Review: Death Sworn (Death Sworn #1)

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Title: Leah Cypess

Author: Death Sworn

Series: Death Sworn, #1

Age Group: young adult

Format: hardback

Pages: 344

Release Date: March 4, 2014

Publisher: Greenwillow Books

Source: public library

ILENI IS LOSING HER MAGIC. And that means she's losing everything: Her status as the renegade sorcerers' most powerful rising star. Her purpose in life. The boy she loves. Her home.
Exiled to teach sorcery to the assassins deep within the mountains, she expected no one will ever hear from her again. The last two tutors died within weeks of each other. As Ileni unravels the mystery surrounding their deaths, she'll uncover secrets that have been kept for decades--and she'll find an unexpected ally and dangerous new love.
But even he may not be able to protect her. Not when she's willing to risk EVERYTHING.

As I was finishing up the last few pages in this book, I kept fervently wishing that the book would never end. This is probably the best book I've read so far this year. That may not be saying much, since I haven't been reading like I normally do, but still. It counts for something.

Ileni was so amazingly awesome. It was just so frustrating that she's losing all her powers. I kept wanting her to do some serious physical damage when she used her snarkiness on people. But that is a major plot point in this book, so I guess she couldn't go all badass sorceress on us, or there would be no story to her discovering herself without her powers. And, she didn't cling so much to her man, Sorin. She was at times weak, but she still held her firm ground and threw him to the side when she needed to assert herself.

The plot itself is really good! There's the whole big bad Empire, which I hope to see a lot more of in the next book. Hopefully, all's not as it seems, as I'm hoping. (Maybe the Empire isn't all bad? Psychological twist, perhaps?) I want to meet Tellis, Ileni's old beau, and Sorin's invisible competition! There should be a love duel. Sorcerer against assassin. I'm down for that. And then, of course, there's the whole magic/sorcerer(ess) and assassin thing going on. I'm all for the magic side of things, but it would be nice being able to kill someone with a spoon or something. Magic's still better, though.

Just go get the book, pretty pretty please. It's really amazing/fantastic/interesting/intriguing/etc...

 My Rating:

Review: The Burning Sky (The Elemental Trilogy #1)

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Title: The Burning Sky

Author: Sherry Thomas

Series: The Elemental Trilogy, #1

Age Group: young adult

Format: paperback

Pages: 449

Release Date: September 17, 2013

Publisher: Balzer + Bray

Source: public library

IT ALL BEGAN WITH A RUINED ELIXIR AND A BOLT OF LIGHTNING.
Iolanthe Seabourne is the greatest elemental mage of her generation--or so she's been told. The one prophesied for years to be the savior of the Realm. It is her duty and destiny to face and defeat the Bane, the most powerful tyrant and mage the world has ever known. This would be a suicide task for anyone, let alone a reluctant sixteen-year-old girl with no training.
Guided by his mother's visions and committed to avenging his family, Prince Titus has sworn to protect Iolanthe even as he prepares her for their battle with the Bane. But he makes the terrifying mistake of falling in love with the girl who should have been only a means to an end. Now, with the servants of the tyrant closing in, Titus must choose between his mission--and her life.
The Burning Sky--the first book in the Elemental Trilogy--is an electrifying and unforgettable novel of intrigue and adventure.

 I have two major obsession when it comes to books: angels, and anything dealing with controlling the elements. The Burning Sky deals with the latter, and I couldn't help but fall in love with this book.

Due to major amounts of school work, I have not been reading. But, it's spring break, I stopped by the library on my way home, and just said what the hell to homework and picked up a stack of books. Thank the heavens I picked up The Burning Sky. The book is not without flaws, but it is enjoyable.

Iolanthe is the "greatest elemental mage of her generation". Even though that is continuously stated throughout the book, I couldn't help but not believe it. Most of the time, Titus was saving her arse. I just wanted her to throw lightning at everyone and be a badass. But no, she kept tripping up. I'm big on strong female main characters, so this was hard to get past. The one consolation was that she's pretty witty and smart, but even that was lost after she fell in love. But oh well, maybe she'll get better in the second book.

Secondly, the male main interest is Titus. I get that he's a prince and gets to be all stuck-up, but I couldn't help but not like him. I get it. But, could you be a bit more humble? Even though Iolanthe is supposed to be the strongest, most of the time it felt like Titus is stronger.

I know it sounds like I'm complaining a lot about the character. Just read the book, please. It is worthwhile and a great read. The magical system was really interesting, and the politics are intriguing, too. You won't be wasting your time.

My Rating:

Review: Airborne (Airborne Saga #1)

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Title: Airborne

Author: Constance Sharper

Series: Airborne Saga

Age Group: young adult

Format: ebook

Pages: 318

Release Date: March 28, 2011

A copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Avery knew she had a knack for attracting trouble, but even she is shocked when a six-foot-something harpie shows up on her doorstep. Coping with the existence of a mythological race? Okay. Unwittingly finding herself in the middle of a vicious harpie conflict? A little less okay. Having to rely on an arrogant harpie boy who gets under her skin? Now that is something Avery isn't sure she can handle. 

The concept of being able to fly has always fascinated me. I used to daydream that I had large white wings, sometimes I would see one black and white wing. Over time, as I began reading more and more, I practically obsessed over angels. Even now, angels are my favorite section of paranormal fiction (that and vampires).

But, today, I discovered a new sort of mythological creature. A harpie. Avery, our main character, describes them as having immense wings, about ten feet wide. Up until now, I'd never really paid attention to this part of Greek mythology. Ms. Sharper did an amazing job of presenting these mysterious creatures.

I could clearly picture the harpies. For example, Mason, Avery's personal self-proclaimed protector. He was described as being six feet seven (about). At first I saw him as this wiry, awkward looking guy. The fact that he wore a trench coat did not help. But later on, Avery describes him as muscular, so I now I have this mental image of this geeky looking guy with abs. It was difficult, to say the least. Aside from his baffling appearance, he was a protective, sweet guy.

Avery tends to follow the cliche of being clumsy. Besides that, I liked her personality. I'd imagine it would be difficult adjusting to this whole new world. Not to mention your new form of transportation switching to being flown like a rag doll. She managed to keep her complaining in check, and for that I respect Avery.

This is definitely a series I while be finishing one day.

My Rating:

Review: The Witches of Santa Anna (The Witches of Santa Anna #1-7)

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Title: The Witches of Santa Anna

Author: Lauren Barnholdt & Aaron Gorvine

Series: The Witches of Santa Anna, #1-7

Age Group: young adult

Format: ebook

Pages: 307

Release Date: March 13, 2011

A copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. 

Natalia Moore is the new girl at Santa Anna Prep, and all she wants to do is fly under the radar -- get to her classes, meet a few friends, and try not to make a total fool of herself in the meantime. But when handsome and popular Campbell Elliot goes out of his way to be nice to the new girl, Natalia's plan to go unnoticed flies out the window. 
Cam's hot, but he's completely off-limits. Raine Marsden, the most popular and meanest girl in school, has had her eye on him ever since the summer. And Raine doesn't like competition.
When Cam goes as far as inviting Natalia to the exclusive weekend party at Raine's house, Raine sets her sights on a new victim. But what Natalia doesn't know is that Raine and her friends are no ordinary mean girls. They have powers most people can only dream of, and nobody will stand in the way of what they want. And what Raine wants is Campbell.
The Witches of Santa Anna series of novellas, proves just how far true love will go and that nothing--not even pure evil--can change your destiny. 

At first, I was going to review these books separately, but since I was given books one through seven in this set, and I was so hooked, I'm just going to review all of these books. Each book is actually really short, and it was a very quick read.

I'm surprised. Normally, I'm not someone who tends to pick up many books about witches. Now, don't misunderstand; I have nothing against witches. I guess I just tend to lean more towards vampires and other paranormal creatures. Anyways, my last witch book, Earth, had elemental witches. These are totally different, for the most part. Now we have mind-controlling witches, and I just happen to love it!

Raine is one bitch you do not want to mess with...unless you're Natalia. In fact, according to one of the characters, Raine is the most beautiful girl...in the world. But not even this girl's looks make up for her personality. Raine is controlling, cruel, and practically everything you can imagine in a villain. Add to that, she wants Cam to be her property.

Of course, in comes our heroine, Natalia (who just so happens to have a slight, yet awesome, British accent!). And guess who Cam starts to fall for? Bingo! Well, add in another hot (did I mention they're both football players?) guy, and we have our love triangle! Brody x Natalia x Cam  In the end, I could not really decide who I like more. Brody's a douche at the beginning, but goes through a complete metamorphsis. Cam's just...Cam. They're both the American boys. Not really my type of guys (I tend to stick towards dark and mysterious). But, the love interests were definitely cute, and the love games between the three were hilarious.

Like I wrote above, the witch's most useful power as far as I can tell is mind control....that and flinging people against trees. I did have a lot of questions running through my head by the end of the book. A few included: What is the big deal with Cam and Natalia dating? What war? There were so many more, and that did leave me frustrated.

I guess I'll just have to go buy the next set of books! That is about it. My only regret is that I did not read these books before. The Witches of Santa Anna is definitely an entertaining read. I loved every minute of it! If you are short on time, it's also a quick read.

My Rating:

Review: Earth (Elemental #1)

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Title: Earth

Author: Shauna Granger

Series: Elemental, #1

Age Group: young adult

Format: ebook

Pages: 233

Release Date: May 1, 2011

A copy was provided by Shauna Granger for review.

Shayna and her two best friends have the abilities to manipulate and control the four elements, earth, air, water and fire. While learning to hone their growing powers, they discover a new and malicious presence in their sleepy beach town. Someone is performing blood magic and threatens to expose their small magical community. So far only small animals have been slaughtered, but then the nightmares start. 
Shayna suffers nightmares of being chased and sacrificed only to wake up bloodied and bruised. She thinks her magical blood is the ultimate target for the final blood rite. When an innocent girl, Tracy, is kidnapped Shayna knows it's only a ploy to draw her out; she can't let someone die because of her. 

I'm so sorry everyone about my extremely long leave of absence. But, it is summer now, and I'm back, hopefully for the long run this time. As is to be expected, I have not been reading in quite a while. But the first book that I picked up is Earth.  I definitely do not regret it!

I've always been a fan of mostly any book having to do with the dealing of elements. There are many people that say that it is overused. But, I keep reading these types of books, to find the diamonds among rocks. And Earth is a diamond.

Earth follows the story of Shayna, or Tess (her element name), Steven (Drake), and Jodi (Fae). I loved all of these characters, especially Steven. He reminds me of one of my friends. He's quirky, funny, and fun, and was probably my favorite character in the book.

On the other hand, Shayna, the main character, I had a few problems with. She was a bit too bossy, although considering she is the strongest out of all three of them, it's reasonable, she could treat Steven and Jodi more equally. Hopefully, as the series progresses, she won't let her powers go to her head.

You're probably what their powers are. Well, as I stated before, there powers have to do with the elements. Steven is fire, Jodi air, and as you can probably guess from the title of the book, Shayna is earth. But, there is something more to Shayna, so just your eyes on her while reading. In a way, they are witches, except for Steven, who I guess you could a warlock, but's he pretty much counts as a girl. ;)

I think I have said enough about Earth. I just think you guys should go read it. It's definitely a memorable book, and I can guarantee you will enjoy it.

My Rating:

Review: Darkness Before Dawn (Darkness Before Dawn Trilogy #1)

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Title: Darkness Before Dawn

Author: J.A. London

Series: Darkness Before Dawn Trilogy, #1

Age Group: young adult

Format: paperback

Pages: 342

Release Date: May 29, 2012

Publisher: HarperTeen

Source: library

ONLY SUNLIGHT CAN SAVE US.
We built the wall to keep them out, to keep us safe. But it also makes us prisoners, trapped in what's left of our ravaged city, fearing nightfall.
After the death of my parents, it's up to me--as the newest delegate for humanity--to bargain with our vampire overlord. I thought I was ready. I thought I knew everything there was to know about the monsters. Then again, nothing could have prepared me for Lord Valentine...or his son. Maybe not all vampires are killers. Maybe it's safe to let one in.
Only one thing is certain: Even the wall is not enough. A war is coming and we cannot hide forever.

I remember reading some time ago that Darkness Before Dawn received criticisms for the cover being similar to Fallen by Lauren Kate. That is true, but I still love the whole gothic theme going on, so in the end, I love it!

I can't help but admit that this was a bland read. There wasn't anything new to read in Darkness Before Dawn. I found it very cliche, and boring, to be honest.

Through the story, I kept reading that Dawn was special, but yet I never found out why. Major disappointment. There was the classic love triangle. Michael, Dawn, and Victor. But if you keep reading, you'll immediately find out who the obvious choice is going to be.

I ended up struggling to finish this book. I would read a few chapters each day, and then put it down for a few more days, and then pick it up again.

In the end, there's not much to say. I just could not enjoy Darkness Before Dawn. If I had to say, Rachel would be my favorite character out of all. She was just a sweet young woman who took on the responsibility of taking care of Dawn. Rachel represented a great mixture of being a friend, and a motherly figure for Dawn.

That's about. I still have not decided if I want to start the sequel, but don't let this convince you to not read the book. Maybe it just was not for me. I hope you all have better luck. Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

My Rating:

Darkness Before Dawn is part of the Catch Up Reading Challenge!

Review: Soulbound (Legacy of Tril #1)

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Title: Soulbound

Author: Heather Brewer

Series: Legacy of Tril, #1

Age Group: young adult

Format: hardback

Pages: 394

Release Date: June 19, 2012

Publisher: DIAL

Source: school library

SOMETIMES YOU NEED TO BREAK ALL THE RULES TO FOLLOW YOUR HEART...
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 Graplar King. Sixteen-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 to fight, but only one will, and the consequences will change their lives forever.

I've always been a fan of swords, so it's no marvel that this cover captured my attention. How could it not? Besides, I'm always on the lookout for books with strong female characters, and well, it doesn't get much better than a girl with a sword on the cover. So, hip hip horay for the cover of Soulbound!

I've been fortunate to be finding amazing books. May the winning streak continue! First The Pledge, and now Soulbound. Let me just warn you, this is a pretty freaking amazing book!

There are books where girls are continually wishing they were stronger, or whatever, but they never actually do anything about it, and just wait for the guys to rescue them. Now, Kaya, isn't quite like that. She takes the initiative. And I couldn't help but love her. Any girl who is willing to stand up to a stuck up, close-minded teacher is A okay for me. Oh, and throw in Maddox too. She was pretty kick-butt, considering she didn't know how to fight or anything.

As for the plotline, it was pretty good. I will brag about this. The author was trying to add a twist to the story, but I had her figured out. At first it was just an assumption, but turns out I was right! I won't tell you what it is, for risk or ruining everything. But just watch out for Darius's relationship with Kaya, and why he's so secretive and all that.

Now, my favorite part, the lovers. Well, there was amazing, gorgeous, mysterious, stunningly hot, Darius. Did I mention he's hot?! His silver hair just added to the mystery! Then there's boring, rule-following, mediocre Trytan. Hello, is there much of a choice? Examine Kaya. I just said that she's rebellious, and totally wants to learn how to kick someone's butt, which is against the rules. Then there's Darius who is a rebel of his own accord....and rule-following Trytan. Screw opposites attract. Darius and Kaya are made for each other! I just hope the author agrees with me. Sorry about my mini rant.

Just take my word for it. This is a pretty awesome book! If you're into strong heroines, then you won't be disappointed. Kaya may not be the strongest, but she certainly has gumption.

My Rating:

Soulbound is part of the Catch Up Reading Challenge!

Review: The Pledge (The Pledge #1)

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Title: The Pledge

Author: Kimberly Derting

Series: The Pledge, #1

Age Group: young adult

Format: hardback

Pages: 323

Release Date: November 15, 2011

Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry

Source: school library

In the violent country of Ludania, the classes are strictly divided by the language they speak. The smallest transgression, like looking a member of a higher class in the eye while they are speaking in their native tongue, results in immediate execution. Seventeen-year-old Charlaina has always been able to understand the languages of all classes, and she's spent her life trying to hide her secret. The only place she can really be free is the drug-fueled underground clubs, where people go to shake off the oppressive rules of the world they live in. It's there that she meets a beautiful and mysterious boy named Max, who speaks a language she's never heard before...and her secret is almost exposed.
Charlie is intensely attracted to Max, even though she can't be sure where his real loyalties lie. As the emergency drills become real emergencies and the violence escalates, it becomes clear that Charlie is the key to something much bigger: her country's only chance for freedom from the terrible power of a deadly regime.

 I've always been a big fan of dark, gothic looking covers, and well, this is no exception. The book cover drew my interest with the gloominess, and although the book isn't that dark, it's certainly a beautiful cover.

We all know that I have not posted a review in ages, and well, I have nothing to say, except apologize. But, it's a new year, and hopefully things will be different, and I won't be such a slacker. Anyways, on to The Pledge. One of the reasons I haven't been reading as much is because I have not had any particular book grab my interest. The Pledge changed it all!

For starters, I loved how its a queendom, and that royal men do not have that much value, only female royalty. It's definitely a change from the stereotypical kingdom, and I can honestly say that I loved it. The class system was pretty unique to, or at least, I have not seen anything like it. Each class system has their own language, along with the national language. You cannot learn any other language, except for the one in your class. Guess who's the exception to the rule? Our main character Charlie! It was just a great spin to the Ludania society.

Next, we can't skip the love interest. At first, I thought that there would be a best friend who love Charlie, but no, it didn't quite take that spin with Aron. It seemed like the author was headed there, so I'll watch out for that in the sequel. But no, Charlie was interested in Max since she met him at the club. Another cliche love at first sight story. Although, right now, I pretty welcomed that kind of story. Afterwards, Max and Charlie did make a pretty cute couple. Max is sweet and cares a lot about Charlie, and that makes a great guy in my book.

A character who I think deserves an honorable mention is Angelina. She was the cutest, most adorable little sister ever. While reading, I was jealous of Charlie. It made me wish that I had a little sister like Angelina, and I'm an only child. 

I think that about covers the greatest points of The Pledge. Considering you didn't hear me say anything bad about it, I think you can tell that I'm in love with the book. I can't wait to get started on the sequel, The Essence. 

My Rating:

The Pledge was part of the Catch Up Reading Challenge.

Review: Katana (Katana #1)

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Title: Katana

Author: Cole Gibsen

Series: Katana, #1

Age Group: young adult

Format: paperback

Pages: 375

Release Date: March 8, 2012

Publisher: Flux

Source: library

Teenage skater girl or supernatural samurai?Rileigh Martin wants to believe that adrenaline gave her the strength to fend of three muggers in the mall parking lot. But adrenaline doesn't explain the voice in her head giving her battle tips and warnings.
While worrying that she's going crazy (always a reputation ruiner), Rileigh gets a visit from Kim, a handsome martial arts instructor, who tells Rileigh she's harboring the spirit of a five-hundred-year-old samurai warrior.
Relentlessly attacked by ninjas, Rileigh has no choice but to master the katana--a deadly Japanese sword that's also the key to her past. As the spirit grows stronger and her feelings for Kim intensify, Rileigh is torn between continuing as the girl she's always been and embracing the warrior inside her.

Well, after having a terrible few weeks filled with loads of homework, I finally had a reprieve! Today, I was able to finish Katana, a book that I had been reading for a few days. Before this book, I was actually reading Eyes Like Stars, but I couldn't get into it, so I quit and picked up this book. And guess what?! I so do not regret it!

I had high expectations for Katana, mostly because I wanted a break from the "real world". Katana was a silly story, but it did have its serious moments. It makes sense, though. Samurais are, of course, warriors, so it's not going to be all good.

Besides saying that this was an amazing book, there isn't much more. The plot was engaging. When I had to stop reading because of interfering work, I became grumpy, and wanted to keep reading. There aren't many books that make me feel this way.

There was one issue though. I felt that the author, Cole, couldn't make up her mind. At moments, Rileigh seemed almost like the cheerleader, ditzy kind of girl. At other times, she was the skater chick (rough and tough). I couldn't really grasp a solid picture of who Rileigh (according to Quentin, Ri-Ri) was.

The love interest was Kim, or Yoshido, depending which life you're looking at (did I mention this book deals with reincarnation?). Kim really wasn't my kind of guy. He was, dull, to say the least, and way too overprotective and smug for my liking. But, out of the guys, Quentin was my favorite. He was Rileigh's best friend, and I couldn't get enough of him. He was the humor and comedic relief.

Overall, this book was pretty good. It was definitely a quick and engaging read. In my opinion, you should definitely not pass Katana up. Especially if you're a fan of anything Japanese!

My Rating:

Review: Moongazer

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Title: Moongazer

Author: Marianne Mancusi

Series: none

Age Group: adult

Format: paperback

Pages: 355

Release Date: July 31, 2007

Publisher: Shomi

Source: library

Imagine every night entering a nightmare world you can't escape and being told real life is a dream. Skye Brown has it all: the cool job, the hot boyfriend, the apartment on New York's Upper West Side. But lately she can't enjoy any of it. She's having dreams of a post-apocalyptic world. Of a bleak futuristic wasteland of a struggle against oppression. And she's been told she's a MOONGAZER.
But what is that? And what is reality? In her dreams, she's not Skye Brown at all, but Mariah Quinn. In her dreams there's Dawn, the beautiful yet haunted soldier, and Skye is but the empty shell of a girl he once loved. And there was a betrayal, a great betrayal. Ripped between Dark Sides and club kids, the mundane and the mystic, Skye must discover who she is, what she wants and who wants her. And why. But in the glow of the moon, it's not always easy to recognize the face in the mirror.

I actually don't have much to say about this book. It was definitely not what I expected. And there is definitely a lot of explicit sexual scenes, so if you're considering reading this book, be aware. It was not a bad book...per say. I did finish it in one reading, so you can say it's a quick read.

The characters were bland. That's simply how I would describe them. I could not warm up to the main character, Mariah. Like I said, she was too bland and wishy-washy for me. The other main character, and the love interest, Dawn was too vulnerable. I like that he wasn't the conventional overprotective lover. I mean, he was still overprotective, but I would say that Mariah/Skye was the "dominant one" in the relationship.

Like I said, I don't have much to say about Moongazer. I picked this book up for two reasons. Number one would be the moon. I don't know why, but I usually pick up a book if it has something magical to do with the moon. I'm crazy like that. Lastly, my second reason would be the guy's hair on the cover. Of course, the guy on the cover is Dawn. If you look, his hair is kinda whitish, and I thought that was pretty cool.

So, in the end, I would recommend this book as a quick read. It's not boring, it's simply average.

My Rating:

Review: Troubled Waters (Troubled Waters #1)

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Title: Troubled Waters

Author: Sharon Shinn

Series: Troubled Waters, #1

Age Group: adult

Format: hardback

Pages: 391

Release Date: October 5, 2010

Publisher: Ace Books

Source: library

After the death of her father--a former royal advisor who'd fallen out of favor--Zoe Ardelay has little time to grieve before she receives astonishing news: She has been chosen to become the king's fifth wife!
Unable to resist the ambassador sent to fetch her, Zoe accompanies him to the royal city. Once there, she slips away and hides among those who live along the shores of the mighty river. For Zoe is coru: ruled by the elemental sign of water.
Gradually she discovers that she is, in fact, the coru prime. Which means she must return to the palace, not as unwilling bride for the king but as a woman with power in her own right.
But the palace abounds with intrigue and deception as Zoe unlocks more of the mysteries of her blood--and the secrets of the royal family--she must make a decision: How best to use her great power?

This was the perfect book! Lately, most of the books I've been reading have a bad case of insta-love. Basically where it's love at first sight. So, awhile ago I went book hunting through the web, and found Troubled Waters, a book that claimed to be not insta-love. But, it was so much more than that.

I've always loved books where the heroines are able to control a certain element. I don't know why. Maybe it's because when I was little, I was obsessed with Sailor Moon. That obsession probably unconsciously carried on into my love of literature. So, you can imagine my joy when I found out about this book. I mean, Zoe, the main character, is coru, and controls water. How cool is that?!

In kingdom of Troubled Waters, you element is basically like your race/ethnicity. You're usually asked what you are. If I lived here, I would definitely be coru(water & blood).

I just simply loved this book! I could go on and on, but then it would be a 2 page review. So, I'm just going to say a little about my favorite characters. First, definitely Zoe! She was a kick-butt heroine. She didn't care what people thought of here, she was who she was(this was partly due to her being exiled most of her life). I couldn't help but admire her. Plus, she's not just a kick-butt heroine, but she has powers! Now, my other favorite character was Darien. He was so cute! I couldn't help but like him. And Zoe and him made the perfect couple. I'm even going to share my favorite quote by him(it gave me goosebumps).
"If you did leave," he said. If you simply walk out the doors and stroll down the mountain, leaving behind no word of where you were going or why, I would come looking for you. I would never stop looking for you. I would find you, too."
Isn't that just the best? I found him a definite reprieve from the YA boys of late. Sure, he was overprotective, but he was also kind and caring. And trust me, Zoe could hold her own against Darien. She was not weak. And best of all, there was a build up before they actually got together.

You should just go and get your hands on a copy of Troubled Waters! I assure you, you won't regret reading this book.

My Rating:

Review: Promises (The Syrenka Series #1)

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My Promises review is part of The Syrenka Series tour.

Title: Promises

Author: Amber Garr

Series: The Syrenka Series, #1

Age Group: young adult

Format: paperback

Pages: 263

Release Date: December 7, 2011

Sometimes following your heart can end up destroying the ones you love.
She knew this day was coming.
When seventeen-year-old Eviana Dumahl is faced with the responsibility of an arranged marriage and clan leadership, she is forced to choose between the life required of a mermaid and one of a teenage girl simply infatuated with the wrong guy. Kain, her devoted fiance, would make a wonderful husband except that she's been in love with Brendan, a shape-shifting selkie, ever since they were kids. Choosing to abandon her family, her clan, and her life with Kain will have dire consequences far beyond anything she could have imagined.
A war is brewing amongst the clans and Eviana unwittingly becomes a pawn in the intricate schemes of a twisted mastermind. With Brendan's life on the line, she has no choice but to involve those she once considered friends. Amist encountering senseless tragedies and immense loss, Eviana discovers that she is more valuable as a clan leader than anyone ever suspected. Her survival is not only dependent upon the loyalty of her friends, but also on her acceptance of a life she had so adamantly tried to escape.

A copy was provided by Amber Garr for review. Thank you! 

Wow! Promises simply left me open-mouthed! This book is seriously one of the best I've ever read. Since I was little, I was always of fan of mermaids. The ocean fascinates me, with all its mysteries and wonders, so much so that I always spent my time watching The Little Mermaid. I thought it was the best movie ever. But, don't get me wrong. I never once imagined that fish and lobsters and seagulls were singing while in the water. I wasn't that gullible.

So, it's no surprise for me that Promises was such a good book! I haven't read a mermaid book in awhile, but I liked Mrs. Garr's version of mermaids. Mermaids who can control humans? That sounds pretty cool! When I imagined mermaids, I thought of girls who longed to be human. But these merfolk were quite different. They had wealth, influence, and control over humans! Frankly, I loved these merfolk(although since I'm a human, I shouldn't be too happy).

The main character was Eviana. Let me just mention something quickly. I love the name Eviana! It's not one I've ever heard, but the name certainly befits a mermaid. It's very unique. Now, let's move onto the character herself. I thought Eviana acted a tad childish for her age(17-18). But then again, she does live the life of a spoiled heiress. But, boy is she in for a surprise when her world comes crumbling down. I won't say anymore, lest I ruin the book.

Speaking of boys, there were two very yummy guys in this book. Kain and Brendan. Apparently, most of the mermen are hotties, and I'm completely alright with it. Although my heart strayed sometimes towards Kain, the sexy heir, I just couldn't get enough of Brendan, the selkie. Sort of a forbidden love. He was just too cute and mature. I thought he was good for Eviana. Plus, I always think an older guy is hotter, and he was already 21(Kain was around 18/19)!

All I can say about Promises is that you need to get your hands on it! It was an amazing book with a beautiful cover(for all of you out there who judge a book by its cover). And who doesn't love mermaids?

My Rating: