Saturday, November 30, 2013

Review: These Broken Stars by Amie Kaufman & Meagan Spooner

I'm working on figuring out my feelings for this book. I'm still not sure how I feel. I think I will end up giving it a three star. But probably a three point five. But I'm not sure. Because I had some issues with the beginning. Took me forever to get started. But then I finally did, and it did get better. But not perfect.

I don't know how to talk about how I felt about this book. So my review will not be long. Because right now I'm thinking mostly a few negative thoughts and I'm not going to share most of them. But I need to talk a little bit about the things I disliked. And the things I actually did like. Though not nearly enough. Sigh.

My issue with These Broken Stars was that I couldn't fall in love with the writing. I wanted to. I always want to like the writing in a book. But this time I just couldn't. I didn't like the way the characters were thinking a lot of the time. I didn't like some of the things they did as well. But for the most part I did enjoy the characters. Which is why this is a three star book. Because I did enjoy it, but I didn't love it. I liked the story and characters.

But I only liked all of it for the most part. Sometimes I didn't enjoy the characters at all. They did some things that annoyed me. But I didn't really hate that, because I have read worse characters. And I kind of adored Lilac and Tarver. For the most part. And I enjoyed the romance. Probably. Well, I found it to be sweet. It doesn't happen right away. But when it does, it happens the way I want it to. And it's real and sweet. But yeah. I'm not sure I believed in their bickering in the beginning; so I didn't enjoy that.

It took me months to be able to read more than the first few pages of the book. But then I finally did it. And I did enjoy the beginning more this time. But I still disliked a few things in the first few pages. But anyway. I am glad that I read These Broken Stars. Because I did think it was an interesting book. And I learned a few things. But it wasn't one of my favorite books. But oh. I just read the summary for the companion novel; and I think I will like that one even more. So I will be reading that one too :D

I'm not going to say much more about this book. The story is interesting. So much happens. I loved reading about the new planet. It was awful yet I wanted it even more awful. The story is told from the point of views of Lilac and Tarver. I liked Tarver the most, but Lilac grew on me. There aren't many more characters in this book. And I liked that even more, hih. There are scenes that were sad, but did not make me cry. Which upset me a little bit. But I still felt things while reading this book. Mostly.

Anyway. That's all I'm going to say about this book. I thought These Broken Stars was an interesting book and I mostly enjoyed reading it. The story was pretty beautiful. Though I kind of wish it had been more. But then, it may just be me and the way I read books. I wish I had loved this book more. But then, I just couldn't. And I'm okay with it. Because while I did not love this, I still mostly enjoyed it. And I do think you should all read this when it comes out on December 10th. Also, isn't the book just gorgeous? :)

Anyway. I waited so many months before I read this book. I got it in May. I think. And I just read it. I tried it a few months back, but like I mentioned, I had issues with the beginning and the writing. So I put it off. But anyway. I finally did manage to read it. And I'm happy I did. But also a bit sad that I didn't like it more. I wish I had loved it. Because I could have had. If the writing had been better for me. But damn it; I just can't enjoy a book if I don't enjoy the writing. It happens often. But it wasn't awful.

I want to thank the publisher, Disney Hyperion, for sending me this gorgeous print ARC a few months back. <3 I'm sorry for taking so long to read it, but I'm glad I read it. And I will be keeping my ARC, as it is so gorgeous. I will also be pre-ordering a hardcover of the book as well; since I did enjoy it :)
UPDATE: I forgot to add a teaser from the book that I wanted to share. It has now been added. <3

~

I lean down, my hair falling forward around his face, and let my lips find his.
For and instant I feel him reach for me, and all I want is to lean against him,
let him wrap me up, keep me close. All I want is for no one to take him away.


~

In My Mailbox #109

This has been a pretty awful week. I got a cold last weekend and it seemed to last forever. It was awful. I wasn't able to do anything. No reading. Didn't feel like reading anything at all. Sad face. But then I finally managed to read These Broken Stars; which I'm writing my review for. So only got to read one book this week. Hoping to read more next week, but we'll see what I feel up to. Anyway. I did not get much in the mail this week. Which also made me really sad, as so much is still missing or just lost. That always upsets me. Sigh. But anyway. I am happy with what I got. <3 What did you get this week?




The Seven Realms. I just had to get this pretty boxset. And fantasy series! Reading pretty soon :D
Catching Fire. Pre-ordered ages ago. It looks pretty awesome and I'm loving it a lot. Pretty :)
Pocahontas. Finally owning this in blu-ray :D I'm hoping to re-watch it pretty soon. Probably. <3
The Jungle Book. This movie is kind of adorable. And I just had to get it in blu-ray; since, classic.
Crash Into You. Not sure when I will read this. Maybe soon. Maybe not. But, it is pretty, at least :D
Pawn. I need to read this soon. As I also have it twice via Netgalley ;p I am excited. For the most part.
The Little Mermaid. Blu-ray is the best, but I also need to own all the classics in DVD form. <3 Pretty.
The Princess and the Frog. Been a while since I watched this movie. Think I must re-watch it soon :D
Bolt. As I did get such an awesome price for these five classics I had to get Bolt in blu-ray. <3 Adore.





And then I got accepted for Vengeance via Bloomsbury UK :D THANK YOU! So happy. <3 Hoping to read it pretty soon. Sigh. Very happy, as Bloomsbury US seems to hate me on Netgalley. Hih. 






In My Mailbox is an weekly meme made by The Story Siren.

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Waiting on Wednesday #111

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

THE OFFERING (The Pledge #3) BY KIMBERLY DERTING

Goodreads Description:

True love—and world war—is at stake in the conclusion to The Pledge trilogy, a dark and romantic blend of dystopia and fantasy.
Charlie, otherwise known as Queen Charlaina of Ludania, has become comfortable as a leader and a ruler. She’s done admirable work to restore Ludania’s broken communications systems with other Queendoms, and she’s mastered the art of ignoring Sabara, the evil former queen whose Essence is alive within Charlie. Or so she thinks.

When the negotiation of a peace agreement with the Queendom of Astonia goes awry, Charlie receives a brutal message that threatens Ludania, and it seems her only option is to sacrifice herself in exchange for Ludanian freedom.

But things aren’t always as they seem. Charlie is walking into a trap—one set by Sabara, who is determined to reclaim the Queendoms at any cost.


Hardcover, 304 pages
Expected publication: December 31st 2013 by Margaret K. McElderry Books
Pre-Order here.

I'm dying to read The Offering. Loved the first two books so extremely much and I just need to know what happens next :) But oh, it feels like forever since I read the first two; though it was less than a year ago. But I just can't wait to read this. <3 Wishing for awesome romance with Charlie and Max :)
What are you waiting for? 

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Cress Tuesday #5

After having read Cress I got this idea that I wanted to share a small Cress teaser with you all every Tuesday this year. I will not share which page the teasers are from, and I will not share any spoilers. Just want to share some amazing things to get you all more excited for Cress; because it is amazing. <3 So every tuesday here on my blog will be a Cress Tuesday. I'm pretty excited about it :D Hope you enjoy.
The teasers are from my ARC copy of Cress and may not be the same in the finished copy. <3


~

The corner of his lips twitched, but it was halfhearted and quickly faded as he turned his face away from her. He opened his mouth to speak, but hesitated, before, finally, he sought out her hand again.
"Yeah, I guess you're right," he said, squeezing. "Maybe there's a little bit of a hero in me after all. 
But ... really, Cress. Only a little."

~ 


My five stars review of Cress

Was allowed to do this by Marissa and Macmillan; Thank you. <3 Marissa is the best. Check out her amazing website :D I'm also very much in love with the Lunar Chronicles facebook. So pretty. I hope you enjoy the teasers :) There will be one teaser each Tuesday. Can't wait for you all to read Cress :)


Saturday, November 23, 2013

In My Mailbox #108

I'm not sure yet what to think of this week. I have not been sleeping good or feeling good but I suppose I'm feeling better. Maybe. A bit upset still about some author drama a week ago, but yeah. I'm learning to let go. But this was also a good week, despite the fact that I only found the time to read two books. The Winner's Curse and Cruel Beauty. But they were perfect. So amazing. Loved them so much. Sigh. Hoping to read more soon. Probably. I also got the best package from HarperCollins International. <3 And my sister and nephew finally came home as well. And last night I went to see Catching Fire. I think I loved it. But my god. I will never ever forgive Katniss for being such an asshole towards Peeta. Sobs. Though I did get the need to re-read all the books.. it's been so many years since the last time. But I'm also worried, because I know how much I will hate many things. Sigh. What did you get this week?


Gorgeous books from HarperCollins International. <3 Thank you so so so much! Loving them.
Faking Normal. Already read this via Edelweiss, but holy crap, it was such an amazing book. <3
Cruel Beauty. Just read this one :D So perfect. It was amazing. And you all need to read it. Soon.
No One Else Can Have You. Hoping to read this one soon, as I do think it sounds pretty amazing.
Into the Still Blue. Read this via Edelweiss, but BEYOND happy to have my own copy :D So perfect.
Uninvited. Reading this soon. <3 So excited as I adore Sophie. Think it will be amazing. <3
Her Dark Curiosity. Still worried about liking this one :( Sobs. But I will read it. <3 Soon. I hope :)


Frozen. Hih, a few more gorgeous Frozen books. <3 I can never tire of getting them either.
Disney Classics. Didn't have these in blu-ray yet. <3 And oh, they are all amazing movies!
Horizon. Uhm.. yeah. I still haven't read the first three. But now I own them all, so yay? :)
The Grip of God. I won this from Historical Fiction :) Thank you. <3 Unsure if it's for me.
Swag. Gorgeous swag from Amalie Howard. <3 Thank you so much. I love it a lot :) Pretty.
Mindee Arnett. Gorgeous The Nightmare Dilemma and Avalon bookmark. <3 THANK YOU.


Frozen. So. I bought some GORGEOUS Frozen puzzles via Ebay. Then the seller was such an asshole and I had to pay tons in taxes for them. He is refusing to refund me. So I'm pretty upset about it. But, I am happy with the puzzles. Because they are gorgeous. Truly. But so pissed off at seller!
Moomin. This is my advent calendar this year. <3 And I love it. It's so pretty, hih. I love Moomin :)


Dragons: Defenders of Berk. My own mini Hookfang! And a different version of Toothless. <3 They are both so gorgeous and I love them so much. Still need to buy a few more dragons, but I'm getting there :)
Moomin. Really wanted this moomin plush as I think it is adorable. And it is. It's so so pretty :)

In My Mailbox is an weekly meme made by The Story Siren.

Friday, November 22, 2013

Review: Cruel Beauty by Rosamund Hodge

Oh, I don't know how to describe my feelings for this book. I loved it. But I also took forever to start reading it, as I tried the beginning months ago but couldn't get into it. Then I got a print ARC of it and I tried again. Still had issues with the beginning, but I got through it, and it got so good. So glad that I read it.

I really enjoyed Cruel Beauty. It was a heartbreaking and beautiful book. The writing was amazing as well. But oh, I'm not sure I will get over that ending. On one hand it was so perfect. But holy crap. When I start thinking about some of the things that had happened my heart breaks. So cruel. And so perfect.

I'm not sure how to talk about this book. I don't want to give away the plot, so I don't think my review will be very long. But oh, there are some gorgeous characters to talk about. And I loved them all so much. Well, some I hated with a passion, but those don't count. I thought this book was done really well. It's very interesting and I needed to know what would happen next.

The characters in this book are all done so well. I loved reading about them all. The book is told from the point of view of Nyx, who has been told all her life what she needs to do to save the land. And oh, my heart just broke for her. She's an amazing character. Though she does have a little dark heart. Which I adored. I just, I kind of really hated her family. So much. Her father was not kind at all. I hated him. And I didn't like her sister, Astraia much either. But she grew on me. Well, maybe not that much :D

There is so much happening in this book. I'm not going to describe it. But oh. We learn so much. Some things bored me a tiny bit, but most of the things that happened had me very excited. But anyway. The plot focus around the Gentle Lord. Who is mostly a demon. And oh, I loved reading about him. He's a lot of cruel, but he's also not just that. He's very interesting to read about. And I loved him to pieces. We learn so much of him yet never enough. He must have been my favorite character :) I adored him.

I do suppose some would call the beginning of this book a love triangle. But I wouldn't say so. Shade is an interesting person. Well, first of all, he is mostly a shadow with no colors. But, hih, it didn't bother me that Nyx had some feelings for him, because I had peeked at the ending before starting. And although the ending may have told me too much, it also told me just enough not to be bothered by some things. And I did enjoy reading about Shade. Though he too did some pretty evil things. Sigh.

We get to see many scenes between Nyx and Ignifex. And I loved them all. They are fun to read about. Some things were a bit heartbreaking. They bicker a lot. And I loved it to pieces. They are adorable together. And I loved reading about the slow romance between them. It was perfect. Just wish there had been even more. Sigh. Though there were a lot. And it was so good! It was the best. Anyway. I really loved this book. And I loved the characters so much. And that amazing story line. So good.

I don't want to talk about the plot. Because that would mean thinking about it. And that would mean having my heart broken again by something that happens at the ending. Even though I loved it, it still breaks me when I think of a certain thing. Sniffs. But anyway. Cruel Beauty is amazing. It's so so good and I think you all need to read it when it comes out in January. I know I cannot wait to re-read it. And to own the gorgeous hardcover. <3 Sigh. I need all the copies of this amazing heartbreaking book.

Huge thank you to HarperCollins International for the print ARC of this gorgeous book. <3 So happy that I got to read it! I will always treasure it. Thank you also to the publisher for accepting me via Edelweiss months ago, though I didn't end up reading my eARC of it, hih. But I did read the book, and I'm so happy. But oh! I need a sequel. I really, really, really want a sequel to this book. <3

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Waiting on Wednesday #110

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

THE NIGHTMARE DILEMMA (The Arkwell Academy #2)
BY MINDEE ARNETT


Goodreads Description:

The second in a thrilling new fantastical mystery series

Dusty Everhart might be able to predict the future through the dreams of her crush, Eli Booker, but that doesn’t make her life even remotely easy. When one of her mermaid friends is viciously assaulted and left for dead, and the school’s jokester, Lance Rathbone, is accused of the crime, Dusty’s as shocked as everybody else. Lance needs Dusty to prove his innocence by finding the real attacker, but that’s easier asked than done. Eli’s dreams are no help, more nightmares than prophecies.

To make matters worse, Dusty’s ex-boyfriend has just been acquitted of conspiracy and is now back at school, reminding Dusty of why she fell for him in the first place. The Magi Senate needs Dusty to get close to him, to discover his real motives. But this order infuriates Eli, who has started his own campaign for Dusty’s heart.

As Dusty takes on both cases, she begins to suspect they’re connected to something bigger. And there’s something very wrong with Eli’s dreams, signs that point to a darker plot than they could have ever imagined.


Hardcover, 336 pages
Expected publication: March 4th 2014 by Tor Teen
Pre-Order here.

I'm very excited to read The Nightmare Dilemma. I really enjoyed book one and I just need to know what happens next :D And oh, I really want some awesome Dusty and Eli romance. <3 Pretty please? Cannot wait to read it, either way. Also really adore Mindee. She's pretty amazing :) Wish it was out already!
What are you waiting for? 

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Cress Tuesday #4

After having read Cress I got this idea that I wanted to share a small Cress teaser with you all every Tuesday this year. I will not share which page the teasers are from, and I will not share any spoilers. Just want to share some amazing things to get you all more excited for Cress; because it is amazing. <3 So every tuesday here on my blog will be a Cress Tuesday. I'm pretty excited about it :D Hope you enjoy.
The teasers are from my ARC copy of Cress and may not be the same in the finished copy. <3


~

"As someone who understands why you did this, and admires your ability to actually 
accomplish it, I am-pleading with you. Cinder. Please. Take me back." 
She filled up her lungs. "No."

~ 


My five stars review of Cress

Was allowed to do this by Marissa and Macmillan; Thank you. <3 Marissa is the best. Check out her amazing website :D I'm also very much in love with the Lunar Chronicles facebook. So pretty. I hope you enjoy the teasers :) There will be one teaser each Tuesday. Can't wait for you all to read Cress :)

Monday, November 18, 2013

Review: The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkoski

Books like this one is what I crave. Books like The Winner's Curse is what I wish I could be reading all the time. Because I loved it so much. I knew from the very first page that I loved the writing. And then I knew that I loved the main character and story. This book was just all kinds of beautiful and perfect.

I started reading it this afternoon and I could not stop until I had finished it. It was just so good. I was interested in what was happening at all times. I loved the writing all the time as well. The writing was beautiful. Just the way I like it. And it had the most amazing characters. I adored and hated them all.

I'm not sure how to describe my love for this book. The gorgeous writing. The amazing characters. The stunning world created. Or, all the heartbreak. The slow and painful romance. The betrayals. That awful and kind of perfect ending. I loved every part of this book. Even those who broke my heart. Which surprised me a bit, since I'm usually not a fan of heartbreak.

But the heartbreak in this was done really well and not in that usual way where the authors create love triangles. No triangle in this book. Thank god. There is some drama, but not like some other books I have read. Considering this is a Fantasy book. And it's just so perfect. Sigh. I can't get over how much I enjoyed it. So thankful that I got an eARC of it. There will be no spoilers in my review. Though I'm not sure the review will be very long, as there isn't that much more I can say about it, without spoiling it :)

The Winner's Curse is told from two different point of views. First there is Kestrel, daughter of a general. She's amazing. I just loved her so much. She has a few faults, but I did not dislike her because of them. She has a pretty amazing life. She has this huge mansion sort of house. And I kind of loved reading about it. Sigh. Though I do not approve of slaves, they were interesting to read about. I hated that Kestrel's mom was dead. Broke my heart. But oh, I loved her love of music. It was so amazing.

I just loved reading about Kestrel's life. She was an amazing main character and I adored her. I loved reading about her friends as well. Like Jess and Ronan. They were sweet and they were true friends. Like when this scandal thing happened. People turned their backs on her and that broke my heart. But those two never did. So yeah, I pretty much adored them. Though I'm happy that Kestrel didn't seem to like Ronan like Ronan loved her. That made me happy. Though I'm sad for him, because he was great.

The other point of view in this book is from Arin. And oh. I really loved him too. He was amazing and I adored him. But seriously. He keeps a lot of secrets and he does some things I thought were really stupid. But I also couldn't truly blame him, because his life was so sad and it broke my heart. But oh, he is an amazing person, despite the lies. I loved reading about the slow romance between him and Kestrel. Just, wish there was more. Sobs. But it was also just so perfect and honest and I adored it to pieces.

I'm not sure what else I should say about this book. It was perfect. So much happens. There is a lot of deaths. Those broke my heart a bit. But I also loved them. The story in this book is beautiful and heartbreaking. It was always exciting. The romance was so sweet. I just really loved everything in this book. But yes. Heartbreak. So much of it. And kind of evil ending. I'm dying for book two. Dying. Anyway. Most of the characters in this book were amazing. But some were so evil. Grrr. Still, loved it.

I'm so glad that I read The Winner's Curse. But also so depressed that I don't have a gorgeous print ARC of it. But still. I cannot wait to get my hardcover of it when it comes out in March. It will be gorgeous, I just know it. Because the cover is so pretty, I think. Sigh. This book was just amazing and you all need to read it. You really do. Thank you so, so much to Macmillan Kids and Ksenia for the chance to read and review The Winner's Curse via Netgalley. <3 Meant so much to me. And I'm so happy that I read it :)

Goodreads - Pre-Order

Update: Newer and better review of the book can be found here.

Saturday, November 16, 2013

In My Mailbox #107

I'm not sure how to talk about this week. It's been awful. My stomach is the worst and I've just not been feeling good at all. I didn't get too much this week, but I got some pretty books. <3 I was also at the hospital getting more medicine a few days ago, which was good, but holy crap, my stomach is feeling worse right now, not better. Hoping it will pass. Anyway. What did you get in the mail this week? <3






Frigid. Heh, another book by Jennifer (A) Though I have yet to read anything by her. Soon, though :)
Divergent + Insurgent. Gorgeous "Adult" editions. But, is there on of Allegiant too? Can't find it.
Crash Into You. Gorgeous bookmark and ribbon that I got from Katie :D Thank you. <3 Love them.
Veronica Mars. I was a part of the kickstarter project :) So excited. This t-shirt is gorgeous. Stickers :D
Champion. Another different edition of it. <3 A bigger paperback. And I think it is very gorgeous.
Shades of Earth. Pretty paperback edition. I have all three of the new paperback covers. <3 Love them.
Warm Bodies. I didn't own this movie yet, and it's been some time since I saw it. Loved it, though :)
Silver Lining 's Playbook. Bought on sale with first movie. I think it seems like a good movie; hope so.
The Host. Heh, not sure when I will watch this one as I'm not sure I will like it. But, I'm hoping.





Frozen. A few more Frozen books, hih. <3 Just had to get them. And they are so pretty. Sigh.


Angry Birds. Had to get these :D It's from the Mash'Em series. And I love love these so much.
Cat. Hih, got this while I was in another town a few days ago. <3 It is adorable and I love it.
How To Train Your Dragon. Gorgeous Toothless and Stormfly. <3 Going to order all of them :)





I got invited by Macmillan Kids to read The Winner's Curse via Netgalley. <3 I cannot wait! Think it sounds awesome and I really hope I will love it. Reading it pretty soon, I hope. Thank you so much Ksenia. <3 You are the best.






In My Mailbox is an weekly meme made by The Story Siren.

Friday, November 15, 2013

Review: Love Letters to the Dead by Ava Dellaira

When I downloaded this book via Netgalley, I wasn't sure if I would enjoy it. But I had to give it a try, because that cover is so gorgeous. And then I started reading this yesterday. And it was amazing. I loved it so much, though I had a couple of small issues with it. But mostly I really loved and enjoyed this book. 

I will not post spoilers in my review. Except for a few near the end, but with a warning first. So anyway. I really liked this book. At first I was unsure of the writing, since the main character, Laurel, is writing letters to dead people. Most of whom I did not know.. but anyway. The whole book is like that. 

And I really loved it. Because the writing is good and it does feel just like a normal written book, because Laurel writes about everything, mostly. I liked that it was written like many letters. Even without knowing who most of them were, hih. But it was creative and interesting and I enjoyed it a lot. Plus, the writing is really good. I loved it. Which is always a plus :)

I'm not sure how to talk about this book. The writing is stunning, like I said, and the characters are amazing. The story is pretty awesome too. We get to know a lot about Laurel and her life with her dad and her Aunt Amy. We learn about her relationship with her mother, and oh, that was a bit heartbreaking. I didn't like her mother much. I did understand that she too was heartbroken, but still. Don't think I could have forgiven her for moving away from Laurel after the accident. It just wasn't fair.

You see, Laurel's older sister, May, just died. And we learn why and how and it broke my heart. But oh, how I loved it. It was done really well and real. Laurel really loved May. They were the bestest friends and I loved that. But, May also did some bad things. Laurel probably didn't know it all until later, but still. I wish we had gotten to know that side of May. She seemed really interesting. But, I also hated her a bit. For the things that happened to Laurel because of her. Heartbreak. So much. But also very good.

There is a lot of things happening in this book. I won't talk about it all. Just that it is a beautiful story but so painful and heartbreaking. Yet I may have wished for more heartbreak. I'm evil like that. Just, I want heartbreak with a romance. I think that the couple should be able to stay together. But anyway. There are so many amazing characters in this book and I enjoyed them all so so much. Sky is the best. He's sweet and so cute. He has a tough life and those parts broke my heart. But he's still amazing.

Laurel also get some really amazing friends in this book. Hannah and Natalie were amazing. I loved reading about them so much because they have their own story. And it was so good and sweet and so damn heartbreaking. Sigh. But I loved it. And Tristan and Kristen. They were amazing as well. I just enjoyed reading about them all and I really enjoyed this story. Wish there had been even more, though. The story is done really well. As is all the characters. There is some romance and it's perfect. Mostly :)

I have decided to give this book a four point five star. Or a four star. I'm not sure. For the most part I really loved it. But then close to the end, something happened that I did not enjoy and it broke my heart a bit. So, a few spoilers. I hated that Laurel didn't tell Sky what was going on. Because she was so broken, and he too, so he broke up with her. I hated it. But I understood him. I wanted her to share it with him, and she didn't. They were apart for weeks. Which is why this was not a five star book for me.

Continue with the spoilers. That was the part I hated. Even though I understood it, I did not approve of it at all. I hate it when the couple is apart for stupid reasons. And Laurel not trusting Sky enough was a stupid reason. Weeks went by. With Sky kissing someone else. Which I did get, because he was alone. With no one. Laurel had her friends. Even her dad. Sky had no one and it broke my heart. I just wish there had been a little bit more love for him, since I felt the book focused more on Laurel's issues.

Anyway. That is what I had to say about this book :D No more spoilers. While I disliked that part, I loved the rest of the book. Because the beginning is amazing. The end is good too. Though I really wish to know what happens next. I would love to read a sequel; to read more of Laurel and Sky and Hannah and Natalie. Ohh, and Tristan and Kristen too. I really hope they make it together. So anyway. I thought Love Letters to the Dead was an amazing book. It's beautiful and heartbreaking. I really did love it a lot.

Thank you so much to Macmillan Kids and Netgalley for the chance to read and review Love Letters to the Dead early. <3 I'm so glad I read it. And I will be ordering a hardcover, because I need to own my own copy of this gorgeous book. I think you should all read this book when it comes out on April 1st. <3

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Cover Reveal: Island of Legends by Lisa McMann

I cannot wait to read Island of Legends. I loved the first three books in The Unwanteds series; there will be a total of seven books. And I'm so excited for them all! This is such an amazing middle grade series and I love it so much. Just wish this book was out before September 2nd 2014. <3 I'm just so excited for it. And holy crap, this cover is gorgeous! I love it so much. It's a bit creepy too. Sigh. All the covers for this series are gorgeous. Wish there was a summary, though :) What do you think of this cover? <3




Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Review: Sekret by Lindsay Smith

I had issues with this book. I wanted to love it, and I tried to love it, but I could not. Will explain why, and I will try not to post any spoilers for the book, since it isn't out until April :) Really wanted to read this book because of the summary; as it reminded me a little bit of the books by Elizabeth Wein.

I don't know how to talk about my feelings for this book, because I don't have much positive to say about it. That makes me sad, but it's the truth. I just did not love this book. I didn't hate it either, but yeah. I did not enjoy it. I wanted to, I really did. It took me three days to read this.

My issue with Sekret was that I didn't manage to enjoy the writing. Which really sucked. Because I need to love the writing if I'm going to have any hope of enjoying the book. But I just couldn't in this one. I wasn't able to stop thinking about the way it was written, and it just wasn't for me. But I do think that others will enjoy it. Just not me and my weird ways of reading a book :) But anyway. I didn't only have troubles with the writing. I also had issues connecting to the book. I didn't feel anything for the characters. I might have felt something for Valentin, but then Yulia sort of ruined it with the way she was thinking. Sigh. I wanted to enjoy all the characters, but I just couldn't. Didn't understand them.

The plot in this book is interesting. Not perfect, as I seemed to be confused most of the time and some things were described too much and others too little. I liked that the book was set in Russia, just a bit upset that almost nothing of Russia was shown. That sucked a bit. I was a bit confused about how old the characters were, since no age were given for any of them, except for Yulia. I think. There are a lot of things about this book I wish were better, but I was happy with it. Kind of. No love, though. Sigh.

I just don't know what to say about this book. I'm not going to discuss the plot, because there is a lot to talk about and I feel it would be spoilery. Though, this book focus on psychic teenagers. We get to read about so many characters, too many names for me to remember. I enjoyed a few of those. Most I found to be annoying and a bit badly written. But anyway. I sort of enjoyed reading about their psychic powers. Though I felt like I didn't get to know nearly enough about any of them, which made me a bit sad.

The book is told from the point of view of Yulia. I wish I could say I liked her, but really, I didn't connect with her so I didn't find her that interesting. I didn't enjoy the time jump in the beginning, because so much about who Yulia became was just skipped ahead. I didn't understand why Sergei was so kind of in love with her from the very beginning. It was annoying, as I didn't like him either :p Sigh. I wish I could have loved them all. I wanted to. But yeah. I just didn't and I'm sad about it, but kind of happy as well.

Then there was Valentin. I felt like we didn't get to know enough about him. There is some romance between him and Yulia, but I felt like it wasn't done well enough. And we didn't get to see much of it. Especially not since Yulia kept second-guessing him all the freaking time. It got very annoying. But anyway. I did enjoy reading about Valentin. He was pretty interesting. But not enough for me to enjoy the book. Anyway. That is mostly all I have to say about this book. Others will probably love it, though :)

I have decided to give Sekret a two star rating. Near the ending I considered a three star, but no. It wasn't that good for me. But even though I didn't enjoy this book most of the time, I'm still glad that I read it. Somewhat. I considered giving up on it a few times, but I was interested in seeing how it ended, and that made me continue. I liked the ending for the most part. The romance part was good. But oh, I am curious about what happens next. There must be a sequel. I would read it, I think :)

I'm very grateful to Macmillan Kids and Ksenia for this gorgeous print ARC copy. <3 Thank you so, so much for the chance to read this book early. I'm sorry I didn't love it, but still glad that I read it :)

Waiting on Wednesday #109

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

VITRO BY JESSICA KHOURY

Goodreads Description:

A death-defying tropical adventure delivers a frightening message about dabbling with creation from the talented author of Origin.

On a remote island in the Pacific, Corpus scientists have taken test tube embryos and given them life. These beings—the Vitros—have knowledge and abilities most humans can only dream of. But they also have one enormous flaw.

Sophie Crue is determined to get to Skin Island and find her mother, a scientist who left Sophie behind years ago. She enlists hunky charter pilot Jim Julien to take her there. But once on the island, Sophie and Jim encounter more than they bargained for, including a charming, brilliant Vitro named Nicholas and an innocent, newly awoken one named Lux.

In a race for their lives, Sophie and Jim are about to discover what happens when science stretches too far beyond its reach.


Hardcover, 384 pages
Expected publication: January 14th 2014 by Razorbill
Pre-Order here.

I am SO EXCITED for Vitro! I really, really loved Origin. <3 And I cannot wait to read more from Jessica. Especially from the same world. Sigh. I'm just so excited and I just know that I will love this book. January can't get here fast enough. <3 I really, really love the cover as well. It's simply gorgeous.
What are you waiting for? 

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Cress Tuesday #3

Hi! After having read Cress I got this idea that I wanted to share a small Cress teaser with you all every Tuesday this year. I will not share which page the teasers are from, and I will not share any spoilers. Just want to share some amazing things to get you all more excited for Cress; because it is amazing. <3 So every tuesday here on my blog will be a Cress Tuesday. I'm pretty excited about it :D Hope you enjoy.
The teasers are from my ARC copy of Cress and may not be the same in the finished copy. <3


~

"And speaking of regonizing you as the true queen..." She shriveled into her seat, squeezing 

Wolf's hand. "Miss Linh, I have spent years planning for for the time when I would find you again. 
You should have come to me straightaway." Cinder wrinkled her nose. "That's precisely why I didn't."

~ 


My five stars review of Cress

Was allowed to do this by Marissa and Macmillan; Thank you. <3 Marissa is the best. Check out her amazing website :D I'm also very much in love with the Lunar Chronicles facebook. So pretty. I hope you enjoy the teasers :) There will be one teaser each Tuesday. Can't wait for you all to read Cress :)


Saturday, November 9, 2013

In My Mailbox #106

This have been a hard week for me. My stomach has been awful and because of that the rest of my body sucks as well. So I've been in a lot of pain this week and it sucks so much. Just waiting for Thursday to arrive, when I get to go get more medicine. But anyway. I did get a whole bunch of amazing things this week :D That made things a little bit better. I wish I could have read more, but I did read two books. Happy with that. Know what book to read next, just not sure when I will feel up to reading. Hopefully soon. Anyway. So happy with everything this week :D A lot of pictures. What did you get this week?


The Shadowhunter's Codex. Have three different editions of this one, and they are all so gorgeous.
The Iron Traitor. US copy. Just as gorgeous as the UK one, if not more. These books are so pretty :)
She Is Not Invisible. Review copy gotten from Macmillan. <3 Thank you SO MUCH! Excited to read :)
Sentinel. I.. have yet to read a book by Jennifer. But I'm going to. Just need to own them all first, lol ;p
The Trap. Not sure when I will read this one, but I am very excited to read it. It does look amazing :D
Teardrop. Hih, I just had to order this one with Allegiant. It is beautiful and I do think it sounds good.
Allegiant. Another different edition (A) Signed as well. I LOVE IT! It is pretty amazing and so pretty.
Legend Box Set. I needed this amazing box set. It is beyond gorgeous. I love it so, so much. <3


Frozen. Hih, I just love getting all these Frozen books. They are all so gorgeous. Love Look and Find :D
Revelations. Damn it. Another book I will not read; peeked at ending. Waiting for book three first :)
Champion. My pretty gorgeous hardcovers. I have read the book and mostly loved it. It was awesome.
Divergent International Edition. I just had to buy this one as well. Paperback edition box set :) Pretty.
Cold Spell. Reading this next, I think. I adored the other books in the series, and I'm excited to read it.
Daybreak + Ann Aguirre Swag. Got these via Melissa :) Thank you. <3 LOVE the signed bookplate :D
Cristin Terrill Bookplates. Thank you so so much Cristin. <3 I adore her book. These plates are perfect.
Origin Swag. Jessica is amazing and her swag is GORGEOUS. Love these. So excited for Vitro. <3


Where The Moon Isn't. Review copy from St. Martin's Press via Angie :D Thank you! Reading soon.
Cinder + Scarlet. GORGEOUS Spanish editions. Finally bought them; I just had to. Love love love.
Champion. Hiih, I need to have ALL the different editions. This paperback is seriously gorgeous.


Signed copies of Asunder and The Dream Thieves. Bought these via Fountain Bookstore :) Very happy. The swag they sent with is gorgeous. <3 Love the Maggie ones. And omg. The signed copy of The Dream Thieves is PERFECT. Signed to me. <3 Love love love. But oh. Signed Asunder is gorgeous, but serious sad face. The book looks 100% read. Which sucks. Sniffs.



Disney Store. My last package from Disney. Sniff sniff. But oh my god, I'm going to die when I get the taxes in the mail. Sad face. But so happy about it all! I CANNOT wait to watch Frozen. Love all the trailers so much and I just know I will adore the movie. So excited for it. <3 Oh, how I adore all my Frozen stuff. It is all so pretty and amazing. Though, the Elsa Singing Doll at the top kept singing all the time, which turned out to be every time I waved my hand. Which sucked, so I had to take out her battery.. but, she is amazing, even so :) As you can see, only one thing that isn't Frozen. And that is Disney Princess figures :) They were new and they are so pretty, I love them all. So adorable.

AND BOOKSHELF! My brand new bookshelf that I got a week ago. Isn't it awesome? <3 It's also a bit taller than my other shelves. But omg, this will also be the very last one I can have. I can fill this with books, and then I can have no more books. Cries already. But still. Excited about this shelf :)


The Taking. I cannot wait to start this book :D Think it sounds amazing and I adore Kimberly Derting.
Love Letters to the Dead. Had to download via Macmillan/Netgalley. <3 It sounds amazing. Excited :)
Prisoner of Night and Fog. Ohh, I HAD to get this via Edelweiss :) It sounds AMAZING. So excited.
The Unbound sneak peek. Downloaded this to peek at it (A) Not reading it all until I have the book. <3
The Luck Uglies. Loved the cover for this one and the sound of it, so I had to download. Excited to read.
The Thickety: A Path Begins. Yeah, another pretty cover, hih. And it sounded pretty awesome as well :)

In My Mailbox is an weekly meme made by The Story Siren.

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Review: Champion by Marie Lu

I feel like I have waited forever for Champion; waiting to find out how it all ends. I'm not sure how to write this review of mine. Have ended up giving it a four stars, but ohh. I have so many conflicted feelings. Will share them all. First it will be a spoiler free review, though, so no need to worry about that :)

I don't know how to start, though. On the one hand, this sequel was pretty amazing. But on the other, it gave me so much heartbreak and I'm not sure I will be able to deal with it. The book is told from the point of view of Day and June; like in the first books. Which is awesome. The writing is perfect.

What bothered me a bit is that the book starts 8 months after the end of Prodigy. With Day and June in different places. That broke my heart. And I don't count that as a spoiler, as it happens in the first page. But oh, it's just.. one of the thing I hate the most is when the couple is separated. I hate it when a lot of time goes by with them apart. Which happened in the beginning. For eight whole months. Broke my heart. Sniffs.

But it's not that bad. Not really. Well, fine, I may not be able to forgive it. But maybe distance was good for Day and June. Day got to spend time with his younger brother, Eden. Which was the best. Because Eden is adorable and we get to see a lot of him in this book. Though he still breaks my heart. I feel so sorry for him. And his eyes. Poor boy. But oh, Day cares so much for him. They are all that's left of their family. Which is even more heartbreaking. But still, I love their bond because it's sweet and honest.

Day is still my favorite character. I love reading his point of view so much. Sigh. He's just adorable. But oh, he is still so broken because of his family. And his illness from book two. That broke my heart. That poor boy. But he is still strong. And kind and loving. Day is an amazing person and I loved reading about him so much. Makes me sad that the books are over, because I really want to read more about Day and his life. And June. Probably. Because I adore her as well; almost as much as Day. She is pretty awesome.

I just, I don't know how to talk about this book. Going to say a few more spoiler free things. Then I need to say some spoilery things. There will be a warning first, though. Anyway. The story in Champion is still amazing. Because this was an amazing book. We learn more about the Republic and the Colonies. We even learn a bit about another country; which I kind of loved though I'm not sure how I felt about that place. It was a bit weird to read about, but I'm sure I could grow to love it. Most likely. Probably not.

Anyway. There are a lot of amazing characters in this book. Most I loved. Loved getting to know new people as well; Lucy was sweet. But oh, I still kind of really hate Anden, the Elector. I don't care for him. And I hate that he care for June. It just isn't fair. Sigh. But there isn't a love triangle. Kind of. There is some really sweet romance between Day and June. They have a few moments. But not enough. Oh, how I wish there had been more. Sobs. But it was so sweet and I adore them both so, so extremely much.

That must be all I have to say that are spoiler free. I think. I just can't really think that much right now because I'm not done feeling all the things. Champion was amazing, though I'm upset about the ending. But either way. I'm glad I read this book. I'm glad I read the whole series and Legend will always have a special part in my heart. This one too. I cannot wait to read more books by Marie Lu, because I adore her as a person and author. She's awesome. And I do love the way she tells a story. Most of the time :D 

Now begins the SPOILERS. Do not read unless you want to know or have finished Champion :)

I'm trying so hard to be strong about this book. But I'm failing. Because my god. I don't think I can forgive that ending. It was so cruel and heartbreaking and for me, personally, is was even worse than Allegiant. And although no one dies in this book, it may have been worse for me. I get what June did at the end, when Day lost his memories of her. I understood her. She wanted him to be able to let go of the pain of knowing that she killed his family. Even though he loves her almost more than anything.

I just. I can't believe she let him walk out of her life without him knowing anything about who she is. It broke my heart. And while I may love her for it, because she did do a good thing, I hate her for not letting Day decide for himself. I hate her for taking that choice away from him. And holy crap. The last chapter. Ten freaking years had passed. Ten! I can't believe it. And that is why I hate June for what she did. How can Day forgive that if he ever remembers her again? :( I wouldn't be able to let it go.

But then, I also may have been okay with those ten years passing with no Day and June together.. if I hadn't gotten to know how June spent those ten years. Who she spent many of them with. I hated that. More than anything. Because she spent more time with him than she spent with Day. And that breaks my heart because it isn't fair. She should have trusted Day to be able to love her even though he knew that she had his family killed. It just.. I'm not getting over it. I'm sorry. But oh, I hate it. Hate it so much.

I don't have the heart to deal with this. I just wish it had been different. But I can't just hate it, because I also thought it was pretty amazing. And the ending is sort of hopeful; with Day and June meeting again. And him almost remembering her. I have hope. But damn it. I need to know. I need to know how long it will take and how he will react to the fact that she let him go. For ten years. Sobs. I'm sorry. It just hurts my heart and it's making me cry because it breaks my heart as well. But still. I loved it.

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Waiting on Wednesday #108

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

LADY THIEF (Scarlet #2) A.C. GAUGHEN

Goodreads Description:

Scarlet’s true identity has been revealed, but her future is uncertain. Her forced marriage to Lord Gisbourne threatens Robin and Scarlet’s love, and as the royal court descends upon Nottingham for the appointment of a new Sheriff, the people of Nottingham hope that Prince John will appoint their beloved Robin Hood. But Prince John has different plans for Nottingham that revolve around a fateful secret from Scarlet’s past even she isn’t yet aware of. Forced to participate at court alongside her ruthless husband, Scarlet must bide her time and act the part of a noblewoman—a worthy sacrifice if it means helping Robin’s cause and a chance at a future with the man she loves. With a fresh line of intrigue and as much passion as ever, the next chapter in Scarlet’s tale will have readers talking once again.
 
 
Hardcover, 304 pages
Expected publication: February 11th 2014 by Walker Childrens
Pre-Order here.

I cannot wait to read Lady Thief. I really enjoyed book one, Scarlet, and I think I will love this one too :) Just, sigh. I'm worried, because I'm pretty sure the book will break my heart. And yet I cannot wait to read it :D Just so sad that Netgalley declined me. Still, hoping February will get here pretty fast :)
What are you waiting for? 

Review: Faking Normal by Courtney C. Stevens

I wanted to read this book from the first time I read the summary. Because it connected with me and it sounded so heartbreaking and perfect. Been meaning to read it for a few months, since I got accepted via Edelweiss, and today I finally did. Started today and I read until I finished. Could not stop.

I don't know how to talk about this book. Will try my best without spoiling it, though some things I will just have to talk about. But anyway. I can tell from the first page of a book if I like the writing or not. And with Faking Normal I loved the writing. Which was very good. The writing was awesome.

The book is told from the point of view of Alexi, which I loved. She was the right person to tell this story. Though, to be honest, I would have been just as happy if the book had been told from Bodee's point of view. <3 Because he would be amazing to read from too. Anyway. Alexi is an amazing girl. But oh, she's very broken. And my heart hurt so much for her. But I also loved how broken she was; as I tend to love these kind of heartbreaks.

Something happened to Alexi a few months back, and she can't get past it. She tries to. She tries to cope by hurting herself; by scratching her neck. I must admit to finding that a bit weird, as I didn't think it would work. But when I think about it, it is a perfectly good way to hurt yourself. But anyway. I felt so sorry for Alexi. Because she has no one to talk to. And we find out what happened and how it happened and how she is and isn't dealing. It's awful and heartbreaking. And I might have loved every second.

Then there is Bodee. Who just had his dad kill his mom. And oh, his story is so heartbreaking as well. Even more so. And I just wish we had gotten to see more about it. But I am happy with what we did get. Bodee is an amazing person and I loved him. We get to see him and Alexi become friends. And it's adorable and sad and I loved it. He's very protective and sweet and loving. I just wish there had been a tiny bit less drama. Sigh. But other than that I loved it. They are both such amazing characters.

The story in this book is beautiful. Yes, it is heartbreaking and all kinds of awful. But it's also very real. It took me a while to figure out who the bad guy was. Thought I had it all figured out, then I got confused. It was awesome. The writing in this book is so good. The characters are all amazing. There are many to read about and I'm not going to mention them. Just know that they are awesome. I loved reading about Alexi's family. They were sweet. Though I'm not sure if I liked her sister. Probably not.

There was this one thing I wasn't sure if I loved or not. See, Alexi have this desk partner at school were they exchange song lyrics. And it's so sweet. But, I also just read about it in Plus One, where they exchanged photos. And I might have loved that a tiny bit more. But oh, the lyrics in this one were so beautiful. Just a bit sad that Alexi didn't know who it was. Took ages for her to find out, and I'm not happy about how she dealt with it at first. Made me a bit sad, which may be the reason for the 4 star.

Anyway. There is some romance in this book. Not too much, but enough. And it's sweet. But here's the thing. This book would have been a five star if not for Alexi going around kissing someone else. I get that she was confused and whatever, but that is not something I ever want to read about. Not ever. Not after the girl has found the boy she likes. It isn't fair and it isn't fun to read about and I did not enjoy that part. But still. Any part with Bodee made me happy because he is an amazing person, just saying.

Okay. I think that is just about everything I have to say about this book. I hope I said enough to get you excited for it :) For while I had a few issues with some things, I still mostly loved it. Thought it was an awesome book. And I would love to read more like it. And more by this author, since I loved her writing. May hope for a sequel, but don't need one. The ending is pretty good, but I may have wanted a little bit more, hih. But overall Faking Normal was a great book that I enjoyed reading a lot. It was amazing.

I'm giving Faking Normal a four star. A few times I wanted to give it a five, but then I remembered the drama that I did not like. And how Alexi was a bit slow at doing something; and that I wished that part had been written a bit better. But other than that I thought Faking Normal was an amazing book. It's heartbreaking but sweet. It tells a beautiful and sad story. I loved reading it. I think you should all read it when it comes out in February because it is a great story. You all need to read it. Just so you know :)
Thank you so much to HarperCollins for the auto-approval on Edelweiss. <3 So happy that I read this.