Guardian of the Dead

Title: Guardian of the Dead
Author: Karen Healey
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
Pages: 333

Source of Book: My local public library

Summary: (courtesy of http://www.karenhealey.com/books/guardian-of-the-dead/)

In less than a day I had been harassed, enchanted, shouted at, cried on, and clawed. I’d been cold, scared, dirty, exhausted, hungry, and miserable. And up until now, I’d been mildly impressed with my ability to cope.
At her boarding school in New Zealand, Ellie Spencer is like any ordinary teen: she hangs out with her best friend, Kevin; obsesses over her crush on a mysterious boy; and her biggest worry is her paper deadline. Then everything changes: In the foggy woods near the school, something ancient and deadly is waiting.
Debut author Karen Healey introduces a savvy and spirited heroine with a strong, fresh voice. Full of deliciously creepy details, this unique, incredible adventure is a deftly crafted story of Māori mythology, romance, betrayal, and war.




My Rating: 6.5 out of a possible 10

Explanation: Well first, this book was not when I was expecting when I picked it up whatsoever. I wish I had gone into it being at least a bit familiar with New Zealand and the Maori culture. All I knew prior is where on a map New Zealand fell.

The plot itself drags a bit in the middle, and the beginning is very confusing while we wait for the "aha!" moment. However, the action and intensity at the end makes up for it. You don't realize how attached you actually become to the characters until the end.

I was hesistant to pick up this book because the inside of the book jacket said fairies, but this was nothing like the seelie and unseelie fairie courts of other books out. This didn't seem anything like the traditional fairies I've been reading about for months.

Ellie Spencer is likable and relatable, and I enjoyed her as a main character, I'm just not sure the book was right for me. I don't regret picking it up, though. :]

Unearthly

Title: Unearthly
Author: Cynthia Hand
Publisher: Harper Teen
Pages: 435
Source of Book: My local public library

Summary: (courtesy of http://www.cynthiahandbooks.com/books.php)

Clara Gardner has recently learned that she's part angel. Having angel blood run through her veins not only makes her smarter, stronger, and faster than humans (a word, she realizes, that no longer applies to her), but it means she has a purpose, something she was put on this earth to do. Figuring out what that is, though, isn't easy.
Her visions of a raging forest fire and an alluring stranger lead her to a new school in a new town. When she meets Christian, who turns out to be the boy of her dreams (literally), everything seems to fall into place—and out of place at the same time. Because there's another guy, Tucker, who appeals to Clara's less angelic side.
As Clara tries to find her way in a world she no longer understands, she encounters unseen dangers and choices she never thought she'd have to make—between honesty and deceit, love and duty, good and evil. When the fire from her vision finally ignites, will Clara be ready to face her destiny?

Unearthly is a moving tale of love and fate, and the struggle between following the rules and following your heart.

My Rating: 7 out of a possible 10

Explanation: This book was unlike any of the other angel related books on the market (at least any I have read, which isn't many). For starters, it's not about fallen angels. The main characters are not fallen angels, and the word nephilim only comes up twice in the whole novel. Also, there's less biblical references than some of the other angel novels.

Clara is a very cool character, and very realistic and relatable. She's just as confused about her life as any other girl, but with the added pressure of having a purpose. Her mother doesn't tell her a lot of information, so we find out things as soon as she does.

Clara finds herself in a fascinating love triangle, where the guys really don't hate each other or directly compete over her. I am personally deeply in love with Tucker, which is hard because I also see the appeal of Christian. There's no bad guy, it's all about taste.

The end definitely threw me for an unexpected loop and revealed a smidge of some of the secrets Clara's mother is hiding. I cannot believe that in this trilogy the books are coming out a year apart, I do not want to wait until January.

Shadowspell: A Faeriewalker Novel

Title: Shadowspell: A Faeriewalker Novel
Author: Jenna Black
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Pages: 295
Source of Book: My local public library
Summary: (courtesy of http://jennablack.com/books_ya.htm)

On top of spending most of her time in a bunkerlike safe house and having her dates hijacked by a formidable Fae bodyguard, Faeriewalker Dana Hathaway is in for some more bad news: the Erlking and his pack of murderous minions known as the Wild Hunt have descended upon Avalon. With his homicidal appetite and immortal powers, the Erlking has long been the nightmare of the Fae realm. A fragile treaty with the Faerie Queen, sealed with a mysterious spell, is the one thing that keeps him from hunting unchecked in Avalon, the only place on Earth where humans and Fae live together. Which means Dana’s in trouble, since it’s common knowledge that the Faerie Queen wants her – and her rare Faeriewalker powers – dead. The smoldering, sexy Erlking’s got his sights set on Dana, but does he only seek to kill her, or does he have something much darker in mind?

My Rating: 8 out of a possible 10

Explanation: I want to start by saying normally I shy away from books about faeries and fae, etc etc, but Glimmerglass was suggested by one of my favorite librarians, and I enjoyed it.

Shadowspell was better than Glimmerglass [the first novel in the series]. However, there are some adult parts and lots of reference to sex and lust and some 'heavy petting'. It's not a graphic sexual novel, but I wouldn't read it if I was under 16 definitely.

Warnings aside, the plot held my attention and made me love the characters even more, especially my boy Keane [who was my major crush in the first novel]. There's a lot of secrets introduced and revealed, and a fair amount of action.

Definitely read this if you've read the first one. Also, not a long wait for the third one! [sirensong, out July]

Awakened: A House of Night Novel

Title: Awakened: A House of Night Novel
Author: P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Pages: 290
Source of Book: My local public library


Summary: (courtesy of http://www.amazon.com/Awakened-House-Night-P-Cast/dp/142721073X)

“My love, speak to me. Tell me everything.” Neferet went to Kalona, kneeling before him, stroking the soft, dark wings that unfurled loosely around the immortal.
“What would you have me say?” He didn’t meet her eyes.
“Zoey lives.” Neferet’s voice was flat, cold, lifeless.
“She does.”
“Then you owe me the subservience of your immortal soul.” She started to walk away from him.

“Where are you going? What will happen next?”
“It is quite simple. I will ensure Zoey is drawn back to Oklahoma. There, on my own terms, I will complete the task you failed.”

Exonerated by the Vampyre High Council and returned to her position of High Priestess at Tulsa’s House of Night, Neferet has sworn vengeance on Zoey. Dominion over Kalona is only one of the weapons she plans to use against Z. But Zoey has found sanctuary on the Isle of Skye and is being groomed by Queen Sgiach to take over for her there. Being Queen would be cool, wouldn’t it? Why should she return to Tulsa? After losing her human consort, Heath, she will never be the same – and her relationship with her super-hot-warrior, Stark, may never be the same either…
And what about Stevie Rae and Rephaim? The Raven Mocker refuses to be used against Stevie Rae, but what choice does he have when no one in the entire world, including Zoey, would be okay with their relationship? Does he betray his father or his heart?
In the pulse-pounding 8th book in the bestselling House of Night series, how far will the bonds of friendship stretch and how strong are the ties that bind one girl’s heart?


My Rating: 9 out of a possible 10

Explanation: I really enjoy the house of night series, and in these newer books I tend to forget that the characters are even vampires. I consider that a testament to the original plot with all the complexities.
 
I literally adore these books and all of the characters [primarily James Stark, be still my heart!]
 
Also, I can never predict the twists and turns like I can in most YA books..
 
As far as this novel specifically, the plot, settings, and characters change rapidly, keeping the reader interested with no mid book lull. Also, the same characters and concepts are reinforced, as well as an introduction to new settings, twists, and a big ol' dose of good versus evil..
Read these books if you don't. If you do, go read this one asap! Definitely staying strong, and I want it to be November so the next one is out!

Hunger: A GONE Novel

Title: Hunger: A Gone Novel
Author: Michael Grant
Publisher: Harper Collins Children Books
Pages: 590
Source of Book: My local public library

Summary: (courtesy of http://www.harperteen.com/books/Hunger-Gone-Novel-Michael-Grant/?isbn=9780061449062)

It's been three months since everyone under the age of fifteen became trapped in the bubble known as the FAYZ.


Three months since all the adults disappeared.

Gone.

Food ran out weeks ago. Everyone is starving, but no one wants to figure out a solution. And each day, more and more kids are evolving, developing supernatural abilities that set them apart from the kids without powers.
Tension rises and chaos is descending upon the town. It's the normal kids against the mutants. Each kid is out for himself, and even the good ones turn murderous.
But a larger problem looms. The Darkness, a sinister creature that has lived buried deep in the hills, begins calling to some of the teens in the FAYZ. Calling to them, guiding them, manipulating them.

The Darkness has awakened. And it is hungry.
My Rating: 6.5 out of a possible 10
Explanation: Overall, I found that this book was not as captivating or enthralling as Gone, but it does have a nice lead up to the not yet released conclusion to the trilogy. More is [thankfully] revealed about 'the darkness' and the desperation about food comes to be a main point throughout the entire novel.
 
I came to love new characters, and was taken on an emotional rollercoaster in the last quarter of the book, but the rest is forgettable plot occasionally perforated with bits of useful information.
 
I did truly enjoy the state Caine and Sam are in at the conclusion of the book, don't want to give anything away!
 
Overall, read this if you've read the first one. If the first one didn't strike you, don't bother with this one.

The Book of Spells

Title: The Book of Spells: A Private Prequel
Author: Kate Brian
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
Pages: 336
Source of Book: My local public library

Summary: (courtesy of http://www.privatetheseries.com/book-of-spells/)

It all began with a dusty leather-bound spell book. With the book of spells in hand, the Billings Girls possess enough power to form a secret coven. Bonded in sisterhood, they wield their magic to free themselves from the watchful eyes of their headmistress—and to bolster their courage with the boys of Easton Academy. But what starts out as innocent fun, soon turns sinister. From 1915 to 2010, fun always leads to something sinister when it involves the Billings Girls.

My Rating: 7.5 out of a possible 10

Explanation: I found this book much more interesting overall than the other books in the Private series.
I liked the 1915 old timey feel [a taste I learned to love by reading the Luxe series], and I liked how it had that touch of unrealistic with successful witchcraft.

Overall, I liked that this novel and characters stood alone, but that it relates so strongly to the most recent [and probably future] Private novels. The characters are magnificent and multifaceted, and my only criticism is how one of the plot lines ends...

Aside from that? I liked this novel, and I wish it would spin off into its own series.

Gone

Title: Gone
Author: Michael Grant
Publisher: HarperTeen
Pages: 558
Source of Book: My local public library

Summary: (courtesy of http://www.harpercollins.com/books/Gone-Michael-Grant/?isbn=9780061448768)

In the blink of an eye. Everyone disappears. GONE.

Except for the young. Teens. Middle schoolers. Toddlers. But not one single adult. No teachers, no cops, no doctors, no parents. Just as suddenly, there are no phones, no internet, no television. No way to get help. And no way to figure out what's happened.

Hunger threatens. Bullies rule. A sinister creature lurks. Animals are mutating. And the teens themselves are changing, developing new talents—unimaginable, dangerous, deadly powers—that grow stronger by the day.

It's a terrifying new world. Sides are being chosen, a fight is shaping up. Townies against rich kids. Bullies against the weak. Powerful against powerless. And time is running out: On your birthday, you disappear just like everyone else...


My Rating: 8.5 out of a possible 10


Explanation: Well for starters, I had to stop reading this book twice. It wasn't especially graphic or frightening, and it was an original and interesting concept; however, something about it struck a chord with me.
 
I picked up this book as a quick read, since I've read about everything in the library, but it gave me nightmares and strange dreams for two nights. I have never had bad dreams relate so exactly to a book, ever.
 
Now, aside from my brain's strange reaction..
The concept of this book was unlike any book I've ever read, and it's fascinating. I had to keep reminding myself these were children 14 and under, as they were forced to act so adult. It was off to a slow start, but things get intense halfway through and do not stop.
 
I didn't know what to expect and things just kept clicking into place one by one. Overall, this book was fascinating, disturbing, and an entirely new concept to my reading. I would read it if you want a book that is unlike any book you've ever read with action, action, and a wide array of characters both lovable and hateable. Oh, and action.
 
I'm not sure if I liked it, but the fact that it struck me this deeply is reason enough for an 8.5 for me. Oh, and I will be reading the sequel [it's a trilogy].

Torment

Title: Torment

Author: Lauren Kate

Publisher: Delacorte Press
Pages: 452
Source of Book: My local public library

Summary: (courtesy of http://laurenkatebooks.net/category/books)

Lucinda is sure that she and Daniel are meant to be together forever. Now they are forced apart in a desperate bid to save Luce from the Outcasts–immortals who want her dead. As she discovers more about her past lives, Luce starts to suspect that Daniel is hiding something. What if he has lied to her about their shared past? What if Luce is really meant to be with someone else?

My Rating: 9 out of a possible 10


Explanation: I wasn't sure what to expect when Fallen left off [you can read my review of Fallen HERE]. Thankfully, I was riveted to this entire novel. Without giving anything away, I'll say that the new location was fabulous to picture, and brought a new host of characters that are fascinating and crucial in their own way.
 
In fact, not much is revealed about Luce in the grand scheme of things, and somehow that didn't faze me. The shadows become not only revealed, but crucial, and the end leaves off with a cliffhanger. The sequel, Passion, comes out this summer [according to the last page of the book], and I will be watching and waiting for it.
 
I have a theory about a patten I noticed with the couples, and I don't want to write it, but if anyone else would like to hear it, feel free to email me HERE, and please let me know your own theories. 

Overall, this book was better and faster moving than the first, and a great tie in of characters and plots, despite the new setting. Also, new sides of existing characters are revealed, and the plot has twists around every corner. If you've read the first one, rush out and get this one somehow.

Fallen

Title: Fallen
Author: Lauren Kate
Publisher: Delacourte Press
Pages: 452
Source of Book: My local public library


Summary: (courtesy of http://laurenkatebooks.net/category/books)
There’s something achingly familiar about Daniel Grigori.




Mysterious and aloof, he captures Luce Price’s attention from the moment she sees him on her first day at the Sword & Cross boarding school in sultry Savannah, Georgia. He’s the one bright spot in a place where cell phones are forbidden, the other students are all screw-ups, and security cameras watch every move.
Even though Daniel wants nothing to do with Luce–and goes out of his way to make that very clear–she can’t let it go. Drawn to him like a moth to a flame, she has to find out what Daniel is so desperate to keep secret . . . even if it kills her.


My Rating: 8.5 out of a possible 10


Explanation: I had checked the sequel Torment out of the library, knowing I had read Fallen before. However, nothing about the synopsis inside the book jacket jogged any memory, and so I reread Fallen. About 70 pages in my memory clicked it, and I had intertwined it with another book, of which the name slips my mind. In this other book, a girl gets sent to a similar reform school, but it ends in a drastically different way . This has never happened before so I was expecting my reread to be dull.
 
On the contrary, this book captivated me all over again. The surprises built up in a way that was not aggravating and sort of allowed the reader to guess what was coming, but left parts out. I only knew who was friend and who was foe because the memories rushed back, but it kept me in suspense all over again..
 
The romance is clear and the reader [well, at least I], feel nothing but love for Daniel and hatred for those who deserve it. Also, this book shows the loss of a loved character, one of my favorites, in the FIRST book of the series. That was a drastically unexpected twist, and I hope typing that doesn't give anything away.
 
I was only disappointed with the confusing epilogue, but since the sequel is in my possession, I'm less dissatisfied. It's a good book...as long as you can get your hands on the next one [I'm assuming].

Out for Blood



Title:

Out for Blood
Author: Alyxandra Harvey
Publisher: Walker Publishing Company
Pages: 292
Source of Book: My local public library

Summary: (courtesy of http://alyxandraharvey.com/drake-chronicles/dc-book-iii/)

Hunter Wild is the youngest in a long line of elite vampire hunters, a legacy that is both a blessing and a curse at the secret Helios-Ra Academy, where she excels at just about everything. Thanks to her friendship with Kieran Black, Hunter receives a special invitation to attend the coronation of Helena Drake, and for the first time, he sees the difference between vampires that must be hunted and vampires that can become friends — or even more. When students at the academy fall victim to a mysterious illness, Hunter suspects they are under attack from within. She will need someone she can trust to help her save the future of Helios-Ra . . . help that shockingly comes in the form of Quinn Drake, a drop-dead gorgeous vampire. Who said senior year would be easy?


My Rating: 7.5 out of a possible 10

Explanation: Although I find these books somewhat predictible once they start, this third book has me officially hooked to the story line. I officially added the fourth book [out November] to my To Read excel document. To read my reviews of the first and second book look HERE and HERE, respectively.

I knew this book would include a romance with a Drake vampire, and I genuinely enjoy guessing and then opening the book, reading the book jacket, and trying to guess who else the romance is with. I liked the twist of the other romantic partner. I thought it was fascinating to see into the Helios-Ra academy. I wished that these characters were briefly introduced in a previous book, however. I found it hard to relate to the friends of the main character.

I saw the twist at the end coming, but that could be due to me reading too many YA paranormal books. Still, I liked it and liked when it came about. Also different in this story is that not everything is happy and resolved at the end, one loose end is left with some bad blood [figuratively].

All in all, if you've read the first two, I'd advise you to read the third one. I liked this book, and they remain of consistent quality. It's a good book, and I enjoy that Quinn's personality is so different from Nicholas or any of his other brothers, even his twin.

Uninvited

Title: Uninvited
Author: Justine Musk
Publisher: Pocket Books
Pages: 258
Source of Book: My local public library
Summary: (courtesy of http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Uninvited/Justine-Musk/e/9781416538271/?itm=3)

Synopsis


Kelly Ruland's world fell apart when her brother Jasper walked away the sole survivor of a car accident...and kept walking right out of town. She doesn't want to believe that Jasper was at fault - but then why did he run away? How could he abandon Kelly and her parents? Now, former star student and athlete Kelly struggles to care about anything anymore, sleepwalking through school and experimenting with dangerous behavior as she tries to fill the void inside her.
Then one night, Jaspers returns...but he's not alone. Someone has followed him home. Someone who hides in the space behind the truth, who hovers in the shadows between the known and the unknown. His name is Archie, and he is the stranger they never asked to know, the guest they never invited . And he's about to challenge Kelly and Jasper to a game that demands a price they may not be willing to pay...

My Rating: 7 out of a possible 10

Explanation: This book was hard to follow a bulk of the time, as are most books that relate in any way to time, space, and dimensions.
 
Overall, as the book went on more and more things became clear. I read it when I was baby-sitting, after I put the kids to bed and I was spooked. I was a bit convinced I was going to see things the entire drive home at midnight [thankfully, nothing creepy appeared].
 
I liked this book, but it was nothing at all like what I was expecting, and I expected the romantic subplot to be a little more advanced at the end..
and that's really my only critisism.
I enjoyed this book, and if you like mildly spooky books that don't make sense until the end, when everything is revealed, this is a fun read. I'm not encouraging you to rush out and buy it right now, but next time you're at a bookstore and nothing stands out, it's good.

Nightshade

Title: Nightshade
Author: Andrea Cremer
Publisher: Philomel Books
Pages: 454
Source of Book: My local public library
Summary: (courtesy of http://www.andreacremer.com/books.html)

While other teenage girls daydream about boys, Calla Tor imagines ripping out her enemies’ throats. And she wouldn’t have it any other way. Calla was born a warrior and on her eighteenth-birthday she’ll become the alpha female of the next generation of Guardian wolves. But Calla’s predestined path veers off course the moment she saves the life of a wayward hiker, a boy her own age. This human boy’s secret will turn the young pack's world upside down and forever alter the outcome of the centuries-old Witches' War that surrounds them all.

My Rating: 8.5 out of a possible 10


Explanation: This book was sick. in a good way.
 
Once I got past the names all being mildly strange and began to figure out who was who and what the guardians and keepers and searchers were, the book went from mildly interesting to fascinating.
 
Calla is torn between two boys, typical YA novel. Unlike the typical YA novel, one seems awesome and the other one.. I can't figure out if I love him or hate him...but I'm pretty sure I love him.
 
This book was good, routine, and as the end approached things started happening that no one [or at least not myself and the characters] foresaw. The last chapter is amazingly intense, and I'm very glad it's going to be a trilogy. [They seem to be my thing lately].
 
Overall, this book was super entertaining, and the main character had some interesting dilemmas. I genuinely enjoyed it, more and more as the book progressed and the plot became more complex. The role of women in this was very interesting, as everyone seems to be somewhat subservient of the males due to the principles of the wolf pack....
 
I think it's time to say buh bye vampires and hello warewolves.

Matched

Title: Matched
Author: Ally Condie
Publisher: Penguin Group
Pages: 366
Source of Book: My local public library

Summary: (courtesy of http://www.thematcheddepartment.com/?page_id=11)

Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her: what to read, what to watch, what to believe. So when Xander’s face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows with complete certainty that he is her ideal mate . . . until she sees Ky Markham’s face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black.

The Society tells her it’s a glitch, a rare malfunction, and that she should focus on the happy life she’s destined to lead with Xander. But Cassia can’t stop thinking about Ky, and as they slowly fall in love, Cassia begins to doubt the Society’s infallibility and is faced with an impossible choice: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she’s known and a path that no one else has dared to follow.


My Rating: 8.5 out of a possible 10


Explanation: The futuristic dystopic air of this novel completely reminded me of one of my favorite books ever read in an English class in high school, Brave New World.
 
At first, I thought this novel was cute. The matching ceremony seemed strange, but the immediate results promised a cute romance story. When things began to get complicated, I was rooting for one guy, and as the story evolved, rooting for the other. This story is a difficult one for the reader to choose what they wish the outcome would be, and one can only imagine the dilemma from the character's point of view.
 
I was also glad to find that the family was relatable and well developed. It's rare that parents' decisions play such a role in the protagonists' thoughts, and I was glad to see they had in this novel.
 
Overall, I got to the end and was disappointed that was where it ends...until I went to Ally Condie's website and discovered this was the first in a trilogy! I am so anxious to read the next two books, and cannot imagine where the plot is going to go, although I have a hunch about the end of the third book, currently untitled.
 
In some reviews on the website, it has been compared to The Hunger Games trilogy. I can see slight connections, but those were more about survival and this novel is more about free thinking and rebellion. It's almost a younger and more updated version of George Orwell's 1984.
 
I genuinely enjoyed this book and look forward to it's sequel. The main character and I never really connected, but I got to see things from her point of view and could relate as I didn't know who to root for. I want to know what happens next to these characters, who I feel like I know personally.

The Keepers' Tattoo

Title: The Keepers' Tattoo
Author: Gill Arbuthnott
Publisher: Chicken House
Pages: 425
Source of Book: My local public library

Summary: (courtesy of http://gillarbuthnott.wordpress.com/books/)

Nyssa is an orphan who has no memory of her family or where she came from. Her life is turned inside out when she discovers an uncle she didn’t know about, and has to flee with him from the sinister Shadowmen. Why are they hunting her? Now Nyssa must find a twin she never knew she had and unravel the mystery of the tattooed message they both carry, before the Shadowmen hunt them all down.



My Rating: 6 out of a possible 10


Explanation: I had a lot of trouble getting into this book, and there were few characters I got emotionally involved in, excluding the main character of the book! It took me over a week to complete this book, due to a lack of interest.
 
The beginning is slow, but as the main secret in the book becomes revealed after about two thirds of the book, it begins to pick up the pace. The ending of this book takes you on a twist or turn, but overall it's not what I was expecting, and I was slightly disappointed.
 
Don't get me wrong, it was still a decent story, just not great.
 
The shadowmen are appropriately ruthless, and another character who gets involved is delightlyfully complex. While I had an inkling of one of the events at the end, it led me away then suddently fast forwarded and I was correct.

Pure Sin (Privilege Series)

Title: Pure Sin (A Privilege Novel)
Author: Kate Brian
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Pages: 191
Source of Book: My local public library
Summary: (courtesy of http://www.privatetheseries.com/privilege/)

After getting rid of her best-friend-turned-enemy, Arian Osgood should be on top of the world. She's in love with a hot guy, and she's established herself as an elite member of a secret society. But now that Lexa Greene knows a terrible secret about her, everything that Ariana has worked so hard for hangs in the balance. Can she keep up the facade . . . or will her house of cards tumble around her?
My Rating: 7.5 out of a possible 10

Explanation: This is the fifth (and most recent) book in the Privilege series, which is a spinoff series of the Private series. I would strongly suggest reading the Private books prior to the Privilege books, of which this is the most recent.
 
I picked up the first in the Private series as a quick summer read, and while it may not be a work of literary art, or the characters may not bring tears to my eyes, the plot is what shines. These books are keep a fast and riveting plot, with character and plot twists around every corner.
 
As far as this book specifically, I was excited to see what twist or challenge Ariana would face now. I was not disappointed. The actions of one of the characters was a little over dramatic, but I haven't gone through the trauma inflicted on her in previous novels, so perhaps I'm just out of the loop. I would have liked to have seen more secret society ceremony. The entire book was made much better by the last few paragraphs, the biggest plot event in this series in my opinion. I am very excited to see how this dilemma works itself out for Ariana, and if anyone dies in the process.

Mockingjay (Book 3 in the Hunger Games Trilogy)

Title: Mockingjay
Author: Suzanne Collins
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Pages: 390
Source of Book: My local public library
Summary: (courtesy of http://www.suzannecollinsbooks.com/works.htm)


Katniss Everdeen, girl on fire, has survived, even though her home has been destroyed. There are rebels. There are new leaders. A revolution is unfolding.
My Rating: 8 out of a possible 10

Explanation: Standing alone, this book would be perfect for someone who loves action, gore, and self sacrifice (everything I do NOT go for in a book). However, the first books have made me love and know these characters, as mentioned in my reviews of The Hunger Games and Catching Fire.The Book picked up on Katniss' storyline in a place full of uncertainty, and progressed through it with the sense of new age technology, and suspecting motives underneath the plots of the prior books. Awareness seemed to dawn on me after the main character.
 
The majority of the book is action action action, and the only thing keeping me reading so intently into the middle of the night was the bits of plot and the important and notable events and deaths. This entire section is well written and thought out, just not my thing.
 
The ending was something I had hoped for, although did not come about exactly in the way I had hoped for. I literally cried after reading the last sentence, and was still pleased with the ending. Suzanne Collins did a brilliant job with this conclusion of the trilogy, and I doubt anyone else could have brought me on this rollercoaster of emotions to where I'm still not sure if I'm pleased or saddened by this novel. Wow.

Morpheus Road (The Light)

Title: Morpheus Road- The Light
Author: D.J. MacHale
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Pages: 341
Source of Book: My local public library


Summary: (courtesy of http://djmachalebooks.com/books/morpheus-road/the-light/)


Marshall Seaver is being haunted. In the first installment of this chillingly compelling trilogy, sixteen-year-old Marshall discovers that something beyond our world is after him. The eerie clues pile up quickly, and when people start dying, it’s clear whatever this isit’s huge.
Marshall has no idea what’s happening to him, but he’s soon convinced that it has something to do with his best friend Cooper, who’s been missing for over a week. Together with Coop’s sister, Marsh searches for the truth about what happened to his friend, ultimately uncovering something bigger than he could ever have imagined.

My Rating: 8.5 out of a possible 10
Explanation: This book caught my attention primarily because it was displayed in my library, so it was newer. I picked it up on a whim, and I'm glad I did. I was pleased to discover D.J. MacHale wrote the Are you Afraid of the Dark? show that both fascinated and terrified me as a child. Also, I know the pendragon books are well known, although I have never read them.
 
I found the character a bit unrelatable, but that was most likely due to not having ever been a teenage boy. Also, the things that happened to Marshall intrigued me, but I got slightly bored hearing about them and was more than ready for the answers when they began to arrive. I would suggest reading this during the day, however, and not when you're alone in a house. I read it at 10am on a snowy morning with my mother snowed home from work, and I was spooked.
 
 The end took the buildup of what was expected and crushed it in an instant, further complicating things. This would have annoyed me in a television show, but I found it somewhat fun in a novel. I am excited for the sequel in this [future] trilogy, but I don't mind waiting until April. I really enjoyed the book, and am excited to find more answers and how certain characters are tied into the plot. .

Catching Fire (Book 2 in the Hunger Games Trilogy)

Title: Catching Fire
Author: Suzanne Collins
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Pages: 391
Source of Book: My local public library




Summary: (courtesy of http://www.suzannecollinsbooks.com/works.htm)
Much to her shock, Katniss has fueled an unrest she's afraid she cannot stop. And what scares her 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.


My Rating: 9 out of a possible 10




Explanation: I was ecstatic that I had taken this book out of the library along with the first one, as I barely took a breath before cracking it open. As I had said in my review for The Hunger Games (which can be found HERE if you missed it!), Suzanne Collins truly creates characters that I consider friends. It is nice to see an antagonist who is strong and still has flaws, as well as being unwaveringly loyal without being boring. The plot picks up a few months from the end of the first novel, and the complexities increase. Outside characters only mentioned in passing before have expanded, and knowledge about the 12 districts expands, creating an entirely new world of conspiracy. Without giving too much away, I can say that the twists and turns that arise are completely unexpected, and I was wholly unprepared for the major event that took place within the plot, just as the characters were. The ending was suitable, but I have many more questions and much more anticipation than I did at the conclusion of the first book. Overall, these books are well written and I am infinitely glad I read them.

The Hunger Games (Book 1 in the Hunger Games Trilogy)

Title: The Hunger Games
Author: Suzanne Collins
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Pages: 374
Source of Book: My local public library




Summary: (courtesy of http://www.suzannecollinsbooks.com/works.htm)


Katniss is a 16-year-old girl living with her mother and younger sister in the poorest district of Panem, the remains of what used be the United States. Long ago the districts waged war on the Capitol and were defeated. As part of the surrender terms, each district agreed to send one boy and one girl to appear in an annual televised event called, "The Hunger Games." The terrain, rules, and level of audience participation may change but one thing is constant: kill or be killed. When her sister is chosen by lottery, Katniss steps up to go in her place.






My Rating: 9 out of a possible 10


Explanation: I heard this book recommended on YouTube, and was hesitant as it's not like the novels I usually read. I was reassured when one of my favorite librarians told me to read this book before the others I had taken out. I generally shy away from novels set in the future, and anything about utopian or dystopian societies. As it was, the beginning was necessary, although a little slow while introducing the characters. At times, I felt like I was reading about characters from the past in a futuristic world, if that makes sense. However, as the story progressed, I found myself more and more involved, and truly caring about the characters. This book captured my attention so well, I was reading any moment I wasn't at work! The tragedies made me weep, and the moments of happiness and underlying romance made me smile and laugh along with the characters. Truly, Suzanne Collins can create multidimensional, lovable characters with flaws and imperfections very akin to any best friend. Lastly, I felt that the novel ended at a good time. While I was hungry to dive into the next book, I didn't feel as this one was unfinished, as sometimes series' tend to make me feel.

Blood Feud (Drake Chronicles, Book 2)

Title: Blood Feud (Drake Chronicles, Book 2)
Author: Alyxandra Harvey

Publisher: Walker Publishing Company, Inc
Pages: 258

Source of Book: My local public library



Summary: (courtesy of alyxandraharvey.com)

It’s been centuries since Isabeau St. Croix barely survived the French Revolution. Now she’s made her way back to the living and she must face the ultimate test by confronting the evil British lord who left her for dead the day she turned into a vampire. That’s if she can control her affection for Logan Drake, a vampire whose bite is as sweet as the revenge she seeks. The clans are gathering for Helena’s royal coronation as the next vampire queen, and new alliances are beginning to form now that the old rifts of Lady Natasha’s reign have started to heal. But with a new common enemy, Leander Montmarte—a vicious leader who hopes to force Solange to marry him and usurp the power of the throne for himself — the clans must stand together to preserve the peace he threatens to destroy. This second adventure in the Drake Chronicles—told from both Logan’s and Isabeau’s perspectives — has all the same butt-kicking action, heart-pounding romances and snarky humor that readers loved in Hearts at Stake, as well as exciting new revelations about the vampire dynasties to keep readers coming back for more.

My Rating: 7.5 out of a possible 10


Explanation: I found this book much more involved than the first in the series (for a review, see an earlier post HERE), and saw more dynamic sides to the characters. Also, I really enjoyed that Alyxandra Harvey wrote this book in continuing time from a different character's prospective. I found that twist refreshing, and it's nice to see Solange and the Drake parents from a different insider point of view. As for the plot, I could again see the romance storyline from the first chapter or so, but the rest of the plot kept me in a pleasant suspense, and built up to the final action filled chapters in the book. I anticipate the email from my library, telling me the third book in the series is in, and ready for me to read. What siblings' stories will be chronicled next? Will the new alliances be pushed, and what will become of the characters that are already entwined? I can't wait to find out.

Hearts at Stake (Drake Chronicles, Book 1)

Title: Hearts at Stake (Drake Chronicles, Book 1)
Author: Alyxandra Harvey
Publisher: Walker Books for Young Readers
Pages: 256
Source of Book: My local public library

Summary: (courtesy of alyxandraharvey.com)

On Solange’s sixteenth birthday, she is going to wake up dead. As if that’s not bad enough, she also has to outwit her seven overprotective older brothers, avoid the politics involved with being the only daughter born to an ancient vampire dynasty, and elude Kieran Black—agent of an anti-vampire league who is searching for his father’s killer and is intent on staking Solange and her entire family. Luckily she has her own secret weapon—her human best friend Lucy. Lucy is willing to defend Solange’s right to a normal life, whether she’s being smothered by her well-intentioned brothers or abducted by a power-hungry queen. Two unlikely alliances are formed in a race to save Solange’s eternal life—Lucy and Solange’s brother Nicholas, and Solange and Kieran Black — in a dual romance that is guaranteed to jump start any romance-lover’s heart.

My Rating: 6.5 out of a possible 10

Explanation: I picked up this book expecting a somewhat juvenile quick read about vampires and romance, and was pleasantly surprised. While much of the plot was predictable and the characters relatable but not extensively complicated, there were elements that surprised me and plot twists I did not see coming. The romances that bloom were very predictable, but also absolutely adorable, and had me rooting for the moment when the characters would realize it. Overall, I put this book down with a smile, but it was somewhat like what I had expected.

Rating System

I'll rate books on a 10 point scale of books, as it seems to be the most widely accepted form of rating.

1- This book was terrible, I would not encourage ANYONE to read this book.

2- This book is rotten, I have no idea why anyone would give it good reviews. What a waste of paper.

3- This book was a waste of my time, I would never reread it, and wish I hadn't wasted my day.

4- This book wasn't really my favorite, I could think of better ways to spend my time.

5- This book was alright. I'm not mad I wasted time reading it, but I wish I had known about it's mediocrity.

6- This book was good, I don't regret reading it, but I could have lived without it.

7- This was a good book, and I would strongly recommend it to people who enjoy books in this genre.

8- This book was awesome, I will recommend it to the majority of my friends, truly great.

9- This book was powerful or poignant, and left me dazed with a 'wow' feeling for hours.

10- This is a near flawless book, I highly reccommend it to EVERYONE.