Mini Review: They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera

They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera
Length: 368 pages
Genre: Young Adult, Magical Realism, LGBTQ
Publisher: Harper Teen
Source: The library.
Purchase: Barnes & Noble | Amazon | The Book Depository
My Rating:

Goodreads Summary: On September 5, a little after midnight, Death-Cast calls Mateo Torrez and Rufus Emeterio to give them some bad news: They're going to die today. Mateo and Rufus are total strangers, but, for different reasons, they're both looking to make a new friend on their End Day. The good news: There's an app for that. It's called the Last Friend, and through it, Rufus and Mateo are about to meet up for one last great adventure and to live a lifetime in a single day.

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My Mini Review

Five Reasons to Read This Book

1. They Both Die at the End is a story that will inspire its readers to live life to the fullest.

2. I adored Rufus and Mateo, and you will too. Both guys are different, and yet perfect for each other.

3. It's a well-written story.

4. The last few pages of this book will have you on the edge of your seat. It will also make you cry. 

5. Although this book focuses on such a serious topic, humor and happiness can be found inside its pages as well.

Short & Sweet MG Review: Wishtree by Katherine Applegate

Wishtree by Katherine Applegate ( Sept. 26, 2017)
Length: 224 pages
Genre: Middle Grade Fiction
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Source: The library.
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
My Rating:

Goodreads Summary: Trees can't tell jokes, but they can certainly tell stories. . . . Red is an oak tree who is many rings old. Red is the neighborhood "wishtree"—people write their wishes on pieces of cloth and tie them to Red's branches. Along with her crow friend Bongo and other animals who seek refuge in Red's hollows, this "wishtree" watches over the neighborhood. You might say Red has seen it all. Until a new family moves in. Not everyone is welcoming, and Red's experiences as a wishtree are more important than ever.

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My Review

Wishtree in Three Words: Uplifting. Magical. Unique.

Wishtree is a wonderful story for readers of all ages. Applegate is a magnificant story teller. Told from the point of view of an old oak tree in lyrical prose makes for a beautiful story. Readers will get to meet the many animals that live in the tree, the grumpy lady whose land the tree resides on, and a sweet boy and a shy girl who are destined to become friends. This book explores the important issues of not judging people, to be accepting of everyone, and to be kind. This book couldn't have been published in a more timely fashion considering our current political climate.

The Bottom Line: It doesn't matter whether you buy your own copy or borrow one from the library, all that matters is that you give this book a read.

Mini Review: Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys

Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys
Length: 393 pages
Genre: Young Adult Historical Fiction
Publisher: Philomel Books
Source: I met the author and received a free copy last year at BEA.
My Rating:

Goodreads Summary: Winter, 1945. Four teenagers. Four secrets. Each one born of a different homeland; each one hunted, and haunted, by tragedy, lies…and war. As thousands of desperate refugees flock to the coast in the midst of a Soviet advance, four paths converge, vying for passage aboard the Wilhelm Gustloff, a ship that promises safety and freedom. Yet not all promises can be kept. Inspired by the single greatest tragedy in maritime history, bestselling and award-winning author Ruta Sepetys (Between Shades of Gray) lifts the veil on a shockingly little-known casualty of World War II. An illuminating and life-affirming tale of heart and hope.

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My Review

Salt to the Sea in Three Words: Heartbreaking. Memorable. Brave.

Salt to the Sea is a novel I won't soon forget. Compassion, survival, the horrors of war, and memorable characters, makes for one captivating read.

I read Salt to the Sea in one day. It has short chapters making it a page turner. This book is based off a devastating true story in history that many may not know.

The Verdict: This book is sure to stand the test of time, and would be a great read for teens and adults alike looking for their next historical fiction.

ARC Review: By Your Side by Kasie West

By Your Side by Kasie West (Jan. 31, 2017)
Length: 352 pages
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: HarperTeen
Source: I received an eARC from the publisher. This did not affect my honest review. Thanks so much!
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
My Rating:

Goodreads Summary: When Autumn Collins finds herself accidentally locked in the library for an entire weekend, she doesn’t think things could get any worse. But that’s before she realizes that Dax Miller is locked in with her. Autumn doesn’t know much about Dax except that he’s trouble. Between the rumors about the fight he was in (and that brief stint in juvie that followed it) and his reputation as a loner, he’s not exactly the ideal person to be stuck with. Still, she just keeps reminding herself that it is only a matter of time before Jeff, her almost-boyfriend, realizes he left her in the library and comes to rescue her.

Only he doesn’t come. No one does.

Instead it becomes clear that Autumn is going to have to spend the next couple of days living off vending-machine food and making conversation with a boy who clearly wants nothing to do with her. Except there is more to Dax than meets the eye. As he and Autumn first grudgingly, and then not so grudgingly, open up to each other, Autumn is struck by their surprising connection. But can their feelings for each other survive once the weekend is over and Autumn’s old life, and old love interest, threaten to pull her from Dax’s side?

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My Review

Review in Three Words: Happy. Feelings. Sweet.

By Your Side made me smile and chuckle and swoon. This book proves that Kasie West is the master at writing young adult contemporary romance novels. I have read every single one of her books and this one may just be my new favorite.

The setting of By Your Side will be a favorite among many readers. Who hasn't wondereed what it would be like to be trapped in a library over night? I was worried that two teens getting locked in the library would be too far-fetched, (I do work in two libraries and we have a pretty good closing procedure and an alarm system, yet just a few weeks ago our alarm system wasn't running for several days...) but I think it was believable and it worked. Autumn is a relatble and likable character who also happens to be stuck in a library with pretty bad anxiety. Although she may not think so at first, Dex, the secretive boy from school, is there to help her make it through the weekend at the library. I found Dax intriguing right from the start. I wanted to know his secrets and be his friend.

Readers will get lost in the way Dex and Autumn's story is told. Their time in the library together is entertaining and at times sweet. I loved the writing. At times I could easily feel the chill of the library and the silence in the stacks. When the plot gets more serious the tone transitions nicely and still manages to stay sweet. This is a book worth reading.

The Verdict: Sooooo good!

Review: Three Dark Crowns by Kendare Blake

Three Dark Crowns (#1) by Kendare Blake (Sept. 2016)
398 pages
Genre: YA Fantasy
Publisher: HarperTeen
Source: The library.
Purchase: Barnes & Noble | Amazon | The Book Depository
My Rating:

Goodreads Summary: When kingdom come, there will be one.

In every generation on the island of Fennbirn, a set of triplets is born—three queens, all equal heirs to the crown and each possessor of a coveted magic. Mirabella is a fierce elemental, able to spark hungry flames or vicious storms at the snap of her fingers. Katharine is a poisoner, one who can ingest the deadliest poisons without so much as a stomachache. Arsinoe, a naturalist, is said to have the ability to bloom the reddest rose and control the fiercest of lions.

But becoming the Queen Crowned isn’t solely a matter of royal birth. Each sister has to fight for it. And it’s not just a game of win or lose…it’s life or death. The night the sisters turn sixteen, the battle begins.

The last queen standing gets the crown.

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My Review

Describe Three Dark Crowns in three words: Wicked. Smart. Shocking.

Before I even finished reading Three Dark Crowns I was recommending the book to anyone I came across. My coworkers may have even started to get annoyed that this was the only book I was talking about. Three Dark Crowns is dark and lovely and captivating. It's a strong start to what I am sure is going to be a great fantasy series. I know it left me wanting more.

Meeting all three sisters and trying to pick a favorite was a challenge. Each young lady is complex and I cheered for all three. I did find Katharine, the poisoner, to be most intriguing. If I had to pick a favorite it would be her. Arsinoe, the naturalist, is sweet and frustrated with her powers not blossoming. Mirabella, the elemental, has a power like no other and is amazingly strong. All three girls want to be queen, but only one can. Even though these ladies were raised apart, killing ones sister isn't going to be an easy task, even though that task is how it has always been. These characters are sure to get you invested in this novel.

The setting is pleasantly detailed and each sister's dwelling is remarkably different. Each sister was raised in a different town with different parental figures and different types of environments. As for the plot, it was nicely paced although some say it was a little slow going, but I have to disagree with that one. I was entertained from start to finish. It may have read like a first book (an introduction) in a series, but that didn't bother me any. The ending was explosive! I am still reeling over it. Now I just need the second book to come out already. I think it is going to be better than the first.

The Verdict: Read it. Better late than never. ;)

ARC Review: Gemina by Kaufman & Kristoff

Gemina (#2) by Amie Kaufman & Jay Kristoff (Oct. 18, 2016)
659 pages
Genre: Young Adult Science Fiction
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers
Source: I received an ARC at BEA. A big huge thanks to the publisher!
Purchase: Barnes & Noble | Amazon | The Book Depository
My Rating:

Goodreads Summary: Moving to a space station at the edge of the galaxy was always going to be the death of Hanna’s social life. Nobody said it might actually get her killed.

The sci-fi saga that began with the breakout bestseller Illuminae continues on board the Jump Station Heimdall, where two new characters will confront the next wave of the BeiTech assault.

Hanna is the station captain’s pampered daughter; Nik the reluctant member of a notorious crime family. But while the pair are struggling with the realities of life aboard the galaxy’s most boring space station, little do they know that Kady Grant and the Hypatia are headed right toward Heimdall, carrying news of the Kerenza invasion.

When an elite BeiTech strike team invades the station, Hanna and Nik are thrown together to defend their home. But alien predators are picking off the station residents one by one, and a malfunction in the station’s wormhole means the space-time continuum might be ripped in two before dinner. Soon Hanna and Nik aren’t just fighting for their own survival; the fate of everyone on the Hypatia—and possibly the known universe—is in their hands.

But relax. They’ve totally got this. They hope.

Once again told through a compelling dossier of emails, IMs, classified files, transcripts, and schematics, Gemina raises the stakes of the Illuminae Files, hurling readers into an enthralling new story that will leave them breathless.

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My Review

OH. MY. GOD. Gemina was just as good as Illuminea. It was just as epic. It was just as amazing. 

I honestly don't know how to review this book without revealing too much. I will say that the unique formatting worked so well again and was a lot of fun to read. The new characters are just as interesting and charming as the ones from the first book. There is a lot of action, some horror, a little bit of romance, and some great surprises! I felt like the basic plot of the book was a little too similar to the first book, but that is my only complaint. So here is a look at my reading progress from goodreads. 

The Verdict: This book gave me all the feels. Go forth and read it! You don't have to wait long anymore. Gemina hits shelves tomorrow!

Review: The Unexpected Everything by Morgan Matson

The Unexpected Everything by Morgan Matson (May 2016)
517 pages
Genre: Young Adult Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Source: I bought it at BookCon and met the author!
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository
My Rating:

Goodreads Summary: Andie had it all planned out.

When you are a politician’s daughter who’s pretty much raised yourself, you learn everything can be planned or spun, or both. Especially your future.

Important internship? Check.

Amazing friends? Check.

Guys? Check (as long as we’re talking no more than three weeks).

But that was before the scandal. Before having to be in the same house with her dad. Before walking an insane number of dogs. That was before Clark and those few months that might change her whole life.

Because here’s the thing—if everything’s planned out, you can never find the unexpected.

And where’s the fun in that?

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My Review

I was looking for a perfect summer read and The Unexpected Everything delivered. Just look at that cover! It screams summer.

This book is for dog lovers, summer romance supporters, best friends, and anyone who appreciates a cute nerdy boy. The Unexpected Everything features all of these things and even more wonderfully perfect summer themes.

Andie has her summer all planned out. She has a prestigious summer internship all lined up and everything all planned out. Then her father becomes involved in a political scandal and all of her summer plans fall through. She is now scrambling to find a summer job, and her options are slim. Then she does something unexpected, and she has the summer of a lifetime. It was a whole lot of fun reading about her summer activities. Andie takes a job she never thought she would. She is forced to spend time with her once distant father. She falls for a nerdy (who I am sure will be your next book boyfriend) and wonderfully sweet guy. She goes on an unforgettable scavenger hunt, and other interesting adventures. There is a lot of cuteness, some laughs, drama, and learning what it means to live in the moment.

I loved The Unexpected Everything and highly recommend it to anyone looking for the perfect summer read. This one will give you the feels guaranteed, and probably a new book boyfriend to boot.

A Straight to the Point Review: The Winner's Kiss by Marie Rutkoski

The Winner's Kiss by Marie Rutkoski (March 2016)
484 pages
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux
Source: The library.
Purchase: Barnes & Noble | Amazon | The Book Depository
My Rating:

Goodreads Summary: Some kisses come at a price.

War has begun. Arin is in the thick of it with untrustworthy new allies and the empire as his enemy. Though he has convinced himself that he no longer loves Kestrel, Arin hasn’t forgotten her, or how she became exactly the kind of person he has always despised. She cared more for the empire than she did for the lives of innocent people—and certainly more than she did for him.

At least, that’s what he thinks.

In the frozen north, Kestrel is a prisoner in a brutal work camp. As she searches desperately for a way to escape, she wishes Arin could know what she sacrificed for him. She wishes she could make the empire pay for what they’ve done to her.

But no one gets what they want just by wishing.

As the war intensifies, both Kestrel and Arin discover that the world is changing. The East is pitted against the West, and they are caught in between. With so much to lose, can anybody really win?

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My Review

I really didn't know what to expect before reading the final installment of the Winner's Curse trilogy. I didn't even read the jacket before I began, I just jumped right in. The final book was AMAZING!

Was there romance? Hell yes!

Was there a good amount of action? Yes. In many different forms.

Are the characters as awesome as you remember them being? Definitely yes.

Should you just go ahead and read this book? Obviously.

This series ended beautifully. I really couldn't have asked for a better third book. Fans of the first two books are going to love it. Those that aren't fans yet are going to be. Now that all three books are out, it is the perfect time to give this series a try because you won't have that dreadful wait in between books.

A Straight to the Point Review: Rebel of the Sands by Alwyn Hamilton

Rebel of the Sands (#1) by Alwyn Hamilton (March 2016)
314 pages
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Publisher: Viking Books for Young Readers
Source: I borrowed a copy from the library, but now I plan to buy it for myself.
Purchase: Barnes & Noble | Amazon | The Book Depository
My Rating:

Goodreads Summary: Mortals rule the desert nation of Miraji, but mythical beasts still roam the wild and remote areas, and rumor has it that somewhere, djinn still perform their magic. For humans, it’s an unforgiving place, especially if you’re poor, orphaned, or female.

Amani Al’Hiza is all three. She’s a gifted gunslinger with perfect aim, but she can’t shoot her way out of Dustwalk, the back-country town where she’s destined to wind up wed or dead.

Then she meets Jin, a rakish foreigner, in a shooting contest, and sees him as the perfect escape route. But though she’s spent years dreaming of leaving Dustwalk, she never imagined she’d gallop away on mythical horse—or that it would take a foreign fugitive to show her the heart of the desert she thought she knew.

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My Review

Rebel of the Sands is a MUST READ for every single person ever. Here is why...

This book is so full of action that I guarantee you will not be bored for a single second.

As for the characters, you won't be able to help but love them. 

So what about the romance? It's so freaking steamy and real. I ship Jin and Amani so hard!

The world building is done so extremely well that you will be able to feel the sand grit in your eyes.

The best thing of all, this may be the first book in a series, but there is not a huge cliffhanger. 

What more could you want in a book? Seriously. Go read this book right this very second. You won't regret it. This is going to be one of my most favorite books of 2016. I have already started pushing it on everyone I know.

Review: Winter by Marissa Meyer

Winter (The Lunar Chronicles #4) by Marissa Meyer
827 pages
Genre: Young Adult/Fantasy/Fairy Tale Retelling
Publisher: Feiwel and Friends
Source: The library
Purchase: Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository | Amazon
My Rating:

Goodreads Summary: Princess Winter is admired by the Lunar people for her grace and kindness, and despite the scars that mar her face, her beauty is said to be even more breathtaking than that of her stepmother, Queen Levana.

Winter despises her stepmother, and knows Levana won’t approve of her feelings for her childhood friend—the handsome palace guard, Jacin. But Winter isn’t as weak as Levana believes her to be and she’s been undermining her stepmother’s wishes for years. Together with the cyborg mechanic, Cinder, and her allies, Winter might even have the power to launch a revolution and win a war that’s been raging for far too long.

Can Cinder, Scarlet, Cress, and Winter defeat Levana and find their happily ever afters?

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My Review

Winter is here. It is finally here! I put this baby on hold at the library months in advance so I would be sure to get the book first. I got it. I read it. I freaking loved it.

I have no idea if this review will be easy to understand or if it will be anything other than me gushing about this series, but I had to write one. I had to fangirl for Cress and Thorne with all the other shippers out there. 

Winter is a long book so it took me almost a week to read. At 827 pages, I am beyond happy to report that there was never a dull moment. Winter is a stunning conclusion to the wonder Lunar Chronicles series. I already want to re-read this series and I plan to as soon as I get these beauties for Christmas. ;)

There are a lot of lovable characters that adorn the pages of Winter. I can't even being to pick a favorite. I loved them all and I loved all the point of views. Even though I usually am not a fan of an abundance of point of views, I adored every single one, and together the main characters make one hell of a team. Winter is kind. Thorne is charming. Jacin is loyal. Cinder is dedicated. Cress is brave. Kai is smart. Iko is unique. Scarlet is fierce. Wolf is strong. As for Levana... she is insane.  As for the ships... I LOVE ALL THE SHIPS!!!!!  I am sure you will be enthralled by these character's story just as I was.

If you have enjoyed the previous books in this series I am sure you will enjoy this one as well. A lot happened in this book. There are ups and downs and lots of close calls. There are even some spectacular fairy tale moments. I can't wait to see what you all think of this one! I am very sad the series is over, but I plan to relive it again and again.

A Short & Sweet Review: Queen of Shadows by Sarah J. Maas

Queen of Shadows (#4) by Sarah J. Maas (Sept. 2015)
648 pages
Genre: Young Adult/Fantasy
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Childrens
Source: The library.
Purchase: Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository | Amazon
My Rating:

Goodreads Summary: The queen has returned.

Everyone Celaena Sardothien loves has been taken from her. But she’s at last returned to the empire—for vengeance, to rescue her once-glorious kingdom, and to confront the shadows of her past…

She has embraced her identity as Aelin Galathynius, Queen of Terrasen. But before she can reclaim her throne, she must fight.

She will fight for her cousin, a warrior prepared to die for her. She will fight for her friend, a young man trapped in an unspeakable prison. And she will fight for her people, enslaved to a brutal king and awaiting their lost queen’s triumphant return.

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My Review

Fans of the Throne of Glass series won't want to miss the heart bursting fourth installment, Queen of Shadows. The stakes just keep on getting higher.

What I Loved: Celaena. Even when she frustrates me I love her. She is amazing.

What I Freaking Loved: Every other freaking character, but mostly Manon and Lysandra, bad-assery at its finest.

What I Was Beyond Thrilled About: The plot. Seriously. The action. The fighting scenes. This book was nerve wrecking.

What Disappointed Me: How Maas handled Chaol and Celaena's reunion. Sigh.

What Drove Me Crazy: That ending. Thank goodness we have two more books to go!

Review: The Perilous Sea by Sherry Thomas

The Perilous Sea (#2) by Sherry Thomas (Sept. 2014)
414 pages
Genre: Young Adult/Fantasy
Publisher: Balzer & Bray
Source: I bought this one!
Purchase: Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository | Amazon
My Rating:

Goodreads Summary: After spending the summer away from each other, Titus and Iolanthe (still disguised as Archer Fairfax) are eager to return to Eton College to resume their training to fight the Bane. Although no longer bound to Titus by a blood oath, Iolanthe is more committed than ever to fulfilling her destiny—especially with the agents of Atlantis quickly closing in.

Soon after arriving at school, though, Titus makes a shocking discovery, one that makes him question everything he previously believed about their mission. Faced with this devastating realization, Iolanthe is forced to come to terms with her new role, while Titus must choose between following his mother's prophecies—and forging a divergent path to an unknowable future.

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My Review

This book was so freaking good! I love this series. LOVE. I am so thankful that my bloggie bestie got me to read this one. I don't know what I would do without this amazing series in my life. The Perilous Sea was just as good as the first book. Obviously now is the time when I tell you that if you haven't read this series yet then you should, because it is great.

I fangirl over Iolante and Titus hardcore. I will go down with that ship. That is how much I love those two together. There was a million different times that I swooned over this couple. I may have a big huge crush on Titus. He is adorable. I melt for these two.

The Perilous Sea is an intense read. There are many surprises. I don't even want to talk about the plot much simply because I want you to enjoy it all on your own. It was full of crazy moments and had me on the edge of my seat. Just like the first book, it is also full of amazingly fun magic. There are so many questions and I wanted all the answers.

I liked this book so much that before I even finished it I already wanted to re-read it. I'm not kidding. It's too bad I have to wait for the last book. Luckily I only have to wait like four more months. I want to read it NOW.

A Quick Review: Inherit Midnight by Kate Kae Myers

Inherit Midnight by Kate Kae Myers (Feb. 2015)
390 pages
Genre: Young Adult
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Source: The Library.
Purchase: Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository | Amazon
My Rating:

Goodreads Summary: The Competition: Outlandishly wealthy Grandmother VanDemere has decided to leave her vast fortune to the family member who proves him or herself worthiest-by solving puzzles and riddles on a whirlwind race around the globe, from the mines of Venezuela to the castles of Scotland. There will be eight competitors, three continents . . . and a prize worth millions.

The Players:

Seventeen-year-old Avery is the black sheep of the VanDemere clan, the ostracized illegitimate daughter. Finally, she has a chance to prove herself . . . and to discover the truth about her long-lost mother.

Marshall might be Avery's uncle, but there's no love lost between the two of them. He's her main competition, and he'll do anything to win-including betray his own children.

Riley is the handsome son of Grandmother VanDemere's lawyer. As the game progresses, Avery falls hard for Riley. Suddenly, losing the game might mean losing him, too.

As the competition takes treacherous turns, it becomes clear there can only be one victor. Who can Avery truly trust? And is winning worth her life?

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My Review

Why isn't everybody reading this?! Why?! This book is perfect for those of you that like The Amazing Race and the National Treasure movies. Even if you don't like those things you really should read this book! It is fantastic. Here is why...

Reasons Why You Should Read Inherit Midnight

• There is an abundance of family secrets and drama. Don't you just love secrets? I do.
• It is full of action from beginning to end.
• It's fast paced, and sometimes you just need a quick read.
• There is too much fun in this book and it's exciting!
• This is a book you will want to read in one sitting.
• It is unique, cute, and always interesting.
• It has a wealth of interesting characters.
• Avery and Riley make a great team!
• Who wouldn't want to read a book about a crazy competition between family members to see who inherits the family wealth?
• Basically it's a really really good book.

I don't think you need anymore reasons as to why you should read Inherit Midnight. I'm sure I have convinced you by now. Go read Inherit Midnight. Give it a whirl!

ARC Review: Royal Wedding by Meg Cabot

Royal Wedding (Princess Diaries #11) by Meg Cabot (June 2, 2015)
448 pages
Genre: Adult/Romance
Publisher: William Morrow & Company
Source: I received a free ARC from Meg Cabot herself (and the publisher) at ALA Midwinter. This did not affect my honest review. Thanks Meg Cabot and William Morrow & Company!
Purchase: Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository | Amazon
My Rating:

Goodreads Summary: From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Princess Diaries series, comes the very first adult installment, which follows Princess Mia and her Prince Charming as they plan their fairy tale wedding--but a few poisoned apples could turn this happily-ever-after into a royal nightmare.

For Princess Mia, the past five years since college graduation have been a whirlwind of activity, what with living in New York City, running her new teen community center, being madly in love, and attending royal engagements. And speaking of engagements. Mia's gorgeous longtime boyfriend Michael managed to clear both their schedules just long enough for an exotic (and very private) Caribbean island interlude where he popped the question! Of course Mia didn't need to consult her diary to know that her answer was a royal oui.

But now Mia has a scandal of majestic proportions to contend with: Her grandmother's leaked "fake" wedding plans to the press that could cause even normally calm Michael to become a runaway groom. Worse, a scheming politico is trying to force Mia's father from the throne, all because of a royal secret that could leave Genovia without a monarch. Can Mia prove to everyone--especially herself--that she's not only ready to wed, but ready to rule as well?

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My Review

When I found out that there was going to be another Princess Diaries book I looked a little something like this.

So was the wait worth it? Was it everything I thought it was going to be? Did Princess Mia still make me laugh and smile? 

It was everything I wanted and more! We jump right back into Mia's life and she is now an adult, just like her readers! I loved this. I never realized how much I had missed Mia and Michael and everyone until I started reading Royal Wedding. This book is a treat for all the Princess Diaries fans out there. I honestly probably don't even need to convince you to read this because you already plan on it. I'm guessing as soon as this baby comes out that this will be you. (It was how I looked when I was reading.)

I enjoyed every single second of my time reading Royal Wedding. I can't find a single thing that I didn't like about it. I welcomed back my beloved characters with open arms and they fell right in.

Royal Wedding was full of cuteness, realness, sweet moments, funny moments, and a whole lot of surprises.

You won't regret reading this. It was perfect. I have been a fan of the Princess Diaries series from the beginning and I couldn't be happier with this new addition. 

Now go get a copy and enjoy! (If you are not yet a Princess Diaries fan then you should become one!)

ARC Review: The Wrath & The Dawn by Renee Ahdieh

The Wrath & The Dawn (#1) by Renee Ahdieh (May 12, 2015)
416 pages
Genre: Young Adult/Retelling
Publisher: Putnam Juvenile
Source: I snagged a free ARC at ALA Midwinter. This didn't affect my honest review. Thanks Putnam!
Purchase: Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository | Amazon
My Rating:

Goodreads Summary: A sumptuous and epically told love story inspired by A Thousand and One Nights

Every dawn brings horror to a different family in a land ruled by a killer. Khalid, the eighteen-year-old Caliph of Khorasan, takes a new bride each night only to have her executed at sunrise. So it is a suspicious surprise when sixteen-year-old Shahrzad volunteers to marry Khalid. But she does so with a clever plan to stay alive and exact revenge on the Caliph for the murder of her best friend and countless other girls. Shazi's wit and will, indeed, get her through to the dawn that no others have seen, but with a catch . . . she’s falling in love with the very boy who killed her dearest friend.

She discovers that the murderous boy-king is not all that he seems and neither are the deaths of so many girls. Shazi is determined to uncover the reason for the murders and to break the cycle once and for all.

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My Review

While reading The Wrath & The Dawn my feels kept growing and growing until they exploded and the book became a five star read for me. I LOVED IT. In this case I support all of the hype surrounding this book. It was that good.

The Wrath & The Dawn is unique and complex. I'm so glad it made its way into my life. Hopefully I can convince you to welcome it into your life as well. Another plus, it is a diverse book, and we all know we need more of those in our lives!

This book has an amazingly rich setting. The world building is nothing short of incredible. The descriptions the writer used to illustrate the food, clothes, and everything in-between dragged me deeper and deeper into its beautiful open arms. I wish I could visit this place and try some of its wine. I could almost taste it through the pages, but not quite. I basically just freaking loved all the details. I could feel the dark lurking behind all of the beauty. 

Secrets are abound and death is never far away for Shazi, Khalid, and pretty much all the characters. I loved these characters. Some of them had their childish moments, but who doesn't? I am grateful for the chance to witness Shazi and Khalid's relationship grow. It was very intense and interesting. There was always a tricky situation one of them had to overcome. I enjoyed reading about their lives and their vastly different circumstances life has dealt them.

The Wrath & The Dawn is a must read! It was never boring thanks to the flourish of activity always coming in steady waves. I am left wanting more. Now I NEED the second book. This is definitely going to make my favorite reads of 2015 list.

ARC Review: Things We Know by Heart by Jessi Kirby

Things We Know by Heart by Jessi Kirby (April 21, 2015)
304 pages
Genre: Young Adult/Contemporary
Publisher: HarperTeen
Source: I received a free arc at ALA Midwinter! Thanks Harper! This didn't affect my honest review.
Purchase: Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository | Amazon
My Rating:

Goodreads Summary: When Quinn Sullivan meets the recipient of her boyfriend’s donated heart, the two form an unexpected connection.

After Quinn loses her boyfriend, Trent, in an accident their junior year, she reaches out to the recipients of his donated organs in hopes of picking up the pieces of her now-unrecognizable life. She hears back from some of them, but the person who received Trent’s heart has remained silent. The essence of a person, she has always believed, is in the heart. If she finds Trent’s, then maybe she can have peace once and for all.

Risking everything in order to finally lay her memories to rest, Quinn goes outside the system to track down nineteen-year-old Colton Thomas—a guy whose life has been forever changed by this priceless gift. But what starts as an accidental run-in quickly develops into more, sparking an undeniable attraction. She doesn't want to give in to it—especially since he has no idea how they're connected—but their time together has made Quinn feel alive again. No matter how hard she’s falling for Colton, each beat of his heart reminds her of all she’s lost…and all that remains at stake.

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My Review

I knew before I even read this book that it was going to be memorable. I knew it was going to pull on my heart strings. I knew it would make a lasting impression on me. I just knew. So I took a deep breath, picked up Things We Know by Heart,  and braced myself for what I knew was going to be an emotional read. I actually became so engrossed while reading this book that I fell off the couch at one point! Talk about not paying attention to your surroundings while reading.

Quinn is a teenager who is traumatized by the death of her boyfriend. No young person should have to go through what Quinn did, but sadly it does happen. The writing was so poetic and beautiful, so much that I could feel Quinn's pain through the words on the page. I have dealt with the pain of having two friends pass away when they were younger so I felt a special bond with Quinn. I found Colton to be a true fighter. These two come together and try to appreciate life and not take it for granted. Reading about these two characters come together with their struggles and seeing how they need each other (they make each other better) pulled on my heart strings. I loved these characters. 

In my opinion, I think there are two very important things to take away from this book. First, be an organ donor if you can. I am already an organ donor and I think everyone should be. I know for some it is against their religion and I respect that. Personally, I think being an organ donor is very important and should be done. It could save a life, maybe several. (I don't think of anyone less who isn't one. I am simply giving my opinion on the matter.) The second significant thing I took away from this book, life is short. It really is. I am going to try and start thinking of that before I do something that I don't really want to do. I want to fit in as many crazy wonderful adventures that I can.

Things We Know by Heart is unique, memorable, and it gave me all the feels. I sped through it and cherished it. It was everything I thought it would be. I won't be forgetting this story any time soon. It may have been a tiny bit slow for some people's tastes in the middle of the book, but besides that I don't think I have a single bad thing to say about Things We Know by Heart. I simply think you should read it.

A Straight to the Point Review: Mosquitoland by David Arnold

Mosquitoland by David Arnold (March 3, 2015)
352 pages
Genre: Young Adult Contemporary
Publisher: Viking Books for Young Readers
Source:I snagged a free ARC copy at ALA Midwinter 2015. This didn't affect my honest review.
Purchase: Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository | Amazon
My Rating:

Goodreads Synopsis: "I am a collection of oddities, a circus of neurons and electrons: my heart is the ringmaster, my soul is the trapeze artist, and the world is my audience. It sounds strange because it is, and it is, because I am strange."

After the sudden collapse of her family, Mim Malone is dragged from her home in northern Ohio to the "wastelands" of Mississippi, where she lives in a medicated milieu with her dad and new stepmom. Before the dust has a chance to settle, she learns her mother is sick back in Cleveland.

So she ditches her new life and hops aboard a northbound Greyhound bus to her real home and her real mother, meeting a quirky cast of fellow travelers along the way. But when her thousand-mile journey takes a few turns she could never see coming, Mim must confront her own demons, redefining her notions of love, loyalty, and what it means to be sane.

Told in an unforgettable, kaleidoscopic voice, "Mosquitoland" is a modern American odyssey, as hilarious as it is heartbreaking.

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MY REVIEW

Mosquitoland is like nothing I've read before. You simply must read it.

Here is why...

Mim is one of the most unique and memorable characters I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. I love her. She along with the people she meets on her journey are each in their own way rich, lively, real, strong, and memorable.

The writing in Mosquitoland is one of a kind. It. Is. Beautiful.

Mim goes on one hell of a journey that you need to witness. It's full of surprises, good and bad.

Mosquitoland is more than just a book. Read it and you will see what I am talking about. I can't even put it into words.

The Bottom Line: Mosquitoland is perfection. It is a MUST read.

Review: The Burning Sky by Sherry Thomas

The Burning Sky (#1) by Sherry Thomas (2013)

464 pages

Genre: Young Adult/Fantasy

Publisher: Balzer + Bray

Source: My blogger bestie got me this one for Christmas!!

Purchase:Barnes and Noble|The Book Depository|Amazon

Goodreads Summary: It all began with a ruined elixir and a bolt of lightning.

Iolanthe Seabourne is the greatest elemental mage of her generation—or so she's been told. The one prophesied for years to be the savior of The Realm. It is her duty and destiny to face and defeat the Bane, the most powerful tyrant and mage the world has ever known. This would be a suicide task for anyone, let alone a reluctant sixteen-year-old girl with no training.

Guided by his mother's visions and committed to avenging his family, Prince Titus has sworn to protect Iolanthe even as he prepares her for their battle with the Bane. But he makes the terrifying mistake of falling in love with the girl who should have been only a means to an end. Now, with the servants of the tyrant closing in, Titus must choose between his mission—and her life.

The Burning Sky—the first book in the Elemental Trilogy—is an electrifying and unforgettable novel of intrigue and adventure.

MY REVIEW

The Burning Sky BLEW ME AWAY. It started off strong and ended strong. I am going to have to say that if you are a fan of books with magic in it and you haven't read this, then you really really should do that as soon as possible. I am now going to fangirl all over this book. Sorry, not sorry, but this book is so freaking awesome.

My favorite thing about this whole novel is the MAGIC. From the elemental magic to the every day spells, this novel is full of wonderful magic that just makes me wish harder than ever that I was magical. I wanted to live in this world oh so badly while reading it. I don't even want to tell you about all the awesome magical things you are going to discover when you read this because I know you will be reading this (if you haven't already), and therefore I don't want to take away from your reading experience. Aka: Read this book.

My second favorite aspect of the novel would have to be the characters. They are hands down some of the best characters I have ever encountered. Titus and Iolanthe are wise in their own ways and admit when they don't know something. I think they make a fabulous pair. It is almost comical how formal/proper they both are with each other at first, but that does change a little throughout the story at a natural pace, especially considering all they go through together. They are just so complex and you can't help but care for them. I felt EVERYTHING when it came to these characters.

My third favorite thing about The Burning Sky would have to be that there are no info dumps. Instead the author incorporates end notes into the book. I loved them. So every time the author wanted to elaborate on a spell, or a little piece of history, etc. she would use an end note. Brilliant. Unique. I loved it.

Did I dislike anything about The Burning Sky? I honestly don't think that I did. Not a single thing comes to mind. I am sure it wasn't perfect, no book is, but for whatever reason I simply just enjoyed this book to the max. I was never bored and completely immersed in the world.

Well, I feel like I have gushed enough over this book for now. I think it is time for me to start wrapping up this love fest of a review. Just in case you are still wondering (although I'm sure you are not), I would have to say, with 100%certainty, that I recommend The Burning Sky to everyone. Before I even finished this book I ordered the second one from the store. No joke. I NEED MORE. I can't wait to read it.

Review: Torn Away by Jennifer Brown

Torn Away by Jennifer Brown (May 2014)

288 pages
Genre: Young Adult
Publisher: Little Brown, Books for Young Readers
Source: I won a copy of the book a long while ago from She’s Got Books on Her Mind as part of a blog tour. A big thanks to She's Got Books on Her Mind and the publisher!

Purchase: Barnes and Noble | The Book Depository | Amazon

Goodreads Summary: Jersey Cameron has always loved a good storm. Watching the clouds roll in and the wind pick up. Smelling the electricity in the air. Dancing barefoot in the rain. She lives in the Midwest, after all, where the weather is sure to keep you guessing. Jersey knows what to do when the tornado sirens sound. But she never could have prepared for this.

When her town is devastated by a tornado, Jersey loses everything. As she struggles to overcome her grief, she's sent to live with relatives she hardly knows-family who might as well be strangers. In an unfamiliar place, can Jersey discover that even on the darkest of days, there are some things no tornado can destroy?

In this powerful and poignant novel, acclaimed author Jennifer Brown delivers a story of love, loss, hope, and survival.

MY REVIEW

I loved it. I cried. I laughed. I felt the pain. I felt the love. I felt the desperation. I felt the hope.

Torn Away blew me away. Talk about a survival story that will do more than pull on your heartstrings. I don’t know if it is because I live in the Midwest or what, but this book just spoke to me.

I knew from the moment I read the first page that Torn Away was going to be emotional and that reading it was going to hurt. Torn Away gives us an up close experience of what it feels like to live through a tornado and the after affects of its wrath. From the sirens going off to the minute after it passes, to a week later, this novel touches on all of that.

Jersey survives a deadly tornado that hits her small town in Missouri, but her fight to survive during the tornado was only the beginning. In Torn Away we see what happens to a teenager when one tornado changes her life for good. The author got me to care so much about Jersey that my heart bled for her while reading. I wanted her to have a happy ending, heck, I just wanted her to find people that loved her and treated her right. Whenever her luck would get worse, I would pray that sooner rather than later her luck would finally change for the better. I got PISSED at the a**holes in this book. When you read this book you will get to meet these horrible people for yourself. Jersey grabbed my heart and never let go and I’m glad she didn’t.

The most important thing I took away from this book, what exactly it means to lose “everything.”

Torn Away is a beautifully written novel about a young girl just trying to figure out how to survive in a world where she loses the most important people to her. Read Torn Away if you haven’t yet, especially if you are already a fan of this author. I read this book in one day and I will read it again, once my heart as time to heal.