Review: Clean Sweep by Ilona Andrews

Clean Sweep by Ilona Andrews
Publication Date: December 3, 2013
Publisher: NYLA
Number of Pages: 175
Format: Ebook
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On the outside, Dina Demille is the epitome of normal. She runs a quaint Victorian Bed and Breakfast in a small Texas town, owns a Shih Tzu named Beast, and is a perfect neighbor, whose biggest problem should be what to serve her guests for breakfast. But Dina is...different: Her broom is a deadly weapon; her Inn is magic and thinks for itself. Meant to be a lodging for otherworldly visitors, the only permanent guest is a retired Galactic aristocrat who can’t leave the grounds because she’s responsible for the deaths of millions and someone might shoot her on sight. Under the circumstances, "normal" is a bit of a stretch for Dina.

And now, something with wicked claws and deepwater teeth has begun to hunt at night....Feeling responsible for her neighbors, Dina decides to get involved. Before long, she has to juggle dealing with the annoyingly attractive, ex-military, new neighbor, Sean Evans—an alpha-strain werewolf—and the equally arresting cosmic vampire soldier, Arland, while trying to keep her inn and its guests safe. But the enemy she’s facing is unlike anything she’s ever encountered before. It’s smart, vicious, and lethal, and putting herself between this creature and her neighbors might just cost her everything.

First I would like to thank Ilona Andrews in providing me with a free copy in exchange for my honest review.

Everything I pick up from them I instantly fall in love with, and with this is no exception. The world building is just amazing. I love that with all of their books the world isn't explained up front. It makes the book more mysterious, and the reader sitting there coming up with different theories. 

Dina is pretty kickass herself. And you have to feel bad for her, struggling to get by. Not to mention her parents just disappeared one day and no one has any clue what happened. What's a good book without a love interest or two? Although myself I preferred Sean. I wished there were a little more romance in it and that it was a little bit longer. But you take what you can get.

The book was exactly what I come to expect from a Ilona Andrews book. I think one of my favorite things about the book was the humor. There were parts that had me laughing so hard I was crying. If you haven't read this yet, you should. And the illustrations included was pure amazing.

Looks like this will be made into a series. That news made me beyond excited and already want more of this series. I'll be looking forward for the next installment impatiently.

Rating: 4/5

 

 

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

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
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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: Biting Bad by Chloe Neill

Biting Bad (Chicagoland Vampires #8) by Chloe Neill
Publication Date: August 6, 2013
Publisher: NAL Penguin
Number of Pages: 350
Format: Paperback
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Merit has been a vampire for only a short while, but she’s already seen a lifetime’s worth of trouble. She and her Master, centuries-old Ethan Sullivan, have risked their lives time and again to save the city they love. But not all of Chicago is loving them back.

Anti-vampire riots are erupting all over town, striking vampires where it hurts the most. A splinter group armed with Molotov cocktails and deep-seated hate is intent on clearing the fanged from the Windy City come hell or high water.

Merit and her allies rush to figure out who’s behind the attacks, who will be targeted next, and whether there’s any way to stop the wanton destruction. The battle for Chicago is just beginning, and Merit is running out of time.

Considering it's been about a month since I've read this, this review will be rather short.

It might of took eight books, but Merit and Ethan have finally some drama free relationship time. It was rather nice to see nothing interfering with their relationship for once.  They even go to Merit's parent's house for a family dinner. Which was probably one of my favorite scenes in the books.

But Chicago's vampire scene has never been quiet since Merit has joined its ranked. There's an anti-vampire group striking out and rioting hitting vampire houses and their safe locations. I had a good feeling who was behind it but not why, since some of the attacks didn't really destroy anything.

We do see Merit and Mallory getting somewhat back on track. And even a tiny bit of the shapeshifters, which is never enough. There was a mention back to the vision of that child that we assumed is somehow Ethan and Merit. And even foreshadowing that there could and may be a way for Merit to turned back human. Which honestly I think at this point she wouldn't. And I couldn't see Ethan turning back to a human.

This was probably one of my favorite books in the series. We got a little bit of everything. Including a jaw dropping cliff hanger, that no doubts sets up the next book. You can tell the series is winding down, and although it makes me sad I can't wait to see how it all ends.

Rating: 4/5

Review: Pivot Point by Kasie West

Pivot Point by Kasie West
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication date: February 12th, 2013
Number of pages: 343 pgs
Format: Hardcover
Purchase: Amazon | The Book Depository

Knowing the outcome doesn’t always make a choice easier . . .

Addison Coleman’s life is one big “What if?” As a Searcher, whenever Addie is faced with a choice, she can look into the future and see both outcomes. It’s the ultimate insurance plan against disaster. Or so she thought. When Addie’s parents ambush her with the news of their divorce, she has to pick who she wants to live with—her father, who is leaving the paranormal compound to live among the “Norms,” or her mother, who is staying in the life Addie has always known. Addie loves her life just as it is, so her answer should be easy. One Search six weeks into the future proves it’s not.

In one potential future, Addie is adjusting to life outside the Compound as the new girl in a Norm high school where she meets Trevor, a cute, sensitive artist who understands her. In the other path, Addie is being pursued by the hottest guy in school—but she never wanted to be a quarterback’s girlfriend. When Addie’s father is asked to consult on a murder in the Compound, she’s unwittingly drawn into a dangerous game that threatens everything she holds dear. With love and loss in both lives, it all comes down to which reality she’s willing to live through . . . and who she can’t live without.

There was so much talk about this book. A friend of mine loved it so much that it convinced me to buy it. Normally I would wait for a paperback, but I took the risk that I could like it enough to buy the paperback which was the only format available.

The moment I started reading it, I knew this was definitely my kind of book. I thought at first that it was a contemporary book, but when I read it, it was something else. I think it was probably half contemporary and half fantasy with special elements included.

This story, we are introduced to Addison has grown up in a world where everyone has a different ability. For Addison, her ability is to be able to search through different futures depending on what she or someone may or may not take. 
After her parents drop a bomb shell upon her that threatens to tear her family apart,  she has to decide who she would rather live with, her Mom in the place she has grown up in, or venture to somewhere new with her Dad, the human world where everything will be so unfamilar to her.
Deciding to search through her possible futures, Addie finds out what would happen if she stays or if she happens to leave.
In one possible future, Addie stays with her Mom and ends up dating the school's quarterback, and finds herself in a position and relationship she never wanted ton be in, but other than that, she couldn't be happier.  In the other future, Addie sees herself setting to her new surroundings, and for the first time, falls in love with a human boy.  But things become complicated when she gets involved in one of her mother's murder cases, and Addie finds herself in a position where not everything is what she thought it would be.

This novel battles many decisions.  From what you think you should do, and what your heart is telling you. From dating someone who everyone wants you to date to someone who fall in love with against your own judgment. From a world full of supernatural elements to one that has none of that.

Addison was someone who I adored right off the bat. She was a character I think many people could relate on, especially when it comes to when she was dealing with her family and personal issues, even her issues when it comes to her lovelife.  She was a great character. She has to make decisions based on what she felt in her heart, and what was best for her and in the long run, no matter what consequences may occur.

At first,  I enjoyed both love interests, but as the story went on... my perspective changed and I definitely leaned more towards one than the other when information came to light about one of them and things started to change with particular actions taken.

I even loved the supernatural elements to this story. I can't wait for the sequel to see what will happen with Addie next.

Rating: 5/5

Review: Magic Bites by Illona Andrews

Magic Bites (Kate Daniels #1) by Ilona Andrews
Publication Date: April 1, 2007
Publisher: Ace
Number of Pages: 260
Format: Paperback
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Atlanta would be a nice place to live, if it weren't for the magic. When the magic is up, rogue mages cast their spells and monsters appear, while guns refuse to fire and cars fail to start. But then technology returns, and the magic recedes as unpredictably as it arose, leaving all kinds of paranormal problems in its wake.Kate Daniels is a down-on-her-luck mercenary who makes her living cleaning up these magical problems. But when Kate's guardian is murdered, her quest for justice draws her into a power struggle between two strong factions within Atlanta's magic circles.The Masters of the Dead, necromancers who can control vampires, and the Pack, a paramilitary clan of shapechangers, blame each other for a series of bizarre killings-and the death of Kate's guardian may be part of the same mystery. Pressured by both sides to find the killer, Kate realizes she's way out of her league-but she wouldn't have it any other way.

Doing re reads before a next release book is always fun. You pick up things you didn't noticed before. Enter Atlanta in a post Shift world. Magic comes in unpredictable waves and knocks out all technology.  Meet Kate Daniels, mercenary who can barely scrape by. When Greg,the Order's knight-diveiner and Kate's guardian and only family she has left is killed in the middle of a job Kate is out for justice and blood.

It's unsure in what time the novel is set in, but it seems to be a time in the near future. Kate is definitely kick ass and doesn't take any shit. You can tell immediately she's hiding a deep secret, with her talk about hiding who she is and burning any of her spilled blood. Not to mention that later in the book there's talk about power and magic running through her blood, and hinting she knows a lot more Roland, the mysterious leader of the People, and who he really is. Even though this is a re read, I'm intrigued by these mysteries and then I remember I know the truths. With knowing the truth's it's a lot easier to pick up on the hints and foreshadow of who Kate is.

And of course investigating a very high profile murder warrants the attention of the Beast Lord, ruler of the shapeshifters in Atlanta area. At first Curran and Kate don't get along, they push each other buttons. Well it's not much better towards the end of the book either. But you can't help but smile at them. He even saves her life.

If you haven't read this series yet, you should. It's one of those that will become an instant favorite in one book. Urban fantasy at it's finest.

Rating: 5/5

 

Review: Bound to Shadows by Keri Arthur

Bound to Shadows (Riley Jensen Guardian #8) by Keri Arthur
Publication Date: October 27, 2009
Publisher: Dell
Number of Pages: 346
Format: Paperback
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Part vampire, part werewolf, Riley Jenson knows what can happen when vamps don’t play well with others. But she’s never seen anything like this: a series of brutal murders surrounding the latest hot spot for vampire-human hookups—and the victims aren’t just killed, they’re beheaded. Now Riley is launching into action, toying with a seductive—and highly suspicious—club owner, and finding herself in the middle of another mystery: women being killed one by one, without a trace of violence.

For Riley, solving multiple cases—in a world going mad with human and vampire passions—would have been tough enough. Instead she has two jealous lovers on her hands: Kye Murphy, the amber-eyed werewolf who makes Riley’s wolf blood howl—and Quinn, the cool, elegant vamp who has over a thousand years’ experience at fulfilling women’s desires. While she’s busy juggling these two sexy beasts, Riley’s detective work takes a stunningly violent turn. Finding a murderer is now a matter of life and death. Especially since the killer has long since found her . . .

As far as Riley is concern she could care less if she sees Kye Murphy ever again, even if he's her soul mate. And Kye feels the same way. Yet while she's investigating her new case Kye shows up again. And not only does he show up, but apparently he has had a small change of heart and can't stay away from Riley.

You start to feel bad for the girl. Seems like she can't catch a break from the gruesome cases. But having issues in her love life, she throws herself into work. Not to mention that Rhoan and his soul mate Liander has decided they want a child and form their own pack, and they want to use one of Riley's eggs so it'll be her child too. I don't know why she hesitated to give them an answer. All along all she says she wants is to find her soul mate and to have children. Yet she chooses to stay with Quinn, who will never be her soul mate and can't even understand the werewolf culture nor does he approve it; which I do have to say he has gotten better over time of trying to be understanding, and not only can he not give Riley children he wouldn't want children. Yes Riley might love him, but sometimes love isn't enough.

And as with previous books the small amount of Quinn in the one was way to much for me. And we barely got to see Kade, Rhoan, and Liander. The series would be so much better off seeing more of them, especially since this series started because Rhoan was missing.

The ending was surprising, I had suspected it along with Riley, but I was hopping it wasn't true. I had really liked Kye. Even though he did have Rhoan shot and threatened to kill everyone Riley cares about, I was really hoping for a turnaround. But he was never given a fighting chance from day one. And that pisses me off. Granted he turned out to be crazy at the end and was even I couldn't forgive him for his sins. There's two surprising deaths at the end. Ok maybe just one surprising death. The other one was kind of given. But the one that shocked me the most made me so mad! There's a part of me that is still extremely pissed off and even considered not even reading the last and final book.  

Rating: 3/5

Review: Grasping at Eternity by Karen Amanda Hooper

Grasping at Eternity (Kindrily #1) by Karen Amanda Hooper
Publication Date: May 25, 2012
Publisher: Starry Sky Publishing
Number of Pages: 328
Format: Paperback
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Leave it to Maryah Woodsen to break the one rule that will screw up eternity: Never erase your memories.

Before entering this life, Maryah did the unthinkable—she erased. Now, at seventeen years old, she’s clueless that her new adoptive family has known her for centuries, that they are perpetually reincarnated souls, and that they have supernatural abilities. Oh, and she's supposed to love (not despise) Nathan, the green-eyed daredevil who saved her life.

Nathan is convinced his family’s plan to spark Maryah's memory is hopeless, but his love for her is undying. After spending (and remembering) so many lifetimes together, being around an empty version of his soulmate is heart shattering. He hates acting like a stalker, but has no choice because the evil outcast who murdered Maryah in their last lifetime is still after her.

While Maryah’s hunter inches closer, she and Nathan make assumptions and hide secrets that rip them further apart. Maryah has to believe in the magic within her, Nathan must have faith in the power of their love, and both need to grasp onto the truth before they lose each other forever—and discover just how lonely eternity can be.

Maryah's life it turned upside down the day her parents and her twin brother was murder. Not to mention she barely escaped with her life and ended up in a coma for two weeks. She decides to leave her old life behind, and what little family she has left; her aunt, uncle, and cousin and best friend Krista behind and live her mom's best friend from childhood who was left her appointed guardian.

It's an adjustment, especially since it seems like certain members of the family hate her for no reason. Or why everyone seems to keep mentioning Nathan. Which when Maryah comes face to face with, is completely shock to realized he's her death angel she keeps dreaming about. Which he actually stays away from Maryah for majority of the book, which is fine by her since she can't stand him. But who could really blame him? It must be torture to be near your soul mate and for them not to remember you or your past lives together.

I've always loved the concept of reincarnated souls, especially soul mates. This book is definitely a page turner. Another book I couldn't put down and read in one day. I will say throughout the book I was confused on how some of the members of the kindrily were related to each other in this life in regards to human terms. I was hoping that her parents were reincarnated souls, but turns out not to be the case. There's another person that turns out to be part of their kindrily which I suspected from the beginning.

The book was broken down in two POVs, Maryah and Nathan's. I'm not big on multiple POVs in YA, especially when authors tries to do one as a guy. It's tricky, and most can't get it down. Comes off as juvenile and annoying. I'm happy to report that this isn't the case. I adore Nathan, and how whatever he does is for Maryah. Maryah did make friends with River, the school's most popular guy, not to mention all the girls swoon over him. I never understood the friendship. River has an ego the size of the United States, not to mention he's a douche. Or how he keeps pressuring Maryah to date him when it's obvious she just wants friendship. I did get excited one of the minor characters share the same name as me. Wasn't thrilled that I was initially River's girlfriend.  But River has ulterior motives for getting close to Maryah, and it just may put her life in danger again.

Not sure if everyone else feels the same, but I felt a Twightish vibe to this book. Now don't let that scare you off, I just noticed similarities. But this book holds it's on, and really is nothing like Twilight. There was a part where Maryah goes four wheeling, but it ends up being dirt bikes, and uses the word four wheeling one more time. It shouldn't bug me, but for a person who loves four wheeling myself, there's a difference.

I do love how in the end Maryah remembered Nathan. She didn't get all of her memories back, but it's a start. And her twin brother, Mikey, comes back in an unexpected way. Which I felt how he came back was a little weird.

I'm anxious for the next book to come out. This easily in one book made my favorites list. I'm looking forward to finding out the answers still lingering, especially why did Maryah erase in the first place.

Rating: 5/5

 

Mini review: The blood Countess, The Spider Goddess & The Skeleton Key by Tara Moss

Pandora English is no ordinary small town orphan. When she's invited to live with her mysterious Great-Aunt Celia in New York City, she seizes the opportunity to escape her stifling hometown break from her tragic past and make it as a writer. Things, however, are not what she is expecting. For starters, her great-aunt's gothic mansion is in a mist-wreathed Manhattan suburb that doesn't appear on maps. And then there's Celia herself - a former designer to the stars of Hollywood's Golden Age - who is elegant, unnaturally young and always wearing a veil. Pandora lands a job at a fashion magazine and her first assignment is covering the A-list launch of the latest miracle cream, BloodofYouth. But something is not right about the product, nor Athanasia, the drop-dead beautiful face of the brand. It seems there may be a secret ingredient in BloodofYouth, a secret worth killing for..

I was given The Skeleton Key to review, but since I hadn't read the first two, I decided to track down the books to read and review them first. So while I am quite behind on my review for Book 3, I knew I had to read the first two first. I'm picky like that.

In the first installment to this Pandora English series, Tara Moss takes us on a journey as we discover a young girl, Pandora, 19 years old travels to New York City to live with her Great Aunt after not being able to turn down the enticing invitation.

Upon arriving in New York, she soon finds herself in a whole new world she couldn't have expected if she tried.  Gaining an position at a top-fashion magazine, Pandora, the same name as herself, her world begins to turn upside down when her first assignment at work is covering the latest miracle cream product, but Pandora quickly discovers there is just something not quite right about this miracle cream. There is a real possibility that it does more than making your skin look younger... something so far sinister is at work, and if she doesn't discover something fast...it will be deadly to everyone around her.
Pandora's new life is everything she hoped it would be. Exiciting, full of life and new experiences, but when she starts to see the dead, she realizes that she might not be so normal after all.

This is a story of a new beginning, finding ones self, and understanding that not everything is as it seems.

I really liked this novel. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I found myself pleasantly surprised.

Verdict: 3.5 / 5

It's been two months since Pandora English left her small hometown to live with her mysterious great-aunt in a haunted mansion in Spektor – the fog-wreathed suburb of Manhattan that doesn't appear on any map. With the help of her great-aunt and the beautiful – but dead – Lieutenant Luke, Pandora is beginning to understand the significance of the Lucasta family heritage her late mother kept secret from her. Pandora is heir to a great gift. And with that comes frightening responsibility...

Meanwhile, she seems doomed to be forever underestimated in the mortal world. Her fashion editor boss doesn't seem to know she exists. But New York needs Pandora's special gifts. There is a new designer in town, and her ambitions extend far beyond taking over the fashion world one knit at a time...

It's been two months since Pandora English arrived in New York. Two months since her life changed and she found herself in the world of the supernatural.
In the next part of her journey, she discovers what it means to be the 7th of the Lucasta family.

Pandora, ever since she arrived has formed some connection with Lieutenant Luke, but there is one problem: He is a ghost, who she can only see. They have a complicated relationship, but he seems to be the only one that understands her. Whether that's because he understands what it is like to live in this kind of world, or something else. But it doesn't seem any other guy can compare, unfortunately.

That's not the only thing she has to deal with. There are Athanasia and her followers, who are bound to get revenge on Pandora for staking Athanasia previously. Of course they don't care it was done in self defense, because they are only out for themselves. It sure doesn't help when she has Dues, a head-honcho vampire protecting her against the pack of girls. 

The plot. Was quite interesting and we got to learn some new information. While in the previous book it was about Athanasia and her product, which was blood related, this book we start to understand more about the world.
A new woman has turned up in town, and her Aunt-Celia seems to know more about her than Pandora does, and as events develop, she discovers that she can do more than work at a magazine.

I enjoyed this book much more than the previous, as you start to come to grips with the supernatural world, what Pandora's possible role in it, and that she was always meant to come to Spektor. 

Verdict: 4/5

In the third Pandora English mystery, Pandora is still negotiating her double life as a lowly assistant at a New York fashion magazine with the reality that she has great supernatural powers and responsibilities.

With the full moon set to rise once again, Pandora has a very special date looming. Her beautiful spirit guide, Civil War soldier Lieutenant Luke, will be a flesh-and-blood man, if only for the night, and she hasn't been able to stop thinking about it. But a chance encounter with playboy Jay Rockwell sees that very human attraction start all over again – even though Jay doesn't remember their previous relationship, or the fact that Pandora saved him from a gang of ill-tempered undead supermodels.

Meanwhile, Pandora – with her special skeleton key – is slowly unlocking the mysteries of the haunted mansion where she lives with her great aunt Celia. What sinister experiments did the architect Dr Edmund Barrett conduct there before he died? Where is his laboratory? And what are the strange noises emanating from the basement?

On the centenary of the mysterious fire that supposedly killed Dr Barrett, he returns to the mansion. He has a message for Pandora. But he has brought with him a dark force that threatens to tear apart the delicate balance between the worlds of the dead and living...

In the third Pandora novel,The Skeleton Key, Pandora learns more about her role as the Seventh, and more about The End of the World. Her abilities start to manifest and she begins to understand more about them and herself as well.

We learn more about the origins of the Mansion, and the occupants who lived there to begin with.
After some digging around, Pandora discovers Dr. Barrett's lab, and what lies beneath it. The mysteries soon become complicated when Pandora finds Dr. Barrett and his wife, who are both deceased, and Pandora makes some discoveries that she just might regret.

Like the title of the book, The Skeleton Key refers to a special key given to Pandora by her Great-Aunt Celia that opens one of the many doors in the mansion she has longed to explore.

In terms of the romance, things start to happen between Pandora and her Lieutenant Luke, as there is one night where the moon is full that he can come out in the flesh. The pair then decide to make a date out if it, and Pandora takes him one place he has not been in many years: outside. New York City has changed since the last time he has been out there.. technically, the world has changed itself in over 150 years that he has been dead.
I adore these two. Their relationship is not an easy one, well considering he is dead. But when during their anticipated date outside, he suddenly disappears.... and when he returns, let's say.. he isn't exactly the same.
Can Pandora discover what is wrong going on before things get a little too crazy?

The ending to this book makes me look forward to the next installment in this series.  I urge Tara to write quickly. I can't wait to take myself back into the world of Pandora and what lies through it.

Thanks to Pan Macmillan for sending me this copy of the book.

Verdict: 4.5/5

Review: Whispers at Moonrise by C.C Hunter

Whispers at Moonrise (Shadow Falls #4) by C.C Hunter
Publisher: St Martin's
Publication date: October 2nd, 2012
Number of pages: 383
Format: Paperback
Purchase: Amazon | The Book Depository

Even at a camp for supernatural teens, Kylie Galen has never been normal. Not only can she see ghosts, but she doesn’t seem to belong to any one species—she exhibits traits from them all. As Kylie struggles to unlock the secrets of her identity, she begins to worry that Lucas will never be able to accept her for what she is, and what she isn’t…a werewolf.  With his pack standing in their way, Kylie finds herself turning more and more to Derek, the only person in her life who’s willing to accept the impossible.



As if life isn’t hard enough, she starts getting visits from the ghost of Holiday, her closest confidante.  Trouble is, Holiday isn’t dead…not yet anyway.  Now Kylie must race to save one of her own from an unseen danger before it’s too late—all while trying to stop her relationship with Lucas from slipping away forever.   In a world of constant confusion, there’s only one thing Kylie knows for sure.  Change is inevitable and all things must come to an end…maybe even her time at Shadow Falls.

This novel picks up right from where the previous one left off. Kylie has faced one ghost problem after another since this series started, and this book is no different.
Kylie gets a visit from a ghost who takes on the appearance of Holiday. She doesn't understand why or how, but she knows she has to get to the bottom of what is going on before it does become a reality.

Her relationships aren't any easier either. Her relationship with Lucas is something his pack doesn't like, for many reasons.. But what happens when Lucas does something that makes Kylie believe that everything between them has been a lie. He doesn't understand who and what she is, and doesn't seem like he would ever be comfortable with, while Derek on the other hand is there for her and accepts her, with no questions.
Can her heart make up its mind before it's too late?

I really adored this book. I have no shame in admitting that I am Team Derek, and after this book.. I really hope she ends up with him, because I feel he loves her for who she is... and you can see the differences between he and Lucas, who just lies and betrays her. If she ends up with Lucas, I just don't think that is ending a very good message to girls in the world about the kind of relationships one should allow yourself to be in.

My 2nd pairing would have to be Holiday and Burnett. I just love their relationship that has progressed throughout the series, and this book just had me swooning. There is so much to love about their banter and how far they have come. They both have had issues, she more than him, but at some point you have to let the other person inside to show how you feel.

I know, there is one more book left, I just hope it ends on a note that is well done by the characters and gives a happy ending to our characters, one way or another.

Verdict: 4.5 / 5

Awake at Dawn (Shadow Falls #2) by C.C Hunter

Awake at Dawn (Shadow Falls #2) by c.c Hunter
Publisher: St Martins Griffin
Publication date: October 11th, 2011
Number of pages: 383
Format: Paperback
Purchase a copy: Amazon | The Book Depository

Step into the world of Shadow Falls, a camp that helps teens tap into their special…talents. Once you visit, you’ll never forget it—and you’ll never, ever be the same.

From the moment Kylie Galen arrived at Shadow Falls Camp, she’s had one burning question: What am I? Surrounded by vampires, werewolves, shape-shifters, fairies and witches, Kylie longs to figure out her own supernatural identity…and what her burgeoning powers mean. And now she’ll need them more than ever, because she’s being haunted by a new spirit who insists that someone Kylie knows—and loves—will die before the end of the summer. If only she only knew who she was supposed to save. And how…

But giving Kylie the most trouble is her aching heart. Gorgeous werewolf Lucas left camp with another girl, but he’s still visiting Kylie in her dreams. And Derek, a sexy half Fae who’s always been there for her when she needed him, is pushing to get more serious—and growing impatient, especially when Lucas returns. Kylie knows she needs to decide between the boys, and it’s tearing her up inside. 

Yet romance will have to wait, because something from the dark side of the supernatural world is hiding in Shadow Falls. It’s about to threaten everything she holds dear…and bring her closer to her destiny.

Ever since Kylie arrived at Shadow Falls, she has wanted to know what exactly she is, and in this book she is still trying to work that out.
One thing she knows for sure is that she can see and communicate to the dead, she isn't sure why or what that has got to do with what she is, but it's something, right? And speaking of the dead ---- Kylie finds herself being haunted by a ghosts who insists that someone close to Kylie will end soon.
As if that's not morbid enough....

Kyle also hands her hands full of romantic prospects. Her old childhood friend, Lucas who she shared a kiss with and then left with his she-wolf packmate to a place unknown and has yet to be heard of since, but that doesn't stop from him invading her dreams... whether she is doing or, Lucas.. that is the question.
And then we have hot fae named Derek, who has made his feelings and intentions clear to her, but when Lucas returns from his time away, Derek and Kylie will need to figure out where she stands with the both of them.

I really liked the mystery surrounding the ghost and trying to figure out who was going to die. It's hard to communicate with some, many ghosts because not many of them remember everything about themselves, how they got to be where they were... less alone answers to questions that Kylie might have.

The relationship between Kyle and Derek heats up, and then becomes complicated. I totally understand why Derek does what he does, because he doesn't want to be the 2nd choice. He wants her to be sure that it is him that she wants to be with, and that can't happen until she figured out whatever feelings she may or may not have for Lucas.
I am firmly on Team Derek, and have been since the beginning. This book only made my stand on that very sold and clear.

Kylie seemed just as frustrated as I in not knowing what she was. I look forward in discovering just that is, and I am sure, whatever it is, it's different than anyone else.

Verdict: 4.5 / 5

Review: The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater

The Raven Boys (Raven Cycle #1) by Maggie Stiefvater
Publisher: Scholastic
Publication date: September 19th, 2012
Number of pages: 454
Format: Paperback
Purchase:  Amazon | The Book Depository

Blue has spent the majority of her sixteen years being told that if she kisses her true love, he will die. When Blue meets Gansey’s spirit on the corpse road she knows there is only one reason why – either he is her true love or she has killed him.

Determined to find out the truth, Blue becomes involved with the Raven Boys, four boys from the local private school (lead by Gansey) who are on a quest to discover Glendower – a lost ancient Welsh King who is buried somewhere along the Virginia ley line. Whoever finds him will be granted a supernatural favour.

Never before has Blue felt such magic around her. But is Gansey her true love? She can’t imagine a time she would feel like that, and she is adamant not to be the reason for his death. Where will fate lead them?

If Blue kisses her true her, he will die.... 

Maggie Stiefvater comes with a new series. The Raven Boys is a story that will captivate you until the last line. It brings together magic, romance, destiny and a mythological being as it involves a group of boys and one teenage girl.
This story will leave readers breathless, and eager to turn page after page as you find yourself deep within a tale of relatable characters, mythology and perfectly-wound friendships, it will pull at our heartstrings and emotions to no end.

Blue is a strong teenager who has the strangest family, and has always come across as a bit off with her psychic connections. She had been told from many people that if she were to kiss her true love... he will die, or she will kill him. From that point on she had told herself she would never fall in love...
She has always been the kind of girl who does what her family tells her to. Smart. Sensible.. that is, until she meets a group of boys and their journey for something so unbelievable. The more time she spends with them, the more she starts to believe that magic is indeed real.

The friendship between The Raven Boys is one of my favourite things about this story. They each have their own reason for going along with this journey. They each have their own story which will make you weep for them. They all have their own secrets they keep.
They are all bonded together through emotional pacts, history and loyalty toward one another. It's friendships that will keep you invested in the story as more information about each other comes to light.

This was a novel I had been wanting to read since I heard about it, and it lived up to all the hype it had received since the release. It was a beautifully written story, with characters to love and root for, a romance in the making, and a mystery pitted with supernatural elements. It's a book like I have never read before. A book that exceeded all my expectations and was nothing like I thought it would be.
For something that I assumed would be romance-based, I couldn't have been more wrong.
While the story might be Blue's, but it is also written in third-person so we get to see the boys, their pasts as they interact with Blue.

Maggie created a fantastic novel, and I look forward to the second installment to see what is in store for us, and the characters and the story. I anticipate seeing how the soon-to-be romance between Blue and Gansey develops over the course of the series. You see little bits of visions as to how things will be, and it should be interesting to see how this Blue and Gansey become those in the visions Blue gets during the book.

This book is a must read for all fans of Maggie Stiefvater.

Verdict: 5/5

Review: Beautiful Redemption by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

Beautiful Redemption (Caster Chronicles #4) by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl
Publisher: Little Brown
Publication date: October 23rd, 2012
Number of pages: 451
Format: Paperback
Buy: Amazon | The Book Depository

Is death the end . . . or only the beginning?

Ethan Wate always dreamed of leaving the stifling Southern town of Gatlin. But he never dreamt that finding love with Lena Duchannes would drive him away. Lena is a Caster girl whose supernatural powers unveiled a secretive and cursed side of Gatlin, so powerful it forced him to make a terrible sacrifice.

Now Ethan must find a way to return to Lena - and Gatlin - as she vows to do whatever it takes to get him back. Even if it means trusting old enemies or risking their loved ones' lives. Can Ethan and Lena rewrite their fate and their spellbinding love story in this stunning finale to the Beautiful Creatures series?

And here we have it. The conclusion of a four-part saga, of love, mystery, secrets and redemption.

The end of Beautiful Chaos, we were left with a shocking decision and act made by Ethan that I couldn't see what would happen next, nor where we would be left in regards to Ethan and his relationship with Lena, and everyone else he loves.

In this spellbinding finale to an amazing and addicting series comes all the answers we could want and need. Changes are made. Events transpire and we have come to expect shocking reveals.
Ethan finds himself in a place he never thought he would be. Lena and his family can't seem to accept he is gone and will do anything to bring him back, if possible. While he did made the ultimate sacrifice, it's not what  Ethan thought it would be. He is too is willing to go the great lengths to get back to the ones we loves.

This story comes to a climating end for our beloved characters. I applaud Kami and Margaret for bringing us this unique story. For these amazing characters and the gorgeous town of Gatlin where nothing is as it seems.

The love between Ethan and Lena has no bounds, and there wasn't anything these two would not do for one another. The moment they met... that was it. While they have had their ups and down, and obstacles they have had to face, but in the end... love really was the key, and they are better for one another than they are apart.
Linc and Ridley, now their on and off relationship has been one of my favourite things about this series since the very beginning, and in this book we finally get the payoff we have been waiting for the longest time now. This is probably one of the most complicated relationships in this series, but just seeing where they ended up just made everything worthwhile..

There sure was some heartbreaking scenes, new revelations about events and characters we know and love, but what series doesn't come with risks?
I'm sad this is the end, but I look forward to see this series on the big screen. I hope it does well, so we can continue to see this series played out on screen.

Kudos to the authors. They are a great combination and I look forward to their future works, together and separate. A force to be reckoned with. One that rivals Nancy Holder & Debbie Viguie.

Verdict:  4.5 /  5

Review: Beautiful Chaos by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

Beautiful Chaos (Caster Chronicles #3) by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl
Publisher: Little Brown
Publication date: October 18th, 2011
Number of pages: 518
Format: Paperback
Buy: Amazon | The Book Depository
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Ethan Wate thought he was getting used to the strange, impossible events happening in Gatlin, his small Southern town. But now that Ethan and Lena have returned home, strange and impossible have taken on new meanings. Swarms of locusts, record-breaking heat, and devastating storms ravage Gatlin as Ethan and Lena struggle to understand the impact of Lena's Claiming. Even Lena's family of powerful Supernaturals is affected - and their abilities begin to dangerously misfire. As time passes, one question becomes clear: What — or who — will need to be sacrificed to save Gatlin?

For Ethan, the chaos is a frightening but welcome distraction. He's being haunted in his dreams again, but this time it isn't by Lena - and whatever is haunting him is following him out of his dreams and into his everyday life. Even worse, Ethan is gradually losing pieces of himself — forgetting names, phone numbers, even memories. He doesn't know why, and most days he's too afraid to ask.

Sometimes there isn't just one answer or one choice. Sometimes there's no going back. And this time there won't be a happy ending.

In the third installment to Kami and Margaret's Caster Chronicles, we find it has been two months since the events of the previous book. Everyone is trying to deal with the reprecussions of the fallout of Lena claiming herself. It's not all good.
The town has gone crazy, and Link's Mom is talking like it's the end of days.
She just may be right.

Ridley is trying to come to terms with her now-mortal status, and it ain't good. You would think this is the first time she has been ordinary and without any magical powers, but I suppose when you experience that sort of power to go without it would be as if you are missing something crucial and you just aren't the same without it.

Suddenly Ethan starts to get another moon song speaking of Eighteen Moons.. and he and Lena start to wonder who it refers to, since Lena's birthday is far off so it can't possibly be talking about her.
It's a race against time as they try to discover the answer to the riddle those songs are usually associated with.

If I am honest, this book didn't get that good until the 2nd half. I felt things were dragging on, and I wondered where things were heading.
Ridley annoyed me to a point, and I felt so bad for Link.. who clearly really likes her, more than she likes him.
But by the end of the novel I really liked it, and the cliffhanger.. wow.. I can't even imagine what the next book is going to be like.

There was some interesting developments, and some new and some returnee characters have come back into the fold.
One of the reasons I was drawn to this series was that it was narrated by a male protagonist.. You just don't find that very often nowaways. And while it did take awhile to get used to.. I think I couldn't imagine this series any other way.

I was glad we got to see Ethan's dad and see how he was dealing now that he has come back to the land of the living. I wondered if he was going to stay locked into his study forever.
You discover more about Link and how he plays a bigger role in this book than he had before. With him now quarter of an Incubus, and a good part of this book deals with his kind.
We also get to see more of Lena's mother, Sarafine and more of her past with Lena's father. It was good to get an insight of what happened all those years ago when Sarafine, whose name was Izabel before becoming dark and how she became who she have come to see her today.

And then there is the book's evil. Abraham. He is who is behind pretty much everything as he was in the previous book. He really was one bastard, even dead. I wish so much on him, and none of it is good.

Verdict:  5/5

Review: Beautiful Darkness by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

Beautiful Darkness (Caster Chronicles #2) by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl
Publisher: Little Brown
Publication date: October 12th, 2010
Number of pages: 503
Format: Paperback
Buy: Amazon | The Book Depository
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Ethan Wate used to think of Gatlin, the small Southern town he had always called home, as a place where nothing ever changed. Then he met mysterious newcomer Lena Duchannes, who revealed a secret world that had been hidden in plain sight all along. A Gatlin that harbored ancient secrets beneath its moss-covered oaks and cracked sidewalks. A Gatlin where a curse has marked Lena's family of powerful Supernaturals for generations. A Gatlin where impossible, magical, life-altering events happen.

Sometimes life-ending.

Together they can face anything Gatlin throws at them, but after suffering a tragic loss, Lena starts to pull away, keeping secrets that test their relationship. And now that Ethan's eyes have been opened to the darker side of Gatlin, there's no going back. Haunted by strange visions only he can see, Ethan is pulled deeper into his town's tangled history and finds himself caught up in the dangerous network of underground passageways endlessly crisscrossing the South, where nothing is as it seems.

This book picks up the story a few months after Beautiful Creatures left, as the characters deal with the consequences of the events from the previous book.
Lena is depressed as she deals with her personal loss, as her boyfriend, Ethan tries to help and be there for her. Ridley has found herself vulnerable, and more so now than ever before, and she isn't handling it very well.
Not to mention having to attend High School? Go figure.
The relationship between Ridley and Linc reaches new lengths and is one of my favourite parts of this novel. In book 1, they were this fun thing where she liked to mess with him and him with her. But in Beautiful Darkness, you start to see that Ridley doesn't like competition when it comes to this guy and might feel she isn't good enough for him if she is just ordinary without any special talents. If she has to compete with human girls? Ridiculous.
Lincoln has found himself with new abilities after being attacked by an Icubus and he has to learn everything about who he is now all over again.

We have new characters, such as new guy, John Breed.. and Liv, an assistant at the library come into play and their roles within the caster role become evident as the story moves on.

The relationship between our core characters, Ethan and Lena go through some struggles as they both battle with things that are going on around them.

This was a great sequel to Beautiful Creatures, even though I did feel things were dragging on a bit, but the end was definitely interesting and made me itch for the next book. I feel this was the calm before the upcoming storm. Something big and epic is upon the horizon, I can feel it.

Verdict: 4/5

Review: Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

Beautiful Creatures (Caster Chronicles #1) by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl
Publication date: December 1st, 2009
Publisher: Little Brown
Number of pages: 563
Format: Paperback
Buy: Amazon | The Book Depository
Add to Goodreads

There were no surprises in Gatlin County.
We were pretty much the epicenter of the middle of nowhere.
At least, that's what I thought.
Turns out, I couldn't have been more wrong.
There was a curse.
There was a girl.
And in the end, there was a grave.

Lena Duchannes is unlike anyone the small Southern town of Gatlin has ever seen, and she's struggling to conceal her power and a curse that has haunted her family for generations. But even within the overgrown gardens, murky swamps and crumbling graveyards of the forgotten South, a secret cannot stay hidden forever.

Ethan Wate, who has been counting the months until he can escape from Gatlin, is haunted by dreams of a beautiful girl he has never met. When Lena moves into the town's oldest and most infamous plantation, Ethan is inexplicably drawn to her and determined to uncover the connection between them.

In a town with no surprises, one secret could change everything.

In the first of a four-book saga comes a new world of the supernatural that will trace you, entice you and make you flip through page after page.
This is a romantic supernatural love story of not only about two young lovers destined not only just for each other, but also to change the world.

We meet our protagonist, Ethan Wate, is a sixteen year-old teenager living in a small town of Gatlin where everybody knows one another; parents, students and the like. It's not often that the people get treated to a newcomer, and when it does happen..it's as if Christmas morning has arrived.
It's quite rare when you discover a book series where you have a male protagonist. It may have become more so these days, but it was a nice surprise to discover a different change of pace. It supplies you with a different vibe to a book vs from a female protagonist.

Ethan's life changes quickly with the arrival of Lena Duchannes, the neice of the town's shut-in, who not only takes Ethan by surprise but he also discovers she happens to be the very girl he has been dreaming about for months.

Gatlin soon becomes a place where nobody will never forget. It's a place where the caster world becomes its full focus and Ethan, Lena nor anyone will be able see it as just Gatlin, a boring and ordinary town.
There are secrets that lie beneath and through the town, away from the human eye, and if you start to dig and find yourself in their world... well, you'll discover a whole new world you may not be ready for.

The relationship between Ethan and Lena was done beautifully, and so natural. It's certainly your ordinary love story, what these two have goes back longer than either one of them understand, not initially that is.
Two young teenagers that, even though their kinds aren't meant to co-exist and be together, there is something that is pulling them to a point where nothing else is an option. Love is a choice in which they have no control over.

We have some other fascinating characters including Ethan's best friend, Linc and Lena's wayward cousin, Ridley, and I have a feeling these two might have something, but good luck in trying to get them to admit it.

This is a crazy, action-filled adventure as we go through the past and discover that not everything as it seems, and there is more to it than anyone thinks.

Verdict: 5/5