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: 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: 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:

Review: Evernight (Evernight #1)

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Title: Evernight

Author: Claudia Gray

Series: Evernight, #1

Age Group: young adult

Format: hardback

Pages: 327

Release Date: May 1, 2008

Publisher: HarperTeen

Source: library

Bianca wants to escape.
She's been uprooted from her small hometown and enrolled at Evernight Academy, an eerie Gothic boarding school where the students are somehow too perfect: smart, sleek, and almost predatory. Bianca knows she doesn't fit in.
Then she meets Lucas. He's not the "Evernight type" either, and he likes it that way. Lucas ignores the rules, stands up to the snobs, and warns Bianca to be careful--even when it comes to caring about him.
"I couldn't stand if they took it out on you," he tells Bianca, "and eventually they would."But the connection between Bianca and Lucas can't be denied. Bianca will risk anything to be with Lucas, but dark secrets are fated to tear them apart...and to make Bianca question everything she's ever believed.

I wanted to like this book! Trust me, I really did. Almost always, I will pick up a book where the plot is set in a boarding school, especially if the school is dark and creepy and not quite right. Evernight was okay, to say the most. It's not a book that is going to stay with me. It's just average. This is the equivalent to a one-night stand, but with a book, of course.

Bianca, the main character, actually had some sense. She was smart and cared for her parents. Mostly, you don't see that in Young Adult novels, because the teen is mostly hating on his/her parents. Since I am really close to my parents, I found I could relate to Bianca. Plus, she actually cared about her studies and wasn't completely lost in her own world with Lucas, like most typical heroines tend to be nowadays.

Lucas was the tough, bad boy type, but you could tell there was something else. In face, Bianca herself described Lucas as being vulnerable at types. But don't be confused. Lucas could definitely keep up a fight...and win. As for handsome-wise, Lucas was tall, broad-shouldered with brown/bronze hair and green eyes.

The other characters that made an appearance were Balthazar, the other love interest who never had a chance, Patrice, who I thought was one of the nicer snobby people at Evernight, and Racquel(Bianca's friend) and Vic(Lucas's roomate). Of course, there were others, but those were the most memorable ones. That, and Bianca's parents, who were pretty awesome as far as parents go.


As for the two of them as a couple, I don't know. It was too fast for me. But isn't that how most YA novels tend to be? I was also somewhat annoyed at the fact that Bianca did not reveal important facts about herelf and her parents until the middle of the book. Anyways, like I said, Evernight wasn't bad, but it wasn't good either. It was just in-between.

My Rating:

About the Author:

Claudia Gray is the pseudonym of New York-based writer Amy Vincent. She has worked as a lawyer, a journalist, a disc jokey, and an extremely poor waitress. Her lifelong interests in old houses, classic movies, vintage style, and history all play  a part in creating the world of Evernight.

Review: Shadow and Bone (The Grisha Trilogy #1)

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Title: Shadow and Bone

Author: Leigh Bardugo

Series: The Grisha Trilogy, #1

Age Group: Young Adult

Format: Paperback

Pages: 368

Release Date: June 5, 2012

Publisher: Henry Holt and Company

Surrounded by her enemies, the once-great nation of Ravka has been torn in two by the Shadow Fold, a swath of near-impenetrable darkness crawling with monsters who feast on human flesh. Now its fate may rest on the shoulders of one unlikely refugee.
Alina Starkov has never been good at anything. But when her regiment is attacked on the Fold and her best friend is brutally injured, Alina reveals a dormant power that saves his life--a power that could be the key to setting her war-ravaged country free. Wrenched from everything she knows, Alina is whisked away to the royal court to be trained as a member of the Grisha, the magical elite led by the mysterious Darkling.
Yet nothing in this lavish world is what it seems. With darkness looming and an entire kingdom depending on her untamed power, Alina will have to confront the secrets of the Grisha...and he secrets of her heart.

An ARC was provided by Henry Holt and Company for review. Thank you!

I have a feeling that tonight I'm not going to be getting much sleep. Why, you ask? The reason is most likely because I'll be tossing and turning in bed all night while I think about how the sequel to Shadow and Bone isn't coming out until 2013! In my mind, this is an awful way to torture readers!

I fell for this book hard. Head over heels hard. Ever since I read the description, I knew this was going to be my kind of book. I had high expectation(sky high), and they were met! Simple as that. The heroine, Alina, was a kind orphan girl who knew who to be the exact dose of fun and realistic. Well, as realistic as you can be in a fantasy world.

Personally, I loved the kingdom of Ravka. I wish I could live there! Also, if I could be any type of Grish, I'd probably be a Heartrender. Something about having control over people seems pretty amazing! For second place, I would be a Healer. 

Now, the last thing I have to say about Shadow and Bone, is predictably about the lover interested. Sweet, best friend Mal. Alina's heart belongs to him since the beginning. But then she gets taken away, and she has her doubts. Then, there is mysterious Darkling, whom Alina can't help but feel drawn to. All that power just draws her in. Personally, I think Alina's relationship with the Darkling was more lustful than anything. With Mal, it was sweet and you could definitely tell there was something more.

Anyways, I'll leave you all to figure out what goes on in the kingdom of Ravka. Pick up a copy of Shadow and Bone. You won't regret it!

My Rating:

Review: Fantasy Lover (Dark-Hunter Prequel)

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Title: Fantasy Lover

Author: Sherrilyn Kenyon

Series: Dark-Hunter, Prequel

Age Group: Adult

Format: Paperback

Pages: 337

Release Date: February 2, 2002

Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks

Source: Borrowed

Dear Reader,
Being trapped in a bedroom with a woman is a grand thing. Being trapped in hundreds of bedrooms over two thousand years isn't. And being cursed into a book as a love-slave for eternity can ruin even a Spartan warrior's day.
As a love-slave, I knew everything about women. How to touch them, how to savor them, and most of all, how to pleasure them. But when I was summoned to fulfill Grace Alexander's sexual fantasies, I found the first woman in history who saw me as a man with a tormented past. She alone bothered to take me out of the bedroom and into the world. She taught me to love again.
But I was not born to know love. I was cursed to walk eternity alone. As a general, I had long ago accepted my sentence. Yet now I have found Grace--the one thing my wounded heart cannot survive without. Sure, love can heal all wounds, but can it break a two-thousand-year-old curse?
--Julian of Macedon

There isn't much I can say about Fantasy Lover. A friend of mine told me about it, saying that it was a good book. Personally, I'm indifferent to this book. Sure, there were a few ups that had me intrigued, but most of the books went by in slow chunks. See my conundrum? I didn't hate Fantasy Lover, but I also didn't feel that pull that tells me it's a good book. Well, enough of that.

Let's see, Julian of Macedon is the hot guy here. He's blonde and blue-eyed. Tall(6'2" tall) and muscular(perks of being an ancient warrior). Oh, and he's like a magnet for females, seriously. Every woman that sees him wants to throw herself at him. Young and old alike.

And here comes Grace. The one who summons him from the book that he's been trapped in for a looong time. She changes everything, of course. 

Grace was a mediocre heroine. It was claimed that she was "different" from the other women crawling at Julian's feet, but the only difference I could see was that she hid it better. But, her thoughts were all about Julian and how she wanted to take off his pants, lick him, bite him, and do who knows what. That made Grace a hypocrite in my eyes, so I couldn't really warm up to her.

Julian was okay. But, he was also a ball of hormones, considering his curse made him want to strip Grace's clothes at any given moment. I did love Julian's humor.

This was a less than average read. I didn't warm up to any of the characters, so the twists and turns did not affect me. Most likely I will read the next book in the Dark-Hunter series, considering Fantasy Lover, was a sort-of-ish prequel.

Rating:

Review: For the Love of a Vampire (Blood Like Poison #1)

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Title: For the Love of a Vampire

Author: M. Leighton

Series: Blood Like Poison, #1

Age Group: Young Adult

Format: Ebook

Pages: 268

Release Date: April 20, 2011

Publisher: Indie

Source: author for review(thank you!)

My Rating: * * * * (4 stars)

Ridley Heller thought that all her problems would be over if she could have Bo back;back from the dead. But what Ridley didn't know was that her wish would come at a price. Bo survived a condition that would have killed a lesser vampire, or any vampire for that matter. The only reason he didn't die is because of who he is, someone Ridley doesn't know at all. Someone Bo himself doesn't know at all. As Ridley gets closer to finding out Bo's true identity, she discovers that loving him could also come at a price, a price much higher than she ever could have imagined. The question is: is there any such thing as a price too high to pay for Bo? For his love, for his safety, for eternity in his arms?

The Cover:
Honestly, the cover does not particularly appeal to me. I don't hate it, but I don't love it. In a way, I guess I'm indifferent towards it. Cover Rating 3/5


Review:
Now, For the Love of a Vampire was an entirely different matter. At first, when I began, I couldn't help but compare it to Twilight. This made me put the books down and step away from it. But then I convinced myself to keep reading, and I am glad I did. After a few pages, everything changed. For the better.


Bo's name didn't appeal to me. When I think of the name Bo, I think of a country boy, honestly. But, I got used to his name and his sweet personality towards Ridley. In the end, they made a cute couple!


Ridley was a humdrum character for me. But, then she got better. I will admit though, I kind of liked her better when she was the one of the "mean girls". The only thing that bothered me about her was how quickly she left her normal life just to be with Bo. She abandoned her whole life for him.


The cliffhanger! Once I got to the last page, I was craving for more, and I got cut off. I going to have to get the second book soon.


What's my verdict, you're asking? Well, I definitely recommend this book. Just remember this warning. Don't stop after the first few chapters. Persevere and you'll like this book. The beginning can be a little monotonous, but afterwards, I promise it gets better.


The Author:

I was born and raised in the United States, and I’ve lived in several of the fabulous fifty. Though I currently live in the deep South, I spent much of my childhood up North and hope to return there one day. A few other things about me: I believe that sometimes you have to look really, REALLY hard to find the good in people, but it's there. I believe that I'm shrinking (I swear five years ago I was two inches taller). I believe my husband is quite possibly one of the most amazing men in the entire world (I can't be sure because I haven't met all of them). I believe coffee and chocolate, when combined, could be the basis for world peace. I believe that Jesus rocks and communism doesn’t. I believe that white makes me look fat and black collects lint. I believe summer's too hot, winter's too cold and fall was made for football. I like dogs better than cats and the first movie in a trilogy is invariably the best. But most of all, I believe that love conquers all.

Review: The Van Alen Legacy (Blue Bloods #4)

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Title: The Van Alen Legacy

Author: Melissa de la Cruz

Series: Blue Bloods, #4

Age Group: Young Adult

Format: Hardback

Pages: 384

Release Date: October 5, 2009

Publisher: Hyperion

ISBN: 978-142310226-7

Source: Local Library

My Rating: * * * * * (5 stars)

With the stunning revelation surrounding Bliss's true identity comes the growing threat of the sinister Silver Bloods. Once left to live the glamarous life in New York City, the Blue Bloods now find themselves in an epic battle for survival. Not to worry, love is still in the air for the young vampires of the Upper East Side. Or is it? Jack and Schuyler are over. Oliver's brokenhearted. And only fabulous Mimi seems to be happily engaged. Young, fanged, and fabulous, Melissa de la Cruz's vampires unite in this highly anticipated fourth installment of the Blue Bloods series.

The Cover:
If I'm correct, I think the girl on the cover of The Van Alen Legacy is Mim. The veil signifies her bonding dress. I like the cover, it looks beautiful, especially with the Eiffel Tower in the black part, signifying Schuyler's adventure(you'll see). Cover Rating 5/5


Review:
There is absolutely nothing wrong with The Van Alen Legacy! I was hooked from beginning to end! Although, part of my addition to this series is because Melisssa de la Cruz ends each chapter with a cliffhanger. 


I did get a little frustrated because it was told from three different points of view. At times I wanted to rip my hair out, because I almost only wanted to hear Schuyler's point of view. It almost came to the point where I threatened to skip Mimi's and Bliss's parts. But, those parts got really good, and I simply couldn't bring myself to skip around.


It's strange to see Lucifer in this book. I mean, he's THE Lucifer, like Lucifer-vs.-God Luficer. It felt...awkward to say the least. But, I admire Cruz for deciding to takes on this challenge to portray the most notorious villian ever from her point of view.


Oh, and we finally get some depth from Mimi. I was beginning to think she was just a rich, spoiled airhead. But, her and Kingsley were oddly sweet together. By the end, I actually felt pity for Mimi.


I already have my hands on the next book in the series, Misguided Angel. I can't wait to begin reading!


The Author:

Melissa de la Cruz is the author of many best-selling books for teens, including Blue Bloods, Masquerade, the Au Pairs series, the Ashleys series, and Angels on Sunset Boulevard. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and daughter and is hard at work on the next book in the Blue Bloods saga. While Melissa is not a Blue Blood, she knows people who are.

Review: Juliet Immortal (Juliet Immortal #1)

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Title: Juliet Immortal

Author: Stacey Jay

Series: Juliet Immortal, #1

Age Group: Young Adult

Format: Hardback

Pages: 306

Release Date: August 9, 2011

Publisher: Delacorte Press

ISBN: 978-0-385-90826-9

Source: Local Library

My Rating: * * (2 stars)

I'm not Ariel Dragland. My name is Juliet, and I've spent centuries jumping in and out of people's bodies, fighting for true love, trying to save soul mates from Romeo, the man who killed me. Yes, that Juliet. That Romeo. He's in Dylan's body. And I'm only borrowing Ariel's body for a short time.
Then I'll be gone, and the soul who really lives here will come take my place, and no matter what she remembers, she'll never love you the way I do. Never.

The Cover:
No matter what they say about "Don't judge a book by it's cover", I don't listen. Most of us do it. The more beautiful the cover, the more likely we are to pick up the book. This doesn't mean that I only pick up books with pretty covers, but they do catch my interest more. And...the cover for Juliet Immortal is just that. It's alluring, and that is what made me pick it up at the library. Cover Rating 4/5


Review:
Honestly, I have mixed feeling about this book. It's a good book, but maybe just not my type of book.


To say the least, Juliet Immortal was disturbing. I most definitely did not imagine Romeo the way Stacey Jay portrayed him. He was twisted and to me, completely evil. I couldn't stand him. Dylan's corpse(whom I also disliked) fit him perfectly. Two who occupied the same corpse. I would also group Gemma in this category. She was crazy at the best, and a maniac/psycho at the worst.


Out of all of them, I guess Juliet would be my favorite character. In the end I did not like any of them, but Juliet was the best. She was, troubled, because of Romeo's betrayal(who wouldn't be). But she seemed the most sane. I guess Ben would fit in with her.


I wasn't particularly interested about Juliet and Ben's love interest. It didn't appeal to me. Oh, but there is one surprise about Ben. I did figure it out since the beginning. If you want a clue, just think f the characters in Shakespeare's play and Ben's name.


Overall, the book was not that appealing to me, but I did receive a copy from Netgalley of Romeo Redeemed, which I will be reading. I want to see what happens with Romeo. Hopefully I'll like it better than Juliet Immortal. Stacey Jay also has the You Are So Undead to Me series. I may read these, but I'm also not a big zombie fan. We'll see. Based on my review, it's up to you if you want to read this book. I won't tell you not to, but I also won't encourage you.


The Author:

Stacey Jay is the author of the You Are So Undead to Me series and several other books for young adults. She lives in California with her husband, two sons, and a few friendly ghosts who say they don't care for pets.

Review: Revelations (Blue Bloods #3)

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Author: Melissa de la Cruz

Series: Blue Bloods, #3

Age Group: Young Adult

Format: Hardback

Pages: 264

Release Date: October 28, 2008

Publisher: Hyperion

Original Price(U.S.): $15.99

ISBN: 978-142310228-1

Source: Local Library

My Rating: * * * * * (5 stars)

SCHUYLER VAN ALEN'S blood legacy has just been called into question: is the young vampire in fact a Blue Blood, or is it the sinister Silver Blood that runs through her veins? As controversy swirls, Schuyler is left stranded in the Force household, trapped under the same roof as her cunning nemesis, Mimi Force, and her forbidden crush, Jack Force.
When an ancient place of power is threatened in Rio de Janeiro, however, the Blue Bloods need Schuyler on their side. The stakes are high, the battle is bloody; and through it all Schuyler is torn between duty and passion, love and freedom.
Romance, glamour, and vampire lore collide in the highly anticipated third book in best-selling author Melissa de la Cruz's Blue Blood series.

The Cover:

This time I am really satisfied with the cover. It portrays the exact theme that runs through the book. Maybe you're wondering who the girl on the cover is, but you'll have to wonder until the end, when it is finally revealed(hence the title Revelations). But, I'm not giving the cover five stars because I like exotic and unique covers, and this one lacked a little. Cover rating 4/5

Review:

One word to describe this book. Bittersweet. Another way would be to call it a love-hate book, at least for me. There wasn't one moment when I did not hate every single character. Then I loved theme. And the cycle continued, it was a complete roller coaster. And I loved it!

Schuyler and Jack's affair made me think of Schuyler as weak. If you know you can't have the guy, why keep trying in vain? Jack frustrated me so much. Pick a girl! Don't just play with Schuyler! First Jack is completely romantic and sweet with Schuyler(which I love), and then he's the same with Mimi(which I hate). And the end!

The weak point for Schuyler was definitely her affair. But at the end, I admired her strength and quick decisions. She did not show weakness at the end, which is the kind of heroine I like.

Overall, this was an amazing ride that I would recommend to all vampire fans. And watch Bliss, because you will find she is not what is expected(hint).

The Author:

Melissa de la Cruz is the author of many best-selling books for teens, including Blue Bloods, Masquerade, the Au Pairs series, the Ashleys series, and Angels on Sunset Boulevard. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and daughter and is hard at work on the next book in the Blue Bloods saga. While Melissa is not a Blue Blood, she knows people who are.