Review: "H2O" (The Rain #1) by Virgina Bergin

Synopsis:

It's in the rain...and just one drop will kill you.

They don't believe it at first. Crowded in Zach's kitchen, Ruby and the rest of the partygoers laugh at Zach's parents' frenzied push to get them all inside as it starts to drizzle. But then the radio comes on with the warning, "It's in the rain! It's fatal, it's contagious, and there's no cure."

Two weeks later, Ruby is alone. Anyone who's been touched by rain or washed their hands with tap water is dead. The only drinkable water is quickly running out. Ruby's only chance for survival is a treacherous hike across the country to find her father-if he's even still alive.

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:

I feel like I was bamboozled! Led astray! Hoodwinked! This book was supposed to be spectacular! It's an apocalyptic world with killer rain! How could you go wrong with that! Obviously a lot because I seriously had to force myself to finish the book, and even then I was really only skimming the last half. What a waste of a perfectly good book cover...

The plot and ending isn't difficult to guess; I mean, you already know everyone is going to die, so there's no real mystery to it. Which kind of sucks about the premise because there isn't much to write about.

 

 

The main character, Ruby, made me want to give her some serious side eye action-- she was just too superficial. I'm still trying to figure out why she is worried about her hair and makeup? Or why she is concerned about cute guys or her female competition? Honey, you have much bigger problems to worry about like, oh I don't know, the people rapidly dying around you! I would be more worried about the safety of my loved ones and how I'm going to survive without water, but hey, that's just me.

 

 

Speaking of which, how would one prepare for an apocalypse involving killer rain? I haven't a clue,

but I do have an awesome, kick** survival plan for a zombie apocalypse!

 

 

While reading this book, I was insanely thirsty: I downed a whole bottle of Arizona Green Tea in two minutes! Anyways, This book is nothing to write home about, unless you see killer rain happening anytime soon-- which in that case, let me know. Otherwise, this book is a massive snoozefest.

336 pages

Expected publication: October 7th 2014 by Sourcebooks Fire

Rating:  🔔 🔔

Recommend?  Nope. Nada.

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Review: "The Whispering Skull" (Lockwood & Co. #2) by Jonathan Stroud

Synopsis:

 

In the six months since Anthony, Lucy, and George survived a night in the most haunted house in England, Lockwood & Co. hasn't made much progress. Quill Kipps and his team of Fittes agents keep swooping in on Lockwood's investigations. Finally, in a fit of anger, Anthony challenges his rival to a contest: the next time the two agencies compete on a job, the losing side will have to admit defeat in the Times newspaper.

Things look up when a new client, Mr. Saunders, hires Lockwood & Co. to be present at the excavation of Edmund Bickerstaff, a Victorian doctor who reportedly tried to communicate with the dead. Saunders needs the coffin sealed with silver to prevent any supernatural trouble. All goes well-until George's curiosity attracts a horrible phantom.

Back home at Portland Row, Lockwood accuses George of making too many careless mistakes. Lucy is distracted by urgent whispers coming from the skull in the ghost jar. Then the team is summoned to DEPRAC headquarters. Kipps is there too, much to Lockwood's annoyance. Bickerstaff's coffin was raided and a strange glass object buried with the corpse has vanished. Inspector Barnes believes the relic to be highly dangerous, and he wants it found.

The author of the blockbuster Bartimaeus series delivers another amusing, chilling, and ingeniously plotted entry in the critically acclaimed Lockwood & Co. series.

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:

Very rarely is a sequel better than the first. In this case, I would have to say parts of it were better and some parts were not. Now before you all jump down my throat or look at the screen crazy saying, "what?", let me explain. The story was even better than the last. The humor was even  better and everything is progressing nicely and setting up for the next book. However a select few of the characters were just not on their game. I'll get to that later.

This sequel was even more chilling than the previous book.  I'm not going to spoil it, but the plot was dreadfully good! (See what I did there?). Once again, it is in first person POV with the reader seeing through Lucy's eyes. I'm not sure if I like reading from Lucy's point of view, to be honest. Despite this, I deeply enjoyed then book. I am absolutely in love with the premise. It's like Ghostbusters meets the Three Musketeers.

 

And now for the nitty gritty. As stated previously (up above), I said stated that certain characters were not on their A-game, which was kind of a drag while reading (a big enough drag that deserves a place in RuPaul's Drag Race! LOL I'm so hilarious...). Lucy seemed to be a real wimp in this book. I just don't understand it since she didn't really act like this in the first book. She was acting way too much like a "scared-y" cat (yeah, I said it!). I kept wanting to say that this is the Lockwood & Co. series, and not Diary of a Wimpy Kid! Get it together, girl; you're an agent that fights ghosts.

The wisecrack of the group, George, was his ever so charming self and continued to make me laugh with his sarcasm and dry humor. However, in every group there is one token damsel in distress; i.e. Daphne in Scooby Doo, Amy in Doctor Who etc. And who was it in this group? Hint: starts with a "G" and ends with an "E". That's right folks, you guessed it: George. I totally face palmed when it happened, it was so ridiculous. Besides George, the skull was funny too. I liked the introduction of this new character...err...ghost?

Anyways, I loved the mystery and suspense factor within the plot as well as the team work between the protagonists. The suspense really kept me on edge. I said it before and I'll say it again...I love this series! You already know Stroud is setting us up for something quite spectacular in this book as well as the future books.

Favorite Quotes:

 

     "Where was that recent strangling case?" George said. "Where the ghost knocked on the window and killed the old lady?"

     "George, that was a window! This is a door!"

     "So what? They're both rectangular apertures! I can be strangled too!"

 

     "I'm fine," I said briskly. "So who's opening it?"

     "Not me," Lockwood tapped the sewn-up clawmarks on his coat front. "I did Mrs Barrett."

     "Well, I did that trapdoor in Melmoth House. George?"

     "I  did that secret room at the Savoy Hotel," George said. "You remember-- the one with the ancient plague mark on the door. Ooh, that was eerie."

     "No, it wasn't. It wasn't haunted or secret. It was a laundry room filled with pants."

     "I didn't know that when I went in, did I?" George protested. "Tell you what, we'll toss for it." He rummaged deep in his trousers, produced a dirty-looking coin. "What do you think, Luce? Heads or tails?"

     "I think---"

     "Heads? Interesting choice. Let's see." There was a blur of movement, too fast for the eye to follow. "Ah, it's tails. Unlucky, Luce. Here's the crowbar."

     Lockwood grinned. "Nice try, George, but you're doing it. Let's fetch the tools and seals"

 

400 pages

Expected publication: September 16th 2014 by Random House UK

Rating: 🔔🔔🔔🔔🔔

 

Recommend?   Yes. I demand that you read it! Just kidding (kind of)


(ARC courtesy of Net Galley and Doubleday Children's)

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Review: "The Screaming Staircase" (Lockwood & Co. #1) by Jonathan Stroud

 Synopsis:

When the dead come back to haunt the living, Lockwood & Co. step in . . .

For more than fifty years, the country has been affected by a horrifying epidemic of ghosts. A number of Psychic Investigations Agencies have sprung up to destroy the dangerous apparitions.

Lucy Carlyle, a talented young agent, arrives in London hoping for a notable career. Instead she finds herself joining the smallest, most ramshackle agency in the city, run by the charismatic Anthony Lockwood. When one of their cases goes horribly wrong, Lockwood & Co. have one last chance of redemption. Unfortunately this involves spending the night in one of the most haunted houses in England, and trying to escape alive.

Set in a city stalked by spectres, The Screaming Staircase is the first in a chilling new series full of suspense, humour and truly terrifying ghosts. Your nights will never be the same again . . .

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:
 

Okay so...this book was released last year, but in one of my rare moods I just had to read it before reading the sequel. I am pleased to announce that I am a new fan of Jonathan Stroud and the Lockwood & Co. series! It has officially filled the Percy Jackson and the Olympians withdrawal I have been experiencing lately.

 

Man, oh man, I adored the story! The idea of ghosts becoming what goes bump in the night was chilling. I liked the part that mainly children were able to fight ghosts, as they are more psychically open; especially since that has been a common belief in the real world. The only sucky part of this fictional universe is having to worry about being ghost touched (read the book and find out what that is. No spoilers here people!).
 

It is in first person POV and you're seeing (or reading, if you want to get technical) everything through Lucy's, our protagonist, eyes. This is a adventure/ mystery kind of book, which is sort of neat. There were multiple plots going on, so I wasn't exactly sure how they were going to be resolved or tie in, but alas, Stroud surprised me by tying every loose end into a cute little red bow. Also, I'm mostly sure that tis book is geared more towards preteens or even YA, but I believe even adults would heavily enjoy this book.
 

The characters were young, of course. I say that because: 1. they were immature at times;  2. naive every once in a while; and 3. could grate on your nerves. As I said, they are young so what do you expect? Although on a personal note, I don't think I eve acted like that, but who knows? Maybe I did and that's why my mom was always shaking her head at the things I said or did.  

 

Lucy, Anthony and George are like the Three Musketeers meets the Ghostbusters. They each bring something different to the table, which may be why they are as cohesive as a well oiled machine. George, by far, is my favorite with his dry humor and sarcasm. Anthony's quick wit and leadership is appreciated as well as  Lucy's...uh...being a girl? LOL just kidding everyone.

This is a great read and easily one of my new favorites! I recommend a read. And believe me, you will love it! (Or else....) just kidding again haha.

440 pages

Published August 29th 2013 by Doubleday Children’s Books

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔🔔🔔  

Recommend?   Yeah Yeah Yeah!

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Review: "The Merciless" by Danielle Vega

Synopsis:

 

Forgive us, Father, for we have sinned

Brooklyn Stevens sits in a pool of her own blood, tied up and gagged. No one outside of these dank basement walls knows she’s here. No one can hear her scream.

Sofia Flores knows she shouldn’t have gotten involved. When she befriended Riley, Grace, and Alexis on her first day at school, she admired them, with their perfect hair and their good-girl ways. They said they wanted to save Brooklyn. They wanted to help her. Sofia didn’t realize they believed Brooklyn was possessed.

Now, Riley and the girls are performing an exorcism on Brooklyn—but their idea of an exorcism is closer to torture than salvation. All Sofia wants is to get out of this house. But there is no way out. Sofia can’t go against the other girls . . . unless she wants to be next. . . .

In this chilling debut, Danielle Vega delivers blood-curdling suspense and terror on every page. By the shockingly twisted end, readers will be faced with the most haunting question of all: Is there evil in all of us?

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:

 

If I were to summarize this book in one word, I would say...disturbing. Yeah that's then word alright: DISTURBING! I only discovered this book through a friend of mine, and I'm not sure whether I am glad or not that I have read this. This is surely one of those books that you probably won't guess the ending, as you won't know what the hell is going on. Trust me, I had some good guesses myself, and even I only was sort of right. I'm still not sure what I just read. All I do know is, the entire time I was saying "sweet buttery Jesus"!
 

As I was saying, I saw this book at Barnes & Noble and I thought the book, not just the cover, were creative. It's made to resemble an actual bible. Eerie, right?
 

The story was okay: it was basically Mean Girls meets Saved (for those of you that have seen those movies). Everything gets real interesting towards the middle of the book. (Spoiler Alert: If you have a weak stomach, Do Not read this book). I was seriously scared and had to pray to God after finishing this book. There are some serious revelations at the end of the book (pun intended), and you will not see them coming.

 

The characters were okay as well, or at least some of them. I didn't like Sofia at all. I'm just not a fan of weak-willed people in books. I feel like, if you know its wrong, speak up. She was annoying because while she's laying the victim card, she was also subconsciously instigating some of the conflict. Brooklyn  was like a mixture of Miley Cyrus and Janis Ian (Mean Girls) so basically picture that. Riley on the other hand, was like Pennsatucky (Orange is the New Black). Riley is a few tacos short of a combination: she is a straight up psychopath.

 

It's not the most original premise, but it does deliver good thrills and terror to all you adrenaline junkies and thrill seekers. Just beware...it's not for the faint hearted. Also, there better be a sequel especially with that ending; but alas, I am sure this is a stand alone novel.

 

279 pages

Published June 12th 2014 by Razorbill

 

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔

 

Recommend?   Worth a read...if you dare (muah ha ha)

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Review: "Trial by Fire" (The Worldwalker Trilogy #1) by Josephine Angelini

Synopsis:

This world is trying to kill Lily Proctor. Her life-threatening allergies keep her from enjoying experiences that others in her hometown of Salem take for granted, which is why she is determined to enjoy her first high school party with her best friend and longtime crush, Tristan. But after a humiliating incident in front of half her graduating class, Lily wishes she could just disappear.

Suddenly, Lily is in a different Salem—one overrun with horrifying creatures and ruled by powerful women called Crucibles. Strongest and cruelest of them all is Lillian . . . Lily's other self in this alternate universe.

What makes Lily weak at home is what makes her extraordinary in New Salem. In this confusing world, Lily is torn between responsibilities she can't hope to shoulder alone and a love she never expected.

                                                                                               *(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:

I love the idea of multiple dimensions/worlds and versions of yourself. So, naturally, it should come as no shock why I was drawn to this book. Besides, it has witches and not your grand papi's witches. SALEM witches--the original O.G witches. On a side note, I love the cover...so wicked cool!

I wasn't sure if I was going to love these characters--I'm a reader who likes to see some depth and character development. I don't like to take them at face value...there needs to be substance, as characters can make or break a book for me. I'm not saying that these ones are deeper than  the deep, blue sea, but they each have a little backstory that is revealed as the story unfolds and progresses the overall plot. These characters were very real and relatable--with flaws; yet they were trying to b e better than their past mistakes. I understood Rowan; his anger and unwillingness to forgive and forget. Lillian was also a trip to read. I am very curious as to why she's doing what she is, and just what did she see in another dimensional world. Tristan and Caleb were some pretty funny friends and character foils. Lily is pretty amazing as well. She's like a breath of fresh air with her easygoing but fierce attitude. Every once in a while I will root for the bad guys, i.e Carrick and Gideon. This is not one of those times. But I would like to understand what Carrick's motivation for his deeds are...I already know Gideon's.

Back to the story, it's pretty engaging and doesn't stray too far into fantasy: it has a decent fusion between fantasy and reality. I definitely got lost into the world that Josephine Angelini has created, and I want to go back (I'm impatiently awaiting the second book in the series)! Admittedly, I'm really liking where this story is heading and the message it's sending about nuclear weapons: they're catastrophic. Anyways,  I enjoyed the sexual tension between Lily and Rowan, and the gradual relationship from enemies to friends to lovers. Ahh! Young love...

This book will make you ponder on the likeliness of alternate worlds, and just who you may or not be if you were to travel to a different one. Would I be smarter or dumber? Less athletic? More sickly? Who knows! What I do know is this book is good.

384 pages

Expected publication: September 2nd 2014 by Feiwel & Friends

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔🔔

Recommend?   Yes, I do. I do. I do.

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Review: "The Frozen Dead" (Commandant Martin Servaz #1) by Bernard Minier

Synopsis:

The first victim is a horse: its headless body hangs suspended from the edge of a frozen cliff.
On the same day as the gruesome discovery, a young psychiatrist starts her first job at a secure asylum for the criminally insane, just a few miles away.
Commandant Servaz, a Toulouse city cop, can't believe he has been called out over the death of an animal. But there is something disturbing about this crime that he cannot ignore.
Then DNA from one of the most notorious inmates of the asylum is found on the corpse... and a few days later the first murder takes place.
In this snowbound valley, deep in the Pyrenees, a dark story of madness and revenge is unfolding. It will take all of Servaz's
skill to solve it.
*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:

I am pleased to say that this was a great psychological, mystery thriller! It's not everyday that you come across a book that keeps you guessing until the end. With its twists and turns, this novel gave me heart palpitations and left me unable to guess the final outcome of the plot.

The POV shifts between two characters: Commandant Servaz and Dr. Diane Berg. It's kind of funny because I kept wondering when the two would finally cross paths; it seemed to take forever. Anyways, I suppose one character was supposed to give the reader eyes into the Institute, and the other into the investigation. Later on the book, it almost felt like Diane was kind of an irrelevant character, by the way. All the characters seemed to be raw and uncut-- it was very refreshing to read characters without the pretenses.

Please note that this story is not for the fainthearted. It will not only "touch" on psychology and touchy subjects such as rape and abuse, it will reach the depths of your mind and (pardon my French, lol) mind-fuck you. Having to read the perverted ways of people, especially the criminally insane, made me want to scrub myself clean and click my heels three times to go home. If you want to stay away from this book, I don't blame you...ignorance is bliss after all.

Favorite Quotes:

"If there's one thing we do learn in this job," he said, "it is that people are rarely what they seem. And that everyone has something to hide." - Servaz

"What if, for example, you have the choice at an election between three candidates: the first one is half paralyzed by polio, suffers from high blood pressure and anemia and numerous other serious illnesses, has been known to lie, consults an astrologist, cheats on his wife, is a chain-smoker and drinks too many martinis; the second one is obese, has already lost three elections, is going through a depression and has had two heart attacks, smokes cigars and in the evening glugs champagne, port, brandy and whiskey before taking two sleeping tablets; and the third one is a decorated war hero who respects women, loves  animals, might drink a beer from time to time and doesn't 't smoke. Which one would you choose?"

Servaz grinned.

"I suppose you expect me to say the third on?"

"Well done, you've just rejected Roosevelt and Churchill and elected Adolf Hitler. You see, things are never what they seem."

496 pages

Published August 12th 2014 by Minotaur Books

Rating:  🔔 🔔 🔔 🔔

Recommend?  I highly recommend!

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Review: "Alias Hook" by Lisa Jensen

Synopsis:

"Every child knows how the story ends. The wicked pirate captain is flung overboard, caught in the jaws of the monster crocodile who drags him down to a watery grave. But it was not yet my time to die. It's my fate to be trapped here forever, in a nightmare of childhood fancy, with that infernal, eternal boy."

Meet Captain James Benjamin Hook, a witty, educated Restoration-era privateer cursed to play villain to a pack of malicious little boys in a pointless war that never ends. But everything changes when Stella Parrish, a forbidden grown woman, dreams her way to the Neverland in defiance of Pan’s rules. From the glamour of the Fairy Revels, to the secret ceremonies of the First Tribes, to the mysterious underwater temple beneath the Mermaid Lagoon, the magical forces of the Neverland open up for Stella as they never have for Hook. And in the pirate captain himself, she begins to see someone far more complex than the storybook villain.

With Stella’s knowledge of folk and fairy tales, she might be Hook’s last chance for redemption and release if they can break his curse before Pan and his warrior boys hunt her down and drag Hook back to their neverending game. Alias Hook by Lisa Jensen is a beautifully and romantically written adult fairy tale.

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:

As a Wicked fan, I'm all for learning the backstory of the supposed "antagonist"; things are never what they seem once you learn the truth. Honestly, this book bored me to tears at first, but I think the story was still trying to find its groove. By the end, I was surely engrossed in this not-so-classic tale.

For starters, let me tell you all that I have never seen Peter Pan nor have I read the tale. Granted, I sort of know the story due to a children's play of Peter Pan; so this might be why I was a bit disinterested when I started reading Alias Hook. By the middle of the story, however, things started to get very interesting. The reader discovers what Captain Hook's life was like from adolescence til his eventual imprisonment in Neverland. I have to say that I really felt bad for the guy; Hook was betrayed in a Count of Monte Cristo kind of way (for those of you who know that story-from the book and/or the movie).

In this reimagining, Peter Pan is the actual antagonist! Truthfully, I always though that little kid was devious and heartless- definitely not someone to admire or befriend. Pan and his Lost Boys are just a bunch of rascals who have nothing better to do then torment others without thought. Even though that is how children behave, I sure as sugar never acted that way. Yet I am a girl and men are boys, and boys are...boys LOL. Speaking of which, I loved the little comparisons between a man and a boy because they aren't much different.

Back to the story, the reader will see Hook get his own love interest and redeem himself. I'm not going to spoil it as to who it was, but I will say that I was heavily rooting for Hook to get his happily-ever-after; they do say that the third time is the charm (wink wink). Be fore warned that this isn't a child's tale, as it is a wee bit steamy for the young whippersnappers.

368 pages

Published July 8th 2014 by Thomas Dunne Books

Rating: 🔔 🔔 🔔       

Recommend?   Yep, but it will get you Hooked! (pun intended)

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Review: "Fool's Assassin" (The Fitz and the Fool Trilogy #1) by Robin Hobb

Synopsis:

'Fantasy as it ought to be written' GEORGE R.R. MARTIN
Tom Badgerlock has been living peaceably in the manor house at Withywoods with his beloved wife Molly these many years, the estate a reward to his family for loyal service to the crown.

But behind the facade of respectable middle-age lies a turbulent and violent past. For Tom Badgerlock is actually FitzChivalry Farseer, bastard scion of the Farseer line, convicted user of Beast-magic, and assassin. A man who has risked much for his king and lost more…

On a shelf in his den sits a triptych carved in memory stone of a man, a wolf and a fool. Once, these three were inseparable friends: Fitz, Nighteyes and the Fool. But one is long dead, and one long-missing.

Then one Winterfest night a messenger arrives to seek out Fitz, but mysteriously disappears, leaving nothing but a blood-trail. What was the message? Who was the sender? And what has happened to the messenger?

Suddenly Fitz's violent old life erupts into the peace of his new world, and nothing and no one is safe.

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:

Admittedly, I have not read nor heard of the Farseer books until coming across this one. It does leave something to be desired when you haven't read the previous books. Although this is a new trilogy, the main character, Fitz, has been a long standing protagonist throughout the Farseer books. Therefore, I didn't have a clue as to what the characters' backstory was; especially with a character oriented book such as this. Despite my initial confusion, I found this novel to be marvelous.

The biggest draw for me was the characters. I admire Robin Hobb's ability to write her characters with such brutal honesty and depth. It's been a while since I've read a story that actually made me feel for those characters. There is so much emotion conveyed in each chapter, it sort of devastates you; these characters aren't just killed off- for death would be too easy- they suffer through their trials and tribulations.

The is more of an adult perspective rather than young adult, so expect too see read some adult situation if you catch my drift. It isn't a action packed story, but more of a slow paced one; perhaps its more of a lead in book to something much m,ore grand in the future two novels. I  like where this book is heading, and just might read the previous books to get the whole feel of this fantastical world the author has created.

667 pages

Published August 12th 2014 by Harper Voyager

Rating:🔔🔔🔔🔔

Recommend?  If you read the previous Farseer novels, then you will like

                              this one

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Review: "The Secrets of Life and Death" by Rebecca Alexander

Synopsis:

 

In modern day England, Professor Felix Guichard is called in to identify occult symbols found on the corpse of a young girl. His investigation brings him in contact with a mysterious woman, Jackdaw Hammond, who guards a monumental secret--She's Dead. Or she would be, were it not for magic which has artificially extended her life. But someone else knows her secret. Someone very old and very powerful, who won't rest until they've taken the magic that keeps her alive....
In Krakow in 1585, Dr John Dee, the Elizabethan Alchemist and Occultist, and his assistant Edward Kelley have been summoned by the King of Poland to save the life of his niece, the infamous Countess Elisabeth Bathory. But they soon realize that the only thing worse than the Countess' malady, is the magic that might be able to save her...
As Jackdaw and Felix race to uncover the truth about the person hunting her, it becomes clear that the answers they seek can only be found in the ancient diary of John Dee's assistant, Edward Kelley. Together they must solve a mystery centuries in the making, or die trying.

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

 

My Review:

This book started off with a bang! I'm starting to notice a pattern, though: lately, books have been based on some historical event. This one is based on the murderess Countess Elizabeth Bathory. I've been secretly stalking this book for months now, as it wasn't available in the U.S until recently. Every thing about this book was amazing: the characters, the setting, the premise, the dog (I'm just kidding about that last one...kind of).

I loved that one of the primary settings was in Transylvania-I've always wanted to go there! Transylvania doesn't disappoint, with it's gypsies, bloodsuckers and witches; it's uber spooky! The story jumps back and forth between the past and present-which I liked because the author chooses to lead the reader to all the magnificent discoveries and unveilings by writing this way. In the beginning of each "past" chapter, is a journal entry by Edward Kelley.

The characters were relatable for the most part, and I really got to know them by the end of the book. Sadie was annoying with her incessant whining and schemes. I kept thinking "you must want to die". Felix was pretty cool and thank God, not a total douche (you never know with characters these days!). I felt bad for Felix, though; he's a victim to a cheater of an ex-wife who's also an opportunist, in my opinion. Jack was also super cool. My favorite character is Ches, "man's best friend". Who can resist an adorable doggy? Doctor Dee and Edward Kelley were just foolish- they should have known the ritual they performed was demonic when Edward started spouting demon names! All I know is, Edward should have been exorcised stat!

The ending was bittersweet and realistic. I'm not sure how there could have been a happily-ever-after anyways. I was pleased to see the parents of Sadie and Jack get closure for the pain they have endured. I'm still scratching my head over the countess' death- how was she not able to handle the fire elemental if she's possessed  by an evil entity? I have no idea, but the book was good.

Favorite Quotes:

"He may try to wrap himself in the blessings of Rome," he whispered, "but the Bathorys are cursed. Why else would he need a sorcerer's spells and talismans? You know the Devil's own magical letters, that is why you were invited here."

I stepped back from the reach of the man's stink. "We have been blessed by angels who have spoken wisdoms to us," I said, with some anger, "Those angels affirmed that Jesus was the son of God."

"And demons cannot lie?" he chuckled.

"Witchcraft?" I was appalled of the idea. While as a man, I might dabble in powerful natural forces such as alchemy, everyone knows witches attract the devil himself with the sinfulness of the female nature.

He smiled without mirth, "God may direct me there, and I pray that he does. But you, sir, are guided by Satan himself, if you create an undead queen for these lands."

384 pages

Expected publication: October 7th 2014 by Broadway Books

 

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔🔔

 

Recommend?   If you don't mind the presence of the supernatural, then

                            yes.

 

(ARC courtesy of Broadway Books and Net Galley)

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Review: "Mortal Danger" (Immortal Game #1) by Ann Aguirre

 

Synopsis:

 

Revenge is a dish best served cold.

Edie Kramer has a score to settle with the beautiful people at Blackbriar Academy. Their cruelty drove her to the brink of despair, and four months ago, she couldn't imagine being strong enough to face her senior year. But thanks to a Faustian compact with the enigmatic Kian, she has the power to make the bullies pay. She's not supposed to think about Kian once the deal is done, but devastating pain burns behind his unearthly beauty, and he's impossible to forget.

In one short summer, her entire life changes, and she sweeps through Blackbriar, prepped to take the beautiful people down from the inside. A whisper here, a look there, and suddenly... bad things are happening. It's a heady rush, seeing her tormentors get what they deserve, but things that seem too good to be true usually are, and soon, the pranks and payback turns from delicious to deadly. Edie is alone in a world teeming with secrets and fiends lurking in the shadows. In this murky morass of devil's bargains, she isn't sure who—or what--she can trust. Not even her own mind...

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

 

My Review:

When I initially read the synopsis, I was stoked for what had to be greatness. I am and always have been for an good, old testament revenge story. Despite my heady fascination with the premise, the book was just "okay". Don't get me wrong, the first half was really addicting; the second half not so much.

 

I have to say that the cover for this book was just delicious and edgy. I almost want it as a tattoo. Anyways, can I just say how lucky Edie, the protagonist, is to be getting a second chance at life pending her three wishes? Add to that, her "genie in a bottle" is the sexy Kian. Where was my fairy Godmother when I was that depressed? Okay maybe "lucky" isn't the right word, as nothing in life is without a price. I know that from experience, and Edie really should have known better.

Her wishes were just ridiculous, with maybe the exception of her first wish...maybe. For someone so smart, you would think she would consider every aspect of a decision before making it, or be logical when it came to who to trust and how people were getting murdered. Oh no...that is just too like right. If she's so smart, she should have wished for more wishes; Kian never said that was forbidden LOL. At the very least she should have wished for superpowers to combat the bad guys!

Edie was an alright character, but her wishy-washy tendencies were aggravating to read. Especially her saying she hopes so-and-so dies, and then she's shocked that their dead. Really now? Did you not think your words have power now? I don't know why she didn't figure it out after the first murder. I more or less favored Kian. He seemed to be the most interesting character in the entire book because of his past.

The best part was the suspense. Every time a character was murdered though, I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop to reveal who was next. There was a lot of death in this book and not everyone who died deserved it. On another note, I always thought that the infinity sign was good luck in Asian culture? I guess not. The big reveal of who was controlling this "wish" game was not what I was expecting. I can't say for sure if that's a good or bad thing, yet. I'll just have to wait and see until the next book.

Favorite Quote:

"You know it's true. People who just got their money always act the worst about it. They wants so badly to be accepted by the blue bloods, to hang out with the right crowd-" -Davina

384 pages

Published August 5th 2014 by Feiwel & Friends

 

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔

Recommend?         It's okay. Maybe worth a read

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Review: "Snow Like Ashes" (Snow Like Ashes #1) by Sara Raasch

Synopsis:

A heartbroken girl. A fierce warrior. A hero in the making.

Sixteen years ago the Kingdom of Winter was conquered and its citizens enslaved, leaving them without magic or a monarch. Now, the Winterians’ only hope for freedom is the eight survivors who managed to escape, and who have been waiting for the opportunity to steal back Winter’s magic and rebuild the kingdom ever since.

Orphaned as an infant during Winter’s defeat, Meira has lived her whole life as a refugee, raised by the Winterians’ general, Sir. Training to be a warrior—and desperately in love with her best friend, and future king, Mather — she would do anything to help her kingdom rise to power again.

So when scouts discover the location of the ancient locket that can restore Winter’s magic, Meira decides to go after it herself. Finally, she’s scaling towers, fighting enemy soldiers, and serving her kingdom just as she’s always dreamed she would. But the mission doesn’t go as planned, and Meira soon finds herself thrust into a world of evil magic and dangerous politics – and ultimately comes to realize that her destiny is not, never has been, her own.*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

 

My Review:

 

I have to say that at first this book was of to a slow start. But it started getting really good once I kept reading. The story was fantastic and amazing, and reminded me of a likeness of George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series.

 

My liking of the protagonist, Meira, was kind of off and on; sometimes I liked her fierceness, and sometimes I thought she was acting too much like a brat. I loved Theron and I hope that's who Meira ends up with at the endgame. His thoughtfulness and supportive nature made me swoon. He truly makes Meira a better person. Mather is weak, and if he truly loved Meira he wouldn't have betrayed her in the way that he did. All I know is, Meira better not end up with Mather or I will be pissed.

 

The revelations towards the end weren't surprising, as I had already guessed it (I'm good at guessing how a story will end) but it was still great. The end battles were written very well. The treatment of the Winter people reminded me of Avatar: The Last Air Bender. I definitely can't wait to read more.

Favorite Quotes:

"This" I lower my chakram. It's now aimed at the captain's left thigh. "They gave it to me and said throw! I don't even know how it works-" - Meira

There will always be a they in your life, Meira. They make decisions; they mold your future. The trick is to find a way to still be you through it all" - Theron

432 pages

Expected publication: October 14th 2014 by Balzer + Bray

 

Rating: 🔔🔔🔔🔔

Recommend? Worth a read.

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Review: "The Lazarus Prophecy" by F.G. Cottam

Synopsis:

Prime Suspect meets The Da Vinci Code in this original, suspenseful thriller.
There is a killer loose on the streets of London, one that evades security cameras, is not held by locks, and savagely mutilates his victims. When the murderer switches from unknown prostitutes to Julie Longmuir, a beautiful actress at the height of her success, no woman feels safe.

As the press begin to draw uncomfortable comparisons with Jack the Ripper, Jane Sullivan, heading up the police investigation, grudgingly has to agree. But the religious writing, scrawled on the wall in Julie Longmuir’s blood, is outside Jane’s area of expertise. Roping in Jacob Prior, a disillusioned theologian, they attempt to pick apart the demonic delusions of this Ripper copycat. They must act quickly, as events are spiraling out of control, and Jane is next on the killer’s list.

Jane will be tested beyond the limits of standard police work, as the esoteric insinuates itself into the investigation. For events are linked to the clandestine Priory in the Pyrenees, the home of a secret Christian sect that pre-dates the Knights Templar. Jane and Jacob are faced with a deeper mystery than they had ever dreamed of; are they simply dealing with a psychopath, or is this something bigger, is this The End of Days?*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

 

My Review:

 

The Lazarus Prophecy proves to be a thrilling ride for the reader. It features the Jack the Ripper legend with a supernatural twist, and is multi POV. I kept having heart palpitations and thinking who was next to be killed, every time the POV changed to a brand new character.

As a detective murder-mystery, discovering the clues was pretty fun; in a non-morbid way. The tie in with the Catholic priests and the new Ripper killings was out of this world. I definitely didn't see it coming.

 

I liked the chemistry between Jacob and Jane; the banter was very playful and engaging. All throughout the story, I wasn't sure how the author was going to wrap it all up nice and neat; this is a demon they are dealing with after all, and this is not the show Supernatural. However the book ended pretty good. I really enjoyed it.

 

Favorite Quote:

"Since I won't have the pleasure of doing so myself, please extend my farewells to Madame Reynard"

"Go to hell" - Jacob

Expected publication: September 9th 2014 by Bloomsbury

Rating: 🔔🔔🔔🔔🔔

Recommend?  Yes Please

 

(ARC courtesy of Net Galley and Bloomsbury Publishing)

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Review: "Children of the Morning" by Shanna Lauffey

Synopsis:

The Time Shifters are in danger. Someone wants what they have and are willing to kill if necessary to get it.

Akalya couldn’t hide in the past forever. The time has come to untangle the threads of a conspiracy so sinister that her very life hangs in the balance, as well as the lives of all of her kind.

Compelled by her promise to help Marcus, the half-breed, to learn to control his abilities, Akalya is conflicted by the need to go underground to elude the rich entrepreneur who continues to seek out others of her kind that even Akalya doesn’t know about, and the mysterious researcher working behind the scenes who already came too close to dissecting her best friend.

Akalya cannot leave, but she cannot stay. Most of all she must see that no more of her kind breed mutants like Marcus, who could become a danger to them all.
*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:

 

Thankfully this book was longer than its predecessor, so we get to see more of the characters and story. The writing is pretty good as well, however I wish there was more dialogue between the characters.

The story progresses very nicely, and we get to see more of the antagonists and their true intentions. I was glad to see more of Marcus and learn a little more about him. The introduction of new characters was well done, and kind of cool. I envy Akalya's ability to time travel.

 

Speaking of which, the further explanation of this story's time travel is becoming intriguing; I'm looking forward to learning more. The story is seriously demonstrating how people would condemn and defile those who have abilities. On another note, this novella series reminds me of The Tomorrow People and Jumper.

Published July 20th 2014

Rating: 🔔🔔🔔🔔

 

Recommend?  Yeah, it's a good series

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Review: "Blightborn" (The Heartland Trilogy #2) by Chuck Wendig

Synopsis:

 

Cael McAvoy is on the run. He’s heading toward the Empyrean to rescue his sister, Merelda, and to find Gwennie before she’s lost to Cael forever. With his pals, Lane and Rigo, Cael journeys across the Heartland to catch a ride into the sky. But with Boyland and others after them, Cael and his friends won’t make it through unchanged.

Gwennie’s living the life of a Lottery winner, but it’s not what she expected. Separated from her family, Gwennie makes a bold move—one that catches the attention of the Empyrean and changes the course of an Empyrean man’s life.

The crew from Boxelder aren’t the only folks willing to sacrifice everything to see the Empyrean fall. The question is: Can the others be trusted?

They’d all better hurry. Because the Empyrean has plans that could ensure that the Heartland never fights back again.

Chuck Wendig’s riveting sequel to Under the Empyrean Sky plunges readers into an unsettling world of inequality and destruction, and fleshes out a cast of ragtag characters all fighting for survival and, ultimately, change.

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:

Another brilliant cover art piece this one is. I must admit that I have not read the first book of the series, so ultimately I was lost at first. Thankfully it didn't take away from the story too much, and I was able to catch up with all the different storylines and subplots. I would consider this book high fantasy and a dystopian, that is filled with action, adventure and a little humor. The world Chuck Wendig is mind-blowing.

Blightborn definitely has a cast of characters within the story, and that is putting it lightly. From the tyrant to the courageous rebel leader to the homosexual sidekick; it was pretty entertaining. Each of their storylines pulled at my heart strings; I really felt empathetic to their predicament. There are also a whole lot of love triangles, which were kind of...weird. But then again, books reflect reality.

The writing was amazing and the story grabbed my attention from the first page. The length of the book is on the long side though, so beware. That ending left me in awe.  While I am impatiently awaiting the next book in the series, I might read the first book.

Published July 29th 2014 by Skyscape

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔🔔🔔

Recommend?  For anyone who enjoys dystopian novels

 

(ARC courtesy of Net Galley and Skyscape Publishing)

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Review: "The Bullet-Catcher's Daughter" (The Fall of the Gas-Lit Empire #1) by Rod Duncan

Synopsis:

 

Elizabeth Barnabus lives a double life—as herself and as her brother, the private detective. She is trying to solve the mystery of a disappearing aristocrat and a hoard of arcane machines. In her way stand the rogues, freaks and self-proclaimed alchemists of a travelling circus. But when she comes up against an agent of the all-powerful Patent Office, her life and the course of history will begin to change. And not necessarily for the better…*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

My Review:

The cover art of this book is as creative as the actual story. It gave me the feeling that I was reading a combination of The Master of Disguise and She's the Man, except this was more of a detective mystery with a steampunk element to it. I was definitely on the edge of my seat while reading. Also, the characters were likable for the most part.

Elizabeth is a pretty street-smart and cunning character. How she manages to lead a double life as her "twin brother Edwin, the detective" with none the wiser, is a mystery to me. There wasn't a lot of her past shown in the book, but what the reader does learn about her past is shocking indeed. Her strength of character is admirable, and I enjoyed her scenes with the illustrious John Farthing. The reader certainly doesn't know anything about Agent John
Farthing except that he's American; we do, however, see his attraction to Elizabeth. Tinker and Julia might be my favorite characters thus far. Julia's loyalty to Elizabeth is quite refreshing, and Tinker's cuteness is endearing. There are some sketchy characters as well..you'll see.

As for the story, "woah" is all I can say. I liked the "dancing bear trick" that was pulled on a certain character; it surprised me since I usually can guess the outcome of a story. The tie-in with the book's title was very clever as well. I am definitely tuning in for the next book. On a side note: I am still questioning if there was ever a brother? I have no idea.

384 pages

Expected publication: August 26th 2014 by Angry Robot
 

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔🔔

Recommend?    Oh Yeah!

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Review: "The Girl from the Well" by Rin Chupeco

Synopsis:

You may think me biased, being murdered myself. But my state of being has nothing to do with the curiosity toward my own species, if we can be called such. We do not go gentle, as your poet encourages, into that good night.

A dead girl walks the streets.

She hunts murderers. Child killers, much like the man who threw her body down a well three hundred years ago.

And when a strange boy bearing stranger tattoos moves into the neighborhood so, she discovers, does something else. And soon both will be drawn into the world of eerie doll rituals and dark Shinto exorcisms that will take them from American suburbia to the remote valleys and shrines of Aomori, Japan.

Because the boy has a terrifying secret - one that would just kill to get out.

The Girl from the Well is A YA Horror novel pitched as "Dexter" meets "The Grudge", based on a well-loved Japanese ghost story.

*(summary courtesy of Goodreads)

 

My Review:

 

How apt the description of Dexter meets The Grudge really is.  Horror is not really my thing unless I'm in a room full of people, with the lights on.  Yet this story was positively entertaining.

 

The ghost element of the story was perfectly executed (no pun intended).  The story of Okiku is actually a real one.  I had known movies were based off of the concept, but truly didn't know that it was a real Japanese folklore story.  How Okiku came to be in the book was sad to read.

 

How the story unfolded was pretty great.  The concept of possession and exorcism was fascinating to read in another culture's POV.  The exorcism scared me though.  I could picture it perfectly, but I would prefer to never have to witness one.  The Smiling Man was absolutely revolting to me; he made my skin crawl. 

 

The characters were irritating at times, though.  Sometimes Tarquin was a brat, but maybe it's understandable with all he's been through.  The cousin, Callie, irritated me to no end!  Every two seconds she's second guessing Okiku's intentions; if it wasn't for Okiku, who knows what would have happened to Callie. Still, it wasn't enough, and she was always ungrateful in every scene she was in.

 

Not that I would want a ghost following me around, but Okiku seems pretty legit; she's totally awesome. On another note: why does Tarquin's mother have the name Yoko?  And her husband is Caucasian as well; it's like an overt hint.  All in All, this book proves a captivating read.

 

304 pages

Expected publication: August 5th 2014 by Sourcebooks Fire

Rating:  🔔🔔🔔

 

Recommend?  Yes

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