Feature and Follow Friday #4

Feature and Follow Friday is an awesome weekly meme hosted by Alison Can Read and Parajunkee. Every week they choose a featured blogger with questions to answer to everybody. A wonderful way to meet other bloggers and discover blogs! Share the love!

This weeks question:

When you step out of your USUAL genre what do you like to read? Best books in that genre?

For now, my usual genre would be Young Adult. However, that has only been so for about a year and half, I'd say. I used to really enjoy a good crime novel (anything by Agatha Christie, Rex Stout and Erle Stanley Gardner.) Also epic fantasy has always been my soft spot, I just usually prefer it in YA genre. But my current love is A Song of Ice and Fire series by G.R.R. Martin. Long live! And I have always loved historical fiction about Ancient Egypt, my personal favorites are Sinuhe the Egyptian by Mika Waltari and Ramses series by Christian Jaque. Such fond memories!

Betrayed - P.C and Kristin Cast (House Of Night #2)

*4.5 stars*

What I forgot to mention in the review of the Marked, is that I absolutely loved Zoes markings. I wish some talented artist would draw her mark and tattoos :) Delicate emerald net... I wish I could pull it off.

Plot continued to surprise me pleasantly (also sometimes not so pleasantly!) At times it did seem slower, than in Marked, but all the things started, get even more confusing twist and seem far from being over. Already the first third of the book made me see the already familiar character so differently, Neferet, Aphrodite. Wow. I can only hold my breath, eyes bulging out, of what could happen next.

What did irk me, was the constant que of guys around Zoe. And it always started with her thoughts, of how the guy is possibly the best looking male on the planet Earth. Seriously? Erik seemed like a ordinary nobody after that and I feel sorry for him. I still like him the best, but sometimes Zoe really made me doubt her, is she worth such a great guy? Apart from this "minor" character flaw, I still liked her. She did her best to stay true to her visions and I liked how she a had a strong sense of self, strong personality.

And hahaha at all of them trying to figure out how to make a bomb threat the most efficient way! Just who are you supposed to call and actually threaten? Hilarious! One of the best qualities of the House of Night series, is the relationship between Zoe and her circle. I just but collapsed, when Damien mouthed how he has just entered a cute-gay-guys heaven. I was so so happy for him. And of course, the twins. "Ditto Twin!" I really hope they will all stay together through all the series, this knowledge only would already make me finish it! On the Chosen!

Matched - Ally Condie (Matched #1)

*5 stars*

Finally! I've been waiting for such a long time to read it, I don't even know, what kept me so long.

For a starter, the only other Dystopian book I've ever read, was the Hunger Games, and let's just say they're vastly different. This world is designed to only undergo actions with maximized benefits for the society and through this, to individuals. For example, the amount of food you need to consume, in order to stay in your best possible physical state, is calculated and strictly observed. So is the amount of physical exercise and leisure time. You can't even go jogging if you want and your own time was non-existent.

The most fitting job for every individual is calculated and decided for them as is the person, you are to marry. All of it of course to assure an individuals maximal amount of happiness. Sounds blissful, doesn't it?
Yeah, right. Don't wear anything pretty in case your neighbors should feel jealous. I mean a world, were you can't even throw away your garbage in peace, everything will be recorded and all anomalies noted, sounds a bit paranoid. All the symbolism they had to use in order to not be discovered was a nice touch. It made them think outside the box and truly see things like they were.The way Kys story was revealed, piece by piece and through drawings was really sad.

Feature and Follow Friday #3

Feature and Follow Friday is an awesome weekly meme hosted by Alison Can Read and Parajunkee. Every week they choose a featured blogger with questions to answer to everybody. A wonderful way to meet other bloggers and discover blogs! Share the love!

This weeks question:

What book do you think would make a great Halloween movie? (Please explain in graphic detail and goriness...)

Well... the only book (actually the whole series, to be more exact) in my read shelf I could come up with was the Saga of Darren Shan. And I know, that technically the first book(s) has already been made into a movie, but I feel the series was just awesome, creepy and gripping, that the should definitely go on with it, and hopefully start from the beginning again.
It's full of truly gruesome and horrific twists and turns. I usually see through the tricks, but here all the unexpected kept happening. The characters are creepy and just awesome. Overall, this series is phenomenal and would make an awesome Halloween read/movie!

Marked - P.C. and Kristin Cast (House of Night #1)

*5 stars*

After a really long time finally one paperback! I've gotten so used to ebooks I had forgotten exactly how good it felt! This book didn't make me fall face first into bed and giggle, but it kept me constantly focused with a weird smile on my face.

I have to say, it was really easy to get into this book. I liked Zoey, her humor and sarcasm made me laugh. Zoey reminded me a lot of myself. The ability to completely forget the most important appointment for the day and then conveniently remember it like 2 minutes before. "Oh, hell!" I so agree Zoey :D For once again this take of vampires was new to me. Apparently their existence was a public knowledge and they were even researched by scientists. I also liked the theory (or in that case, the lack of it) how the Trackers chose people and Marked.

The book gets a quick start and Zoey gets thrown in the middle of everything. I feel the need to point how pathetic her perfect family was. John was really a gigantic narrow-minded and hypocritical step-loser. I really liked, how they blew everything over the top and still keeping it believable. But I think that there are families out there like hers, and most definitely like Damiens. He was such a sweet guy, making fun of his own gayness, yet still being so incredibly alone. I really hope he finds someone! I liked Erik as well. It was fun reading everyone squirm every time he came close! Her whole "circle" was awesome! Their loyal and always behind her back ♥

I also really enjoyed how Nix played the central role in the whole story. How she has been the same for the beginning of times, just with different names, choosing special people to carry out assignments. And the Mystery of the Big Bad made me also twitch and want to read even quicker. I even enjoyed the descriptive parts with rituals and circle casting. I could really picture the rooms and Zoey in the midst.

Top Ten Tuesday ( #2) Books You'd Hand To Someone Who Doesn't Like To Read

Top Ten Books is an awesome weekly  meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish.This week we were given a free pick from all the previous topics, which is really good, because I've missed out so much! I want to dedicate it to my little brother, who always says he hates reading and after a lot of grumbling and convincing ends up loving the books I choose. While choosing, I tried to pick books, which would make the reader enjoy it and want to read more. So without further ado, my choice for this weeks TTT:

Top Ten Books You'd Hand To Someone Who Says They Don't Like To Read:

1. Percy Jackson and the Olympians series by Rick Riordan. I think this series is an awesome way to get people reading. You couldn't really not like it. Every book is different and filled with myths combined with our everyday lives. It's funny, quick paced and just plain awesome!
2. The Secrets of the Immortal Nicolas Flamel series by Michael Scott. It's pretty much the same. A great series about completely ordinary brother and sister who are suddenly thrown into the midst of magic and long forgotten mythical creatures. 
3. Pretty much any book by Terry Pratchett. He is just hilarious and as one of my favorite authors I recommend his books to everyone. I mostly end up laughing and clutching my stomach.
4. Following the same track, I most definitely would recommend the Bartimaeus trilogy by Jonathan Strout. I still remember reading it for the first time, I though it was the best series in the world. There'shardly anything more amusing then a stuck up gin released from a bottle and a clumsy teenage boy.
5. From the classics, depending on a person, but still, I'd recommend Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë. It still stays as one of my favorite books and had a huge impact on me. I think everyone would get something out of Mr Rochesters and Janes relationship.
6. Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare. A YA series, which I found absolutely hilarious, action packed and full of surprises. The writing style made me grip my stomach from laughter.
7. Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë. Another one of my absolute favorites. Sinister and greedy, this book lets you see the ugly side of love. It is so strangely touching, impossibly sad and passionate, that it just has to affect you.
8. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. Yeah I know half of the people hate this book with fire, but it still stays as one of the classics in my list. It shows a side of literature you usually might not pick up. Naive and at the same time fierce.
9. The Alchemist by Paulo Coleho. I only decided to pick it up, because I received it as a present, but it ended up as one of the most motivating books in my list. It was spiritual, but not in the strict sense of the term. It made me think about myself and the way I look at the world. Quick and easy read.
10. And last but not least, the Harry Potter series by JKR. I think no one can say after reading Harry Potter that they did not enjoy it even a little.

                          

Little update + Half-Blood - Jennifer L. Armentrout (Covenant #1)

Hey guys!
I just wanted to let you know that  I'm sorry for the slow updates! I recently moved into my new university and all that packing and tons of paperwork has taken its toll. I miss reading so much :( But on the bright side, there's and awesome bookshop here, where I had my first book haul! I got Marked, #1 in the House of Night Series by Kristin Cast and The Nosferatu Scrolls by James Becker both for £1!! I already love it here.

*3.5 stars*

Yay! Another book by Jennifer L. Armentrout. Let s just say I m preeeety excited! - the first thought upon receiving the book.
---

Let's just say that only about half-way through the book did I get into the action. I felt like the plot was loose and everything felt a bit all over the place. One of the biggest distractions was that I did not like Alex. Instead of being quirky and funny, she came off as pointlessly reckless and just plain rude and ungrateful. I can see how she didn't know how to appreciate all that she has at first, but continuing on being as stupid knowing all the consequences... There wasn't much of a character improvement or development. She really stayed one-dimensional and childish.

On the other hand, I really liked both Caleb and Aiden. Caleb was one of those self denying friends, ready to do anything to make you feel happy if you're sad. The lasts scene was really really heartwarming. And Aiden? I admire his endless patience and willingness to babysit such an selfish troublemaker. I did like the relationship between Aiden and Alex, once again deliciously forbidden. The attraction was there and I could really feel it.

Both, the huge discovery and the character of Seth left me rather nonplussed. I can see how in the future it could be a great line for additional characters and relationships, yet still. Currently it all felt a little discarded.

Easy - Tammara Webber

*3.5 stars* Love the cover! For a change shows exactly, how I imagined the characters to look like.

A decent chick- lit ya novel. Nothing ground braking, but left me feeling warm inside. A rather typical novel of a naive girl leaving all behind and follows the boy of her dreams blah-blah. Of course, the fairytale doesn't last long. What I liked about this book, was the overall idea of teaching girls to take care and stand for themselves. You never know, where a potential threat may come from! Emphasis was on the developing and maturing, overcoming your inner demons and just being there for each other.

There really was no ohmygodwhathappensnow-feeling, but I was okay with it. It was easy to read and all the characters were very human. I even liked Kennedy. Of course he was a total nutsack xD, BUT at the same time, he felt so totally real. *sigh* Girls holding together and standing for each other was heart warming. There is always a chance of something happening, but what matters is how you deal with it. There's nothing like great friend in the time of need.

The ending was anticlimactic. It was obvious a mile away. I much more liked the slow pace of hidden past revealing itself. I also hope, that there will be no sequel. The story of Jacqueline and Lucas is finished. Anything more would only be unnecessary and empty drama.

Barely Breathing - Rebecca Donovan (the Breathing #2)

* 4.5 stars*

 Barely Breathing continues six months after the events in The Reason to Breath.

The plot was intense and so were my emotions while reading it. I could literally feel myself tensing up. I have been reading this series for over a long period of time, but it's one  of these kind of books that won't leave your mind even after a long period of time. 

What captivated me with this book was the authenticity of the feelings. The drama was done realistically, full of emotions. I was at the edge of the set most of the time gnawing my nails off and no major events weren't even happening jet. The way Rebecca Donovan delivers feelings is very emotional.

Emma just doesn't feel like your average teenage heroine. No emotional and dramatic fits, just... Emma. Calculating and a very feet on ground attitude. And then seeing her change 180 degrees, and releasing her inner anger, in second becoming a force of destruction was awe-inspiring.

The only thing making me feel a little less than 5 stars full of love, was again the ending. It's only natural that all these accidents and drama is catching up with her and making her do all kind of stupid things. I can understand all of this. But I just can't take this noble-idiot-syndrome, it makes me gnash my teeth.

Still, overall I liked this book a lot. Different from the first one. Fresh and interesting, yet still managing to keep the original feel to it. Can't wait for the third book, Out of Breath! We don't even have a release date yet :( , but I'm sure, I'll read it at the first possible chance!

Feature and Follow Friday #2

Feature and Follow Friday is an awesome weekly meme hosted by Alison Can Read and Parajunkee. Every week the choose a featured blogger with questions to answer to everybody. A wonderful way to meet other bloggers and discover blogs! Share the love!

This weeks question:

What hyped up book do you think was worth all the talk? 

I would have to agree with a lot of you and vouch for The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins!! It left me breathless and awed. It was my first Dystopian novel and just, wow! So worth all the hype. (But only the first book. And second a bit maybe. But the third one should have never happened.) For more details, see my review.

Leave me a comment below to let me know of your thoughts or a link to your own post and I'll be sure to check it out. And don't forget to follow, I always return the favour as well! 
 

The Charm - Alana Siegel (Olivia Hart and the Gifted Program #1)

*5 stars* I don't like to give a perfect score. But this time I did.

Again, a huge thank you for the author for providing me with a copy in exchange of a review! A pretty cover and intriguing synopsis made sure, that I fell for the book from the first look!

The beginning was slow. The characters were introduced properly, before we got into the deeper action, but at times it felt too unnecessarily draggy. About halfway through the book, we finally got to some action. I really liked, how all the discovery was set up and Olivias complete obliviousness. Her thorough bafflement made me smile, cute! And even though I'm a sucker for a good romance, it was refreshing to have a storyline were the impossible love was not the main focus. There was just enough romance to keep me rooting for the shy couple. Cutecutecute!

And I really liked the idea of the Gifted. Not even as unique, but so well thought through. The pace felt exactly right. Not too rushed or slow.  The characters rocked as well. Justin really was intense, and the friendship between Jamie and Olivia ♥ The ending left me wishing I had the sequel called The Retreat already! It's said, that hope is for fools, but I REALLY hope, that someday, the #2 book in the Olivia Hart and the Gifted Program series becomes available for ARR as well! Much love!

Feature and Follow Friday #1

Feature and Follow Friday is an awesome weekly meme I just discovered, hosted by Alison Can Read and Parajunkee. Every week the choose a featured blogger with questions to answer to everybody. A wonderful way to meet other bloggers and discover blogs! Share the love!

This weeks question:

What hyped up book do you think was not worth all the talk?

For me it would be the Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor. I remember being really excited and waiting to read it. The cover was beautiful, synopsis awesome and reviews on GR made it shine in a golden glory. And then I read it. For three long months I read it. Painfully, a bit by bit. Waiting, wishing for it to get better. *sigh* (My review)

Leave me a comment below to let me know of your thoughts or a link to your own post and I'll be sure to check it out. And don't forget to follow, I always return teh favour as well!

My Life Next Door - Huntley Fitzgerald

*4 stars*

I really enjoyed it! A nice, easy storyline of a first love. No endless drama and tiring love-triangles. Sweet story about family and career.

It was this kind of book, which while reading seemed really good, but after finishing it's hard to remember exactly, why? The whole adorableness seemed to be centred around the readers emotions. The problems seemed really realistic and searching for the solution together and growing up was pretty life-true. The awkwardness and unfamiliarity of a budding relationship made me smile, Sam and Jase were cute! I think the clever use of our feelings against us made a simple story rise out from the rest.

I could really picture the Garrets household, with all their scattered toys and outgrown lawn. Yet something in that pictures gives off a  warm, comforting feeling. They had each other and it was more important than anything else. Samanthas mother was a strong contrast. Seeing her get more and more distant and dedicated to work. I hate guys like Clay. At least he was easy to see through.

My another favourite relationship was the one between Tim and the Garrets. It was awful seeing him fall into a deep hole, unable to climb out. Reading about Tim and the help coming from the most unexpected sources, gave me so much hope! I wonder how many families are there, like his? His parent were despicable, gah. I hated their guts!

The only thing about the book, which bugged me a little, was the ending. It just kinda... ended? So many loose ends and it felt rushed. I would have liked to know, what happened to Nan, to the rest of the Garrets, to Tim. I felt a bit let down, that after a great tale I was left without a satisfying finish. But I still dare to recommend it! A couple of days read, a tale without exaggerated drama, realistic take on parents and children relationship and finding your own place in the world.

Seduction and Snacks - Tara Sivec (Chocolate Lovers #1)

*5 stars* A wonderful must-read! I laughed, I giggled and I held my stomach as tears of mirth ran down my face. Literally. 

It's thoroughly an adult book, dealing with unexpected pregnancies, raising kids and at the same time trying to maintain at least some social life. The story was sweet and beautiful. I don't remember laughing my ass off like this, at a book. Ever. It was witty, funny and sexy as hell and I could just see everything happening before my eyes while reading.

"As soon as I took eleventy-billion home pregnancy tests, after drinking a gallon of milk so I would have enough pee for all of them, I realized I needed to hunt this guy down. Of course, this was after I Googled "milk and pregnancy tests" to make sure I didn't just spend thirty-seven minutes of my life staring in horror at positive pregnancy tests littered all over my bathroom that may or may not be correct because pasteurization messed with the hormones in your body and created a false positive."

And lets just say Gavin was extremely adorable. Already four, he was a big boy running around and yelling obscenities.  Hilarities ensue.

 "Papa says your friends Johnny, Jack and Jose maded you sick. Friends shouldn't do stuff like that, Mommy. If Luke maded me sick, I'd punch him in the nuts!" "Gavin! Come on, we don't say things like that," I scolded him. "Fine," he huffed. "I'd tickle him in the nuts." Jesus Christ on a waffle cone. There's a reason why some animals in the wild eat their young.

I could go on and on quoting the rest of the book, but that would rather miss the point of the review. The fact is, that I loved it. I read it in a day and would without a thought recommend it to everybody. Well, probably PG14 more likely. Amongst the fun and witty are hidden pretty sharp puns about the "real" life of an adult. So yeah, go for it!!

And there's a sequel! Futures and Frostings is supposed to be released in October. I'm all excited, but also a little nervous. The ending was perfect. I'm not sure I'm up to dealing with some inevitable, but still , downfalls between Carter and Claire. And Gavin is going to grow up! The pouty toddler was at times my favourite! But, I'm excited! I love her style and I'll be sure to check it out!

Beautiful Disaster - Jamie McGuire (Beautiful #1)

*5 stars* I read an ebook edition and have to say I LOVE this cover. More than the other one.

Such a good-mood book.  It made me happy. Regardless of the plot, this emotional roller-coaster decides if I like a book or not. And this one rocked with full speed. I was tearing though the pages, forsaking precious few hours of sleep just to read, moaaar! I even liked the plot, for once with all the drama. Their relationship was crazy, so was their drama. It was intense and sexy as hell.

It was refreshing to meet female character coming from shady background. Abby grew up playing poker with her dad and drinking each other under the table.More than anything she wants to get from anything, reminding her her childhood. But typically, Travis is exactly all that and a lot more. Both had their own demons (and each other) to battle with.

Travis's family, "Six unruly, foul-mouthed and lovable men" like Abby said, made me grin wide. The sweetest type of a real family. Everyone's goofing around, but at the same time they're always there, at your back. I would have loved to hear more of Jim, Travis's father. "You're not the only one with a Poker face." Oh Travis, Travis *million hugs*.

And I just can't help but roll on the floor laughing, when thinking about Parker. He was just so completely and ultimately dumped, repeatedly. The conversations about Parker went on something like, "And Parker? He's not talking to me. Again." Hilarious!

I have to say the ending was unexpected. I almost sprayed out my tea, when I read it. But I guess, I really shouldn't be. It's them after all! Nothing was ordinary.

I also dug up the #2 book. Told in Travis POV. I'm very sceptic about these type of sequels. Seems like a cheap way to carry on. But first we'll have to survive the end of the world. The release of Walking Disaster is scheduled in 2013 after all :)

Game of Thrones - George R. R. Martin (A Song of Ice and Fire #1)

*5 stars* grading a book has never been so easy and impossible at the same time! Winter is coming.

Truly an epic beginning to an amazing journey. The world is dark and sinister and cruel. At start we thrown right into the midst of the action. It was confusing and took some time to get to know the characters. And when finally familiar with all the names, I half thought of returning to the beginning. I'm sure it was full of little things I had now way of noticing. But it was worth it. Out of the shadows shaped out real people with flaws and mistakes.

I loved the universe the author built.  And yes. Even with all the physical, logical and geographical etc. impossibilities and plot-holes. It was awesome! At times it was a bit difficult to follow all the greatgreat uncles and nieces of the main characters and all the classical intrigues between them. It tended to get a bit draggy and outright boring even. But when finally getting back to that seemingly draggy part through another character in the other end of the world with a completely different point of view and then connecting the dots... Let's just say it again. It was awesome.

What really won the was for me was the way the it drew me in and made it believable.(HBOs show might have helped with the image part a bit, but anyways,) The description and style made the environment come alive and gave real emotion to the written words.  I'm hooked.

I could feel the characters developing and changing after every chapter. My personal favourites were the Starks. Winterfell! The idea of direwolves just makes me shiver. In a good way. Especially the discovery of the wolf pups. With the Starks grew up a Snow. "Bastards grow up faster." It's hard, but oddly fitting as well. Lord Snow was another intriguing character. His impossible sense of honour, duty and a secret wish of his fathers love. The wall was a scary place. I loved the bits we were given to see of the world behind. I think he can finally shine there. In his element.

Top Ten Tuesday (#1): Fall TBR List

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish. I've been keeping an eye on it for ages, yet only now decided to participate.

Not many new books on my list. I've been lazing around for the whole summer and now have some massive catching up to do.

Top Ten Books On Your Fall TBR List:

1. Crushed by Jennifer L. Armentrout. Sounds almost as awesome as the Lux series.
2. Clash of Kings (Song of Ice and Fire #2). Should probably add the whole series. Just finished the first book and I'm completely hooked. Winterfell!
3. Origin by Jessica Khoury.
4. City of Lost Souls by Cassandra Clare (Mortal Instruments #5). For some unknown reason have been putting it off for a while. I loved the first three books, but felt a bit let down by the last one.
5. The Janus Affair by Philippa Ballantine(The Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences #2). The first book was hilarious. Poor Wellie, I almost feel bad for him again, agent Braun can be a bit overwhelming xD
6. Seduction and Snacks by Tara Sivec (Chocolate Lovers #1). Recently discovered. I yearn for a good laugh!
7. Auracle by Gina Rosati. So many great reviews and a must-read of 2012, I'll give it a try!
8. For Darkness Shows the Stars by Diana Peterfreund. "Inspired by Jane Austens "Persuasion"" and Dystopian? I'm in!
9. Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo (The Grisha Trilogy #1). I'm  a huge fan of high fantasy and epic, now add YA and it becomes almost a must read!
10. My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick. I yearn to read a good chick lit romance without an overbearing drama. This seems to be an exactly, what I'm looking for!

Sweet Evil - Wendy Higgins (The Sweet Trilogy #1)

*3.5 stars* My emotions after finishing: OK. Done. Next! I liked it. Pretty cover. Nothing more.

Once again I was swayed by all the uber-hype around Sweet Evil.  And I still don't exactly see, why? I really should already know better.Yes, a new turn on all the angel-demon-nephilim is cool and all, but we still need some plot as well, besides an awesome idea.

The Dukes were cool. All high and bossy, treating their Nephilim kids lower than humans. And thats all awesome, for the sake of plot, BUT, that was all. Literally. The world was flattened down due to lack of any emotions. Anna bawling her eyes out and sulking leaves me rather nonplussed. I liked her father as well, but the joyful reunion made me roll my eyes. Really?

At the beginning I liked Anna, the ultimate good girl. In her, good and evil met. Her fathers legacy let her extremely vulnerable to all ind of substances. The story of her developing senses and growing pains sounded for once believable. Her character had so much potential, but still, she came off as emotional, as a 5 year old. It absolutely failed to convey any feelings to me. While reading, I felt as touched as a rock. I lost count how many times she decided to do something and at the next moment already forgot about it. Girl!

And then came Kaidan. I was glued to the book reading the first chapters the met. So much tension, so many possibilities. Gaaah! How did it turn out such a cry fest? At least he managed to downplay all the angst.

Crushed - K.C. Blake (The Witch Game #1)

*4 stars* And yet again, another try at ARR. And a very successful one as well.

A rather different take on ''sisters in magic''. The first though that sprag to mind was a mix between Sabrina and the Charmed sisters. Neither turned out to be even a bit similar. The triplets were impulsive and rather egoistic, treating magic more than a game than something important.Through the novel we wittness them grom up and realise the true value of the gifts they have and each other.

The action in Titan High took off quickly, becoming almost an instant page turner. I really enjoyed the unpredictability of it. After reading all kind of books, it gets harder and harder to be taken by a surprise, but Crushed managed it wonderfully. Already from the beginning it drew me completely in. At times it was cartoonishly funny. Almost anime-like. I so imagined Zach frantically spinning around, trying to find a place to spit the "witch concoction". Haaah!

Main characters are fun and different. How often have you encountered pretty and terrorising triplets in their senior year, of whom two are identical "twins"? Already promising. And it gets better. They're all so different. And the hero. He actually manages to hate the girl pretty successfully, not like other sparkly creatures, I might name. Khmkhm.They did change in the midst of the action and were not as fun or impulsive as at first, but I guess that was kind of the point.

The characters were quick. There was no beating around the bush or wallowing over a painfully obvious truths. They actually managed to act like every other sensible character would. Following them was logical. I enjoyed the interaction between the sisters. All of them had their certain role while dealing with each other. So typical and sweet.

Onyx - Jennifer L. Armentrout (Lux #2)

*4.5* KYAAAAA!!!!!
I can't believe it's already over. Again!! I loved it. I did, I did, I did!

So. Starting from the beginning. Some of you might have noticed my obsession with the Lux series for quite some time already (like seen in Obsidian and waiting-for-Onyx post). The feeling after finally finishing a book I've waited for so passionately is frankly a bit overwhelming. I feel speechless.

Before reading I already noticed people arguing which of the series was better. Both of them were amazing, yet I feel Obsidian was a bit more fresh? I was totally new to the idea of aliens etc, but now I already knew, what to expect. I think it's inevitable and I'm totally okay with it.

It's once again action-packed swoon-worthy  demonstration of Ms Armentrouts amazing skill. I liked how the intonation of the book was so different from the previous one. The action picked up and then slowed down again, all the time reminding the reader, that it's far from being over. Awesome! If they're as amazing as the Lux series, then she just might be my new favourite author ^^

The reason however, why Onyx did not get the perfect 5 from me was just that even though I really loved it, I felt Obsidian wowed me a teeny bit more. And I know I gave Obsidian the same score and now I really feel like I should go back and make it 5. xD

I was also pleased to notice the development in the relationships between characters. For some weird and twisted reason, I even enjoyed Ash. A type I usually despise. And of course, all the other Luxens - Adam and Dee, Matthew! Kya! Even now I can't stop smiling. There are also new characters introduced. I'm not a fan of them, but for the sake of plot, I approve :D And then there's the truckload of sexual tension and banter. You've sure read the teasers we were teased so mercilessly with for such a long time. (If not, check them out NOW!) Now, imagine a whole 376 pages filled in a similar manner. It leaves me gasping for air!

Wednesday Night Dessert #2 - "Real" books, Audiobooks or eBooks?

Another post in my series of Wednesday Night Dessert. WhoopWhoop!

This time I'll be addressing the theme of different formats and platforms for my beloved books. I have heard so many debates about the topic, that I finally wanted to have a say myself!

I think I'll say couple of words about each and then we'll see, which really is the best.

Firstly, there are the good ol' paperbacks (or hardcovers for that matter). You buy them, you have them, no matter what. You can read them anywhere and how many times you want. And I LOVE the classical entertainment value it offers. There's really no feeling quite the same than sitting down with your favorite book and a steaming cup. Really! Best. Feeling. Ever. Sadly, there come the tricky parts.

Books are expensive. As a college student I have a really strict spending policy. Every now and then I still squeeze in a book, but still. Then there are libraries. Another magical place. I honestly could spend a whole day walking from shelf to shelf. But if you live in a non-English speaking country then you know the problem. New releases take ages to be available, a then there's the 2 month long waiting list. Charming. If I have waited a whole year for a release, then there's just not enough force in the world that would make me wait another two months, knowing others enjoy freely. Grr.

There come in the saviors - eBooks. They're a lot cheaper and instantly accessible. You can't fight the logic in that! What makes people dislike them, as I understand it, is the need of an additional equipment, making it hard for the eyes and impossible to concentrate. And I really get it. It took me a year to get accustomed to electronic books. Once in university, all my study materials were suddenly available only in pdfs. I cursed the system and all technology, but kept on reading. And after a while I have to say it became a really convenient and comfortable way to read.

I adjust the font size to my liking, you can choose intesityof the background light and overall customize almost everything to your liking. While reading a real book I especially enjoyed the act of flipping the page. So, I chose an eReader that has an animated page flipping function. Also I can use my phone, laptop or iPad. I love it.

And finally there are the audiobooks. Most infamous of them all, I feel. It's not really a reading now, is it. But imagine a situation where you literally have no time for reading. At some point my every waking second was spent on the run. On my way to the bus, in the bus, running to school, then on to work etc. Riding a bicycle, working in the garden. That's how I discovered audiobooks. There's really nothing more pleasing then using the time, which other way seems wasted, practically!

Daughter of Smoke and Bone - Laini Taylor (Daughter of Smoke and Bone #1)

What can I say? I overcame myself and still wrote a separate review to each of my reads instead of a one huge post I mentioned last time. Sweet.

*2.5 stars* I had to check my own guideline for grading to determine this one. Brr.

What convinced me to pick up this particular book was the huge commotion around it. The synopsis sounded interesting and all the reviews and comments made it out to be just magnificent. I should have known better. There really is just only so much you can hope for with must read books. Although the cover was rather exceptionally well chosen.I definitely gave couple of instant brownie points.

I can't say I didn't like the book. It was readable. Meaning it was interesting enough to keep me going, but just so. I don't even know, what exactly I expected, something to blow me away maybe? :D It took me almost three months to finish. But nonetheless. I think a huge part of the problem for me was the absurd amount of unnecessary flashbacks. I feel that if the story had stuck with just the story of Akiva and Karou, it would have been a lot more easy going and interesting!

The concept of the whole book sounded really alluring so I'm  not sure, where Ms Taylor went wrong. By general understanding, it really should be amazing. Awesome characters, beautiful surroundings. How on Earth did it end up like any other supernatural mediocre YA novel?

The plot was so obvious. At times, painfully so. The huge reveal left me rather nonplussed and it should not be so. It has happened before, that in overall a very good book has a bit slower start, but in time the whole action swallows the reader in. So I kept waiting and waiting for the climax. And then I waited some more. I even kept waiting after finishing the book. Maybe it was just my amazingly slow brain. Now I've inclined to think it was more than just me. I really was boring. Also, constant shift between characters and POVs tends to be rather more confusing, than explaining. I see the need to introduce each character with their history, but that was just spelling out the obvious. Really!

Another update: I'm alive afterall!

Hello hello hello! Yes. I'm glad to let you know I'm not dead, I have just been hibernating, like I like to call it. (How not-so-surprising it has been to notice a ton of posts with similar headline.) My wonderful reading summer has passed with three almost finished books. Rather pathetic, if I may say so myself, but I guess my brain needed a rest from all the super-awesome adventure-filled time consuming YA books. I'm still a huge nerd and been collecting ebooks to my e-library, knowing, that once the peaceful summer is over and the sudden shock of "real" life hits me again,I'll be in a desperate need of distraction. Last two months just laying in the sun, sleeping, watching movies and eating good food was just a build up for the upcoming season.

However, I haven't been absolutely useless xD I have a horrifying number of unfinished reviews and posts on topics I probably will never complete. So what I though I'd do is that in near future, I repeat near future, like in a week or so I'll combine them all in a huge post :D So yeah, here you go. My entirely useless summer might not be so useless after all.

And another completely acceptable explanation to my slacking off is the publishing date of Onyx by Jennifer L. Armentrout!!! I just could not make myself concentrate knowing that soon there was going to be a new hot piece of alien to chew! And now it's upon us! I'm almost afraid to read the book I've been ridiculously obsessed with for the past half a year. I'm so close to finally getting it and once I've finished, there's NO doubt you'll miss it.

I also decided to pick up the famous Game of Thrones, knowing it might be the next couple of decades until the two last books are released... and this far (73%) I have to say I love it. I love the world, the characters, even the show! But I'll try to keep my rambling to minimum. For now. Mwhahahaa. So in a nutshell, here you have my summer. Yay! Let me know how yours was. A bit more productive I hope? See you soon my lovelies ^^

Liebster Blog Award

I've been nominated for the Liebster Blog Award not only once, but TWICE, first by Pam and then by Jay Jason! I can't put it in words how happy it makes me and just how awesome you, my dear readers are! However, I only have time to answer one set of questions and Pam was the first, so I answered hers! Hope you enjoy! ^^

Here are the rules:

1. Each person must post 11 facts about themselves.

2. Answer 11 questions the tagger has given you and give 11 questions for the person you tag. 

3. Choose 11 people and link them to your post.

4. Tell them you've tagged them.

5. Remember, no tag backs.

So here we go!

Propheticus Blog Tour

Author Emma Daley has stopped by today with a teaser for the Propheticus Blog Tour and I'm really proud to a part of of it today! Thank you all for stopping by! 

I replayed the events of the day, and stopped on the image of the crystal blue waters of the Oceania waterfalls. I felt my body calm as I pictured the luscious pools, and tried to for­get that there was such a place as Mountiana. I caught myself thinking of the incredible stories I had heard, and most sig­nificantly, the beautiful copper color of Novell’s dark eyes, his captivating smile, and the brilliant teeth that had my attention throughout his story of Oceania. 

Then there were those lips that seemed to take over my thoughts as he spoke. My head grew light with contentment as I drifted off and found myself dreaming of Novell; his eyes lit brightly and shaded with the dark copper that glowed in the light of the fulsome moon. I lay beside him in my mind, our arms tucked naturally behind our heads, comfortably bracing us from the cold stone rocks on the beaches of the Coola Waterfalls. After a moment of star­ing into the star-covered sky, my dream continued. We got up and started laughing and playing in the water with the other tribe members. 

At one point, I nearly fell into the water but Novell’s arms wrapped around my waist before I could and he pulled me close. In the shallow pool of the waterfalls, I rev­eled in the image, taking in the closeness of his face, letting myself stare deeply into those merciless eyes without shame. But as Novell held me and our bodies grew closer, something in the air seemed to stir suddenly. Out of the cool night air, a dark cloud appeared, covering the entire blue of the Oceania skies. 

Leopard Moon - Jeanette Battista (Moon #1)

Another try for ARR. This time I had a chance to review the Leopard Moon. 

*4 stars * It took me two days to finish. It was compelling and fun, but at times a bit too dragging. A little too much time was spent on various descriptions or just characters wandering and thinking aloud.

From the first chapter on the book looked really promising. The author took time to introduce the characters. It really helped me to get into the story. We are introduced Kess, a were-leopard, who for the past year and half has been running from her family. Or more specifically, her brother. Sek was a wonderful villain. He was so obsessed with his ideas, he ceased to believe in everything else. It was almost sad. There really was no chance for him. For some reason I enjoyed seeing him combine his almost child-like belief and calculating clan-leader moves.

I've read plenty of other shapeshifter stories, but I've never run across were-leopards or were-bears for example.The tension between species and were wars were a refreshing change for a werewolf VS a vampire.

The wolves were sweet. Even though each and every one of them seemed to be huge and hot and perfect. They were so carefree, fooling around and keeping together. Like a wolf-pack. Almost the exact opposite to Kess's feline family. I really like that the author decided to play on the polar differences and preferences of cats and "dogs".

I was so glad, that for once there was no love triangle. I've almost tarted to think, that a good romance needs a condemned third wheel. The romance was clean and simple. Both had tried dating, but hadn't clicked well with anyone yet. It wasn't a marriage at first sight. It seemed natural, not forced. Finn with his inability to stay away from females and his special restrictions in the Barn made it hilarious. Big hugs to Finn. He's such a sweetheart.

The telling point was also done well. It shifted between different characters, yet always staying in third-persons view. I've recently run across only first-person stories. This book made me discover, I actually prefer that type of narrative. First person view might help you to better identify with the heroine, but the third person made the whole story flow more easily.I'm tired of endless inner monologues on theme "should I leave or should I stay?" 

Monday Morning Wishes #1

Mondays are the days I let you all know about a book I just can't wait to get my hands on! For the first of such Monday I chose a book, I'm dying to read. When the publishing date was moved forward I all but fell on my knees, yelling, "Whyyyy, Oh Whyy!?" Of course it's Onyx, from the Lux series by Jennifer L. Armentrout, with the expected publication date of August 14th. Just because who doesn't like the smokin' hot aliens? Even if I didn't before, I sure do now!

You can read my review of Obsidian here, I loved it to pieces. And now, when you've remembered all the reasons you loved it, you can take a sneak peak at the teasers Mrs Armentrout has generously posted on her site.

"You okay with all of this?" I whispered to Daemon.
He shrugged. "Not like I can stop her."
I knew he could if he wanted, which meant he didn't have a problem with it.
"Cookie?" he offered, holding a cookie full of chocolate chips.
Upset tummy or not, there was no way I could refuse that. "Sure."
His lips tipped up one side and he leaned toward me, his mouth inches from mine. "Come and get it."
Come and get...? Daemon placed half the cookie between those full, totally kissable lips.
Oh, holy alien babies everywhere...

Believe - E. Leighanne Grimm-Weever (New England Immortals #1)

Hooray! My very first try at ARR (Author-Requesting-Review) Program - a chance to receive a copy of a new book in exchange of an honest review. I'm really excited and thankful for the opportunity! Also, a huge thank you for the author E. for providing me with a copy!

*3 stars* (Grading the book was really difficult. The quality of the books VS how much I enjoyed it = 2/4. So I decided to compromise.)

Before I even start I have to get one stone off my chest. I don't like the cover. I'm sorry, but I don't. There are so many ways of editing a picture and this is not one of them. What's with the wings? Without them and the not-so-well-done editing it already would've been a lot better. A serious error also lies with the title. It's almost unnoticeable and unreadable. I imagine the most important part of the cover should also be one of the first things to notice. But enough of this. On with the review.

The first thing I noticed while reading was the writing style. I'd advise to at least have the book read couple of times before publishing. The faulty grammar, messy sentences and frequent spelling mistakes made it really hard to follow.

Waiting for the book to get better, is kind of dangerous. It always needs extra effort, trying to read something you're not instantly attracted to. In this case, the patience paid off. The first 2 chapters scared me pretty bad. As often with new authors, the start was rather rocky. Overuse of metaphors and adjectives made the sentences stiff and unnatural. Sentences, like I chuckled to myself, because I like to laugh, so I chuckled at the thought of laughing. It's a big NoNo. One Doesn't chuckle at themselves! I feel the book would do so much better, if it had gone through editing.

Andreas stuttering throughout half of the book over Uncle Gregs horror stories and paranoia quickly grew tiring and distracting.  Half-finished sentences and repeating words is not a way to let the readers know when the character is constantly thinking of something.

The beginning is pretty cliche, the mysterious stranger who has been haunting your dreams for awhile, suddenly pops up, showing uncomfortably strong interest in your character and saves the day. However, I loved Andreas reaction to it all. "Why in the world did he do that? I’m not completely helpless," gotcha. Finally a girl, who doesn't find stalking strangers attractive.