Review: The Bermudez Triangle by Maureen Johnson

First words
When I found this book, I was actually looking for a different book by Maureen Johnson. I picked this book up instead when I couldn't find the other, but was slightly skeptical because of the pink and purple overly girl cover that adorns my copy (Note: it's not the one in the picture here!). However, once again I'm glad that the cover is the last thing I judge a book by, because it was actually brilliant!

So, what's it about?Nina, Mel and Avery - The Bermudez Triangle.

Best friends, inseparable from the age of 11, but when Nina leaves for the summer to go on a pre-college course, that changes.

When Nina returns, (with a eco-geek for a boyfriend), her two best friends are acting strange. They no longer want to do everything together with Nina, yet she can't figure out why.

Then she catches them in a changing room . . . and they're kissing.

"It used to be a triangle, but now three's a crowd."*

Thoughts and opinions
Well, I can think of more than a few books I've read that focus around, or at least have secondary characters that are gay, yet a much fewer that are lesbian. I feel books like this are so, so, so important to have, especially when we're seeing it from three different peoples point of view. Not only does this book deal with coming out, discovering sexual identity and the views of society on homosexual relationships, it also shows the struggle behind the relationship, and the fact that in that respect and so many more, it's like any  heterosexual relationship.

Also, as well as seeing it from both Mel and Avery's point of views, we follow Nina as she discovers their relationship,  and how it feels to be the odd one out, when your best friends start going out. Nina doesn't have it all easy either - she's dealing with having a long distance relationship, and also keeping up with her position as head of the student council.

Also, I want to give a mention to Parker, who works at a restaurant along with Mel and Avery. Basically, I love him. He's sweet, funny and kind - but I'll let you learn how he fits into the story yourself!

The only thing that ever annoyed me in the story, is a couple of choices Nina makes about her relationship. Really though, that's completely personal, and a different reader may feel that they understand the final choice she makes.

The pacing of this book is, of course, brilliant, as is the writing style. I always sit down with a book by Maureen Johnson and then don't get up again before I'm finished! She manages to keep humor and laughter right on the surface, yet can quickly change in an instant to deal with the more serious and difficult scenes.

Final verdict
Incredibly funny, yet highly thought provoking, this book doesn't shy away from the confusion and conflict surrounding a homosexual relation ship. It highlights the love that can bloom between best friends, and the ways in which love can change the dynamics of friendship, both between those in the relationship, and those who surround it.

About the author
Maureen Johnson has written nine YA books, including 13 LITTLE BLUE ENVELOPES and THE NAME OF THE STAR. She has also written short strories along with other YA authors, for the collections VACATIONS FROM HELL and LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW.

Visit her website at:  http://www.maureenjohnsonbooks.com
Read her blog:  http://www.maureenjohnsonbooks.com/blog/
Follow her on twitter: @maureenjohnson

More books like this?WILL GRAYSON, WILL GRAYSON by John Green and David Levithan
WHAT HAPPENED TO GOODBYE by Sarah Dessen
NOUGHTS AND CROSSES by Malorie Blackman

Review: Rapture by Lauren Kate

*Warning: This review will contain spoilers for the previous books in the series!* 

The Fallen Series: 
Book One: FALLEN
Book Two; TORMENT
Book Three: PASSION
Book Four: RAPTURE

First Words
RAPTURE, is the last book in the Fallen series, and in a way I have been putting off writing up this review because now this is it, and the series is officially finished! I've really enjoyed this series over the past few years, and while I feel it's had its had its ups and downs, overall this defiantly my favorite collection of books around fallen angles!

So, what's it about? "The sky is dark with wings . . . and time is running out for Luce and Daniel."*

In order to stop Lucifer from erasing the past, Luce, Daniel and Cam, along with everyone else, must find the place where the fall began.

Finding the place where the fall began will be hard, the answers are lost in the past and they'll have to search hard if they are to find them in time.

But they only have nine days - nine days it will take for Lucifer and the rest of the fallen angels to fall from Haven to earth.

As dark forces gather, great sacrifices are about to be made in this final battle.

"In the fight for Luce, and for love, who will win?"*

Thoughts and opinions I'm a huge lover of this series, and after the twists of PASSION, I was super exited to read RAPTURE.

(Note: Before you read this book, I recommend going back and reading PASSION, as the plot is quite complex and mixed with the previous book!)

Firstly, to the characters. Luce has defiantly developed as a character as the series has gone on, and there are a few times in RAPTURE where she must really toughen up. Now that she can remember things from her previous lives, her and Daniel can share memories of there old lives together, which are always enjoyable to read about! Daniel stays the same as he always has, and his love for Luce does shine through in this story. Together, I think they are brilliant.

We finally learn in RAPTURE the reason Daniel fell, and also the reason behind the curse. This was just brilliant! There is so much more I want to say about this, but I really can't, although I will say how much more it makes me accept, believe in and finally understand the love that sparks between Luce and Daniel.

I struggled a little with the pacing, and there were parts at the start and in the middle that I felt were a little slow, and also a little repetitive. However, these are easily shadowed by the rest of the story, and the intensity that increases as it progresses!

Final verdict 
Tense, action packed and a final twist that will leave you speechless, this is a incredible end to the outstanding Fallen series!

About the author Rapture is Lauren Kate's sixth book. On top of the previous books in the Fallen series, there is also a novella of love stories surrounding the characters in Fallen, named FALLEN IN LOVE. Her debut novel was THE BETRAYAL OF NATALIE HARGROVE.

Visit the website at:  http://www.fallenbooks.co.uk/
Follow her on twitter at: https://twitter.com/laurenkatebooks
Like the FaceBook page: http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=www.fallenbooks.co.uk/

More books like this? 
Hush-Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
Kissed by an Angel by Elizabeth Chandler
Providence by Jamie McGuire

*This quote is taken directly from the blurb of RAPTURE.

Review: Struck by Jennifer Bosworth

First WordsThis was a book that I picked up when I was in the YA section of the bookshop. I was drawn in by the name, STRUCK, then the cover captured my attention and then with addition of a short but amazing synopsis on the back - I was hooked!

So, what's it about? 
"My name is Mia Price and I am a Lighting Addict. I want the lightning to find me. I crave it like lungs crave oxygen. Nothing makes you feel more alive than being struck."*

In a world full of natural disasters, Mia Price and her family moved to Los Angeles where the lighting rarely strikes. But now a devastating earthquake has transformed the city into a place full of chaos and danger.

With a younger brother to look out for, and a mother now suffering with Acute Distress Disorder, Mia is left to look out for the whole family.

But now two rival cults are competing for power . . . and both of them want Mia.

With the stunning yet mysterious Jeremy warning her to stay away from the both of them, should she actually be staying away from him?

Mia is about to discover that she is a part of something bigger than she could have ever imagined. . . and she's going to have to give everything if she's going to use her power to save them all.

Thoughts and opinions 
I wanted to love this book, I really did! I think, maybe, I went into it with expectation that were too high, because in a few places I found it a little disappointing.

But first though, lets look at the good points! I thought the concept - that Mia is addicted to lightning - completely brilliant! It's such a unique idea that for a while, the concept of it had me glued to the page and rapt with interest. There were some brilliant scenes, and certain parts were packed full of action, and towards the end the intensity really raised and I found myself reading through really fast so I could see what happened!

The characters where all pretty solid, although at the start I did struggle with reading Mia's voice, because she comes across to me as rather a harsh character. It took me a while to settle into it, but once I had, it did flow nicely.

The problem I had with this book most of all, was Jeremy. Now, I like Jeremy and the romance, because I always enjoy things that aren't randomly spontaneous. That was good, and nice, and I really do love Jeremy as a character. However, I had guessed who he was from before he was even introduced to us or Mia. Which, to be honest, ruined one of the biggest plot twists nearer the end of the book. I thought the hints through out were glaringly obvious, and I would have liked to have had the element of surprise contained for much longer!!

The pacing was okay in this book, it wasn't especially fast, yet it wasn't especially slow either. However, I felt that while many things happened in this book as I was reading it, as soon as it ended, it was as though nothing has really happened at all!

Final verdict 
A unique idea, that only just falls short of its overall potential! Still, an engaging and exiting read, while predictable in places, over all still a book full of excitement.

About the author 
STRUCK is the first novel by Jennifer Bosworth. No news yet on any future publications!

More books like this?
SLATED by Teri Terry
DIVERGENT by Veronica Roth
DELIRIUM by Lauren Oliver

*This quote is taken directly from the blurb of STRUCK. 

Review: A Million Suns (Book Two in the Across The Universe trilogy ) by Beth Revis

Note: If you haven't read the first book in this series, ACROSS THE UNIVERSE, this review will be containg spoilers!

First words
After reading ACROSS THE UNIVERSE, I have been incredibly eager to read A MILLION SUNS! The last book left us with so many unanswered questions and mysteries, that I couldn't put off reading this from the moment I got it home!

So, what's it about?"
Trapped on board the spaceship Godspeed, Amy trusts no one."*

The ships old leader, Eldest, is dead, and Elder must step forward and take charge as the Eldest. However, others on board disagree, and a rebellion is threatening to take over ship . . .

Amy is desperate to help Elder as he tries to take control, but she is caught it a race to  uncover the secrets of Godspeed, leading to an unthinkable result . . . before Godspeed is overcome food shortages, anger and turmoil.

"Only one thing is certain. They have to get off this ship."*

Thoughts and opinions

As in ACROSS THE UNIVERSE,  I'm in love with the ship and ideas behind Godspeed. Once again, this story captured me from the first page and quite literally took me to a different universe.

Before I start to completly gush about this book, I will point out the one negative and the one thing I've heard the most comments about in the first book. That's Elder and Amy.

We left them after Amy had found out that is was actually Elder to un-freeze her, and therefore he is the reason she is awake and alone without her parents. In the last book, Amy and Elder were never quite together, yet it felt they weren't exactly apart either. However, it's clear to everyone, that Elder wants to be more (though, he really could do with out the distraction!), but Amy isn't so sure. The 'not-there-but-not-not-there' relationship continues in this book, but you'll have to read it yourself to see if they finally realize their feelings and get together.

Again, I think the romance is a secondary plot, so I try not to judge it to harshly, and actually, I kind of enjoyed it in this book.

Now for the rest of the story - I LOVED it! I defiantly prefer this story to the first - even though that to was incredible! Now that the Feeders of the ship are off the drug Phydus, (the drug that kept them calm, happy and serine), a rebellion is threatening against Elder and the system. There are so many implications from this, as well as Elder having to step up at the age of sixteen and act as Eldest. 

However, again, there is another murder, but this time the people think that it's Elders way of showing authority. There is no frexing way that I could of guessed who the murder was! Once again, Beth Revis is a complete master of disguising the murderer and it left me completely breathless! 

In A MILLION SUNS, we also lean more about Godspeed and the mission itself, learning all the secrets that Eldest had been keeping from Elder the whole time. Again, not in a million years would I have guessed what the biggest surprise of the whole book turned out to be!

Something I want to mention, but also something that will most likely make sense until you have read it, is a page just over 1/2 through the book. Oh. My. Goodness. Ingenious! Made it seem so real, and wonderful and it was such a beautiful idea!

Final verdict
Breathtaking, suspense filled and twisting and turning every single step of the way, this is an incredible installment in this exiting trilogy!

About the author 
A MILLION SUNS, the second book in the Across The Universe Trilogy, is Amy Revis's second book. Her debut novel was the start of this series, ACROSS THE UNIVERSE. The final book in the trilogy, SHADES OF EARTH, is due to be released in May 2013!

Visit her website: http://www.bethrevis.com/
Or her blog: http://bethrevis.blogspot.co.uk/
Follow her on Twitter @BethRevis

More books like this?

GLOW by Amy Kathleen Ryan
STRUCK by Jennifer Bosworth
GIRL PARTS by John M.Cusick

Review: The Clockwork Prince (Book Two of The Infernal Devices) by Classandra Clare

*This review will contain spoilers if you haven't read the first book in the series, THE CLOCKWORK ANGEL!* 

First Words
I completely fell in love with THE CLOCKWORK ANGEL, and am not ashamed to admit I squeaked in joy when I saw this book waiting on the shelves!

So, what's it about?
"Love and lies can corrupt even the purest of hearts..."*

Deep in the magical underworld of Victorian London, Charlotte and Harry Branwell have a limited time before the Counsel removes them from head of the Institute. After the attack from the Enclave on the vampire de Quincy, killing him and his followers that where there, and the attack on the Institute where two servents died and Tessa was nearly kidnapped, they are challenged with finding Mortmain. But they only have two weeks to do it.

Will is busy helping to track down Mortmain; he's hoping that the man will be able to lead them to the Magister - giving Tessa the answers about her whole existence, and Will the freedom from his secrets. But this alone isn't enough for him, and he seeks the help of Mangus Bane to rid him of his secret once and for all.

Tessa finds herself drawing closer and closer to Jem, despite her longing for Will, and after her brother betrayed her, she is at a loss with what to do.

Time is running out, and lies are being held in every corner . . . with someone betraying them from the inside, who can they trust?

Thoughts and opinions
I've been dying to talk about the romance in this book since the moment I turned the final page, so for once I'm going to start here!

Jem. Will. Jem. Will. Jem. Wi- Okay, I'm sure you get the picture. Usually, when there is a love triangle, I have a clear favorite. The one that is the obvious choice, the one that she is obviously going to end up with. This isn't like that. I genuinely love both of the boys.

Will has his fair share of problems, and is in no way treating Tessa like someone should if they are in love. However, in this book we do learn the reasons behind Will's behavior, and through this revelation we see a very different side of Will. By the end of the book, while still holding onto his unmistakable whit, he becomes a much nicer character, but still stays enough 'bad-boy' if that's why you fell in love with him!

Jem on the other hand. . . Well. these boys couldn't be more opposite. Also, lets not forget that the drug that Jem needs to keep himself alive, is slowly killing him. Tessa is confused by her feelings for Jem, but  then he is incredibly sweet and kind. There is a huge twist by the end of this book, and I didn't expect it to come quite so soon, but I am SO, SO intrigued to see what happens in the next book!

As always, Cassandra Clare's writing style is second to none, and as the action picks up, it flicks quicker and quicker between the different characters point of view. Unlike some books, where you start to favor one voice over another, here each voice is as anticipated and enjoyed as the next.

I love that Magnus Bane is a part of this book, and we see more of him here than we did in CLOCKWORK ANGEL. Towards the end of the book Jessamine has a larger role to play, although I think it's possible a little obvious, but maybe that's just because now I have read it, it all makes perfect sense that she would do it.

The plot is solid and complex, Will's secret is incredibly intriguing, and it's incredible what he's done to keep it, him and everyone else safe.

What I love most about this, is while the romance is a key part of these series, the world of the Shadowhunters is one that is so detailed and complex that the romance only adds to it. If you were to take it away, this is still an incredible world that has been created.

Final verdict
Thrilling, action packed and surprising, this book reaches the same incredible level that we have come to expect from the exceptionable Cassandra Clare.

About the author 
Cassandra Clare has also written a sister series named THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS, sixth and nect book of which is out in September, 2014. The third book of THE INFERNAL DEVICES is out on March 18th 2013! A third series of books featuring the Shadowhunters is due out in 2015 called THE DARK ARTIFACTS!

THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS movie is currently being cast which is extremely exiting!

More books like this? 

THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS by Cassandra Clare
FATEFUL by Claudia Grey
DIE FOR ME by Amy Plum

*This quote is taken from the blurb of CLOCKWORK PRINCE. 

Review: Fateful by Claudia Gray

First words

As soon as I saw that this story is set upon the Titanic, I was so exited to read it! I'm also a huge fan of books set in the 1800's, to early 1900's, so this was high on my 'to-read asap' list!

So, what's it about?

"One wants her dead, the other wants her heart. The ocean wants them all."*

Tess has served the Lisle family since the age of thirteen - but she doesn't want to settle for being a lady's maid for ever. 

The perfect opportunity to escape comes in the shape of a ship... the america bound Titanic. Boarding with the Lisle's, with her mind made up to quit as soon as they dock, Tess couldn't begin to imagine what is waiting for her and every single soul upon the 'unsinkable' Titanic...

But the ice-cold waters of the Atlantic ocean isn't the only danger that awaits her. On board, are two strangers following her every move with eyes like wolves - and on a ship, there are only so many places you can hide before you are found. 

Thoughts and opinions

Firstly, this is a book to be read late at night, hidden beneath the sheets, preferably with a torch. It really is wonderful. 

Everyone knows the heartbreaking and tragic journey that the Titanic makes, and so the whole book is read with baited breath, waiting for the sinking to start. Because everyone will know that that happens, it's safe for me to talk about it. It is written absolutely beautifully, capturing the fear, panic and horror as water starts to flood into the ship. I was reading this chapter at about one o'clock in the morning with rain hammering the window, and myself buried deep into my duvet. It was like watching it all play out in front of my eyes, and I kept getting images of the film Titanic  bouncing into my head, only making the words on the page seem even more real...   Incredibly captivating. 

Tess is sweet, humorous at times, and generally a very likable character. She is set on escaping to a new life as soon as they land in America, and I find her determination wonderfully admirable! She has a definite sense of right and wrong, and I think she struggles with this through out the book. She has to try and stay her place as a third class passenger and member of society, yet as the passage progresses, situations occur and she starts finding herself stepping out of line and chanlenging those boundaries.

Then, there's the unreachable, unattainable, rich, handsome Alec. While her employer, Lady Regina, is trying to marry her daughter off to him (or any suitable man she can), Alec is busy hiding a burning secret. From the first chapter, and probably the blurb as well, it's not that hard to guess what that secret is, but then again, I don't think that his secret is the biggest factor in the story. It's more about the options he has, and the choices he'll have to make, as well as his relationship with Tess. I actually really like Alec's father as well; he seems like such a lovely character, I'm glad for the part he plays in the story.

Tess is in danger from the moment she boards the ship, and it turns out she isn't the only one. The nice thing is that it isn't actually Tess that is in danger, but something she has access to/ what she knows. I like this because it's more like she is in this by accident, which adds another dimension to the whole story, especially her relationship with other characters.

Obviously, this book is set over a short period of time, but every second is filled with action. Usually, such a book would put me off, because any romance, or any relationship, feels rushed and unobtainable, but this didn't feel that way at all. 

Final verdict
Imaginative, breathtaking and heart pounding, this is a wonderful story by Claudia Gray. Crossing history and the paranormal works so well, and this definitely sticks it's head above the crowd! 

About the author
Claudia Gray, is the author of the EVERNIGHT series, as well as recently the novel BALTHAZER which features one of the characters from the main books.

Visit her website: http://claudiagray.com/
Check out her blog: http://claudiagray.com/blog/

Follow her on twitter: https://twitter.com/claudiagray
Or, like her on Facebook!: http://www.facebook.com/authorclaudiagray

More books like this?

CLOCKWORK ANGEL by Cassandra Clare
SHIVER by Maggie Stiefvater
SLUMBER (THE FADE #1) by Samantha Young
DELIRIUM by Lauren Oliver 

*Quote taken from the blurb of FATEFUL. 

Review: Fallen by Lauren Kate

First words
I first read FALLEN back in 2009 when it came out. Now that the last book, RAPTURE, has been released, I've decided to re-read the whole series so I can do it justice! I haven't read FALLEN for a year or so now, but it's been like meeting up with an old friend that I haven't seen for a while, then suddenly realize how much we get on!


So, what's it about?
"Some angels are destined to fall..."*

When Luce arrives at Sword & Cross, a reform school by order of the court, it's a far cry from her old private school at Dover. But Luce doesn't belong here - at least that's what she says. However ... after the accident last summer, no one believes her.

Luce soon catches the attention of the charming Cam, and with his dark hair and green eyes, he's a welcome distraction from her new life . . .

Then she sees Daniel. From the moment their eyes meet, Luce feels like she knows him from somewhere . . . not just that, but these feelings she has for him . . . why does it feel like this has happened before?

Thoughts and opinions
First, before the story has even begun, is a quote that has stayed with me since the first time I opened the book.

"But paradise is locked and bolted ... We must make a journey around the world to see if a back door has perhaps been left open."

-Heinrich Von Kleist, 'On the Puppet Theater.'

What a perfect idea this is on its own. Even more so when you read it from the context of Luce or Daniel, and realize that it's true for them too.

This entwined love story is beautiful, dark and twisted all at once. It's complicated and seemingly destined to fail, yet you can't help but feel a sense of hope. Sometimes, a story where love, or at least extremely strong attraction, seems to come on very quickly, and from not a lot, can feel wrong and unexplained. This does not. Luce is, yes, interested in Daniel from the start, but I think she is also intrigued by him, and not just because she 'likes' him. 


Luce is written from third person, but it such a way, most of the time I forget and I feel like I'm reading in first. I really feel for Luce and the things she goes through, and, so far I really like her as a character. She has her funny moments, and she doesn't act stupidly and get herself into danger for the sake of it! I love the way that she has had the shadows for a long time, and that she figured out how to pretend everything is normal so that her parents stop sending her to shrinks. I think we have all done things like that in out lives, (I know I have anyway!) and it makes Luce much more accessible to be understood. Another thing I really enjoyed, is how we don't find out all the information all at once in one big sitting. It leaks out from the start; the thing that happened in the summer; the way she recognizes Daniel; it really captures your attention and keeps you hooked until the very end!

For the start of the book, we only really see Daniel from the distance (but not so in the distance it's in any way boring at all!) , so I'm actually going to start with Cam. In some respects, it's hard to make Cam out. He's the dark haired, green eyed boy with smooth words and shameless flirting. You start to think maybe he's not so bad actually maybe he's okay after all ... well I let you read the book to learn whether he is or not!

While Daniel is mentioned lots in the first half of the book, him and Luce don't really start talking properly until the story has progressed a little but more. This actually works well, as it gives Cam's character a chance to develop further. As Luce and Daniel start to grow, we learn more about him and why there's a connection between him and Luce. (Sorry, this is all quite vague, but I don't want to ruin the plot in any way, and so if I don't do that, there's lots of things I can't say!) It's nice to have a change, and have the lead male as someone with blond hair instead of the usual dark and mysterious type that likes to haunt this genera, especially surrounding things such as fallen angels.


Final verdict
Intriguing, darkly romantic, with a forbidden love that's stronger than time, FALLEN is an incredible start to a thrilling series.

About the author
THE BETRAYAL OF NATALIE HARGROVE was the first novel by Lauren Kate.   FALLEN is her second book and the first in the Fallen series. Next is, TORMENT, then PASSION and the final book is RAPTURE. A book named FALLEN IN LOVE is labeled book 3.5, and is a collection of love stories set in the world and people surrounding Luce and Daniel.

A FALLEN movie is in pre-production, and the screen play is currently being written, with author Lauren Kate involved in a consulting capacity. Disney optioned the rights to the series in 2010.

Learn more about Lauren Kate at her website: http://laurenkatebooks.net/
Check out the FALLEN website: http://www.fallenbooks.com.au/ /  http://www.fallenbooks.co.uk
Follow her on Twitter: @laurenkatebooks
Or, like the series on FaceBook:  http://www.facebook.com/fallenbooks

Other books like this?
DIVERGENT by Veronica Roth
KISSED BY AN ANGEL by Elizabeth Chandler
HUSH-HUSH by Becca Fitzpatrick

*This quote is taken from the blurb of FALLEN. 

Review: Until I Die by Amy Plum

This review will contain spoilers if you haven't yet read the first book in the series, DIE FOR ME!

First words
Having recently re-read DIE FOR ME, I went and brought UNTIL I DIE, eager to carry on the story! I adore the cover of this book; it's beautifully designed, and I love the shiny silver swirls that surround the title.

So, what's it about?
"My life had always been blissfully, wonderfully normal. But it only took one moment to change everything.."*

Vincent is a reverant; an immortal being that is compelled to die in order to save a humans life. His 'life' is put in danger every time he tries to save someone - and that was his existence. Until he met Kate.

He has sworn to fight against his very nature to be with her, to grow old with her.

But, Kate can't stand by and watch the boy she loves die over and over - death haunts her past, her parents died in a car crash just a short time ago..

Resisting death causes Vincent immense suffering, but he's determined to find a way to overcome it. So is Kate. Unable to sit around and watch Vincent suffer any longer, she's determined to find another way, and in the process discovers something that might put a stop to their enemies, the numa, for ever. But her actions aren't going unnoticed...

She's unknowingly putting everyone she loves in danger.

And in the process, made herself not just a player in the game ... but a target.

Thoughts and opinions
This book flows nicely from where DIE FOR ME left off, and Kate and Vincent bounce beautifully off one another from the start.

Jude is along for the ride, adding his flirty amusement to the story at all the right times. Again, there's a bit of a wondering if Jude 'likes' Kate, or if he really is just that flirty with everybody!

So, Vincent's trying to find a way to fight his urge to die, so to speak, and Kate's desperate to help him. However, they are both starting to keep secrets from each other. When Vincent start's to look like death Kate knows something is wrong, but Vincent won't tell her whats going on. So she decides to go and look herself, leading her to the old areas of Paris, trying to discover people who might be able to help her.

I truly believe their love is true, strong and real, but the fact that Vincent's death is imminent all the time, is a huge deal breaker for Kate. Saying it like that, it could be easy to think 'that's selfish, he can't help dying' ect, however, this is a girl who has had her parents die recently, and had to move all the way from america, to Paris. To be honest, I don't think many people could knowingly watch someone they love die again and again, waiting for them to come back to life each time, and in Kate's case this feeling must be multiplied.

Numa (the evil revenant's) are those who became revenants by taking life as apposed to saving it. This is such a simple idea, and it works so, so well, because they are essentially the same, yet so totally different at the same time.

That ending .... oh my goodness!! WHAT a cliff hanger! Desperate to read the next book - counting down the months till it is released!

Final verdict 
Fabulously gripping and stunningly written, UNTIL I DIE is an brilliant addition to this fabulous trilogy -  the end will leave you screaming out for more as soon as possible!  


About the author
DIE FOR ME was the first novel by Amy Plum. This book, UNTIL I DIE, is the second in the trilogy and the final book, IF I SHOULD DIE, is due to be released in May 2013!

Visit her website at: http://www.amyplumbooks.com/
Check out her blog at: http://www.amyplumbooks.com/blog/
'Like' her on FaceBook: http://www.facebook.com/amyplumfanpage?ref=sgm
Follow her on Twitter: @AmyPlumOhLaLa

More books like this? 
FALLEN by Lauren Kate
EVERMORE by Alyson Noel
CLOCKWORK ANGEL by Cassandra Clare

*This quote is taken from the blurb of UNTIL I DIE. 

Review: Clockwork Angel (Book One of The Infernal Devices) by Cassandra Clare

First Thoughts
I found THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS completely brilliant, but for some unknown reason, I kept putting off starting THE INFERNAL DEVICES. I'm completely kicking myself now - I loved every single page, and can not wait to get my hands on the next book in the series!!

So, what's it about? 
"Magic is dangerous - but love is more dangerous still."*

It's Victorian England, and a ship is docking from New York. On it, is sixteen-year-old Tessa Gray waiting to meet her brother, but when she arrives, she is kidnapped and forced to practice powers she never knew she had.
Suddenly rescued by Will, alone and afraid, she takes refuge with the Shadowhunters - those who hunt demons. Here she learns about the Downworld; a place of vampires and warlocks and a whole array of other supernaturals.
As she learns more about the world she is quickly tumbling deeper and deeper into, she starts to feel something for two boys who are as close as brothers... But she's being hunted. Someone wants her. And her powers.

Thoughts and opinions
Because I'd already read THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS, I'm familiar with the world of the Shadowhunters and the Downworld, and it was one I've been itching to return too.
The difference is that this series, has been set at a much earlier date than the first. I'm a huge lover of stories set in the Victorian era for a number of reasons. So, the first, and the biggest, is how relationships had to be conducted in order to be 'proper'. Character A cannot simply fall into bed with B and then pretend that nothing happened; okay, yes, they could but the implications are much higher than that of those set in current times. For relations to develop to that respect, marriage has to (/should) happen, which again adds all sorts of boundaries to cross in itself. Small touches and words seem to carry more weight, with small things such as calling people by their first name, or even more so shortening their first name, means a lot.
Onto the characters! The majority of the book is following Tessa, (although it does swap to others at times, especially towards the end,), who is wonderful! She's witty and quick, and the comebacks that expire between herself and Will do cause some real laugh out loud moments!
Will is also an incredible character. He's painted as the 'dark moody' kind of guy, but he's very quick witted with it, and is a constant source of amusement. From the first few chapters, he fast shot up on my list of favorite male leads, simply from the way him and Tessa bounce off each other.
For readers of THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS, a familiar face makes his appearance, and I was so happy to see him here, being his usual self, and it's clear that he's staying through the next book at least!
The last few chapters were really intense, and there's no way at all I would have seen those twists coming from a mile away! It's a complete cliff hanger at the end, and I'm hoping I can pick up a copy of CLOCKWORK PRINCE (the second book in the series) really soon!

Final verdict 
Beautifully written and crafted, this is a must for any paranormal romance lover! Victorian London is the perfect setting for this intense tale, and it will leave you waiting and wishing for your next fix of Shadowhunters!

About the authorCassandra Clare has also written a sister series called THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS, the sixth and next book of which is out in September 2014.  The third book of THE INFERNAL DEVICES is out in March 19th 2013! A third series of books featuring the Shadowhunters is due out in 2015 called THE DARK ARTIFACTS! THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS is currently under casting for the movie that is on the way!

Visit her website: http://www.cassandraclare.com/
Check out her blog:  http://cassandraclare.tumblr.com/
Follow her on twitter:@cassieclare
Or learn more about Shadowhunters here!: http://www.shadowhunters.com/index.php
More info about the movie!:  http://www.cassandraclare.com/faq/who-has-been-cast-in-the-mortal-instruments-movie/

More books like this? 
FALLEN by Laura Kate
THE SPLENDOR FALLS by Rosemary Clement-Moore
ALL THESE THINGS I'VE DONE by Gabrielle Zevin

*This quote is taken from the prologue of CLOCKWORK ANGEL. 

Review: All These Things I've Done by Gabrielle Zevin

First thoughts 
I've really been loving Dystopian fiction recently, and I think after the success of THE HUNGER GAMES movie, we'll be seeing more of it over the next couple of years.


So, what's it about? 
It's New York, and the year is 2082.
In a world where many things, including chocolate, caffeine and camera phones are banned, a sixteen year old girl is being arrested, and facing imprisonment, for attempted murder.
With her grandmother only alive thanks to life support machines, her eighteen year old brother with a mental age of eight, and her little sister to look out for, Anya needs to be there for them.
That's when the District Attorney offers her a choice. She can watch helplessly as he destroys her family; or she can stay away from his son. Easy choice? Not when his son is the boy Anya loves.
With her parents dead, and the rest of her family deep in the criminal underworld, to keep everyone safe, she's going to have to make the right choices.

Thoughts and opinions 
Straight away, I loved Anya. She's strong, funny and witty, reminding me of other protagonists such as Katniss, (THE HUNGER GAMES) and Triss (DIVERGENT).
Having a protagonist that is feisty is always brilliant and adds some laugh out loud moments, and with in the first few chapters, this is shown in abundance! However, soon her 'spirit' leads her into trouble... of course.
Religion has been wound into the story cleverly, and has its place through out. It adds dimensions too, and I think it's actually an important thing to include when a story is set in the future. If religion has lasted through the years of scientific discovery, chances are it's not going away any time soon, and it helps make this story feel very real. (Although, it's worth pointing out, what ever religion you may or not be, it will make no difference to your enjoyment of the story! Its just something I always find interesting when authors include it in their writing.)
Gable, Anya's boyfriend at the start of the book (soon to be -ex boyfriend,) is someone I would like to kick. Hard. Where it hurts. Which is good, because it makes Anya's actions completely understandable (and okay, yes, encouraged!).
Will and Anya have a Romeo and Juliet romance, with Anya's family being deep in the criminal underworld, and Will's father being the District Attorney. It's clear that their relationship isn't going to happen easily, and they have a lot of things to work though if they are going to be together. Will is wonderful, he's strong and funny and I think he's going to be very loyal over the series.
So, sometimes, secondary characters really are just that - secondary. They become blurs in the background, people whose name you forget when you've put the book down for a day or so. The families become known more by their labels 'brother', 'sister' ect; but not here. In fact, I'm going to mention them now.
Leo is Anya's eighteen year old brother. He should be the head of the family, looking out for the rest of them. However, at the age of eight, an accident left him severely brain damaged, and his mental age hasn't been able to progress. We watch as he tries to make his own decisions, and the incomprehensible frustration of knowing what has happened to him, but being unable to do anything about it.
Then, we have to watch Anya's grandma, only alive thanks to a single machine that she's on all the time. Along with the little sister, Natty, Anya has to watch out for everyone - a lot of responsibility for a sixteen year old.
Also, the rest of their family play a big part in the plot. Making it a family business, means there's always going to be the strong connection too them, as hard as Anya tries to keep Leo away and her small little family safe.


Final verdict
Action packed, cleverly crafted and attention grabbing from the first page, this is defiantly a series to watch out for! Defiantly looking forward to the next book coming out asap!


About the author 
ALL THESE THINGS I'VE DONE, is Gabrielle Zevin's fifth novel, the first in this series. Her other works for young adults are MEMOIRS OF A TEENAGE ANIMISTIC and ELSEWHERE. She has also written two novels for adults.

Visit her website here: http://www.memoirsofa.com/
Her blog here: http://gabriellezevin.tumblr.com/
Or follow her on twitter: @gabriellezevin
Or like on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/gabriellezevinfanpage



More books like this? 
THE HUNGER GAMES by Suzanne Collins
DELIRIUM by Lauren Oliver
DIVERGENT by Veronica Roth

Review: Die For Me by Amy Plum

First words
I loved this book from the start. The cover is gorgeous and I was dawn into it from the very first page. From then, it kept me stuck to my seat until I turned the final page!


So, what's it about? 
"[She] had said that meeting me had transformed Vincent. I had given him 'new life'... But was he expecting me to save his soul?"*

When sixteen-year old Kate, and her older sister, Georgia, move to live with their grandparents in Paris, Kate isn't living - she's just existing. A week before Christmas, a car crash killed her parents, and now she's far away from everything that was her old life in Brooklyn. She looses herself in a world of books and art - then Vincent appears.

With his dark hair, olive skin, and clear blue eyes she's entranced from the moments their eyes meet.

But he's hiding something...

When Kate watches helplessly as his friend pushes a man from the tracks of the train, before being hit himself, she knows that this is bigger than anything she could have imagined ... and she's walked straight into the middle of it.

What will she sacrifice for love?

Thoughts and opinions 
Take me to Paris. Now. Pretty please?!
The city is described in such a wondrous way; with winding paths and ancient architecture, quaint, petite cafe's and romantic moonlight - it's beautiful! Not many books of this genera, (actually, any, that I can think of off the top of my head!), are set in France. With Paris having well earned it's romantic airs, any story set here is sure to have a love story to rival all others - Kate and Vincent most defiantly do. 

Kate is wonderful - she's quick, witty and funny, with more than enough heartbreak in her past to sympathize  with and all together shape her into a whole, real, feeling person. Any protagonist that has a true love of books, is destined to be a favorite character of mine, and the way in which Kate escapes into a world of words and art, is one I fully relate to in every way!

Vincent is firstly, yes, (*sigh!*), simply gorgeous. With dark hair, olive skin, blue eyes and a french accent he is the ideal of dark, sexy and mysterious. The catch? He's sweet, funny and kind. Forget Patch of HUSH-HUSH or Jace from THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS, Vincent has the 'bad-boy' vibe with out any of the cockiness or harsh words.

But, of course, it's not as simple as it seems.

This take on Revenant's is clever. It's unique. It has consent, heart aching consequences and a gang of deadly, killer enemies.

The rest of Vincent's group, are made up of a brilliant mix of characters, and there's even the small hints of a love triangle.. . it has everything, all in one stunningly written package.



Final verdict 
Fresh, breathtaking and beautifully told, DIE FOR ME will keep you to clinging to every last word. It will take you away to Paris in all it's splendor and glory, all it's culture and all it's mystery; this is truly a story you will not want to miss.


About the author
DIE FOR ME is the first novel by Amy Plum. The second book in the trilogy is UNTIL I DIE and the final book, IF I SHOULD DIE, is due to be released in May 2013!

Visit her website at:  http://www.amyplumbooks.com/
Follow her on twitter:  @AmyPlumOhLaLa 
Like her FaceBook page:  http://www.facebook.com/amyplumfanpage?ref=sgm
Or, check out her blog!:  http://www.amyplumbooks.com/blog/

More books like this? 
FINDING SKY by Joss Stirling
PROVIDENCE by Jamie McGuire
MY BLOOD APPROVES by Amanda Hocking

*This quote is taken from the prologue of DIE FOR ME. 

Review: He's After Me by Chris Higgins

First words
I hadn't seen this book before yesterday, but after scouting around my local library, it caught my eye and I decided to give it a read!

So, what's it about?
"I shriek, and now I am running, as fast as I can, down the pitch-dark street. He is chasing me. He's not trying to be quiet now. He's after me."*

When her dad left her mum for his new girlfriend, Anna's life slowly started to fall apart.
But then she meets Jem. Handsome and mysterious, he's a photography student who loves art and music - he introduces her to a whole new world. Soon she's in love and falling fast, but what will she sacrifice for him?
Meanwhile, something - someone - else is happening. Following. Watching.
Not all love stories have a happy ending.


Thoughts and opinions
Now, too begin with, I found myself (incorrectly), disappointed. I thought Jem was a typical 'bad-boy-who-actually-is-very-arty-and-expressive-ect'. As the story progresses, this becomes questionable to say the least.
Anna is likable, however, she is very naive. I yelled at her quite a few times, but she apparently didn't couldn't hear me!
While most of the book is written from Anna's prospective, every chapter or so, there is a paragraph by someone else. We don't know who though. But he's watching and he's waiting. He's after her.
Now, these paragraphs are what kept me hooked for the first part of the story while Anna is falling in love with Jem (which I would say happens to fast, however,I guess it needs too for the story to work, so as far as I'm concerned, its okay really.), but then suddenly the story from Anna's prospective starts to pick up pace.
This book will scare you, and it will surprise you. It'll keep you guessing, and then guessing again.
 If I'm to describe this book, it's like a snow ball. It starts off rolling down the hill, but then as it continues, it gets faster and faster, and bigger and bigger, until right at the end it smashed into a brick wall.
The ending is unexpected, and fast. It picks you up and then drops you, leaving you gasping for breath.
I have a feeling that this is the type of book that will only get better the more times you read it - and I am going to be reading it again. Soon.


More books like this?
STOLEN by Lucy Christopher
THE ETERNAL ONES by Kirsten Miller
BEAUTIFUL DISASTER by Jamie McGuire


Final verdict
With twists, turns and lies across every page, this book picks up the intensity until in finishes with a final, booming explosion.

About the authorHE'S AFTER ME, is Chris Higgins fist book for elder teens, but she has written seven other novels for younger teens including LOVE YA BABE and A PERFECT 10.

Visit her website here: http://www.chrishigginsthatsme.com
Buy it off amazon here!


*The indicated quote is taken from the blurb of HE'S AFTER ME

Review: North of Beautiful by Justina Chen Headley

First Words
This is another book I've looked at for what seems like forever, but never picked up to read. After finishing it, I'm struggling to think why on earth I didn't read it sooner! I related to this book on so many levels, so maybe it was just waiting for the perfect time to come into my life...but the important part is that it has.

So, what's it about?
Terra is tall, she's blond, and she has a stunning body. What then, could be the problem? With just one glance at her cheek, a port-wine birth mark flaws her face and in that second, that is all people remember.
Desperate to leave high school and escape her small town and unbearable father, she is graduating early and is ready to leave and start again.
Then Jacob slams into her life. A good looking Goth boy who is about to challenge everything in her life - including herself. Can he make her see what True Beauty really is?

Thoughts and opinions
First, I want to talk about Jacob. Oh Jacob. How I love thee! Thank you, oh thank you, to Justina Chen Headley, for steering away from over used male stereo types, and coming up with someone totally unique. A Chinese Goth boy, is not something we often get the pleasure of seeing. He is written beautifully, and his reasons behind being a Goth, are so true, and it was one of the things I related to strongly. If people are going to stare, give them something to stare at. Make a statement.
Now Terra. Damn this girl is brilliant. It's hard, because I don't want to go into too much detail and give away anything from the story, but there are a few things I will say.
Her boyfriend Erik - I get it. I understand why she is with him, and why she doesn't want to break up with him. Next, her face. The idea that make-up is a mask, is one that I feel is true. That's not coming from someone who doesn't wear make-up by the way, it's coming from someone who won't step out the door with out it. Here, is another place I relate to Terra.
I seem to keep picking up books where the romance develops far to quickly. This, thankfully, was not one of those books. It's a relationship that twists and turns; pauses and races, with two characters that come together yet challenge each other; it's real.
The writing is similar to that of Sarah Dessen. I found it perfectly paced, and just when you though you knew what was coming, it changed and left you wondering again. Very humbling in places, it will make you value what you have, and is another book that makes you want to scream at the 'ideals' society places on everyone.
It will also make you want to go geocaching. Desperately.

More books like this?
SKIN DEEP by Laura Jarratt
JUST LISTEN by Sarah Dessen
PAPER TOWNS by John Green

Final Verdict 
A heartfelt, thought provoking novel that will stay with you for a long time. Beautifully written and artfully told, the next work by Justina Chen Headley certainly has a lot to live up too - and I'm sure it will!

About the author
Justina Chen Headley's fist book was NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH (AND A FEW WHITE LIES) and the second GIRL OVERBOARD. NORTH OF BEAUTIFUL has been her third release.

You can visit her website: http://www.justinachenheadley.com/
Or follow her on twitter: @JustinaYChen
Check out the internet reading club for teenage girls she co-founded: http://www.readergirlz.com
Or buy the book of amazon here!

Review: Across the Universe by Beth Revis

First words
I've been meaning to read ACROSS THE UNIVERSE for a while, but until now haven't had a chance to do so. This is a Sci-Fi / murder mystery, and I hadn't read any books like this before, and was really looking forward to giving it a go!

So, what's it about?
Stored. Un-moving. Frozen in time for 300 years. Sent out into the depth of the universe. Ready to start again on a new planet. That was the plan.
Fifty years before the spaceship Godspeed is due to land, a seventeen year old girl is woken suddenly, violently and with out warning. It's a murder attempt, and hers is only the beginning. Who would try to kill the people who are there to help build the new planet?
But this is only half the problem. Once Amy is awoken, she can not be frozen again. She's on board a spaceship with her parents still frozen in the chambers below. Alone and afraid, she's named a freak and a outcast by the residents of Godspeed.
Apart from one boy. "He want's to protect her - and more if she'll let him..."*

Thoughts and opinions
I think there's a few different fundamental parts to this book
First; the Sci-Fi parts. I adored them. Godspeed is a brilliant ship, and it's beautifully imageined and incredibly well described. The reasons for Godspeeds creation, the reasons behind the new planet, and the way in which Amy and everyone is frozen, together form the base line of the story. It's done with a precise amount of complexity and simplicity keeping interesting enough to be guessing things for yourself, but simple enough that you don't have to keep flicking back and re-reading everything.
I would say the romance in this is more of a sub-plot, and the story isn't built around it by itself. Saying that, the romance has potential to progress through the next book, and I'd like to see more of it! The next book in the series A MILLION SUNS is out now, and I'm actually really exited about ordering it. Lots of questions are left unanswered at the end of ACROSS THE UNIVERSE, and I defiantly want to see where Amy's relationship goes.
Of the few small things that could possibly be improved on; one) I felt it was a little slow to start, and two) some parts of the 'romance' I thought were a little rushed or un-explanatory / followed up.
Its written from both Amy's point of view, and Elder's. He's due to be the next leader of Godspeed, and through him, we learn more about Godspeed and how the people are managed. He is brilliantly written; strong but unsure of himself, and trying to think desperately how to show Amy that Godspeed isn't as bad as she thinks it is.

Final verdict
A exiting, imaginative and fast-paced, debut novel by Beth Revis, that's made me want to read some more Sci-Fi -  it will leave you waiting for the next book with bated breath!

About the author
This is Beth Revis's first novel, and the next book in the series is A MILLION SUNS. The final book, SHADES OF EARTH, is due to be released in early 2013.

You can visit her website at: http://www.bethrevis.com
Or her blog at: http://bethrevis.blogspot.co.uk/
Follow her on twitter: @bethrevis
Or buy the book off amazon here!

*The indicated quote is taken from the blurb of ACROSS THE UNIVERSE. 

Review: Insurgent by Veronica Roth

*Be aware, this book contains spoliers if you haven't yet read the first book in the series ,DIVERGENT!* 


First Words 
I absolutely adored  DIVERGENT, and have been eagerly waiting to buy INSURGENT. As soon as I started reading the first page I knew this was going to be good!

What's it about? 
"I have done bad things. I can't take them back, and they are part of who I am."*

After the Erudite's attack on the Abnegation, both Tris's parents are dead, the Dauntless are divided and Tris is haunted by the results of the battle. While under the Erudite's control, her friend, Will, tried to shoot her. She had no choice - she shot him before he could kill her.
Wracked with guilt, and trying to cope the loss of her parents, Tris is compelled to learn the truth behind the attack and discover the thing that her father may have gave his life for. But in doing so, she might just have to sacrifice everything ... and loose everyone.

Thoughts and opinions 
So firstly, I'm going to go ahead and recommend you re-read DIVERGENT before starting this book. INSURGENT jumps straight into the action, and while things are explained, it might be easier to keep up from the first page if DIVERGENT is fresh in your mind!
Either way however, this is another incredible book by Veronica Roth! It really does dive straight in, which I always love, and every page is full of action and suspense.
I feel Tris goes through some changes in this book; she becomes a stronger and more determined person, whether it's through guilt and anguish or not is debatable. At the end of the last book, we see her making tough choices, and they certainly don't become any easier through this one. At times, for a second, I wanted to yell at Tris a little, but then I stopped and thought about it, and then understood exactly why she was doing what she was doing, and got back to waving my 'Go-Tris-Go!' pom-pom's.
Tobias (or Four) and Tris's relationship comes under imminence pressure as the story progresses. Tris needs to find out the truth, but Tobias disagrees and has his own plans. More secrets are revealed, and lies are kept, but I have to say through everything, I still believe they are meant to be together. You'll have to read it for yourself to see if their relationship can survive the struggles, but I will just say, I really love how Tobias is written. He's different to other male leads in his strong belief in doing the right thing, but his love for Tris is deep and true.
Lots of plot twists and results that I certainly didn't see coming will happen, and at the end you'll be staring at the wall, starting to count down the days until the final book is released!

Final Verdict
Brilliant sequel that takes takes the reader on a whirlwind of action, anguish and romance. Definitely lives up to DIVERGENT!

About the author
INSURGENT is the second book by Veronica Roth, the first being DIVERGENT. The third book in the series is currently due out in the Autumn of 2013.

You can visit her blog at:  http://veronicarothbooks.blogspot.co.uk/ 
Follow her on twitter: @veronicaroth
Or buy the book from amazon  here!

*The indicated quote was taken from the blurb of INSURGENT 

Review: Divergent by Veronica Roth

First words
A friend of mine recommended this book, and as soon I read the description I knew I had to get it! I was most defiantly not disappointed, and its shot up on my 'books I adore' list! This book is like a cross of THE HUNGER GAMES, DELIRIUM and MATCHED. Also, I was SO happy to get a book that comes in at just under 500 pages!!

What's it about?
"One choice decides your friends, defines your beliefs and determines your loyalties ... forever." *

Society is divided into five sections; each holding a different value as the most important. Dauntless believe in bravery; Candor in honesty; Amity in peace; Erudite in knowledge and Abnegation in selflessness.
Tris has been born and raised in Abnegation ; but now she's sixteen and she, along with everyone in her year, must make the choice that will determine the rest of their lives  - which faction will they choose? Will they stay will their families, or will they leave, and transfer to a new way of life forever?

Thoughts and opinions
This is a complete 'read-through-the-night-because-it's-impossible-to-put-down' book!
Firstly, the way the different fractions are portrayed show how different people hold different things in the highest esteem. It shows how we're brought up, does make us act in a certain way, even though to us, it's completely normal, to others it seems strange.
Tris is an amazing character. I found I related to her really easily, and I was completely swept up in her feelings and the changes she goes through from the beginning to the end.
The 'bad-guy/s'  (-I'm not going to name them, as I always prefer to find out who said 'bad-guys' are for myself when I read!-), are written brilliantly - I really did want to reach in and kill them myself! Fury and jealousy are portrayed perfectly, and the fight scenes are full of fast moving action.
Now, the romance! I'm not going to name 'him', but the relationship between the two, progresses at a perfect rate, but the love triangle is there enough for you to start second guessing yourself over who Tris will end up with. Saying that, it's not an frustrating triangle where you feel the girl is playing them both, Tris follows how she really feels the whole way.

Final Verdict 
Thrilling, breath taking and get-your-heart-racing ,I recommend this books to everyone!

About the author
DIVERGENT is the first book by Veronica Roth, with its sequel INSURGENT having been released recently. The third book is currently due out in the Autumn of 2013.


You can visit her blog at: http://veronicarothbooks.blogspot.co.uk/
Follow her on twitter: @veronicaroth
Or buy the book from amazon  here!




* The indicated quote is taken from the blurb of DIVERGENT 

Review: Skin Deep by Laura Jarratt

First words
I've been meaning to read this book for a while, but have only just got round to doing so. One thing I love about the cover of this book, is how the quote on the back is presented, with certain words being bigger that others; it really grabs your attention. The cover itself is also perfectly fits the story.

So what's it about?
Jenna was in a car with her best friend Lindsey, everyone drinking and smoking, when the car hit a patch of black ice. The car flipped over and caught on fire; Lindsey, and another girl Sophie, died on impact. Jemma escaped; but not before her life had been changed forever. Before Jemma could get out, she was caught in the flames. The right hand side of her face was severely burnt, leaving behind huge scars that can never be healed. With every glance in the mirror reminding her of her of the accident, and every stare in the street reminding her of her looks, she struggles to re-build her life. Until Ryan comes along. A traveling boy who might just be able to help her see, the scars don't define who she is.

"I wanted to say this morning, only you ran off...sorry if I was rude. "You surprised me, that's all. The scar-" he touched his face- "took me by surprise. I didn't mean to be rude." I gaped at him. Nobody ever, ever mentioned the scars.*

Thoughts and opinions
Firstly, I love the ideas behind this story. I strongly believe looks shouldn't be as important as society makes them - it really is all about who the person really is that should matter.  Following Jenna as she comes to terms with the scars, is perfectly done, and I love the fact that Ryan is a traveler, as that's something we don't see very often.
At the start of the book I had one reservation about it, and that was because Ryan is sixteen and Jenna fourteen. Personally, I think those two years make a huge difference at that age, and I thought maybe Jenna could have done with being a little older. However, it works because Jenna has been through so much more than the average fourteen year old. Having her best friend die and coping with having severe scars on her face forever, forces her to grow up deal with the harshness of life and the cruelty of people.
Ryan, is a brilliant character. He is a amazing cross between being kind and loving, yet strong enough to not let anyone get away with disrespecting him, Jenna or his mother.
Jenna and Ryan's relationship and their love for one another, feels very real, and evolves beautifully through out the story. Switching between Ryan and Jenna's perspective works perfectly the whole way through.
But there is more to this story than just their relationship, and it keeps it twisting right up to the last page!

Final verdict
SKIN DEEP captures the wonders and the heat breaks of first love, while leaving a message that will stay in your mind long after you turn the last page; looks really aren't everything.

About the author
SKIN DEEP is Laura Jarratt's first novel. She is currently working on her next book.

You can visit her website here: http://www.laurajarratt.com
Follow her on twitter here: @LauraJarratt
Read her blog here :http://laurajarratt.blogspot.co.uk
or buy the book from amazon here: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Skin-Deep-Laura-Jarratt/dp/1405256729/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1337172063&sr=8-1

*The indicated quote is taken from the blurb of SKIN DEEP / Page 29. 

Review: Paper Towns by John Green

First words
John Green is my favorite author.
 It's not just because I'm a proud Nerfighter and constant Vlog brothers, Crash Course and Sci Show watcher; it's because he is truly an incredible writer. When you pick up a book written by John Green, you know a few things that are going to happen ;you'll laugh lots; probably cry; be so happy you wish you were there and then possibly have your heart broken. But there's one thing that you'll never guess. You'll never guess the lesson that you'll learn from reading the story. That's what really makes these books special. They ingrain themselves into your brain; they stay with you forever.
PAPER TOWNS is no exception.

What is it about?
When Quentin is nine years old, he and his neighbor Margo, find something in the park.
A dead man.
That night was the last time that Margo tapped on Q's window. Until now. It's nine years later, and only a couple of weeks left until they graduate high school. When Margo climbs into his room and tells Q she needs his car for a night time of revenge, he cautiously agrees to help.
But the next day, Margo's gone. No one knows where she could be, except maybe Q.
She's left clues about her disappearance, and she's left them for him to find.
As Q links up the tail that leads to Margo, he has to ask himself the question; does anyone really know the real Margo at all?

Thought and opinions Firstly, there is something I love about the title PAPER TOWNS. Also, I found the concept of what a paper town really interesting, and I love Margo's speech about them.
Next, Q is a brilliant character. John Green always writes characters beautifully; they are a perfect cross of quick wit and intelligence. I also find his anxiety rather adorable.
The way in which poems and quotes are woven so effortlessly into the book will always be an absolute pleasure.
The story is amazing, it's brilliantly paced and the plot twists and turns so you can never see what is coming next.
It's the ideas in the story that I love though. Q's thoughts on Margo and life and imagination and everything else. They really do stay with you for a long time.

Final verdictFunny, witty and a whole lot of thought provoking, PAPER TOWNS, is a brilliant book for lovers of young adult and elder readers alike.

About the author
Along with his brother Hank Green, he makes half of the Vlogbrothers. His most recent work is THE FAULT IN OUR STARS and previous works are, LOOKING FOR ALASKA and AN ABUNDANCE OF KATHERINES. He also wrote half of WILL GRAYSON, WILL GRAYSON with fellow author, David Levithan.

You can check out his website here:   http://johngreenbooks.com/
Follow him on twitter: @realjohngreen
Take a look at Vlogbrothers :  http://www.youtube.com/user/vlogbrothers
Or Crash Course :  http://www.youtube.com/crashcourse
And you can buy the book off amazon here:  http://www.amazon.co.uk/Paper-Towns-John-Green/dp/1408806592/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1336908958&sr=8-1

Review: The Hollow by Jessica Verday

First words
I brought THE HOLLOW back in 2009, and it was one of the first YA paranormal romances that I'd read. I really enjoyed it back then, and after reading the last book in the trilogy, THE HIDDEN a short while ago, I decided it was time to go back to one of the places it all began.

What is it about?
Abbey won't believe that her best friend is dead. She can't even begin to believe the rumors that she took her own life.
As she attempts to find any other answer that could explain Kristen's on-going disappearance, she meets Caspian. Kind, mysterious and utterly gorgeous, she finds herself becoming more and more drawn to him.
But then, she discovers the frighting truth of the boy with the striking green eyes, and starts to question everything - including her self.
Has love finally found a boundary even it can not cross?

Thoughts and opinions
Without a doubt, the first thing I need to say about this book is how stunningly lovable, I find Caspian and Abbey.
Sometimes, male leads can be a little 'bad boy' or 'the stunning unreachable boy', which we see time and time again. Of course though, they are used for a reason, and that is because they work , and are popular with readers.
Caspian, however isn't either of these. There's no other words for it - he is just very sweet! Sweet in the 'why isn't there a guy like this' way, and so kind you want him as your best friend. Honestly, you just want to reach in and pull him from the page!
Abbey, is brilliant for a couple of reasons. One; you don't want to kill her. Okay, so that's a tad theatrical, but sometimes reading a book where the guy is very cute and kind, as a reader you don't always feel that the object of their attentions really deserves them. Abbey, however is one of the most likable voices I've read, and you only find your self routing for her.
Secondly, is how believably she acts. Now, talking about believability with books usually annoys me, because it is often used in the context, 'that could never happen', yet they are reading a paranormal, book...
However, I am talking about how the character acts to said situation. Instead of falling into the unbelievable truth she learns about Caspian, she questions everything around her, including her own sanity.
On top of both of these wonderful characters, the story its self twists and turns right up until the very end, leaving you itching for more.

Final verdict
Defiantly one of, possibly even my very favorite, paranormal trilogy. With beautifully written characters, and a story that will pick you up and take you to the town of Sleepy Hollow, it's a must read for all YA paranormal lovers.

About the author
Jessica Verday has also written the following two books in this trilogy, THE HAUNTED and THE HIDDEN.  She is currently working on a new book.




You can visit her website here : http://www.jessicaverday.com/
Or her blog here:  http://jessicaverday.blogspot.co.uk
And you can buy the book off amazon here:  http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Hollow-book-Jessica-Verday/dp/1847384986/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1336827449&sr=8-2

Review: Delirium by Lauren Oliver

First Words
I loved Lauren Oliver's first book BEFORE I FALL, and was really exited to read DELIRIUM. I was not disappointed!

What is it about?
Amor Deliria Nervosa.
It's dangerous; deadly even. People loose their minds when they become infected. They do crazy things, all priorities forgotten, their whole life taken up by the disease. Everything revolves around the one who infects them - that is, it did. Then they found the cure.
Amor Deliria Nervosa - love.
The deadliest of all diseases.
We follow Lena as she starts to question everything she has ever been taught.
Can he save her in time?

'Now, I'd rather be infected with love for the tiniest sliver of a second than live a hundred years suffocated by a lie'*

Thoughts and opinions
The first thing that struck me about this book, was the story itself.
Love is often portrayed as such a wonderful thing, something to be cherished and protected at all costs.  To have this as the opposite, was so refreshing. To have love as something that's banned, changes everything. After all, you can't always help who you fall in love with.
I really enjoy Lena as a character, she is likable even among the confusing conflicts that she faces. Considering that she has been brought up believing love is something to be scared of, Lauren Oliver has done an amazing job keeping her both believably nervous, yet strong enough to make her own decisions.   I've actually just finished reading the next book in the series, PANDEMONIUM, and it is equally as brilliant as this first in the series!

Final verdict
Another beautiful story by Lauren Oliver. It's as addictive as the disease it's based upon; once you pick it up, you really won't be able to put it down.

About the author
This book is the first in the series, with the second book being PANDEMONIUM. The final book in the series, REQUIEM, is due out in February 2013. She has also written a spin off book about Lena's best friend - HANA - A DELIRIUM SHORT STORY. Lauren Oliver's other works include the preiviosuly mentioned, BEFORE I FALL, as well as a book for younger readers named LISEL & PO.

Visit her website at: http://www.laurenoliverbooks.com/
Check out her blog at:  http://laurenoliverbooks.blogspot.co.uk/
Follow her on twitter at: @OliverBooks
Get it on amazon: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Delirium-Trilogy-1-Lauren-Oliver/dp/0340980931/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1336693223&sr=1-1

* The indicated quote is taken from the blurb of DELIRIUM.