True by Erin McCarthy

Title:          True Publisher:   PENGUIN GROUP Pub Date:   07/05/2013 ISBN:        9781101623152 Author:      Erin McCarthy A captivating New Adult novel from New York Times bestselling author Erin McCarthy. When Rory Macintosh’s roommates find out that their studious and shy friend has never been with a guy, they decide that, as an act of kindness they’ll help her lose her virginity by hiring confident, tattooed bad boy Tyler Mann to do the job…unbeknownst to Rory. Tyler knows he’s not good enough for Rory. She’s smart, doctor smart, while he’s barely scraping by at his EMT program, hoping to pull his younger brothers out of the hell their druggy mother has left them in. But he can’t resist taking up her roommates on an opportunity to get to know her better. There’s something about her honesty that keeps him coming back when he knows he shouldn’t… Torn between common sense and desire, the two find themselves caught up in a passionate relationship. But when Tyler’s broken family threatens to destroy his future, and hers, Rory will need to decide whether to cut her ties to his risky world or follow her heart, no matter what the cost…

My understanding is this is Erin McCarthy's debut on Young Adult genre. This is her very first book that I read so I can't compare to her other books. When I started to read this book, I find the pace is kind of slow and it does not really attract me to continue reading. I put it aside for a while, and few weeks later I come back to pick it up again. And this time, I find that the book is actually not that bad after all. It's a bad boy with good girl kind of story.

As I read along, I slowly find myself attracted to Rosy and Tyler and just want to read more about them. What I like most about them is their honesty. They have been very honest with each other, especially Rosy, in which this is very important in all relationship. I think without this honesty, they probably would never get together. Although Tyler has not been very open with Rosy about the deal with her roommates, but he did not deny it when Rosy questioned him about that. And most important he never hide anything about the situation of his family to her. Which to me that's a plus point. The more I read, the more I like about Tyler. I actually can't hold my tears reading the part what Tyler's mom has done to him. I could not believe that she actually did it. I find the ending is a little brief though. I wish to read more what happen to Tyler after school reopen, whether did he get to continue studying or not, and the impact on that incident to his future. Nonetheless, overall it's a good read.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. I'm looking forward to read the next book about Jessica.


Note: I receive the ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Galley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Reaping Me Softly (The Reaper Series #1) by Kate Evangelista

From Goodreads: - Ever since a near-death-experience on the operating table, seventeen-year-old Arianne Wilson can see dead people. Just as she’s learned to accept her new-found talents, she discovers that the boy she’s had a crush on since freshman year, Niko Clark, is a Reaper. At last they have something in common, but that doesn’t mean life is getting any easier. All while facing merciless bullying from the most powerful girl in school, Arianne’s world is turned upside down after Niko accidentally reaps the soul of someone she loves. This sends them both into a spiral that threatens to end Arianne’s life. But will Niko break his own Reaper’s code to save her? And what would the consequences be if he did?

Reaping Me Softly is an interesting read. It's nice to read something that is not vampire or werewolf in the paranormal genre. The author did a good job in developing the plot as well as the characters in the story. Niko was a refreshing character. I like how he took care Arianne and trying his best way to protect her. Arianne was a kind and a lovely girl who cared a lot for her family. I envy her best-friend-like relationship with her sister Carrie. And how far she would do for her sister. Arianne's best friend, Ben is a very likeable character too. And I was not surprise of his action at the ending. Another very interesting character here was Death. Kate made Death and his minion, the reaper totally different from the 'traditional'. The idea of the reaper could grow old like normal human being, and then be reborn, made the romance between Niko and Arianne very possible. I won't say the ending is unpredictable. But I really did not see the "losing memory" part coming. And honestly, I'm anxious to read the next installment of the series.

I enjoy reading this book very much. I rate it 3 out of 5 stars.

City of Bones (The Mortal Instruments #1) by Cassandra Clare

From Goodreads: - When fifteen-year-old Clary Fray heads out to the Pandemonium Club in New York City, she hardly expects to witness a murder -- much less a murder committed by three teenagers covered with strange tattoos and brandishing bizarre weapons. Then the body disappears into thin air. It's hard to call the police when the murderers are invisible to everyone else and when there is nothing -- not even a smear of blood -- to show that a boy has died. Or was he a boy? This is Clary's first meeting with the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons. It's also her first encounter with Jace, a Shadowhunter who looks a little like an angel and acts a lot like a jerk. Within twenty-four hours Clary is pulled into Jace's world with a vengeance, when her mother disappears and Clary herself is attacked by a demon. But why would demons be interested in ordinary mundanes like Clary and her mother? And how did Clary suddenly get the Sight? The Shadowhunters would like to know. . . . Exotic and gritty, exhilarating and utterly gripping, Cassandra Clare's ferociously entertaining fantasy takes readers on a wild ride that they will never want to end.

I find the story is quite interesting. However I feel the pace is rather slow. There are lots of actions throughout the whole book. I admire Clary's courage. She did not show any fear after knowing about her mom and her true identity. Instead, she embraces the upcoming challenges with open heart and courage. I salute her for that. And I'm glad that she's not alone in her journey. Besides the main characters, I find the other supporting characters are equally shinning in the story. And they all play an important role throughout Clary's adventures in the Shadowhunter world. The ending is a little out of my expectation. And made me can't wait to read the next book in the series.

Overall it's quite a good read. I rate it 3 out of 5 stars.

Starring Me by Krista McGee

Title:         Starring Me Publisher:  Thomas Nelson Pub Date:  July 10, 2012 ISBN:        9781401684891 Author:     Krista McGee Kara McKormick is told she's auditioning to star in a new teen variety show. But it's what she isn't told that could change her life. The feisty New Yorker moves to sunny Orlando to participate in a month-long audition, where she'll live with nine other contestants and an eccentric housemother. Kara knows that the show already has a big-time celebrity lined up for the co-host, but she doesn't know who it is. Chad Beacon quickly rose to fame after winning America's Next Star, but he doesn't want his entire career to be about singing. There is so much more he wants to do-like act. The new variety show sounds like the perfect next step for him, but his parents want him to have a co-star who shares his faith since they'll be spending so much time together. Acting is high on Kara's priority list. But a relationship with God? Not so much. In fact, she's tried to stay away from anything religious. But God is after Kara's heart and He's put people in her life who are showing her there's far more to Christianity than rules and judgment. And just when it seems that Kara's going to have to give up her acting dream, God reveals that she may have a starring role after all-in a story so big only He could write it.

This is a light and easy read. Kara and Chad both are very likable characters. Both Kara and Chad are down to earth people and brought up well by their parents. I like the way Kara handles the other participants. I'm also amazed by Chad on his faith at the God, who believe the God will choose the right girl for his show. The story is a little similar to First Date, the first book in the series, but nonetheless I enjoy it very much. It is an easy read, and yet a page turner. Though Starring Me is more on how Kara finally turn to become a Christian, the story is not preachy at all. And I enjoy reading those audition scene very much. If you need something simple to read and relax, this is a book for you.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the digital ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Taste by Kate Evangelista

From Goodreads: - At Barinkoff Academy, there's only one rule: no students on campus after curfew. Phoenix McKay soon finds out why when she is left behind at sunset. A group calling themselves night students threaten to taste her flesh until she is saved by a mysterious, alluring boy. With his pale skin, dark eyes, and mesmerizing voice, Demitri is both irresistible and impenetrable. He warns her to stay away from his dangerous world of flesh eaters. Unfortunately, the gorgeous and playful Luka has other plans. When Phoenix is caught between her physical and her emotional attraction, she becomes the keeper of a deadly secret that will rock the foundations of an ancient civilization living beneath Barinkoff Academy. Phoenix doesn't realize until it is too late that the closer she gets to both Demitri and Luka the more she is plunging them all into a centuries old feud.

I was attracted to the book cover and the storyline of this book. And as I started reading, I just could not put it down. I was drawn into their world and both Demitri and Luka were irresistible.

The book is quite an easy read. The story is very original. And the pace is good, except I feel that it's rather rush towards the ending. Characters are well developed. While it shows how attractive Demitri is to Phoenix, but I don't think it shows or explains how Demitri has developed deep feeling for Phoenix. I wonder is there any sequel to this book.  

I enjoy reading it very much. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.

Mockingjay (The Hunger Games #3) by Suzanne Collins

 

My name is Katniss Everdeen. Why am I not dead? I should be dead. Katniss Everdeen, girl on fire, has survived, even though her home has been destroyed. Gale has escaped. Katniss's family is safe. Peeta has been captured by the Capitol. District 13 really does exist. There are rebels. There are new leaders. A revolution is unfolding. It is by design that Katniss was rescued from the arena in the cruel and haunting Quarter Quell, and it is by design that she has long been part of the revolution without knowing it. District 13 has come out of the shadows and is plotting to overthrow the Capitol. Everyone, it seems, has had a hand in the carefully laid plains--except Katniss. The success of the rebellion hinges on Katniss's willingness to be a pawn, to accept responsibility for countless lives, and to change the course of the future of Panem. To do this, she must put aside her feelings of anger and distrust. She must become the rebels' Mockingjay--no matter what the personal cost.

This is the 3rd and last book of The Hunger Games series. This is my very first YA series on Dystopian. And honestly, the whole series makes me think a lot.

After the cliffhanger ending of Catching Fire, Mockingjay picked up from there. The whole story is depressing. It makes me wonder, what Katniss has done to make her deserve such torture, to go through all these? In Mockingjay, not only things out of her control, it was out of Peeta's control as well. I feel sad knowing what Peeta had to go through. I feel even sad knowing there's nothing that Katniss could do to improve Peeta's situation. To me, it's a war that should not involve Katniss and the rest. Unfortunately, some of her actions in the Hunger Games indirectly making herself get involved with no option to say no.

The more I read Mockingjay, the more I feel the world has become so cruel. Towards the end when I read about what happened to Katniss's sister Primrose, my first thought is - if this is what will happen to Prim at the end, then it's become worthless for Katniss to sacrifice herself volunteered for the Hunger Games replacing Primrose at the first place. Anyway, the ending is not that bad after all. Other than the story is depressing, the writing style is good. The emotional roller coaster that Katniss had gone through are so vivid and helpless. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.

Epic Fail by Claire LaZebnik

From Goodreads: Will Elise's love life be an epic win or an epic fail? At Coral Tree Prep in Los Angeles, who your parents are can make or break you. Case in point: As the son of Hollywood royalty, Derek Edwards is pretty much prince of the school--not that he deigns to acknowledge many of his loyal subjects. As the daughter of the new principal, Elise Benton isn't exactly on everyone's must-sit-next-to-at-lunch list. When Elise's beautiful sister catches the eye of the prince's best friend, Elise gets to spend a lot of time with Derek, making her the envy of every girl on campus. Except she refuses to fall for any of his rare smiles and instead warms up to his enemy, the surprisingly charming social outcast Webster Grant. But in this hilarious tale of fitting in and flirting, not all snubs are undeserved, not all celebrity brats are bratty, and pride and prejudice can get in the way of true love for only so long.

I thought I won't enjoy reading high school romance thinking that they may be childish but I was so wrong. I actually enjoy reading this book very much. Every bit of it. And Elise, her sister Juliana, Derek and his best friend Chase are definitely mature for their age. I envy at the close relationship between Elise and Juliana. I wish I have a sister that I can trust on and talk to on everything. And both of them are brought up well by their parents. I like the way their father treated them as adult and having trust on them. As for Derek, despite his celebrity parents, he was brought up well as well and he's lucky to have Chase as his best friend. Both of them though coming from rich family, they do not look down on Elise and Juliana. I enjoy reading how the four of them interacting with each other; how Elise not to fall for Derek; how Elise changed her mind about Derek after getting to know more about him; and how Derek wins Elise's heart by being himself.

The plot is simple. The pace is good. The story is sweet and warm-hearted. I think it teaches some good values especially to the teenagers.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.

Catching Fire (The Hunger Games #2) by Suzanne Collins

From Goodreads: Against all odds, Katniss has won the Hunger Games. She and fellow District 12 tribute Peeta Mellark are miraculously still alive. Katniss should be relieved, happy even. After all, she has returned to her family and longtime friend, Gale. Yet nothing is the way Katniss wishes it to be. Gale holds her at an icy distance. Peeta has turned his back on her completely. And there are whispers of a rebellion against the Capitol - a rebellion that Katniss and Peeta may have helped create. Much to her shock, Katniss has fueled an unrest she's afraid she cannot stop. And what scares her even more is that she's not entirely convinced she should try. As time draws near for Katniss and Peeta to visit the districts on the Capitol's cruel Victory Tour, the stakes are higher than ever. If they can't prove, without a shadow of a doubt, that they are lost in their love for each other, the consequences will be horrifying. In Catching Fire, the second novel of the Hunger Games trilogy, Suzanne Collins continues the story of Katniss Everdeen, testing her more than ever before... and surprising readers at every turn.

While The Hunger Games is depressing, reading Catching Fire actually made me see a different picture on this series and begin to like it. Though I get a little annoyed with Katniss over her indecision whether her heart belongs to Gale or Peeta, but I do admire her courage, her kind heart and her love and protection for her family. Just when we thought she and Peeta can have some peace and normal life after winning the Hunger Game, the twists and unexpected turn of the event change it all. Peeta continued to impress me in Catching Fire with his brilliant mind and his courage. With the past experience, he's more prepared with what he's going to face this time.

I also like other secondary characters in this book. The author has done a very good job at developing everyone including all the secondary characters. The ending is definitely unexpected. But make a good entry point for the next book in the series.

I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.

Goddess Interrupted by Aimee Carter

Title:         Goddess Interrupted SubTitle:   The Goddess Test Series: Book II Publisher:  Harlequin Imprint:     HarlequinTEEN Pub Date:  March 27, 2012 ISBN:        9780373210459 Author:     Aimee Carter WHAT IF IMMORTALITY ISN’ T FOREVER? KATE WINTERS HAS WON IMMORTALITY. BUT IF SHE WANTS A LIFE WITH HENRY IN THE UNDERWORLD, SHE’LL HAVE TO FIGHT FOR IT. Becoming immortal wasn’t supposed to be the easy part. Though Kate is about to be crowned Queen of the Underworld, she’s as isolated as ever. And despite her growing love for Henry, ruler of the Underworld, he’s becoming ever more distant and secretive. Then, in the midst of Kate’s coronation, Henry is abducted by the only being powerful enough to kill him: the King of the Titans. As the other gods prepare for a war that could end them all, it is up to Kate to save Henry from the depths of Tartarus. But in order to navigate the endless caverns of the Underworld, Kate must enlist the help of the one person who is the greatest threat to her future. Henry’s first wife, Persephone. Book Trailer:

I'm not too sure what to expect from this book 2 from the series, but I actually enjoy this book more than The Goddess Test. The story continues from The Goddess Test, with an unexpected turn of event. I enjoy reading the surprises and the twist. Although I wish there's more about Kate and Henry. Sometimes I feel like want to strangulate Kate for having doubts on Henry; but at the same time I also feel like want to kill Henry why can't he just tell Kate what she wants? The story definitely get me hooked that I actually finish reading the book in one sitting. And the ending was just shocking! I can't believe the author is so cruel to leave such cliff hanger ending for us. Now I can't wait for the next book in the series!

I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.

Note: I receive the digital ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers

Title:         Grave Mercy SubTitle:   His Fair Assassin, Book 1 Publisher:  Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Imprint:     Houghton Mifflin Pub Date:  April 03, 2012 ISBN:        9780547628349 Author:     Robin LaFevers Why be the sheep, when you can be the wolf? Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others. Ismae’s most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?

I like the book cover very much! It's the book cover that attracts me at the first place. The story is very interesting. It's a historical fiction, with some elements of the romance in it. The story may look a little dark with those training and killings being an assassin, but nothing brutal. I'm intrigued with those assassin trainings from the convent. Even though the trainings and the rules in convent was very strict, but it did not stop Ismae from making good friends with few other girls there. And instead just blindly follow the order from the convent, I'm glad that Ismae at the end actually give some time to ponder and do her own analysis before carrying out her duty as handmaiden. And her honesty and courage telling the abbess about her mind. It's like you can just see how she has grow by carrying out the order from the convent. It's just a little less convincing that how naive she is when comes to between man and woman, despite those seduction lessons at the convent as part of her training. Duval is another like-able character. I like the way he protects his sister. And Anne, being strong despite her young age.

In summary, Grave Mercy is a good read. Although I feel that the introduction is a little lengthy and slow. But nonetheless I enjoy reading it very much, especially the part Ismae works as the spy in the court. I'm looking forward for the next book in the series next Spring.

I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the digital ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Hunger Games (The Hunger Games #1) by Suzanne Collins

From Goodreads: n the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV. Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who lives alone with her mother and younger sister Primrose, regards it as a death sentence when she steps forward to take her sister's place in the Games. But Katniss has been close to dead before — and survival, for her, is second nature. Without really meaning to, she becomes a contender. But if she is to win, she will have to start making choices that will weigh survival against humanity and life against love.

I have been reading a lots of good comments about this Hunger Games series. I'm not too sure what my expectations suppose to be, but I feel depressing reading this book 1. Why? Because I found the story is kind of cruel. I find it's a bit hard for me to accept that the children are forced to kill each other for the sake of entertainment for the others. How cruel it is. But that's this Hunger Games is all about.

Despite depressing, I would say this whole story is very well written. The plot is good, the characters are well developed with strong heroine. Katniss definitely has strong will to stay alive in the Hunger Games despite having mixed feeling to Peeta. Peeta even though does not have those survival skills that Katniss is having, but he definitely knows what he's good at and manage to survive long enough until Katniss comes to save him. About Haymitch, I almost get cheated by his addiction on alcohol. He's definitely a smart and brilliant one when he's sober.

Although depressing, but I do enjoy reading the part when they are in the arena. Who is ally and who is enemy? Katniss has to make the right judgment and choices in order to survive. In the arena, just physically strong and skillful are not sufficient. The Hunger Games is a show. Response from the audience do play some parts.

Though depressing, but I think it's worth reading. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.

The Warrior Heir by Cinda Williams Chima

Title:         The Warrior Heir Publisher:  Disney-Hyperion Pub Date:  March 28, 2006 ISBN:        9780786839179 Author:     Cinda Williams Chima Before he knew about the Roses, 16-year-old Jack lived an unremarkable life in the small Ohio town of Trinity. Only the medicine he has to take daily and the thick scar above his heart set him apart from the other high-schoolers. Then one day Jack skips his medicine. Suddenly, he is stronger, fiercer, and more confident than ever before. And it feels great-until he loses control of his own strength and nearly kills another player during soccer team tryouts. Soon, Jack learns the startling truth about himself: He is Weirlind; part of an underground society of magical people who live among us. At the head of this magical society sit the feuding houses of the Red Rose and the White Rose, whose power is determined by playing The Game-a magical tournament in which each house sponsors a warrior to fight to the death. The winning house rules the Weir. As if his bizarre magical heritage isn't enough, Jack finds out that he's not just another member of Weirlind-he's one of the last of the warriors-at a time when both houses are scouting for a player.

I find the story is kind of interesting. Despite the pace is a little slow, the development of the story and the characters are quite good. The thing that keep me reading the book is the tournament and the outcome of it. There are few twists that out of my expectations. But his opponent at the tournament was someone that I have expected. Though the ending is kind of unexpected and a little disappointed, but I think it's still a good ending.

Overall it was worth the read, especially if you like a story with lots of actions and adventures, with some suspense elements in it. I would like to read the other 2 books in this series.

I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.

First Date by Krista McGee

Title:         First Date Publisher:  Thomas Nelson Pub Date:  January 10, 2012 ISBN:        9781401684884 Author:      Krista McGee Addy Davidson is the last girl in the country who wants to be on the new reality TV show to win a date to prom with the President’s son. She’s focused on her schoolwork so she can get a scholarship to an Ivy League college, uncomfortable in the spotlight, never been on a date, and didn’t even audition for it. But she got selected anyway. So she does her best to get eliminated on the very first show… right before she realizes that the President’s son is possibly the most attractive guy she has ever seen in person, surprisingly nice, and seemingly unimpressed by the 99 other girls who are throwing themselves at him. Addy’s totally out of her comfort zone—but that may be right where God can show her the most about who she is . . . and who she was meant to be.

The story is fun and light-hearted. It's like a modern fairy tale story. I like the pace of the story, not too fast and not slow at all. I like to see how much Addy has grow throughout the whole audition period. And she's lucky to have Kara as her roommate. Despite all the spotlight, Jonathan surprisingly is a humble and kind gentleman. The moments between Jonathan and Addy are sweet and adorable.

I like the way the story is being tell. Slowly, more and more about Abby and her past are being unfolded. The entries from her mother's journals are very touching. And it's interesting to see how the author has included the religion element in the story. It's very refreshing. I enjoy reading it very much.

I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.

Note: I receive the digital ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Rules of Attraction (Perfect Chemistry #2) by Simone Elkeles

From Goodreads: When Carlos Fuentes returns to America after living in Mexico for the past year, he doesn't want any part of the life his older brother, Alex, has laid out for him in Colorado. When he meets Kiara Westford, a good girl totally unlike any of the girls he's usually drawn to, Carlos assumes Kiara thinks she's too good for him. But will he put his pride aside when he realizes that being with Kiara might finally allow him to be his true self?

Did I say I love Perfect Chemistry? And I do love this book 2 about Carlos too. It's written in similar writing style as Perfect Chemistry, a narration alternating between Carlos and Kiara. I started to like this kind of writing style - getting inside the head of both main characters. I was a little frustrating with Carlos actually. Why he kept the thing to himself without telling his brother Alex about it. I guess it's guys thing. Anyway, no matter how bad he is I just could not hate him. I like Kiara too. She's different from other girls. And she had an amazing parents! A parents that respect her, trust her, treat her as an adult. They were very open minded. I like the way her dad talked to her and Carlos. I wanted to learn from him on how to communicate with my kids. :) 

Carlos did not like Kiara at the beginning actually. And likewise for Kiara. It was fun to see how they interacted with each other, and how their relationship developed naturally. The pace was good. I simply cant' put down this book as I was eager to know what would happen to Carlos. 


I enjoy this book very much. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars. 

Perfect Chemistry (Perfect Chemistry #1) by Simone Elkeles

From Goodreads: A fresh, urban twist on the classic tale of star-crossed lovers. When Brittany Ellis walks into chemistry class on the first day of senior year, she has no clue that her carefully created “perfect” life is about to unravel before her eyes. She’s forced to be lab partners with Alex Fuentes, a gang member from the other side of town, and he is about to threaten everything she's worked so hard for—her flawless reputation, her relationship with her boyfriend, and the secret that her home life is anything but perfect. Alex is a bad boy and he knows it. So when he makes a bet with his friends to lure Brittany into his life, he thinks nothing of it. But soon Alex realizes Brittany is a real person with real problems, and suddenly the bet he made in arrogance turns into something much more. In a passionate story about looking beneath the surface, Simone Elkeles breaks through the stereotypes and barriers that threaten to keep Brittany and Alex apart.

I love this book, very very much. It was beautifully written. When I was reading this book, I feel that the pictures were running in front of me, as if I was watching a movie rather than reading a book. The story is written in first POV, alternating between Brittany and Alex. Alex supposed was a bad boy. However he's a likeable character. I find his character is very interesting. A bad boy, and yet he did nothing that make me dislike him. Even if he bet with his friend on luring Brittany, but then he regretted it. Brittany seems having a perfect life. But she was just doing it as a show. I like how she loves her sister, how she takes care her sister, to the extent that her sister is in her future plan. The relationship between Alex and Brittany was developed naturally. And it was fun to see how they interact with each other. The pace is good. The story also flows very smoothly despite the chapters are alternating between Alex and Brittany. I simply can't put down this book. And it's a book that I will read again.

I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.

There You'll Find Me by Jenny B. Jones

Title:         There You'll Find Me Publisher:  Thomas Nelson Pub Date: 10/04/2011 ISBN:      9781595545404 Author:     Jenny B Jones From Goodreads: In a small cottage house in rural Ireland, Finley discovers she can no longer outrun the past. When Finley travels to Ireland as a foreign exchange student, she hopes to create a new identity and get some answers from the God who took her brother away and seems to have left her high and dry. But from the moment she boards the plane and sits by Beckett Rush, teen star of the hottest vampire flicks, nothing goes according to Finley's plan. When she gets too close to Beckett, a classmate goes on a mission to make sure Finley packs her bags, departs Ireland-and leaves Beckett alone. Finley feels the pressure all around. As things start to fall apart, she begins to rely on a not-so-healthy method of taking control of her life. Finley tries to balance it all-disasters on the set of Beckett's new movie, the demands of school, and her growing romance with one actor who is not what he seems. Yet Finley is also not who she portrays to Beckett and her friends. For the first time in her life, Finley must get honest with herself to get right with God.

I love the last book that I read from Jenny B. Jones. So when I saw her new book was available at netgalley, I couldn't resist not to request it. And I know I will regret if I did not get to read this book, as this is a good book.

The story line is very simple - Finley Sinclair's experiences in Ireland as a foreign exchange student. She had chosen Ireland because she wanted to retrace the footsteps of her brother, Will, who had been killed in a terrorist attack two years ago. She had gone through a hard time after her brother was killed, and she was still struggling with coping the loss of her brother. Will left a traveling journal when he was in Ireland. Finley wanted to follow the footsteps to see what her brother had seen, and also to find a way to change her life. 

In this trip, Finley had to learn to deal with Beckett Rush, a young and famous actor who was not her type; the girls at school who was giving her some tough time; the assignment on a local nursing home, where the woman she was assigned with, Mrs Sweeney, was dying. Finley feared that she could not cope with another death after losing her brother. However on the process on helping Mrs Sweeney, and Finley's constant interaction with Beckett, Finley learnt that not everything that she saw must be the truth. I like the parts between Finley and her music teacher Sister Maria, who tells her to listen to the God.

The story was beautifully written. It is very inspiring, and very realistic story. I enjoy reading this book very much. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the digital ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Royal Treatment by Lindsey Leavitt

Title:         The Royal Treatment SubTitle:    A Princess for Hire Book Publisher:   Disney-Hyperion Pub Date:  05/03/2011 ISBN:       9781423121930 Author:     Lindsey Leavitt What girl wouldn't swoon over outrageous perks like free jewelry, designer clothes, and the chance to hang out with crush-worthy Prince Karl? But best of all, Desi gets one-on-one time with Genevieve, the head of the super-secret and ultra glamorous Façade agency. She's taken a special interest in Desi's magical abilities. But between Desi's BEST (Betterment of Elite Sub Training) program, starting the eighth grade, trying out for the school play, and dealing with the cute-but-bossy new boy Reed, she's beginning to feel like she's in over her head.  Even worse, when Desi learns a secret about the magic that keeps Façade running, she realizes that not everything is as perfect as it seems. Full of humor and heart, this second installment in the Princess for Hire series shows Desi that the royal treatment may just be masking mysteries, and only she can uncover the truth....one princess at a time!

The story is fun, girlish and suitable for any pre-teen girls who like to read about princess and stuff. It was about the adventures of Desi being a princess for hire for any princess in the world that wants to take a break from the royal life; and the real Desi when she was not on any princess duty. Imagine you get to be a princess, enjoying the royal life even though just a temporary substitute. The story is fun, humorous and filled with good moral values. It is a light-hearted and easy read. While you may enjoy more if you have the first book in the series, but it's alright to read this as standalone too. 

I rate it 3 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the digital copy of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Dead Beautiful by Yvonne Woon

From Goodreads: On the morning of her sixteenth birthday, Renée Winters was still an ordinary girl. She spent her summers at the beach, had the perfect best friend, and had just started dating the cutest guy at school. No one she'd ever known had died. But all that changes when she finds her parents dead in the Redwood Forest, in what appears to be a strange double murder. After the funeral Renée’s wealthy grandfather sends her to Gottfried Academy, a remote and mysterious boarding school in Maine, where she finds herself studying subjects like Philosophy, Latin, and the “Crude Sciences.” It’s there that she meets Dante Berlin, a handsome and elusive boy to whom she feels inexplicably drawn. As they grow closer, unexplainable things begin to happen, but Renée can’t stop herself from falling in love. It’s only when she discovers a dark tragedy in Gottfried’s past that she begins to wonder if the Academy is everything it seems. Little does she know, Dante is the one hiding a dangerous secret, one that has him fearing for her life. Dead Beautiful is both a compelling romance and thought-provoking read, bringing shocking new meaning to life, death, love, and the nature of the soul.

This is the first book for the Dead Beautiful series. I actually read the second book before reading this first book. So I sort of knowing their relationship but it does not hinder me from enjoying reading this book 1.

Renee was devastated after foung both of her parents were died on her sixteenth birthday. And then she had to leave her best friend and other friends behind to go to a boarding school where she had no friend there at all. And I would say she handled it very well, show that she's independent.

Most part of the book was about Renee's life in Gottfried Academy. Despite the strict school rules, with the interesting subjects, new friends, and things that happened last summer at that school, made Renee's new life very much interesting and adventurous. Imagine the excitement sneaked out the bedroom through fire place after the curfew; secretly dating a guy who did not socialize with the other students; being called to headmistress for breaking the school rules. Renee was a smart girl, and always speak for her mind despite it got her into trouble. And she determined to find out the truth of her parent's death, as well as what happened last summer in Gottfried.

With the new environment and new friends, Renee started drifting apart with her previous best friend. While her roommate Eleanor became her best friend. I actually feel pity to Eleanor, as what had happened to her was not her fault. She was a victim. A very unfortunate for her. The ending was unexpected.

In overall, it was a good read to me. There was enough mystery and suspense to make me keep on turning the pages searching for the answer. There were also some "oh no" moments that made me worry for Renee, eager to know what would happen to her.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.

The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa

Title:         The Iron Knight
SubTitle:    Book 4 in the Iron Fey Series
Publisher:   Harlequin
Imprint:      HarlequinTEEN
Pub Date:  10/25/2011
ISBN:        9780373210367
Author:      Julie Kagawa

Book Description:

Ash, former prince of the Winter Court, gave up everything. His title, his home, even his vow of loyalty. All for a girl… and all for nothing.

Unless he can earn a soul.

To cold, emotionless faery prince Ash, love was a weakness for mortals and fools. His own love had died a horrible death, killing any gentler feelings the Winter prince might have had. Or so he thought.

Then Meghan Chase—a half human, half fey slip of a girl— smashed through his barricades, binding him to her irrevocably with his oath to be her knight. And when all of Faery nearly fell to the Iron fey, she severed their bond to save his life. Meghan is now the Iron Queen, ruler of a realm where no Winter or Summer fey can  survive.

With the (unwelcome) company of his archrival, Summer Court prankster Puck, and the infuriating cait sith Grimalkin, Ash begins a journey he is bound to see through to its end— a quest to find a way to honor his solemn vow to stand by Meghan’s side.

To survive in the Iron realm, Ash must have a soul and a mortal body. But the tests he must face to earn these things are impossible. At least, no one has ever passed to tell the tale.

And then Ash learns something that changes everything. A truth that turns reality upside down, challenges his darkest beliefs and shows him that, sometimes, it takes more than courage to make the ultimate sacrifice.


My Review:

Finally the long awaited The Iron Knight, book 4 also the last book of the Iron Fey series is available in Net Galley. And being a big fan of The Iron Fey series, I request it straight away. :)

Unlike the previous 3 books (The Iron King, The Iron Daughter and The Iron Queen) written from Meghan's POV, The Iron Knight is written in Ash's POV which I think it's perfect! I always like Ash since The Iron King. I still remember the first time Ash met with Meghan when Meghan first come to the faery realm. Ash, being the 3rd prince from the Winter Court, was a cold, emotionless and obedient child to the queen of Winter Court. However he started to change after meeting with Meghan Chase. We may not know much on what's inside his mind of this cool prince but one thing we know is, Meghan had melted the ice around his heart and he had vowed to protect this woman that he loved by her side. In order to keep his promise, he had to earn a soul for himself, a quest that no other fey had succeeded before.

In The Iron Knight, finally we get to know many thoughts and emotion of Ash throughout the whole journey to earn a soul for him self. We get to learn his doubt, struggling whether he had made the right decision; whether he was able to protect the woman that he loved after becoming human, as human is less strong than a fey. We also get to learn about his past, the dark side of his life before meeting Meghan; his resentment and his feelings towards the people around him. Yes he's not perfect. But I admire his courage to do something no one has got passed before, to keep his promise; a promise for the woman that he loved so much; a woman that he's willing to sacrifice everything just to keep his promise. How many people can really do that? Or willing to do that? 

Ash was a lucky one too, seeing there were bunch of people who were willing to risk themselves to join him in his quest, to help him to get his quest done. Despite they had their own reason or purpose on helping him; nonetheless they had the same goal - to help Ash to get the quest done. It's a dangerous journey. I really doubt that without them, can Ash made it through?

Despite without Meghan involved in the journey, The Iron Knight is not bored and does not disappoint me at all. In fact, the author has done an excellent job writing about Ash, as well as giving a wonderful ending to this Iron Fey series. I like the plot of the story. It is unpredictable and never stops giving me surprises. And I'm pleased with the good ending for everyone, although I feel sad that the whole series has come to an end. I never love the main characters that much in other books!

I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. If you are a YA or fantasy lover, I highly recommend you to read this Iron Fey series. Watch the book trailer of the first 3 books in the series:




About Julie Kagawa:

Born in Sacramento, California, Julie Kagawa moved to Hawaii at the age of nine. There she learned many things: how to bodyboard, that teachers scream when you put centipedes in their desks and that writing stories in math class is a fantastic way to kill time. Her teachers were glad to see her graduate. Julie now lives in Louisville, Kentucky, with her husband and a plethora of pets. She still laughs whenever she sees  centipede. Visit her at www.juliekagawa.com.


Note: I receive the ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Atomic Weight of Secrets or The Arrival of the Mysterious Men in Black by Eden Unger Bowditch

Title:         The Atomic Weight of Secrets or The Arrival of the Mysterious Men in Black
SubTitle:   The Young Inventors Guild: Book One
Publisher:  Bancroft Press
Pub Date:  03/15/2011
ISBN:        9781610880022
Author:      Eden Unger Bowditch

Book Summary: -

In 1903, five truly brilliant young inventors, the children of the world’s most important scientists, are taken from their lives and their parents by the mysterious men in black. They take twelve-year-old Jasper and six-year-old Lucy Modest from London, England; nine-year-old Wallace Banneker from New York, United States; twelve-year-old Noah Canto-Sagas from Toronto, Canada; and thirteen-year-old Faye Vigyanveta from New Delhi, India, depositing them all at a strange, isolated farmhouse in Dayton, Ohio, with kindly schoolteacher Miss Brett. But what mysterious invention have all the children, unbeknownst to one another, been working on? Who are the men in black? And are the men in black trying to kidnap them—or protect them?



My Review: -

The starting of this book is very slow. Until I almost want to give up reading. Anyway the pace never really increases later. But I was curious to know who are these men in black and whether they are good or bad guys. I was also curious whether the children will successfully run away and rescue their parents or not. One thing the children learn is that a man dress in suit not necessary is a gentleman; a man dress in weirdo outfit not necessary is a bad guy. From being a lonesome the children learn to make friend with each other and work together as a team. The ending was rather disappointing. But I guess we suppose to find the answer from Book 2 or probably Book 3 since it is a trilogy.

I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.