Unrequited by Emma Grey

Unrequited
by Emma Grey
Release Date: 05/26/14
Series: No
Genrre: YA, Contemporary, Romance
Rating: Four Trees

Summary from Goodreads:
Seventeen-year-old Kat Hartland loathes Unrequited, the world's biggest boy band. Is she the only girl in Sydney who can't be bothered with perfect-looking Angus Marsden?

Give her 5 Seconds of Summer. Now.

Or maybe the seriously-hot med student who rescued her on a train—and who could be Douglas Booth's twin! Perfect formal partner, much?

But when Kat comes face to face with Angus Marsden himself, things start to get complicated. Very. Throw in a deranged female popstar, final exams, a part in the musical and a mum who just doesn't get it—and where is her best friend?

When did life get so crazy? Kat's just an ordinary schoolgirl.

Isn't she?

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MY THOUGHTS

To start off this review, I feel like I should get this out of the way, the idea for the book is so crazy and unrealistic. I mean lets face it, this would never happen in real life, yet the author manages to completely convince me that it's possible and draw me into the Unrequited world. 

One of the things I enjoyed the most about the book was the fact that you really didn't know who Kat would end up with. Was it going to be the hot med student or would it be the world famous singer? I thought the author did a fantastic job at keeping the reader guessing.

Another aspect of the novel that I loved was the fact that Kat was just a regular student struggling through school. As a current senior in high school trying to balance a million other things I really related to her and thought she was a great example of a normal person (or as normal as you get knowing a superstar). I also liked Kat as a character. She knew who she was and didn't want to change it and conform to other people's ideas. I appreciated how she didn't care what people thought of her and loved her attitude about everything. Kat was a character that really made the book for me.

While the idea for Unrequited isn't new I truly enjoyed all the twists and turns the author employed that made her book really stick out.  I think that the author had several unique ideas that set her book apart from the other girl meets boy band books out there.

For me the book was a fast paced, fun novel that took my mind off school and the work that I was supposed to be doing. I would definitely check out anything else this author writes! 

MY RATING

Buy Links:

Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Kobo Books

Read the first three chapters at: www.unrequited.com.au

Book Trailer:


About the Author
Emma Grey has two teenage girls, a three-year-old boy, a couple of businesses and another teen novel in the pipeline. Her first book, 'Wits' End Before Breakfast! Confessions of a Working Mum' was published in 2005.

Author Links:

Website│Goodreads│Twitter│Facebook

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The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight

Title: The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight
Author: Jennifer E. Smith
Genre: YA, Contemporary, Romance
Series: Stand-alone
Content: Kissing
Rating: Bison

So I went into this book not expecting to like it. I mean really I just wanted a quick light read and this was the Amazon teen deal of the day. So then I was like why not, it's gotten some amazing reviews and I loved the title. Yeah I know a lot of people thought it was too long, but I thought it had a nice ring to it. So I read it and well I REALLY LIKED IT. So I don't believe at love at first sight. Well except for dogs, I can totally love a dog at first sight, but people, UMMMMM, nope, not possible. People are way to complex. So I was a bit skeptical when it was talking about love at first sight, well anyways here's my breakdown.
THE PREMISE
Hadley just missed her flight by FOUR minutes. And she's not too happy about. Well if she thought that maybe she could get out of her father's wedding this way, then that would be great, but she knows everyone will just get more upset. So then she meets Oliver, who goes to Yale and is from Great Britain, which makes everything a bit better. So they talk a lot and then the book sort of takes off from there.
THE PROS
1. I loved the characters. Hadley and Oliver were just awesome and all of the other characters were pretty cool too.
2. Character development. I love how even in the course of 24 hours people can change and develop. Normally I'd see this as a bad thing because how can someone change so dramatically in 24 hours, but this felt realistic.
3. The concept. I love the whole meeting in an airport thing; I mean that's just a great idea.
4. The writing. I loved this authors writing style. Like it is REALLY good!!
THE CONS
1. There was no solid ending. I am a big fan of solid endings, like epilogues, so unless there is another book planned, I WANT AN EPILOGUE!!!I really love epilogues, even if it's like a one paragraph thing.
OVERALL
I really liked this book and it was definitely worth my time and effort to read. I plan to read other books by this author, too.
WOULD I READ THIS BOOK: YES
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK: YEP
WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: WITHOUT A DOUBT
WOULD I READ OTHER BOOKS BY THIS AUTHOR: YES!!!(She has a book called This is What Happy Looks Like, and it sounds awesome.)

BISON=FOUR STARS

A Girl Named Digit

Title: A Girl Named Digit
Author: Annabel Managhan
Genre: YA, action, Adventure, Realistic Fiction
Recommended for 14 and up
Series: Digit #1
Rating: Owl


So this book has been on my TBR list for a while, but I'd never gotten to buying it.. So I finally bought it and OMG, this book was good. No, I'm lying. This book was so fanfreakingtastic, that I wanted to jump up and down and scream. So now that my total and complete love for this book has been established, let me break it down for you.
THE PREMISE
Farrah "Digit" Higgins may be going to MIT in the fall, but this L.A. high school genius has left her geek self behind in another school district so she can blend in with the popular crowd at Santa Monica High and actually enjoy her senior year. But when Farrah, the daughter of a UCLA math professor, unknowingly cracks a terrorist group's number sequence, her laid-back senior year gets a lot more interesting. Soon she is personally investigating the case, on the run from terrorists, and faking her own kidnapping-- all while trying to convince a young, hot FBI agent to take her seriously. So much for blending in...
(Summary from Goodreads)
THE PROS
1. Awesome characters. I loved Digit and John and also Digits friends, even though you didn't hear much about them.
2. Digit's evolution. Since I don't want to give to much away, I think that a lot of times in a book you don't see the evolution of a character until it's over. In this book you see Digit gradually changing and becoming her own person instead of a mirror to others.
3. Digit's parents. Gotta love those supportive parents!!
4. The bad guys. So yeah I kinda did see that one coming, but still he had a good reason.
5. The danger. I love the whole pressure thing. Like everyone's gonna die if you can't do this. I thought it was unrealistic they would put it on Digit's shoulders to crack all those codes, I mean the FBI and CIA do have code breakers, but I totally get why the author would have Digit do the heavy lifting.
6. The Math. Who doesn't love math, Seriously!!
7. The ending. Who doesn't love the sweet ending!!
So yeah I do have more pros, but since listing them all would take forever I won't.
THE CONS
1. I normally feel like I have to list at least one con, but I am making an exception for this book.I guess the biggest thing would be is how they were always talking about how she wasn't 18 yet. That didn't really detract from how much I love the book, but it kinda... I don't know threw me off in some of the situations.
THE OVERALL
This book was epic! I loved it, as you can see above.This book was full of so much epicness I was shocked. So in all I loved the character interactions, the action, and the epic awesomeness!Thank You Annabel Monaghan and please keep writing!!
WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: OBVIOUSLY BECAUSE IT IS TOTALLY AWESOME!!!
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK: ALREADY DID AND I SURE WON'T BE RETURNING IT!!
AM I TOTALLY AND COMPLETELY IN LOVE WITH THIS BOOK: DUH
WOULD I READ THE NEXT BOOK: YES
WOULD I READ MORE BY THIS AUTHOR: EVEN IF IT WASN'T MY THING I WOULD STILL GIVE IT A GO!!
Fav quote: "For years I've gone to bed gazing up at the eternal question: WHAT IF THE HOCKEY POKEY IS WHAT IT'S ALL ABOUT?"
Okay that is the end of my gushing, and I think YOU should read this book!!

OWL=FIVE STARS

Scarlet by A.C. Gaughen

Title: Scarlet
Author: A.C. Gaughen
Genre: YA, Historical Fiction, Action, Adventure, Romance
Series: Scarlet #1 (No idea when the next book is coming out)
Rating: Owl
Other books you might enjoy: Robin: Lady of Legend, The Agency Series, Cross my Heart, Venom

Let me start out with this. Robin Hood is my absolute favorite myth/legend/fable/whatever else it may be called. I’ve read one other Robin Hood book (Robin: Lady of Legend) which was really good. So going into this book I was worried the author might butcher the story. Well the good news is that she didn’t. There were things that I didn’t like so much, but there was so much that I ADORED!! So here’s my breakdown:
THE PREMISE
Scarlet is one of Robin Hood’s Merry Men. (In the original tale she is known as Will Scarlet) The thing is she is neither a man nor is she merry. She has a very mysterious background and is pretty awesome with knives. She and the others are working to undermine the Sheriff. (Obviously) She is also a thief and a good one at that. When the Thief Taker, Guy of Gisbourne, comes to town in search of Robin Hood, she must face her past.
THE PROS
1. Ummmm, it’s a retelling of Robin Hood. Need I say more?
2. Scarlet=awesomeness. I loved her because any character that can fend for herself, steal, and throw knives is A-okay in my book! On top of that I love that she was so complex. She had a good reason for all of her actions.
3. The twist!! Okay I saw it coming, but my mom didn’t. But, I still loved it. I thought it was fantastic and the author built up a great suspense for it and then BAM. Really, Really, Really good.
4. The language. At first I was worried I was going to be distracted by the way the author chose to write the book, but in the end I LOVED IT. The only other book I think the writing compares to is Blood Red Road. (Which I really want to read)
5. Robin Hood. I loved Robin. He really is just fantastic. He cares about all of the townspeople and his men, too.
6. Little John. He was great and I just really liked him. The portrayal of him really fit who I always thought he would be.
7. I absolutely loved Much and how the author wrote him. I just thought he was great!!
THE CONS
1. Scarlet kind of played both John and Robin. I get that she didn’t really know her own feelings, but I still felt bad for John, although he was kind of a player.
2. Robin annoyed me at points, when he got all mad a Scarlet, I just couldn’t figure out why he didn’t let her at least explain herself.
3. The end. Not the end, end, but the close to the end part. It made me a bit angry, though it makes sense why the author chose to write it that way so she could continue the series.
4. I never understood what was mysterious about Scarlet’s eyes. Were they a funny color, shape, or like what? I just don’t get it.
OVERALL
Scarlet was really good. The kind of good that makes you want to smile all day. The kind of good that makes you not be able to fall asleep until you have read and soaked in. (A problem which seems hereditary in my family because both my mom and I stayed up until two or three in the morning to finish it.) Well, you probably get my point, about how good this book is. Let’s face it, Robin Hood is a really good story and deserves to be read about. This book lived up to my hopes (and dreams) and was simply INCREDIBLE!!
WOULD I READ THIS BOOK: YES!!!
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK:YEP!!!
WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: NO DOUBT ABOUT IT
WILL I READ THE NEXT BOOK: YES!!!(No, idea when it will come out though.) WILL I READ MORE BY THIS AUTHOR: YES

OWL=FIVE STARS

Etiquette & Espionage

Title: Etiquette & Espionage
Author: Gail Carriger
Genre: YA, Steampunk, Paranormal, Historical Fiction
Series: Finishing School #1
Recommended for 10 and up
Rating: Zebra

This is one of those books that proves my theory that there is no such thing as bad steampunk! This book....GAHHH!! I loved it!! This book had it all! So here's my book breakdown:

THE PREMISE
It's one thing to learn to curtsy properly. It's quite another to learn to curtsy and throw a knife at the same time. Welcome to Finishing School.

Fourteen-year-old Sophronia is a great trial to her poor mother. Sophronia is more interested in dismantling clocks and climbing trees than proper manners—and the family can only hope that company never sees her atrocious curtsy. Mrs. Temminick is desperate for her daughter to become a proper lady. So she enrolls Sophronia in Mademoiselle Geraldine's Finishing Academy for Young Ladies of Quality.

But Sophronia soon realizes the school is not quite what her mother might have hoped. At Mademoiselle Geraldine's, young ladies learn to finish...everything. Certainly, they learn the fine arts of dance, dress, and etiquette, but they also learn to deal out death, diversion, and espionage—in the politest possible ways, of course. Sophronia and her friends are in for a rousing first year's education.

Set in the same world as the Parasol Protectorate, this YA series debut is filled with all the saucy adventure and droll humor Gail Carriger's legions of fans have come to adore.
(Summary from GoodReads)
THE PROS
1.) The beginning. For me the beginning was a glimpse into the wonderful world of steampunk. Instead of wondering whether  the book I was reading was steampunk, this book immediatly came out with the fact, with an opening scene full of crashing dumbwaiters and flying trifle.
2.) The opening scene gave insight on Sophronia's character. You can quickly learn that she is going to be adventuresome, fearless, and extremely creative narrator!!
3.) I recently mentioned I absolutely adore animal sidekicks and while Sophronia's pet was slightly unconventional, who doesn't love a mechanical dog?
4.) Oh, how I loved the names! Mrs. Barnaclegoose, Frowbritcher, Lady Linette, among others. Normally I might choose to make fun of such strange names, but for this book they fit. The names seemed to add humor in a situation that otherwise would have been quite humorless.
5.) Sophronia's thoughts. Every now and again in italics Sophronia's thoughts would appear. She was so real and adventuresome. Her thoughts fit those that an adventuresome fourteen year old would have. She provided even more humor within the story for how real she acted. She was definitely a refreshing narrator!
6.) The mix of steampunk and paranormal. It is so hard to get the perfect combination of steampunk and another element. Just look at Innocent Darkness. It had such an interesting premise, but the execution was no good! Here the paranormal aspects of werewolves and vampires were perfectly mixed with the machines!
7.) The dialogue. Gail Carriger is an expert at writing. Her writing style fit perfectly with Sophronia's voice AND also was so interesting. Here's one of my favorite quotes; "It's irrelevant. Or do I mean irreverent."  At first I almost didn't catch that, but it fit so perfectly with the scene! 
8.) Vieve, Dimity, Pillover, and Soap. At first I thought there was no way I was going to like Dimity. In Sophronia's words "She seemed to be a bit of a prattler." But she just grew on me! She was so much more than the girl you first meet! Vieve, I love this character, I really do! If I was in this book I would want to act like Vieve! Soap, okay, HOW COULD YOU NOT LIKE SOAP??? He just....I LOVED HIM!!! And finally Pillover! Wanna-be evil genius.....EXECUTED TO PERFECTION.  There were so many parts with him where I just laughed! =D 
THE CONS
1.) I felt like Sophronia's name was too long. It's not that I didn't love her name, it's that it was so long and formal....I wish there had been a nickname!!
2.) I'm still confused to the exact nature of a Pickleman.
3.) Captain Niall, where did you go??? He was such an interesting character, but he just faded out! :'(
OVERALL
I enjoyed this book! It was action packed with a great mystery and amazing characters!! The premise and execution were fantastic! This was a great enjoyable read and I will be anxiously awaiting the next one!!!
WOULD I READ THIS BOOK: YES!!!!!!!
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK: IT IS WORTH THE MONEY
WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: TO ANY AND ALL STEAMPUNK FANS!
WILL I READ THE NEXT ONE: YEAH!!!!!
WILL I READ MORE BY THIS AUTHOR: Yes, she has an adult series, which is supposed to be good...HMMMMM....

Fav quotes:
 "Mummy and Daddy want him to be an evil genius, but he has his heart set on Latin verse. Don't you, Pill?"

 "But I have advanced eyelash fluttering to practice, and a mathematics problem concerning how to order strychnine and a lamb dinner on a limited budget, and three chapters on court etiquette to read, and my handkerchief to starch, and the quadrille to memorize!"

"I should never have thought there would be a time when I would envy another girl's eyelash manipulation."

ZEBRA=4.5 STARS

Shards and Ashes

Title: Shards and Ashes
Authors: Melissa Marr, Kelly Armstrong, Veronica Roth, Kami Garcia, Margaret Stohl, Rachel Caine, Nancy Holder, Beth Revis, and Carrie Ryan
Series: Several Short stories
Genre: Dystopia, YA, Short Stories, several others because there were several different stories....
Rating: Whale

So you have some of the biggest names in the book world, writing short stories. Each story is a take on a dystopian future. Each is unique. Many are exciting. Some are heartbreaking. Not all of them are amazing. You would think that each and every one of these stories would be filled with perfect amount of action and adventure. With the kind of characters that you can immediately connect to. Well that is an overrated notion. There were some real gems in here, but definitely not what I was expecting!
THE PREMISE
Gripping original stories of dystopian worlds from nine New York Times bestselling authors, edited by Melissa Marr and Kelley Armstrong.

The world is gone, destroyed by human, ecological, or supernatural causes. Survivors dodge chemical warfare and cruel gods; they travel the reaches of space and inhabit underground caverns. Their enemies are disease, corrupt corporations, and one another; their resources are few, and their courage is tested.

Powerful original dystopian tales from nine bestselling authors offer bleak insight, prophetic visions, and precious glimmers of light among the shards and ashes of a ruined world.

THE HEARKEN by Veronica Roth
I was expecting this one to be good! I mean come on, it's Veronica Roth. Her books are normally pretty epic. And this story was good. It was a great opener. It had a strong message. The main character, Darya, was strong and independent. My problem was I felt like the message was trying to force itself into my brain! The author was trying to hard to tell me the message. (Here's a spoiler for what the story was trying to say.) You need to look deeper. There is good in every person. No person can be all bad. There is "secret beauty".And I get what it's trying to tell you, I do! I just don't believe that and it felt like the author's message was too obvious. I didn't have to think about it! In all though I thought that the story was unique and original, one of the best in the bunch.
4/5 stars=BISON
BRANDED by Kelly Armstrong
I really enjoyed this story and it's supernatural take on the possible future. The characters felt well developed and I enjoyed hearing their story. It felt a bit unresolved and I would have loved to learn more. I did think it was a bit confusing with the twists, but I was able to understand it better the more I read about what was going on. This is one of the other stories that I thoroughly enjoyed.
4.5/5=ZEBRA
NECKLACE OF RAINDROPS by Margaret Stohl
This story....I had NO IDEA what was going on. There were these necklaces that everyone owned that controlled when they lived and died. But there was poison in people's bloodstreams and, and, and.....I'M SO CONFUSED!! It was like, let's jump out of a plane cause our lives are over because we've used all these magic beads that somehow keep us alive, but that girl over there will live forever because she never actually experiences life. SAY WHAT? The only promising thing about the story was the characters and the last couple of pages. Both were confusing, yet somehow good. Okay because that sounds really rambley, all I mean is the how, why, and what are never explained. HOW does being an adrenaline junkie kill you (aside from the obvious risk). WHAT exactly are the beads? HOW does this poison work? WHY do you need a necklace? WHY are people dropping (jumping out of planes) to kill themselves.  WHAT did Jai do in her job? EPIC CONFUSION!!
2.5/5 stars=BUTTERFLY
DOGSBODY by Rachel Caine
This one wasn't actually that bad. EXCEPT for the very end. I got to that part and was like really? They went through all of that for THAT?  SPOILER***Both of the main characters were killed and the whole place shut down.***SPOILER I just felt like it was all so pointless. I didn't even like the characters that much. I mean they were okay, but they just kind of were there and then they weren't. They went through so much trouble for revenge and then got nothing out of it. It was the classic (this might give away who the bad guy is so if you want to be shocked....DON'T READ THIS) Good Guy who is really secretly the Evil Villain plotting against the world. It wasn't bad, just really pointless. Reminds me of how I feel about 1984 or The Always War. POINTLESS. This was also confusing.
2.5/5=BUTTERFLY
PALE RIDER by Nancy Holder
Was this a short story part of a series? I was so epically confused that I just skimmed the last part. Then became even more confused because I had absolutely no idea what they were discussing. (Something about wars that occurred over 800 years ago, but are only beginning to take effect????) I may be missing something obvious....So if you read this and wanted to explain what was happening to me then feel free to tell me. I would love clarification! If this was part of a series and that's the reason why I understood nothing, then I apologize for this negative review.
1/5 stars=SHELL
CORPSE EATERS by Melissa Marr
This story had a great concept, but I was so confused about the main characters. Harmony was interesting, but everything she did just confused me. Chris was intersesting....kind of depressing, but interesting. The story was interesting. It wasn't really memorable or anything, but I would probably read more! The ending though, was so abrupt. It was just like, GAH, let's leave NOW!!! than it was over! WEIRD...
3/5=HORSE
BURN 3 by Kami Garcia
This one was enjoyable. It was interesting and the MC, Phoenix, was a strong character. She was determined to find her sister and managed to face her fears in the process. I would have liked to read more and see more developement of the characters. It reminded me a bit of Deviants......Like a dome and then a sister chasing a younger sibling and bringing them to safety.
3/5=HORSE
LOVE IS A CHOICE by Beth Revis
This is another of those stories that was a gem. I was not a huge fan of Across the Universe, but I loved this story. It offered a really interesting insight into the books. It might be confusing if you've never read the first book, but it definitely made me want to read the second.
5/5 stars=OWL
MIASMA by Carrie Ryan
This was my favorite story in the book. I LOVED the concept and the main characters. Frankie was great and I loved how desperately she wanted to save her sister. I thought that this story was a true gem and I would love to see more about this.
5/5 stars=OWL
OVERALL
I think that for me this was a letdown. I was expecting so much more from these authors. I feel like several of the stories weren't unique. It felt like a used idea. Something I'd read before. And those ones that were unique confused me to no end. I have actually never read books by several of these authors (Carrie Ryan, Nancy Holder, Rachel Caine) and maybe that effected my views. Overall there were several interesting stories that held my attention, but if they were all separate, I might not have ever read them. I do thuink this was an interesting book and I did for the most part find it enjoyable.
WOULD I READ THIS BOOK: Probably not the entire thing, but the stories I liked, YES
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK: MAYBE
WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: MAYBE
WOULD I READ MORE BY THESE AUTHORS: SOME: YES OTHERS: NO

WHALE=3.5 STARS








HAVE YOU EVER READ SHARDS AND ASHES? WHAT DID YOU THINK?
(And if you understood some of the things that I didn't, EXPLAIN!!)

Angelfall

Title: Angelfall
Author: Susan Ee
Genre: YA, action, Adventure, Angels, Romance, Sci-Fi
Series: Penryn & the End of Days #1
Rating: Owl

So many people are so quick to right off a book because it's self-published......WHY???? Several of my FAVORITE BOOKS EVER (including this one, Compis, The Scourge, Untraceable, you get the point) were self-published. And people are always saying that they won't read self-pub. books because of grammar errors and other stuff like that. (I'm really going to have to write a post on this topic) Okay, that was a huge tangent. Back on topic now, If you've heard that this book was AMAZING, then that person who told you is very trustworthy. BECAUSE THIS BOOK IS EPIC!!!

THE PREMISE
It's been six weeks since angels of the apocalypse descended to demolish the modern world. Street gangs rule the day while fear and superstition rule the night. When warrior angels fly away with a helpless little girl, her seventeen-year-old sister Penryn will do anything to get her back.

Anything, including making a deal with an enemy angel.

Raffe is a warrior who lies broken and wingless on the street. After eons of fighting his own battles, he finds himself being rescued from a desperate situation by a half-starved teenage girl.

Traveling through a dark and twisted Northern California, they have only each other to rely on for survival. Together, they journey toward the angels' stronghold in San Francisco where she'll risk everything to rescue her sister and he'll put himself at the mercy of his greatest enemies for the chance to be made whole again.
(Summary from Goodreads)
THE PROS
1.) Penryn. I LOVE HER!!! I'm not even exaggerating here. She is so awesome. She loves her sister and will do anything to protect her even if that means walking into an angel stronghold. She's an amazing fighter......AND JUST AWESOME.
2.) Raffe. So I'm not a big angel an. (Although recently I've been on an angel kick.) I think the only angel I can say I've liked is Unearthly. So I was worried I might not like Raffe. BUT I couldn't have been more wrong!
3.) The action. There is so much going on in this book and it's so fast paced.
4.) The uniqueness. This idea seems so unique and different!! I've never read another book that attributes the fall of the world to angels.
5.) There was NOT long monologues about religion. When I read a book inner monologues (especially religious ones) can kill the book for me. (Cough cough The Dead and the Gone)
6.) Okay truth is I think I loved practically everything about this book.
CONS
NONE
OVERALL
I LOVED Angelfall and can't wait for the next book in this series. By now you may have heard about how good this book is but never picked it up. Thinking something like, its not my style or it looks boring. Are you crazy?! Just read the book.
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK: YES
WOULD I READ THIS BOOK: YES
WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: YES
WILL I READ THE NEXT ONE:YES
WILL I READ MORE BY THIS AUTHOR:YES!!!!!!!!!!!

OWL=FIVE STARS

Mind Games

Title: Mind Games
Author: Kiersten White
Genre: YA, Action, Adventure, Paranormal, Thriller, Sci-Fi
Content: fighting
Series: Mind Games #1
Rating: Zebra


So there has been a lot of hype about Mind Games. Why? Because it is completely awesome. I've never read Kiersten White's Paranormalcy series so I had no idea what I would be getting into when I started Mind Games. And let me tell you this, Mind Games was phenomenal!!!
THE PREMISE
Fia was born with flawless instincts. Her first impulse, her gut feeling, is always exactly right. Her sister, Annie, is blind to the world around her—except when her mind is gripped by strange visions of the future.

Trapped in a school that uses girls with extraordinary powers as tools for corporate espionage, Annie and Fia are forced to choose over and over between using their abilities in twisted, unthinkable ways…or risking each other’s lives by refusing to obey.Summary from Goodreads)
THE PROS
1.) Fia was amazing. She was so strong even after all that she had been through. She was an amazing fighter and she tried so hard to protect Annie. Her relationships with the other characters were real. And even though she pretended to be strong she was still so vulnerable.
2.) The beginning. The beginning of the book easily drew me in and set the tone for the rest of the novel. It drew me in and kept me hooked.
3.) Annie. So truth is I didn't like her as much as I liked Fia, but still she was a really strong character as well. She was blind but that didn't let anything stop her. To was determined to protect Fia.
4.) The concept and execution. The concept was unique and original and White expertly wrote her story. Her writing style helped the novel flow making it impossible to put down.
5.) The fighting. All of the fight scenes were written perfectly and described in detail what was happening.
6.) Wow. I was (and still am) a bit confused about the ending. But even then that doesn't mean it wasn't awesome. Because let me say this the ending blew me away.
THE CONS
1.) I had a hard time getting through some of Annie's parts. I didn't like her as much as Fia and her story was not as action packed, so it was semi-boring. I did like the insight Annie provided.
2.) The chapters that flashed back. One second you would be reading about an action packed moment and then you flip the page in anticipation......and then you read on that it is a boring (yet insightful) flash back to some time ago. Every time that happened I was like, NOOOOOOOO!!
3.) The love interests?? They confused me. I think it was a love triangle for Fia, but Annie was excluded (That made me a little mad, she deserves a happy ending!) I felt like I knew niether of the love interests very well. And I'm really not rooting for either one.
OVERALL
I really enjoyed Mind Games except there were several things that threw me from completely falling in love with the novel. Kiersten White wrote a great novel, using a great concept, but broke the flow of her book by adding in another point of view and flashbacks. Also by introducing Fia first, she made it hard for the reader to fall in love with Annie because they had already met a super exciting character! In all though I enjoyed Mind Games and will be reading more.
WOULD I READ THIS BOOK: YES
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK: YES
WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: To people who enjoy a fast-paced, exciting read.
WILL I READ THE NEXT ONE: YES
WILL I READ MORE BY THIS AUTHOR: POSSIBLY


ZEBRA=4.5 STARS

Ruby Red

Title: Ruby Red
Author: Kerstin Gier
Genre: YA, fantasy, Sci-Fi, Time Travel, Mystery, Adventure
Series: Ruby Red Trilogy #1
Rating: Zebra
Similar to: So Close to You, Clockwise, Tempest (all time travel books)

So I had been hearing a lot about this book. Many were saying it was there favorite time travel book. So of course I was going to be interested! I love time travel. And here is what I thought:

THE PREMISE
Gwyneth Shepherd's sophisticated, beautiful cousin Charlotte has been prepared her entire life for traveling through time. But unexpectedly, it is Gwyneth who in the middle of class takes a sudden spin to a different era!

Gwyneth must now unearth the mystery of why her mother would lie about her birth date to ward off suspicion about her ability, brush up on her history, and work with Gideon—the time traveler from a similarly gifted family that passes the gene through its male line, and whose presence becomes, in time, less insufferable and more essential. Together, Gwyneth and Gideon journey through time to discover who, in the 18th century and in contemporary London, they can trust.
(Summary from Goodreads)

THE PROS
1.) The concept. I've read time travel books before, but none were similar to this idea where there were certain people born into certain families, born on a certain date could time travel. This concept was unique and very interesting.
2.) This book was translated into English and I found the translating to be really good. For the most part it flowed easily.
3.) I liked Gwen. Although at times she was a bit little kiddish, for the most part she was a strong fun main character.
4.) The other characters. For the most part I really liked them. They were all pretty fun and interesting. I did feel as though I didn't connect with most of the character, BUT I still liked their quirkiness especially Great-aunt Maddy. She was great!!!
5.) One of Gwen's first time travels. That got me so curious that even if I didn't like the book I would keep reading, just so I could find out what happened!!
6.)Great-aunt Maddy's vison. I thought that was a good touch. It adds to the Mystery of the book.
7.) I liked Gwen's talent. She could see things like ghosts that no one else could see. Very interesting.

THE CONS
1.) Gideon irked me sometimes. I thought he was a good character and all, but so many times I just wanted to punch him....
2.) I felt as though the book was only getting started. I wanted MORE action, MORE adventure. I thought the pacing was good, but the book was lacking something. What it was is unclear to me, but there was just something missing. Almost like the book was only just beginning. I did not feel content.

THE OVERALL
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It had all of the things that make a book, a good one.(action, adventure, some romance) I would not go as far as to say that I thought that this was the best time-travel book I've ever read, but this series definitely deserves recognition. Oh just to add, that ending; REALLY???? Now I'm going to have to buy the next book!!! (It wasn't exactly a cliff hanger, but something exciting happened!!)
WOULD I READ THIS BOOK: YES
WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK:YEAH
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK: YES
WILL I READ THE NEXT BOOK: SOONER OR LATER (preferably sooner)
WILL I READ MORE BY THIS AUTHOR: YES, as long as it's translated to English!!

ZEBRA=4.5 STARS

Slide

Title: Slide
Author: Jill Hathaway
Genre: YA, Mystery, Paranormal, action, adventure
Series: Slide #1
Rating: Whale
Similar titles: The Body Finder Series

I'm conflicted on my feelings about this book. It held my attention, BUT at points I hated it and at other points I loved it.
THE PREMISE
Vee Bell is certain of one irrefutable truth--her sister's friend Sophie didn't kill herself. She was murdered.

Vee knows this because she was there. Everyone believes Vee is narcoleptic, but she doesn't actually fall asleep during these episodes: When she passes out, she slides into somebody else's mind and experiences the world through that person's eyes. She's slid into her sister as she cheated on a math test, into a teacher sneaking a drink before class. She learned the worst about a supposed "friend" when she slid into her during a school dance. But nothing could have prepared Vee for what happens one October night when she slides into the mind of someone holding a bloody knife, standing over Sophie's slashed body.

Vee desperately wishes she could share her secret, but who would believe her? It sounds so crazy that she can't bring herself to tell her best friend, Rollins, let alone the police. Even if she could confide in Rollins, he has been acting distant lately, especially now that she's been spending more time with Zane.

Enmeshed in a terrifying web of secrets, lies, and danger and with no one to turn to, Vee must find a way to unmask the killer before he or she strikes again.
(Summary form Goodreads)
THE PROS
1. The concept is amazing. I thought the whole idea of sliding into someone else's mind and watching them do things that you have no control of was really cool.
2. The mystery was very interesting. I kind of knew who did it before the end. (It got kind of obvious) But the motives of the killer was really good.
3. Vee's growth. I loved seeing Vee have to deal with her never present father and comforting her sister. I also liked the growth of her gift and how she figured out that maybe some good could come of it.
4. The ending. WOW. Did not see some of that coming.
THE CONS
1. Rollins. I did not like him. He just annoyed me.
2. Zane. Same reasons I didn't like Rollins. He was annoying.
3. The cheerleader's were all the same. Underneath they may have been really nice people, but the author chose to portray them as having super evil exteriors. I hate it when author's use this stereotype. I mean yeah there are probably going to be some mean girls on every team, but a whole team made up of the meanest girls ever? I don't think so.
4. The ending. I liked it, but at the same time I was like, wow, that was a violent end.
THE OVERALL
I'm going to give this book 3.5 STARS because although it was good, it was not amazing. I think I'll give the second book a try when it comes out.
WOULD I READ THIS BOOK: YES
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK: NO
WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: DEPENDS
WILL I READ THE NEXT BOOK: YES

WHALE=3.5 STARS

Double Crossed

Title: Double Crossed
Author: Ally Carter
Genre: YA, Short Story, Cross Over, Spies, Action, Adventure
Series: Cross over of Gallagher Girls and Heist Society
Rating: Owl

THE PREMISE
Macey McHenry—Glamorous society girl or spy-in-training?

W.W. Hale V—Heir to an American dynasty or master thief?

There are two sides to every coin. Whether these two can work together is a tossup.

Born into privilege, Macey and Hale are experts at mingling with the upper class. But even if they’ve never raised an eyebrow at the glitz, neither teenager has ever felt at home with the glamour.

When Macey and Hale meet at a society gala, the party takes a dangerous turn. Suddenly they’re at the center of a hostage situation, and it’s up to them to stop the thugs from becoming hostile. Will Macey’s spy skills and Hale’s con-man ways be enough to outsmart a ruthless gang? Or will they have to seek out the ultimate inside girl to help?

The worlds of Heist Society and the Gallagher Girls collide in Ally Carter’s fast-paced, high-stakes and tantalizing new story. Get a behind the scenes glimpse as Ally delivers an irresistible thriller that is full of her signature style and savvy twists
(Summary from Goodreads)

MY OPINION
I have loved the Gallagher Girls series and the Heist society, so when I found out there was going to be a cross over short story, I was super excited. Let me tell you this, Double Crossed totally lived up to my expectations. I even forgot it was coming out today so when I got home after taking this REALLY hard midterm I turned my Kindle on and was like, OMG, it's OUT!!! Then I read and I was amazed by its awesomeness. I would totally recommend this book to fans of the Gallagher Girls series and the Heist society. And just to ad Ally Carter Rocks!!! She is one of my all-time favorite writers and if you haven't read her books, then you are missing out!!

OWL=FIVE STARS

The Dead and the Gone

 Title: The Dead and the Gone
Author: Susan Beth Pfeffer
Genre: YA, Dystopia, Post-Apocalytic, Religious
Series: Life as We Knew it #2 (there is a book after this and I also heard there will be a fourth book soon)

I really hate giving a book a bad rating. I liked the first book, maybe not the love I've felt for other books, but a general like. A like great enough for me to read the next book. *Sigh* So let me break down the book.
THE PREMISE
Susan Beth Pfeffer’s Life as We Knew It enthralled and devastated readers with its brutal but hopeful look at an apocalyptic event--an asteroid hitting the moon, setting off a tailspin of horrific climate changes. Now this harrowing companion novel examines the same events as they unfold in New York City, revealed through the eyes of seventeen-year-old Puerto Rican Alex Morales. When Alex's parents disappear in the aftermath of tidal waves, he must care for his two younger sisters, even as Manhattan becomes a deadly wasteland, and food and aid dwindle.

With haunting themes of family, faith, personal change, and courage, this powerful new novel explores how a young man takes on unimaginable responsibilities.
(Summary from Goodreads)
THE PROS
1. The writing style. She's a good writer.
....That's all I got. So yeah
THE CONS dun, dun, dunnnn
1. Religious issues. Okay so I'm an atheist, but I totally respect other peoples views and it's interesting to see how other people view life, even though I don't see it the same way. So yeah, reading a bit about religion doesn't bother me, but when the MC has internal monologues A LOT that bugs me. I get that this character is religious and it's a huge part of his life, but does that view have to be the reason why for EVERYTHING!! I mean really everything he was like I'm going to do this because that's what God would want.
2. Alex. He annoyed the heck out of me. Like stop feeling sorry for yourself and deal. And the whole thing with his sisters annoyed me. Yeah I get you're oldest, but get a grip! Both of your sisters are capable people!! For example he sent one of his sisters away without even telling her until minutes before.
OVERALL
So I read this book a while ago.  So I definitely didn't include everything, but I did explain my major issues.
WOULD I READ THE NEXT BOOK: Yes, I already have because I was curious and I didn't really like that one either because of the ending.
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK(again): NO, I didn't find it worth the money
WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: NO, unless it was to a majorly religious person, but even then...
AM I HEAD OVER HEELS IN LOVE THIS BOOK: NOPE, as I already explained, not my thing.
MY RATING: After much consideration I've decided to raise the book up to two stars, because it wasn't that bad, just not my thing I guess.
Fav quote: " "Two Oreos," Alex said. "Let's live dangerously."
HAHAHA, that part made me laugh and also helped me understand their situation.
So done writing this terrible review, maybe I should go write a positive review to offset the negative... =D

STARFISH=TWO STARS

Hex Hall

Title: Hex Hall
Author: Rachel Hawkins
Genre: YA, Fantasy, Action, Adventure, Epicness, Mystery
Series: Hex Hall #1
Rating: Owl
Recommend to 12 and up.

 This book has only one direction to go, IT WAS AWESOME. Ever since I read Harry Potter I've been searching for another magical book and this book definitely was one of the best I've read.
THE PREMISE
Three years ago, Sophie Mercer discovered that she was a witch. It's gotten her into a few scrapes. Her non-gifted mother has been as supportive as possible, consulting Sophie's estranged father--an elusive European warlock--only when necessary. But when Sophie attracts too much human attention for a prom-night spell gone horribly wrong, it's her dad who decides her punishment: exile to Hex Hall, an isolated reform school for wayward Prodigium, a.k.a. witches, faeries, and shapeshifters.
By the end of her first day among fellow freak-teens, Sophie has quite a scorecard: three powerful enemies who look like supermodels, a futile crush on a gorgeous warlock, a creepy tagalong ghost, and a new roommate who happens to be the most hated person and only vampire student on campus. Worse, Sophie soon learns that a mysterious predator has been attacking students, and her only friend is the number-one suspect.
As a series of blood-curdling mysteries starts to converge, Sophie prepares for the biggest threat of all: an ancient secret society determined to destroy all Prodigium, especially her.
(Summary from Goodreads)The PROS
1. I loved the Characters. They were all well developed and fun.
2. The mystery was good. There were some obvious things, but it was still a great mystery.
3. Archer. What can I say I love him!
4. The magic. Who doesn't like magic!
THE CONS
1. Sophie was a little bit blind and didn't really see what was right in front of her. It didn't detract from the book, but it bugged me a bit.
OVERALL
This book was fantastic, with a great amount of sarcasm, humor , action, and adventure. I really liked this book and it will definitely make my list of top reads.
WOULD I READ THIS BOOK: YES
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK: TOTALLY
AM I HEAD OVER HEELS IN LOVE WITH THIS BOOK: UMM... OBVIOUSLY
WOULD I READ THE NEXT BOOK: ALREADY HAVE (I'm behind on my reviews)
WOULD I READ OTHER BOOKS BY THIS AUTHOR: YEP
Fav quote: " "You know," someone said off to my left, "I usually find a blocking spell to be a lot more effective than yelling 'Bad Dog,' but maybe that's just me."
Gah I love this book

OWL=FIVE STARS

The Always War

Title: The Always War
Author: Margaret Peterson Haddix
Genre: YA/MG, Post-Apocalyptic, Dystopian, Adventure, Action
Series: Stand alone
Recommendation: 10 and up
Rating: Horse
Similar titles: Legend, Enclave

So I read this book a while ago and really did not like it, so today when I was reviewing my recent reads, I decided to come back to this book and find out why I didn't like it. So let me begin by breaking it down for you.

THE PREMISE
Gideon has come back from a horrible war. DUN, DUN, DUNNNN Tessa was his old neighbor and she admired him. When Gideon runs away from receiving a huge award, Tessa, because she knows him so well, gives chase. They go on an adventure and find a girl stowed away, Dek. They then find out the terrible secret to the 75 year war!

MY THOUGHTS
Instead of giving you the Pros and Cons like I normally do I'm just going to throw my thoughts out there. I've liked Margret Peterson Haddix for, like, ever. She's awesome; I mean have you read her Shadow Children series?! So I read those books in elementary school/middle school and loved them and just to clarify I still love them! So when I heard she was coming out with a YA novel I was like YEAH!!!:) (I would have read it even if it was middle grade. I think her Missing series is middle grade and it's awesome, too) But anyways, I start reading. It was a short book or so it seemed. I started to think about why I didn't like the book. I guess it was because the characters were flat and it was rushed feeling. Like when you're moving fast in a car and the scenery begins to blur together, that's how I felt. In all her other books I've connected with her characters and felt like I actually knew them, but here they were names. I could not associate a meaning to them. *SIGH* I WAS DISAPPOINTED. The ending was startling, it just ended. I felt like I was reading a sentence, but there was no period. I thought maybe it's because her other books that I've read have been series, but then I went back and reread the first Shadow Children and Missing books and felt depth to the characters in the first couple of pages. I just don't know what was up with this book! Maybe she could have tried for a bit of romance between Gideon and Tessa? I just don't know anymore!!
WOULD I READ THIS BOOK: MAYBE, I don't know, I'm confused now.
WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: I STILL DON"T KNOW, AHHH!!
AM I HEAD OVER HEELS IN LOVE WITH THIS BOOK: THE BOOK, NO, THE AUTHOR< YES
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK: NO, I'D GET FROM A LIBRARY,MAYBE
WOULD I READ THE NEXT BOOK: UMMMM, YEAH, I'M CURIOUS NOW
WOUDL I READ OTHER BOOKS FROM THIS AUTHOR: TOO LATE TO STOP ME :)
Fav quote: "She remembered the delicate, dew-covered spider web she'd seen that morning. She knew the dew would be long gone by now, but the spider web itself had been like a work of art." This was just a great observation!!

If my confusion on this book ever clears, I will edit this review...

*EDIT*After thinking for like two minutes I realized this book was a lot like Legend by Marie Lu, which BTW was a great book

HORSE=THREE STARS

Unearthly

 Title: Unearthly
Author: Cynthia Hand
Genre: YA, Fantasy, Angels, Action, Adventure
Series: Unearthly #1
Rating: Owl
Similar books: Angelfall

WOW, that was the first thought I had after finishing this book. This book was amazing, like blow me away AMAZING. I had heard A LOT of amazing things about this book and I kept thinking I really need to read this. I mean when a series gets popular and tons of people are talking about it and you're like, wait what are you talking about, it makes sense to pick up the book and read it, EVEN if its not really your thing. The whole fallen angels thing has never really interested me (although recently I have been reading a lot of angel books) I've read City of Bones and Embrace and didn't really like either of them. I also read Hush, Hush, which was pretty good and then I read this book. I can safely say this is the first angel book that I thought was absolutely AWESOME!! And here's why.
THE PREMISE
In the beginning, there's a boy standing in the trees . . . .

Clara Gardner has recently learned that she's part angel. Having angel blood run through her veins not only makes her smarter, stronger, and faster than humans (a word, she realizes, that no longer applies to her), but it means she has a purpose, something she was put on this earth to do. Figuring out what that is, though, isn't easy.

Her visions of a raging forest fire and an alluring stranger lead her to a new school in a new town. When she meets Christian, who turns out to be the boy of her dreams (literally), everything seems to fall into place and out of place at the same time. Because there's another guy, Tucker, who appeals to Clara's less angelic side.

As Clara tries to find her way in a world she no longer understands, she encounters unseen dangers and choices she never thought she'd have to make between honesty and deceit, love and duty, good and evil. When the fire from her vision finally ignites, will Clara be ready to face her destiny?(Summary from Goodreads)
THE PROS
1. I love how Clara already knows what she is. In so many books I've read recently you meet the protagonist and they have no idea what they are and then some hot guy or super magical being comes and is like (imagine this in a deep voice) Hello person you are a super powerful being sent to save all of human kind.* and then the MC is always like "NO, that's impossible, you're insane." And then suddenly they believe it all and fall in love with someone. Well Unearthly was wayyy different!
2. Tucker and Clara. I love these two together. I especially love Tucker. I mean COME ON, he is HILARIOUS!!
3. The concept. Cynthia Hand took a well known often used concept and managed to add some spice to it! I LOVE WHEN AUTHORS DO THAT!!!
4. The rest of the characters. All of the characters played a role in the book. There were no characters that were fluff. Everyone was there for a reason.
5. The writing. I know that I say this a lot, but I really do love most authors unique writing style, but Cynthia Hand took it further and gave Clara such a strong, easily relatable voice! :)
6. The setting. Okay I love when books take place in the suburbs or the country. I mean really I find the city to be a bit boring.
THE CONS
1. I felt like not everything was all tied up. I know there are another two books, but I just felt confused during a couple parts. Not a lot, and definitely not enough to distract from the rest of the story.
OVERALL
Okay, you REALLY need to read this book, this series in fact. Don't keep yourself in the dark any longer! :)
WOULD I READ THIS BOOK: YES!!!
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK: YEP!
WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: THERE IS NO STOPPING ME :)
WILL I READ THE NEXT BOOK: PLANNING ON IT
WILL I READ OTHER BOOKS BY THIS AUTHOR: YES
AM I HEAD OVER HEELS IN LOVE WITH THIS BOOK: IT WOULD BE HARD NOT TO BE!!!

OWL=FIVE STARS

Perfect Scoundrels

Title: Perfect Scoundrels
Author: Ally Carter
Genre: YA, Spies, Action, Adventure
Recommended: 12 and up
Series: Heist Society #3
Rating: Owl
Similar books: The first two in this series, Gallagher Girls Series, Investigating the Hottie

This book was amazing as every single one of Ally Carter's books have been. Perfect Scoundrel's has lived up to all of my expectations.
THE PREMISE
Katarina Bishop and W.W. Hale the fifth were born to lead completely different lives: Kat comes from a long, proud line of love able criminal masterminds, while Hale is the scion of one of the most seemingly perfect dynasties in the world. If their families have one thing in common, it's that they both know how to stay under the radar while getting-or stealing-whatever they want. No matter the risk, the Bishops can always be counted on, but in Hale's family, all bets are off when money is on the line. When Hale unexpectedly inherits his grandmother's billion dollar corporation, he quickly learns that there's no place for Kat and their old heists in his new role. But Kat won't let him go that easily, especially after she gets tipped off that his grandmother's will might have been altered in an elaborate con to steal the company's fortune. So instead of being the heir-this time, Hale might be the mark. Forced to keep a level head as she and her crew fight for one of their own, Kat comes up with an ambitious and far-reaching plan that only the Bishop family would dare attempt. To pull it off, Kat is prepared to do the impossible, but first, she has to decide if she's willing to save her boyfriend's company if it means losing the boy.
(Summary from Goodreads)THE PROS
1. Kat as always was amazing. She is fierce yet vulnerable and I just love her to pieces.
2. Kat and Hale. I love these two together. They really are the best.
3. The Heist. This heist just blew my mind. How Ally Carter comes up with these ideas is beyond me.
4. The rest of the crew. Just gotta lobe them especially Angus and Hammish.
5. The cover!!!! Hale is in her glasses!!! I just love this cover!!!!!
THE CONS
1. I felt like there wasn't enough Nick in this book and I really missed some.of the funnier moments.
2. Hale annoyed me a tiny bit but I get why he was portrayed that way and he totally made it up in the end.
OVERALL
Okay I know that's a pretty short review, but I really love this series. Ally Carter is an amazing writer who is definitely going places. Personally I'm hoping for a movie! =D So if you haven't read this series yet, WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! Drop everything and read!
WOULD I READ THIS BOOK: YESSSSS!!!!!!
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK: YEP!!!!!!!
WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: YES TO LOVERS OF SPIES AND AWESOMENESS!!!
WILL I READ THE NEXT BOOK: YESSSSS!!!!!
WOULD I READ OTHER BOOKS BY THIS AUTHOR: YES!!

OWL=FIVE STARS

Investigating the Hottie

Title: Investigating the Hottie
Author Juli Alexander
Genre: YA, Spies, Mystery, Adventure, Romance,
Series: Next book is Undercover with the Hottie
Recommended: 11, 12,13
Rating: Zebra
Similar books: The Gallagher Girl Series, Heist Society Series
When I found out that Juli Alexander had written another book AND it was free on my kindle the other day, I was psyched. I have read some of her other books, (Stirring Up Trouble, My life as the ugly stepsister, and the Karma beat.)and let me say this they were all pretty awesome. Be forewarned, these are books that are targeted for pre to early teens. Although I'm in High school and I still think they're pretty awesome. These books are great for a light read, but I'm digressing AGAIN. So, here's my breakdown of the book.
THE PREMISE
Peterson. Amanda Peterson. When my life suddenly turns into the Princess Diaries meets Mission Impossible, can I do in a week what I haven’t managed to do in all my fifteen years—reel in a hottie?

Investigating the Hottie is a completed young adult romance. When Amanda spends a week with her aunt, Christie, she learns that her aunt is a spy. Christie admits that Amanda has security clearance and has already started her training. When her aunt asks her to investigate a teenage hacker, Amanda thinks that spending time with a nerd should be doable despite her social ineptitude. Unfortunately for Amanda, the hacker is a hottie.(Summary from Goodreads)

THE PROS
1. The humor. I love how Christie and Nic were always arguing. They had a great love/hate relationship.
2. Amanda's character. I love how she was always trying to figure everything out from her aunt and Nic tho the case to how she felt about Will.
3. Spies. Really who doesn't love spies. I'm beng serious, who doesn't like spies? I'd like to know why.
4. The lack of art talent. Non-Artists must band together.
5. The ending. I love sweet endings.
THE CONS
1. Kind of an obvious ending, but hey it was sweet.
OVERALL
There was an ending that could be open to a sequel, but it all depends on whether the author choses to take that route. I would definitly read the sequel. So in all it was a light quick read with a fun adventure and a sweet romance for younger readers. Definitly not a let down from her other books.
WOULD I READ THIS BOOK: YES
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK: YES (Even though I got it when it was free, it would have been worth my money!)
WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: YES, TO YOUNGER READERS
WOULD I READ THE NEXT BOOK: YEP
WOULD I READ OTHER BOOKS BY THIS AUTHOR: YEAH, SHE'S GREAT.
AM I HEAD OVER HEELS IN LOVE WITH THIS BOOK: I LIKED IT AND IT WAS A REALLY GOOD BOOK
Fav quote: ""Are you saying that I need bigger boobs if I'm going to be a spy?" Her eyes widened in horror. "No. Not at all. We just need extra room for the tracking devices, unless you want them implanted in your skin. It's up to you."" HAHA, That part made me laugh!!

ZEBRA=4.5 STARS

Innocent Darkness

Title: Innocent Darkness
Author: Suzanne Lazear
Genre: YA, Fantasy, Romance, Steampunk(not really), adventure
Series: The Aether Chronicles
Recommended for 14 and up
Rating: Horse
After finishing this book I went and got a bowl of Cheerios and thought long and hard about what I really thought about this book. When I first read the blurb, I was excited, I mean it's Steampunk! What kind of person doesn't like steampunk?! Then there were faeries, I was practically jumping up and down. On top of all that the cover is AMAZING and the heroine sounded capable and strong. But from there it went down-hill.
THE PREMISEWish. Love. Desire. Live.

Sixteen-year-old Noli Braddock's hoyden ways land her in an abusive reform school far from home. On mid-summer's eve she wishes to be anyplace but that dreadful school. A mysterious man from the Realm of Faerie rescues her and brings her to the Otherworld, only to reveal that she must be sacrificed, otherwise, the entire Otherworld civilization will perish.
(Summary from Goodreads)
THE PROS
1. I liked the beginning. It started off with a crash, literally. So that was definitely good.
2. I liked V. He was pretty awesome.
3. The concept. I LOVED what the author had going on. It started off pretty good.
4. The cover. I liked the cover, but it doesn't really seem to fit the book.
5. Noli's name. I just thought it was funny, but I liked it.
THE CONS
1. The Hunter. Okay his name is some thing that is like impossible to spell so I'm not gonna bother trying. I hated this dude. I mean seriously what is up with him being in the love triangle. (It kind of reminded me of the love thing in Shatter Me. With Warner being insanely evil and Adam being awesome! Except the hunter guy is creepy.)
2. Noli's school. Ummmm. I highly doubt that kind of torture was ever condoned. I mean it was pretty creepy and somehow it's supposed to be normal in this society. NOOOOO, it's supposed to seem kind of like 1901, right, but with that torture going on, it seemed way to Barbaric.
3. The Execution. So as I've said before I love the concept, but the author didn't do a very good execution of it. The Steampunk aspect just faded out and the Otherworld thing began to annoy me.
4. No twists. I could predict what was going to happen from the start. THAT IS ABSOLUTLY NO FUN!!
5. The ending. REALLY?! Come on that was just ridiculous. :O Grrrrr. It made me MAD!!
6. Noli cried A LOT and here I thought she was going to be strong! I got sick of her neediness by the end.
OVERALL
I wanted to like this book, and I did like parts of it. I think I thought that I was going to LOVE this book because I've never read bad steampunk. (ex. Leviathan, The Girl in the Steel Corset, Incarceron) So I think I was just expecting more. I kind of feels like false advertising because the description is of a steampunk book, when it's more of a fantasy.
WOULD I READ THIS BOOK: PERHAPS
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK: NO, BUT I'D GET IT FROM A LIBRARY
WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: DEPENDS, if the person is more into faeries than steampunk then yes.
WILL I READ THE NEXT BOOK: YES
WOULD I READ OTHER BOOKS BY THIS AUTHOR: YEAH, I THINK SO.

HORSE=THREE STARS

Prodigy

I have been waiting for a year to read this book and then what do I do? I forgot to pre-order it and then even worse I forgot to buy it the day it came out. I didn't even remember it was coming out until 11:00 on January 29th and by that time I knew I couldn't buy it because I knew that I would never be able to put it down. And I was right, the next day I got home from school and read the whole book in one sitting. And let me tell you this, THIS BOOK WAS AMAZING!! So here are my thoughts... THE P...moreTitle: ThujuhguibTitle: Prodigy Author: Marie Lu Genre: YA, Dystopia, Post Apocalyptic, Romance, Adventure Series: Legend #2 Rating: Owl I have been waiting for a year to read this book and then what do I do? I forgot to pre-order it and then even worse I forgot to buy it the day it came out. I didn't even remember it was coming out until 11:00 on January 29th and by that time I knew I couldn't buy it because I knew that I would never be able to put it down. And I was right, the next day I got home from school and read the whole book in one sitting. And let me tell you this, THIS BOOK WAS AMAZING!! So here are my thoughts... THE PREMISE June and Day arrive in Vegas just as the unthinkable happens: the Elector Primo dies, and his son Anden takes his place. With the Republic edging closer to chaos, the two join a group of Patriot rebels eager to help Day rescue his brother and offer passage to the Colonies. They have only one request—June and Day must assassinate the new Elector. It’s their chance to change the nation, to give voice to a people silenced for too long. But as June realizes this Elector is nothing like his father, she’s haunted by the choice ahead. What if Anden is a new beginning? What if revolution must be more than loss and vengeance, anger and blood—what if the Patriots are wrong? (Summary from Goodreads) THE PROS 1. The characters got even better. Every character developed and you get to see a whole different side to them. 2. The plot. Legend was amazing and held me to the end, but Prodigy had so much more. Prodigy had a great concept. June is on the inside of the Republic and she is there for one reason and that's to kill the Elector. Day is dealing with his own problems with being known as the Republican lover in the Patriot base. And both have some pretty awesome adventures. 3. A lot of times the second book is like a filler book, BUT PRODIGY IS NOT. So much happens in this book and it is amazing. 4. The ending. WOW, just WOW. I can't even talk about it. I cried, which is so unlike me. THE CONS 1. The ending. Way to leave me hanging!! That ending although spectacular and unexpected made me think, I HAVE TO WAIT A YEAR TO FIND OUT WHAT HAPPENS?! OVERALL I love this series so much!!I can't believe that now I have to wait a whole year for the next one. Prodigy is definitely worth my time and money and if you haven't read Legend yet, then WHAT ARE YOU DOING. This series is EPIC!! WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK: YES WOULD I READ THIS BOOK: TRY AND STOP ME WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: YEP!!! WILL I READ THE NEXT BOOK: YESSSSSSSSSSSS!!! WILL I READ OTHER BOOKS BY THIS AUTHOR: YEAH :) AM I HEAD OVER HEELS IN LOVE WITH THIS BOOK: YES, I LOVE IT SO MUCH!!! OWL=FIVE STARS

Being Jamie Baker

Title:Being Jaimie Baker
Author: Kelly Oram
Genre: YA, Sci-Fi, Action, Adventure, Super powers, Romance
Series: Jamie Baker #1
Rating: Owl
SEE THE TRAILER: I love this trailer, it is possibly the best ever!
Let me begin with this, I LOVED THIS BOOK!! This was the first book I've read by Kelly Oram and I have since read others! I really liked this book, Like everything about. I'm one of those people who disects books. I study all the different aspects and the Pros and Cons. And I normally always find flaws! (What can I say, I'm critical) Because of the complete awesomeness of this book my review format will deviate from the norm.
THE PREMISE
Jamie Baker is an ice queen because of an unfortunate incident involving power lines and toxic waste. No one talks to her or tries to help her out. So when Ryan Miller, the most popular boy at Rocklin High, asks Jamie to kiss him for a bet, both of their live are changed! Jamie must learn to trust and Ryan must earn her trust. Sounds good right?
MY THOUGHTS
I found nothing wrong with this book and it will definitely be one that I will read time and time again. The characters are interesting, they have depth. Every charater seems to have something to hide. I loved the dialogue. Ryan and Jamie's conversation kept me laughing which wasn't such a good thing because I was up at three in the mourning reading this and my parents would not have been happy! (Thank god they didn't wake up:) ) I really liked this book. Kelly Oram stunned me with her humor and great characters and made me want more!!
WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK: WITHOUT A DOUBT
WOULD I BUY THIS BOOK: YES WORTH MY MONEY
AM I HEAD OVER HEELS IN LOVE WITH THIS BOOK: UMMM..... DID YOU READ MY REVIEW, I'M NORMALLY NOT SO NICE!!
WOULD I READ THE NEXT BOOK: YES, 2014 is so long away!!!
WOULD I READ MORE BY THIS AUTHOR: YEAH she's awesome!!
Fav quote: ""Here's the thing," Ryan finally began. "If I can't get you to kiss me by the end of lunch, then I have to let Mike take Becky Eastman to homecoming, and I already made dinner reservations at her favorite restaurant.""

OWL=FIVE STARS