Review: The Forever Song by Julie Kagawa

The Forever Song (Blood of Eden, #3) by Julie Kagawa
Publisher: Harlequin Australia
Number of pages: 394
Format: Kindle via Netgalley
Purchase: Amazon | Kindle | The Book Depository | Bookworld | Booktopia
Source: ARC from Publisher

Vengeance will be hers.

Allison Sekemoto once struggled with the question: human or monster? With the death of her love, Zeke, she has her answer.

Monster.

Allie will embrace her cold vampire side to hunt down and end Sarren, the psychopathic vampire who murdered Zeke. But the trail is bloody and long, and Sarren has left many surprises for Allie and her companions - her creator Kanin, and her blood brother, Jackal. The trail is leading straight to the one place they must protect at any cost - the last vampire-free zone on Earth, Eden. And Sarren has one final, brutal shock in store for Allie.

In a ruined world where no life is sacred and former allies can turn on you in one heartbeat, Allie will face her darkest days. And if she succeeds, her triumph will be short-lived in the face of surviving forever alone.

THE FINAL HUNT IS ON.

Please excuse me as this might be a bit wonky. It's my first review in over a month so hopefully this is just what I need to get back into blogging. Curse you school. LOL Seriously ever since I started classes I barely have had time to do much anything. Why do this do this to ourselves. Hah.

Back on topic it is. We've come to the end, Ladies and Gents *tear*. I know.. I know, let's all hug it out and relive all the good memories of this fabulous trilogy. Out of all of Julie's books I'd say this is my favourite series because it is so much more than just a series about vampires. SO MUCH MORE.

Julie has done an amazing job with this series. These characters are top notch and the plot thrilling every step of the way. I even came to love the romance from book 2 and this one, as I wasn't a big fan of it in the beginning, but came around eventually.

The Forever Song packs no punches and goes in full force. There is blood. Romance. Some shocks and twists along the way.
Just when you think you have seen it all, everything goes out the window and you are given a new thing to adjust to.

The cliffhanger from the previous book was harsh and you might not have known where the story was going to go, but in The Forever Song, things pick up pretty much not long after those events. Allison, Kanin and Jackal are on their own. Allison has changed a bit from the last time we saw her, well because of those certain events that transpired. But what she doesn't know...

I really enjoyed the.. relationship between Allison and Jackal, even the three of them. They have this family bond where two sisters barter with one another and throw insults, while the parent has to keep the peace. Yeah -- it was kind of like that.  It was definitely interesting to read about, that's for sure.

While they try find their way toward Eden, a peaceful place not many people know exist, or actually believe it does, these characters find out more about themselves, what they're willing to do for the sake of humankind.

If you're a fan of this series, this conclusion won't want to be missed. With so many things happening, you might want to make sure you have some tissues on hand while reading this little beauty.

Be sure to check this out come release day.

Review: Empower by Jessica Shirvington

Empower (Violet Eden Chapters #5) by Jessica Shirvington
Publication Date: November 12, 2013
Publisher: Hachette
Number of Pages: 464
Format: Paperback
Add to Goodreads

It has been two years since Violet Eden walked away from the city, her friends, her future and - most importantly - her soulmate, Lincoln. Part angel, part human, Violet is determined to stand by the promises she made to save the one she loves.

Living in the perpetual coldness of a broken soul she survives day to day as a Rogue Grigori in London.

But when an unexpected visitor shows up at her door, the news he bears about someone she swore to protect leaves Violet with no choice.

Even worse, she fears that this might all lead back to the night she tries hardest to forget. And what was taken without her permission.

Violet is going back to New York ... and she knows exactly who is going to be there.

With Phoenix in her dreams and Lincoln in her heart she knows it is only a matter of time before the final choice must be made.

The final book in this amazing series picks up two years after the end of Endless. Violet realizing that the ones she loves will always be in danger, she takes off on her own. For the last year she has joined a gang of rogues and living in London. We see a recurring character that we briefly met in Emblaze, Gray. I do have to admit I didn't remember him, but I grew to love him. But when an old friend disappears, Violet knows she has to go back to New York and help find him. For backup Gray is coming a long for the ride.

Violet's initial plan to get in there and out without Lincoln realizing she's there fails the moment she walked in the first meeting. We see a new Lincoln, a colder harsher Lincoln, and honestly I don't blame him at all. Going in the book I knew I wanted some angst, but this...it was heartbreaking. It tore my heart into two pieces. All I wanted to do was locked them in a room together. In all the heartbreaking scenes, there were a few swoonworthy scenes, that gives you hope.

All love issues aside, Violet has a bigger problem. There's someone out to get her angel maker, and they are going to use Violet to do it. And this time she's not sure if she can make it out a live.

This book was perfect. We finally see Violet accepts who she really is. Not to mention we finally learn who her angel maker is. I knew a second before it was revealed who it was, and thinking back it didn't really surprise me.

The best part of this book was Violet and Lincoln. After they get through their angst, they were beautiful. It really showed they were really soul mates, and made for each other. Usually in books we see how much the girl loves the guy, but in this we see exactly what Lincoln feels for Violet without it being cheesy.

I couldn't stop thinking about this book for days after reading it. I kept re reading certain scenes over and over again. It was a perfect ending for the series. And I can't think Jen enough for sending me the books when they are first released in Australia. I like to think I'm the only one in the US who has finished the series (which it could possibly be true since the last book isn't released here until next spring).

Rating: 5/5

Review: Untold by Sarah Rees Brennan

Untold (The Lynburn Legacy, #2) by Sarah Rees Brennan
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Publication date: August 29th, 2013
Number of pages: 336 pgs
Format: Paperback
Purchase: Amazon | Kindle | The Book Depository

Free from bonds, but not each other

It’s time to choose sides… On the surface, Sorry-in-the-Vale is a sleepy English town. But Kami Glass knows the truth. Sorry-in-the-Vale is full of magic. In the old days, the Lynburn family ruled with fear, terrifying the people into submission in order to kill for blood and power. Now the Lynburns are back, and Rob Lynburn is gathering sorcerers so that the town can return to the old ways.

But Rob and his followers aren’t the only sorcerers in town. A decision must be made: pay the blood sacrifice, or fight. For Kami, this means more than just choosing between good and evil. With her link to Jared Lynburn severed, she’s now free to love anyone she chooses. But who should that be?’

Well now, if the ending to Unspoken wasn't heartbreaking enough, be warned, this book may do just as much heartbreaking as the previous.
I still can't get over the name of the town. It's not your typical name and I still have trouble understanding it sometimes, but it's just one of those things that feel odd to me, but I suppose it makes since because the town, all of it, are all very odd in some matter.

I really adore these characters. I forgot how much I did like then town, the character and the crazy stuff that goes on there. I was thrilled to finally read the sequel. It was everything, maybe better than the first book. It had mysterious stuff going on, character and relationship progression. You discovered why Jared said the things he said in the last chapter of the previous book. You find out more about him, his family and his feelings for Kami (I wasn't even sure he had any until this book).

Kami and her group of friends are fantastic. Kami is definitely a journalist in the making. She is already deep in the midst of everything, always wanting to solve things, kind of like our very own Nancy Drew. The emotions she brings out especially of her relationship with Jared just melted my heart.  The love these two have, gah. It was so heartbreaking, romantic, realistic and very telling. I now understood why Jared did the things he did.  Why Kami did the things SHE did, and so much more.

We have our villians. We have our heroes, and we have some twists and turns. This book is definitely a journey a worthy sequel should be.
All in all, it's a very addicting and action filled installment.  The end will make you want to seek out Sarah Rees Brennan and make her show you the 3rd book manuscript STAT.

I look foward to the next book in the series. Jared and Kami need to be together, okay?

4 Stars

Review: Empower by Jessica Shirvington

Empower (Violet Eden Chapters, #5) by Jessica Shirvington
Publisher: Hachette
Publication date: November 12th, 2013
Number of pages: 464 pgs
Format: paperback
Purchase: Bookworld

It has been two years since Violet Eden walked away from the city, her friends, her future and - most importantly - her soulmate, Lincoln. Part angel, part human, Violet is determined to stand by the promises she made to save the one she loves.

Living in the perpetual coldness of a broken soul she survives day to day as a Rogue Grigori in London.

But when an unexpected visitor shows up at her door, the news he bears about someone she swore to protect leaves Violet with no choice.

Even worse, she fears that this might all lead back to the night she tries hardest to forget. And what was taken without her permission.

Violet is going back to New York ... and she knows exactly who is going to be there.

With Phoenix in her dreams and Lincoln in her heart she knows it is only a matter of time before the final choice must be made.

It's been two years since Violet left. She disappeared from her town, her friends... Lincoln. Her soulmate and it has killed her every day since. The moment she gets word someone she cares about has gone missing, she is determined to do everything she can to find him again, even if it means going back to the one place she didn't think she would be again.

Violet hasn't had the easiest time over the past few years. She is almost twenty years old, she moves from one place to another when she feels Lincoln closing in on her. Going back to New York probably was the hardest thing she had to do. She was a bit naive thinking that she could avoid.. certain people, well, more like a certain someone.
The moment she arrives, that is when the story really begins..
She has to figure out where her friend is, how she would go about locating him, and what she may have to sacrifice. She doesn't find things easy when she returns, as you can imagine. Steph has been getting the cold shoulder from Lincoln, Phoenix has been haunting her telling her that she can't run away forever, and discovers there is a new crowd in town, some none too pleased to see her.

I loved the plot of this story. I wasn't sure how the time jump would affect the series, but now I couldn't imagine it any other way. Not only does it enhance Violet, who has become a rogue Grigori over the past few years, but Lincoln also, who has become a leader who he is meant to be, with a few added qualities that were put there by hurt and betrayal.
Violet has become quite the leader herself. She has learnt a lot throughout the last two years. Things about herself, about what she can do. She discovers there is so much more to her abilities than she first realized.

The relationship between Violet and Lincoln just.. explodes in this book. If you thought you loved them in the previous four books, then think again, because the things they feel, go through... boy, it is just so emotional and heartbreaking you won't want to put this book down.
The first half of the book is full of angst that will literally kill you if you're not careful.  Things like..

I cut him off. ‘It changes nothing, Lincoln.’

‘It changes everything!’ he thundered. ‘I let you go because I thought you’d moved on! That I was ruined because I couldn’t do the same but if you could, then I really had no right to stand in your way!’ He was still yelling. ‘But you’re not fixed at all, are you? We’re still us in all the terrible ways and none of the good!’

‘What did you expect me to do? Bring you back and then just stand aside so I could watch you die for me all over again? I’d rather live on the other side of the world, cold and in constant agony, and at least know that somewhere you still exist, because I know for certain that if you’re with me – you’re as good as gone.’

There were times I couldn't hold it together when it came to these two. The angst. The tension. The longing and the heartbreak. It hard to handle at times for my emotional wellbeing. But I would not take one moment back for a second.  Everything these two have been through, whether it was in the first, fourth or this book all means something. I wouldn't have it any other way.
They are absolutely perfect. The journey we have been on with these two just has been beautiful, yes it was also heartbreaking, but everything goes a certain way for a reason, and everything has been building to this..
I loved everything about them. Their beginning, middle and end. You will not be disappointed, trust me on that.

Phoenix also makes a return and can understand more to him than you did before. Without Lilith. Without the angels or anyone, it is all about what he wants, and by the end of this book, he finally finds the place that he is meant to be. It made perfect sense, and a great way to end his own personal journey.
I admit I have not been the biggest fan of Phoenix during the series. There are times where I hated him, but in Endless and Empower especially, he has come a long way from who he used to be. The love he has for Violet has made him into a better person, and I felt that should be the main point of the other person left of a triangle.

Speaking of the triangle, it really never was a proper one to begin with because it was never a choice between Linc or Phoenix, it was more about the person she wanted to be, and the choice that came with that. She was always in love with one person. She just was drawn to Phoenix for different reasons.
I do feel the tagline on this book was a bit misleading. The final choice was never regarding the boys, it was more about the choice she would have to make regarding herself and giving in.. to things she refused to do before.

There was some heartbreaking moments in this conclusion. There was also some pleasant surprises as well. I could not have asked for a better ending. I applaud Jessica for giving us such a special and beautiful story.  For the journey of Violet Eden as she discovers who and what she is, and the choices she makes along the day.

I am definitely a fan of Jessica for life.  She is on my must-buy list, and has been for ages now. I will follow you wherever you go.

It is sad to say goodbye to this series, but I feel satisfied enough these characters will be happy and can lead their lives.

5 MLLLION stars

Teaser Tuesday 28

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Want to play along?

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share 2 "teaser" sentences from somewhere on that page
• Be careful not to include spoilers
• Share the title and author

Just finished reading Empower by Jessica Shirvington. My god was it perfect. If you haven't read the series then I urge you to run out to the bookstore right now and pick up the first one.

 He was still yelling. "But you're not fixed at all, are you? We're still us in the terrible ways and none of the good!"

Review: Third Grave Dead Ahead by Darynda Jones

Third Grave Dead Ahead (Charley Davidson, #3) by Darynda Jones
Publisher: Piatkus
Publication date: February 2nd, 2012
Number of pages: 310 pgs
Format: Paperback
Purchase: Amazon | The Book Depository | Kindle

Paranormal private eye. Grim reaper extraordinaire. Whatever. Charley Davidson is back! And she's drinking copious amounts of caffeine to stay awake because every time she closes her eyes she sees him: Reyes Farrow, the part-human, part-supermodel son of Satan.

Granted she did imprison Reyes for all eternity, but how is she supposed to solve a missing-persons case, deal with an ego-driven doctor, calm her curmudgeonly dad, and take on a motorcycle gang hell-bent on murder when the devil's son just won't give up on his plan of seduction..... and revenge?

The third installment to the Charley Davidson series is just as awesome as the previous two. Seriously, there is just nothing not to love. These characters. Hilarious lines and a swoonworthy love interest in the form of the son of Satan. What can get any better than that?

These characters just get better and better. While Charley is trying to not to sleep because she is told she is summoning Reyes, who she has bound his spirit back to his body and he aint too pleased about that. It's like her subconscious wants him there with her, no matter what she thinks in the daytime.
There were some scenes that were downright heartbreaking, there were others that were sexy as well.  This is what you get when dealing with Reyes. He is sex on a stick, man. No way to go around that.

We have other characters that come into play.  Cookie, who is just as great as ever, and then there is Charley's dad. Now, okay. I can understand where he is coming from, and I felt bad for him in time especially toward the end, but I guess it was also his own doing when you think about it. Not wanting your daughter involved with this kind of stuff anymore is hard to explain when you're the one who got her into it in the first place.  I think he is kinda regretting that now.  Ah, men! I hated seeing them fight though, because I love their father/daughter relationship they have going on.

Garrett's story just is too heartbreaking, and there was a little something that happens at the end where he is concerned. I was both concerned and worried he may not come back from this, but thankfully it is not his time yet.
And then we have the Biker gang who happen to own the asylum. They were a crack and a half, and interesting and new interactions we have with our Charley.

The relationship between Charley and Reyes heats again, and he is more present in this book than he was in the previous one. We discover a lot about him that we didn't before. He will make your heart bleed, and make you swoon all at the same time.

Onto the next book it is.

5 Stars

Review: Second Grave on the Left by Darynda Jones

Second Grave on the Left (Charley Davidson, #2) by Darynda Jones
Publisher: Piatkus Books
Publication date: January 5th, 2012
Number of pages: 307 pgs
Format: Paperback
Purchase:  Amazon | The Book Depository

"If you hang around with dead people, life can deliver a whole world of trouble."

Take it from Charley Davidson, part-time P.I. and full-time Grim Reaper.The deceased find her very sparkly. Demons find her irresistible. And one entity in particular wants to seduce her in every way possible...

When Charley and Cookie, her best friend slash receptionist, have to track down a missing woman, the case is not quite as open and shut as they anticipate. Meanwhile, Reyes Alexander Farrow (otherwise known as the Son of Satan. Yes. Literally.) has left his corporeal body because he's being tortured by demons who want to lure Charley closer. But Reyes can't let that happen. Because if the demons get to Charley, they'll have a portal to heaven. And if they have a portal to heaven...well, let's just say it wouldn't be pretty.

Can Charley handle hot nights with Reyes and even hotter days tracking down a missing woman? Can she keep those she loves out of harm's way? And is there enough coffee and chocolate in the world to fuel her as she does?

When Charley gets woken up in the middle of the night by her best friend Cookie, to go to a meeting with her friend, Mimi, but it seems she has gone missing. After some much thought, Charley decides to take the case and she soon discovers not everything is as it seems. There is someone after Mimi, and they won't stop until she is dead.
This is a mystery only Charley can solve, and even she will be finding a hard time in doing that. With questionable suspects, disappearances and murders, she might figure that this is something she can't even solve.

Then there is Reyes. Charley's kind-of lover, who is also the son of Satan. Charley has no idea what's going on with him, and when she demands some answers ---  she may not be prepared for the ones she gets. With his enemies trying to use his body to open up the gates to hell, he'll do anything to stop that from happening... even if it means getting rid of his host body, once and for all.
I loved the relationship between these two.  In The First Grave on the Right, I was intrigued by Reyes and loved their little interactions, but with this book, Second Grave on the Left just expanded things so much more. I couldn't get enough. The chemistry between the two of them is burning hot, and got to love they have some history.

Charley is such an awesome character. She is witty, honest, hilarious and loyal to her loved ones. She'll do what is right, or what she thinks is right and will do her damned best to make sure the spirits get peace and help others any way that she can.
The friendship she has with her best friend, Cookie is great. They have some fabulous scenes to the point I couldn't help laughing at some of the things they find themselves in.

I'm so glad I was introduced to this series. I wasn't sure if I would like it, but I am proud to say it has sucked me right in.

Bring on the next book.


If you prefer reading via Audiobooks, here is a sample for this book, thanks to the publisher.

 5 Stars.

Review: Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

Vampire Academy (Vampire Academy #1) by Richelle Mead
Publication Date: August 16, 2007
Publisher: Razorbill
Number of Pages: 332
Format: Paperback
Buy: Amazon | Barnes and Noble
Add to Goodreads

St. Vladimir’s Academy isn’t just any boarding school—it’s a hidden place where vampires are educated in the ways of magic and half-human teens train to protect them. Rose Hathaway is a Dhampir, a bodyguard for her best friend Lissa, a Moroi Vampire Princess. They’ve been on the run, but now they’re being dragged back to St. Vladimir’s—the very place where they’re most in danger...

Rose and Lissa become enmeshed in forbidden romance, the Academy’s ruthless social scene, and unspeakable nighttime rituals. But they must be careful lest the Strigoi—the world’s fiercest and most dangerous vampires—make Lissa one of them forever.

Rose Hathaway is a Dhampir, a half human half vampire that is train to protect the full blooded vamps, the Moroi. Lissa is the only remaining member of her royal family line, which makes her a princess, and even more vulnerable, who is also Rose's best friend. Rose has swore to protect Lissa at all costs, which is the reason why they have been on the run from their boarding school for the past two years. But luck isn't on their side anymore, and they are being forced to go back to the one place Rose is certain Lissa isn't safe.

One of the things I love about this book is Ms. Mead just jumps into the story with little world building. It's just explained as it goes. It's the same with why Rose and Lissa had left the school and what was exactly going on. Yes it's almost frustrating you want to know what had happened. But I love guessing as the story goes. Now if you haven't read the series yet, I know what you are thinking, not another Twilight. I remember after reading Twilight, and way before even hearing about this, seeing the books in the bookstore (this is also before I really got into the paranormal genre) rolling my eyes and thinking it's a copy off of Twilight. You couldn't be more wrong. The vampires is a whole new category, and honestly I forget that they are vampires half the time.

Rose and Lissa's friendship is one of the best I've read. It takes real love and loyalty to put someone else needs above your own. To give up everything to protect them. It's just not one sided either. We get to see how Lissa will do anything to protect Rose's reputation. They each look out for each other and do what they believe is best for the other. They are truly sisters at heart, each other family.

What is an YA book without a lead guy that is drool worthy? This book is no exception. Dimitri, who is described as a god. One of the kickass Guardians around. He just so happens have to mentor Rose considering she is way behind in her training. We see a sort of a friendship develop between the two of them. It's not long before Rose realizes that she's crushing on her mentor, not to mention he's seven years older than her.

But through all the high school and romance drama, there's a danger lurking around. The same danger that caused them to go on the run, but this time there's no running away this time.

This book has it all; friendship, humor, love, danger, forbidden. Although the core of the book is Rose and Lissa's friendship, the connection between Rose and Dimitri can not be ignored. You will laugh, cry, and even scream. Not to mention such an addicting book. Even after re reading so many times and knowing what will happen I still can't put this book down. If you haven't checked out this series then do it ASAP.

Rating: 5/5

 

 

Review: Phoenix by Elizabeth Richards

Phoenix (Black City, #2) by Elizabeth Richards
Publisher: Putnam
Publication date: June 4th, 2013
Number of pages: 368 pgs
Format: Hardcover
Purchase: Amazon | The Book Depository

Ash and Natalie are just starting to build a life together when things in the United Sentry States go from bad to worse. Ash and Natalie find themselves at the center of turmoil when dictator Purian Rose threatens Natalie’s life unless Ash votes in favor of Rose’s Law—a law that will send Darklings and other dissenters to a deadly concentration camp known as the Tenth.

When Ash can’t bring himself to trade Natalie’s life for those of millions of Darklings, her fate is sealed. Enter Elijah Theroux, the handsome Bastet boy Natalie once saved from her mother’s labs, where he’d been experimented on and tortured. It was his venom the Sentry used to create the lethal Golden Haze, the heart of the government conspiracy that led to Black City’s uprising and Ash’s rebirth as the Phoenix, the face of the rebellion. Elijah is back and Ash doesn’t like him; it’s clear he’s taken with Natalie, and Ash fears she may have feelings for him as well.

But Elijah also may have the answer to taking down Purian Rose for good—a powerful weapon called the Ora. Ash, Natalie and Elijah just have to escape Black City undetected to find it. But fleeing the city and finding this weapon (if it even exists) are easier said than done, and the quest could tear Ash and Natalie apart, even pushing them into the arms of others.

In July this year I had the pleasure of discovering this fantastic series. I picked up Black City by random while I was in Sydney after my cruise and adored it. I wasn't sure how Phoenix was going to top that, but I couldn't wait to read it and discover what exactly happens after the end of BC.

I absolutely love the way Elizabeth Richards narrates this story with the multiple POV with Ash and Natalie. It works and makes sense in the scope of the story. While they may be together they have different stories going on in between one another, so to understand what the other is going though it's natural to get inside their heads individually.

From the moment I began this book I knew it was going to be amazing, possibly even more so than the prior one, and I was absolutely correct. Phoenix takes everything Black City had and added so much more to it. More action, romance, angst, tension, issues and problems for everyone to deal with.
The story was riveting from start to finish, I had to know more and more. What was going to happen next? What was in store for Ash and Natalie?  Both characters have changed so much since Black City as they should given the things they were dealt and went through thus far.
Their relationship has gone from strength to strength, but not without some problems. Things aren't always rosey for these two love birds. They have relationship problems, communication problems and make stupid mistakes, that if they would communicate more they wouldn't have gone through the things they did.
But I guess it's all about the journey they have to go through that will make them stronger in the end, and I believe that was the purpose.
I wouldn't really say it was a triangle forming, because there is no doubt that Ash and Natalie love one another and nobody else, but sometimes, things get confused and make someone thinks something else. Or things happen that push them to other people, but I was glad that it was not as horrible as the blurb makes it out to be.

There was more action and rebellion type things in Phoenix. You also got to see more of the world, Elizabeth has built and understand why and how things are the way they are. There are different  species out there that gets talked about.  This is a book where the stakes get raised to a high extent and pushes the boundaries to a point where there is no going back.
This book gives us everything that makes a rebellion against Puritan Rose worthwhile, and understandable. It makes you hate him and his followers even more so.

I loved the romance between Ash and Natalie in this book. Black City was more about setting them up, with added complications, but Phoenix was more about what they would do for one another. Their love moved me. It was beautiful, hot, sweet and sincere. While they are bonded, that doesn't make their relationship get boring. No, they have obstacles in their past (namely a boy named Elijah), but not for one minute did they stop loving each other.  There was scenes that were angsty and I just wanted to force them together, there was scene when I wanted to tear up. These two are meant to be, and not because they have to be, but rather because they want to be together ---  that every fibre in their being just yearns for one another, plain and simple.

I look forward to the conclusion to this series. HURRY UP. I want it now. I can't wait to see how everything is concluded. Not only for Ash and Natalie, but also for the rebellion and Puritan Rose. This was an exciting read. Surpasses it's predecessor.

5 Stars

Review: Darkness Splintered by Keri Arthur

Darkness Splintered (Dark Angels, #6) by Keri Arthur
Publisher: Signet
Publication date: November 5th, 2013
Number of pages: 382 Pgs
Format: Paperback
Purchase: Amazon | The Book Depository

When Risa loses the second key to hell, she angers several powerful people, and she’s starting to feel the pressure from all sides. She gets a visit from her father, who gives her an ultimatum: Get back the key or he will kill her friends.

Risa also finds herself under the scrutiny of the vampire council, some of whom consider her a monster who should be destroyed. But they offer her a bloody bargain: Take on the lethal head of the council, Madeline Hunter, and others will support her.

As the search for the keys to hell heats up, Risa realizes that she has no choice. For the sake of the people she loves, she must find the keys — and get rid of Hunter — before the second gate is opened and brings the world closer to all hell breaking loose..

I was lucky to have scored an early copy of this book last month (I know, late review, but I'm so behind as it is, lol) and I couldn't wait to dig back into Risa's world.
She does not have very good luck, this girl. If something goes wrong, everything does. This book is no exception. After the second key goes missing, Risa puts everything to rest to find it as soon as possible, especially when her father makes a threat of his own as incentive, nothing will make her find this bloody thing than threatening someone does loves. That's not all she has to deal with -- she also has her Boss, Madeline Hunter on her back wanting the keys for herself for god knows what to do with, but I have a feeling it won't be anything good, that's for sure.

Risa and Azriel. Oh, what could I say about them? Their relationship has to be my favourite part of the series, as with any series really that I love the romance between the characters, this one in particular.  Things between them have not been easy at any cost and the end of the previous book basically killed me and I wasn't sure what was going to happen next, especially with Risa pregnant and sending him away because she was hurt that he did something she couldn't understand.
You can sense where the story is going and will end up with these two. There is hope and some sort of happiness, but the angst is sure not over, by a long shot.  Keri does not do her relationships easily and most of her characters don't end up blissfully happy until the very end, so thankfully there is one book left. 
I feel that sometimes Risa puts Azriel on a petastool and expects him to go by standards she goes by, but given the fact he is not like her, the way he acts and does things need to be judged on a different kind of merit.
I absolutely love though how much progress these two have had since the beginning of the series. At first I wasn't sure if Keri was going to put romance between them, or whether Risa would be with someone else, but I am glad she decided this route because they match each other perfectly.

This series has always been action-packed. Risa is not your typical heroine. She has her flaws and is not perfect. But she has gone through so much throughout the series, I just want her to be happy and loved. For her to have some peace for a while. She deserves that.
It doesn't feel like it has been six books. It feels like it was yesterday that I picked up Darkness Unbound and started this series.  I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about it since I had just come off Riley's series, but as the series has moved on, I have absolutely loved everything Risa has gone through. Good and bad.  It's definitely more Urban Fantasy while the original one, I felt was more PNR.
I look forward to the final book in this series, to see how everything is all wrapped up. I also wouldn't mind some final appearances from the old characters since they are closely connected to Risa. It will be sad to say goodbye to this series, characters and this universe, as I'm not sure if Keri would be another spinoff.  I don't like goodbyes...

Keri is a definite must read where I am concerned. I do need to read her prior books though.

5 Stars.

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
Buy: Amazon | Barnes and Noble
Add to Goodreads

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: The Fall of Five by Pittacus Lore

The Fall of Five (Lorien Legacies, #4) by Pittacus Lore
Publisher: Penguin
Publication date: August 27th, 2013
Number of pages: 342 pgs
Format: Paperback
Purchase:  Amazon | The Book Depository

The Garde are finally reunited, but do they have what it takes to win the war against the Mogadorians?

John Smith—Number Four—thought that things would change once the Garde found each other. They would stop running. They would fight the Mogadorians. And they would win.

But he was wrong. After facing off with the Mogadorian ruler and almost being annihilated, the Garde know they are drastically unprepared and hopelessly outgunned. Now they’re hiding out in Nine’s Chicago penthouse, trying to figure out their next move.

The six of them are powerful, but they’re not strong enough yet to take on an entire army—even with the return of an old ally. To defeat their enemy, the Garde must master their Legacies and learn to work together as a team. More importantly, they’ll have to discover the truth about the Elders and their plan for the Loric survivors.

And when the Garde receive a sign from Number Five—a crop circle in the shape of a Loric symbol—they know they are so close to being reunited. But could it be a trap? Time is running out, and the only thing they know for certain is that they have to get to Five before it’s too late.

The Garde may have lost battles, but they will not lose this war.

Lorien will rise again.

The Lorien Legacies saga keeps getting better and better with each passing book. Just when you think you have seen it all, something then happens and you're blown to pieces.
I had been excitedly anticipating the release of this book to the point I could not wait until I got my grabby hands on it. I absolutely adored The Rise of Nine. The stakes are raised, with twists and turns, you just have no idea what will happen next with this group of people.

When this book begins the group are searching for number Five, but when they do get word from him and locate the boy, it may not be the reunion they thought it would be. With Five joining their ranks, the group seem to get the idea they are becoming stronger by the moment. Five is not your average member of the Garde, and when the others seem to not know whether they can trust him or not, a big betrayal happens in the core of the Garde that puts everyone they care about in danger.

I loved the relationship between John and Sarah. I think they are my two favourite characters. Whether or not you like her, or them, I think it's fairly obvious from the first book these two are just it for one another. There is only one person for those Loric's, and Sarah happen to be John's.. now it's just a matter of  exploring each other and how to make this work while they are under siege. It's not the most ideal situation to start up a relationship, but they do what they can.

I also came to adore Six and Sam's relationship.  I felt there was much potential with them from the very first book also, and so you can see the progress they make into forming something in this installment.
After Sam is kidnapped, he knows that while he is only human, he has to make an impact and do something.
I love the fact that with Sam and Sarah. They may be the human love interests, but they aren't weak or useless. They know they have to learn to be able to fight, even if they don't have special powers like the others do, they will just have to rely on human abilities, such as strength, will power and a kickass attitude.

This book was full of sacrifices, betrayal, romance and revelations. It was action packed, and might be my favourite out of the series as yet.
The end opens up for some interesting new developments, yet sadness because not everyone will make it.

I liked the introduction to Sam's dad and the information he has provided the group. That is something they can't find any place else.  It was nice to have someone that knows a bit more than they do, and something that can help them through their battle with their enemy.
Also.. Adam. Ah, I loved him. It just goes to show that a new species built from the moradorian can either be good or bad, especially when they have insight to human emotions.

It was nice getting to know other characters. I adore how Pittacus has gone about with the multiple POV, although I do think it would be easier if he would put their name just above before entering each person. It can sometimes get  a little confusing.

I absolutely can't wait to see what happens next to my favourite characters, for then to defeat the Mogadorian, and maybe go home to Lorien.. Or stay on earth. Just as long as they have everyone with them. Human and not.

Rating: 5/5

Teaser Tuesday 27

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Want to play along?

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share 2 "teaser" sentences from somewhere on that page
• Be careful not to include spoilers
• Share the title and author

I know, I know, it's been months since I've done one of these. I always remember the day after. To make up for lost time I will post a few teasers.

The first one comes from Dragonfly in Amber by Diana Gabaldon, the second novel in her Outlander series. I just finished this one today, and I absolutely love me some Jamie Frasier.

“I will find you," he whispered in my ear. "I promise. If I must endure two hundred years of purgatory, two hundred years without you - then that is my punishment, which I have earned for my crimes. For I have lied, and killed, and stolen; betrayed and broken trust. But there is the one thing that shall lie in the balance. When I shall stand before God, I shall have one thing to say, to weigh against the rest."

This next one comes from On the Edge by Ilona Andrews. I've only read the first book, but I can't wait to read more of the series.

"Go brush your teeth, comb your hair, put on dry clothes, and get the guns. We're going to Wal-Mart.”

 

Review: The Darkest Craving by Gena Showalter

The Darkest Craving (Lords of the Underworld #10) by Gena Showalter
Publication Date: July 30, 2013
Publisher: Harlequin HQN
Number of Pages: 466
Format: Paperback
Buy: Amazon | Barnes and Noble
Add to Goodreads

Having endured weeks of torture in the bowels of hell, Kane wants nothing to do with his beautiful rescuer, Josephina Aisling. The half-Fae female threatens to awaken the demon of Disaster inside him—a beast he’s determined to kill, no matter the price.

Josephina is hunted by a brutal enemy—her royal family—and Kane is her only source of protection. He’s also the only male to ever set her aflame, and even he succumbs to the heat. But as they navigate the treacherous world of the Fae, they are forced to make a choice: live apart…or die together.

I've been putting this off for almost a month. Honestly, I'm sorry for being MIA lately. But also this is going to be a very short and brief review.

First off, I absolutely love the cover model. He looks like Paul Wesley. *drools* I had a mix of emotions going into this book. On the one had, the memory of the disappointment with Paris' book, and the failure of the second angel book had me hesitant. But I had friends say this book was a lot better, that it seems like Gena is getting her groove back.

While this book was a great improvement, I still found it lacking. I really enjoyed the beginning of the book. But once they go back to the land of the Fae, I found it a little slow and almost boring. Even after they leave, I still couldn't invest myself fully in. I really liked Kane and Josephina. Or at least at first I did. Don't get me wrong I still liked the book and both the hero and heroine, but I could tell the difference. Josephina was strong, but she had a vulnerable side too.  And towards the end I felt like she was too vulnerable. Also with Kane we saw his vulnerable side, a soft side that we haven't seen in any of the Lords. One that I felt was too soft. Yes it's nice to see a soft side and not just the "caveman" affect on these men, but it was just too much for me. I like to see these as the alpha man, and when they fall in love they take charge and protect their woman; not saying Kane didn't do that, I just don't want to see them weak in love.

Also something different in this book, the Fae  knew all about the Lords. And to them the Lords were celebrities and watched their every move. Even had fan clubs, and the girls even fan girl over them. There was no retelling of the Lords backstory, which was kind of nice. After so many books you get the picture. We got to see Torin's story being set up, which I was more interested in. I didn't like how the story ended, where ended up living.

This wasn't her best book, but he wasn't her worst. Although I still love this series and remains one of my favorites, I'm looking forward to the series wrapping up.

Rating: 3/5

 

Review: Chosen at Nightfall by C.C Hunter

Chosen at Nightfall (Shadow Falls #5) by C.C Hunter
Publisher: St Martins Press
Publication date: April 23rd, 2013
Number of pages: 400 pgs
Format: Paperback
Purchase: Amazon | The Book Depository

Kylie Galen's life hasn't been the same since her world was turned upside-down in Born at Midnight, Shadow Falls #1, and now an epic conclusion to her journey—not to mention a tough choice between two guys!—is brewing in Chosen at Nightfall:

When Kylie Galen left Shadow Falls, she thought it was the hardest decision of her life. Heartbroken and separated from everyone she loves, she has to embrace her abilities and what it means to be a chameleon. But as Kylie's journey comes to a close, she must return to the camp that started it all...and she must finally chose between the two boys who love her. The werewolf who broke her heart when he chose his pack over her, and the half-fae who ran from their intense attraction before they ever really had a chance. For Kylie, everything will finally be revealed and nothing will ever be the same.

It's a shame I have to do a review like this considering how much I adored the first four books. I had such high hopes for the finale and thought I knew how it would end, but I was unfortunately, very much mistaken.
A part of me wishes I hadn't read this book, and to me, it ended with the end of book 4. SIGH. Some things just aren't always the way you know they should go, that authors don't always share the same opinion as us, and in this case it seems to be the very matter.

In the final book to Kylie's story at Shadow Falls, are taken back into her life as she spends some time away from the camp. She soon discovers she is safer at Shadow Falls than she is anywhere else.
The story picks up just a few weeks after she has left the camp and finds herself in a place amongst her own kind. She discover things about what she is and what it means, and how everything all works. When Kylie sees a ghost (of course)who tells her that she has to kill him or she'll be killed. Not many options here.

Burnett and co soon turn up warning her of Mario who may know her location and that she has to come back to the camp where is the only place she can be safe, so off she goes, unknowing what or whom she will awaiting her there.

There wasn't many things I liked about this book. Derek. Burnett and Holiday. Kylie frustrated me to no end. I understand and sometimes feel sorry for her; she doesn't have the easiest life and so many problems being thrown at her, but she makes a very bad decision and one that makes no sense.
April and I were sure who Kylie would choose especially after the end of the previous book, but it's like everything that happened.. never happened and nothing made sense. There was no excusing the events that transpired prior to this, and imo, the choice should have been an easy one. But I felt like she never gave one boy a real chance and gave up way too quickly.
The other one though, I never liked. Or sometimes I did, and then he would go and do something do douche that made me dislike him once again. Every ounce of common sense that Kylie once had must have been slapped out of her --  or, I don't know.. Its the only thing that makes sense to me as to her stupid choice she makes. I literally felt sick after reading this book.
What is this meant to show the readers? That it's OKAY to choose someone who hurts you time and time again, who chooses to commit to something and be a coward? I'm clueless.  

While everyone seems to get their happy ending, and I'm glad that Derek ended up with his own happy ending, it also felt contrived and put there because of Kylie's choice. It's like.. okay, let's put him with someone so he doesn't mope around.
His happiness was all I cared for at this point, and I guess I was happy enough that in the end he did get what he deserves.

I was very disappointed in the way this book turned out, and sadly, it's put me off on reading the spinoff. I just can't do it.

Rating: 2.5/5

Review: Spirit by Brigid Kemmerer

Spirit (Elemental, #3) by Brigid Kemmerer
Publisher:  Allen & Unwin
Publication date: June 1st, 2013
Number of pages: 294 pgs
Format: Paperback
Purchase: Amazon | The Book Depository

Hunter Garrity just wants to be left alone. He has learned the hard way that his unusual abilities come at a price. And he can't seem to afford any allies.

He's up to his neck in hostiles. His grandfather, spoiling for a fight. The Merrick brothers, who think he ratted them out. Calla, the scheming psycho who wants to use him as bait.

Then there's Kate Sullivan, the new girl at school. She's not hostile. She's bold. Funny. Hot. But she's got an agenda, too.

With supposedly secret powers rippling to the surface everywhere around him, Hunter knows something ugly is about to go down - which means he'll have to find someone he can trust.

POWER. ENEMIES. EVERYWHERE

This is the third book in the Elemental series and after Spark I couldn't wait to know more about Hunter. We were introduced to him in Storm, but at that point I didn't really like him all that much. He was coming in between Becca and Chris and I did not approve, aha. But I was curious about who he was and there was enough for me to continue to look forward to see if he would get happiness.

In Spirit, we discover there is more to Hunter than meets the eye. You think you know him. You don't. You think he isn't broken. He is. I was blown away by how much Kemmerer was also to affect me. I didn't expect to adore Hunter's story as much as the other two because I was in love with the Merricks and I wasn't sure how I would feel with this guy having his own book, but it totally worked because he is family.
In Spark he began to befriend Gabriel and even though the others didn't really like him because of certain things that went down in the first book, but when Michael Merrick takes a chance on him, that's all he needs.

Hunter has always been torn between what he has always been taught and what he feels deep in his heart. It's always been a US and THEM kind of thing. The Guide and then there is the Merricks. When a new girl takes an interest in him, he thinks he has found the one person who may take his mind of everything that has been happening. Unbeknowest to him, not everyone is as they seem. Her agenda may be more than texting the cute boy in class. It may be more about something far sinister than one might wish.
Meet Kate. She has a way of getting people relaxed enough to open up. I suppose she has her own secrets, and when she meets Hunter, she thinks she can use him to her advantage, but is she also prepared for falling for someone she shouldn't.. and what would the consequences of that might be?
Kate is a girl of mystery. She is bold and fearless. She and Hunter have more in common than he might realize, and when her story unravels, he may either want to duck and hide, or run. Or a third option? Trust your instincts because sometimes you have to have faith in someone rather than thinking they are one type of person.

I thought their relationship was definitely interesting and I supported it. There was times where I didn't like Kate or what she was doing, but I understood why, because there was a greater force behind her that makes her motives look like child play.
Hunter and Kate's relationship takes an interesting turn when they suddenly find themselves on the same side and have to decide how to go about surviving to the next day. Not everyone is as forgiving and understanding as she.

What I loved most about this book was how Hunter finally found the family he needs. It doesn't come easy, but I loved the way he has found himself in the hearts of the Merricks. Hunter is just as messed up as the rest of them, which means he would fit right in.
The way Michael Merrick handles Hunter, I feel Michael identifies himself with Hunter in some ways during his teenage years. He takes Hunter under his wing because he doesn't want to see his life worse than it already is.
When we get involved in his personal life and you see the way his family life is, well, it's easy to understand why he deserves so much better and by being around the Merricks makes him feel some sort of family. I wanted to reach out and hug him on more than one occasion. The things he has been through, the things he has had to endure just made my head spin. Every one is messed up and has issues in some form or another, but Hunter... Ugh.   His book just made me understand him like  I never did before.

Brigid Kemmerer also achieved one thing you don't often see in YA these days. A shock worthy event that I had to double check to make sure I was reading it right. She sure is not your typical YA author, and for that is actually a great thing. You never know what to expect or what she will do next. Her books keep you on edge. Just when you think you know... your world will be then turned upside down and you'll have no idea why.

I absolutely can't wait for book 4 in the series. I know it's gonna be Nick's book and that for sure is going to be interesting to say the very least.

Rating: 5/5

Review: Spark by Brigid Kemmerer

Spark (Elemental, #2) by Brigid Kemmerer
Publisher: Allen & Unwin
Publication date: October 1st, 2012
Number of pages: 350 pgs
Format: Paperback
Purchase: Amazon | The Book Depository

EARTH. FIRE. AIR. WATER.

He could feel flames coming through the floor, looking for him. Sparks and ash rained down. He wasn't going to make it. He was going to fail. Again. Then a hand closed over his wrist and pulled, hard.

Gabriel Merrick plays with fire. Literally. Sometimes he can even control it. And sometimes he can’t. So when an arsonist wreaks havoc on his town all the signs point to Gabriel.

Layne is strangely drawn to him. Layne understands family problems, and she understands secrets. She has a few of her own.

Gabriel can’t let Layne know that the danger that’s right at his heels. But there are some risks he can’t help taking.

THE FUSE IS LIT…

FIRE. Hot guys. Strike a match. You're about to get hot!

I fell in love with this series starting with Chris's book and that took me long enough to read, for which I could slap myself for. I got around to reading this one and I could not have been any more pleased.

I adored Gabriel ever since the previous installment and couldn't wait to discover more about him and who would light his heart on fire.
His love interest I felt was perfect for him. Layne is someone in his class who helps him be better. Not just a twin to Nick, but someone all on his own. She makes him believe he can be his own person and be his own man who is capable of doing things just like anyone else.


I knew I would love anything about him, although I had no idea what would be in store for him. Not only did we discover oh SO much about who he is, but the book also dealt with his relationships with his brothers and Michael especially, who I felt they clashed so much because they were similar in ways they didn't want to acknowledge,
Gabriel had so many issues deep within himself he wasn't dealing with, and bit by bit, with the help of his newfound friendship (relationship?) with Layne, helped him come to grasp what he wanted out of his life and never to take anything or anyone for granted.
There were times in the book where I wanted to smack him, times where I wanted to hug him and reach to him. He is a complicated boy and more so than one would ever think in the beginning. He hardly shows how he really feels, but there are moments where you begin to understand him.

There was much progress as he begins to understand that he does not have to be a copycat of his perfect brother, Nick, but that he could be someone as well. He might screw up, but in the end, he means no harm and all wants is to be someone he doesn't feel he is worthy of being --- until Layne comes into his life.
Layne is the one driving force that makes him open up his eyes and appreciate the things he has. The people he has in his life, including his brothers, who are his best friends in the process. I loved their friendship and what grows into something so beautiful. It's interesting... he sees what Chris has with Becca and even though he may tease him for it, I don't think Gabriel ever thought he would have anything like that. He didn't think he was the sort who deserved anything more than he got.

I love these books because one thing they have going for them is character development. It was such a thing to witness to see Gabriel grow into this person who started out as someone different beforehand.

If you haven't read this series yet, GET A MOVE ON.  These books are not to be missed and you would not be disappointed.

Rating: 4.5/5