Review: Restore Me (Shatter Me #4) by Tahereh Mafi

Dear Tahereh,

Are you sure this book is really entitled “Restore Me”? Because this didn’t restore me AT ALL. This DESTROYED AND SHATTERED ME. Which, now that I think about it, is the title of the whole series so I should’ve expected that.

Love,
Kai

Title: Restore Me (Shatter Me #4) by Tahereh Mafi
Release Date: March 6, 2018
Published by: HarperCollins
Source: Bought (Kindle)

Buy online: National Bookstore


Summary:
Juliette Ferrars thought she'd won. She took over Sector 45, was named the new Supreme Commander, and now has Warner by her side. But she's still the girl with the ability to kill with a single touch—and now she's got the whole world in the palm of her hand. When tragedy hits, who will she become? Will she be able to control the power she wields and use it for good?

I thought I was done with this series. I will admit that I was surprised when I found out there was another book because I always thought stories that could’ve ended the way they did must be left that way, and I've read quite a few that felt forced and was continued for the sake of having more books because it was popular, but I am so glad this series have more books still! It’s been years and I was hit with the realization that I craved for a continuation, and now here I am, a big ball of feelings.

The story starts where Ignite Me ended, and Juliette now faces life as Sector 45’s Supreme Commander. She thought it was going to be easy, but being a leader is putting her through such a tough test, not just of confidence but her ability to lead. She’s always lived such an enclosed, sheltered life, mostly disconnected to humans that she finds herself lacking in many ways. Warner, on the other hand, is facing enough challenges on his own. He isn’t the unfeeling commander anymore, but instead is hit with unexpected grief for his father’s death.

I love how Tahereh managed to move forward with the story without it feeling forced or making it look artificial with a shallow plotline. Without giving much away, what transpired gave me something to look forward to, and made me realize how much more there is to tell about the characters I love. 

The pacing in this book was much slower, but I’m glad it was because it gave me time to soak in what was happening in the aftermath. The sense of nostalgia was there upon seeing so many familiar characters and reading of their life after the events in Ignite Me. And though many things are changing as the story moves forward, I am glad that some things remain constant, like how Kenji is still an insufferable dork! His sense of humor gives me a brief break from Warner and Juliette's emotions. It felt more intense because the alternating POV between Juliette and Warner gradually increases not just the tension but the conflict not just between them, but with how they deal with things. There was so much work to do, so much to fix that sometimes they didn't know where to start. What happened in the previous book wasn’t an ending but a beginning of something much bigger and more complicated. 

Going through Juliette’s fragmented thoughts on paper and seeing those broken lines, feeling so much from it made me realize how much I missed being in their world, no matter how dark it felt compared to the other books in the series.

I would like to think that with the slow pace, we are instead given a chance to delve more into Juliette’s and Warner’s psyche, their worries and fears, their doubts and insecurities, their feelings and  all the aspects that made up their relationship. So much has been left unsaid and not discussed that it was one of the integral points of the story that left me so frustrated. Without giving away anything major, I think this book affected me more because I am presented with so much emotions and thoughts going back and forth that I can’t help but absorb and be immersed with them. I see faults and flaws. I see shortcomings. I see things that gave me more perspective when it comes to both Juliette and Warner. They felt more human here and more in touch with themselves than in the 3 books combined. 

I am delighted by the plot twist right in the middle of the book. I never thought it would come but when it was there, I had to brace myself because now the story is heading somewhere. New characters were introduced and with it comes the intrigue and that sense of foreboding that things really will start unraveling soon. In case no one's noticed in my tweets, I totally love Nazeera! And I feel like Juliette's world is expanding, and with it comes frightening truths about not just herself but Warner as well.

And that ending. THAT. ENDING. I can't believe the book ended that way! That ending, after I sat there speechless for a full minute, made me scramble to look at the calendar and count the days until the next book comes out because I have so many questions that needs to be answered! What a freaking roller coaster of emotions! One moment I was so happy and giggly and then the next I want to pull my hair out of my head and hit the table so hard because of extreme frustration. Tahereh gives me life only to kill me over and over again.

Restore Me is a great set up for what is sure to be an action packed, intriguing fifth book. Reading it felt like meeting an old friend after a long time and catching up because there's so much more I have to know. What an exhilarating ride that was. And what an amazing way to introduce me back to a series I love so dearly. Restore Me delivered, and boy did it deliver so much. Now I sit here and wait for another year to read the next book!

Kai's favorite quote:

“I have a great fear of drowning in the ocean of my own silence.”

Content (plot, story flow, character):

I just love this book so much. I missed Juliette. I missed Warner. I missed Kenji. I missed literally everyone in this book that I was overcome with emotions the moment I flipped to the last page. IS THAT ALL? WHERE IS THE NEXT PAGE?!

Stunning: Worthy of a Goddess' Praise!

Book Cover:
I am so glad that cover is consistent with the design of the other four books! You guys don't know how relieved I am for that.

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Review: The Conspiration of The Universe by Kenneth Olanday

Hello readers! Long time no post? :) Anyway, yes this blog is still alive and today is my stop for The Conspiration of The Universe blog tour.

Title: The Conspiration of the Universe by Kenneth Olanday
Release Date: October 2017
Published by: Popfiction
Source: From the publisher (Thanks Ishi and Jesselle!)

Summary:
Luke believes in a quote by his favorite author -- that is you want something so bad, the universe will conspire to help you get it.

Luke must have wanted to find love so much that Eureka, the heroine of his favorite book, comes to life and falls in love with him.

There is just one catch: once Eureka reaches the end of her book's storylike in the real world, then her story with Luke will end, too.

Will the universe conspire to help the star-crossed lovers find true happiness with each other?

One thing is for sure, Luke will do everything he can to keep Eureka forever.

Now, I will be completely honest. There are things in the book that worked for me and unfortunately a lot that didn't. I'll do my best to explain why, but again keep in mind that every reading experience is different, so read this review with your own preferences in mind.

When I first read the summary, I was immediately hooked. I'm a sucker for stories like this, and when I saw the cover, I was more eager to read the book and find out for myself if it's really good. A girl who came to life from a book you love? Her life following the book's story line? Very, very interesting indeed.

This is technically my 3rd Pop Fiction book, and I really loved the one I've read before this, which was Better Than Fiction. (My rave review for that will be posted soon, for those who haven't seen my tweeting spree a few days ago.) It might have set my expectations higher, and I have hoped that reading The Conspiration of The Universe will sustain those feelings but the reading experience is a bit different with this one.

It was very hard for me to connect with Luke. He was not the best protagonist I've read about, and having a love-hate relationship with the person whose POV I'm reading the book from tends to lessen my enjoyment of a story. While I can understand how he can be a pessimist at times, but can he at least have a better attitude towards his mother? Is it teenage angst? I didn't like his thoughts at all when he broke up with Sydney, and I didn't like Sydney any better too, so no love lost there. Do you really invite your ex out for lunch in the aftermath of a break up and get angry because they said NO? Come on.

On the other hand, I feel like Luke's love for books made me connect with him even just a little. I understand that feeling, where you love a book so much you wish the characters were real. In that sense, I was so amused when Eureka showed up. She's like a breath of fresh air in the story. She's quirky, dorky and cheerful. Though her cluelessness sometimes confuse me because 3 years seems like a short amount of time to not have an idea that the internet does exist and yes there are DVD players, she's still an interesting character. I was rooting for her. I want to see her carve her own path and do what she loves and break out of that box of expectations her parents had set for her life. She wanted to be a videographer and I admire her reason for aspiring to be one.

Slow burn is my jam, but that was not the case here. The story started out very shaky for me, what with having a book whose pages suddenly became blank and eventually have an e-book where you can read everything is a bit weird. I felt like the chemistry between Eureka and Luke were at a level of strong, platonic friendship at best and falling in love, really, was out of the question. There are also scenes where I felt were unnecessarily added and then having so little time to establish having Luke and Eureka fall in love. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the way they interacted with each other and find myself smiling when Matt teased them about being a nerdy couple.

The ending is to be expected. There were lots of moments that set the story up for the conclusion, so it was sensible that it ends that way, but I still feel like it could have been explained better. Why was there a video at the end from Eureka? Did she just disappear or just left Luke behind for good? Did she return to the book? I was very confused with that part. The author made an effort in giving the story an ending that was open to interpretation, and I feel that it gave the book more depth. The portrayal of Luke's struggle to move on was very emotional, and that eventually gave the book an extra kick in the heart as it ends.

My absolute favorite part of the book is, admittedly, Matt. He's like that friend who tends to fight with you all the time but is always there to set you straight and get you out of the mess you're in when you need them to. He's fun and sarcastic and basically delivers the hard punches and truths and the personified version of a very good smack in the head for Luke. His prequel story was EXTREMELY good, and it was such an uplifting snippet that I wished was longer so I can drown in the feels a little bit more.

The Conspiration of the Universe is not what I expected it to be, but the elements that worked for me gave brief moments that were sweet, enjoyable and entertaining. Insta love and meeting the author of the book you've obsessed over for years kind of plot twists aside, people will find the light-hearted moments between friends (Matt and Luke), lovers (nerdy couple Luke and Eureka) and that extra dose of angst a good combination in a story like this.


Content (plot, story flow, character):

I'm not trying to nitpick, but the typos also bothered me a little bit. Maybe I'm a jaded older reader, but more fluff please. This had so much potential but fell a little short for me.

Okay: Liked, but The Goddess demands more!

Book Cover:
Oh my goodness, I love everything about the cover! The illustration is SO good and it blends well with the typography used. It's stunning and if you have the chance to get your hands on a real copy, the texture of the cover is really nice. Kudos to whoever designed the cover, what an amazing job!

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Review: Karmic Hearts by Jhing Bautista + Author Interview!

Fair warning, this is the first Pop Fiction book I've read. I tried to keep my expectation at a minimum, but right after I've read the summary for Karmic Hearts I knew I just had to read the book.

Title: Karmic Hearts by Jhing Bautista
Release Date: May 09, 2017
Published by: Pop Fiction (Summit Books)

Source: From the publisher

Read the original Wattpad story here.

Love. Magic. Fate. Best-selling romance novel author Karmina Joan writes about these things. She believes that every person has a purpose, that every soul has a destiny to fulfill. She thought hers was simply sharing her stories.

Her story unfolds with Cupid, the Angel of Love himself. He brings with him a mysterious vessel and a message from on high. It turns out Karmina has a bigger purpose after all—a mission that will make or break humanity as we know it.

As Cupid teaches her the tricks of his trade, Karmina unknowingly gives him something unexpected in return— something the angel of love will find oddly familiar. This may become the one flaw in an otherwise perfect plan that destiny had in store for them.

Does love truly conquer all or are there limits to what humanity can do in the name of love? Witness as Karmina struggles to find the answers before time runs out on true love.

I have a tendency to swoon over stories about Love, Fate and Destiny. So a story about a girl seeing red strings? Meeting Cupid? With a writer as the character lead? Count me in.

I must admit that I initially had a hard time reading the book. There were grammar and spelling nuances that distracted me from going further faster, and I had trouble connecting with Mina initially, but I powered through for the sake of the story and I am glad I did. There is something magical in the way the story unfolded, and I found myself flipping through the pages until I reached the end. And WHAT. AN. ENDING.

There's something about Jhing's writing that sustains your curiosity and makes you want to read up to the last page.

If Cupid is real (can he be, please? :) ) he'll probably just smile one of those smiles of his upon finding so many people liking him in the story, and that includes me. This charismatic, drop dead gorgeous guy... humorous and witty. And though I did not like Mina at first, you cannot deny the chemistry between the two of them. Karmina does have a bigger purpose, and it is so much more than sharing her stories, I am glad that even if I find her disagreeable at first, she grew into someone I really want to root for in the story.

Staying true to the title and the plot, Karmic Hearts is a story about all forms of love and all the trials and tribulations that comes along with falling in love. It can be tricky to have a mix of the myths, red string, fate and destiny but Jhing Bautista makes you believe in it. If you don't, then this story will make you want to believe. What a heart warming story, and I am glad my first Pop Fiction book reading experience went really well.

P.S.

Call it curiosity on my part but I did read the original version on Wattpad. My reading experience is a little bit different with that one, but the story still delivers nonetheless. I can easily agree with a lot of the readers that the Wattpad format is easier to read, but reading the book form is so much worth the time as well!

Content (plot, story flow, character):

I mentioned the things that made me lose a bit of focus at the start of the book, but this is still a good read! Ah, Cupid...

Shining: Worthy of a Goddess' Love!

Book Cover:
Super in love with the cover!

And now I share to you, my dear readers, an interview from the author of Karmic Hearts herself, Jhing Bautista. As part of the blog tour, I was able to ask Jhing a few questions about the book, being an author and the transformation Karmic Hearts went through from Wattpad to being a published book. Read it all below!

First things first, where did you get the idea for Karmic Hearts?

Karmic Hearts is a collection of random ideas that I’ve gathered over the years but didn’t know where and how to use.

a. When I was a kid, I used to save coins to buy this 99-peso cologne. The scent was not the thing that made me want to buy that particular cologne. It was the design on the container. Guardian angels.
b. I love movies that tackle destiny and fate, like Serendipity. It’s just nice to know that no matter what happens, if you’re meant to end up with someone, the universe will conspire to get you two together.
c. I love the movie, City of Angels. It’s just so poetic.
d. I was always curious about who I’ll end up with and how we’ll end up together. This made me curious about everyone else’s fate as well.

Since Karmic Hearts was first published in Wattpad, I'm curious to know more about your writing process. How did you go about writing? Do you finish a couple of chapters at a time and post? Or post the chapter as you finish writing them?

I don’t make a draft for each story. I only have a concept, an ending, and some key points along the way. The Wattpad version of KH went through the same process as my other stories. I wrote the first few chapters and figured out the middle part and up to the end. After I write a chapter, I post it on Wattpad right away.

For the book, since I don’t have to post it anywhere, the writing was continuous. However, the only difference from the Wattpad version was I consulted a few people and asked them to read the chapters that I’ve finished so they can tell me if I’m losing the feel halfway.

You have so many stories published in Wattpad, how do you make time to write? What is a typical writing day for you?

I always have time to write. Even when I’m at work, I find the time to write. Writing is not something that I can schedule because inspirations and ideas come at random times. My typical writing day does not only involve writing. I also listen to songs, watch movies, stare into space, eat, sleep, observe my environment.

Any advice for writers, not limited to Wattpad writers only, looking to have their books published?

First, be ready to compromise. I think people who want to have their stories published should keep this in mind. The thing is, even though we want certain things and think we know what is best for our story, that will change once the publisher comes into the picture.

Second, it is best to rewrite your story, remove the fillers, and only keep the important things. The publisher provides a certain budget for our book. The least we can do is to make it worth their money.

The one lesson/idea your readers can learn when they read Karmic Hearts?

Hmm. A reader sent me a message, probably a year or two ago. She said that Karmic Hearts taught her to pray harder and more sincerely. It somehow strengthened her faith in God.

If you can be in Cupid's shoes for one day, whose hearts would you want to connect and why?

I can’t think of anyone I’d want to connect. Haha!

---

And there you have it! I am the last stop for the Karmic Hearts blog tour. Check the list of blogs who participated in the tour for their reviews and other interviews related to the book. Happy reading!

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ARC Review: Eliza and Her Monsters by Francesca Zappia

Better late than never! It took me quite some time to post my review, mostly because I need to sort out my feelings and translate them into words and coherent thoughts and sentences, but here it is!

Title: Eliza and Her Monsters by Francesca Zappia
Release Date: May 30th 2017
Published by: HarperCollins
Source: From the publisher

Buy online: Book Depository

Summary: Eighteen-year-old Eliza Mirk is the anonymous creator of Monstrous Sea, a wildly popular webcomic, but when a new boy at school tempts her to live a life offline, everything she’s worked for begins to crumble.

In the real world, Eliza Mirk is shy, weird, smart, and friendless. Online, Eliza is LadyConstellation, the anonymous creator of a popular webcomic called Monstrous Sea. With millions of followers and fans throughout the world, Eliza’s persona is popular. Eliza can’t imagine enjoying the real world as much as she loves her digital community. Then Wallace Warland transfers to her school, and Eliza begins to wonder if a life offline might be worthwhile. But when Eliza’s secret is accidentally shared with the world, everything she’s built—her story, her relationship with Wallace, and even her sanity—begins to fall apart. With pages from Eliza’s webcomic, as well as screenshots from Eliza’s online forums, this uniquely formatted book will appeal to fans of Noelle Stevenson’s Nimona and Rainbow Rowell’s Fangirl.

I was especially drawn to the story right after I've read the summary. A story about a webcomic creator? And said webcomic creator's real life colliding with her online identity? Sign me up. I have, however, severely underestimated this book.

The biggest surprise for me is Eliza. I related to her in a much more deeper level than I expected. But no, not at first. Not much, at first. I was curious enough because she's a reserved person, so talented but shy and quiet. Her online life was much more exciting and a complete opposite of her real life self. I found myself soaking in her thoughts. I do not agree with some of the things she complained about but the rest feels like I'm reading about a part of myself. The power you have online, people read about you and you're popular and you feel a sense of accomplishment for yourself. The lowest points when everything started to fall apart. Zero motivation, and what comes after the end. I really think how it was brave for writers to write an ending and think of what comes after it and still continue to write. I do write, that's why this story speaks to me so much and so clearly and so vividly. My work is mostly fanfiction, because I never ventured much outside of it, but every single thing that Eliza thought about her webcomic, it spoke to me on a level that I didn't really think I can relate to. But I did. I really did. I still think some of the sentences Francesa Zappia wrote still echo inside me days after I've finished reading the book.

This book understands me. This book perfectly puts into words the things I want to say. It's real, and it is not afraid to talk about anxiety and how it affects not just the person but the relationships and the people around her. It does not sugarcoat Eliza's mental state, even the suicidal thoughts when things become too much to bear.

Eliza and Her Monsters did not just tackle about writing, or Eliza's art, but also the fandom, online friends, real life friends, her relationship as the webcomic creator to her fans, and what happens behind the scenes of Monstrous Sea. There was so much to read and I find myself nodding to all of it. It happens, people. It's real. And I like how Francesza Zappia put it into words exactly right, including the highs and especially the lows. The self doubts, the fear of not being good enough, the pressure to produce, the guilt on the thought of not finishing and letting her readers and fans down. Eliza is such a courageous character, every day she battles these "monsters" and keep on trying still. I wish I can be this hopeful, and it makes me think about all the stories I could've finished were I not afraid, or if I realized the things Eliza did. Readers would oftentimes complain about the lack of parental presence in some YA books, but not here, and I love how one point has been stressed in the story: to try to understand each other better (this mostly applies to Eliza and her relationship with her family, especially her parents who do not really understand what she does and Monstrous Sea) and determine which friends are "real".

I never paid much attention on Sully and Church, but they made me smile towards the end. When life becomes tough, they were there for Eliza. And did I talked about Wallace? No? Wallace has his own monsters to battle, but I like how he was this soft spoken, talented person who was there with Eliza. The sweet, tender, awkward moments he and Eliza shared and how we also got a glimpse of what his life was like in contrast with Eliza. He wasn't perfect, he had his own problems to deal with and things to think about but he was such a bright presence that made the story whole.

I loved the format of the book! It did not just make me curious about Eliza's story, but the story she's crafting as well. I would love to see Monstrous Sea have its own story!

Ah, Francesca Zappia. This is the first book of hers I've ever read and I don't think it'll be the last! I love everything about this book. Eliza and Her Monsters (unexpectedly) blew me away.

P.S.: Guys, Children of Hypnos is real. You can read it on Wattpad here: https://www.wattpad.com/story/95478833-the-children-of-hypnos

Kai's favorite quote:

If you want the motivation back, you must feed it. Feed it everything. Books, television, movies, paintings stage plays, real-life experiences. Sometimes feeding simply means working, working through nonmotivation, working even when you hate it.

We create art for many reasons- wealth, fame, love, admiration- but I find the one thing that produces the best results is desire. When you want the thing you're creating, the beauty of it will shine through, even if the details aren't all in order. Desire is the fuel of creators, and when we have that, motivation will come in its wake.

Content (plot, story flow, character):

What else can I say? I love it, plain and simple.

Stunning: Worthy of a Goddess' Praise!

Book Cover:
The hands stained with paint, sketches of two characters. I'm sure you'll get it when you read the book!

There's also a giveaway for this as I'm part of the blog tour for Eliza and Her Monsters! Go enter below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Mini review: The Summer Palace (Captive Prince #3.5) by C.S. Pacat

What a way to start 2017! I've almost forgotten about the short stories, but I saw CS Pacat's post on Facebook and I've never 1-clicked any book faster in my life until this came out.

Title: The Summer Palace (Captive Prince #3.5) by C.S. Pacat
Release Date: January 5th 2017
Published by: Gatto
Source: Bought from Amazon


Buy online: Amazon

Summary:

Set after the events of the Captive Prince trilogy, The Summer Palace is a story about Damen and Laurent during summer. It's an epilogue of sorts to the Captive Prince series.

Captive Prince, as you may (or may not) know is one of my favorite reads in recent years. I don't think I've ever read anything like it and C.S. Pacat's writing is just divine. I've yet to post my review of the three main books in the Captive Prince series here but I am making an exception today as this is the first read that officially got me out of a year long reading slump and jumpstarted my 2017 quest to get back to book blogging and basically loving books again.

After the end of King's Rising, many fans were craving for more material to read about our beloved pair, Damen and Laurent. If you are a fan like me, the end of King's Rising made you cry out in disbelief because you too couldn't believe it was over JUST. LIKE. THAT. There is another short story released called Green but for a Season but I find that this short story, the "epilogue", is what I'm really waiting for.

What do I say? I love everything about it. This short story filled the book shaped hole made empty when the series ended. I love how after everything that had happened between both Damen and Laurent, they had something to look forward to and now they're here, and every single moment they shared together brings a smile to my face. It is a happy ending, but I love how C.S. Pacat made sure to let the readers know that the past shaped what they have in the present and what they will have in the future, that it can't be forgotten and will always be with them, that it is part of them. There's closure, and then there's the two of them ready to face the future, together. And you know what made me happier? I love how Laurent is now more honest with himself and more open with what he wants! He can laugh openly now, and be more at ease with Damen.

Also: the bath scene just made me swoon. The tables were turned and OH BOY wasn't that interesting. Laurent never fails to amaze me every single time.

I don't know how she does it, but C.S. Pacat just makes every encounter between Damen and Laurent as intense as it can possibly get. I love how there's a softer, gentler edge to it now, but the scenes just take your breath away like always.

The Summer Palace also offered a look at what happened immediately after the events in King's Rising, giving us readers a more complete view of the story, tying loose ends and answering more of the questions we had in the third book. So if you were craving for more like I was, then this short story just staved off the hunger for details.

I am looking forward to the other Captive Prince short stories! I know there's more to come (2 more?) and these stories just make me fall in love with C.S. Pacat's writing even more. I am definitely going to be on the look out for her new work, I hope she has one coming out this year!

Content (plot, story flow, character):

Just. I wish it was longer? It wouldn't be a short story if it was but I just want more! I don't think I'll ever get enough of Damen and Laurent, to be honest.

Stunning: Worthy of a Goddess' Praise!

Book Cover:
In the spirit of the simple covers. I like how they're consistent. Haha!

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ARC review: Places No One Knows by Brenna Yovanoff

"The days are strange and the nights feel like some hyper realistic dream I can't wake up from." p. 275

This is exactly how I feel about the book, in a nutshell.

Title: Places No One Knows by Brenna Yovanoff
Release Date: May 17th 2016
Published by: Delacorte Press
Source: From the publisher (Thanks Julia!)

Buy online: Book Depository

Summary:

Waverly Camdenmar spends her nights running until she can’t even think. Then the sun comes up, life goes on, and Waverly goes back to her perfectly hateful best friend, her perfectly dull classes, and the tiny, nagging suspicion that there’s more to life than student council and GPAs.

Marshall Holt is a loser. He drinks on school nights and gets stoned in the park. He is at risk of not graduating, he does not care, he is no one. He is not even close to being in Waverly’s world.

But then one night Waverly falls asleep and dreams herself into Marshall’s bedroom—and when the sun comes up, nothing in her life can ever be the same. In Waverly’s dreams, the rules have changed. But in her days, she’ll have to decide if it’s worth losing everything for a boy who barely exists.

I have never read any of Brenna Yovanoff's novels, so I didn't know what to expect. What drew me in to this book was the summary, and the "magical realism" theme underlying in the whole story.

The first one hundred pages, I can truthfully say that I only stayed because of the romance, which, when thrown into the mix of messy adolescent thoughts and emotions end up being so confusing I wasn't sure what I was reading. There was just so much to take in. And it took me a while to digest the whole dream side of the story, mainly because I have to go through both of Marshall and Waverly's thoughts first, and boy were they tough to get out of. I had to stop a couple of times because I felt like the heaviness of their feelings are bleeding out of the pages and into me.

One question kept on floating in my mind while I was reading this book. Was high school that complicated? In some level, I understand Waverly. The need to present a version of yourself that everyone approves of, to be perfect. It was hard being her, and at some point in her life she and Maribeth had developed a destructive give and take type of relationship that you can barely call "friendship" while making up versions of themselves which will help them achieve what they thought was something that will make them have a successful high school life. They were, of course, wrong. Waverly denies herself a lot of things, and never acts carelessly because she always thinks of the consequences, and what was best at the time even though that wasn't what she feels. And she feels, despite being called a 'robot'.

Marshall, on the other hand, is a very different person altogether. So much hurt, so much pain. Angst. Drama. The level of 'darkness' he was in is in some ways similar to Waverly, and I think that is what draws him to her. Like with Waverley, who was calculated and careful with her every move, Marshall is someone else entirely underneath the underachieving, bad boy persona. To find that he's actually a kind, sensitive soul was a surprise, though I was still a little bit apprehensive with the way his character was built. To feel nothing and be numb, escape reality by hiding behind the haze of drugs and alcohol. What a sad boy.

And speaking of characters, the one I like the most is Autumn. If the things happening in this book are weird (for me), then she's even weirder. But as I get to know Autumn, that's when she makes sense. Everyone thinks she's weird because she was being true to herself, and does what she wants without caring what people might think. She's frank, she pisses people off, but she's also caring. She's the complete opposite of Waverly in daylight, and I like how Waverly described her: "a friend she needs when she didn't even know she needed to have a friend". Her relationship with Marshall perfectly describes friends growing up: sometimes they just drift away and grow apart. She was also the perfect contrast to Maribeth, who lives to undermine people secretly, slowly and deliberately, to be on top. When in all honesty, she really is just lonely, just like Waverly once was, before she met Autumn and Marshall.

Despite the heaviness, I still find myself smiling at times during heated scenes, because it can get very intense, in that quiet, rushed, secretive kind of way that gives it an entirely different feel. Brenna Yovanoff did an awesome job diving into the characters of both leads that sometimes it's impossible not to get affected by what they think, what they feel. I love that with the alternating point of views, we see what's behind the many layers that define them, not just in high school or their social standing, but in their individual lives as well. Each character added in the story widens the reader's understanding not just of it's like to be Waverly and Marshall, but what it's like to be students at that point of their lives and what they go through as teens.

Spill walls with secrets, crying for help anonymously, it makes one look back and reminisce their own lives as teenagers. Striving to be polished and perfect and realizing that sometimes being perfect just doesn't work, and having the strength to speak up, to be strong and say what's on their minds, what's bothering them, and then work to be better. The lessons this book imparts to readers are powerful. The whole dream part was very tricky and shaky, but it kept me thinking if it was deliberately done as a part of the book's overall appeal. Magical realism always tend to confuse me, but I like how it leads to so much development in the story, in the case of this book.

Places No One Knows is such a loaded read. Different, but worth all the befuddling, puzzling moments. Sometimes, people can only find solace in that very narrow gap between reality and dream, and that certainly is the case for Waverly and Marshall, who can only be their true selves and connect when they're toeing that line. I still can't quite put this story into one form or place, but that's what made this an appealing read for me.

Content (plot, story flow, character):

It took me a while to get used to the whole dream concept, for a while everything seems so vague and outrageous, and the story is so heavy at times I had difficulty in continuing.

Shining: Worthy of a Goddess' Love!

Book Cover:
I love how the cover completely defies the expectation it sets when one reads the book.

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[Blog tour] Tell Me Three Things by Julie Buxbaum

Keeping in mind the title of the book, and the conversation format between Jessie and SN (Somebody Nobody), I will tell you my initial reactions after finishing this book in the same way:

1. Oh wow, the feels. I am drowning in feelings. And by feelings I mean this in a good way. It alternates from drowning in a tsunami of fluff and me sporting a goofy smile, to feeling emphatic and soaking in grief and all the teenage drama that unfolds in the pages.
2. This is like a movie in my head. So very entertaining and such a fun read. I love how I can just imagine every single moment in this book vividly.
3. Ethan. Because Ethan is Ethan is Ethan. (You'll get this once you read the book!) And that's all that matters. He makes everything better and I just can't get enough of him! I'm sure a lot of readers feel the same way.

Title: Tell Me Three Things by Julie Buxbaum
Release Date: April 5th 2016
Published by: Delacorte Press
Source: From the publisher (Thanks Julia!)

Buy locally: Fully Booked
Buy online: Amazon | Book Depository

Summary:

Everything about Jessie is wrong. At least, that’s what it feels like during her first week of junior year at her new ultra-intimidating prep school in Los Angeles. Just when she’s thinking about hightailing it back to Chicago, she gets an email from a person calling themselves Somebody/Nobody (SN for short), offering to help her navigate the wilds of Wood Valley High School. Is it an elaborate hoax? Or can she rely on SN for some much-needed help?

It’s been barely two years since her mother’s death, and because her father eloped with a woman he met online, Jessie has been forced to move across the country to live with her stepmonster and her pretentious teenage son.

In a leap of faith—or an act of complete desperation—Jessie begins to rely on SN, and SN quickly becomes her lifeline and closest ally. Jessie can’t help wanting to meet SN in person. But are some mysteries better left unsolved?

Don't you just love the initial intrigue you feel right after you read the summary? I did, and my expectations for the novel weren't really that high to begin with. But oh wow, as soon as I was 20 pages in I know I'm going to enjoy reading Jessie's story. So let me tell you three things that made this such a good read for me.

One: Jessie, Jessie and Jessie. S/N. Theo, Scar, Liam, Dri, Agnes. In short, the characters.

I absolutely love stories that hooks the reader right from the start, and meeting Jessie pulled me right in. A lot of aspects in her life is something I have experienced myself, and reading, remembering that similar place and point in my life instantly made me connect and relate with Jessie. I don't know how she did it but there's something in the way that Julie Buxbaum shaped Jessie's character that didn't make her an annoying person despite her life being very dramatic, and her being in the midst on an emotional time of her life. Here is a teenager, grieving, suddenly presented with a life drastically different than she's used to, alone, surrounded with everything unfamiliar. I admired Jessie in a lot of ways because she got through it. Jessie is fascinating, and her thoughts allowed me to know her more. What better way to present the story than being seen in her eyes.

And S/N. S/N, S/N, S/N. Oh, I just love him. Entertaining, witty, humorous, and despite being weird (Yes, even I can use the word to describe S/N) I can't get enough of S/N. Before I knew it I was looking forward to reading the banter, the IMs, the conversations with Jessie. Because that's just it, full of laughs and amusing thoughts of two teenagers. Though shrouded with secrecy, we also get to know S/N through the random facts shared in their conversations. It's like Julie was giving away bits and pieces and clues so the readers can find out who this person is, and I just ate up every single thing thrown my way. I loved that the uncertainty of S/N and Jessie's relationship was evident, and how it was properly expressed that real life and cyber versions of themselves aren't similar, that not all things might be real or true, how easy it is to say things online than to say it in person.

One more thing that I love: how there's a spectrum of other interesting characters throughout the book, each of them contributing in making the story likable and lovable. Theo, who I love to hate and hate to love. He has his own share of grief, and though most of the time he confuses me, grabbed my attention as well. Scar, who I loved because she's such a great best friend. And thrown in a couple of other hot guys like Liam, Caleb, Ethan to the mix to further muddle the trail that leads to S/N and it makes the story all the more adorable.

Two: The feelings, oh the feelings.

I've lost count how many times I found myself chuckling or full on laughing while reading. I was also frustrated, worried, anxious at various points of the book. To be able to feel such a variety of emotions while reading is something I don't always get to experience, but this book just gave me so much joy, laughter, made me a little teary eyed, sad, nervous and made me hold my breath in a span of 300 pages. Finding a place to belong, learning to live a good life after such a devastating loss and finding love in unexpected times and places, the story takes me through all of that. In the history of big secret revelations, the twist in this book is probably the best anti-climactic moment I will like for a long time. It was so... S/N.

Three: Julie Buxbaum's writing

I will be honest, I've figured out who S/N is very early in the story. But you know what? I think figuring out just who this online, mysterious friend is added an extra dimension to my reading. Because then I get to know this person as S/N and as who they are in real life. The contrasts in personalities, the why's, the what's and the how's that made them such a person. (I refuse to give unnecessary clues away!) The journey S/N and Jessie made before the secrets were revealed. I didn't give up until I see it happen, how Julie will bring the readers to that point. The story itself is simple and straightforward, but I like how as a reader, I get more than what I expected and that's what makes it such a special read. There's depth, emotions, lively characters, and it was such an engaging story. Who am I not to fall in love with such a potent combination?

In closing, here are the three things I know:

1. I recommend this book to all of you. It's already been a week since release date and you need to grab a copy NOW.
2. I am so glad I had a chance to read such a story. Another book to add on my favorite YA contemporary list. And I am proud to say that I will read anything Julie Buxbaum writes from now on.
3. Do I need a third reason? If yes, please read my review again and see if I can convince you one more time.

Kai's favorite quote:

When I close my eyes at night, I see last moments, impossible goodbyes.
But I don't dream anymore. Do you dream? I miss it.

Content (plot, story flow, character):

YA contemporaries just keep getting better and better this year. Wow. I just love this book so much I don't even know what else there is left to say! Just read it!

Stunning: Worthy of a Goddess' Praise!

Book Cover:
Of course. Waffles!

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ARC Review: No Love Allowed by Kate Evangelista

I am typing this review literally 10 minutes after I finish reading the book, so forgive me for the review that is also thinly disguised as me fangirling.

Oh man. The feels. It's all about the feels in this book.

(I've actually live tweeted while I was reading the book, so if you're interested in my reactions, you can follow the hashtag, #KaireadsNoLoveAllowed.)

Title: No Love Allowed by Kate Evangelista
Release Date: April 19th 2016
Published by: Swoon Reads
Source: Won from the author's contest

Buy: Amazon | Book Depository

Summary:

It's all fun and parties until someone falls in love in this modern fairy tale from author Kate Evangelista.

Caleb desperately needs a fake girlfriend. Either he attends a series of parties for his father’s law firm with a pretty girl on his arm, or he gets shipped off to Yale to start a future he’s not ready for and isn’t sure he wants. And sadly, the last unattached girl in his social circle has just made the grievous mistake of falling in love with him. Fortunately, Didi, recently fired waitress and aspiring painter, is open to new experiences. As the summer ticks by in a whirl of lavish parties, there’s only one rule: They must not fall in love!

It's the classic "two people who belong in two different worlds, brought about by certain circumstances" kind of love story but by the Book Gods, it worked and then some.

And it all started with ice cold water. Didi was having a bad day and glasses of cold water got dumped in a girl at the right place and the right time, she was fired, and she has met Mr. Golden Boy, and was given an opportunity for an unforgettable summer with no strings (or emotions) attached. That is, until feelings get in the way.

As I've mentioned in my live tweet, I was skeptical, maybe a little bit apprehensive with Didi's character (I blame the summary of the book for this!) but the first few pages changed my impression of her, what she did in those first . Unpredictable, yes. Funny and honest, yes. Creative person with a a complicated soul, yes. And to use Caleb's description of her: smart, perceptive with a hint of spice for flavor. Dare I use the word 'fierce'? Not really, but Didi is spontaneous and she views the world in colors, giving off a vibrant feel each time and I just can't help but be drawn and like that part of her. I love the way Kate framed her personality, that feeling where something more hides beneath the portraits, paints and pills.

For someone who's supposedly mastered the art of being a jerk, Caleb is a little bit less than that and more sensitive and attentive over Didi, which endeared him to me a lot. Seriously, a lot of what he does, may they be on purpose or just by instinct, makes me swoon. As a reader, I always have a smile on my face picturing Caleb inside my head. Described as someone who has everything (a.k.a. money and extraordinary good looks), Caleb's life has been maped out for him, pretty much been ruined by love, and I understand why he's trying to get away from it. Ah, but the feeling of smugness at that moment when the very thing he's avoiding happened was priceless.

I just found myself enjoying everything about this book, immersing myself in the story in a flash, relishing every moment of my reading experience. Didi and Caleb were mesmerizing enough to read of with the combination of their banter and perpetual teasing, the subtle cues and hints that they're slowly but surely falling for each other, but the supporting characters added such flair to the story that made it ten times better. Raise your hand if you love Nathan! He's like the fairy godmother Didi needed, and he's this bright ball of sunshine, all smiles and kindness and was just basically one top notch specimen that entertained me so much and made me so curious about him at the same time, that I found myself wishing that he gets his own story. (And we are getting one, thank goodness!) Him, Natasha and Preston are proof that they might be rich but they aren't a bunch of spoiled brats, with them providing good support for Caleb and their interactions with Didi, which more of then than not reduces me to giggles.

See, Kate piles fluff and feelings on top of the other until you feel warm and fuzzy and then she cuts you off with a conflict that on hindsight is something you know will happen, but the feels just overcomes you when you're at that part. A bunch of bated breaths and a whole lot of bracing (myself) around 30 pages before the end because at that point, I was eager to know how it was going to end, rooting for them and needing a happy ending. I was totally swept along with the story and I absolutely love the touch of reality that Kate added, of things not being "always like the movies", and being faced with an illness that puts uncertainty not just in their relationship in the long run but both Didi and Caleb's life as well. I didn't expect Caleb to be that emotional nor his decision on how to face it. Ah, love. It just does things to you. And I don't know how Kate managed to weave such an important theme into the story and make such an integral part click and make the story whole.

Overall, I can say that I really loved this book and I recommend it to everyone who loves a feel good read! It's got such a simple premise but the way it was written just made me breeze through it. It made me laugh, it made me smile, it made me feel frustrated, it made me sad and ultimately it made me feel such fluffy, romantic feelings. Ultimately, No Love Allowed made me fall in love with YA contemporary romance stories again.

Content (plot, story flow, character):

I flipped to the last page and I'm like "where are the rest?!" because all that was left were acknowledgements. I needed more! Also, this might just be me nitpicking a bit, but using and inserting the word "f*cking" in quite a few sentences got on my nerves a little because sometimes it felt unnecessary. Still a REALLY GOOD book though!
.5

Shining: Worthy of a Goddess' Love!

Book Cover:
Perfect visual for what the story is about!

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ARC Review: Titans by Victoria Scott

Goodbye, reading slump.
Thank you, Victoria Scott!

Title: Titans by Victoria Scott
Release Date: February 23rd 2016
Published by: Scholastic Press
Source: Publisher

Buy: Amazon | Book Depository

Summary:

Ever since the Titans first appeared in her Detroit neighborhood, Astrid Sullivan’s world has revolved around the mechanical horses. She and her best friend have spent countless hours watching them and their jockeys practice on the track. It’s not just the thrill of the race. It’s the engineering of the horses and the way they’re programmed to seem so lifelike. The Titans are everything that fascinates Astrid, and nothing she’ll ever touch.

She hates them a little, too. Her dad lost everything betting on the Titans. And the races are a reminder of the gap between the rich jockeys who can afford the expensive machines to ride, and the working class friends and neighbors of Astrid’s who wager on them.

But when Astrid’s offered a chance to enter an early model Titan in this year’s derby, well, she decides to risk it all. Because for a girl from the wrong side of the tracks, it’s more than a chance at fame or money. Betting on herself is the only way she can see to hang on to everyone in the world she cares about.

A very engaging read. That's something I didn't realize I need when I first started reading Titans. I'm in a year long slump, and Titans delivered a very entertaining story that just sucked me in right from reading page one.

I've had problems with female protagonists one too many times, and it seemed like I will have the same problem with Astrid. I feel like authors tend to make their female leads seem stubborn which will make them seem headstrong, but more often than not (and if not written properly), they will just come off as annoying. I was like that at first with Astrid. I was annoyed with her very much, but eventually my annoyance gave way to understanding. She's just a girl trying to save her family from falling apart completely, and she had been let down too many times to try and rely on others so she'd rather do something on her own. That in itself is admirable, and it made me understand her better.

What made Titans more charming for me are the addition of interesting characters around Astrid, supporting her. Her unlikely friendship with Rags and Barney, a pair of old but extraordinary and very intelligent people who can do a lot of great things. And I liked Magnolia from the very start. What a devoted friend, and really a friend to the truest sense of the word and I understand why one of Astrid's greatest fears is moving and leaving Magnolia behind. Where else will you find a friend who not only supports you in everything, despite having her own set of problems to deal with? Her quirky personality, her passion for art and her devotion for Astrid are what made Magnolia such a star in this book. And who can forget Padlock? I loved Padlock! Although I will admit, I thought the Titan's name will be a little more dramatic sounding, but Padlock was more than a horse for Astrid, though it was not like that at first. I liked how Astrid found another friend in him, and he was not just a means to an end, but a companion and a partner for a lonely girl who just want to feel loved, and was trying her best to take action when no one else would.

To be honest, what really made Titans an enjoyable read for me are the races. Victoria Scott didn't hold back and just described each race in such a way that the words swimming inside your head will effectively help you picture the scenes as they happen. What impeccable pacing! I keep on thinking how it would look like in real life. I feel the thrill, the danger, exhilaration and adrenaline through each obstacle and challenge the unlikely pair had to overcome. I was caught in each and every moment Astrid and Padlock push themselves on those tracks, with only one thing in mind: winning. There's more to the story than just racing, and I love how everything was incorporated to the novel. The strain in the dynamics of Astrid's family, her father's old fashion views, the perils of gambling and its consequences, a child blaming herself for a loved one's death, the gap between social classes and the social stigma one receives from being poor... all of these were woven in good timing inside the novel. Also, not every girl needs a love interest. I love how romance is not really a big factor in this, but that did not take away much from the story.

Thoroughly entertaining and addictive at times, Titan is a quick read that provides good entertainment for the readers in a good blend of sci-fi, fantasy, a side of angst and a healthy dose of action. Victoria Scott made it work! I did not let go until I flipped to the last page, and though the ending felt abrupt, this is one good read.

Content (plot, story flow, character):

The ending, as mentioned, felt a little abrupt. I kept on turning my ARC over wondering if I was missing a page or two! I was also able to figure out the ending way before I read the climactic scene.

Shining: Worthy of a Goddess' Love!

Book Cover:
Perfect visual for what the story is about!

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Review: Anna and the Swallow Man by Gavriel Savit

Let me start this review by saying that I rarely read MG, much less those set in times that are part of our world's history. But Gavriel Savit's Anna and the Swallow Man is one memorable read.

Title: Anna and the Swallow Man by Gavriel Savit
Release Date: January 26, 2016
Published by: Knopf
Source: Publisher

Buy: Amazon | Book Depository

Summary:

Kraków, 1939. A million marching soldiers and a thousand barking dogs. This is no place to grow up. Anna Łania is just seven years old when the Germans take her father, a linguistics professor, during their purge of intellectuals in Poland. She’s alone.

And then Anna meets the Swallow Man. He is a mystery, strange and tall, a skilled deceiver with more than a little magic up his sleeve. And when the soldiers in the streets look at him, they see what he wants them to see.

The Swallow Man is not Anna’s father—she knows that very well—but she also knows that, like her father, he’s in danger of being taken, and like her father, he has a gift for languages: Polish, Russian, German, Yiddish, even Bird. When he summons a bright, beautiful swallow down to his hand to stop her from crying, Anna is entranced. She follows him into the wilderness.

Over the course of their travels together, Anna and the Swallow Man will dodge bombs, tame soldiers, and even, despite their better judgment, make a friend. But in a world gone mad, everything can prove dangerous. Even the Swallow Man.

It was obvious right from the start that Gavriel Savit has a way with words. It was, simply put, stunning. It's what made me want to dive into the story more, what pulled me in ultimately, even when I'm uncertain what kind of of story the author will present, even when I thought quite a few times that I'd stop reading and abandon the story. World War II wasn't the best time or setting, as is with every war, but as I continue to read, urged on by the beautiful prose, I found myself immersed in the story more.

Anna is a very interesting child, having a father who knows many languages that she didn't even know what their native tongue really was. There is a certain naivety and innocence in her, especially with the way she sees the war, not knowing a lot and unsure of many, many things and how life just works. But through their journey, Anna grows.

The Swallow Man, on the other hand, is a man shrouded in mystery, someone who knows how to speak the many languages Anna does and it is what made Anna attached to him, he is just like her father. It's through him that Anna learned the language called "Road": something to keep them safe and protected, with his clever ways and his ability to adapt in order to survive. The way he thinks is impressive, becoming Anna's protector, guiding her through an uncertain journey and it's what made me like him.

What people might find confusing is that the story was seen through a seven year old's eyes, but interpreted in a way that makes one think that it's for adults. It made the whole mood of the story seem different, and it worked for me. With very little dialogue, but often peppered with paragraphs and sentences that perfectly describes what was happening, it was obvious in the way the story was set up that this can work not just for YA readers, but for other types of readers as well. There's no doubt that Gavriel Savit has a way with words, and combine that with magical realism along with elements of survival, family, loss and hope set in such a trying time, Anna and the Swallow Man sure makes for a different kind of reading experience.

It's the type of book I do not often read but I am glad I gave this a try. Gavriel Savit's writing was a delight to read, almost lyrical, symbolic, with thought provoking lessons rooted deep within the story.

Content (plot, story flow, character):

A star off is because it takes a while to get the story moving. Like I mentioned, at the start there are times where I thought of giving up but Gavriel Savit's writing kept me holding on. Some parts tend to be confusing, so if needed, take a while to digest them. Ultimately, it is up to the reader to interpret the ending, and there might be some who will not like that.

Shining: Worthy of a Goddess' Love!

Book Cover:
Have you seen what the book looks like? Love it!

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Review: Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon

If I'd known Nicola Yoon's book will get me out of my year long reading slump, I would've done anything to get it in my hands sooner. I owe this book a lot. And it owes me a whole set of neon tabs and a box of tissues for my tears.

Title: Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon
Release Date: September 1st 2015
Published by: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Source: Publisher (Thanks Claire!)

Buy: Amazon | Book Depository

Summary:

My disease is as rare as it is famous. Basically, I’m allergic to the world. I don’t leave my house, have not left my house in seventeen years. The only people I ever see are my mom and my nurse, Carla.

But then one day, a moving truck arrives next door. I look out my window, and I see him. He’s tall, lean and wearing all black—black T-shirt, black jeans, black sneakers, and a black knit cap that covers his hair completely. He catches me looking and stares at me. I stare right back. His name is Olly.

Maybe we can’t predict the future, but we can predict some things. For example, I am certainly going to fall in love with Olly. It’s almost certainly going to be a disaster.

Maddy is allergic to the outside world, and has since lived in the safety of her home all her life. Now 18, Maddy was supposed to live her life just like every other year, safe, in an environment her mother can control. That is, until a new family moved next door. And then Maddy finds herself helplessly drawn to the boy next door who climbs roofs and wears black and makes her want to set foot outside and explore the world. But what can she do if the very thing she wants just might be the one which will kill her?

Maddy has SCID, a very rare disease where she can be allergic to anything, even the air she breathes. My first reaction was to pity her, because who would want to spend their lives bound to the four walls of her house? Her world was very limited, but you know what? I came to love Maddy because of who she is. Her sense of humor, her love for reading, as she understands that all too familiar feeling of existing in another world just by reading stories and it made me identify with her easily. And maybe because she has been confined all her life, she has this yearning for more, which she tries to reign in most of the time because it's hard to hope and she knew she's incurable. There's this growing thirst in her to explore that just makes me want to watch and see what she will do. Take a risk? Accept her fate and live all her life in a bubble or take the leap? She's intriguing in her own way.

And that kind of personality is what draws her to Olly. Ah, Olly... the boy who can't seem to stand still, always moving and leaping to places and climbing on walls. The boy who prefers limericks over haikus and loves math, chaos theory and how it can be related to our lives. What's not to love there? He's sweet and supportive, though a little jaded with life over the abuse he, his sister and his mom receives from his dad. I love how their chemistry eventually worked out, from being funny to cute to something worthy enough to swoon over, the push and pull, the "we can't" and "we can". The chats they exchanged made me laugh so much and it's just wonderful to see Maddy living her life with all the firsts she has encountered and many of which she shared with and is sometimes because of Olly.

The book is a wonderful mix of everything, from Maddy's illustrations, lists, word definitions, and the diversity is evident in each page which gave the novel an extra special feeling for me. It didn't matter if Maddy's father is African American and her mother is Japanese American. She's just Maddy who's in love with the boy with eyes as blue as the Atlantic Ocean. As much as I was looking forward to where Olly and Maddy's love will take them, it wouldn't be possible without Carla. The oh so lovable Carla, a fountain of wisdom with so much love to give and lessons to impart with to Maddy.

The fluff and the sweetness of firsts were enough to keep me fascinated with Everything, Everything but it turns out Nicola Yoon had more in store for her readers. The last 50 or so pages of the book made me snatch the tissue box and grip the book so hard. There is a twist, dear readers. If you are perceptive and are open to the thought then the twist has always been there, but then it happens. What if it's not just Maddy who has a problem? I loved how Nicola Yoon presented that part to her readers, and I loved how Maddy faced that possibility that turned out to be the truth and how she dealt with it. It felt truthful to me, though some might disagree. Some choices you just have to make though it is hard.

What else is there to say? There was no need for fanciful words to make a story so good and appealing to the readers. Nicola Yoon wove feelings and emotions in each and every word of Everything, Everything and filled it with characters experiencing such life changing moments that they felt so alive. I got hooked before I knew it. I was quietly sitting in front of my study table and in the next moment I was totally immersed in the story and until now I have no idea what happened.

Kai's favorite quote:

“I decided then that love is a terrible, terrible thing. Loving someone as fiercely as my mom loves me must be like wearing your heart outside of your body with no skin, no bones, no nothing to protect it.”

Content (plot, story flow, character):

A heartfelt, very emotional read filled with firsts, about love and family and taking risks and living the life we want to live. This won't be the last Nicola Yoon book that I will read, that's for sure. I want more!

Stunning: Worthy of a Goddess' Praise!

Book Cover:
I love everything about that cover.

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Review: A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #1) by Sarah J. Maas

Today is one of those rare days where I tell myself: "Well, it looks like we've been introduced to another great author, eh?".

*spreads arms to meet the legions of fellow Sarah Maas fans*

Title: A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses #1) by Sarah J. Maas
Release Date: May 5th 2015
Published by: Bloomsbury Children's
Source: Publisher (Thanks Bloomsbury!) | Bought a physical copy
Buy: Amazon | Book Depository

Summary:

A thrilling, seductive new series from New York Times bestselling author Sarah J. Maas, blending Beauty and the Beast with faerie lore.

When nineteen-year-old huntress Feyre kills a wolf in the woods, a beast-like creature arrives to demand retribution for it. Dragged to a treacherous magical land she only knows about from legends, Feyre discovers that her captor is not an animal, but Tamlin—one of the lethal, immortal faeries who once ruled their world.

As she dwells on his estate, her feelings for Tamlin transform from icy hostility into a fiery passion that burns through every lie and warning she's been told about the beautiful, dangerous world of the Fae. But an ancient, wicked shadow grows over the faerie lands, and Feyre must find a way to stop it . . . or doom Tamlin—and his world—forever.

Perfect for fans of Kristin Cashore and George R. R. Martin, this first book in a sexy and action-packed new series is impossible to put down!

I have never, in my entire blogging life, read any of Sarah J. Maas' books. So while everyone was swooning and fangirling over her works, there is this little voice inside me wondering what the big deal was. And then I picked up a copy of A Court of Thorns and Roses and well, now I know. I really know why.

Where do I start? This is my poor attempt to put into words the magnificence that was A Court of Thorns and Roses. I realized quite a bit late into my reading that there was a touch of Beauty and the Beast in the story, but I can barely sense it because Sarah Maas just took this story to a whole new level that was wholly her own. How much of a creative mind does she have to be able to make this story as vivid and as memorable as it is?

There is Feyre, who lives for her family, hunting and doing everything she could to put food on the table and keep what's left of her once wealthy household together. I liked her for being a stubborn girl who consistently tries to be strong because she didn't want to get hurt anymore than she already does. Strong isn't the first word that comes to mind when I try to describe her, but her will to see things through and fight for what she wants made me like her. The way she can be a girl who skins a wolf, wield a bow, kill a naga and still be this vulnerable person who just wants to be loved and expresses her feelings best through colors and paints was an amazing contrast.

And then there's the men. If you see me on Twitter, I am consistently going back and forth through hitting my work table countless of times for Tamlin, and then trying to tear my hair out for Rhysand. It has been a long time since I have felt this conflicted over two different love interests. Yes, I said that. Tamlin... how do I even begin to describe you? Are you even real? (Wait, that was a rhetorical question!) He was by no means perfect, but I just loved how Sarah Maas fashioned his character to be this totally different person one expects. To be fiercely protective of his people, to laugh and smile and be powerful, compassionate, loving. To be scared and fascinated of him at the same time. And Rhys. Oh, Rhys. You just had to complicate things, huh? There are people in this novel who do not seem to be what they are at first glance and Rhys is a poster boy for that. Lethally beautiful, cunning, dark and mysterious, dangerous. He's the type of bad boy everyone is attracted to.

A Court of Thorns and Roses hosts a string of characters that are as unforgettable as the leads, like Lucien! That irritating but thoroughly entertaining mischievous friend of Tamlin who carries his own share of sorrows, Alis, even Feyre's sister, Nesta who I've come to love. All of them fit perfectly in the story, woven in to make it feel whole and complete.

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this book so much that even though I devour page after page and at one point felt like it was never going to end, I still pushed on, thoroughly mesmerized by how rich the setting was, how each word teased my mind and urged me to imagine the colorful, bright world Sarah Maas has crafted, wanting to know more. A Court of Thorns and Roses had a perfect balance of intrigue, romance, wickedness. I love how Sarah Maas managed to inject that human struggle as shown by Feyre in the various stages of her stay in Prythia, even when she went back home, portraying delicate emotions at the right time, and putting just the right amount of amorousness in the story to tease the readers. I have been finally exposed to Sarah Maas' stunning writing and my life will never be the same. Tension filled, gripping and heart rendering, A Court of Thorns and Roses is such an unforgettable read!

Everything, as they say, felt like magic.

What a sensational start for what is shaping to be an addictive series to watch out for! I have so much love for this book that I encourage everyone to read it!

My rating:

Content (plot, story flow, character):

Yep, must read more of Sarah Maas' books! I think I just got one of the best introductions for an author. I am still in awe at how imaginative Sarah is to craft such a book, and with the kind of writing that is rich and deeply engaging? Consider me a fan from now on.

Stunning: Worthy of a Goddess' Praise!

Book Cover:
Awesome depiction of Fayre!

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