Amy & Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson
Synopsis:"Amy Curry is not looking forward to her summer. Her mother decided to move across the country and now it's Amy's responsibility to get their car from California to Connecticut. The only problem is, since her father died in a car accident, she isn't ready to get behind the wheel. Enter Roger. An old family friend, he also has to make the cross-country trip - and has plenty of baggage of his own. The road home may be unfamiliar - especially with their friendship venturing into uncharted territory - but together, Amy and Roger will figure out how to map their way."
Review: Morgan Matson is brilliant! I knew as soon as I finished Since You've Been Gone that I would love everything and anything she wrote, (spoiler alert I was right). Amy & Roger's is such a classic yet unique young adult contemporary novel and I love it!. Amy has a complicated past and I loved how Morgan Matson slowly reveals in in pieces as Amy accepts her past throughout the trip. Amy learns more about herself and deals with her path as the trip progresses and as the reader her past also becomes clearer. As Amy becomes more and more ready to show who she is the novel reflects that with more pieces of her past. This element was probably my favorite and it definitely built this suspense around Amy's past and what she had to learn to deal with. One thing I really loved about this book was that Amy and Charlie weren't that close. I have a twin sister and we aren't the kind of twins you'd usually read about where we do everything together and stuff like that so I loved that this novel showed a difference. Although we aren't as seperate as Amy and Charlie the inclusion of this separation was really realistic and I brought more depth behind the characters. Although I loved this book there was one thing that I didn't particularly feel was right. The romance. This is such a strange thing for me because I pretty much enjoy all romance even the cliche ones, but the romance and the relationship between Amy and Rodger felt impossible especially since they had only met each other for a week. Though I was glad that the ending was somewhat more realistic to the situation. Overall, Morgan Matson did a brilliant job and this classic YA contemporary novel is a great, quick read for all! Cover: ★★★☆☆ Favorite Quote(s): "It shouldn't have come as a surprise. I'd found that if you pushed people away hard enough, they tended to go." "And really, it's not about the destination. It's getting there that's the good part." "Wandering is encouraged."
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The Fallen Kingdom by Elizabeth May
Synopsis:"The long-awaited final book in the Falconer trilogy is an imaginative tour-de-force that will thrill fans of the series. Aileana Kameron, resurrected by ancient fae magic, returns to the world she once knew with no memory of her past and with dangerous powers she struggles to control. Desperate to break the curse that pits two factions of the fae against each other in a struggle that will decide the fate of the human and fae worlds, her only hope is hidden in an ancient book guarded by the legendary Morrigan, a faery of immense power and cruelty. To save the world and the people she loves, Aileana must learn to harness her dark new powers even as they are slowly destroying her. Packed with immersive detail, action, romance, and fae lore, and publishing simultaneously in the UK, The Fallen Kingdom brings the Falconer's story to an epic and unforgettable conclusion."
Review: Warning! Spoilers for The Falconer or The Vanishing Throne may be present! This series has butchered my heart and I still love it. I'm so glad I was able to have this final book because I honestly would not have been able to wait after The Vanishing Throne. This series is not one I'll ever forget (even if a fairy comes and takes away my memory). By this book there was no doubt that Kiaran had taken over Aileana's heart, but in the meantime he has also taken over mine and that is why I was crushed over and over and every word hurt, but make me continue anyways. The romance in this novel is as breathtaking as ever and I loved it as much as I can now that my heart has been shredded over and over again. I was so overwhelmed with Kiaran in the first two books, but this book has strengthened that love for him as well as formed new loves for other characters. Some were obvious and filled with kindness, Derrick, while others even took me for surprise as I realized I no longer hated them. Just as the emotions are played with for the characters, mine were strewn all over the place. At some points I was so filled with emotion I couldn't stop reading, only for my addicted heart to yearn for the pages for a couple of minutes and go straight back into getting my emotions thrashed. This book is probably my favorite of the three and its plot and action is definitely a major reason for this. I thought the first two books were filled with action, which they were, but this book had even more and weaved it so perfectly with the emotional state of the reader that all I can say is that I was simply overwhelmed. The plot twists were done expertly and each event had me pulled deeper into the story and into their world. I couldn't stop when I started with the first page of The Falconer and by this point I was speeding through while trying to slowly savour the last novel. Now that it's over I almost can't believe it and will definitely be rereading thing (after my heart heals) to just live in this amazing story a while longer. Throughout the trilogy Elizabeth May was stunning. Even at the darkest of times she found ways to insert humor and hope. Her trilogy and this book especially taught me that good and bad aren't distinct and that good and bad is really all relative. Good and bad depends on the perspective and love can conquer more than anyone might imagine. I recommend this book to absolutely EVERYONE because I'm evil (because this book really did break my heart) and kind (because this book was amazing) and I want everyone else to know what the words in this book. (If you haven't go and check out The Falconer and The Vanishing Throne!!) Cover: ★★★★★ (the entire trilogy had such amazing covers!) Favorite Quote(s): "It takes so much bravery to lose everything and still give so much of yourself." "Maybe it's compassion that separates us from monsters." "We will always try to play the hero before we become the villain." "Forgiveness isn't something given. It's something earned." The Vanishing Throne by Elizabeth May
Synopsis: "Everything she loved is gone.
Trapped. Aileana Kameron, the Falconer, disappeared through the fae portal she was trying to close forever. Now she wakes in an alien world of mirrors, magic, and deception—a prisoner of the evil fae Lonnrach, who has a desperate and deadly plan for his new captive. Tortured. Time after agonizing time Lonnrach steals Aileana’s memories, searching for knowledge to save his world. Just when she’s about to lose all hope, Aileana is rescued by an unexpected ally and returns home, only to confront a terrifying truth. The city of Edinburgh is now an unrecognizable wasteland. And Aileana knows the devastation is all her fault. Transformed. The few human survivors are living in an underground colony, in an uneasy truce with a remnant of the fae. It is a fragile alliance, but an even greater danger awaits: the human and fae worlds may disappear forever. Only Aileana can save both worlds, but in order to do so she must awaken her latent Falconer powers. And the price of doing so might be her life…" Review: WARNING: Spoilers for the first book The Falconer, may be present! Elizabeth May has done it again! The Vanishing Throne was AMAZING, unique, and brought a new flavor to the table compared to The Falconer. I felt like there was more romance, action, and world exploring than ever before and I was constantly on edge. I enjoyed every bit of this novel, but I enjoyed the plot and romance of this novel the most. Kiaran is not the typical sort of YA bad boy, but he definitely brought a different sort of character to the story and reminded me of Wolf from the Lunar Chronicles mixed with the Beast from Beauty and the Beast. That and some extraordinary fae magic definitely had everyone swooning over Kiaran's relationship with Aileana. They may as well be my OTP. I can't help but love their love. SO MUCH happens in this novel. It continues right where The Falconer ended and before anyone can blink everything is moving and you are swept up into it all. As usual, no spoilers, but I really have to say that the amount of things that happens in this novel is INSANE and had me reading more intently than ever. However, I will say that the ending is a cliffhanger so be prepared and grab the third and final book as soon as you can because I really cannot stop reading. There are some familiar names and some new ones, but both are incredible and I have, without a doubt, fell in love with some of the new characters as well as strengthened my love for some of the previous characters. The world Elizabeth May created is something I am so glad this novel gets to go deeper into because it's just so INTERESTING and filled with so much history behind each thing that I can't wait to learn. Unlike The Falconer, The Vanishing Throne doesn't feel as much like historical fiction anymore due to the circumstances of magic and fae, but the fantasy element is much stronger and I have to say... I don't mind, because if you know me I love fantasy! PS: Elizabeth May is AMAZING at describing scents so if any bookish candle makers need some inspo! Definately check out this series! PPS: I also LOVE the Notes and Observations that are at the end! If you haven't read The Falconer, go and pick it up! If you have than be prepared for a wild ride for The Vanishing Throne because its amazing and will no doubt have you reading intently! Cover: ★★★★★ Favorite Quote(s): " 'In the end, we are all the stag,' " "The truth is, memories weigh a great dea. Each one bends your bones a little more until the heft of them wears you down. Now I know that some scars go so deep that they never fade." The Inexplicable Logic of My Life by Benjamin Alire Sáenz
*I received an ARC of The Inexplicable Logic of my Life from Clarion Books through Netgalley, but this in no way affected my honest opinion about the book.*
Synopsis: "The first day of senior year: Everything is about to change. Until this moment, Sal has always been certain of his place with his adoptive gay father and their loving Mexican-American family. But now his own history unexpectedly haunts him, and life-altering events force him and his best friend, Samantha, to confront issues of faith, loss, and grief. Suddenly Sal is throwing punches, questioning everything, and discovering that he no longer knows who he really is—but if Sal’s not who he thought he was, who is he?" Review: This book came into my life at the perfect moment, and because it did I will always have a place for it in my heart. There is too much to say without giving stuff away, BUT I will insert the spoiler free part here and I will give plenty of warning when the spoilers do come up! Don't worry I would never want to spoil you for this book! Anyways let me continue. This novel has touched my soul so deeply that I know I will never forget it. This book helped me grow as a person and many tears were involved,( but also greatly appreciated.) This book just came into my life at the right moment, and for a long time I couldn't pick it up as it was too similar and emotional for me. Although I have not yet read Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe, I definitely plan on doing so soon, because the writing of this novel was beautiful and so moving, not to mention such well portrayed characters and an emotion filled plot. WARNING PLEASE STOP HERE IF YOU WANT TO STAY SPOILER FREE THANKS ... are you still reading ... last warning ok here we go! Mima is by far one of my favorite characters. As I began to read this novel I was immediately touched, but I actually stopped reading this book for a good portion of time as my family experienced things similar to Sally (can I call him that?). My grandma was diagnosed with breast cancer, but luckily, with surgery, the tumor was removed and everything was ok, but later she developed a kidney issue that sent my entire family into a frantic mess. That was when I set the book down. However, when I was able to pick the book up again, I had a newfound connection for Sally and Mima's relationship, though tragically they did not get much time and luckily I hope to have plenty more and my grandma is on the road to recovery. Due to what has happened recently, this novel has touched my soul and I truly will never forget it. In addition, I cried more times with book than possibly any other book I have ever read, and that's saying something. Now away from the sad and to the happier side of the novel! Sammy and Sally are the best of friends and have a level of connection that is definitely like having a close sibling. In fact, I considered them sibling from the moment they interacted in the novel. Their understanding for one another is so deep and truly beautiful as is with Fito! I loved Fito! Such a great guy and deserving of so much love! (ps: I wished to hug him many times while reading.) In addition, some amazing things this novel includes are TWO absolutely intricate and lovely gay characters. They were both two strong, independent, and intelligent men and I'm so glad for more characters like Fito and Sal's dad. With that being said I really plan on reading Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe. I would really like to thank Netgalley and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Children's Book Group for making this read accessible to me! It was a journey and experience I will hold dearly forever. Cover: ★★★★★ Favorite Quote(s): "Maybe I'd always had the wrong idea as to who I really was." "Words existed only in theory. And then one ordinary day you ran into a word that existed only in theory. And you met it face to face." "We're not pigs, you know. We're not supposed to live in our own sh*t." The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon
Synopsis: "The year is 2059. Nineteen-year-old Paige Mahoney is working in the criminal underworld of Scion London, based at Seven Dials, employed by a man named Jaxon Hall. Her job: to scout for information by breaking into people's minds. For Paige is a dreamwalker, a clairvoyant and, in the world of Scion, she commits treason simply by breathing. It is raining the day her life changes for ever. Attacked, drugged and kidnapped, Paige is transported to Oxford – a city kept secret for two hundred years, controlled by a powerful, otherworldly race. Paige is assigned to Warden, a Rephaite with mysterious motives. He is her master. Her trainer. Her natural enemy. But if Paige wants to regain her freedom she must allow herself to be nurtured in this prison where she is meant to die. The Bone Season introduces a compelling heroine and also introduces an extraordinary young writer, with huge ambition and a teeming imagination. Samantha Shannon has created a bold new reality in this riveting debut."
Review: You know one of those books where you pick it up and it NEVER GOES DOWN. Yep, that was The Bone Season for me. Let me tell you why:
Everything was amazing, but out of it all I really admire the world Samantha created. Every little piece is so detailed and thought out. They even have intricate histories and backstories that you learn along the way. She creates a gorgeous map at the start of the novel and a glossary of amazing vocabulary at the end (which you also pick up throughout the story). The magic is also INCREDIBLY UNIQUE. After a while it may seem like you understand the magic world, but let me tell you now, The Bone Season is a whole new type of magic. The plot is also FANTABULOUS. (yes, this book requires me making up words because words can't seem to cover how great it is). There was a bit of a Hunger Games/Divergent vibe, but if you didn't like those series don't throw this series up yet! It had its own twists and I would definitely say this read was more than worth it. Although the plot didn't give me as intense emotions (as in instead of bawling I was shedding tears) as other novels, it definitely brought me throughout a huge range of feels. Samantha is definitely a talented writer and this novel had me completely gripped. I am absolutely ecstatic about this series and I would recommend this to any young adult or fantasy lovers! (Now I'm off to read The Mime Order!) Cover: ★★★★☆ Favorite Quote(s): "We are the minority the world does not accept. ... We look like everyone else. Sometimes we act like everyone else. In many ways we are like everyone else." "Not all of us know what we are. Some of us die without ever knowing." "The sky was sunset gold, the moon a smirk of white." "In the end you'll just stop trying. She was wrong." The Mime Order by Samantha Shannon
Synopsis: "Paige Mahoney has escaped the brutal prison camp of Sheol I, but her problems have only just begun: many of the survivors are missing and she is the most wanted person in London...
As Scion turns its all-seeing eye on the dreamwalker, the mime-lords and mime-queens of the city's gangs are invited to a rare meeting of the Unnatural Assembly. Jaxon Hall and his Seven Seals prepare to take centre stage, but there are bitter fault lines running through the clairvoyant community and dark secrets around every corner. Then the Rephaim begin crawling out from the shadows. But where is Warden? Paige must keep moving, from Seven Dials to Grub Street to the secret catacombs of Camden, until the fate of the underworld can be decided. " Review: This novel is the SECOND book in its series to stay spoiler free check out my review of the first book: The Bone Season. If you have read my first review then you may already realize how much I love this series. In that case, let it be no surprise that I loved this book just as much if not more! The Mime Order absolutely blew my mind away. With a strong description of the world in the first novel, this following novel is finally able to get things happen, resulting in an AMAZING plot. Not only that, but the entire thing is an absolutely fantastic read due to the elegantly written novel. Now that you have read The Bone Season I can include more about the romance in this series! Ahh... Warden. He is a pretty stereotypical untouchable sort of YA boyfriend, but in many ways he is also quite unique. Warden himself is a standard type of YA boyfriend. Which category? Warden would go under the bad boy with a dark past that a girl shouldn't be dating because of their status' or in this case, being different races (not like ethnicity, but more as in not the human race...). However, the relationship between Warden and Paige is unique to others. Paige is able to showcase her strength and she is definitely wise beyond her years. However, overall Paige definitely shows signs of thinking of Warden at crucial times, but, honestly, even I was distracted by Warden throughout the novel and I can't blame her! This brings me to how much I adore Paige for all she is. She is: - strong - witty - loyal (to her beliefs) - smart (especially with last minute situations) - naive with romance (which can be frustrating, but more hilarious to watch) - yet flawed Samantha created such an amazing main character and reading this through Paige's perspective is delightful (as delightful as going to a bookstore delightful). Now let me explain my dilemma after such an amazing read. You may have heard on my instagram, but I had an ultimate fail when it came to this series... I was approved for the e-arc (The Song Rising) and I FORGOT TO DOWNLOAD IT IN TIME. (*dies a hundred times inside, yes do you feel my pain*). Not only was that a completely horrible slip up on my part, but after reading these two books I REALLY WANT THE NEXT ONE. If anyone wants any real, honest words about this novel... all I can say is learn from me and just purchase all three books (you're welcome in advance). This book and the series in general is something I'd recommend to everyone. If you have any recommendations for me or anything else book related comment below! Cover: ★★★★★ (gonna miss the old versions) Favorite Quote(s): "It's rare that a story begins at the beginning." "Some revolutions change the world in a day. Others take decades or centuries or more, and others still never come to fruition." " 'Would you follow a backstabber?' 'I'd rather follow one than walk in front of one.' " " Words give wings even to those who have been stamped upon, broken beyond all hope of repair." "It was the most secret breed of rebellion I could imagine, putting words on paper." " 'Truth looks different in every lens. History was made by liars.' " wow lots of quotes! (told you the writing was amazing!) Gilded Cage by Vic James
*I received an ARC of Gilded Cage by Vic James from NetGalley, but this in no way affected my honest opinion about the book.*
Synopsis: "Not all are free. Not all are equal. Not all will be saved. Our world belongs to the Equals — aristocrats with magical gifts — and all commoners must serve them for ten years. But behind the gates of England's grandest estate lies a power that could break the world. A girl thirsts for love and knowledge. Abi is a servant to England's most powerful family, but her spirit is free. So when she falls for one of the noble-born sons, Abi faces a terrible choice. Uncovering the family's secrets might win her liberty, but will her heart pay the price? A boy dreams of revolution. Abi's brother, Luke, is enslaved in a brutal factory town. Far from his family and cruelly oppressed, he makes friends whose ideals could cost him everything. Now Luke has discovered there may be a power even greater than magic: revolution. And an aristocrat will remake the world with his dark gifts. He is a shadow in the glittering world of the Equals, with mysterious powers no one else understands. But will he liberate—or destroy? " Review: I didn't really have any idea of what this book was about going in, but I new it was a fantasy novel. This novel definitely did not disappoint. The entire set up of this novel from the characters to plot to the world Vic James created is incredibly fascinating and was something I've never seen before. The way the world was set up was unique, but worked with the plot incredibly well. The world presented in Gilded Cage was presented, at first, as normal in terms of fantasy. There seemed to only exist a simple mix of magic and people, but quickly the darker side of the world is present. This dark twist quickly transforms this book into a whirlwind of adventure! The book is written with multiple perspectives, which was slightly confusing at first, but, after I caught up with the names, was incredibly insightful to understand what those characters were feeling. It also conveniently sets up mind-blowing plot twists or at least connections that make you go, "OOHHH!". Gilded Cage is not lacking in a VARIETY of unique characters. I found that I was most similar to Ami, but that I preferred reading in Luke's perspective, which luckily was the general perspective. I would go into depth on each character, but there are far too many and I don't want to give anything away! The plot of this novel is gripping and had me reaching to read a couple of pages, even when I was incredibly busy. I definitely thought I had the plot all worked out at a couple points along the book, but I was WRONG. Gilded Cage had my heart beating and definitely didn't always go the way I had predicted and that was amazing. The plot and characters were, without a doubt, why I can't wait for the next book. I didn't even realize this was a series until about halfway through, but I'm so grateful it is because I can't wait to see more of this unique world, its characters and the possibilities! I'm so grateful to have gotten to read this book early on and I would recommend this to all YA readers, but especially for those who love a unique fantasy, some fast paced adventure, and those who want to new series to fall in love with! I also later found that this was first written on wattpad and won an award which only adds to the reasons of why more people need to read this book! Cover: ★★★★★ (I don't know if this is even the finalized cover, but it's gorgeous all the same!) Favorite Quote(s): "no one will make you play. We may have chosen you, but you have to choose the game." "Trust lent you someone else's eyes, someone else's strong arms or quick brain. Made you bigger than just yourself." "The severity of the man's punishment was no proof that he deserved it." The Falconer by Elizabeth May
Synopsis:
"One girl's nightmare is this girl's faery tale She's a stunner. Edinburgh, 1844. Eighteen-year-old Lady Aileana Kameron, the only daughter of the Marquess of Douglas, has everything a girl could dream of: brains, charm, wealth, a title—and drop-dead beauty. She's a liar. But Aileana only looks the part of an aristocratic young lady. she's leading a double life: She has a rare ability to sense the sìthíchean—the faery race obsessed with slaughtering humans—and, with the aid of a mysterious mentor, has spent the year since her mother died learning how to kill them. She's a murderer. Now Aileana is dedicated to slaying the fae before they take innocent lives. With her knack for inventing ingenious tools and weapons—from flying machines to detonators to lightning pistols—ruthless Aileana has one goal: Destroy the faery who destroyed her mother. She's a Falconer. The last in a line of female warriors born with a gift for hunting and killing the fae, Aileana is the sole hope of preventing a powerful faery population from massacring all of humanity. Suddenly, her quest is a lot more complicated. She still longs to avenge her mother's murder—but she'll have to save the world first. The first volume of a trilogy from an exciting new voice in young adult fantasy, this electrifying thriller combines romance and action, steampunk technology and Scottish lore in a deliciously addictive read." Review: I went into the book only knowing that it might include steampunk and that it is a historical fiction novel, but I got SO MUCH MORE. The element of fantasy and fae has introduced me to a new world of fiction! I never got into historical fiction because I have never been a fan of history in school and historical fiction never appealed to me but The Falconer may have changed me for good! As reader who hasn't really touched high fantasy, historical fiction, or steampunk this book itself was just so amazing I didn't even need much exposure to its parts to fall in love with it. For me the book was separated into three things: romance, plot, and the world they lived in. Each provided their own unique input. I was gripped by the first page. For many books it can take me a good chapter to finally get into the flow, but this novel had my complete attention and I couldn't stop thinking about it, which is how I knew it was good from the start. My lack of knowledge on the main parts of this novel didn't help me predict the plot line, but even with exposure to fae and historical fiction, I found that the twists and turns had my head spinning. I felt some Lunar Chronicle and Outlander vibes, but even that couldn't prepare me for some of the plot twists. The endless excitement, action, romance, and magic kept me reading and reading until my eyes were drooping and still I read on. Love triangle? Not really. I really enjoyed the romance that was expertly weaved in and not all too strongly focused on. It was strange because this time period called for the focus on marriage, weddings, and courting, but Elizabeth May was able to turn away from that for the most part. The romantic tension was definately present throughout the novel underneath the surface, but overall the shift of focus brought more attention to an entirely different world that the characters lived in. This brings in the world of Aileana who is not at ALL what she seems and her fiery attitude is a welcomed point of view in the novel. Her world is filled with gadgets in a time long ago, located at Edinburgh, Scotland. Her trinkets and gadgets remind me of Cinder from the Lunar Chronicles and I just happened to love that aspect of this novel. However, out of all the amazing things in their world I LOVED learning more about the fae. I have read some books with the fae mentioned here or there, but this novel has taught me more about fae than any other book and the entire subject is now something I can't wait to delve deeper into! If it wasn't clear, I LOVED The Falconer and I am so excited to continue reading this series! Cover: ★★★★★ Favorite Quote(s): "It's a relief to be alone." "It seems strange that such destructive creatures could build something so beautiful." "Never trust the fae." Ruin and Rising by Leigh Bardugo
Synopsis:"The capital has fallen.
The Darkling rules Ravka from his shadow throne. Now the nation's fate rests with a broken Sun Summoner, a disgraced tracker, and the shattered remnants of a once-great magical army. Deep in an ancient network of tunnels and caverns, a weakened Alina must submit to the dubious protection of the Apparat and the zealots who worship her as a Saint. Yet her plans lie elsewhere, with the hunt for the elusive firebird and the hope that an outlaw prince still survives. Alina will have to forge new alliances and put aside old rivalries as she and Mal race to find the last of Morozova's amplifiers. But as she begins to unravel the Darkling's secrets, she reveals a past that will forever alter her understanding of the bond they share and the power she wields. The firebird is the one thing that stands between Ravka and destruction—and claiming it could cost Alina the very future she’s fighting for." Review: My heart was throbbing with the amount of feels I got throughout reading this book. Once again, Leigh Bardugo has forced me to actually stop between scenes to just process my feelings and calm my poor heart. Ruin and Rising really brought this series to a beautiful ending that left me content with what I was given, even though I love the Grisha world so much and don't really ever want it to end. This book may only be a couple hundred pages long, but like Siege and Storm, so much happened. I honestly paused every couple of scenes just to process everything because the plot was amazing and my heart was definitely being stressed out. In terms of romance, Ruin and Rising does finally put an end to the love triangle and because I don't want to give any spoilers, I will just say that I was incredibly happy with who Alina ended up with. The romance was really built up in suspense throughout this entire book and I liked that because even though I was very much on a certain character's side, the feeling of suspense really glued my attention to the story. PS Alina and her love is now my OTP. Seriously, I get the feels everytime I read about them. The plot in Ruin and Rising, personally, was the best out of all three of the books. I loved all the plots but I found this one the best due to the many plot twists that I couldn't predict as well as how much Leigh Bardugo was able to fit in so little pages. This book could honestly be made into a two to three hour movie (yea that much happened). I loved that in this novel Alina really found out a lot about herself and all these cool mysteries that always seem to occur. I also loved that there is almost always something happening which can actually be hard to say for many books. Even when I stopped reading I couldn't stop thinking about what was happening and I would say that really means that this book is able to fully capture my imagination. I just could not stop thinking about what was going to happen. After reading this book I actually really fell in love with Zoya, Genya, and Harshaw. (As well as the character I was rooting for, but I won't say who.) It's strange that after what they've been through the reader is also able to fall in love with characters Alina didn't always like! PPS: I haven't mentioned in my previous reviews, but I also love the before and after parts of this book. They really get me in the Grisha mood in the beginning and tie up any loose ends to keep me content. PPPS: Let me know if Genya reminds you of the Selection series?! If you want a soul touching book, filled with action, magic, and love, this is it! Ruin and Rising and the rest of the Grisha Trilogy is a series I will never forget, because it's just something that won't let you forget it. Seriously, go and pick up Shadow and Bone today to start the series, you can thank me later! Cover: ★★★★★ Favorite Quote(s): (can dedications count?) "For my father, Harve - Sometimes our heroes don't make it to the end." " 'Beauty was your armor. Fragile stuff, all show. But what's inside you? That's steel. It's brave and unbreakable. And it doesn't need fixing.' " " In the end, maybe love just meant longing for something impossible bright and forever out of reach." " 'Maybe you're hungry,' said Zoya. 'I always get mean when I'm hungry.' 'Are you hungry all the time?' asked Harshaw." "It was stupid. It was dangerous. But Ana Kuya used to tell me that hope was tricky like water. Somehow it always found a way in." Heartless by Marissa Meyer
*I received a digital ARC of Heartless from Macmillan Children's Publishing Group through NetGalley , but this in no way affected my honest opinion about the book.*
Synopsis: "Long before she was the terror of Wonderland — the infamous Queen of Hearts — she was just a girl who wanted to fall in love. Catherine may be one of the most desired girls in Wonderland, and a favorite of the yet-unmarried King of Hearts, but her interests lie elsewhere. A talented baker, all she wants is to open a shop with her best friend and supply the Kingdom of Hearts with delectable pastries and confections. But according to her mother, such a goal is unthinkable for the young woman who could be the next Queen. At a royal ball where Cath is expected to receive the king's marriage proposal, she meets Jest, the handsome and mysterious court joker. For the first time, she feels the pull of true attraction. At the risk of offending the King and infuriating her parents, she and Jest enter into an intense, secret courtship. Cath is determined to define her own destiny and fall in love on her terms. But in a land thriving with magic, madness, and monsters, fate has other plans. " Review: Heartless was one of my most anticipated reads this year, but although the book was written well I found it somewhat disappointing (but I still didn't take away any stars because it was that sort of bad if you know what I mean). Essentially, Heartless is a twist on Alice and Wonderland, but not in the same way Marissa Meyer twisted many fairy tales for the Lunar Chronicles. You can expect for Heartless to stay a bit truer to Alice and Wonderland and less of a completely different story like her other series. Although the world itself was not the most interesting part of the book for me (especially since the world of Alice in Wonderland is already SO wondrous) I found myself more attached to the characters and the plot. Catherine in the main character of the book and I actually related to her in many ways (as most parents do have their children's futures in some kind of set path and when I younger I actually wanted to become a baker). Despite my connection to Catherine, I found myself even more intrigued by Jest. Jest was by far my favorite character in the book and before long I was deeply invested in Jest. Like most perfect fictional guys, he was kind and gorgeous, but Jest, being the Joker also had a quick wit and was humorous. My main attraction to the other characters was really the fact that I could tie them back to the original story and find out how Marissa Meyer tweaked them, which was incredibly interesting to look for (almost like Where's Waldo?). The plot was heartbreaking, beautiful, and well thought out. There is a love triangle (warning for those who don't like the love triangle), but it wasn't really one of the annoying sorts of love triangles. I found the romance to be by far one of my favorite things about this novel and though things didn't go the way I wanted (NO SPOILERS I PROMISE), I still accepted the outcome. The rest of the plot was also incredible and Marissa Meyer really found a way to incorporate the entire world of Alice in Wonderland in a slightly different angle. However, I did find the ending of this novel to be a little to fast for me and I wished that there was more to really help me get through it. With only minor complaints, (ones that I probably can't really complain about), I found Heartless to be without a doubt one of the best books I have read this year. It also really sparked a love for Alice in Wonderland that I didn't know I had in me! (Seriously! I went and watched Through the Looking Glass after reading this because I didn't want anything to stop!) I would really recommend Heartless to any Alice in Wonderland lovers as well as those who love retellings, fantasy, or romance! Cover: ★★★★★ (UM FREAKIN' GORGEOUS) Favorite Quote(s): " 'Perhaps we know each other in the future and you're only remembering backward.' " "Fascinating, isn't it, how often heroic and foolish turn out to be one and the same." " 'But hoping,' he said, 'is how the impossible can be possible after all.' " |
Stephanie C.A fan of anything fiction, furry, & fun. Archives
June 2019
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