with the red Chucks. And Da, that even if he's dead, I thought he was such a great character from Mackenzie's retelling her memories of him.

It was a sea of brick below me. But if I looked up, I could have been anywhere.

I think I'll end my gushing here, don't want to spoil your reading! :) The Archived is one of my favorite read of all time. It was so refreshing and just captivating. This book brought so many emotions out of me and I love this book for that. I think I would recommend this book for those who loves paranormal with romance, and murder mystery twists.

Quotes from The Archived

“Not everything holds memories,” you
say. “Not every memory’s worth holding."

Da used to say that only fools and cowards
scorned fear. Fear keeps you alive.

“You know, the
thing about a book like this is that it’s meant to be
heard, not read.”

He raises a brow. “I sound like a rock band?”
“Don’t look so flattered. You sound like a rock
band being thrown out of a truck."

"Keep your lies clean, and your worlds as far apart as possible.”

“What if I mess up?”
“Oh, you will. You’ll mess up, you’ll
make mistakes, you’ll break things. Some
you’ll be able to piece together, and
others you’ll lose. That’s all a given.
But there’s only one thing you have to do
for me.”
“What’s that?”
“Stay alive long enough to mess up
again.”

Scatterheart by Lili Wilkinson

2013-01-23T17:51:00.003+11:00

Scatterheart by Lili Wilkinson.

The turnkey pushed Hannah into the cell, and clanged the door shut behind her. Hannah’s eyes stung and she felt a heavy churning in her belly. The smell of urine, vomit, sweat and rotting flesh was overpowering, and she broke out in a hot, prickly sweat, despite the icy night.

1814, London Town. Hannah Cheshire - wealthy and spoiled - has fallen from grace. Punishment: transportation to the colony of New South Wales.

Published January 15th 2009 by Coppenrath Verlag

Dark and gritty.
This book was amazing. Couldn't put it down. There were never a time that I got bored with it. I enjoyed this book so much I thought it was impressively written. A YA historical novel with a combination of romance and suspense. I came across this book a year after I moved here in Australia, and hardly knew its history but because of this book I kind of research for more. Set in Old London, where convicts either get hanged or transported in the place called New South Wales which I believe is here in Australia (east o'f the sun and west o' the moon). The author said that some of the things that happened in her book are unfortunately not from her imagination, that they all happened right here in Australia. Ofcourse some of it are just fiction.

Hannah is a very interesting female character. She isn't the one you will like straight away, but eventually you will. Since she came from a family of Quality, she was a spoiled and selfish girl. I think that what makes the story a lot better. Our Hannah is obviously flawed, which made me love this book even more. Her character development is fantastic.

Young Thomas Behr was Hanna's tutor, a commoner. One day, her father decided to sack Thomas, for he believed Thomas is no longer needed his service. Then one night, Hannah's father left and never came back, Thomas who loves her so much came for Hannah and offered her a marriage and to come with him to NSW. but Hannah who was misled by his father, said no that she is only to marry someone like her, of Quality and that her father will come home soon. Thomas whose heart was broken by this fled and left. From there, her life will never be the same again....her journey took a horrifying turn.

How far would you go to make things right and get back things to the way they were before?

Would you choose to love someone you expect to have everything you want?

Well I hope I'm making sense up there im so all over this book that I dont know whats the right word to describe it. And by the way, Lovely cover isn't it?

Quotes from Scatterheart:

"Once upon a time, there was a girl called Scatterheart, who was selfish and vain, with a heart as fickle as the changing winds...."

Hannah looked indignant.'Certainly not. I'm not supposed to be here. It's all a mistake. I havent done anythng wrong.' Long Meg laughed her great roar of a laugh again.' Sure you aint. None of us have, have we lads?' She spread her arms wide. One or two people acknowledged her with a nod or a wink. She turned to Hannah.'We's all innocent, pet. All of us.

'Dont you think its time for you to get a real job, Thomas?'he said. 'Youve been here for nearly four years, dangling after my daughter. Its getting unseemly. You should go and find yourself some pretty serving wench to marry. Some who is closer to your own station of life.'

How far would you go to make things right and bring back things the way they were before?

Would you choose to love someone you expect to have everything you want ?

RECOMMENDED.

Back To The Future Giveaway Hop CLOSED

2013-01-22T11:55:00.000+11:00

Back to the Future - A Giveaway Hop Across Time January 22nd to 28th hosted by I Am A Reader Co-hosted by Book Haven Extraordinaire

My 2nd Blogoversary is coming very soon (February) so this is more like my early celebration. There are more giveaways to come so don't forget to come by again next time.

My Back to the Future Giveaway International: You have to pick 1 book only. Either Scatterheart by Lili Wilkinson which is a historical fiction novel with romance twist, I love this book! And the other is one of my favorite Slated by Teri Terry, a futuristic fiction novel about a young girl whose memory had been erased completely by the Lorders.

Scatterheart by Lili Wilkinson (Goodreads)

The turnkey pushed Hannah into the cell, and clanged the door shut behind her. Hannah’s eyes stung and she felt a heavy churning in her belly. The smell of urine, vomit, sweat and rotting flesh was overpowering, and she broke out in a hot, prickly sweat, despite the icy night.

1814, London Town. Hannah Cheshire - wealthy and spoiled - has fallen from grace. Punishment: transportation to the colony of New South Wales.

OR

Slated by Teri Terry

Kyla’s memory has been erased,
her personality wiped blank,
her memories lost for ever.

She’s been Slated.

The government claims she was a terrorist, and that they are giving her a second chance - as long as she plays by their rules. But echoes of the past whisper in Kyla’s mind. Someone is lying to her, and nothing is as it seems. Who can she trust in her search for the truth?

Please use the Rafflecopter below. And remeber, the more entries , the more chances of winning. :)
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Dreaming of Books Giveaway Hop CLOSED

2013-01-18T09:58:00.000+11:00

Hello! Welcome to the 3rd Annual Dreaming of Books Giveaway Hop January 18th to 24th Hosted by I Am Reader, Not A Writer and Co-hosted by Reviews by Martha's Bookshelf. This is my first time to participate in this event so I am very excited. Make sure you check out the rest of the participants below to win more prizes! So good luck everyone.

Giveaway: $10 book from The Book Depository. And it's International. :)
Please use the Rafflecopter. And also, the more entries the more chances of winning. :)

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For more Giveaways, check out the links below.

Ficbookreviews Highlight: Author Edition + A Fabulous Giveaway {Closed}

2013-01-04T22:26:00.000+11:00

Hello guys, welcome to our Highlight event! Today we have Kathleen Peacock, Cassandra Rose Clarke, Aimee Carter and Laura Bickle to answer 2 random questions. Plus a hardback copy of Deadly Hemlock + signed bookplate and The Assassin's Curse giveaway and a surprise gift for the lucky winner. Thank you so much authors for participating! And enjoy reading my lovely readers. x

Kathleen Peacock, author of Hemlock

How do you get yourself focused/in the mood when writing a book?
My writing is really dependent on music. I obsessively create playlists and often have specific songs for individual scenes and characters. When I get stuck on a scene or plot point, finding the right music is usually the fastest way to get myself unstuck. When I'm editing, I focus by listening to "My Skin" by Natalie Merchant or "Somewhere a Clock is Ticking" by Snow Patrol on repeat.

What is your favorite book and why?
That changes each day. There are just way too many wonderful books to ever settle on one. Three that rank highly on the list, though, are The Night Circus, Practical Magic, and Howl's Moving Castle. Each makes me believe in magic and true love. I think the world would be a better place if more people believed in those two things (though that may be why I've been accused of being a naïve and hopeless romantic).

Book(s):

Hemlock, Hemlock Series #1

Visit Kathleen on her Website | Goodreads | Twitter

Cassandra Rose Clarke, author of The Assassin's Curse

How do you get yourself focused/in the mood when writing a book?
It sort of depends. Sometimes I'm just in the mood to write regardless, so I don't have to do anything! Those, of course, are the best days. But other times I'll really be dragging on getting work done. This tends to happen in the middle of a book the most, I've noticed, and there's really nothing you can do except push through to the end. One way I like to motivate myself is to get out of the house and go work at a coffeeshop. Back when I first started doing this, I would go to Starbucks, because at the time Starbucks charged for Internet access and I was trying to get away from the Internet for awhile. That's no longer the case, but I still find that getting out of the house makes writing more like an official job (albeit a fun one) and so I get a lot more done.

What is your favorite book and why?
I've talked about my favorite adult novel before -- that's The Blind Assassin, by Margaret Atwood. But my favorite YA novel is probably Weetzie Bat, by Francesca Lia Block. It's one of the few books I've read several times, and although it is a bit dated now (it was written in the late '80s), I still love the core story of Weetzie Bat creating a family for herself in the middle of Los Angeles. One of my favorite things about the book (and about Block's written in general) is the way she embues her descriptions of the everyday world with so much glitzy, dreamy magic that the everyday world starts to feel fantastic. It reminds me of how things are when you're a kid, and everything seems magical.
Book(s):

The Assassin's Curse, The Assassin's Curse Series #1
The Mad Scientist's Daughter

Visit Cassandra on her Website | Goodreads | Twitter

Aimee Carter, author of The Goddess Test

How do you get yourself focused/in the mood when writing a book?
I try to ignore my moods and just get the work done. For me, it's very much sit down, turn off the internet, and write. It takes some amount of will power, but I always get the most work done when I'm not constantly checking my email or Twitter.

Fill in the blank: Oh I wish I were.... - A punk rocker! But only because that's the first lyric of one of my favorite songs by Sandi Thom. I'm very happy being me.

Book(s):

The Goddess Test, Goddess Test Series #1
The Goddess Interrupted, Goddess Test Series 2

Visit Aimee on her Website | Goodreads | Twitter

Laura Bickle, author of The Hallowed Ones

How do you get yourself focused/in the mood when writing a book?
My favorite place to write is out on the patio, where I can hear the frogs and the crickets. I can’t write very fast or well in front of the television…I have to really shut the door on distractions to get focus. I know a lot of writers who can write in busy coffee shops, but that’s not me. Too much going on, and I can’t get immersed in the work if there’s the constant temptation of chocolate..

What is your favorite book and why?
My all-time favorite is Robin McKinley’s HERO AND THE CROWN. I read it when I was a pre-teen, and fell in love with fantasy ever after. It was the first book I’d read that had a female protagonist who slew her own dragons. I was hooked.

Book(s):

The Hallowed Ones, The Hallowed Ones Series #1
Embers
Sparks

Visit Laura on her Website | Goodreads | Twitter

Prize 1: USA/Canada only for the hardback copy of Hemlock + signed bookplate and paperback copy of The Assassin's Curse

Prize 2: Its International! For the 2nd winner, you will also win a $10 Giftcard from Amazon or $10 book from The Book Depository.

Terms and Condition:

    Must be age 13 yr old and above.
    1st Prize: US/CANADA for the paperback copy of Hemlock and The Assassin's Curse.
     2nd Prize: INTERNATIONAL for $10 Amazon Giftcard.
    Winners will be emailed and must reply within 24hrs otherwise will choose another winner

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Through The Ever Night (Under The Never Sky #2) by Veronica Rossi

2013-01-04T02:08:00.003+11:00

It's been months since Aria last saw Perry. Months since Perry was named Blood Lord of the Tides, and Aria was charged with an impossible mission. Now, finally, they are about to be reunited. But their reunion is far from perfect. The Tides don't take kindly to Aria, a former Dweller. And with the worsening Aether storms threatening the tribe's precarious existence, Aria begins to fear that leaving Perry behind might be the only way to save them both.

Threatened by false friends, hidden enemies, and powerful temptations, Aria and Perry wonder, Can their love survive through the ever night?

In this second book in her spellbinding Under the Never Sky trilogy, Veronica Rossi combines fantasy and dystopian elements to create a captivating love story as perilous as it is unforgettable.

Through The Ever Night by Veronica Rossi
Series: Under The Never Sky #2
Publication Date: January 8, 2013
Published by: HarperCollins
Price: $17.99 US / $23.99 Can. Hardback

*Thank you HarperCollins for the review copy*

Love is a rebellious bird that nobody can tame.

Love this book so much! Through The Ever Night picked up right where the first book left us. No, I am not going to spoil your reading so this review will be short and sweet. I couldn't stop reading this book and I didn't want to miss anything. Its so so good. I actually re-read Under The Never Sky first and I hardly read a book twice, in fact, I've only re-read a couple books in my entire life and that includes Harry Potter series. But I just had to relive UTNS again. And I'm certain I will be doing that to this book, too. Such a great series. Veronica Rossi is a very talented author that will captivate you and enthrall you through her beautiful writing. I could hear people's laughter and the splashing waves in the background while reading it snuggled up with my fluffy blanket in my bed and a cup of hot chocolate on the side table and poof! I'm transported into a totally different world.

I miss you.
I miss you. I miss you, I miss you.
Be ready, because when I see you, I'll never let you go again.

The character development were truly AMAZING, Aria became a strong woman emotionally and physically. From the first book she found out that she's an Aud like Roar. She's not only a kickass but also a very humble and mature heroine. Perry finally become the Blood Lord, like he'd always wanted, and now he has the full responsibility of being their leader and keeping his tribe alive, not only from running out of food or other tribes raiding them but from the bloody Aether. Also you will be getting to know more of Roar here, and finally meet the apple of his eyes, Liv. Perry and Roar, OMFG. One word, FEAST. Aria and Perry are the best couple ever, I am yet to love Liv for Roar though, will see.

Love was like the waves in the sea, gentle and good sometimes, rough and terrible at others, but that it was endless and stronger than the sky and earth and everything in between.

The plot is darker than the first book but the humor is still there which was really good. And then there's emotional conflict and tension in their romance that will get their relationships put to the test. There's also new characters and surprises along the way. This was such a great experience and I am dying to get my hands on the third book. Bummed that I have to wait for a year again. HOLLY EFF!

This series is definitely one of my favorite series of all time. And I highly recommend this to those who love post-apocalyptic romance. And YES, fans of Under The Never Sky, you will surely enjoy this book like I did! Love i t. x

My favorite Quotes from Through The Ever Night

A good dream was something you clung to until the last moment before waking.

"Ideals belong in a world only the wise man can understand," Marron said quietly.

"Leaders need to see clearly in darkness, Peregrine. You already do that."

"You know, glass is pretty easy to break, Aria." Roar was watching here, his gaze thoughtful.

There was nothing more painful than hurting someone you loved.

Avow by Chelsea Fine

2012-12-28T19:12:00.000+11:00

Scarlet remembers. Everything. Her past lives, Tristan, Gabriel, Nate: she remembers it all--including how to get to the Fountain of Youth. But time is running out.

Heather and Gabriel have been kidnapped by Raven, while the curse that has plagued Scarlet and Tristan for centuries has shifted, putting the star-crossed lovers in more danger than ever before. Water from the Fountain of Youth is the only thing that can save Scarlet and her loved ones. But the water comes at a price.

With lives--and hearts--at stake, Scarlet leads her friends on a dangerous journey to the Fountain of Youth. Where eternal life is possible, but death is certain.

Published December 11th 2012 by Firefall Publishing

Freedom without love is not freedom at all.

Wow, this book was uber amazing. They all were! This trilogy can make someone believe in love again! From the first until the third book, it was just perfect. There is so much emotion, sadness, anger, but mostly, overwhelming joy. Chelsea Fine is such a fabulous writer. She creates this magical world that blends perfectly with real life and you'd get totally lost in the story. She makes characters that becomes real to her readers and easily fall in love with them. She writes a story that kept me hooked from start to finish, with nail biting twists.

Nate lifted his head. “When Molly was dying; when she was fading away and I was a useless, empty soul jealous of her mortality, do you know what she said to me?”
Tristan had never seen such a hopeless expression on Nate’s facebefore.“She said, ‘Nate, you have no way
to die, so you need to find a reason to live.’"
Tristan pressed a fist to his mouth, not sure what to say to that.

Scarlet finally remembered her past life and now she knows where to find the Fountain of Youth but it's not easy. Things turned pretty much messy and their life will be in danger. Will they get to the Fountain of Youth before it's too late? Will Scarlet, Tristan and Gabriel be free of their god-awful curse?

There is a difference between a heart that no longer aches and a heart that no longer feels. And Scarlet’s heart no longer felt anything.

It was hard not to smile and not have fun with these characters. Scarlet is a kickass, Nate was freaking hilarious, and I think that Heather and Gabriel are perfect for each other. And ofcourse, Tristan is as hot as always. I love them all!

A great open-ended ending to The Archers of Avalon trilogy! I cried! But Chelsea didnt leave me on the floor bawling. She did it just the way I wanted it to end, and I really appreciate that. I also love how "love" plays the biggest part in this amazing story. Very inspiring. And the brotherhood of these twins were so believable, yes, because I am very close to my sister as well.

I recommend this series to those who love paranormal romance with immortals and reincarnation. Infact, I recommend this to everyone! And man, these quotes below are my favorites! There are more but it would be really long so these will do. Happy reading. x

Quotes from Avow:

“Sometimes love makes hard decisions for the sake of what needs protecting.”

“Yes, love should fight. But there is a difference between a valiant fight and a selfish fight. And love is not selfish.”

"You are my brother,” Tristan said with resolve. “Nothing could end us.

But then she thought of Tristan and she wasn’t afraid.
Staring out into the twilight forest,she whispered, “There is no victory without a battle.”

“It doesn’t matter! Two things you never comment on when it comes to girls: their age and their weight. That’s male survival 101. Come on!”

Gabriel watched her with narrowed eyes and slowly said, “You look old.”
Heather’s mouth fell open.
Good God. Don’t anger the crazy lady.
Raven slapped him, hard. “That’s what happens when your supply of fountain water starts to run out and you
have to dilute it. You age. Magic can only do so much.”
“Sucks to be you,” Gabriel said.
Clearly, he did not value his life.

Gabriel was a reckless star, casting about wherever he may, exploding into whoever made him feel alive, and burning casualties in his wake.

Nothing.
The pain vanished, leaving numbness in its wake.
Scarlet was gone.

The Raven Boys (Raven Cycle) by Maggie Stiefvater

2012-12-13T00:18:00.002+11:00

“There are only two reasons a non-seer would see a spirit on St. Mark’s Eve,” Neeve said. “Either you’re his true love . . . or you killed him.”

It is freezing in the churchyard, even before the dead arrive.

Every year, Blue Sargent stands next to her clairvoyant mother as the soon-to-be dead walk past. Blue herself never sees them—not until this year, when a boy emerges from the dark and speaks directly to her.

His name is Gansey, and Blue soon discovers that he is a rich student at Aglionby, the local private school. Blue has a policy of staying away from Aglionby boys. Known as Raven Boys, they can only mean trouble.

But Blue is drawn to Gansey, in a way she can’t entirely explain. He has it all—family money, good looks, devoted friends—but he’s looking for much more than that. He is on a quest that has encompassed three other Raven Boys: Adam, the scholarship student who resents all the privilege around him; Ronan, the fierce soul who ranges from anger to despair; and Noah, the taciturn watcher of the four, who notices many things but says very little.

For as long as she can remember, Blue has been warned that she will cause her true love to die. She never thought this would be a problem. But now, as her life becomes caught up in the strange and sinister world of the Raven Boys, she’s not so sure anymore.

From Maggie Stiefvater, the bestselling and acclaimed author of the Shiver trilogy and The Scorpio Races, comes a spellbinding new series where the inevitability of death and the nature of love lead us to a place we’ve never been before.

Published September 18th 2012 by Scholastic Press

Blue had two rules: Stay away from boys, because they’re trouble, and stay away from raven boys, because they were bastards.

I don't know with you guys, but I think Maggie Stiefvater is not human. No, I refuse to believe she is. Maybe a freaking faery? This is the second book Ive read by Maggie and her book always gives me cause for melancholy mood and awe-struck impression at the same time. Magical, just magical. I love this book but I find it hard to write a review without giving too much away so I am just going to share what I felt about it.

God, I love these raven boys. These characters are somewhat mysterious and unforgettable. The more I read the more I starve for them. I just couldn't get enough! I love them all, Noah, Adam, Gansey and Ronan. I love how their relationships between each other were laid open, they care for each other like real brothers do. Blue(girl) is also a likeable character but not as interesting as these boys. Though the blurb above may sound romantic, there is no heavy romance here, atleast not in this book. Hopefully in the sequel!

Maggie tells the story in a unique, complex, and unpredictable way that I was left guessing at every turns and was dying with anticipation. I was scared with how it's going to end, that I had to put it down several times. Though, this book is superb, I have to admit that there were confusing moments too. The Raven Boys is in multiple third-person narrative, which will work well for many readers, but not for all I guess. Because complexity also has some issues, confusion will definitely arise. But I will not be discouraged! :) I loved how the characters and plot intertwined, but there is still more questions that needed answers. Anyway I hope I made sense up there. lol.

Real family issues, friendship, life and death and magic. An amazing fantasy book! Can't wait for the second book! HAPPY READING <3

Quotes from The Raven Boys:

Blue never grew tired of feeling particularly needed, but sometimes she wishedneeded felt less like a synonym for useful.

Is this how we make our way to death? Blue wondered. A stumbling fade-out instead of a self-aware finale?

“Don’t try to make this better,” Declan warned. As he pulled Ashley out into the tiny stairwell and down the stairs, Adam heard the beginnings of damage control: He has problems, I told you, I tried to make sure he wouldn’t be here, he’s the one who found Dad, it messed him up, let’s go get seafood instead, don’t you think we look like lobster tonight? We do

Oh no. Not him. All this time she’d been wondering how Gansey might die and it turned out she was going to strangle him. At Nino’s, the blare of the music had drowned out the finer points of his voice and the odor of garlic had overwhelmed the scent of mint.

Stacking The Shelves

2012-12-08T22:37:00.003+11:00

Yay! So I've already overcome that horrible horrible bookslump, thanks to my short break ofcourse, I've occupied myself with work and with watching lots of Romance Anime. Back to normal! Although it's sad to see 2012 go, I cannot wait for January 2013 to come, some of my favorite series are going to be out that time!

Anyway, here is what I've got for this week. :=) Thanks so much to Penguin Australia and Bloomsburry Australia. Happy Reading and Happy Weekend guys!

Dance of Shadows by Yelena Black The Farm by Emily Mckay

Jordana Nail Polish in Holiday Red from Bloomsbury Australia . This was included with Dance of Shadows. Thank you so much! Loved this color!

Must-Watch Anime! #bookslump

2012-11-27T11:33:00.001+11:00

Man, I have been in a book slump for almost 3 weeks now. I couldn't enjoy a story, physical or ebooks. Not. A. Single. Damn. Book. The moment I start reading I couldn't get myself to care with the story sometimes Id try reading 50 pages and still have no freaking clue what the hell was going on. All of them are now on my DNF or will-read-later list. It's a nightmare.

Well, almost.

While I was(still am sadly) in a book slump, I thought I needed a short break from books(Yes, short break, I love blogging about books so much so yep), so I turned my attention to my second love(hobby) aside from reading, watching anime. And God, I am so glad I did(because I was about to lose my cool), I found some great Romance anime that I am sure you will like too. So if you are just new in Anime or just want to know some good anime to watch then check these anime out.

Honey And Clover (Season 1 and 2 only)

Takemoto Yuuta, Mayama Takumi, and Morita Shinobu are college students who share the small apartment. Even though they live in poverty, the three of them are able to obtain pleasure through small things in life. The story follows these characters' life stories as poor college students, as well as their love lives when a short but talented 18 year old girl called Hanamoto Hagumi appears.

Ahh, I love this anime, top 1 on my list(2nd is Naruto ofcourse). It was a heartfelt story, a kind of story that will stay with you for a very very long time. It was realistic and beautiful and funny too. Brings back memories when I was in college. My heart aches for every character. It was just amazing. It's about friendship, dreams, life, unrequited love. For those who wants a love triangle, this one is the ONE. At some point, Moon River song has been part of the story. Makes me cry whenever I hear this song.

Sukitte Iinayo (Newest and On-going)

Mei Tachibana has spent her 16 years without a boyfriend or friends. One day, she injures the most popular boy in school, Yamato Kurosawa, due to a misunderstanding. For some reason though, it seems that he takes a liking to her and one-sidedly claims that they're friends. Furthermore, he not only protects Mei from a stalker, but does so with a kiss…?!!

You guys, I did alot of fangirl scream here, and also make sure you have your tissue besides you. I love this anime so much, Yamato makes me swoon and Mei is soooo cute. Also there is going to be a love triangle sooo OMG, Im so excited for more of this series! Cant tell you that much because its still new(only 8 episodes out at the moment) but seriously, you must watch this!

Tonari no Kaibutsu-kun

Mizutani Shizuku is the type of person who only cares for her own grades. But when she accidentally delivers lesson notes to Yoshida Haru, he becomes convinced they are friends. Haru turns out to have a very innocent personality, but who would've thought that Haru would actually confess to Shizuku? A cold-hearted girl and super-troublemaker romance with a fresh new perspective

This anime is new as well and the female protag here is almost the same as the girl protag in Sukitte Iinayo. I love this one too. There is also a love triangle here but at the moment I cant tell if its going to last long because this is still an on-going series. You should check this one out too.

Roar and Liv {Under The Never Sky} by Veronica Ross

2012-11-04T13:36:00.002+11:00

Before Perry and Aria, there was Roar and Liv.

After a childhood spent wandering the borderlands, Roar finally feels like he has a home with the Tides. His best friend Perry is like a brother to him, and Perry's sister, Liv, is the love of his life. But Perry and Liv's unpredictable older brother, Vale, is the Blood Lord of the Tides, and he has never looked kindly on Roar and Liv's union. Normally, Roar couldn't care less about Vale's opinion. But with food running low and conditions worsening every day, Vale's leadership is more vital—and more brutal—than ever. Desperate to protect his tribe, Vale makes a decision that will shatter the life Roar knew and change the fate of the Tides forever.

Set in the harsh but often beautiful world of Veronica Rossi's "unforgettable" Under the Never Sky (Examiner.com), this captivating prequel novella stands on its own for new readers and offers series fans a fascinating look into the character of Roar. Poignant and powerful, Roar and Liv is a love story that will "capture your imagination and your heart." (Justine on Under the Never Sky)

Published October 30th 2012 by Harper Collins

OK, I will make this review short and sweet. It's official, I am madly inlove with Roar right now. *fangirlscream* OMG! I think I just betrayed Perry, oh hell! It's Roar's point of view anyway and the spotlight is on him. So yes my lovely readers, this is a must-read short novella, fans of Under The Never Sky and more importantly, Roar's mustn't miss this.

This book will take you back from before there is Aria and Perry. Ofcourse there is Brooke and Perry first. I know, I know, I felt a pang of jealousy there but do not fear, you know what happened in the first book anyway right?! So moving on, there is also Liv and Roar. And as we all know, that Liv is Roar's love-of-his-life girl. Although this book is short, it's rich of swoon-worthy moments that swept me off my feet. The writing style is impeccable and just beautiful. And also, I got a glimpse of the first 2 chapters of the Through The Ever Night.. and I am dying to read more!

Valkyrie Rising by Ingrid Paulson

2012-11-03T18:02:00.000+11:00

Nothing ever happens in Norway. But at least Ellie knows what to expect when she visits her grandmother: a tranquil fishing village and long, slow summer days. And maybe she’ll finally get out from under the shadow of her way-too-perfect big brother, Graham, while she’s there.

What Ellie doesn’t anticipate is Graham’s infuriating best friend, Tuck, tagging along for the trip. Nor did she imagine boys going missing amid rumors of impossible kidnappings. Least of all does she expect something powerful and ancient to awaken in her and that strange whispers would urge Ellie to claim her place among mythological warriors. Instead of peace and quiet, there’s suddenly a lot for a girl from L.A. to handle on a summer sojourn in Norway! And when Graham vanishes, it’s up to Ellie—and the ever-sarcastic, if undeniably alluring Tuck—to uncover the truth about all the disappearances and thwart the nefarious plan behind them.

Deadly legends, hidden identities, and tentative romance swirl together in one girl’s unexpectedly-epic coming of age.

Published October 9th 2012 by HarperTeen

This book started really good, I mean really good. Valkyrie rising is written in first-person, Ellie, our heroine, was likeable. Surprisingly, that impression didn't last long, I'm afraid. Loved the first few chapters, but as the story progress, oh well. I thought it would have been really good had it changed its course. Let me explain. Ellie is a Valkyrie, it's in her blood. But she didn't have any idea or whatsoever about this, until she went to Norway with her big brother and his best friend Tucker Halloway to visit her grandmother who is a Valkyrie herself. That's when things went meh for me. The abrupt turns of the story didn't work out for me. Her attitude towards a decent boy she met. Or this situation where one minute her grandmother were hiding stuff from her, the next thing, she was telling Ellie to kick some asses because Ellie apparently has a power within her of a true Valkyrie. So not believable. Maybe if the plot were delivered differently, I would have bought it.

OK, it wasn't horrible but just not what I was expecting when I began reading it. It had its moments. Tucker Halloway is the only thing that had me going. Apparently, Ellie is better when Tuck is around. Tuck is the only character I love in this book, he's swoon-worthy I'm telling you. I was also intrigued where their friendship would truly take them, I loved the bickerings and their almost-kissing intimate scenes. But that's all. The idea was really something I would really get excited about, a story inspired by Norse mythology with a modern day and romance twist. But reading a book with a lead character's point of view whom I am starting to dislike the longer I read is not that much fun at all, but I kept going anyway, only for Tuck. To be more honest, I am not that satisfied with the quotes that I have, but these will do. *sighs*

“Without people like me for contrast, no one would recognize how perfect you are.”

Overall, it was an okay read for me, but if ever there is going to be a sequel, I wont be reading it I guess. Anyway, please don't take my words for it. This is merely my thoughts and opinion. You might ended up liking or even loving this book, It's just not my cup of tea. I've actually read some reviews via Goodreads and most readers enjoyed it, especially those who loves myth-based romance stories..

“Danger is hot. A daring rescue is even hotter.”
Only Tuck would turn this into a joke.

It can be hard to find people you can trust, and when you do, you hold on to them, imperfections and all.

In a small town, newcomers are endlessly fascinating.

The Assassin's Curse by Cassandra Clarke

2012-11-01T01:22:00.001+11:00

Ananna of the Tanarau abandons ship when her parents try to marry her off to an allying pirate clan: she wants to captain her own boat, not serve as second-in-command to her handsome yet clueless fiance. But her escape has dire consequences when she learns the scorned clan has sent an assassin after her.

And when the assassin, Naji, finally catches up with her, things get even worse. Ananna inadvertently triggers a nasty curse — with a life-altering result. Now Ananna and Naji are forced to become uneasy allies as they work together to break the curse and return their lives back to normal. Or at least as normal as the lives of a pirate and an assassin can be.

Published October 2nd 2012 by Strange Chemistry

Pirate's tactics you oughta know before we proceed:

Sometimes you got to trust the one one person you don't want to trust.
Avoid lying whenever possible.
Know how to sneak.
Escaping's always easy. Staying escaped is the hard part.
Never trust beautiful people...

Let me start with "I'm ashamed that my expectation for this book was very low, after all I'm not so much into pirates." But hey, what do you know? I enjoyed this book so much that I didn't want it to end. Next time, I will try my very best not to judge a book unless I've truly read and comprehend it.

You don't realize how much you miss something till it comes back to you, and then you wonder how you went so long without it.

One thing that stand out more is the author's writing style . It's beautiful and engrossing, unique and humorous. I couldn't get enough of her words. I just devoured every single page. So this book deals with a young pirate girl, who is suppose to marry a beautiful young man from another pirate clan. But she wanted to captain her own ship, to make it short, she ran away.. But her life didn't bode her well away from the ocean. Naji showed up and turned her life upside-down... more like chaos..

"They're hired," I said. "They know blood magic." I closed my eyes. "They're the only kind of death."

Our girl Ananna is a 17-year old girl who is very unusual and an entertaining lead character, she's witty and jaunty at most part, which sometimes might give you an impression that the voice is younger than her age. But I didnt mind this at all, infact it suited her well, because this sexy assassin or "ajadorr'a" Naji (goes fangirling scream) is the total opposite of her, gloomy and a man of no word. Naji is one of those fascinating male character, I just couldnt get enough of him. He is sexy with that scar on his face, doing his blood magic, wearing his sexy black ninja thing, and blends himself in the shadow... that's him, DARK and ALLURING.

Their paths will cross, neither knowing who is who and an impossible curse will get them stuck with each other until they find the cure to undo this impossible curse... But will they?

And he started to dissolve, turning into shadows like the ones I'd seen the first time he attacked me. Just like in the stories.

Dark fantasy with an innovative fairy talish plot, this book is definitely one of my favorite reads this year. That ending is also a TORTURE! I need the second book like right now!!!!

Quotes from The Assassin's Curse:

I opened my eyes. Naji was looking at me with little lines creasing the strip of his face, his own eyes bright and sparkling.

  "Are you laughing at me?"

  "Never."

  I lunged at him with an imaginary sword, and this time he really did laugh, all throaty and raspy, and I wondered what I could do to get him to laugh more.

Cockiness is useful to fake on occasion, but it'll only get you killed if you believe it.

Papa told me once that you should never let a door slam shut on you. "Even if you can't quite figure out how to work it in the moment," he'd said. He wasn't never one to miss an opportunity, and I am nothing if not my father's daughter. Even if the bastard did want to marry me off.

The Hallowed Ones by Laura Bickle

2012-10-28T21:40:00.000+11:00

Katie is on the verge of her Rumspringa, the time in Amish life when teenagers can get a taste of the real world. But the real world comes to her in this dystopian tale with a philosophical bent. Rumors of massive unrest on the “Outside” abound. Something murderous is out there. Amish elders make a rule: No one goes outside, and no outsiders come in. But when Katie finds a gravely injured young man, she can’t leave him to die. She smuggles him into her family’s barn—at what cost to her community? The suspense of this vividly told, truly horrific thriller will keep the pages turning

Published September 25th 2012 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

I was a hypocrite. When the roof came down, it was going to fall on me first.

Man, I am just a sucker for a great heroine. And seriously, Amish and the freaking scary vampires? A premise I just couldn't pass up. I've been quietly anticipating this book for what seemed like forever and I am so glad it did not disappoint, as a matter of fact, it has taken me completely by surprise. It's that good!

My favorite quote:

“You have done well, Katie,” Frau Gerlach said. “You would make a fine midwife someday, if you ever wished to learn.”
I cast my eyes down, exhausted and shy and afraid and proud all at once. “All I have managed so far is to be a midwife to the puppies.”
She reached out to pat my cheek with a bloody hand. “God smiles on those who quietly do his dirty work, my girl.”

This book has "Amish" written all over it. Some of you might be wary reading this book because religion and beliefs are just a tricky topic, not everyone enjoys this. But if you are open to things like this and you want a book to surprise you. and brave it then you will surely surely enjoy this book. I myself don't know much about Amish, I'm a little foreign about it, but it was so nice to explore their world through this book and our protagonist entertained me so much. She rocks. I mean she just kicked Elijah's butt, no problem. *chuckles*

Like I said, this book will hook you with an amazing premise and well-defined characters, I could picture them up easily. The Hallowed ones is a delightfully bone-chilling story that will surely keep you on the edge of your seat and turn all the lights on. An outbreak is spreading fast outside and the infected becomes vampires. The sacred places are only the safest place in the world, and that includes Katie's place with her people. But to keep them safe, there is a rule: No one goes out of the gate, and no one must invite them in.

But there are vampires among the Amish....

Something made a scraping sound above me.
Swallowing hard, I looked up.
Behind the fluorescent light, I could make out shadows. I shaded my eyes from the weak light with my hand. I was able to distinguish shapes—shapes of people. They were suspended upside down from the ceiling, curled up in balls or dangling with limbs dragging in spider webs of silk that drizzled down in the darkness, holding the forms there in an ethereal embrace.

I have to stop here and see for yourself how good this book is. I loved Katie, I loved reading her POV, she isn't your typical Amish girl though, she's flawed, she has a rebellious spirit, she questions before she obeys. The other side of her is struggling between submitting and defying rules.. She may not be doing the Buffy-vampire-slaying thing but she's definitely a clever, undaunted and a kindhearted girl that she grew on me. The rest of the supporting characters were just believable. God, I hate Elijah, that freaking asshole! Oh, yeah, there's romance here too by the way, and it was just enough without overpowering the greatness of the story. The ending was really good, open ended, so you can just decide where the story should go, sky is the limit. Though I kind of wish that it has a sequel, on the other hand sometimes a good book like this should just be left alone as it is.

For me, that was love. Tangible. Love was what was in front of me, not a distant fantasy.

I recommend this book to those who want something refreshing, riveting, diverting and challenging. I loved it and hope you will too! x

I think I’d rather be branded than submit to some of the things that you have to.” He said this without spite, just a soft statement of fact. “I’m not strong enough to do that.”

‘The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few.’”

There was a difference, I had decided, between knowing and believing. And I wanted both.

I wanted the syrupy taste of this small rebellion. And this stupid machine was denying that bit of freedom to me . . . just like everyone else.

“That’s just . . . the first time I’ve heard a man say he loved a woman for her brilliance.” I was used to hearing about men who loved women for their eyes, for their smiles, for their ability to work hard, for their gentleness and kindness. Not for their brilliance.
“Yeah, well. Women are different out there.” He let out a snort of derisive laughter.
“I don’t mean to sound insensitive about your dating life.” I lifted my chin in defiance. “But I want to know more about ‘out there.’ Why, with all those brilliant people, is there no more ‘out there’?”
He flinched. I felt a momentary sting of satisfaction at taking him down a peg. We Amish did not suffer pride well.

YA/New Adult Books Turned Movie Part 1

2012-10-27T19:38:00.003+11:00

Hey guys, so for today, I'd like to share with you some of the books that will turning into a movie soon. All of these aren't out yet but some would be very soon. I am most excited for The Hands of Forest and Teeth and The Scorpio Races. Should be good! Let's just all pray that Hollywood or movie people don't mess with the plot and characters like they did with some. Also Maggie Stiefvater is on a roll, 3 of her books so far are hitting the big screen in the near future.

13 Reasons Why by Jay Asher
Status: in development
Year: 2013
Was hoping it wasn't Selena Gomez...

The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater
Status: in development
Year: 2015

This book is coming to life *dreamy sighs*, and I really do hope they dont mess it up!

Shadow and Bone by Leigh Berdugo
Status: in development
Year: ????

Omg! I am so excited as hell! djfslkdfjdkfjdshgsjf

The Immortal Rules (Blood Of Eden series#1) by Julie Kagawa
Status: in development
Year: 2014 Movie Rights: Palomar Pictures

Blood Red Road by Moira Young
Status: in development
Year: ????
Movie Rights: Ridley Scott's production company

Beautiful Disaster by Jamie Mcguire
Status: in development
Year: ???? Movie Rights: Warner Bros

Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl
Status: post-production
Year: 2013
Movie Rights: Warner Bros and Alcon Entertainment
Watch the movie trailer here: Beautiful Creatures Official Movie Trailer

Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
Status: post-production
Year: 2013

The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan
Status: pre-production
Year: 2013

I can't wait for this gah!

Legend by Marie Lu
Status: pre-production
Year: 2013

Unwind by Neal Shusterman
Status: in development
Year: ????

Paranormalcy by Kiersten White
Status: in development
Year: 2013

The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater
Status: in development
Year: ????

Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
Status: unknown
Year: ????
Movie Rights: Unique Feautures

You go girl!

Halloween Giveaway! Close

2012-10-24T14:00:00.000+11:00

Hey guys, Halloween is so close now, one of my favorite time of the year! Have you decided what to wear for a costume party? Well, I have no idea what to wear yet, suggestions are appreciated! Anyway, enough beating around the bush! I am feeling generous right now and because I have been quite lucky to find such an amazing books to read lately, now I want to share it with you! I thought these would be great for your November reading.

To join the contest, just pick the two books you would like to win and we will pick one lucky winner. So good luck you guys, and drop me a line below <3! Also please read the terms and conditions.

Please choose 2 books below:

The Hallowed ones Slated The Darkness Before Dawn Angelfall

Terms and conditions:
Must be my blog follower, GFC or NetworkedBlog follower. Not yet my follower? Well then, go ahead and follow me now. <3
Must be age 13 and up.
Choose 2 books only.
This contest is free of charge.
This contest is International. Make sure that you check your country here.
Winner will be emailed and must reply 24 hours, otherwise we will choose another contestant.
Contest ends November 9.

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The Evolution of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

2012-10-20T20:39:00.002+11:00

Mara Dyer once believed she could run from her past.

She can’t.

She used to think her problems were all in her head.

They aren’t.

She couldn’t imagine that after everything she’s been through, the boy she loves would still be keeping secrets.

She’s wrong.

In this gripping sequel to The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer, the truth evolves and choices prove deadly. What will become of Mara Dyer next?

Find this book on Goodreads
Series: Mara Dyer #2
Expected publication: October 23rd 2012 by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

You will always have a choice.

Hell yeah! A mind-blowing sequel with an awesome blend of paranormal, romance and real world. Damn, I couldn't put this book down. Eerily beautiful, captivating and disturbing at the same time, and oh! my goodness, the overwhelming mystery was frustrating but in a really really good way. Fans of The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer shouldn't miss this book! And also, that cover is gorgeous.

You will love him to ruins

The Evolution of Mara Dyer is no doubt a heavily character-driven story. I loved reading Mara's POV. Mara whom people thinks shes loosing it and seeings things that aren't there, clearly delusional, is our protagonist has the power to kill people with her mind. And to top off the craziness, someone from her terrifying past has come back to haunt her. And this is driving her to the edge. Her life is being manipulated by someone whom she thought was already dead. Nobody believes her though even her own family, but Noah Shaw. She needs Noah more than anything. Because like Mara, he also has a power - can see things and heal himself quicker than any normal human being. They need each other to figure out what is happening to them and to Mara's dark past. But will Noah fulfill his promise to protect Mara from harm?

This was the boy I loved. A little bit messy. A little bit ruined. A beautiful disaster.Just like me.

A gripping story with shocking twists. The author has kept the chilling suspense taut and it was all I could do not to die from a heart attack. The foreboding atmosphere sucked me in big time. I just loved it! The way Michelle Hodkins told the story was amazing, some scenes really did give me the creeps.

“Show me what is in the other,” he said kindly.
I obeyed him. Uncurled my fingers to reveal what was
inside.

It was Noah’s heart.

And I seriously want more of this series, of Mara, I want more hotness of Noah Shaw! The freaking ending left a hole in my heart. I want the third book NOW! I am pretty sure it'll be out next year, I gotta stay alive till then!

Quotes:

The thing about happiness, though, is that it never lasts.

“Misery’s no fun if you keep it to yourself.”

“Sometimes the biggest secrets you can only tell a stranger.”

Boys are stupid and girls are trouble.

“There is no truth,” Stephanie said mysteriously. “Only perspectives. Philosophy 101,” she said with a wink.

Outpost (Razorland #2) by Ann Aguirre

2012-10-14T22:50:00.003+11:00

Deuce’s whole world has changed. Down below, she was considered an adult. Now, topside in a town called Salvation, she’s a brat in need of training in the eyes of the townsfolk. She doesn’t fit in with the other girls: Deuce only knows how to fight.

To make matters worse, her Hunter partner, Fade, keeps Deuce at a distance. Her feelings for Fade haven’t changed, but he seems not to want her around anymore. Confused and lonely, she starts looking for a way out.

Deuce signs up to serve in the summer patrols—those who make sure the planters can work the fields without danger. It should be routine, but things have been changing on the surface, just as they did below ground. The Freaks have grown smarter. They’re watching. Waiting. Planning. The monsters don’t intend to let Salvation survive, and it may take a girl like Deuce to turn back the tide.

Published September 4th 2012 by Feiwel & Friends

My choice would always be Fade.

Helluva book! Outpost picks up right where Enclave left off. The flow of the story was so smooth. I enjoyed Enclave so much that my expectation for this sequel was, of course, immensely high. And boy were they met and actually EXCEEDED. Outpost is utterly engrossing in so many ways, it was hard to put it down. I devoured this book fast and I loved every minute of it! IF you haven't read the first book yet, well..*glares* seriously? *shakes head* Go ahead and read it now,.

The broken ones didn’t stop hurting people; they fed on pain.

The world-building was just amazing, more defined and the character development was surprisingly impressive, Deuce has profoundly changed while living in Salvation and so is the other characters such as Fade and Stalker. There will be deaths and new characters introduced as well as the controversial love triangle! While other thinks it wasnt a good idea for Stalker to become a "good guy", for me, sometimes people change, from bad to good. BUT. for Stalker to be Deuce's love interest is a no no for me. Why? It's simple. Deuce and Fade are meant for each other. Period.

I would follow him until the world stopped or until I found him. I believed love hadn’t weakened me or left me soft; instead it made me powerful, determined beyond all belief.

This series is a must-read, especially this sequel. It's very emotional for me yet it's also intense and action-packed. I've invested so much on Deuce, and for me she is one of the most realistic, unforgettable and a kickass heroine out there. Loved reading her beautiful voice. Loved eveything about this book. Kudos to Ann Aguirre!

"A few people said it was punishment from heaven.” Those people needed a boot in the face. “I’m sorry.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Happy naming day, Deuce.”A smile built inside me. But before I could offer a reply, he went on, “Forget me. Stop staring at me with those begging eyes. I can’t be what you need now.”And then he went away, all ice and air, and left me dying in the silence.

Cover Reveal! FRACTURED (Slated #2) by Teri Terry

2012-10-13T19:02:00.001+11:00

Find this book on Goodreads

The Uk cover for the sequel of my much loved book Slated (read my REVIEW of SLATED) is already out and I'm loving it! There's no synops yet but the book will be published on May 2013 gah! Gotta stay alive till then!

If you haven't read the first book SLATED, then you should read it! Here's some info:

Find this book on Goodreads

Kyla’s memory has been erased,
her personality wiped blank,
her memories lost for ever.

She’s been Slated.

The government claims she was a terrorist, and that they are giving her a second chance - as long as she plays by their rules. But echoes of the past whisper in Kyla’s mind. Someone is lying to her, and nothing is as it seems. Who can she trust in her search for the truth?

So guys, what do you think of the cover? <3

The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater

2012-09-30T13:24:00.000+10:00

It happens at the start of every November: the Scorpio Races. Riders attempt to keep hold of their water horses long enough to make it to the finish line. Some riders live. Others die.

At age nineteen, Sean Kendrick is the returning champion. He is a young man of few words, and if he has any fears, he keeps them buried deep, where no one else can see them.

Puck Connolly is different. She never meant to ride in the Scorpio Races. But fate hasn’t given her much of a chance. So she enters the competition — the first girl ever to do so. She is in no way prepared for what is going to happen.

The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater
Published October 18th 2011 by Scholastic Press

Guys, you'd be mad not to read this book or rather to pass up a book like this. This book is... utterly MAGICAL, inspiring, life-changing and oh-so beautiful in every way I swear I still am all teary while writing this review. I cant find the perfect words to best describe what I am feeling right now, my heart is swelling with emotions. I didn't want it to end. It's not often a book like this comes your way that will totally blow your mind. EPIC! I know this review will never ever do this book justice. So excuse me while I ramble on and on about this book.

The very first line:

It is the first day of November and so, today, someone will die.

TO be honest, I already knew Maggie Stiefvater from her series The Wolves of Mercy Falls (Shiver). But I never had the chance to read it I don't even have the copy of that but after reading this book, I must have all of this woman's right in my bookshelf. I want her beautiful and enchanting words surround me. I want to feel like this all the time.. I was enraptured by her writing, it's not all the time you encounter a writing like her, like it's dusted with fairydust and right when you open the book you'll be under-spell and you will be lost in the story straight away and it will feel like you're there in Thisby and the Scorpio sea.. It felt so real I could hear the waves, the noise of the hooves and bells, and smell the briny ocean breeze. *sighs* All of a sudden I dream of having a house in an island far away from everything with a cute pony or rather a horse for a pet and a loner mysterious boy named Sean by my side.....

And the next thing you'll know, you're in deep shit.

Because it'll be a little too late...... to stop yourself from reading it. (So I suggest you guys read it on your day off lol)

I have never enjoyed a book as much as I enjoyed The Scorpio Races. Ms Maggie takes us to a world where myth comes to life, INCREDIBLY crafted into something remarkable and original. These well-defined main characters, Sean Kendrick and Kate "Puck" Connolly are amazing. Why? Because Puck is the most enjoyable and loveable protagonist ever. Sean because he's character is so intriguing and mysterious that I want more of him. Also the supporting characters were just as good. Oh and lets not forget Corr, the water horse or the "capall uisce" The mythical and magical creatures that rise out of the ocean...

These are not ordinary horses. Drape them with charms, hide them from the sea, but today, on the beach: Do not turn your back. Some of the horses have lathered. Froth drips down their lips and chests, looking like sea foam, hiding the teeth that will tear into men later.

They are beautiful and deadly, loving us and hating us.

Perfect plot twist. I was wondering how is the author going to pull it off and I was dying with anticipation, it almost killed me.
Rich setting, and beautiful prose. Everything about this book is just perfect and beauty, and that ending, God. It's just sooo good that when I finished it I almost stand and give her my applause. I want to tell you more but you just have to read this! I fell in love with The Scorpio Races and I really do hope that you will too. I recommend this to everyone!

People say my brothers would be lost without me, but really, I’d be lost without them. - Puck

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

All of a sudden she smells overwhelmingly of the sea. Not of the beach, which is what most people think is the odor of the sea. Not of seaweed, or of salt, but of your head beneath the surface, breathing water, lungs full of the ocean. The iron has no effect as we pelt toward the water.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I’d been very annoyed, because she’d promised me one of Palsson’s cinnamon twists, which sold out very quickly. I’m a bit ashamed to recall that I told Brian that if he died and kept me from my cinnamon twist, I’d spit on his grave. I don’t know if he remembers it at all, since he’d seemed very focused on breathing through a cup made of his hands. I hope he doesn’t, because my character’s improved a lot since then. Nowadays I would’ve onlythought the spitting part instead of saying it to his face.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Neatness makes me feel like I have to be on my best behavior. Clutter is my natural habitat.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Boys,” she says, “just aren’t very good at being afraid.”

You guys should also read the Author's Note at the end because it is really really interesting how this book was made and her inspiration from writing it.

Book Cover Finds

2012-09-27T19:30:00.001+10:00

So again, I've found some beautiful and interesting photos that I would definitely love to see on books I'm going to read in the future. Somehow book covers adds more depth in your imagination that makes the character more alive. Sometimes when the book cover fails to represent what's inside the contents, it is disconnecting. So I thought these images has a potential to be a book covers. Go check it out. x
* The photos below are not mine.

1. Just some touch ups and color changing and this photo will be perfect for a fantasy or para books.

2. This girl in black thingy that covers her face I think would be good for a vampire stories, yes? Something simple yet striking. Not showing fangs and blood for a vampire book cover makes me more of curious what's inside the book.

3. Ahhh, loving that hair and that dress, plus the leaves that surrounds her is simply stunning.

4. First time I seen this cover with those creepy ink scratch on her back gave me the chills.

5. Thought this girl with that white thingy in her whole body is beautiful.

6. Ok so this is one of my favorite in all of these images, because this couple looks perfect and that guy *sighs* with that wings? Great for angel/romance books! The girl looks like Emma Watson though, or that is her, either way, this photo is gorgeous.

So what do you think guys? Do you ever see one of these photos to be in your books to-read? Have a great day you all. <3 xox

Rebel Heart by Moira Young

2012-09-25T20:13:00.001+10:00

It seemed so simple: Defeat the Tonton, rescue her kidnapped brother, Lugh, and then order would be restored to Saba’s world. Simplicity, however, has proved to be elusive. Now, Saba and her family travel west, headed for a better life and a longed-for reunion with Jack. But the fight for Lugh’s freedom has unleashed a new power in the dust lands, and a formidable new enemy is on the rise.

What is the truth about Jack? And how far will Saba go to get what she wants? In this much-anticipated follow-up to the riveting Blood Red Road, a fierce heroine finds herself at the crossroads of danger and destiny, betrayal and passion.

Rebel Heart by Moira Young
Series: Dust Lands #2
Expected publication: October 30th 2012 by Margaret K. McElderry

My heart breaks. I hear it break. I feel it.

At first, I was scared to read Rebel Heart, after reading some reviews my excitement for this sequel toned down a notch or two. But I really loved the first book Blood Red Road because of the protagonist Saba, Jack and the world-building that my curiosity got the better of me.

he’s seen enough to know that you can’t kill all the badness in the world. You cut it down in front of you only to find that it's standing right behind you.

Moira Young once again captured my interest in this gritty, cruel world she created. The first book was action-packed, but this one is totally different from its predecessor, in a good way. I know it may sounds boring but it wasnt, infact I enjoyed it so much. This book evokes strongest feelings that it made the story and character hard to forget. Rebel Heart showed a different side of Saba. Her time fighting in the cage have earned her the title "Angel of Death" by the people. But after the perilous escape from Hopetown, Saba
is now being haunted by those poor souls she has killed. And that made her vulnerable and traumatized that she didnt even want to defend her self anymore even if it was needed. Also her relationship with her twin Luca is going downhill fast. And Saba is still holding on to Jack's promise that they will meet at the Big Water. Will he come to meet her again? Or did he have a change of heart?
.
So glad I read this! The author has continued to amaze me with her unique writing style. Shocking twists and turns and revelations along the way. I thought Saba made some hasty, stupid decisions but oh well so are we people. I was so frustrated with her that I was silently screaming inside, WHY?WHY?WHY?

He’ll banish the shadows. He’ll silence the whispers. An the wounds of my soul will heal.
I jest need Jack.
He’ll make everythin all right.

We like to think we’re in charge of our own lives, but we ain’t.

Overall, having said it was different from the first book I'd say that I enjoyed this as much. I couldnt put it down. Loved how it ended that it made me more want to read the third book. For those who love the first book, BLOOD RED ROAD, I suggest that you read this sequel.

Well, we all gotta die, he says. You jest gotta hope you die good.

The Lost Prince (The Iron Fey: Call of the Forgotten #1) by Julie Kagawa

2012-09-17T22:42:00.005+10:00

Don't look at Them. Never let Them know you can see Them.That is Ethan Chase's unbreakable rule. Until the fey he avoids at all costs—including his reputation—begin to disappear, and Ethan is attacked. Now he must change the rules to protect his family. To save a girl he never thought he'd dare to fall for.

Ethan thought he had protected himself from his older sister's world—the land of Faery. His previous time in the Iron Realm left him with nothing but fear and disgust for the world Meghan Chase has made her home, a land of myth and talking cats, of magic and seductive enemies. But when destiny comes for Ethan, there is no escape from a danger long, long forgotten.

The Lost Prince by Julie Kagawa
Series: The Iron Fey: The Call of the Forgotten #1

Expected publication: October 23rd 2012 by Harlequin Teen

Things sort of went to hell from there.

First of all, OMG! Ethan, I mean look at that cover... this man has sexy written all over him. Second, I am a proud Filipino and when these words Filipino and Kali (a Filipino martial art Ethan was taking) were mentioned in this book, I smiled with pleasure reading it.This book is also dedicated to her dear Guro for you guys who didnt know yet.

Moving on.. I loved Julie Kagawa's books, dont get me wrong and I swear this woman is a born storyteller- never ever miss reading her stories! But I thought this particular book didnt stand out much amongst her books (but that doesnt mean I didnt enjoy the story and I loved Ethan). Or maybe its just me, because I was still kind of longing for Puck that I always keep on expecting him to walk in the scenes, but ends up disappointed. Then there's Kierran, whom I reckon didnt have any character's depth at all. Plus Ethan's love interest was just not what I expected to be with him. I don't know why but she annoys me to the point that I just want her get eaten by some monster out in NeverNever. I knowwww, Im so mean but I just don't buy her. Anyway, it's only my opinion Im sure most of you will love their tandem.

I enjoyed reading Ethan's point of view, sexy and exhilarating, brooding and rough but a completely different person inside. Kind and funny and very caring. Poor Ethan, he's been through alot and that made me care for him more. And ofcourse, I dont think this spin-off would be complete without the great sidhe cat Grimalkin. How cute is he? And you know, I was nostalgic while reading this book, brings back memories of those days of Iron Fey series. I just wish I could read it for the first time again.....you know that feeling?

This is worse than killing. You stripped away everything that made him who he was, took something that he cant ever get back and left him... like this. To keep yourselves alive. I wont let you get away with that. - Ethan

Overall, I'd say that this is a good start for this series, and a book to watch out for. Iron Fey fans will enjoy this too, dark mysteries and romance to keep you engage throughout. So I guess it is safe to say that I really really liked it(scrolls up), and I cant wait for the sequel to come. I am a fan of Julie Kagawa and any books written by her will be surely read by me :). Oh and also I finally found myPuck somewhere in the story and though it was just a short one, but I was all giddy with excitement! I miss him already I wish Julie would bring him in in this series again.... *calls all the saints*

"My grandfather was a wise man."Guro went on, holding my gaze.
He told me not to put your trust in only your eyes. That to truly see, sometimes you had to put your faith in the invisible things. YOu had to believe what no one else was willing to.

ARC Giveaway: Dead Time by Anne Cassidy

2012-09-14T19:38:00.002+10:00

When Rose was twelve, her mother and stepfather went out for dinner and never came back. Now seventeen, she lives with her grandmother and goes to school in London. She’s always wondered about her stepbrother, Joshua, whom she only lived with briefly and who was also relocated after their parents’ disappearance. When Rose and Joshua meet again, they find they have much in common, including a desire to uncover the mystery surrounding their parents’ disappearance . . . and a mutual attraction to each other. But when Rose witnesses the murders of not one but two of her classmates, she must uncover who is behind these violent crimes. And when she and Joshua discover that a much larger conspiracy is underway, both of their lives will be in danger. From international bestseller Anne Cassidy, this first in a fastpaced and romantic new mystery series will keep readers guessing.

Dead Time by Anne Cassidy
Published June 1st 2012 by Bloomsbury Australia

Terms and condition:

Must be over 13 years of age.
Must be my follower here in this blog FICBOOKREVIEWS.
Australia & US only.
The cover is above is not the actual cover. Uncorrected proof copy.
Winner will be emailed and should reply within 24 hours.
Contest ends August 31.

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