Book Review: The Blazing Star

Title: The Blazing Star
Series: TBA
Author: Imani Josey
Publication Date: December 06, 2016
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon / Book Depository

Sixteen-year-old Portia White is used to being overlooked—after all, her twin sister Alex is a literal genius.

But when Portia holds an Egyptian scarab beetle during history class, she takes center stage in a way she never expected: she faints. Upon waking, she is stronger, faster, and braver than before. And when she accidentally touches the scarab again?

She wakes up in ancient Egypt—her sister and an unwitting freshman in tow.

Great.

Mysterious and beautiful, Egypt is more than they could have ever imagined from their days in the classroom. History comes alive as the three teens realize that getting back to the present will be the most difficult thing they’ve ever done. Stalked by vicious monsters called Scorpions, every step in the right direction means a step closer to danger.

As Portia and the girls discover that they’re linked to the past by more than just chance, they have to decide what it truly means to be yourself, to love your sister, and to find your way home.

MY THOUGHTS
Portia's used to being the twin that goes along with everything her sister does. Same clothes, same hairstyle, even agreeing to go to the same university with her once they graduate high school. But Portia wanted to be more than that. More than to be that twin who is behind the spotlight while the world looks at her sister. A class trip to a museum not only changed Portia's relationship with her sister, but it also took her back to the past. Ancient Egypt kind-of past.

I've studied bits of Ancient Egypt when I was in high school and I love how I understood (or remember) some terms that I didn't feel the need to Google them. I had the time of my life reading The Blazing Star because not only did this took me to Egypt's ancient times but it also packed some magic and humor between the pages.

This was gods and goddesses, myths and legends, and very old magic.

Aside from the quote above, the book has POC characters, female characters with different personalities and have their own strengths, a relationship between twin sisters that's going to be tested as the story goes on, a protagonist finding more for herself than being in the shadows of her twin, a prince who's nice and sweet (and adorable when he doesn't understand any "present/current terms/things"), and unexpected twists. This was also light on the romance department and I love it because it wasn't rushed. It was developed and I'm eager to see what's in store for it in the next book.

There was also a scene here where I teared up. It was when Portia finally told Alex, her twin, what she really felt and how she wanted to mean something for herself this time. I felt Portia's pain and I don't even have a twin or a sibling to relate this kind of emotion. Alex isn't bad though, she just wanted her and Portia to be together (and maybe until forever) but Portia wanted other things this time. This was honestly the one that really got me going because I've mentioned many times before that family relationships will always have the biggest impact on me whenever I read a book, despite me being a big sucker for romance.

I'm excited for the next book because that ending somehow left me wanting more, and not to mention that it was a bit of a cliffhanger. I also had no idea that this wasn't a stand-alone but I'm not complaining.

AND CAN WE JUST TAKE A MOMENT TO ADMIRE THE VERY BEAUTIFUL COVER? You all should know by now how covers are important to me because they are the ones that attract me first, the blurb comes second.

***ARC kindly provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

MY RATING

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Book Review: Saving Francesca

Title: Saving Francesca
Author: Melina Marchetta
Publication Date: March 31, 2003
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon / Book Depository

Francesca is stuck at St. Sebastian’s, a boys' school that pretends it's coed by giving the girls their own bathroom. Her only female companions are an ultra-feminist, a rumored slut, and an impossibly dorky accordion player. The boys are no better, from Thomas, who specializes in musical burping, to Will, the perpetually frowning, smug moron that Francesca can't seem to stop thinking about.

Then there's Francesca's mother, who always thinks she knows what's best for Francesca—until she is suddenly stricken with acute depression, leaving Francesca lost, alone, and without an inkling of who she really is. Simultaneously humorous, poignant, and impossible to put down, this is the story of a girl who must summon the strength to save her family, her social life and—hardest of all—herself.

MY THOUGHTS
Francesca Spinelli transferred from her all-girls' school, St. Stella's to St. Sebastian's, because her parents thought it would be convenient for her and her brother to be in the same school now that St. Sebastian is starting to accept female students. Unfortunately for her, the female classmates she had back at St. Stella's weren't the same group who transferred with her to St. Sebastian's. And not only is Francesca trying to adjust to her new life in a new school, she's also trying to find her own person. Things at home aren't looking good with her mom's depression and her dad not knowing what to do.

Melina Marchetta once again delivered a story that gripped my heart. I don't know how she does it but I hope she continues to do it in her upcoming books. I read The Piper's Son first when I should've read Saving Francesca instead. TPS took place years (...? Or maybe just a year. I haven't been keeping track on the EXACT date.) after SF and even if you could still read TPS without the need to read SF because the book could still stand on its own with its story, it's still a nice thing to read SF because it will give you a

Saving Francesca revolves around Francesca finding herself because all her life she has this "picture" of who she is courtesy of her mother and her friends from St. Stella.

I want to be an adjective again.
But I'm a noun. 
A nothing. A nobody. A no one.

I don't know how many times Marchetta's books have hit home (meaning have my feelings in knots). This one really had me because of Francesca's relationship with her mom. I had to send my mom a text message after I finished the book and told her I love her (I'm away from home, that's why). Depression is such an ugly and scary thing. I couldn't even begin to describe it but I've lived through it and I never want to back to that place. Her mom's well-being really tested their family's strength to hold on and I couldn't hold back my tears every time Frankie talks to her mom but her mom isn't the same as before. And it hurts to read when she had to argue with her dad and that time when she ran away.

The depression belongs to all of us. I think the family down the road whose mother was having a baby and they went around the neighborhood saying, "We're pregnant." I want to go around the neighborhood saying, "We're depressed." If my mum can't get out of bed in the morning, all of us feel the same. Her silence has become ours, and it's eating us alive.

I had to give it to Marchetta on how she tackled depression in this book. She clearly put it here that it's not something you get over overnight. It's not something you are prepared for, like Frankie's mom was in high spirits the other day and the next, she didn't have the energy to even get out of bed. Frankie, herself, was even fighting the feeling that she felt like is crawling inside her to take over.

Now on to the lighter side of the story: the friendship between Frankie, Siobhan, Tara, and Justine. 

I am always weak for friendships, especially female friendships. These girls didn't start out as friends and they're all so different from each other that it marvels you how they got along and formed this beautiful bond that will likely last a lifetime.

I think I'm a bit in love with these girls. They make me feel giddy. Like I haven't a care in the world. Like I'm fearless.
Like I'm used to be.

And I just have to add these three guys: Will Trombal, Thomas Mackee, and Jimmy Hailler. Bless them and their existence because they also play a big part in this book and I have come to love all of them.

This was honestly so heartwarming and bittersweet with a side of romantic and funny. Another great read from Melina Marchetta that is bound to land in my reread shelf.


MY RATING

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Book Review: The Piper's Son

Title: The Piper's Son
Author: Melina Marchetta
Publication Date: March 01, 2010
Genres: Young Adult, Contemporary
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon

The award-winning author of Finnikin of the Rock and Jellicoe Road pens a raw, compelling novel about a family’s hard-won healing on the other side of trauma.

Award-winning author Melina Marchetta reopens the story of the group of friends from her acclaimed novel Saving Francesca - but five years have passed, and now it’s Thomas Mackee who needs saving. After his favorite uncle was blown to bits on his way to work in a foreign city, Tom watched his family implode. He quit school and turned his back on his music and everyone that mattered, including the girl he can’t forget. Shooting for oblivion, he’s hit rock bottom, forced to live with his single, pregnant aunt, work at the Union pub with his former friends, and reckon with his grieving, alcoholic father. Tom’s in no shape to mend what’s broken. But what if no one else is either? An unflinching look at family, forgiveness, and the fierce inner workings of love and friendship, The Piper’s Son redefines what it means to go home again.

MY THOUGHTS
Marchetta delivered a very emotional story that tackled loss, grief, heartbreak, hope and love in The Piper's Son. We follow Tom's life after the death of his uncle and how it affected him and his family.

I read this before Saving Francesca and how I wish I could unread it so I can read SF first. I was kind of spoiled of some stuff here, no matter how little some are, and it was an unfortunate thing for me. Nevertheless, I still loved the story and there were a lot more going on with Tom and his family so my focus was on that.

Throughout the story I felt Tom's hurt and I actually understand him regarding his feelings over his "broken" family. It was heartbreaking to know how a tight-knit family like his crashed down when his uncle died and everyone is unsure of wanting something. I could even feel his aunt Georgie's grief and the things that she's been dealing with in her life.

What made me love The Piper's Son was Marchetta's take on family relationship, friendship and mental health. Though this can be said to her other books too. The way she writes these grip your heart and attention that it sucks you into the story. It also gives you a view of life because these events also happen in the real world where it's a present


MY RATING

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Series Review: Lumatere Chronicles

Series Title: Lumatere Chronicles
Author: Melina Marchetta
Books: 

• Finnikin Of the Rock
• Froi Of the Exiles
• Quintana Of Charyn

Publication Dates: 

• Book #1: September 29, 2008
• Book #2: October 3, 2011
• Book #3: September 26, 2012

Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon (book 1)

Finnikin of the Rock and his guardian, Sir Topher, have not been home to their beloved Lumatere for ten years. Not since the dark days when the royal family was murdered and the kingdom put under a terrible curse. But then Finnikin is summoned to meet Evanjalin, a young woman with an incredible claim: the heir to the throne of Lumatere, Prince Balthazar, is alive.

Evanjalin is determined to return home and she is the only one who can lead them to the heir. As they journey together, Finnikin is affected by her arrogance . . . and her hope. He begins to believe he will see his childhood friend, Prince Balthazar, again. And that their cursed people will be able to enter Lumatere and be reunited with those trapped inside. He even believes he will find his imprisoned father.

But Evanjalin is not what she seems. And the truth will test not only Finnikin's faith in her . . . but in himself.

MY THOUGHTS
I flew through the Lumatere Chronicles and it was an adventurous reading experience. This will be a short review of the series and each book. I only put the first book's description since it's how this series all started.

Finnikin Of the Rock: Finnikin and Evanjalin's bickering was one of the highlights in this book and it gave me a sense of humor in the midst of the angst and pain the characters are in... or just the story in general. Note at the description that the royal family was murdered and kingdom isn't in good condition and they're on the search for the lost heir so you can definitely tell how much the characters are hurting every time they recall the good times and how everything fell apart. But when the secrets were out, I knew this book was gonna be a favorite of mine. I love how it surprised me and that I really didn't expect anything. I had this gut feeling, but it wasn't it. And Evanjalin is one of my instant favorite characters.

Froi Of the Exiles: Book two was just as shocking as the first one and there were more events that took place and more characters are introduced. Froi grew on me in this book and I'm glad Marchetta didn't brush the thing he did in the first book under the rug. As for the other characters, Quintana was one of the characters introduced and like Evanjalin, she became one of my favorites. My heart broke for this girl and the only thing I could think of while flipping the pages was that I want to protect her and cherish her and tell her that she deserves to be loved and treated with respect. Another character was Phaedra and I can't stress enough how I admire her. The way she stands for others, be it her people or not, is something I definitely salute her of.

Quintana Of Charyn: A great book to wrap the series. The last book was no different than the first two when it comes to excitement, surprises, angst and smiles. There were so many things going on and how the characters were clashing here and there, but those what made this very entertaining to read.

Overall: Lumatere Chronicles is one of the well-plotted stories I've read and it's definitely reread-worthy. Enough to make you smile, laugh and get your heart broken. I also want to say how much I love Marchetta for writing her female characters with defining strengths and personalities.

The ring's a promise of peace and I'm greedy with hope. It's a song that we sing in a tongue that we share. And though you say it's a gift from a king to a king, I say it's a sign from a queen to a queen.

MY RATING 

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Book Review: Coast

Title: Coast
Series: Kick, Push, #2
Author: Jay McLean
Publication Date: June 07, 2016
Genres: New Adult, Contemporary
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon

One life-changing summer.
One boy.
The boy.
The boy who offered me safe touches and heart-stopping smiles - smiles he shared with his son.
We filled our days with porch-step kisses,
filled our ears with laughter,
filled our hearts with love.
Deep, soul-aching, desperate love.

But love is misleading.
It's an invisible, fleeting moment.
Somewhere between false adoration and pure hatred comes an emotion, a vulnerable need, a single desire.
It lives within the ones who miss it, who crave it,
who know better than to expect it.
Love is relentless.
Even when that love turns to hate, turns to loathing,
turns to pain.

Love should heal you.
But it can also break you.
Believe me, I know...
Because I'm Becca Owens - a broken girl...
...And he's Josh Warden - the boy who broke me.

MY THOUGHTS
Coast is the sequel of Kick, Push, book three of Jay McLean's The Road Trilogy--though I'm not sure if this is the last book.

I cried when I read Kick, Push and to think, I was still at the prologue when the waterworks started and all throughout the book I felt as if Jay McLean wants me drowning in the sea of my emotions. I didn't cry as hard when I read this one but I did have my teary-eyed moments. I don't want to get into detail because I might spoil and where's the fun (and hurt) in that? All I can say is that Coast still tugged my heartstrings like how Kick, Push did but this time, I'm glad that my heart wasn't feeling all too heavy most of the time.

What if you were the land, and I was the sea? What if the coast we'd been searching for was us all along... living and existing together?

Becca and Josh grew as characters in this book where they pursue their dreams and made sure they got something planned for the future. I'm proud of Becca for going strong because she never had an easy past and that past affected her current state. Her not giving up and showing determination is something to look up to and I can really connect to her love for photography. Josh, on the other hand, is still a great dad despite how busy he is with his career. I'm also glad he can control his temper now although he and Becca still got this jealousy thing in them but it didn't really take me away from them because there were times when their jealousy was funny to read.

And Tommy... I LOVE THIS LITTLE BOY SO MUCH. He's like this ray of sunshine that brings light to the people around him, especially Becca's. Gosh the effect he has on Becca is the reason why I can't help but cry every time he makes her smile/cry from happiness. I love his scenes, I love how he loves Becca (and of course, his dad...), I love many things about this little kid and I'm so happy he played a big part in the lives of of these characters. There are those kids in books where they're just "there" but I gotta give it to the author for not sidelining Tommy. He's such a sweet kid.

I've also come to love the many minor characters who have helped and supported Becca and Josh to go forward. Though I kind of miss Blake and Chloe but all's good and I'm happy where they are now. There's also Josh's friends who were really amusing whenever they tease him.

Overall, Coast was a book that was honestly satisfying to read since Kick, Push broke my heart. This one STILL did broke my heart but I love how our main characters were moving on with their lives to a better future. This was bittersweet and somehow tragic, but it made me appreciate the characters celebrating life despite the bumps along the way.

MY RATING

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Book Review: Wasted Words

Title: Wasted Words
Author: Staci Hart
Publication Date: May 19, 2016
Genres: New Adult, Contemporary
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon

Some universal truths refuse to be ignored.

Peanut butter and jelly are a match made in heaven. Spaghetti and meatballs are best friends forever. And guys like Tyler Knight don’t go for girls like Cam Emerson.

She knew from the second she met him that he didn’t belong on her bookshelf, the six-foot-six ex-tight end with a face so all-American, it could have sold apple pie. So she shelved him next to the supermodels and rock stars and took her place on her own shelf — the one with the flannel-clad, pasty-faced comic book nerds. Most of her boyfriends have existed between the pages of books, but rather than worrying over her own lacking love life, she puts all her energy into playing Cupid, using her job at the book bar, Wasted Words, as her stomping ground.

Tyler Knight always looks on the bright side. His career-ending injury turned into a job as a sports agent. A horrible breakup led him to Cam, his quirky, smart roommate who is far more beautiful than she realizes. She’s made it perfectly clear she’s not interested in him — not like that at least — but if she ever changes her mind, he won’t hesitate. Because he doesn’t see the lines she’s drawn between them, as much as she insists that they’re there. Deep down he knows that despite their differences, they’re a match well made.

MY THOUGHTS
Wasted Words is the typical "girl is a nerd, guy is a hot stud, and they fall in love" trope. Although I don't mind  because every protagonist has their own strengths and weaknesses, this was just a let down for me--and it's not even about the classic trope in romance books.

Cam is a strong girl who's passionate about her work and comic books and wants to see people happy BUT her tendency to make two people fall in love with each other according to her was upsetting and frustrating to read. She was just pulling the matchmaking card here and there and it was making me sad that she's hurting other people's feelings because things weren't going according to her plan (e.g. Martin.. poor guy). Tyler was knocking some sense into her but it took her a while... she was that hard to crack and stop. She did share her reason why she was doing this but I just find it lame because it's not your business to step in someone's love life just because yours did a wrong turn. I'm just upset and sad because she's adorable whenever she's not doing any of that stuff.

Tyler's friend was also annoying... and I don't even have the heart to remember his name and I wish Tyler did too because it was obvious that the guy isn't the same good guy as before so I don't see the reason why he's still sticking around. Same dude also caused Tyler and Cam's relationship to bend and break--though both are neither faultless anyway.

I did enjoy the story when Tyler and Cam finally mend their relationship and admit to their faults. I also love Tyler's family, they're a great bunch to be around. Even though this book wasn't something I fully enjoyed, I still like how I enjoy how Tyler and Cam went from best friends to lovers--if I put aside the things that I didn't like. Also, Martin and Bayleigh made my reading time worth it.

MY RATING

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Book Review: The Problem With Forever

Title: The Problem With Forever
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Publication Date: June 01, 2016
Genres: Young Adult, Contemporary
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon

For some people, silence is a weapon. For Mallory "Mouse" Dodge, it's a shield. Growing up, she learned that the best way to survive was to say nothing. And even though it's been four years since her nightmare ended, she's beginning to worry that the fear that holds her back will last a lifetime.

Now, after years of homeschooling with loving adoptive parents, Mallory must face a new milestone—spending her senior year at public high school. But of all the terrifying and exhilarating scenarios she's imagined, there's one she never dreamed of—that she'd run into Rider Stark, the friend and protector she hasn't seen since childhood, on her very first day.

It doesn't take long for Mallory to realize that the connection she shared with Rider never really faded. Yet the deeper their bond grows, the more it becomes apparent that she's not the only one grappling with lingering scars from the past. And as she watches Rider's life spiral out of control, Mallory must make a choice between staying silent and speaking out—for the people she loves, the life she wants and the truths that need to be heard.

MY THOUGHTS
As heartbreaking as this was, it was sadly too predictable for me. I'm emphasizing the "too" because this was like Perfect Chemistry (Simone Elkeles) meets Until Friday Night (by Abbi Glines) but even without those two books, it's still something I felt like I've already read before that I can already tell what's going to happen next. I didn't also feel the romance much in this book? Like it didn't spark something in me though I did find some of their moments precious and as the story goes on, it does progress.

Despite how I was kind of let down by this book, still, props to the author for tackling neglect and abuse through a girl perspective who's now moving on with her life and looking forward to a bright future. I can't say it was perfect executed but I like how our protagonist is trying her best. It was good reading what goes through her mind when she wants to speak like she's trying to tell herself that it's okay and when she does, she cheers herself up. It was actually cute and heartfelt that this girl with a rough past is not backing down--though she has her moments of wanting to speak but unable to, I still find her determination to be admirable.

I still recommend The Problem With Forever because I'm sure some people will likely be touched by the story.

MY RATING

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Book Review: The Unexpected Everything

Title: The Unexpected Everything
Author: Morgan Matson
Publication Date: May 3, 2016
Genres: Young Adult, Contemporary
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon

Andie had it all planned out.

When you are a politician’s daughter who’s pretty much raised yourself, you learn everything can be planned or spun, or both. Especially your future.

Important internship? Check.

Amazing friends? Check.

Guys? Check (as long as we’re talking no more than three weeks).

But that was before the scandal. Before having to be in the same house with her dad. Before walking an insane number of dogs. That was before Clark and those few months that might change her whole life.

Because here’s the thing—if everything’s planned out, you can never find the unexpected.

And where’s the fun in that?

MY THOUGHTS
Another great read from Morgan Matson that I'm sure to be rereading it once I get the free time. This is the second book of hers that I read after Amy & Roger's Epic Detour and again, she didn't disappoint.

The protagonist - Andie was a cool protagonist for me. I don't have a complaint about Andie. She's likable and reading through her POV was one heck of a ride. The thing about her is that she cares for the people she loves that sometimes she does things her own way to solve the problem.

Family relationships - it was a rocky road for Andie and her dad to get past the short-lived conversations and awkwardness. This is one of the things I loved a lot in this book. I loved how her dad was trying and Andie was willing to cooperate because really, I've read a ton of parent-child relationships where either party is too stubborn to give up their pride for the night. Regarding her mom, it was sad whenever Andie shares a memory of her. You can really tell she loves her and how much of a sweet person she is.

Friendship - I love it whenever the four of them are together. They had their funny and sad moments and their group chats are always amusing to read. Although, like every friendship, theirs had their ups and downs. It was just unfortunate what happened but the ending made me think that there's still hope for them to be together again as four again.

Romance - I love Clark and Andie's moments because they talk about a lot of stuff and this whole story they made up was really entertaining and together, they were just really cute. I like they started as friends and bonded first. Their relationship wasn't also smooth but how they worked it out was a good read.

Overall, The Unexpected Everything was good and unexpectedly bittersweet. A reread-worthy young adult contemporary. This book has extra bonus points for the puppies.

MY RATING

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Book Review: The Star-Touched Queen

Title: The Star-Touched Queen
Author: Roshani Chokshi
Publication Date: April 26, 2016
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon

Fate and fortune. Power and passion. What does it take to be the queen of a kingdom when you’re only seventeen?

Maya is cursed. With a horoscope that promises a marriage of death and destruction, she has earned only the scorn and fear of her father’s kingdom. Content to follow more scholarly pursuits, her whole world is torn apart when her father, the Raja, arranges a wedding of political convenience to quell outside rebellions. Soon Maya becomes the queen of Akaran and wife of Amar. Neither roles are what she expected: As Akaran’s queen, she finds her voice and power. As Amar’s wife, she finds something else entirely: Compassion. Protection. Desire…

But Akaran has its own secrets—thousands of locked doors, gardens of glass, and a tree that bears memories instead of fruit. Soon, Maya suspects her life is in danger. Yet who, besides her husband, can she trust? With the fate of the human and Otherworldly realms hanging in the balance, Maya must unravel an ancient mystery that spans reincarnated lives to save those she loves the most…including herself.

MY THOUGHTS

"Come with me and you shall be an empress with the moon for your throne and constellations to wear in your hair. Come with me and I promise you that we will always be equals."

The Star-Touched Queen is a very magical book and I admire Roshani Chokshi's lyrical writing because it really gave me the whole fantasy feeling when I read it. The plot was unique with the horoscope because I hardly come across books with that kind of theme. Props also for a strong female lead. I like how her being hesitant to trust a stranger, who's her husband, was something to relate. It's a stranger. Despite the friendly actions, still a stranger. I love her heart when it comes to her sister and how she's willing to take the risk if it means to save the people she loves. Her determination was admirable. Though I like to point out that even with all this admiration I have for her, she did still made some mistakes (something I had under the spoiler in my Goodreads review so if you haven't read the book, please don't click it).

However, as much as I enjoyed the book at some point, I was lost majority of the time. My interest started to really rise during Part II but even then, there were still parts where I question what is going on or what time/dimension is it already. The thing is, there are these doors--as said from the summary--and each door hides something. That was where I got confused. There's also the whole timetable in which again, I'm confused. The whole tapestry thing is another on the list. I even wonder if it's like Disney's Brave because the tapestry was connected to the story (the whole "fate" thing). The whole deal of how the tapestry works was explained but the details or process didn't really register in my head. I get the connection but I had a hard time picturing it--me picturing the book's scenarios helps me whenever I read because my imagination is doing this "mini movie" but sadly for this one, I had a hard time grasping. There were also things that somehow I wish there's more depth into it: the whole curse/horoscope (this might have been explained well but again, I was lost), the relationship with Maya and Nritti, Maya's past and how she got to where she is now.. even her relationship with Amar which was also intriguing for me (love the whole jaani endearment though, that was just sweet).

I started to get the hang on the last few chapters since there was a clear action going on and not just Maya wandering the palace and opening doors. The last chapter was kind of a mixed scenario for me because a lot of things were happening and to think it's nearing the end.

I'd still recommend The Star-Touched Queen despite my 3-star rating. It really is a beautiful book, it's just that I had a hard time understanding stuff. I might read this again in the future and maybe I'll finally get it. For now, I'm just gonna leave this here. Also, this book would've made a really great movie. Just imagine how awesome the cinematography will be (you'll get what I mean if you've read it).

MY RATING

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Book Review: Shameless

Title: Shameless
Author: Lex Martin
Publication Date: April 26, 2016
Genres: New Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon

Brady…

What the hell do I know about raising a baby? Nothing. Not a goddamn thing.

Yet here I am, the sole guardian of my niece. I’d be lost if it weren’t for Katherine, the beautiful girl who seems to have all the answers. Katherine, who’s slowly finding her way into my cynical heart.

I keep reminding myself that I can’t fall for someone when we don’t have a future. But telling myself this lie and believing it are two different things.

Katherine…

When Brady shows up on a Harley, looking like an avenging angel—six feet, three inches of chiseled muscle, eyes the color of wild sage, and sun-kissed skin emblazoned with tattoos—I’m not sure if I should fall at his feet or run like hell. Because if I tell him what happened the night his family died, he might hate me.

What I don’t count on are the nights we spend together trying to forget the heartache that brought us here. I promise him it won’t mean anything, that I won’t fall in love.

I shouldn’t make promises I can’t keep.

MY THOUGHTS
Lex Martin made me so happy with this one. Before Shameless, I read two books that made me emotionally exhausted (in a good way) so I needed something that could stop my book hangover and pick up my mood: Shameless did just that. Although this was also an emotional roller-coaster, but it was definitely what I needed at the moment and I'm so glad I picked it up. This book had enough fluff and sweetness to make me swoon. It also had enough hotness to make me melt. Props also for the humor.

I roll my eyes. "I know I look young but I'm not that young." I already told him my age.

"No, twenty-three is old enough."

"Old enough for what?" I ask innocently as I stare up at him. Old enough for you?

He clears his throat. "Old enough to vote."

Brady just received a shocking news that caused him to pack his bags and stay in Texas. There, he was met with a realization that made him wish things were different and if only he could've have been a little more understanding and open. Taking care of a baby was never on his list of expectations. And he has no idea where to start. Even though he's clueless of what to do, Katherine was there to help.

Brady and Katherine make a really good tag-team. Brady's patient and a good listener everytime Katherine explains something to him and I love it whenever Kat inserts a little bit of Spanish here and there... or when she's pissed so she goes on full rambling/cursing. I love their chemistry, it's one of the things I enjoyed reading. And they're not only raising a little girl, they also got crops and animals to take care of plus some things in the house needed fixing. I want to take about the animals though. There are A LOT. For someone who loves animals, I want to live in this farm and adopt them all. I suddenly want a raccoon (Brady and Bandit are so cute... and hilarious).

I feel like I flew through this book--which means the story was good that I didn't have the heart to put it down. Kat and Brady's relationship isn't also insta-love. It had a good build-up and it was one of the book relationships I had a good time reading because of its adorableness, sweetness, hilarity and hotness (the sexual tension was just *fans self*) and the two had this understanding and respect where they don't push the other when one doesn't want to open up just yet. And when it comes to family relationships, I'm glad there's no "evil one" here because lately, I wanted to read something with a good family dynamic. There were some issues, yes, but they don't take away the meaning of "family". They're a good bunch to be around.

I already plan on rereading this. Can't get enough of Kat and Brady, and little Isabella just pulls your heartstrings with her cuteness.

MY RATING

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Book Review: The Rose & the Dagger

Title: The Rose and the Dagger
Series: The Wrath and the Dawn, #2
Author: Renée Ahdieh
Publication Date: April 26, 2016
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy, Retelling
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon

I am surrounded on all sides by a desert. A guest, in a prison of sand and sun. My family is here. And I do not know whom I can trust.

In a land on the brink of war, Shahrzad has been torn from the love of her husband Khalid, the Caliph of Khorasan. She once believed him a monster, but his secrets revealed a man tormented by guilt and a powerful curse—one that might keep them apart forever. Reunited with her family, who have taken refuge with enemies of Khalid, and Tariq, her childhood sweetheart, she should be happy. But Tariq now commands forces set on destroying Khalid's empire. Shahrzad is almost a prisoner caught between loyalties to people she loves. But she refuses to be a pawn and devises a plan.

While her father, Jahandar, continues to play with magical forces he doesn't yet understand, Shahrzad tries to uncover powers that may lie dormant within her. With the help of a tattered old carpet and a tempestuous but sage young man, Shahrzad will attempt to break the curse and reunite with her one true love.

MY THOUGHTS
A beautiful conclusion of one of the many fantasy books I've come to love. The Rose & the Dagger takes us to Shahrzad back with her family and the people whom she knew most of her life yet are enemies with her husband, Khalid. During her stay, she discovered secrets that could either help her and the people she loved or could put them in danger and be used for destruction.

My emotions were all over the place because The Wrath & the Dawn left me in a state where I want the next book ASAP. This duology easily became my favorite because of its interesting characters with their own stories to tell, the world-building where there's magic and curses discovered, Shazi's stories and the love between her and Khalid--and not just them though. Other characters were falling in love and they all made me so happy and... heartbroken (you'll know when you read it). Their love stories are the kind that made my heart flutter and shatter at the same time. When Sharhzad and Khalid fell in love, a part of me fell in love with them.

I love Renée Ahdieh for that plot twist. I did not expect that AT ALL. I had to keep myself awake because all I could think of was "I WON'T STOP UNTIL I FINISH THIS BOOK TONIGHT" and I did. Although the book have some stuff that I think weren't necessary (posted them in my Goodreads review but warning: SPOILER ALERT). Still, I gave this a solid 5 stars because I might have some bit of issue with it, the good stuff outweighed (a lot!) the ones that I think were irrelevant or just plain no.

Shahrzad al-Khayzuran is truly a queen. With or without a crown, to me she is one. A strong girl who doesn't belong anyone but herself. A girl with a brave heart and a bright mind. I love her so much. Also a standing ovation to the other female characters in these books because they have their own unique personalities, wits and smarts. I won't discuss them because I might give away. Their stories is for you to discover.

The ground did not exist. Nor did the sky.
Here, she was truly boundless.
Fear would never overtake her again.

This is the last book and it's time for that goodbye. As hard as it is for me not being able to read more about them, I'm glad and satisfied. Thank you, Renée Ahdieh, for the story that made my reading and waiting so worthwhile.

MY RATING

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Book Review: A Magic Dark and Bright

Title: A Magic Dark and Bright
Series: The Asylum Saga, #1
Author: Jenny Adams Perinovic
Publication Date: April 28th, 2015
Genres: Young Adult, Paranormal
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon

She meant to help a ghost...not unleash a curse.

Amelia Dupree hasn’t seen the Woman in White since the night her brother died.

The ghost seems to have disappeared from the woods surrounding Asylum, Pennsylvania—that is, until Charlie Blue moves into the creepy old MacAllister House next door. Amelia can’t help liking him, even though she spent her childhood thinking his grandmother was a witch. And she definitely can’t ignore the connection between his arrival and the Woman in White’s return.

Then Amelia learns that the Woman in White is a prisoner, trapped between the worlds of the living and the dead. Devastated by the idea that her brother could be suffering a similar fate, Amelia decides to do whatever it takes to help the Woman in White find peace--and Charlie agrees to help her.

But when Amelia’s classmates start to drown in the Susquehanna River, one right after another, rumors swirl as people begin to connect the timing of Charlie’s arrival with the unexplained deaths. As Charlie and Amelia uncover the dark history of Asylum, they realize they may have unleashed an unspeakable evil. One they have to stop before everything they love is destroyed.

MY THOUGHTS
I saw this on Goodreads and the summary sounded like the type of book I'd read so gave it a try. Now, this one didn't disappoint. I just started the book and I already got spooked. Really, Amelia looking out the window at three in the morning looking for some ghost is enough to creep me out.

A Magic Dark and Bright is engaging in a way that's enough for the reader to keep going because of the mysterious air it gives. I had no plans of putting this one down anyway because like I said, it's my kind of book and I love how this is actually connected to something historical and Jenny Adams Perinovic did a good job with it while adding some twists and turns. I wasn't familiar at all about the historical background so props to the author because I learned something and I might just do some research on it since I'm intrigued.

Despite the fun I had with this, I have a lot of questions that needed some answers. That ending made me want the next book as soon as possible because it just made me question stuff a whole lot more. Oh and the last few chapters were my favorite because things got exciting, scary and heartbreaking. Though at the same time, I was getting goosebumps at some scenes because they were somehow graphic--not very detailed but enough for the imagination to picture. I'm not easily bothered by blood which is by the way, a trigger warning for the readers who have this in their TBR or those who are curious about this but are uncomfortable with it. Nevertheless, I'm so glad I picked this up.

Really, I WANT THE NEXT BOOK ASAP. I hope my questions will be answered and I also hope Charlie and Emma sort their feelings out because... that hurts.

MY RATING

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Book Review: Listen To Me

Title: Listen To Me
Series: Fusion, #1
Author: Kristen Proby
Publication Date: April 12, 2016
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon

Seduction is quickly becoming the hottest new restaurant in Portland, and Addison Wade is proud to claim 1/5 of the credit. She’s determined to make it a success and can’t think of a better way to bring in new customers than live music. But when former rock star Jake Keller swaggers through the doors to apply for the weekend gig, she knows she’s in trouble. Addie instantly recognizes him—his posters were plastered all over her bedroom walls in high school—he’s all bad boy...exactly her type and exactly what she doesn’t need.

Jake Keller walked away from the limelight five years ago and yearns to return to what’s always driven him: the music. If he gets to work for a smart-mouthed, funny-as-hell bombshell, all the better. But talking Addie into giving him the job is far easier than persuading her that he wants more than a romp in her bed. Just when she begins to drop her walls, Jake’s past finally catches up with him.

Will Addie be torn apart once again or will Jake be able to convince her to drown out her doubts and listen to her heart?

MY THOUGHTS
I love (yes, present tense) Kristen Proby's With Me in Seattle series and I'm not surprised that I love this one as well. Her writing when it comes to romance, friendships and family relationships (blood-related or not) makes me sigh happily because there's always this strong bond the characters have and it makes you want to be a part of them (I want the Montgomery family to adopt me.... but at the same time I don't because I wanna marry Will).

"It's our song," she says softly.

"No, baby. It's your song. We don't need a song. We are a song."

Addie and Jake make me want to cry.

I felt all warm and fuzzy on the inside reading Listen To Me and then I was on a ride down Emotional Street. This was funny and sweet but also heartbreaking at the same time. One of the many things I love about this is the music. It somehow takes me back to Play With Me and Rock With Me (from the With Me in Seattle series). Jake Keller singing his heart out was beautiful to read considering what he'd been through-something that I won't spoil. And Addie's got the hots for musicians so I don't blame her falling for him. Same goes for Jake because Addie's one amazing woman and I admire her determination and passion even though she's been betrayed and left many times already. Loved reading that they took their time in getting to know each other at the same time being honest that they are also attracted to each other. One of the things I love about Kristen Proby's writing because even if the attraction and tension are there, there's always this build-up in the characters' relationship which I approve of.

There were times where I want to shake the main characters back to their senses (more on Addie) because they're sometimes not thinking clearly and are stubborn. But sometimes it was understandable and it just made me flip the pages more because the story's pretty interesting. I love the angst. And not only did Jake and Addie made my feelings whirl in a crazy ride, so did the minor characters. I wouldn't call them minor characters for long though because this book is a part of the series and they will definitely be getting their own books and the thought of reading them gets me so excited.

This is my first full review of an Adult book. I read Adult books but only post little snippets of my thoughts in Goodreads and not in my blog. This one felt like it deserves its own review simply because I love Kristen Proby's works and this one just caught my attention and sparked my interest for the series.

MY RATING

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Book Review: November 9

Title: November 9
Author: Colleen Hoover
Publication Date: November 10, 2015
Genres: New Adult, Contemporary
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon

Fallon meets Ben, an aspiring novelist, the day before her scheduled cross-country move. Their untimely attraction leads them to spend Fallon’s last day in L.A. together, and her eventful life becomes the creative inspiration Ben has always sought for his novel. Over time and amidst the various relationships and tribulations of their own separate lives, they continue to meet on the same date every year. Until one day Fallon becomes unsure if Ben has been telling her the truth or fabricating a perfect reality for the sake of the ultimate plot twist.

MY THOUGHTS
Colleen Hoover did another great job in surprising me with a twist and making me go through an emotional whirlwind. I still feel the aftermath of Maybe Someday, the last book of hers that I read, and I was both excited and scared to read this one. Excited because the plot sounded good, scared because Colleen Hoover knows how to deliver a great amount of angst in her books.

“What’s it called?” she asks.

“What’s what called?”

“Our book. What’s the title going to be?”

“November Nine.”

Fallon and Ben are the kind of characters you want to get to know deeper. It’s like peeling an onion and going through its layers. I hope that’s not a bad metaphor because it’s quite fitting for some reason. They got their own family issues, aspirations in life, insecurities and secrets. Their agreement to meet on every 9th of November without contact made the book and title interesting. But November 9 wasn’t just a date, it was more than that. It held a big part of both Ben and Fallon’s lives.

The book’s summary about the ultimate plot twist wasn’t lying though. For me, it was a dark kind of twist and other readers will probably put this book down and not continue it but it didn’t work on me. It got more intriguing that I had to continue. That was the reason why I grabbed on to the pages until the ending. I had a WHAT?! reaction, no kidding. Props so much to the author for tugging my emotions and for surprising me the most. When you thought things are going smooth but then it’s like, “Nah, not yet”. For that and for the engaging story, thank you to the author for another swoon-worthy yet heartbreaking book.

MY RATING

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Book Review: The Forbidden Wish

Title: The Forbidden Wish
Author: Jessica Khoury
Publication Date: February 23, 2016
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy, Retellings
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon

When Aladdin discovers Zahra’s jinni lamp, Zahra is thrust back into a world she hasn’t seen in hundreds of years—a world where magic is forbidden and Zahra’s very existence is illegal. She must disguise herself to stay alive, using ancient shape-shifting magic, until her new master has selected his three wishes.

But when the King of the Jinn offers Zahra a chance to be free of her lamp forever, she seizes the opportunity—only to discover she is falling in love with Aladdin. When saving herself means betraying him, Zahra must decide once and for all: is winning her freedom worth losing her heart?

As time unravels and her enemies close in, Zahra finds herself suspended between danger and desire in this dazzling retelling of Aladdin from acclaimed author Jessica Khoury.

MY THOUGHTS
Another great read, another book to add to my favorites list.

“But every wish has its price, and the price of the Forbidden Wish is thy life. Thou must swear upon the souls of thy people that thou wilt never speak those words. If thou shouldst suffer for the love of me, I would never forgive myself.”

Every bit of The Forbidden Wish was a ride of adventure and I enjoyed every thrilling turn with the emotional ups and downs. The story sucks you in with its magical world and interesting characters from the poor people who seek revolution and freedom to the royals who have their secrets to keep and to the creatures who possess magic and power for either good or evil.

Zahra–I love her. She has been inside the lamp for thousands of years and still haunted by the memory of her past with a human. Which also caused my heart to break for her. Reading what she’s been through and the bond she’s formed with a queen who treated her like a sister only for things to end tragically was just sad. Stuff like this always make me go “WHY DO BAD THINGS HAPPEN TO GOOD CHARACTERS”. And as always, my favorites ones are the ones who are always doomed. But despite all that, Zahra managed to be a strong female lead not just physically but also emotionally and mentally. I admire her strength and how smart she is. Aladdin, on the other hand, was a fun character to get to know. I love his witty self and how he cares for Zahra and the people who thought he would be their hero even though he’s very sure that he is not one and will never be. His and Zahra’s chemistry also made me swoon and had me elighted to read every moment they shared. It made me so happy on the inside everytime.

Zahra and Aladdin aren’t the only two with amazing stories to share. There’s Caspida and her Watchmaidens who are the very definition of “squad goals” and “girls bite back”. Really, if I could step into a fictional world with enough abilities to fight, I want them to recruit me to join them. I love the Watchmaidens loyalty to Caspida and how they would risk their lives to protect her and of course, Caspida cares about them a lot too. I was a bottle of emotions when it came to them… and later on with Caspida and Zahra. The female friendship and girls fighting alongside each other here made me love this book even more.

“Are you with me?”

“In victory or death, I will be at your side, sister.”

This book is worth rereading and if you love fantasy and fairy tale retellings then I definitely recommend you get your hands on this. The Forbidden Wish even has a light humor in it that will definitely ease up the worries or tension you for the characters.

MY RATING

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Book Review: One More Chance

Title: One More Chance
Series: Rosemary Beach, #8; Chance, #2
Author: Abbi Glines
Publication Date: September 02, 2014
Genres: New Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon

Grant Carter did everything in his power to convince Harlow Manning that he was a good guy. More than a smooth-talker and someone she could trust. He had to overcome his reputation as a playboy, and his history with Harlow’s half-sister, Nan, a woman with a reputation of her own.

Harlow had taken the chance, falling hard and fast for the guy who thrilled her with his all-consuming desire. After a lifetime of avoiding bad boys like Grant, she had opened herself to the possibilities of love…

But a life-changing secret has torn them apart, and now Grant and Harlow must decide if they have enough fight to make it work - or if the pain of betrayal has permanently destroyed their future.

MY THOUGHTS
I’ve read a lot of Abbi Glines’ books but I’m not going to lie that One More Chance is definitely my favorite of them all. Grant and Harlow’s story snatched my interest since they met in Forever Too Far. Honestly, the first book (Take A Chance) didn’t really leave me some sparks due to the whole Nan situation that there’s a constant conflict in Grant and Harlow’s progressing relationship. The trust issue was somehow hard to deal with even though I understand the reason for holding back the trust. I just wasn’t much into it. And then this happened.

I shed some tears reading this and I was honestly on the edge of my seat the whole time reading the letters because I was concerned over Harlow’s situation. I know she’s one strong girl and I definitely love her as a character… STILL I WAS WORRIED. Harlow is so loved and she deserves every bit of it and it makes me happy that she loves Grant and he loves her back just as much. Grant is also making me emotional in this book that I had to read his chapters oh-so-thoroughly because he’s changed so much for the better. It was beautiful and heartwarming to read.

“Nothing in this world has ever shone as brightly as you do or made me want to be a better person like you do.”

That’s one of my favorite lines in this book. I love reading where a character gets inspired and made him/her want to be a better person for themselves and for the person they want to be with. Grant and Harlow’s relationship took such a big step and… I’m just honestly so happy to read it (happy where tears are involved).

Nan, on the other hand, I feel like I’m the only one or one of the very few who doesn’t hate her. I know the girl’s been through a rough upbringing thanks to bad and absent parenting. She just needed a hug and I’m a firm believer she’ll let out that nice girl inside her once again. The one that she did at the hospital was a touching thing to read, and so is her POV in this book. I want to hug her and tell her that she deserves love and she will find it. Her past actions are no excuse but things could still be fixed. The only thing that made me sad was that she returned to her nasty self but it’s still a long way ahead for her book so things could still smooth out.

I’m incredibly late with this book but I’m so glad that I made the decision to continue the Rosemary Beach books after Forever Too Far. One More Chance is definitely a must-read even if you fell off from the story in the last book. It’s such a good read about sacrifice, overcoming your fears, thinking about the good instead of the bad for your future, being strong despite what life brings you, and love. Love that isn’t just between two lovers but also between friends and family, blood-related or not.

“You’re our beginning. It’s time we live without fear. You’re the most wonderful chance I ever took.”

I love this one. A LOT.

MY RATING

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Book Review: The Siren

Title: The Siren
Author: Kiera Cass
Publication Date: January 26, 2016
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy
Add to: Goodreads / Amazon

A girl with a secret.
The boy of her dreams.
An Ocean between them.

Years ago, Kahlen was rescued from drowning by the Ocean. To repay her debt, she has served as a Siren ever since, using her voice to lure countless strangers to their deaths. Though a single word from Kahlen can kill, she can’t resist spending her days on land, watching ordinary people and longing for the day when she will be able to speak and laugh and live freely among them again.Kahlen is resigned to finishing her sentence in solitude…until she meets Akinli. Handsome, caring, and kind, Akinli is everything Kahlen ever dreamed of.

Falling in love with a human breaks the Ocean’s rules. But for the first time in a lifetime of following the rules, Kahlen is determined to follow her heart.

MY THOUGHTS
I am all for mythological themes in books and mermaids/sirens happen to be my favorite kind although I can’t really say I’ve read a lot because I haven’t but once I come across one, I feel like picking it up.

The Siren was a light read with an interesting plot including a mother-daughter relationship, friendship/sisterhood between the sirens, a cute love story, and Kahlen’s journey from her human self to becoming a siren. It’s heartwarming and saddening at the same time. There were parts of the book where I shed a tear. Kahlen’s connection with the Ocean, who is kind of like a Mother the sirens, is both beautiful and tense because one moment the Ocean is being all motherly and the next She becomes possessive (for a reason She explained in the book). Her friendship with the other sirens though made the reading experience more fun. How they love, care, protect and stand up for each other is something.

There wasn’t much conflict in this book, reason why I feel like wanting more. I was looking forward to some intense fight for Kahlen’s freedom. I was glad that this is a stand-alone but a part of me really felt it was lacking a tiny bit. Still, I enjoyed it and it had me grinning and shedding tears at some point.


MY RATING

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