Origin - Jessica Khoury

*4.5 stars* 


For a longest time, the book sat in my To-Be-Read shelf and finally out of boredom I decided to pick it up. And what a book it was! I so did not expect what the experience turned out to be.

I don't like calling books perfect, after all 'Perfect is as Perfect Does'. There is no such thing as perfect, as Pia learned the hard way, but this was pretty close call. It had wild speculations on future-that-could-be, the role of morality and our inner selves, of growing up and disappointment, and moreover, the inner purity and goodness that cannot be suppressed. The surroundings was well built and lively, the peace set well, not once did  have a feeling of growing tired. The characters were human, meaning life-like, not all-good.

We meet 17 year old Pia, who her whole life has spent in Little Cam, a hidden science camp in the middle of Amazon. As a result of decades of experiments Pia has reached the highest level oh human evolution, perfection, immortality. A girl, who with her perfect memory has grown up reading about genetics and solving math problems, has no connections to the outside world. But with new faces in the tightly guarded camp and coincidences, Pias whole world is turned upside down.

I loved how Pia was struggling with the question of immortality, morality and the biggest question of all, what does it mean to be a human? It felt real, seeing her dreams and understandings changing with her. The characters were well established, and I could follow the mental struggles between what you have known your whole life to be true and that little voice inside whispering there has to be more. We see the cold-blooded scientist ready for everything in the name of science. How it destroys lives or creates lives.

And I just couldn't pass on commenting the awesomeness that were the natives. I might be over-romanticizing the 'noble savage', but as a vivid admirer or anthropology, I have a soft spot for the "traditional" people. I do think it describes well our society, when so much could be saved by accepting the simple truths that have been known for the natives for generations. But it is degrading for a highly educated scientist to take the local myths and stories as truth. So, somehow it becomes widely accepted for the name of science doing things that in other contexts might be completely unheard of. Again. Where do you draw the line? Just how far can you push the limits in the name of a greater good?

In conclusion, this book touched me, assuring that once again there IS hope for the future, even if it happens to be fictional assurance - we don't need colorful explosions, violent passion or loud music and alcohol for a book to be good.

Daddy-Long-Legs - Jean Webster (Daddy-Long-Legs #1)

Wow, it has been a while. I have noticed my reading frenzies come in bursts. There are months when I spend virtually every minute awake glued to books (actually mostly to my laptops screen but the idea remains same) and then there are months I don't feel like picking up a book at all. Last three or four months have been like this for me. I have about 5 books I have started, and I will finish them, it's just, I don't feel the need to inhale hundreds of pages a day. I'm sure, the days of frenzy will return, but right now I'm just enjoying leisurely reading a chapter or two a day.

*3.5 stars*

Which leads me to an actual review, I know, I have almost forgotten how to write one, but here we go. Yesterday I stumbled upon this sweet book  of coming of age. It was my first epistolary novel, meaning the plot was completely conveyed through letters. And I loved it. It was very easy to read, I would even call it a page turner. Through the novel we follow 4 years of college life of Jerusha Abbott. Growing up and having spent all her 17 years in orphanage she is bewildered to find out that she has been picked out to receive anonymous donations from one of the orphanages beneficiaries. She starts addressing the man as a Daddy Long Legs, after a long legged shadow she once witnessed him cast from afar.

The plot is delivered to us through the eyes and letters of a teenage girl, first discovering the world and people she had no idea existed outside from her little bubble. It gives off a sense of "trueness". Even through written a hundred years ago, I can still relate to Judy. Her bubbly personality, urge to please her dear Daddy Long Legs and shine in her academic life mixed up with undeniable girly vanity of someone who grew up having nothing make Jerusha into a real girl. And even though the ways of life have changed drastically since then, it still stays charming for a modern mind.

Yet, hardly any book comes without flaws. Daddy Long Legs might just have as much good as there is of that, what made me cringe. The reason I gave it 3.5* is just that it could have been so much more.

Some slight spoilers ahead!

For a starter... calling your anonymous beneficiary slash romantic interest Daddy through a whole book, is slightly disconcerting... yet I can see how a girl might develop fatherly feelings for an imaginative figure who also is her only friend/family outside the college. Yet, neither of them should seem so comfortable with it. I really hope she isn't going to continue her letter to her loved one, starting them with "Dear Daddy!" Ugh! However, a much bigger problem for me lies in the end of the book.

When you find out the person you have become to think of as a father or family at least, and a man you have strong romantic feelings for turn out to be the same - ... A girl would be upset! Really. Especially one with Judys character. I just don't see her happily accepting it without a blink and just falling into his waiting arms. And then continuing sending letters to him in the same way! I just... can't.

End of the "spoilery" part :)

I also wish we could see at least some of the story through someone else... inevitably it stayed a bit too one dimensional. But I guess this must be the charm of the epistolary style. 

Overall. There were just so many issues with this book and the last chapters managed to tear everything even more apart, BUT the majority of the book was still enjoyable. Judy was a great character and watching her grow up and making her way in the world was very satisfactory. I do dare to recommend this book, just... don't expect the romance to blow you away, more then anything it's a coming of age story of a bright girl.

The book actually has a sequel called Dear Enemy, and even though I loved the first installment enough, I'm not sure I will be picking it up anytime soon.

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.

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.

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!

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 :)

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!

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!

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?" 

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.

Reason to Breathe - Rebecca Donovan (The Breathing #1)

*3.5 stars*

Before I start I think a brief warning is in order. I write my reviews almost simultaneously while reading. The following review is long and consists of a lot on contradicting sentences and incoherent thougths I experienced while reading this piece of writing. Also might contain mild spoilers!

I decided to pick up The Reason to Breathe to have a rest from all the fairies, vampires and unfairly hot aliens and bring myself back to harsh reality. The theme of domestic violence and abuse is painful, but strangely compelling as well. Maybe I need a dose of human cruelty every once in a while not to lose my own sense of reality?

I have to say I wasn't overly impressed by the beginning.It got better after first 5 rather awkward chapters, but still, the characters stayed too one dimensional to generate any deeper emotions or totally flow with the story. I hate to say it, but it did give me a very fanfictionisque vibe. At times there was ridiculously long description of scenery,  houses, decoration, different sports you name it. It only made concentrating on the action that much harder. Then at times we flew over some parts with only couple of sentences. It felt unbalanced. I would have liked more interaction or even a closer understanding of the characters. We actually didn't get to know them at all! A little explanation behind their motives would've been nice.

he author gave us no reasoning behind Emma's abuse. Simply stating that her uncle and aunt hated her wasn't enough. It made the whole part feel a bit fabricated. I didn't feel Emma's pain. Abuse is horrible and destructing, twisting the persons on both, the delivering and receiving end. I didn't feel it.  AND I can't believe, the only thing that kept her from exposing her horrible relatives was the excuse of her niece and nephew. Huh? I get you might love them with all your heart, as they're the only sunshine in your depressive family, yada-yada. Such constant emotional and physical violence can not be directed only at one point. Sooner or later the hate will consume her. And then what? Letting the kids watch their Mom turn into a psychopath. Grr. I don't understand Emily at all.  

The Iron Queen - Julie Kagawa (The Iron Fey #3)

*5 stars* ♥

The third book in The Iron Fey series starts better than any previous! Or maybe because of already familiar universe, but I was instantly drawn into the battle between the Fey worlds.

Back are all our old friends and many new faces as well. Grimalkin is still the same, constantly disappearing know-it-all. He's such a cat. Gremlins, especially Razor, were awfully sweet as well, calling Meghan Master and all. So trusting and self-sacrificing, almost like little electronic dogs. 

As it appears, our dear Ash does have a possessive streak. And I think it's great! The chemistry between them was half the fun for me. It brings so much more life into the action. Ash was amazing. His emotions made me really feel his character. His pain and depth. At times the next move was rather obvious, but could you blame him? His feelings were so fragile. He's such a darling!

As always Puck was cool as well but I don't understand the big commotion around his character. His chipper attitude seems to suffer from a pretty blunt refusal, with what ironically he's stuck. Peevish and sneaky, but nowhere near stealing the spotlight.Oh well. He very much reminded me of Peter Pan, with his boyish character and desire never to grow up.

General Blog Update! + The Iron Daughter - Julie Kagawa (Iron Fey #2)

Happy Monday!
I'm finally starting to know my way around in the huge world of book bloggers. It's awesome! I've also picked up some designing tips and gave my blog a new face. I'm really happy with the outcome!
Exams are nearing, oh no! Sadly that means even less time for books. I only get to read couple of chapters a day. And because of that I've decided to abandon my long-time policy of not doing reviews on series! That way I can celebrate every read book :) Also please do continue being awesome and let me know your thoughts! I appreciate each and every one!

*5 stars*

The second book in the Iron Fey series surprised me pleasantly! I loved this book so much more! I guess the time needed to truly get into the series finally paid off! At times the storyline seemed a bit cliché, but somehow I still managed to understand her feelings. I enjoyed watching Meghan grow "an iron backbone" - both, she and Ash grew up so much!

It picked off right where the Winter Passage left off. (If you haven't read the 60-something page novella you didn't miss out anything crucial, but I do recommend it! It showed us extra scenes of developing feelings, thus setting up a base for a smooth transition. And it was just sweet mush at times, just what I needed!)
Seeing Meghan go through some misery and pain as well for a change of only happy-go-lucky was much needed. Nothing forces us to mature quicker than a broken heart. 

However, what seriously got on my nerves was the same-old same-old Noble-Idiot syndrome. I understand we can't jump right to the happy ending, I really do! But stretching pointlessly the unnecessary tension and then suddenly abandoning all the previous objections. *sigh* A creature as old as Ash should already know better.