Cover Reveal: The Fiery Heart by Richelle Mead

The Fiery Heart (Bloodlines #4)

By Richelle Mead

Release Date: November 19, 2013

Publisher: Razorbill

In The Indigo Spell, Sydney was torn between the Alchemist way of life and what her heart and gut were telling her to do. And in one breathtaking moment that Richelle Mead fans will never forget, she made a decision that shocked even her. . . .

But the struggle isn't over for Sydney. As she navigates the aftermath of her life-changing decision, she still finds herself pulled in too many directions at once. Her sister Zoe has arrived, and while Sydney longs to grow closer to her, there's still so much she must keep secret. Working with Marcus has changed the way she views the Alchemists, and Sydney must tread a careful path as she harnesses her profound magical ability to undermine the way of life she was raised to defend. Consumed by passion and vengeance, Sydney struggles to keep her secret life under wraps as the threat of exposure—and re-education—looms larger than ever.

Pulses will race throughout this thrilling fourth installment in the New York Times bestselling Bloodlines series, where no secret is safe.

My Thoughts: Well... if you haven't already seen this... CONGRATULATIONS!!! Anyway, I haven't read The Indigo Spell yet sadly, so I don't know about how the blurb of The Fiery Heart is. Well, at least it seems like the answer of who Marcus Finch has (if you haven't noticed the number of blogs participating in that... well... uh...) already been determined. Honestly, this cover isn't exactly one of my faves. I'm not sure whether this cover is trying to make a statement with an edgier cover and glare that the model is doing. All of the other covers of the previous books are way more polished and the models blend easily in with the fancy golden loops, but this one is just BAM! The color sticks with you, and that's about it. I guess that the fact that the cover is supposed to represent fire is the reason why the cover is in this condition, but seriously! At least have the models not look so blatantly out of place here. 

Cover Reveal: Fall of the Night by Rachel Caine

Fall of the Night (Morganville Vampires #14)

By Rachel Caine

Expected Publication: May 7, 2013

Publisher: Penguin Group

My Thoughts: There isn't a summary up yet for this book, so good luck! Not really a big fan of this series, which technically isn't true when I haven't even read the first book. Any series with more than the 7 book standard started by Harry Potter, I consider it overrated. Still, I can't deny that I think the cover's pretty and that I kind of respect a series praised by Richelle Mead. Anyway, I do plan to try this series out when I have the time and the empty book shelf for it.

What do you think?

Avenge Blog Tour: Awaken by Sarah M. Ross and Giveaway

Awaken (Patronus #1)

By Sarah M. Ross

eBook, 206 pages

Lucy Donovan was supposed to have a weekend of fun in the sun, celebrating her upcoming graduation from college. In a split second, everything changed. A drunk driver ended Lucy’s mortal life.

Lucy opens her eyes to a world she never imagined possible and a new destiny: as a Patronus, a guardian of spirits. Adjusting to her new role and abilities while negotiating this confusing realm will test her limits and push her further than she ever dreamed she would go. From wayward spirits who don’t want her help to soul stealing vampires, and even a stuck-up British royal, Lucy must brave them all to save one spirit she can’t bear to lose.

Further complicating her life is an inexplicable yet growing connection she feels to a member of her team, Max, whose mysterious behavior leaves her both confused and intrigued.

Waking up dead was just the beginning of her problems. Lucy’s death is about to become the greatest adventure of her life. --Goodreads

3 Stars

Review

If there is something about this book that struck out at me the most, it would probably be its similarity to Croak by Gina Damico. Many of the details of the world build in Awaken are either identical or very similar to the hilariously snarky Croak. Although I love Croak with a burning passion and can't dream of a single book about reapers comparing to its gory grim reaper glory, Awaken has its own quirks and charm that made it a fun read.

Awaken begins right off the bat with Lucy dead. Yup, no lag time between car accident and resurrection as angel, it's a smooth entrance to allow the story instantly grab attention, and it works. As I was reading Awaken, the fast-paced, exciting pace of this book instantly hooked me and left me dangling while I was away. It's just one of those reads that keeps a person pacing back and forth for what decisions and revelations will come out to add to the already daring plot. 

Unfortunately, what also struck at me was the ridiculous love story between Lucy and Max. By now, as a YA reader, I'm used to insta-love. But this was too much! The lovebirds go on a "should we admit that we like each other" by page 40. My feeling was like, "what in the world did I miss in the past 10 minutes?" The extreme insta-love was too much for me, causing me to kind of roll my eyes over all of the so-called romantic moments and Lucy's mooning over Max. 

When compared to Croak, this book isn't as satisfactory of a read. The romance is rushed at such a fast pace, the characters felt a bit unreal and unrelatable, and the book, overall, felt a tad bit immature for a book with a college student protagonist and many characters well above the 500 year old line. Perhaps if the book was longer than 206 pages, then it would be able to gradually build up intensity and emotions better. Despite my complaints, I cannot deny that I really enjoyed reading Awaken to my surprise.

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Review: A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness

A Discovery of Witches (All Souls Trilogy #1)

By Deborah Harkness

Published: February 8, 2011

Publisher: Viking Adult

Paperback, 592 pages

A richly inventive novel about a centuries-old vampire, a spellbound witch, and the mysterious manuscript that draws them together.
Deep in the stacks of Oxford's Bodleian Library, young scholar Diana Bishop unwittingly calls up a bewitched alchemical manuscript in the course of her research. Descended from an old and distinguished line of witches, Diana wants nothing to do with sorcery; so after a furtive glance and a few notes, she banishes the book to the stacks. But her discovery sets a fantastical underworld stirring, and a horde of daemons, witches, and vampires soon descends upon the library. Diana has stumbled upon a coveted treasure lost for centuries-and she is the only creature who can break its spell.

Debut novelist Deborah Harkness has crafted a mesmerizing and addictive read, equal parts history and magic, romance and suspense. Diana is a bold heroine who meets her equal in vampire geneticist Matthew Clairmont, and gradually warms up to him as their alliance deepens into an intimacy that violates age-old taboos. This smart, sophisticated story harks back to the novels of Anne Rice, but it is as contemporary and sensual as the Twilight series-with an extra serving of historical realism. --Goodreads

3.5 Stars

Review

Yes, yes, I know that this is supposed to be a young adult book blog and I'm reviewing an adult book. Yes, yes, I know that this book compares itself to Twilight, and in fact it's pretty much a rated R version of it. Yes, yes, I also know that I'm going to be ranting in this review, so I give you, the reader, the option to exit this review at once, or continue on to experience my take on A Discovery of Witches.

This book is basically a recollection of thousands of years worth of history being merged into a mere 600 page book full of tons of medieval and fantasy elements. It is definitely a unique take on vampires, witches and daemons that meshes perfectly with the modern world mixed with the dark fantasy aspects. There is something enchanting about forbidden romance drawing creatures of juxtaposing natures that A Discovery of Witches presents.

Unfortunately, I found Diana and Matthew to be clones of Bella and Edward, respectively. Their histories may be different, as well as interests, but the plot of A Discovery of Witches fell in to place as a perfect Twilight cycle. Girl is special = Vampire is attracted to her, "smells yummy." They fall in love over dinner  and danger causes them to hook up. I won't say that I hated this "retelling" of The Twilight Saga, but I wish that there was more originality in the plot.

Now that I think about it, I still loved reading A Discovery of Witches. Despite its unoriginal plot, the lyrical writing enhanced the beauty, the darkness of the ancient world magic. The story flew so quickly, even with the immense size of the book. It took me a month to get through this book. Seriously look at it! The length of the book is incredibly long with the ridiculously high page count and ridiculously puny font. Still, considering that I had enough patience to deal with this book is a miracle that can be explained by the entrancing nature of this book.

My review is basically just saying how this book was so addicting, like meth (but healthier), but still flawed. The beginning was a bit shaky, nevertheless as things progressed, I couldn't put A Discovery of Witches down for a second without dreaming about what was to come. At times, the plot was a bit messed up, but there was so much momentum and history building up. A Discovery of Witches is definitely a somewhat unique read that will drive the reader closer and closer to the mysteriousness of this world. I am definitely recommending this for all and cannot wait to read The Shadows of the Night. 

Purchase this book: Amazon/ Barnes&Nobles/ The Book Depository

Review: The Golden Lily by Richelle Mead

The Golden Lily (Bloodlines #2)

By Richelle Mead

Published June 12th 2012

Publisher: Razorbill

Hardcover, 418 pages

Sydney Sage is an Alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of humans and vampires. They protect vampire secrets—and human lives.

Sydney would love to go to college, but instead, she’s been sent into hiding at a posh boarding school in Palm Springs, California–tasked with protecting Moroi princess Jill Dragomir from assassins who want to throw the Moroi court into civil war. Formerly in disgrace, Sydney is now praised for her loyalty and obedience, and held up as the model of an exemplary Alchemist.

But the closer she grows to Jill, Eddie, and especially Adrian, the more she finds herself questioning her age–old Alchemist beliefs, her idea of family, and the sense of what it means to truly belong. Her world becomes even more complicated when magical experiments show Sydney may hold the key to prevent becoming Strigoi—the fiercest vampires, the ones who don’t die. But it’s her fear of being just that—special, magical, powerful—that scares her more than anything. Equally daunting is her new romance with Brayden, a cute, brainy guy who seems to be her match in every way. Yet, as perfect as he seems, Sydney finds herself being drawn to someone else—someone forbidden to her.

When a shocking secret threatens to tear the vampire world apart, Sydney’s loyalties are suddenly tested more than ever before. She wonders how she's supposed to strike a balance between the principles and dogmas she's been taught, and what her instincts are now telling her.

Should she trust the Alchemists—or her heart? --Goodreads 

 5 Stars

 

Review

Let me just get this over with and have my gush/swoon fest with Adrian. I absolutely love him and would totally take him if he didn't already love Sydney. He is just about on of the greatest guys ever, being so sweet, sexy and misunderstood. I just feel so sorry for him, being put down by his father his entire life, and having to deal with his father's disappointment when he doesn't live up to his expectations. Most people think of Adrian as a lazy, rich kid who likes to drink, party, and smoke, overall he isn't taken seriously. The only person who sees the true Adrian is Sydney, she realizes that Adrian is actually a really amazing person who is totally different than he pretends to be, and that he can really be a hero. I am really hopeful for Sydney and Adrian's future relationship.

Altogether, I think Sydney has grown quite a lot in this book. She drops her barriers and really comes to care about all of her Moroi friends, especially Adrian, and begins to question her beliefs. Let me tell you, that is an incredibly hard thing to do, to start questioning everything you know and have been brought up to think for your entire life. I give her major points for that, and I believe that she will eventually overcome all of her prejudices, and be with Adrian. 

I have also come to like Jill. All she wants is to have a normal and casual relationship with Micah, but she quickly realizes that it isn't possible. It is just too hard to keep so many secrets and date a human. I hope that things with her and Eddy come around, and that they start dating. The only thing that annoyed me was that she was still a bit naive with the whole modeling gig, I get how she really wants to do it (because she is really good at it), but still, it is a foolish idea that won't work out because she is Moroi and supposed to be in hiding. 

I am very happy and satisfied with where this book has gone with all of the romance, character development, and action and I can't wait 'till the next book comes out. I am going to die waiting for what happens with Adrian and Sydney's relationship! Why oh why does the next book have to come out in 2013? Sigh . . . I guess I'll just have to wait . . . anyway I greatly recommend this book, but before reading this you should read the first book, Bloodlines.   

  
Purchase this book at: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository

Cover Reveal: Through These Wicked Nights by Pixie Lynn Whitfield

 

Through These Wicked Nights (The Guardians of the Night #2)

By Pixie Lynn Whitfield

Release Date: January 8, 2013

The world isn’t the same anymore. Not since humans discovered vampires are real. Zarah and her new team of Guardians barely escaped and are in hiding. What once was her job of protecting them, now she is stuck cowering away as a new threat emerges from the humans: Hunters. War is approaching. To add to her list of growing problems, a group of Fallen have been living in The Compound. Seth is one she can't seem to resist. He teaches her a lot about the side of her she's never known about until recently. Draven has grown cold and distant again since the battle with Nathanial, and she is left feeling conflicted. These are the least of her worries though. Something else is up. A video is discovered with a shocking revelation, and Zarah has a feeling things are about to go haywire.

Everything is crashing down around her. If she doesn't do something soon, they all will suffer the consequences. Even if it means destroying her beliefs and extinguishing what little compassion she has left. --Goodreads

 

 

Review: Team Human by Justine Larbalestier and Sarah Rees Brennan

Team Human

By Justine Larbalestier and Sarah Rees Brennan

Published: July 3, 2012 

Publisher: HarperTeen

Hardcover, 352 pages

Just because Mel lives in New Whitby, a city founded by vampires, doesn't mean she knows any of the blood-drinking undead personally. They stay in their part of town; she says in hers. Until the day a vampire shows up at her high school. Worse yet, her best friend, Cathy, seems to be falling in love with him. It's up to Mel to save Cathy from a mistake she might regret for all eternity.

On top of trying to help Cathy (whether she wants it or not), Mel is investigating a mysterious disappearance for another friend and discovering the attractions of a certain vampire wannabe. Combine all this with a cranky vampire cop, a number of unlikely romantic entanglements, and the occasional zombie, and soon Mel is hip-deep in an adventure that is equal parts hilarious and touching. Acclaimed authors Justine Larbalestier and Sarah Rees Brennan team up to create a witty and poignant story of cool vampires, warm friendships, and the changes that test the bonds of love. -- GoodReads

3.5 stars

 Review


Hmmm...what can I say about this book? It's not amazing, but it's not boring either. Personally, I felt a bit irritated with some of the characters in this story, but that's just me. I was really only annoyed at the side characters. I liked the main character--Mel.

An American-born-Chinese, which is really not a heroine you see so much these days, she speaks her mind and kicks-ass when neccessary. I liked her because she's waay different than most heroines in vamp books. What I mean is--she isn't moony-eyed over a sparkly vampire *cough* *cough* Bella. In fact, Mel HATES vampires. A YA heroine that hates vamps in this day and age? Why wouldn't  I pick this up!?! Also, I loved Kit! He is DEFINITELY waaaay better than stick-up-the-ass-Francis.

The only two characters that I really couldn't stand were Cathy and, you guessed it, kill-joy-Francis. It's really just a personal tick of mine--I don't really mix well with people of their personalities. I suppose I'm similar to Mel? Dunno, but yeah. That's just me. In the end, I wasn't so pissed, especially once I reached the resolution.

The plot was definitely different, but it still wasn't totally original. I felt a bit of déjà vu and been-there-done-that feeling from reading this story. Don't get me wrong, it was still pretty good. It's like one of those stories that you can predict the ending, but you still like it anyway because of the main character. Honestly, there were a few times in this story where I could set it down and stop reading it and still be satisfied. That's why I give it 3.5 stars. Above average, nice caracters, pretty good plot, yet lacks the addictive juice and thrill of a 5 star.

I'd recommend this to anyone who likes, or hates vampires. (If you hate 'em, you'll love Mel.) I'd also recommend this one to people who enjoy reading realistic fantasy books. Other than the fact that there were vamps mixed into society, this reality wasn't all that different from ours. Also, one more thing. Get ready for some friends, fun, and vampy romance.

(Yeah yeah yeah, I know, the ending of that review sucked, but whatever. Have some great reads, kiddies, and see YA (ha, ha, get it?) next week!)

Purchase Team Human at: Amazon/ Barnes&Noble/ The Book Depository

Review: The Immortal Rules by Julie Kagawa

The Immortal Rules (Blood of Eden #1)

By Julie Kagawa

Published: April 24, 2012

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Hardcover, 485 pages

"In a future world, vampires reign. Humans are blood cattle. And one girl will search for the key to save humanity."

Allison Sekemoto survives in the Fringe, the outermost circle of a vampire city. By day, she and her crew scavenge for food. By night, any one of them could be eaten. Some days, all that drives Allie is her hatred of "them." The vampires who keep humans as blood cattle. Until the night Allie herself is attacked--and given the ultimate choice. Die...or become one of the monsters. Faced with her own mortality, Allie becomes what she despises most. To survive, she must learn the rules of being immortal, including the most important: go long enough without human blood, and you will go mad. Then Allie is forced to flee into the unknown, outside her city walls. There, she joins a ragged band of humans who are seeking a legend--a possible cure to the disease that killed off most of humankind and created the rabids, the mindless creatures who threaten humans and vampires alike. But it isn't easy to pass for human. Especially not around Zeke, who might see past the monster inside her. And Allie soon must decide what--and who--is worth dying for. - GoodReads

5 friggin' stars! Ohh yeah!

Review

This baby has got to be one of the most ultimate vampire YAs out there. What's not to love about this book? It's packed with action (yes!), romance (double yes!), well-placed comedy (the knee-slapping kind), many untold secrets (oooo!), and above all, VAMPIRES. Not to mention, the story is set in a post-apocalyptic style.

The main reason I loved this book was because of the characters. You're probably sitting there thinking, "What? Why the characters?" Well, lemme tell ya why. It's just a pet peeve of mine, but I just HATE, HATE, HATE, the generic wimpy, female character that always depends of someone else (namely, the male love interest) to do everything and won't change herself for the better. I just love it when there's a kick-ass heroine that won't let anything get in her way. 

Allie Sekemoto was exactly the heroine that I adored. She was strong, fierce, and followed through with everything she said. And the best part was: she wasn't some ditzy girl all about finding her true love. No, she was more focused on surviving than sucking on some guy's face. Thank goodness for that, right? Not only was Allie physically strong, but she was also mentally strong. That's another thumbs up for me. I also really liked Allie because, although she turns into a vampire, she still holds some humanistic qualities. She does doubt herself, she does get tired, she does have issues. 

And of course, with a loooovely heroine, we absolutely-positively-must-have-not-one-but-two-hunky-love-interests!!!  Hmmmmm, I don't know how much I should give away about Kanin or Zeke, but let's just say that I was totally on Team Kanin. To find out more, you'll have to read the book, dearies. :P

Julie Kagawa creates a perfect mix of our very-imperfect-world with the supernatural-fantasy-vampire-world. No character is perfect, and each has to deal with his or her own problems. Just like the real world. Well, if you sprinkle a few vampires here and there.

 This story is narrated in first person through Allie's POV, which is nice because the language is very understandable and easy to get through. It's not like some old guy is reading it to you--it's as if Allie herself is telling you what's going on. I have to be honest with you, this book is not about bunnies and sunshine. When she needs to be, Kagawa can write some pretty graphic scenes. Don't worry, it's not a horror story, but The Immortal Rules is definitely not about sparkly vampires. The story takes place right after a huge disease has spread around the Earth, (sorta post-apocalyptic??) so the story, (in my mind) has a bit of a dreary/depressing/sad/dramatic tone.

I gotta say, this book kept me hooked! The plot was pretty darn awesome too. If I remember correctly, I think I finished this one in a 2 or 3 days, max. Which is saying something, because I can get distracted pretty easily if a book is dragging along. This story was action-comedy-romance packed, and I really had no idea what to expect when flipping the next page.  For all those vampire-action-some-what-original-plot-lovers out there, I suggest giving this book a try! Trust me, you won't be disappointed. Well, at least I sure wasn't.

And, if you liked Julie Kagawa's Immortal Rules, I'd also suggest giving her Iron Fey series a try. I, myself, along with M, enjoyed them very much.

The Iron King (Iron Fey #1)
The Iron Daughter (Iron Fey #2)
The Iron Queen (Iron Fey #3)
The Iron Knight (Iron Fey #4)

Purchase this book: Amazon/ Barnes&Noble/ The Book Depository