Review: Sentinel by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Sentinel (Covenant #5) by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Publication Date: November 2, 2013
Publisher: Spencer Hill Press
Number of Pages: 297
Format: Paperback
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It's a beautiful day for a war.

As the mortal world slowly slips into chaos of the godly kind, Alexandria Andros must overcome a stunning defeat that has left her shaken and in doubt of their ability to end this war once and for all.

And with all the obstacles between Alex and her happily-ever-after with the swoonworthy Aiden St. Delphi, they must now trust a deadly foe as they travel deep into the Underworld to release one of the most dangerous gods of all time.

In the stunning, action-packed climax to the bestselling Covenant series, Alex must face a terrible choice: the destruction of everything and everyone she holds dear… or the end of herself.

All I have to say is thank god the series is over. The books in the middle I loved, but the first book and these last two books? Not so much. I only read this since it was the end of the series, and I was curious about Seth. This will probably be a short review since I don't want to spoil anything.

I ended up skimming through a lot of the book. I just couldn't bring myself to actually read a lot of the scenes, especially the Alex and Aiden ones. They are just so boring. From the moment I started reading I just wanted to bang my head against something hard. There was a situation in the beginning of the book that almost made me put down the put and not continue. It was really unnecessary, especially in an YA book. Also, there's way too much pop culture references in this series. Don't get me wrong, I love references but there's a right and wrong way to do them. This series is filled with them, and in 10 years if someone picked up this series and read it, they would be like wtf is this. I prefer books/series that make references without actually naming them. Not to mention the term cray-cray was actually used. Come on, really? Yes that term is hot right now, but it's a fad.

I wasn't even impressed when Seth first came into the book. I get it, to redeem him he had to act a little ooc. But I was so glad when Seth went back to the one we grew to love. But what really saved the book, or at least made it bearable was when Apollo showed up.  He's by far, my favorite character in the book.

The book itself, wasn't all that bad. It was decent. The ending was a bit of a surprised though. And it actually made me want to cry. But the twist of events, well I knew it was coming how it all ended.

I still believe this series, especially the first book is a rip off of Vampire Academy. I'm sorry but I don't believe it's a coincidence, and she's never read VA, there's too much similarities.  I want to like this author, but this series made it so hard. Although I have a few of her other books on my tbr list, I'm not sure if I want to read them.

Rating: 2/5

 

Review: Apollyon by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Apollyon (Covenant #4) by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Publication Date: April 4, 2013
Publisher: Spencer Hill Press
Number of Pages: 343
Format: Paperback
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Fate isn’t something to mess with… and now, neither is Alex.

Alex has always feared two things: losing herself in the Awakening and being placed on the Elixir. But love has always been stronger than Fate, and Aiden St. Delphi is willing to make war on the gods—and Alex herself—to bring her back.

The gods have killed thousands and could destroy entire cities in their quest to stop Seth from taking Alex’s power and becoming the all-powerful God Killer. But breaking Alex’s connection to Seth isn’t the only problem. There are a few pesky little loopholes in the whole “an Apollyon can’t be killed” theory, and the only person who might know how to stop the destruction has been dead for centuries.

Finding their way past the barriers that guard the Underworld, searching for one soul among countless millions, and then somehow returning will be hard enough. Alex might be able to keep Seth from becoming the God Killer… or she might become the God Killer herself.

 From the last book I pretty much stopped shipping Alex and Seth. I recognized that her heart will always belong to Aiden, BUT I just can't like him. Even so I had high hopes for this book. But if left me feeling disappointed. It took me almost a week to read this book. I just couldn't get into it, and I would go days without even reading or even remember I was reading it. Even though I'm Team Seth, while Alex was under the influence of the bond, I hated how she referred to him as "my Seth". It made it sound like he owned her. Which that is another thing that bugged me, the bond. Earlier books made it seem like the bond was this powerful thing and almost impossible to break. But Alex remembering her love for Aiden broke it no problem. I guess the message was that their love is more powerful than the bond? I was hoping we would get to see Alex and Seth together before she broke the bond.

Speaking of Seth, we barely saw him in the book. We saw conversations between him and Alex through their connection, and there was a scene where he was able to pull her into his subconscious. I'm still holding on to some hope that he can be redeemed. Like Alex has realized he just wants to be accepted and loved and he's drunk on power. Another question arosed in this book about Seth. Alex and every other Apollyon eye's turned amber once they awakened, but Seth was born with amber eyes, the eyes of the Apollyon. Why?

The first half of the book was very slow, but if you love Aiden/Alex then you will probably love it. It was too much for me. I guess not enough action. I ended up skimming through a lot of it. I was ready to give up on the book, but the second half really picked up the pace and had me interested again. Alex travels back to the Underworld to seek out Solaris. There she finds out the secret to stopping Seth. But if seems impossible, she must transfer his power to herself and become the God Killer instead of Seth.

 We finally find out what god is responsible for Seth and behind the destruction. Honestly I wanted to slap Alex for not realizing it sooner.  I swear these books needs to have more of the gods in them, especially Apollo. I loved at the end when Apollo tells Alex a story behind one of his sons and tell hers the moral of the story is he always finds a way to take care of his own. I swear if Alex wasn't a descendant from him I would so ship Alex and Apollo.

Overall this book was blah to me. Not sure why I didn't noticed it till now but there are tons and tons of pop culture references in this series. Which I do find neat and usually enjoy. But what about ten years down the road? It's not going to appeal to those who pick the book up then. I did enjoy one that I'm pretty sure is a reference to the author's LUX series (which is on my tbr list and dying to start). I'm glad there's only one more book in the series. With how this book turned out, I'm not sure I could take much more. I'm curious how things will be wrapped up.

Rating: 2.5/5

 

Review: The Goddess Inheritance (Goddess Test, #3) by Aimee Carter

The Goddess Inheritance (Goddess Test, #3) by Aimee Carter
Publisher: Harlequin Teen Australia
Publication date: March 1st, 2013
Number of pages: 283 pgs
Format: Paperback
Purchase: Amazon | The Book Depository | Bookworld Australia

During nine months of captivity, Kate Winters has survived a jealous goddess, a vengeful Titan and a pregnancy she never asked for. Now the Queen of the Gods wants her unborn child, and Kate can't stop her — until Cronus offers a deal.

In exchange for her loyalty and devotion, the King of the Titans will spare humanity and let Kate keep her child. Yet even if Kate agrees, he'll destroy Henry, her mother and the rest of council. And if she refuses, Cronus will tear the world apart until every last god and mortal is dead.

With the fate of everyone she loves resting on her shoulders, Kate must do the impossible: find a way to defeat the most powerful being in existence, even if it costs her everything.

Even if it costs her eternity…

It was so sad to see the end to this series. I admit, I've never expected to adore this series as much as I have. I was very unsure about the first book, but by the end of it, I was won over.  While it did a little time in making my brain click on who was who in terms of the Gods and matching them with the characters, but by the second book, I was pretty up to date on that kind of thing.

Kate has had the most agonising, confusing and life-changing journey than any character I have ever read in a while. She is someone whose life has changed dramatically without her having any say in it. But it's also one she wouldn't change for a minute.
The connection she has formed with this new group of people she has come to love as her own family, she couldn't have anticipated before. But they are not connections she would have wished would disappear.

While Kate and Henry are clearly who the story is about, but characters such as James, Ava, Calliope etc are all people who play a major part in this story and you could not have wanted it any other way.
All of these lives are equally important; not only to Kate and her life, but also to the story at hand. Each play an important part, and have their own story.

This is the final conclusion to this trilogy, and we find Kate, having discovered she is pregnant with Henry's child, in captivity with Cronus and Calliope. Kate soon discovers just why they want her child, and what they plan on doing, not only to her and the child, but also the world. Kate will have to make a life-changing choice that will affect her in ways she could never have imagined. Having someone to choose between your child and the whole of humanity.  When Cronus suddenly offers Kate a deal, she has no choice but to accept his terms, even though she doesn't have much choice in the matter....

Meanwhile, Henry and the gang soon hatch a plan, but will they get to Kate in time, or will time run out before they can save the day and everyone can get what they want?  Will good win over evil, or will hell raise over humanity?

This was one hell of a end, and I loved every moment of it. While I loved this entire series, this may be the book that had the most action, the most dramatic and emotional impact.  Over all, a great ending to this series.

Rating: 4.5/5

Review: Apollyon (Covenant #4) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Apollyon (Covenant #4) by Jennifer L.Armentrout
Publisher: Spencer Hill Press
Publication date: April 4th, 2013
Number of pages: 343 pgs
Format: E-format
Purchase: Amazon | The Book Depository

Fate isn’t something to mess with… and now, neither is Alex.

Alex has always feared two things: losing herself in the Awakening and being placed on the Elixir. But love has always been stronger than Fate, and Aiden St. Delphi is willing to make war on the gods—and Alex herself—to bring her back.

The gods have killed thousands and could destroy entire cities in their quest to stop Seth from taking Alex’s power and becoming the all-powerful God Killer. But breaking Alex’s connection to Seth isn’t the only problem. There are a few pesky little loopholes in the whole “an Apollyon can’t be killed” theory, and the only person who might know how to stop the destruction has been dead for centuries.

Finding their way past the barriers that guard the Underworld, searching for one soul among countless millions, and then somehow returning will be hard enough. Alex might be able to keep Seth from becoming the God Killer… or she might become the God Killer herself.

From the moment we were left with that agonizing cliffhanger in Deity, I have been itching to find what was coming next. The novella, Elxir did provide a little comfort and gave me hope for the future, but of course, I wanted more.
Jennifer L.Armentrout has proved time and time again the ability to deliver in her stories, characters and world-building, but in the second to last book of this heart-thumping series comes so many twists and turns you won't see coming. It will leave you hanging after each single page.

When we return with Apollyon, we have Alex who is now off the Elixir, but still connected to Seth via the bond.  It started to get annoying after a while as she called him "Her Seth" it was like.. you know, she was sired or something /crackjoke.
But as the story progressed throughout the book, Alex soon was able to break the bond and return to her former self, thank goodness. I'm not sure how much I could  take with the way she was being. And there was so many other important things she had to do.
Now that Alex is one of two Apollyon's, her concerns start to be focused on what happens when Seth gets his hands on her and possibly then turning into a God Killer. The thoughts and ideas are so unimaginable to think about. They just better hope that does not happen, because if it does... then God help them all.

While we do see Seth here and there, more than in the previous one that is for sure. In feel there is still some hope that he can be saved. Whether or not that is true remains to be seen, and I am sure will be discussed in the final book in this series coming later in the year.
But the romance between Alex and Aiden goes form strength to strength. There is nothing he wouldn't do for her, and I love how much they have gone through and come out stronger on the other side. I knew from the beginning these two would be a love like no other. It would be tested and tried, but usually those kinds of romances come out on top by the end.

I'm counting down the days until Sentinel is released. I can't wait to see how everything all ends for this story.

Rating: 4.5/5

Review: Everbound by Brodi Ashton

Everbound (Everneath #2) by Brodi Ashton
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Publication date: February 14th, 2013
Number of pages: 368
Format: Paperback
Purchase: Amazon | The Book Depository

Nikki Beckett could only watch as her boyfriend, Jack, sacrificed himself to save her, taking her place in the Tunnels of the Everneath for eternity — a debt that should’ve been hers. She’s living a borrowed life, and she doesn’t know what to do with the guilt. And every night Jack appears in her dreams, lost and confused and wasting away.

Desperate for answers, Nikki turns to Cole, the immortal bad boy who wants to make her his queen — and the one person least likely to help. But his heart has been touched by everything about Nikki, and he agrees to assist her in the only way he can: by taking her to the Everneath himself.

Nikki and Cole descend into the Everneath, only to discover that their journey will be more difficult than they’d anticipated — and more deadly. But Nikki vows to stop at nothing to save Jack — even if it means making an incredible sacrifice of her own.

Nikki Beckett has been to hell and back, literally. She has loved and lost. This time it's the love of her life, Jack who is now trapped in Hell, aka The Eveneath and she will do whatever possible to get him back.

The cliffhanger to Brodi Ashton's 'Everneath' was one of the most talked about endings to a debut book I have seen in a while. The true meaning of sacrifice. The true meaning of love. There isn't anything these two teenagers would not do for one another, and during the course of this novel, Everbound -- that is true more than ever.
The story picks up not too soon after the end of Everneath, as Nikki gets questioned about the whereabouts to where Jack could be since she was the last person to ever see or hear from him last. Nobody knows the full story, except Cole, Nikki and Jack's brother.
Nikki begins to understand that the only way for her to get Jack back is to gain the help of Cole. He would be the last person she would turn to, but since he is an everliving, he seems to be the only one that could and would help her.

As Cole and Nikki descend into the Everneath, Nikki has to hold onto her dreams of Jack as that seems to be the only thing keeping him alive, and the closer she gets to Jack, she starts to fear that she might be too late.

I felt the love triangle in Everbound was tolerable, but that was until the end... until certain things were revealed that made me hate Cole yet again.
During a good portion of the book, I begun to think that Cole wasn't such a bad guy... that he might love Nikki, but now I just see it as obsession. I have been Team Jack since the beginning of the prologue in Everneath, and my stance on that has not changed one bit.
I have felt since the start one clear winner in this triangle, where one pairing stands out more than the other. I don't believe that a triangle has to be on equal footing to be classified as one, as always in these sort of situations that's clearly the case.

Cole really disapppointed me. I really had some hopes he would change and be someone respectable. To be someone I could understand, and that started out... but then, of course his true motives came through and I was disgusted once more.
Jack. Even though we don't see much of him.. we do see flashbacks and dreams where we understand more about their past, which was nice to see.

We also have a cliffhanger that makes you want to pull out your hair, but it also it gives you hope and understanding on where the final book might take us.

Brodi goes beyond expectations. She has built up this world of Greek mythology, and goes further than one thought possible.
I can't wait until the final book in this compelling trilogy comes to a head.

5 Stars

Review: Half Blood by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Half Blood (Covenant #1) by Jennifer.L.Armentrout
Publisher: Spencer Hill Press
Publication date: October 18th, 2011
Number of pages: 281
Format: Kindle
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The Hematoi descend from the unions of gods and mortals, and the children of two Hematoi-pure-bloods-have godlike powers. Children of Hematoi and mortals-well, not so much. Half-bloods only have two options: become trained Sentinels who hunt and kill daimons or become servants in the homes of the pures. Seventeen-year-old Alexandria would rather risk her life fighting than waste it scrubbing toilets, but she may end up slumming it anyway. There are several rules that students at the Covenant must follow. Alex has problems with them all, but especially rule #1:Relationships between pures and halfs are forbidden. Unfortunately, she's crushing hard on the totally hot pure-blood Aiden. But falling for Aiden isn't her biggest problem--staying alive long enough to graduate the Covenant and become a Sentinel is. If she fails in her duty, she faces a future worse than death or slavery: being turned into a daimon, and being hunted by Aiden. And that would kind of suck.

While this book sounds a lot like Richelle Mead's "Vampire Academy," and trust me, the signs were definitely there,but if you look deeper you can see it's a whole different story, damned the similarities between the series.

We are introduced to Alex, who is a half blood. After being on the run and the death of her mother, she is discovered and gets sent back to the academy she attended before her mother took her away.
Alex is a great protagonist. She is  strong, independant, and goes where her heart takes her, even if her heart is telling her something that is so impossible.
We also have the love interest, Aiden. A total hottie, who will make you swoon at anything he says. It's not just on the surface. He has hidden sadness behind those beautiful eyes and smile.
Then we have Seth. He is someone unexpected, and you'll be thrown through a loop when it is revealed as to the connection he has with Alex, and then... we have a triangle formed. Both boys have their moments, and loveable things about them, but me... I have been Team Aiden since his very first scene with Alex.  And when I start to love a couple.. there is no going back, and I have a feeling.. with Aiden and Alex, the road is going to be long and hard.

We have shocks and surprises. Things even I didn't see coming. There is lots of things to love about this book. From the relationships to the friendships. The mythology is also something to be really intrigued about.

I'm sure this is the beginning of a great journey for these characters. I look forward to learning more about the whole plot.
A great first installment.

Verdict: 3.5/5

Review: Deity by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Deity (Covenant #3)
Jennifer L. Armentrout
Publisher: Spencer Hill Press
Publication date: November 6th, 2012
Number of pages: 330
Format: E-book
Purchase: Amazon | The Book Depository
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"History is on repeat, and things didn't go so well the last time. "


Alexandria isn't sure she's going to make it to her eighteenth birthday--to her Awakening. A long-forgotten, fanatical order is out to kill her, and if the Council ever discovers what she did in the Catskills, she's a goner... and so is Aiden.

If that's not freaky enough, whenever Alex and Seth spend time "training"--which really is just Seth's code word for some up-close and personal one-on-one time--she ends up with another mark of the Apollyon, which brings her one step closer to Awakening ahead of schedule. Awesome.

But as her birthday draws near, her entire world shatters with a startling revelation and she's caught between love and Fate. One will do anything to protect her. One has been lying to her since the beginning. Once the gods have revealed themselves, unleashing their wrath, lives will be irrevocably changed... and destroyed.

Those left standing will discover if love is truly greater than Fate...

The third book in this amazing series only just gets better as it goes along. Alex's 18th birthday is coming up and we know what that means: Her awakening, and that is something I am not sure she is ready for.

This book solidfied the two core relationships I felt. Alex and Aiden and Alex and Seth. One for the better and one for the worse. You probably can guess which is which. But these things happen.
The relationship between Alex and  Aiden I have loved, shipped, supported from the very first book, but they have had their ups and downs considering the reality of their situation. In this book things become very real and they are forced to make a very bold choice. Do they follow their hearts, or do they follow the rules, which shouldn't be put there to begin with?

There are all sorts of twists and turns that transpire in this book. From who Leon really is, the truth about Alex's father and what that could mean for her and what happens the closer she gets to her awakening. What does that mean for her and Seth, and her in general?
There are of course some betrayals that you might not see coming, and end up being quite heartbreaking.

All in all, this book goes down a new path that sets the series on its own and makes anything that comes next bigger and badder than you ever thought possible.

And then we are stuck with dreaded cliffhanger, and it is such a biggie. To also bridge the gap between this book and the next we are then treated to a special novella narrated by Aiden about the events that transpire after the ending to Deity. Be a watchout for that review.

Verdict: 5/5

Review: Elixir by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Elixir (Covenant #3.5) by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Publication Date: November 27, 2012
Publisher: Spencer Hill Press
Number of Pages: 80
Format: E-book
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Aiden St. Delphi will do anything to save Alex.
Even if it means doing the one thing he will never forgive himself for.
Even if it means making war against the gods.

I'll be honest. I skimmed and skipped sections in this short story. Maybe because it was in Aiden's POV, and I'm not his biggest fan. The story is set a few days after the end of Deity. Alex has Awakened, and she's not the same anymore. Seth has connected with her and any trace of her former self is gone.

Apollo has come up with a solution to temporary break the connection to Seth. They can give Alex an Elixir similiar to the ones that the half servants are given, but this one will work on Alex with being the Apollyon. At first everyone refuses. Being on the Elixir is one of Alex's biggest fears. But soon they realized that the only way for her to survive while they search for a permanent way to break the connection is for her to be on the Elixir. 

What I don't understand is why did it have to be Aiden to give her the potion and be her "master". It didn't set well with me. I do wish we saw more of the other characters. I loved seeing Apollo's brother. I'm assuming that this novella will make the fourth book make more sense. But you will probably only enjoy it if you love Aiden.

In the end, Aiden realizes that love is bigger than fate. And Alex is the only one who can break the connection. And the war against the gods may have just begun...

Rating: 3/5

 

Review: Deity by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Deity (Covenant #3) by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Publication Date: November 6, 2012
Publisher: Spencer Hill Press
Number of Pages: 330
Format: Paperback
Buy: Amazon | Barnes and Noble
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"History is on repeat, and things didn't go so well the last time. "


Alexandria isn't sure she's going to make it to her eighteenth birthday--to her Awakening. A long-forgotten, fanatical order is out to kill her, and if the Council ever discovers what she did in the Catskills, she's a goner... and so is Aiden.

If that's not freaky enough, whenever Alex and Seth spend time "training"--which really is just Seth's code word for some up-close and personal one-on-one time--she ends up with another mark of the Apollyon, which brings her one step closer to Awakening ahead of schedule. Awesome.

But as her birthday draws near, her entire world shatters with a startling revelation and she's caught between love and Fate. One will do anything to protect her. One has been lying to her since the beginning. Once the gods have revealed themselves, unleashing their wrath, lives will be irrevocably changed... and destroyed.

Those left standing will discover if love is truly greater than Fate...

With each book the series seems to be it own and not a copy of Vampire Academy. This book still had similarities with VA, but it doesn't seem to be an out right copy like the first book. Which I couldn't be anymore happier about, since I don't think I could continue with the series if every book was like the first one.

There were a few surprises or not so surprises in the book. The first one was Alex's father is still alive. Not only that, he's a half blood. Her father still being alive I saw coming in the last book. Very easy to spot. And I guess if you figured out that part you probably figured out he's a half blood and not a mortal. Which I guess I overlooked that part or just didn't think about it. Alex reaction about it? Very annoying. I just wanted to slap her. I understand her wanting to go find him and free him. But knowing that one wrong step and she's looking at a life in servitude. Yet she still rushes to do stupid things. When she finally sends back a letter for him, she tells him I love you. Now this I have issues with that. I know you love your parents, but she doesn't know her dad or anything about him. Even though he is her dad the I love you seems too sudden. Like me, if anyone suspected that there's more to Leon, you're right. We finally get to see who he really is.

And then there's Seth. There wasn't enough of him in this book. And what there was...well *bawls*. I knew Seth would break my heart. But I still have hope for him. I don't think he really has control of his mind. Come back to us cuddle bunny! I think he really does love Alex, but even so this book has killed my shipping of them two. Which would make you think I would jump on the Aiden ship. Nope. Not a chance. Which has completely stumped me. Aiden and Alex were pretty swoon worthy this book. But there's just something about him that I don't like. I know that they are perfect for each other and have this pure love, and that she will end up with him. They both know they should and need to stay away from each other, but they can't. Doesn't help that Aiden is one of her "babysiters". But knowing that one wrong move or if the wrong person sees them it's the end of Alex's life. I really think that's selfish of Aiden, no matter how deeply he loves her. 

Some of the gods finally make an appearance in the book. You'll see Apollo a lot, and trust me you will love him. I think he has earned the number one spot on my favorites in this series.

Overall, I really love the plot. And certain things started to make sense. And we learn which family member really does care about Alex. I'm hoping that Seth can find his way back.

Rating: 4/5

 

Review: Pure (Covenant #2) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Pure (Covenant #2)
Jennifer L. Armentrout
Publication date: April 3rd, 2012
Number of pages: 329
Format: Kindle
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There is need. And then there is Fate
Being destined to become some kind of supernatural electrical outlet isn't exactly awesome--especially when Alexandria's "other half" is everywhere she goes. Seth's in her training room, outside her classes, and keeps showing up in her bedroom--so not cool. Their connection does have some benefits, like staving off her nightmares of the tragic showdown with her mother, but it has no effect on what Alex feels for the forbidden, pure-blooded Aiden. Or what he will do--and sacrifice--for her.
When daimons infiltrate the Covenants and attack students, the gods send furies--lesser gods determined to eradicate any threat to the Covenants and to the gods, and that includes the Apollyon and Alex. And if that and hordes of aether-sucking monsters didn't blow bad enough, a mysterious threat seems willing to do anything to neutralize Seth, even if that means forcing Alex into servitude or killing her.
When the gods are involved, some decisions can never, ever be undone.

Ah. What to say about Pure? I can say one thing: It slowly takes off in its own, because I know how similar 'Half Blood' was to Vampire Academy, even I could admit that.
But Pure shows that it is its own original story, even though you probably could envision similarities still.
During the first book, Alex went through many things. From a love that is forbidden to her, heartbreak and lots of death. It is sure more than one single person should have to go through.

In Pure, Alex finds herself growing closer to her other 'half', Seth. It's known that once Alex comes into her powers, she'll not only be one heck of an Apolloyn, but also a force to be reckoned with. While she finds herself falling for her forbidden love, Aiden so much more, he on the other hand, seems to be pushing her away for reasons she can't understand. Or maybe she does, but it hurts her too much to think about them.
This was a great installment to this new series. There are some revelations that comes to light that will make you think "OMG" or "WTF". There is a moment toward the end of the book that shows how much Aiden loves Alex, even though he might not say the words out loud. Sometimes actions speak louder than any words spoken.

As an Aiden & Alex fan, this book was heartstopping and saddening. I knew this was more of a Seth book, but I was surprised that there was still enough of Aiden to keep me on his team. Usually, I don't change teams, and I knew this would be the same case. Team Aiden forever.
I did like Seth and his whole.. relationship with Alex. I prefer them as friends, and I like the banter they have going on. It's fun and interesting, but I don't feel the romantic and sexual chemistry between them that her and Aiden have always had.
If you ask me, Alex's heart has already been given out to someone, and Seth has no right to it. I have a feeling something big is about to happen concerning him.

All in all, a great sequel to "Half Blood" to and I look forward to book 3, to see what happens next for Alex and the men in her life.

My Verdict -

April's review of "Daimon" by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Daimon (Covenant #0.5) by Jennifer L. Arementrout
Publication Date: May 10, 2011
Publisher: Spencer Hill Press
Number of Pages: 67
Format: ebook
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Description:  "Love in my world usually ended up with someone hearing 'I smite thee ' as she was cursed to be some lame flower for the rest of her life."For three years, Alexandria has lived among mortals--pretending to be like them and trying to forget the duty she'd been trained to fulfill as a child of a mortal and a demigod. At seventeen, she's pretty much accepted that she's a freak by mortal standards... and that she'll never be prepared for that duty.According to her mother, that's a good thing.But as every descendant of the gods knows, Fate has a way of rearing her ugly head. A horrifying attack forces Alex to flee Miami and try to find her way back to the very place her mother had warned her she should never return-the Covenant. Every step that brings her closer to safety is one more step toward death... because she's being hunted by the very creatures she'd once trained to kill.The daimons have found her.

Won't be a long review since this was a short story. With me, prequels are either hits or misses. And I guess it depends if you actually read it before the first book or not. This one, it was ok nothing special to me. No new information, just when the daimon had found Alex and her mom, with Alex on the run. I'm sure I probably feel differently about it if I had read it before the first book. If you haven't read Half-Blood, then I would recommend reading this first. It leaves you wanting more. I do kind of wish it went back to right before Alex's mom pulled her from the covenant and ran for it. I would love to see Alex in those days. 

Rating: 3/5 

April's review of "Pure" by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Pure (Covenant #2) by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Publication Date: April 3, 2012
Publisher: Spencer Hill Press
Number of Pages: 329
Format: Paperback
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Description:  There is need. And then there is Fate
Being destined to become some kind of supernatural electrical outlet isn't exactly awesome--especially when Alexandria's "other half" is everywhere she goes. Seth's in her training room, outside her classes, and keeps showing up in her bedroom--so not cool. Their connection does have some benefits, like staving off her nightmares of the tragic showdown with her mother, but it has no effect on what Alex feels for the forbidden, pure-blooded Aiden. Or what he will do--and sacrifice--for her.
When daimons infiltrate the Covenants and attack students, the gods send furies--lesser gods determined to eradicate any threat to the Covenants and to the gods, and that includes the Apollyon and Alex. And if that and hordes of aether-sucking monsters didn't blow bad enough, a mysterious threat seems willing to do anything to neutralize Seth, even if that means forcing Alex into servitude or killing her.
When the gods are involved, some decisions can never, ever be undone.

Even though I had major issues with the first book, I decided to give the series another shot. I do have to say this book is a big improvement. With only a few similarities to Richelle Mead's Vampire Academy series, I felt like I was actually reading a different series. 

When Alex feels like nothing can get any worst, a daimon has breech Covenant security and has attack a student. The aftermath isn't good for the halves. Not only do all of them have an early curfew now but they aren't even allow to leave the Covenant control island. And the icing on the cake? All halves, students, guards, and sententials are required to have physical exams to ensure they haven't been turned. Even though Seth has told Alex that Lucian has given the order that Alex is not to be searched, Alex still finds herself about to be subject to a search. Even though Seth comes to her rescue and "remind" the guards that Lucian has order Alex not to be searched, Alex has already shown an example to stand up for themselves and say no. Which leads to be very dangerous. When there is a second attack at the school, there's a devastating death. Even though I knew the death was coming, it was foreshadowed in the first book, didn't make it less sad. In the aftermath, Alex realizes the importance of those exams. When Alex has to travel to Court to give testimony, she just might not make it back. Somebody desperately doesn't want Alex to Awaken, and will do anything to make sure she either forced to servitude or ends up dead. 

In the first book I was Team Aiden all the way. But in this book I couldn't help but be on Team Seth. Seth gives off the imagine of only caring about himself and has the biggest ego, but he cares for Alex. Through the tough times, he is there for Alex when Aiden cannot and won't be there. He's very overprotective of her and even comes close to killing a Master over her. I amaze myself that I actually switch over teams. I usually love the ships like Alex and Aiden, but in this series...I wish it wasn't as predictable. And let's face it YA is very predictable. This is the extreme of forbidden love. If anyone ever finds out that she has kissed Aiden, she will lose everything and force into servitude while Aiden could face death. I know you can't help who you fall in love with, but Alex shouldn't of let herself fall in love with him. Or at least not admit it so soon in the series. 

And then there's Lucian, Alex's step father. He seems to really care about Alex and her well being. But Alex knows better. Even though I'm suspicious of him, there's a part that really do want him to care about her. The ending made made me gasp. Alex has committed the ultimate crime as a half. Just when she thinks it's all over for her, Aiden covers it up. 

This book was amazing. I couldn't put it down. Even though I keep flip flopping through teams, I'm sure the next book will probably decide for me. 

Rating: 5/5

 

Jen's review of "The Darkest Seduction" by Gena Showalter

The Darkest Seduction (Lords of the Underworld #9) by Gena Showalter
Publication date: February 28th, 2012
Publisher: Harlequin
Number of pages: 504
Format: Mass Market Paperback
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Description: Possessed by the demon of Promiscuity, immortal warrior Paris is irresistibly seductive-but his potent allure comes at a terrible price. Every night he must bed someone new, or weaken and die. And the woman he craves above all others is the one woman he'd thought was forever beyond his reach…until now.

Newly possessed by the demon of Wrath, Sienna Blackstone is racked by a ruthless need to punish those around her. Yet in Paris's arms, the vulnerable beauty finds soul-searing passion and incredible peace. Until a blood feud between ancient enemies heats up.

Will the battle against gods, angels and creatures of the night bind them eternally-or tear them apart?

I'd say Paris's story is the most anticipated book in the series yet. There is always one male in a book series like this in which has been built up for so many books, and you hope pays off to which you hope. In my case, I didn't enjoy it as much as I had hoped. 
But that's not to say it was bad, I did enjoy it, and glad he had his story. I guess I expected more. I did enjoy the side stories though, and if I am honest, those were my fav parts of the book. 

Its no surprise that his love interest is Sienna. I think that has been obvious for some time now, and I like her. I can understand that she has been through a lot.
The relationship Paris and Sienna have had since the beginning has not been an easy one, or even one where they liked each other. The opposite really.
But as time went on, they saw that what they felt with one another was something they haven't felt with anyone else before, and that was something worth fighting for.

The side stories, especially with Kane, whose book is coming up next captivated me the most. I look forward to reading his story.

Even though this is book 9, Gena Showalter stays true to each character throughout the series, and keeps the stories of each book fresh and a captivating for the character arc.
Its just a shame we have to wait almost a year until the next book. Gena is one busy woman, and she writes so much.
I remember when she used to release 2 LOTU books a year, but I guess that was before she had so many books she had to write.

My Rating: 3 out of 5

April's review of 'Half-Blood' by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Half-Blood (Covenant #1) by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Publication Date: Oct 18, 2011
Publisher: Spencer Hills Press
Number of Pages: 281
Format: Paperback
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Description: The Hematoi descend from the unions of gods and mortals, and the children of two Hematoi-pure-bloods-have godlike powers. Children of Hematoi and mortals-well, not so much. Half-bloods only have two options: become trained Sentinels who hunt and kill daimons or become servants in the homes of the pures. Seventeen-year-old Alexandria would rather risk her life fighting than waste it scrubbing toilets, but she may end up slumming it anyway. There are several rules that students at the Covenant must follow. Alex has problems with them all, but especially rule #1:Relationships between pures and halfs are forbidden. Unfortunately, she's crushing hard on the totally hot pure-blood Aiden. But falling for Aiden isn't her biggest problem--staying alive long enough to graduate the Covenant and become a Sentinel is. If she fails in her duty, she faces a future worse than death or slavery: being turned into a daimon, and being hunted by Aiden. And that would kind of suck.

 Meet Alex, a half-blood that has been gone from her training for three years. When they finally find her and take her back, she is told that she is too far behind to come back. Aiden, a Sentinel that is a Pure has volunteer to train her, and if by the end of the summer she is caught up can continue her training. Which may not be the best of ideas when Alex starts to fall for him, which is completely forbidden. Sounds a little familiar? Well if you've read Richelle Mead's Vampire Academy series it should. I was told that the book is similar to the VA series, but I wasn't expecting an almost exact copy of it. While there are some differences, there was too many similarities between the two series. Which made it kind of hard for me to get into the book.I could make a whole post on the similarities, but that would take too long and would be time consuming. Alex could be Rose's clone.

That being said, I really did enjoy the book. I love Greek mythology, and reading books that are based on it. It's easy to fall in love with Alex, Aiden and the rest of the characters. Even had me laughing at some scenes. And like any other typical YA book, by the end you can see a love triangle brewing. Which should turn out interesting. I'm curious in the direction the second book goes in, which I've been told steers away from the VA similarities. I can't wait to read more scenes between Alex and Seth, the Apollyon; the only half-blood that not can control an element like the Pures, but can control all four plus the fifth that only the Gods are able to control. They seem to match each other in personality wise. I'm hoping we learn more about Apollyon in general. 

I feel very conflicted when it comes to this book. I really did love it. But at the same time I do feel like this is almost a complete rip off of the Vampire Academy series. I just don't see/understand with way too many similarities how there isn't a law suit. I will continue with the series. But it seriously lack originality.  

Rating: 3/5

 

Jen's review of "Goddess Interrupted" by Aimee Carter

Goddess Interrupted (Goddess Test #2) by Aimee Carter

Publication date: March 27th, 2012

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Number of pages: 304

Format: Paperback

Purchase: Amazon | The Book Depository

Description: Kate Winters has won immortality. But if she wants a life with Henry in the Underworld, she'll have to fight for it.

Becoming immortal wasn't supposed to be the easy part. Though Kate is about to be crowned Queen of the Underworld, she's as isolated as ever. And despite her growing love for Henry, ruler of the Underworld, he's becoming ever more distant and secretive. Then, in the midst of Kate's coronation, Henry is abducted by the only being powerful enough to kill him: the King of the Titans. As the other gods prepare for a war that could end them all, it is up to Kate to save Henry from the depths of Tartarus. But in order to navigate the endless caverns of the Underworld, Kate must enlist the help of the one person whom she would really rather not meet. Henry's first wife, Persephone.

In the sequel to, "Goddess Test", Kate has just spent the past six months travelling the world with her friend, James who kindly decided to travel with her so that she isn't alone. As much fun as she might have had, Kate can't wait until she is back with Henry since they haven't seen each other since she left.

But upon her arrival, things aren't what she expected them to be. Henry is basically ignoring her, and she discovers that there is an enemy awakening that has the potential to destroy them all.
While Kate had sentenced Calliope down to the underworld to spend time with each girl she had killed before Kate, things don't stay that way. She soon finds a way to extract her own revenge. Not just on Kate, but on them all, since I guess she blamed them all for not stopping Kate and the punishment she dished out.

When Henry suddenly disappears, Kate has to try to find a way to find him, which means going down to the underworld and going to the one person she wish she didn't have to see.
Her sister.
Persephone.

This was a great installment to the trilogy. I always wondered what Persephone was like, and to be honest -- in the beginning I didn't like her at all. But then towards the end you could see she wasn't so bad after all.
I was glad that this introduction to her just resolved Henry's feelings for her, since he never got that in the past, so that there was always these lingering feelings for her which always there in his heart and mind.

There was a definite cliffhanger to this book, and one that just makes you hate Calliope even more than you might have before. It's a "OMG.. You can't leave it there," kind of ending, and it just makes you want the next book like NOW. Unfortunately we have to wait, but I am sure it will be worth it and all this heartache will have some kind of resolution.

I felt Kate's heartache when she felt that Henry didn't love her, and only married her because he had to. It didn't help that Henry didn't put her mind at ease very easily, which only just added to her doubts. It was understandable, because what's in a guy's head... well, wouldn't we all like to know. If he never told her then it's hard on Kate to really understand how he felt toward her.

                                                              Rating: 4/5

Jen's review of "The Goddess Test" by Aimee Carter

The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter

Publication date: August 1st, 2011

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Number of pages: 292

Format: Paperback

Buy: Amazon | The Book Depository

Description:It's always been just Kate and her mom—and her mother is dying. Her last wish? To move back to her childhood home. So Kate's going to start at a new school with no friends, no other family and the fear her mother won't live past the fall.

Then she meets Henry. Dark. Tortured. And mesmerizing. He claims to be Hades, god of the Underworld—and if she accepts his bargain, he'll keep her mother alive while Kate tries to pass seven tests.

Kate is sure he's crazy—until she sees him bring a girl back from the dead. Now saving her mother seems crazily possible. If she succeeds, she'll become Henry's future bride, and a goddess.

For some reason I have been hesitant to read this book, but I recently got around to reading it and absolutely loved it.

Aimee Carter brings a new take to the greek gods and the mythology we have come to know and love.

The first book in this trilogy unfolds with Kate, 18 yrs old and has been looking after her dying mother for the past few years.

Her mother's dying wish was to go back to her home town so she can die in peace, and Kate can't say no to her, even if it means leaving New York.. her only home she has ever known.

When Kate starts at her new school in this small town, she meets a few new people who will make an impact on her whether she knows it or not.

When a tragedy occurs, Kate suddenly makes a deal with a guy not completing understanding what the deal she made was, less alone that she believed it. But when Kate has to choose between losing her mother, or saving her..at least to a point, in her mind she has no other choice.

Henry, the new guy whom she made this deal with claims to be Hades, the god of the underworld and in exchange for him helping her mother she must spent six months with him every year for the rest of the life.

Simple, right? Wrong. But, how bad could it be?

I haven't read a lot of books in this genre, and by that I mean that involve greek mythology and the gods. I believe the only other series I have read would be Percy Jackson. So I was pleasantly surprised by how interesting Aimee's take on this was. I didn't have a problem with her version of things, because I think it just makes it even more unique this way.

I did keep checking the back of the names of who was who so I can have it in my mind when I read certain parts with the characters.

I loved Kate and Henry. Their relationship changed slowly.. she might have hated him in the beginning for what he was making her do, but as she got to know him .. those feelings changed and started to develop into something more.

And while he does love her.. I'm not totally convinced that he is over his ex wife.

After I had finished the book .. I went back to the beginning and thought about it all.. everything made much more sense. I was planning on rating this 4 out of 5, but after everything that sunk in.. it was definitely a 5.

I look forward to the next book to see what happens next for Kate and Henry. While their love might be real.. I don't think it's far from easy. I'm sure there will be another complication thrown in their way to true happiness.

Rating: 5/5

April's review of 'The Darkest Seduction' by Gena Showalter

The Darkest Seduction (Lords of the Underworld #9) by Gena Showalter
Publish Date: Feb 28th, 2012
Publisher: HQN Books
Number of Pages: 504
Format: Paperback
Buy: Amazon | Barnes and Noble
Description:  At long last, New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter unveils the story of Paris, the darkest and most tormented Lord of the Underworld….Possessed by the demon of Promiscuity, immortal warrior Paris is irresistibly seductive—but his potent allure comes at a terrible price. Every night he must bed someone new, or weaken and die. And the woman he craves above all others is the one woman he'd thought was forever beyond his reach…until now. Newly possessed by the demon of Wrath, Sienna Blackstone is racked by a ruthless need to punish those around her. Yet in Paris's arms, the vulnerable beauty finds soul-searing passion and incredible peace. Until a blood feud between ancient enemies heats up.Will the battle against gods, angels and creatures of the night bind them eternally—or tear them apart?

The ninth installment of Showalter's enticing Lords of the Underworld series starts us off with Paris in the heavens continuing his search for Sienna. Along the way William and Zacharel, the deadly angel warrior, aides him in his quest. Sienna trapped in a castle by Cronus is desperate to get away. Paris finally finds Cronus secret realm where Sienna is hidden he's determined to break her out and have her at least one more time. 

I have mix feelings about the book. Paris' story has been long awaited and has been building up since the third book. I'm not sure if I was just expecting too much or if it's the fact that I was never completely sold on Paris and Sienna. Paris had never intended to keep her. While Cronus has a special mission for Sienna to spy on Galen and learn his secrets. Along the way of trying to escape the realm they become attached to each other.  Honestly I felt bored with Paris and Sienna. I never fully understood his depression of her death in the earlier books. But in the end I came to adore them. 

The side stories and and the overall bigger plot is what really made me want to read more. Without giving too much away there is a big game changer when it comes to Cronus and his fate. That's not the only big surprise. We learn that Galen isn't just paired with the demon of Hope, but also a second demon. And a very shocking surprise about Baden's death is revealed.  Meanwhile Kane is stuck in hell with his story starting to build up. We are also introduced to four more immortals hosting demons; Viola hosting Narcissism, Pùkinn or Irish as most refers him to hosting Indifference, Cameron hosting Obsession, and Winter hosting Selfishness. The only one of the three we really get to know is Viola, which is a very big pain but really has a good heart, and also obsessed with Screeching which is the Gods version of Twitter. Viola is pretty much the female counterpart of William. Which usually I adore William but in this book he was just plain annoying. Ashlyn finally have the twins and which are adorable. 


All in all I really did enjoy the book. I just wish Paris had a more steamier romance. 

Rating: 

3/5