Review: Death Sworn (Death Sworn #1)

Amazon |  Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

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)

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

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)

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

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)

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

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)

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

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: The Pledge (The Pledge #1)

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

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)

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

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: Troubled Waters (Troubled Waters #1)

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

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: Shadow and Bone (The Grisha Trilogy #1)

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

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: Undone (Outcast Season #1)

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Author: Rachel Caine

Series: Outcast Season, #1

Age Group: Adult

Format: Paperback

Pages: 305

Release Date: February 3, 2009

Publisher: ROC

Original Price: $7.99

ISBN: 978-0-451-46261-9

Source: Local Library

Finished In: 4 Days

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

"I was one of the Old Djinn, the First Djinn, who came before any human walked the earth. I was a spirit of fire and air, and Ashan cast me down to this heavy, crippling flesh..."
Once she was a powerful Djinn. Then Cassiel defied her ruler, Ashan, who tore her very essence away and reshaped her in human flesh as punishment. Forced to live among mortals, Cassile has found refuge among the Weather Wardens--whose power she must tap into regularly, or she will die.
Cassiel earns her keep by assisting the Earth Warden Manny Rocha on his missions--which she finds much easier than coping with the emotions and frailties of her human condition, especially her growing affection for Manny's brother, Luis. But when Cassile encounters a malevolent force that threatens the Rocha family, she discovers that her perceived human weaknesses may be her greatest strengths....

The Cover:
I like the cover, especially the motorcycle. But, Cassile wasn't portrayed quite right. She's supposed to be paler, with pink hair. Well, it was blond, like the girl on the cover, until she dyed it. And, the girl is wearing black, while Cassiel normally wore white leather or pink clothes. She only wore black at the funeral. But, I guess you can't make it perfect. But, overall, I think the cover of Undone portrays Cassile pretty well. A tough woman with a kick-butt attitude.


The Review:
So, if you look on my currently reading, which is on the sidebar, you will notice that I was reading Blue Bloods first. Why did I begin Undone, you ask? Well, it arrived suddenly at the library. You see, I had put a hold for Undone, but there was only one copy, and about 6 people in line. Doesn't seem like much, but when the people hog the book for the full 2 weeks, and then afterwards, don't return it on time, it can be a long time. Anyways, I received it at the library a few days ago, and immediately went to pick it up, which is why I now have the book with me, and dropped Blue Bloods momentarily to begin this book.


Also, I have not read the Weather Warden series yet, but that did not confuse me at all. If you're wondering,  Undone is a continuation of the Weather Warden series, but with new characters. I'm beginning to wonder. I am really liking Cassiel, the main character in this book. I tend to play favorites, so when I read the Weather Warden series, I'm hoping I like Joanne, but I don't think I will. And, I hope Cassiel shows up in those series.


I will say, I love Cassiel(like I said before)! She is my type of character. Cold, stern, unforgiving, powerful, heartless, everything you can think of. After all, she is a Djinn. But, then Ashan casts her down from being a Djinn, in the meantime stripping her powers away. Yet, she still remains kick-but! Over time, though, she softens a little, taking mercy on children(Isabel in particular), and Luis.


Now, Luis, is her love-interest. Yet, I like it that in the book, love isn't the main focus. The focus is more on the war, and the mystery of what happens to Isable. Overall, this is just an action-packed book that you will enjoy. At least, I did. But, I really like Rachel Caine, since she is an amazing author. For example, her Morganville Vampire series are awesome! I'll definitely be picking up the second book, Unknown, at the library, as soon as it arrives(I put it on hold). One last warning for Undone, don't get attached to Manny(or Angela). I won't say why, but I'm warning you.


The Author:

Rachel Caine is the author of more than twenty novels, including the Weather Warden series. She was born at White Sands Missile Range, which people who know her say explains a lot. She has been an accountant, a professional musician, and an insurance investigator, and carries on a full-time secret identity in the corporate world. She and her husband, fantasy artist R. Cat Conrad, live in Texas with their iguanas, Popeye and Darwin; a mali uromastyx named (appropriately) O'Malley; and a leopard tortoise named Shelley (for the poet, of course).

Review: Enna Burning (The Books of Bayern #2)

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Author: Shannon Hale

Series: The Books of Bayern, #2

Age Group: Young Adult

Format: Paperback

Pages: 317

Published: September 15, 2004

Publisher: Bloomsbury

Original Price: $9.99

ISBN: 978-0-7475-9799-5

Source: Local Library

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

When Enna is given a mysterious piece of vellum that teaches her how to create fire--without a spark, without a fling--Enna cannot decide if this is a power she wants, or something that should be extinguished forever. Then war threatens her country and Enna's judgement becomes irrelevant. But she never imagined that control over the life-giving energy of fire could become something so destructive. It is starting to consume her and everything she loves.

The Cover:
Since I think covers should deserve a mention, I have now added this to. I'm thankful I got this version of Enna Burning. The cover is beautiful! Just look at it. If you look more closely, you'll see the flames coming out of the splatter of orange. It's truly beautiful!


The Good:
Just like The Goose Girl, Enna Burning was a lovely written book. The vocabulary was splendid, the details only adding to the beauty of Bayern. Shannon Hale is an amazing author, who I think deserves more credit and should be more popular. Everyone should read her books!


Now, Enna is just my type of heroine. She's strong-willed and stubborn. Plus, she can control fire! How cool is that?! First, we had Princess Isi with wind, and now we have Enna with fire! If you read until the end, you'll find two nice surprises. First, Isi and Enna learn something. And, something exciting happens to Isi!


The Bad:
There was nothing wrong with this book. It was perfect!


The Guys:
There were two main love interests. First, Finn. I will admit something. When I began the first book in the series, The Goose Girl, I though Finn would like Isi. Boy was I wrong! Finn is handsome, strong, and now, he's even a warrior! He's loyal and a really nice guy.


The second love interest is Sileph. He's the captain of the Tirdan army. Did I mention there's a war going on between Bayern and Tiran? So, Enna is semi-crushing on Sileph. How does she meet him if they are on opposite sides? Who does she end up with? Read and find out!


The Judgement:
This book was amazing! I definitely recommend it, and you should go out and buy/borrow it!


The Author:

Shannon Hale is the New York Times best-selling author of six young adult novels, including the Newbery Honor book Princess Academy, two award-winning books for adults, and the upcoming Midnight in Austenland (Jan. 2012). She co-wrote the graphic novel Rapunzel's Revenge and its sequel with husband Dean Hale. They live with their four small children near Salt Lake City, Utah.

Review: The Goose Girl (The Books of Bayern #1)

Book Depository | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Author: Shannon Hale

Series: The Books of Bayern, #1

Age Group: Young Adult

Format: Hardback

Pages: 383

Published: May 13, 2005

Publisher: Bloomsbury

Original Price: $17.95

Source: School Library

My Rating: * * * * *

She was born with her eyes closed and a word on her tongue, a word she could not taste. Her name was Anidori-Kiladra Talianna Isilee, Crown Princess of Kildenree, and she spent the first years of her life listening to her aunt's stories and learning the language of the birds, especially the swans. When she was older, she watched as a colt was born, and she heard the first word on his tongue, his name, Falada.
From the Grimm's fairy tale of the princess who became a goose girl before she could become queen, Shannon Hale has woven an incredible, original and magical tale of a girl who must find her own unusual talents before she can lead the people she has made her own.

The Good:
This is my second time reading The Goose Girl, and I still thinks its amazing! I love it when fairy tales are retold, as long as they're retold well. I don't want an author to only put half her/his heart into it. And trust me, Shannon Hale has not put half a heart into this story, she has given one heart and a half. This tale is amazing! Ani/Isi/Crown Princes/goose girl/yellow lady(girl), whatever you wish to call her, is an amazing character. At sixteen, her determination was wonderful. Like all teenage girls, she wanted to give up at times, but she always ended up pursuing her crown. Plus, the writing is magical and wonderful. Always a bonus when a book has excellent vocabulary and writing style.
The Bad:
I don't have much too complain about for The Goose Girl. If I had to say something bad, it would be that at times the book became bland, and it took me awhile to get back to a good part. Otherwise, there was not anything really bad.
The Guy:
The main guy in this story was Geric, the soldier(or is he?). I liked that The Goose Girl, did not necessarily emphasize the romance. It was more a tale of adventure, which is a good change. These days, books revolve around girl x boy, which I enjoy, but like I said before, a change is always welcome. Well, let's describe Geric. He was tall, had broad shoulder, dark hair and eyes. The book was more descriptive but that's basically it. Geric was humorous, gentle, and loving. I admired him. But, I will say that he does not show up much in the book, so you don't really get to know him that well.
The Judgement:
I really enjoyed this book. And trust me, when I re-read a book, it's because I liked it. The characters are wonderful, and Ani has a superpower. Awesome, right? The writing is beautiful. What more could you wish for?
The Author:

Shannon Hale is the New York Times best-selling author of six young adult novels, including the Newbery Honor book Princess Academy, two award-winning books for adults, and the upcoming Midnight in Austenland (Jan. 2012). She co-wrote the graphic novel Rapunzel's Revenge and its sequel with husband Dean Hale. They live with their four small children near Salt Lake City, Utah.

The Faerie Path (Faerie Path #1)

Author: Frewin Jones
Series: Faerie Path, #1
Age Group: Young Adult
Format: Hardback
Pages: 312
Published: February 1, 2007
Publisher: HarperCollinsPublishers
Source: Local Library
My Rating: * * * * *

ANITA WAS LIVING AN ORDINARY LIFE. UNTIL AN ELEGANT STRANGER PULLED HER INTO ANOTHER WORLD. 

Swept away into a court of magic and beauty, she discovers she is Tania, the lost princess of Faerie: the youngest daughter of Oberon and Titania. Since Tania's mysterious disappearance on the eve of her wedding five hundred years before, Faerie has been sunk in darkness and gloom. The courtly Lord Gabriel Drake, who Tania was once to marry, has found her and brought her back.

With Tania's return, Faerie comes alive again as a lang of winged children, glittering balls, and fantastic delights. But Tania can't forget Anita's world, or the boy she loved there.

Torn between two loves and between two worlds, Tania slowly comes to discover why she disappeared so long ago. She possesses a singular magical ability and she must use it to stop a sinister plan that threatens the entire world of Faerie.

The Good:
Honestly, I think everything about this book is amazing! Frewin Jones is one of my favorite all-time authors, along with Rachel Caine, Shannon Hale, Cassandra Clare, and Cinda Williams Chima. What did I love about this book, you're wondering? I guess it would be the setting, England, which I love. The Arthurian dresses. The sisters were fun and delightful. Hopie, the healer, Sancha the reader, Rathina my least favorite, Eden and the Mystic Arts, Zara the flirter, Cordelia the animal lover, and the main character, Tania, who is in love Edric and wishes to keep her fairy wings forever.


Faerie was a beautiful land, similar to London, England. The palace was beautiful, large and grand. The fairy children could fly. I thought was pretty cool.


The Bad:
I honestly do not think there was anything that I did not like in this book. Everything was amazing!


The Guys:
The guys in The Faerie Path are Gabriel Drake and Edric. Gabriel is a duke, rich, handsome, powerful. And a practicer of the Mystic Arts. Beautiful yet eerie silver eyes. Polite, yet I think he is the "bad boy" in the story. Read the book and you will see what I mean.


Edric is the other love interest. At the beginning of the book, Edric and Tania/Anita are already dating. I liked him, but I thought he was weak. Not as a character, but physically and mentally. He seemed kind of hopeless. But, I did not mind. I liked the change. The Faerie Path made Edric sort-of like the "damsel-in-distress."


Random Quote:
Her face gazed back at her.
Queen Titania's face.
Her face.
They were one and the same. ~pg. 160


The End:
I urge you to read these series. This is my second time reading the series, and I still love them. The Faerie Path series is a fun, light read full of magic and wonder.


The Author:

Frewin Jones has always believed in the exsistence of "other worlds" that we could just step in and out of if only we knew the way. In the Mortal World, Frewin lives in southeast London with two mystical cats, Merle Oberon and Siouxsie Sioux.

Once a Witch (Witch #1)

Author: Carolyn MacCullough
Series: Witch, #1
Age Group: Young Adult
Format: Hardback
Pages: 292
Published: 9/14/2009
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Source: Local Library
My Rating: * * * * *

Tamsin Greene comes from a long line of witches, and she was supposed to be one of the most Talented among them. But Tamsin's magic never showed up. Now seventeen, Tamsin attends boarding school in Manhattan, far from her family. But when a very handsome professor mistakes her for her very Talented sister, Tamsin agrees to find a lost family heirloom for him. The search--and the stranger--will prove to be more sinister than they first appeared, ultimately sending Tamsin on a treasure hunt through time that will unlock the secret of her true identity, unearth the sins of her family, and unleash a power so vengeful that it could destroy them all. This is a spellbinding display of storytelling that will exhilarate, enthrall, and thoroughly enchant.

The Good:
This book was amazing, and not just because I love anything that has to do with the four elements, but because Once a Witch was simply delightful. I loved the whole Talent thing, and it would be awesome if you had a Talent to where you could control one of the elements. At least, me personally, I would really like that. I had actually picked up this book a long time ago, and returned it to the library without reading it. Recently, I picked up the second book, Always a Witch, accidentally at the library, and found out that that was the second book in the series. I went back and picked up Once a Witch at the library hurriedly, read it, and well, here I am, writing a review for this amazing book.
The Bad:
Tamsin was a good, headstrong character, but I did have a problem with her smoking. And not just a little, but I mean packs. But, at least they only showed that in the book when Tamsin was stressed. Otherwise, the author didn't mention the smoking. I just felt that the author was throwing in smoking to appeal to the younger crowd by making it look cool. It just slightly derrated the book for me. Rowen bothered me. The "perfect" sister. Just read the book, and you'll find out what I mean.
The Guy:
In Once a Witch, the main guy was Gabriel, a childhood friend. For a moment, I though that the professor would be a love interest, too, but he wasn't. Gabriel was okay. A muscician who drinks and has a tattoo. Didn't appeal too much to me in that sense, but I liked that he was sweet and caring. Sexy, definitely.
The Quote[a teaser]:
"Okay," I gasp. "I can't really breathe, but other than that, okay."
"Breathing's overrated," Gabriel advises me. "I'm discovering that right about now with this damn tie."
The End:
Go read the book, I recommend it.
The Author:

 Carolyn MacCullough received her MFA in creative writing from New School and lives with her husband in Brooklyn.