Summer of The Mariposas by Guadalope McCall

Title: Summer of the Mariposas
Author: Guadalupe McCall
Publisher: Tu Books
Release Date: October 1, 2012
Pages: 355
Genre: Mexican- American Retelling of The Odyssey

"Fifteen-year-old Odilia and her younger sisters embark on a journey to return a dead man to his family in Mexico, and must outwit monsters and witches to make it back home again. "






The Summer of Mariposas is a Mexican-American Retelling of the Odyssey. It was about this insane quest that entailed returning the dead body of a middle-aged Mexican man to his family. This meant Odilia and her sisters had to cross the border to Mexica all while evading the police for running away and deling with mystical creatures. On top of that was the question on all the girls minds. Why did their dad leave them? And did they even want him back?

The Odyssey is such a good story, so when I heard there was a retelling of it for young adults I  jumped at the chance to read it. Boosting my excitement was that it was a Mexican- American
 retelling of the Odyssey. I loved all the culture that added to the story. It also didn't hurt that that
meant the setting took place in both America and Mexico.

Another thing that I felt added to the story was it's lack of romance. That might be suprising but the story didn't need it. The story had so much going for it and if a romantic relationship had been factored in it just would've affected it negatively. The relationships of the sisters and their mother was probably the most important part of the story.

The sisters thought of themselves as forever bonded. Their relationship was so deep. Their love for eachother meant everything. But things happened to cause that bond to falter and begin to break. The epic journey they went on helped to bring that sense of closeness back. It also helped them to recognize things about both their other and their father that they may have not wanted to recognize before. The journey ended up changing their lives as dramatically as it did for the hero in the Odyssey.

The writing style was very different to me. It was written so that Spanish words were thrown in here and there. They never confused me, they only drew me deeper into the story. However, if you might find that confusing ther's a glossary of Spanish words located conviently at the end of the book. Another thing I liked abou the story was the way it was narrated. It was never narrated too emotionaly but it was emotional enough to make certain that I cared about the characters and their quest.

There was one thing that bugged me about the story. It was divided into three parts and before each part it gave a summary of what happens. I fell for it every time so that I always knew what was going to happen. I just couldn't seem to stop myself from reading it. So if you want to read this book remember to skip over those parts.

The story definitely had a lot of action in it due to it's relations to the Odyssey. At the same time, it was also about about a journey which meant that it had many factors of a contemporary novel too. It consisted of drama, family ties, betrayals, mystical beings, and monsters (both human and paranormal). These characteristics made for a good read and I am on the look out for Guadalupe McCall's next books. Because of that I would recommend this story to fans of road trips, family relationships (not in the romantic way!), and, of course, the Odyssey.

4/5 mugs of pipimg hot chocolate

Entice by Jessica Shirvington

Title: Entice
Author: Jessica Shirvington
Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire
Release Date: September 12, 2012
My Rating: 4 stars
Pages: 438
Genre: Paranormal- angels

Violet Eden is Grigori - part angel, part human. Her destiny is to protect humans from the vengence of exiled angels.
Knowing who to trust is key but, when Grigori reinforcements arrive, it becomes clear everyone is hiding something. Even Lincoln. The only thing Violet does know: Phoenix's hold over her is more dangerous than ever.
The race to find the one thing that could tilt the balance of power brings them all to the sacred mountains of Jordan, where Violet's power will be pushed to the extreme. And the ultimate betrayal exposed.

Enticed is the second compelling book in The Violet Eden Chapters.

Warning: This is a review of the 2nd book in the series. It may contain small spoilers of the first book.

I wasn't too impressed with Entice, the first book in this series. I felt that the writing fell short and the plot was cliché. TI picked this book up for a couple reasons. One is that I have a hard time quitting on a series. It takes a lot to make me not finish a series. The other reason is that I was bored and looking for some simple entertainment. This book delivered on the entertainment part but it was far from simple. I felt that the story became more unique and developed in this book. This book changed my opinion of the series quite a bit.

The writing, to me, seemed very good. I did find it to be too simple a few times. I don't think I would've noticed that if it hadn't bothered me in the first book. It wasn't too bad in this book. Besides that I really enjoyed the writing. It flowed, gave me an insight on the characters/ setting, and was an overall success.

After everything that happened, Violet's life is finally beginning to settle. As much as it can for a human who's part angel anyway. She is getting used to her angelic status and even meeting people her age in the same situation as her. They're having fun together all while saving the world. Their fun is interrupted when Phoenix shows up. He needs something and needs Violet and her friends help to get it. To add to the drama, Lincoln is in cahoots with Magda doing something secret. Something that may be endangering his life.

The story was fast-paced and filled to the brim with action. I was never bored. At all. The only problem with the plot was that there almost seemed to be too much going on. Moments that should've been important weren't a bi deal. The cliffhanger at the end of the story didn't shock me too much because there was a couple cliffhangers (big moments) throughout the story. That wasn't necessarily a bad thing. After all, it's hard for a story to have too much action.

Violet is a strong person. She went through a lot with her mom's death, dad's distant attitude, and betrayal of a major person in her life: Phoenix. But she became a stronger person because of it. She wasn't afraid to jump into battle or put her life at stake for others. Phoenix's presence (literally) wasn't very strong. He only showed up in the book a few brief times and appeared evil for most of it. He never really got to tell his side of the story. Hopefully he will in the next book. There was a lot more Lincoln in this book. You get to know him better despite his secret. I ended up realizing what a good person he was. I just wish he would stop being so stubborn about his relationship with Violet. Then there was Violet's best friend. Steph is a very likeable character because she was supportive of Violet but not annoying about it. Finally, there was the new Grigori in town: Zoe, Salvatore, and Spence. I really liked Spence. He became close with Violet and was a good friend.  He was a bit of a troublemaker, but that only made the story better.

Besides the action there was also quite a bit of drama. With three new Grigori in town it was bound to happen. Added to that is the reappearance of an old (and evil) character. Lincoln and Violet are still trying to work through the risks of their relationship while dealing with secrets and the jealousy of other people. There was a ton of stuff happening. I loved it.

In conclusion I found Enticed to be a very enticing book (yes, I went there). The plot was just so amazing. I really want to see more of Violet and finds out what happens next. With any luck there will be more of Phoenix in the next book so I can find out what's going on there. Seriously people I need the next book. Anyway, I would recommend this book to fans of paranormal/ action-packed stories or angel stories. This book is begging to be read.

 Add On Goodreads

 

Storm

Title: Storm

Author: Brigid Kemmerer

Publisher: Kensington

Release Date: April 24, 2012

My Rating: 4 stars

Pages:  353 pages

 

Becca Chandler is suddenly getting all the guys all the ones she doesn't want. Ever since her ex-boyfriend spread those lies about her. Then she saves Chris Merrick from a beating in the school parking lot. Chris is different. Way different: he can control water just like his brothers can control fire, wind, and earth. They're powerful. Dangerous. Marked for death.

 

And now that she knows the truth, so is Becca.

 

Secrets are hard to keep when your life's at stake. When Hunter, the mysterious new kid around school, turns up with a talent for being in the wrong place at the right time, Becca thinks she can trust him. But then Hunter goes head-to-head with Chris, and Becca wonders who's hiding the most dangerous truth of all.

 

The storm is coming.

 

 

This is the first full length novel by Brigid Kemmerer. Brigid's writing was pretty darn good. There were a couple times where I thought sentences should be rephrased in order to flow better. However, it didn't affect the story too much. Other than that I liked the writing.

 

The plot was what really made the book. It was fantastic. It was always moving and always developing. Seriously, I read this book in one sitting. It's the type of book that keeps you up for hours despite that math final in the morning. I mean, after reading the synopsis I thought it sounded a bit cliché. After all, I've read quite a few books about Elementals. I thought it's been done. That was definitely not the case. This book is something new, something that's never been done before.

 

Becca was another reason why I thought this book was fantastic. She was kick-ass but made relatable for several reasons. She had been hurt big-time and didn't know what to do about it. She dealt with social pressures. Also, it was shown how she was afraid in her kick-ass moments yet she persevered. When Becca inadvertently gets involved with the Merrick brothers, her life changes drastically. Because these brothers aren't what they seem. Sure they're a tight- knit family that jokes around and plays sports. But they have a secret to protect. And Becca just found it out.

 

The youngest Merrick brother Chris was definitely a character. He was tough yet kind. Sensitive yet jealous. He was complicated and it showed. He was forced to grow up too fast along with his brothers. His loneliness showed, which is probably why he cared more for her than his secret.

 

I've raved about this story for quite some time now. Unfortunately, there was a reason this book lost one star. I felt that, although the plot rocked, there were some minute details that could've been explained a bit better. Also, there was a love triangle. Surprisingly enough it wasn't cliché and the other guy just might have a chance (I refuse to spoil anything). Then one of the guys does something completely out of character. It made no sense to me.

 

Even though there was a couple things that bugged me, I loved this book. It kept me up late and I know need to get the next book in the series. Asap. I would recommend it to older teens, fans of paranormal books, and fast-moving plots. Just remember not to read it if you have a math test the next day. And don't start reading it at night.

 

Memorable Quotes

 

• “Casper, she said someone has to hold your leash.”
  The dog barked.
  Then he dipped his head, picked up the end of the leash in his mouth, and trotted after his master.”
• “I shouldn’t have hit him.” She flexed her fingers. “My hand still hurts.”
  Chris smiled. “Oh, no, I loved that part.”  
• “You're probably thinking I owe you my life."[Chris]
  "No." she [Becca] snapped.
  "Just sixty bucks."
  "You charge for the hero act?" [Chris]”  

 

Burn for Burn

 

Title: Burn For Burn
Author: Jenny Han & Siobhan Vivian
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Release Date: September 18, 2012
My Rating: 4 Stars
Pages: 368 pages

BIG GIRLS DON'T CRY...
THEY GET EVEN.

Lillia has never had any problems dealing with boys who like her. Not until this summer, when one went too far. No way will she let the same thing happen to her little sister.

Kat is tired of the rumours, the insults, the cruel jokes. It all goes back to one person– her ex-best friend– and she's ready to make her pay.

Four years ago, Mary left Jar Island because of a boy. But she's not the same girl anymore. And she's ready to prove it to him.

Three very different girls who want the same thing: sweet, sweet revenge. And they won't stop until they each had a taste.


I love Jenny Han's Summer Trilogy, which is why Burn for Burn was on my must read list.  As soon as I read the premise of the story, I knew I needed it. I'm so glad I read it. the writing was complex yet simple, descriptive, it flowed... Over all, the writing rocked!

I think a lot of what happened in Burn for Burn was expected. Not the minute details of the plot but the general ideas of revenge and the affect it had on both the avengers and the "villains". However, I enjoyed the story a lot and despite my predictions, I was pleasantly surprised multiple times throughout the story. Because this is a book unlike one I've ever read.

There were three girls who were wronged and therefore three main characters of this story. I was horrified at what had happened to these girls, especially Mary. Mary dealt with so much and I was glad she was able to function at the level she was. She was a sweet girl who just needed a friend. She found those friends in Kat and Lillia, who had one goal in common: revenge. Lillia had everything. She was popular, had an amazing family, and was rich. Some of the people in her life, though, aren't as nice as they seem. And when one of them goes after her little sister, she knows what she has to do. Kat went through almost as much as Mary. She was poor and a loved one died a few years back. Right after that devastation her best friend dropped her like a rock. Now that she's back on her feet, she can't let it go. It's time for her ex-best friend to pay.

Near the end of the story, something... odd happened to make me wonder if this book is really just a contemporary read. Thankfully, this is the first book in a series. I'm also glad of this because several things really need to be resolved. For instance, something major happened to Lillia and she's kept it a secret ever since.

I have to admit I was a little confused at the beginning of the story. I felt that the girls voices could've been a bit more defined. Their voices blurred into each other a bit and I found myself forgetting whose pov was who's. But, this only happened at the beginning of the story. 40 pages in or so, I got over this.  I was also a little disappointed with the ending. Don't get me wrong- it was a good ending. Great, even. But I feel like it had the potential to be even better.

In the end, Burn for Burn was definitely a thrillingly good start to a trilogy. It was very different from Jenny Han's cute summer series but it definitely had it's perks. I'll certainly be reading the next book once it comes out. Fans of contemporaries with a touch of something paranormal will love this book. Also, if you've been a victim or like reading about victims avenging themselves go ahead and check out this book.

Until I Die by Amy Plum

Title: Until I Die
Author: Amy Plum
Publisher:  Harper Collins Publisher
Release Date: May 8th 2012
My Rating: 4 stars****
Pages: 357

Kate and Vincent have overcome the odds and at last they are together in Paris, the city of lights and love.

As their romance deepens there’s one question they can’t ignore: How are they supposed to be together if Vincent can’t resist sacrificing himself to save others? Although Vincent promises that he’ll do whatever it takes to lead a normal life with Kate, will that mean letting innocent people die? When a new and surprising enemy reveals itself, Kate realizes that even more may be at stake—and that Vincent’s immortality is in jeopardy.

In Die for Me, Amy Plum created a captivating paranormal mythology with immortal revenants and a lush Paris setting. Until I Die is poised to thrill readers with more heart-pounding suspense, spellbinding romance, and a cliff-hanger ending that will leave them desperate for the third and final novel in the series

Until I Die by Amy Plum is a prime example of how an author's  writing improves with each book that they write. I am so glad I stuck with the series even though I found the first book to be simply OK for me.

Amy Plum's writing was very good. Her simple writing became something beautiful in this story. Her descriptions, the flow of her writing, dialouge- everything got better. I was actually very impressed with her writing this time around. It added something great to the story, which helped make the characters/ plot that much more captivating.

And oh the action! The book started out strong and ended with those dreadful things known as cliffhangers. There was hardly a dull moment in between the beginning and the end. Something big is happening. But this time it could mean the end of Vincent. Literally. It's upto Kate to find out what's going on and to stop it, hopefully before she digs herself to deep. Because this time there might not be anyone to save her.

The characters became more 3 D. Kate and Vincent were just as likeable as ever. Their love for each other was pure and real. They were perfect for each other. However, characters like Georgia and Jules became more tangible, more real. Jules joking demeanor finally cracked when he showed concern for Kate and a fierce loyalty to Victor. Georgia proved that behind the flirt, there was a person there who would always be there for her sister. Two new characters were introduced in this story: the revenants Violette and Arthur. Violette acted sweet and her age of deat (14) showed itself on multiple ocassions, which I thought was cute. Arthur acted like a crumpy old man and annoyed me.  At the same time, I wish I had gotten to know a couple of the characters a little better. Maybe I will in the next book.

There were a couple of reasons why I didn't give the book 5 stars. I'm going to try to say this witout spoiling anything so here goes nothing. A majorly important characteristic of Kate's in the first book disappeared in this one. The same characteristic she used to possess was suddenly given to Georgia. I was mentioned multiple times in the first book how Georgia didn't possess this trait. Also, like I said before, certain characters that include JB and Charles remained distant. I didn't get to know them as well as I'd have liked to.

I have high hopes for the next book in the series. I feel like Amy Plum's writing talent can only increase from here. Maybe some of the misunderstandings that caused me to keep the book rating at 4 stars will be explained. I'll have to read it to find out. I think that any fan of paranormal books with romance, supernatural books, mysteries, strong heroines, or just fans of ya books in general would like this book. So don't hesitate: go ahead and check it out.

Memorable Quotes

 

•  “Vincent to Kate: “The day I stop seeing you as one of the strongest people I know is the day I wake up human.” 
• “And I've got THIS," I pulled out the signum and held it up for him to see, "that says I'm kindred. And I've got THIS," I pointed at my head, "that says I'm as smart as you. And I have THIS," I held up my middle finger, "that says go to hell, you immortal bigot."
  And with that I spun around and stomped out the door, filing the expression on Arthur's face in a mental folder labeled "Kate's Proudest Moments".”
• “Those are pretty," She commented, leaning down to smell the flowers.
  "They're from Violette," I said, watching for her reaction.
  "They look like weeds," she replied, straightening.”
• “Natural talent!" crowed Vincent, sweeping my sweaty self up into his arms and pacing across the room, holding me like a trophy. "Of course my girlfriend's got it. In truckloads! How else could she have slain a giant evil zombie, single-handedly saving my undead body?” 
   

Soulbound by Heather Breawer

 Title: Soulbound
Author: Heather Brewer
Publisher:  DIAL

Release Date: June 19, 2012

My Rating: 4  stars!

Pages: 394 pages 

"Tril is a world where Barrons and Healers are Bound to each other: Barrons fight and Healers cure their Barrons' wounds in the ongoing war with the evil Graplar King. Seventeen-year-old Kaya was born a Healer, but she wants to fight. In Tril, and at Shadow Academy, where she is sent to learn to heal, it is against Protocol for Healers to fight. So Kaya must learn in secret. Enter two young men: One charming, rule-following Barron who becomes Bound to Kaya and whose life she must protect at all costs. And one with a mysterious past who seems bent on making Kaya's life as difficult as possible. Kaya asks both to train her, but only one will, and the consequences will change their lives forever."- Goodreads 

Heather Brewer wrote a suspenseful start to a kick- ass series. It was descriptive and her word choice flowed. I was never confused, thank goodness. I've ready enough confusing books lately. I enjoyed her writing a lot, especially the usage of the word fack instead of f*ck. I'm not entirely sure why, but I found that hilarious.
 
The plot was unique in many ways. The main character of the story, Kaya, sacrifices her happiness for her parents. Against her good judgment she goes to a school that teaches what her kind has been doing for thousands of years. Healing the Barrons. The Barrons are the reason humans didn't go extinct long ago. They fight the monsters whose diet consists of humans. Healers are special they can because  they are born bound to a Barron and it's their sole purpose in life to protect them. Also, there was a mystery, which I thought was a great addition to the story.

However, some traits of the plot were the norm. Their was a love triangle. I don't dislike these as much as insta-love, so it didn't completely turn me off the book. The love triangle, thankfully, was believable. There was also the mean girl who tormented Kaya because of a guy. That was basically it though.

Kaya was the best main character I've read about all year. All year! She comes in first place even above Ismae from Grave Mercy. And I love Ismae. Kaya was put in a prejudice  school where next to no one realized just how bad it was. But she chose to be tough and do the right thing. She wasn't forced into it, she was just that kick-ass. I admire her for that. Then there was her best friend Maddox, who albeit a little dislikable at first ended up pulling through for her. Darius was definitely a jerk at first, but he was just putting up a show. He has a scarred past and doesn't want anyone to know about it especially Kaya. Trayton is the guy who Kaya becomes bound to. He follows the rules and doesn't question things. So what happens when Kaya comes along?

There was, however, one thing I didn't like. Parts of the book were predictable. Not all of it but enough for me to cringe. Especially when the so- called cliffhanger was something I figured would happen at the beginning of the book.

I enjoyed this book immensely, despite the couple of things that bugged me. Kaya made the book for me. She was tough and real at the same time. It was suspenseful, with a bit of mystery, a ton of action, friendship, and romance. This book made my top ten books of 2012. Anyone who likes a good ya book with a tough main character should get this book.

 

Amy and Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson

Title: Amy and Roger's Epic Detour
Author: Morgan Matson
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Release Date: May 4, 2010
My Rating: 5 stars
Pages: 344

"Amy Curry thinks her life sucks. Her mom decides to move from California to Connecticut to start anew--just in time for Amy's senior year. Her dad recently died in a car accident. So Amy embarks on a road trip to escape from it all, driving cross-country from the home she's always known toward her new life. Joining Amy on the road trip is Roger, the son of Amy's mother's old friend. Amy hasn’t seen him in years, and she is less than thrilled to be driving across the country with a guy she barely knows. So she's surprised to find that she is developing a crush on him. At the same time, she’s coming to terms with her father’s death and how to put her own life back together after the accident. Told in traditional narrative as well as scraps from the road--diner napkins, motel receipts, postcards--this is the story of one girl's journey to find herself."- Goodreads

I know I'm extremely late reading this one. I read Morgan Matson's second novel a few months ago and loved it. So when I saw this book at the library I grabbed it. And I don't regret my decision, even a little bit.

Amy & Roger's Epic Detour is a cute story. It is about a road trip and a summer story to top that off. It has a few pictures, receipts and other tokens from the trip printed to the book. It also has a lot of music and the author told us what the songs were. I need to look into some new songs now! However, it's not just a cute story, it also deals with the death of a loved one and a broken teenager. It's a story of finding oneself amongst strangers, dealing with heartbreak, and forgiveness.

Amy, like I said before, is broken. Not only did her dad die recently but she has to move to a new country. She was there when her dad died, and it's apparent that she carried that guilt with her. When Roger is thrown into the mix as her chauffer, she was afraid. Afraid that he would see inside of her and find out exactly what she did/ what happened to her. She eventually opened up to Roger and we got to know Roger better too. Roger has his own issues and a detour was just what they both needed.

By reading about Amy's and Roger's travels, I almost felt like I was traveling with them. The descriptions of the places visited were described well. I always knew where the setting was but it wasn't described in too much detail. I liked that because Amy  and Roger visited so many places. Too much detail would just overwhelm the story.

I don't have much bad to say about this book. I would have liked to read more about Amy's family, but it's a road trip without them. That wouldn't make much sense. I honestly don't have anything else bad to add. This book is a keeper.

Although it doesn't sound like cute belongs with serious, Morgan Matson made it work in her debut novel. I think all fans of contemporaries should give it a try. It was just such a great book- I can't say that enough! I'll be on the lookout for Morgan Matson's next book.

Memorable Quotes

 

• “Tomorrow will be better.”
  “But what if it’s not?” I asked.
  “Then you say it again tomorrow. Because it might be. You never know, right? At some point, tomorrow will be better.”  
• “It’s not about the destination. It’s getting there that’s the good part.
• “There was no In-N-Out in Connecticut, because clearly that state wa"s an inhospitable wasteland.”  

Goodreads         Amazon

Seraphina by Rachel Hartman

Title: Seraphina
Author: Rachel Hartman
Publisher: Random House
Release Date: July 10, 2012
My Rating: 4 stars
Pages: 467

"Four decades of peace have done little to ease the mistrust between humans and dragons in the kingdom of Goredd. Folding themselves into human shape, dragons attend court as ambassadors, and lend their rational, mathematical minds to universities as scholars and teachers. As the treaty's anniversary draws near, however, tensions are high.

Seraphina Dombegh has reason to fear both sides. An unusually gifted musician, she joins the court just as a member of the royal family is murdered—in suspiciously draconian fashion. Seraphina is drawn into the investigation, partnering with the captain of the Queen's Guard, the dangerously perceptive Prince Lucian Kiggs. While they begin to uncover hints of a sinister plot to destroy the peace, Seraphina struggles to protect her own secret, the secret behind her musical gift, one so terrible that its discovery could mean her very life.

In her exquisitely written fantasy debut, Rachel Hartman creates a rich, complex, and utterly original world. Seraphina's tortuous journey to self-acceptance is one readers will remember long after they've turned the final page."- Goodreads

Rachel Hartman is obviously an experienced author. The way she wrote Seraphina was simply splendid. It was very well written. The descriptions were fantastic and engaging . She took something used like shape shifting and turned it into something completely her own.

Seraphina is lonely. She grew up knowing not to get attached to people. Because if they ever found out the truth about her, they'd discover a beast in disguised as a human. For forty years now, there has been peace between dragons and humans. But that doesn't mean people have to like it. Most people despise dragons and want them gone. Permanently.

Chaos is simmering beneath the surface of long- standing peace. Someone is working hard to destroy the fragile bond between species that the Queen worked so hard to build. After a series of events, Serephina is dragged right in the midst of it along with Prince Lucian. It's up to them to discover just what's going on and stop it, while it's possible.

Seraphina didn't have an easy life and it's apparent in her actions. She shies away from anything that could expose her secret, which I understood. It was a bit annoying at first but throughout the story she began to grow as a person and stop hiding herself. Her uncle Orma was probably my favorite character. He was very complex, and although it often didn't seem like it, he loved Seraphina. He was always there for her even when no one else was. The princess was ok. Although she was pampered, she still managed to act courageous and even nice. Finally, I had mixed feelings about Prince Kiggs. He could be a jerk but it was only because he didn't want to be betrayed.

The world Seraphina lived in didn't need time to grow on me. I loved it from the start. It was a medieval setting but with a fantasy aspect to it. Seraphina traveled to several different places and met many people. The places all began to feel real to me and it was sad when the book ended.

However, there were a couple things that bugged me. The plot took a while to pick up and I found myself wondering when the story building would end. Also, I got quite sick of Seraphina despising herself. She refused to see anything good about herself even though (I don't want to spoil anything here so I'll be vague) she admired a dragon.

In conclusion, I did enjoy this book and will definitely stick around for the next one. It was a great read, especially for fantasy readers. Although the world was so defined that dystopian readers would also like it. Plus, there's shape shifting which means paranormal readers might want to check out this book.

Memorable Quotes:

 

• "Sometimes the truth has difficulty breaching the city walls of our beliefs. A lie, dressed in the correct livery, passes through more easily.”  
• “I cannot perch among those who think that I am broken.”
• “I became the very air; I was full of stars. I was the soaring spaces between the spires of the cathedral, the solemn breath of chimneys, a whispered prayer upon the winter wind. I was silence, and I was music, one clear transcendent chord rising toward Heaven. I believed, then, that I would have risen bodily into the sky but for the anchor of his hand in my hair and his round soft perfect mouth.”  
• That’s the secret to performance: conviction. The right note played tentatively still misses its mark, but play boldly and no one will question you. If one believes there is truth in art – and I do – then it’s troubling how similar the skill of performing is to lying. Maybe lying is itself a kind of art. I think about that more than I should.”  

Trailer

 



 

Add on Goodreads

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer



 

Title: The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer
Author: Michelle Hodkin
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books For Young Readers
Release Date: September 27, 2011
My Rating: 3.5 stars
Pages: 452 pages

"Mara Dyer doesn’t think life can get any stranger than waking up in a hospital with no memory of how she got there.

It can.

She believes there must be more to the accident she can’t remember that killed her friends and left her mysteriously unharmed.

There is.

She doesn’t believe that after everything she’s been through, she can fall in love.

She’s wrong."- Goodreads 

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer was a debut novel by Michelle Hodkin. I was extremely excited to read this book because of all the hype other bloggers and reviewers posted about it. I'm so glad I did end up reading it because it was one of the strangest books I've ever read. In a good way of course. This book was just so unique- it was a fantastic break from all the other paranormals and dystopias I've read lately. Sadly enough, I can't rate this book as highly as I'd like to.

The writing was okay. It was descriptive enough that I could always follow the story but not overly so. There weren't too many adjectives but everything was described just enough. At some points in the story, I found that the setting changed suddenly, which was a bit disconcerting. It felt a bit disjointed.

The storyline was insane. I'd never read anything like it, and the plot kept me guessing throughout the entire book. Mara has no idea what happened to her the night before she ended up in the hospital.  As the reader, I was forced to keep guessing along with Mara, even though Mara had flashbacks occasionally. Unfortunately, at times the plot leapt past unique straight to confusing. There were certain situations in the story that made no sense, and I had to reread those passages only to find that I still didn't understand them. I eventually just had to move on and  keep reading. In the end, a lot of things were explained, yet even more questions were brought up with these explanations. The book ended with a cliffhanger, though, and I am eager to read the next book.

Mara Dyer was someone I felt an instant connection with. She stood up for her friends and was a reliable person to know. She didn't immediately jump into Noah's arms when he showed interest, even though he was the most popular/ cutest guy at school. Noah was a good guy: he had a bad reputation but it was for an understandable reason. Their relationship built up over time, so that a strong bond was built between them. It was clear they loved each other and were willing to sacrifice themselves for the other. Mara's parents were annoying. Her mom was manipulative and refused to take into account what Mara wanted. She always thought she knew best but often had no idea what was going on. Her dad was hardly ever home because he was a lawyer. Mara's brother was a loveable character who defended Mara against her parents to no end. I couldn't help but love him.

I did think that the end was a bit rushed. One thing I know for sure is that I will be reading The Evolution of Mara Dyer. I am eager for more and hope the loose ends will be tied. I'm also hopeful that with a published book under her belt, Mara Dyer will create a five star masterpiece in her second book. All in all, it was a book worth reading.

I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a break from the norm. If you're sick of dystopias/ paranormals/ contemporaries this is the book for you. This book is so unique that I didn't even know what sub genre it was until the end. The ending of this book will make YA fans eager to read the next one.

Memorable Quotes:

• “There's nothing I want. There's nothing I can't do. I don't care about anything. No matter what, I am an imposter. An actor in my own life.”                                                                                    - Michelle Hodkin, The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer   
• “I was warned about you, you know."
  And with that half-smile that wrecked me, Noah said, "But you're here anyway.”
    -Michelle Hodkin, The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer   
• “Thinking something does not make it true. Wanting something does not make it real.”      -Michelle Hodkin, The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer

         

Add On Goodreads

Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard

 Title: Wanderlove
Author: Kirsten Hubbard
Publisher: Delacorte Books
Release Date: March 13, 2012
My Rating: 3.5 stars
Pages: 338 pages 

" It all begins with a stupid question:

Are you a Global Vagabond?

No, but 18-year-old Bria Sandoval wants to be. In a quest for independence, her neglected art, and no-strings-attached hookups, she signs up for a guided tour of Central America—the wrong one. Middle-aged tourists with fanny packs are hardly the key to self-rediscovery. When Bria meets Rowan, devoted backpacker and dive instructor, and his outspokenly humanitarian sister Starling, she seizes the chance to ditch her group and join them off the beaten path.

Bria's a good girl trying to go bad. Rowan's a bad boy trying to stay good. As they travel across a panorama of Mayan villages, remote Belizean islands, and hostels plagued with jungle beasties, they discover what they've got in common: both seek to leave behind the old versions of themselves. And the secret to escaping the past, Rowan’s found, is to keep moving forward.

But Bria comes to realize she can't run forever, no matter what Rowan says. If she ever wants the 
courage to fall for someone worthwhile, she has to start looking back.

Kirsten Hubbard lends her artistry to this ultimate backpacker novel, weaving her drawings into the text. Her career as a travel writer and her experiences as a real-life vagabond backpacking Central 

America are deeply seeded in this inspiring story."- Goodreads

It is illustrated throughout  Wanderlove how well traveled and imaginative Kirsten Hubbard is. She's traveled in Guatemala before and it shows. Her description of the different places in the book are so well written and descriptive that I felt like I could just close my eyes and be exploring the Mayan villages of Guatemala. It was truly amazing. The writing in the story flowed very well and everything was described in such a manner that I always knew exactly what was happening. One of my favorite 

parts of the writing, besides the descriptions, was the dialogue. It was real and heartfelt and just fit the story perfectly.

Recently graduated Bria Sandoval is doing something she's only ever dreamed of: she's traveling in a foreign country. The only problem is that she's stuck with a tourist group filled with stuffy people that have no sense of adventure. So, when she meets Starling and her brother Rowan, she takes a chance and agrees to travel with them. She finds herself falling in love with Rowan while trying to get over her ex. Bria doesn't know it, but she's about to learn some very important things about herself and become a better person because of it. 

I had a hard time liking Bria at first because she lied quite a bit. She told her first lie on the 2nd page of the book. But I eventually got over it when I began to understand why she lied. Scarlet, however, 

was a completely different story. I liked her almost immediatly. She didn't take shit from anyone and wasn't afraid to be tough. I especially liked how she was always loyal to her brother no matter what he did. Rowan was a complex person. At first he appeared a little mean, but as I got to know him better I realized what a great guy he was.

Throughout the first part of this book, I had difficulties reading it. The story was a bit slow and I found Bria annoying. Once, I got over that, I enjoyed myself more. Another issue I had with the story was the ending. It felt a bit unbelievable to me. I felt that the story could've had an extra 100 pages to build up more of a relationship with the main characters. At the same time, the writing was superb and I loved the premise of the plot.

This book would be perfect for people who like ya contemporary books. Especially ones about journey's or books with the setting in a foreign country.

The Way We Fall by Megan Crewe

Title: The Way We Fall
Author: Megan Crewe
Publisher: Hyperion
Release Date: January 24th 2012
My Rating: 4 stars
Pages: 309

"It starts with an itch you just can't shake. Then comes a fever and a tickle in your throat. A few days later, you'll be blabbing your secrets and chatting with strangers like they’re old friends. Three more, and the paranoid hallucinations kick in.

And then you're dead.

When sixteen-year-old Kaelyn lets her best friend leave for school without saying goodbye, she never dreams that she might not see him again. But then a strange virus begins to sweep through her small island community, infecting young and old alike. As the dead pile up, the government quarantines the island: no one can leave, and no one can come back.

Those still healthy must fight for the island’s dwindling supplies, or lose all chance of survival. As everything familiar comes crashing down, Kaelyn joins forces with a former rival and discovers a new love in the midst of heartbreak. When the virus starts to rob her of friends and family, she clings to the belief that there must be a way to save the people she holds dearest.

Because how will she go on if there isn't?

Poignant and dizzying, The Way We Fall is the heart-wrenching story of one girl's bravery and unbeatable spirit as she challenges not just her fears, but her sense of what makes life worth living."- Goodreads

Sophomore author Megan Crewe wrote such an emotion evoking book that I don't think I'll ever forget it. The Wat We Fall is the first book in the Fallen series.She wrote The Way We Fall in the form of diary entries. Normally, I would be annoyed by reading diary entries because they often feel like summaries. The Way We Fall was written so beautifully that I soon forgot everything but the story before me.

Kaelyn is a normal teenager: she wants what most teenage girls do. Friends. A boyfriend. A good relationship with her family. All that changes, though, when a deadly virus sweeps the island she lives on, killing everyone it touches. Horrified, the world puts the island in quarantine. And everything changes.

Kaelyn was a girl I couldn't help liking. Smart and resourceful, even in the face of almost certain failure, she never gave up. The other major characters of the story were all three- dimensional and well- rounded that I fell completely in love with each of them. There was Kaelyn’s loyal family who would do anything for each other. Then there was the best friend who repeatedly endangered herself for Kaelyn. Kaelyn’s adorable younger cousin was someone I couldn’t help but feel for. There was the sweet boyfriend with a hero complex. I even felt for the resident villain, which is saying something. Although I despised one of the characters at first, by the end of the story I didn't know what I'd do without them.

Unfortunately, there's a reason why I gave the book four stars. For the first part of the book, I found what was happening stressful had trouble enjoying it. However, I was soon drawn into the book and forgot my fears. Also, I felt that some of the deaths were unnecessary. Basically, there were just a couple of things that bothered me.

In the end, the good outnumbered the bad. I'd recommend The Way We Fall to fans of apocalyptic stories/ sad stories. Keep in mind that The Way We Fall isn't for the faint of heart. Although the deaths aren't graphic, it is an apocalyptic story and many people die. But  most of all I recommend this book to people who love characters that never give up.

Memorable Quotes:

“You learn a lot when you know no one else is going to do things for you.”

  “Most people think the scariest thing is knowing that you’re going to die. It’s not. It’s knowing you might have to watch every single person you’ve ever loved – or even liked – waste away while you just stand there.” 

Add On Goodreads