tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38930096012901751142024-02-26T01:02:45.700-06:00BRAD ABOUT BOOKSReviews, memes, discussions and more! -Brad Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.comBlogger477125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-61787147743367782112015-07-13T21:56:00.001-05:002015-07-13T21:56:39.165-05:00The Winner's Crime by Marie Rutkoski<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read from May 5 to 9, 2015</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21469060-the-winner-s-crime">THE WINNER'S CRIME</a></b><br />
Published: March 3, 2015<br />
Publisher: FSG (Macmillan)<br />
Format: Hardcover<br />
Page Count: 402 pages<br />
Source: Purchased<br />
Series: <i>The Winner's Trilogy</i>, #2<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This review is entirely spoiler free, even if you haven't read book one, <i><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17756559-the-winner-s-curse">The Winner's Curse</a></i>.</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.bradaboutbooks.com/2014/03/brad-about-books-winners-curse-by-marie.html"><b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Read my review for book one here</span></b></a></div>
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<i>The Winner's Crime </i>is a fantastic continuation of one of the best fantasy series out there. Full of scandal, wonderful romance, and excellent world-building, <i>The Winner's Crime </i>is spectacular.</div>
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I'll be honest when I say that <i>The Winner's Crime </i>was slow in the beginning. This sequel focuses more on the government and behind the scenes scandal of the world, and it took a bit adjusting to that. Plus, the tables have turned since the last book. Kestrel and Arin have completely evolved into completely different people, so <i>The Winner's Crime </i>takes a completely different turn than the first book. While I had a little trouble adjusting to that, it was around the 100 page mark that everything clicked and I fell completely back into this world. Kestrel is one of my favorite heroines I've ever read about. She's strong and will fight for what she wants, and I love being on this journey with her. Arin takes a complete 180º in this sequel. I definitely appreciated how Rutkoski wasn't afraid to make her characters bend and change in this sequel instead of staying along the same path. Fantasy is one of my top favorite genres, and you can definitely bet that this trilogy has landed a place as being one of my favorites.</div>
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The stakes are completely raised and Rutkoski takes it to a whole new level in this sequel. You can definitely count on backstabbing, betrayal, and scandalous secrets in this trilogy, and <i>The Winner's Crime </i>does not fall short with the suspense. The world-building is expanded, and I loved how we get to see how Valoria's (where Kestrel lives) actions affect the rest of the world and the consequences that come with it. This series has so many layers to it; it's spectacular.</div>
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And the <i>writing</i>. Marie Rutkoski has one of the finest voices in YA. She pays attention to the details of her world, and she definitely takes a hold on the actions that come about. Another great part of The Winner's Trilogy is the fight scenes because there are two parts to them: you have the fight sequences, but the story mainly focuses on the behind-the-scenes scheme of the war. And it's so <i style="font-weight: bold;">interesting</i>. The bargaining, the planning, and the plot to do whatever it takes to win is definitely fascinating, and I couldn't get enough of this sequel.</div>
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AND THAT ENDING? I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. I have no idea where Rutkoski is going to take this story in the conclusion, <i><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20443235-the-winner-s-kiss?from_search=true&search_version=service_impr">The Winner's Kiss</a></i>, but I'm so ecstatic to see how it all wraps up!</div>
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Overall, <i>The Winner's Crime </i>did start off just a tad bit rocky for me, but it definitely picked up and the momentum never stopped. Rutkoski has created a rich, spectacular tale that is impossible to put down. Absolutely one of my favorites.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-57685194788877100562015-07-05T19:28:00.000-05:002015-07-05T19:28:02.997-05:00Mid-Year Review: Top 10 Books of 2015 (So Far!)It's absolutely crazy to me that it's July! Since we're halfway done with 2015, I think a mid-year favorites post is due.<br />
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<b>10. <i>P.S. I STILL LOVE YOU (TATBILB</i>, #2)<i> </i>- JENNY HAN</b></div>
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<i>To All the Boys I've Loved Before </i>was one of my favorites last year, so it wasn't any surprise to me that this one made its way onto this year's list. There are so many things I love about this series. Jenny Han makes these characters so believable and absolutely wonderful. I absolutely love the Song girls. Lara Jean, Kitty, and Margo are a powerful trio that have the perfect balance of compare and contrast in each of them. And the plot is stellar in this sequel! Lara Jean goes through some major changes in this book, and I didn't think it was possible for me to love her more than I already did, but Han has a charm of proving me wrong. <i>P.S. I Still Love You </i>was an absolute wonderful conclusion.</div>
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(P.S. I really want to play a game of Assassin now)</div>
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<b>9. <i>MY HEART AND OTHER BLACK HOLES </i>- JASMINE WARGA</b></div>
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Another contemporary on this list! This one is much darker than <i>P.S. I Still Love You</i>, but Warga takes on the dilemmas of suicide and depression with total grace in this one. My favorite part about <i>My Heart and Other Black Holes </i>is that it doesn't focus on the dark side of depression; it shows the light that's in the world and shows the little things that makes life worth living. Jasmine Warga's debut was stellar, and I'm ecstatic to see what she comes up with next.</div>
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<b>8. <i>ATLANTIA </i>- ALLY CONDIE</b></div>
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This was one of the first books I read in 2015, and it's still stuck with me. Everything about <i>Atlantia </i>worked for me: the underwater setting, the science behind how the habitat works, the mystery behind the truth, <i>everything</i>. I loved the relationship between Rio and her sister and how Rio will fight for whatever she loves. And the world-building was incredible. Condie created this new, aquatic world in <i>Atlantia </i>that was rich, fascinating, and darkly grim all at the same time, and I <i>loved </i>it. But I'm almost positive I remember this being bought initially as a duology, but <i>Atlantia </i>is now a standalone. Even though it wraps up nicely, I wouldn't object to reading the sequel. Still, sequel or no sequel, <i>Atlantia </i>was a definite hit for me.</div>
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<b>7. <i> THE CAGE (THE CAGE, #1)</i><i> </i>- MEGAN SHEPHERD</b></div>
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It's official: Megan Shepherd is one of my all-time favorite authors. The Madman's Daughter trilogy remains one of my favorite series <i>ever</i>, and <i>The Cage </i>is an extremely promising start to her new series. Brimming with sci-fi and world-building I've never seen before, I had high hopes for <i>The Cage </i>right from the beginning, and they were all met and exceeded. So many twists and turns, <i>The Cage </i>is sure to keep you up all night. Sequel now, please!</div>
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<b>6. <i>THE LIES ABOUT TRUTH </i>- COURTNEY C. STEVENS</b></div>
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Courtney C. Stevens's debut novel, <i>Faking Normal</i>, remains to be one of my top favorite contemporaries ever, and I knew that she would bring it again with <i>The Lies About Truth</i>, and I wasn't wrong! <i>The Lies About Truth </i>is a novel about healing and forgiveness, and Stevens put a beautiful touch on this story with Sadie and Max. Sadie was such a wonderful protagonist. I had so many emotions with her: I was cheering her on to find herself again, I became frustrated with her at times at her apprehension to situations, but I always stuck by her side. These characters come to life off the page, and <i>The Lies About Truth </i>is definitely a new favorite of mine. Then again, this <i>is </i>Courtney C. Stevens, so I knew I would be adding this to my favorites shelf after I turned the final page!</div>
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<b>5. <i>THE WINNER'S CRIME (THE WINNER'S TRILOGY, #2) </i>- MARIE RUTKOSKI</b></div>
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<i>The Winner's Curse </i>is one of the best books I've ever read (making the spot at #2 on my favorite books of 2013). I adore high fantasy, and Rutkoski's world of Valoria was enriching and brilliant. I was so stoked to return to it in the sequel, and I was not disappointed! It started off a tad slow in the beginning, but right around page 140, the tables were turned and twist after turn was thrown at me from there until the ending (that ending?! Seriously?! I need book three now!) and I loved every second of it. And I loved how <i>The Winner's Crime </i>didn't follow the same pattern as the first book; this sequel mainly focus on the politics and the "playing to win" strategy of this country's government, and it was so refreshing to see something new like that. This has quickly became one of my favorite series of all-time. I can't wait to see how it all concludes in <i>The Winner's Kiss</i>!</div>
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<b>4. <i>FAIREST (THE LUNAR CHRONICLES, #3.5) </i>- MARISSA MEYER</b></div>
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It's no secret that The Lunar Chronicles is one of my favorite series ever. It's also no secret that its villain, Queen Levana, <i>is </i>my favorite villain in YA. When it was announced that we were getting an extra book in this series that would be a prequel and focus on Queen Levana and her origins, I was bouncing off the walls. You get to see how Levana unravels to insanity in <i>Fairest</i>, and I soared through this book. Marissa Meyer posted a quote about villains, saying that <b>"The villain believes they are the hero of the story"</b>, and it's so interesting to read <i>Fairest </i>with that mindset. Levana is no doubt wicked and cruel, but she believes that what she does is so good, and it's so interesting to see her downfall in this prequel. WORDS CANNOT BEGIN TO DESCRIBE HOW EXCITED I AM FOR <i>WINTER</i>, YOU KNOW IT'S GOING TO DEMOLISH US ALL.</div>
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<b>3. <i>HEIR OF FIRE (THRONE OF GLASS, #3) </i>- SARAH J. MAAS</b></div>
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OH GOOD GOD, <i>THIS SERIES IS GOING TO BE THE DEATH OF ME. </i>No words can do justice the epic novel that <b>is</b> <i>Heir of Fire</i>. I will be honest that this wasn't my favorite installment in the beginning. I found the new world that Celaena was dropped into to be awkward and out of place. However, I eventually came around to it, and halfway through this behemoth is when everything clicked and I was completely absorbed into this world. That ending was phenomenal. Celaena is on her way to becoming my favorite heroine in YA. She's strong, cares for the ones she loves, and is the definition of epic. Each installment in this series keeps getting stronger and stronger, and we still have three more to go! NOW GIMME <i>QUEEN OF SHADOWS</i> I CAN'T WAIT ANY LONGER.</div>
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<b>2. <i>A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES (ACOTAR, #1) </i>- SARAH J. MAAS</b></div>
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Sarah J. Maas, you are such a genius. I've been raving about ACOTAR ever since I finished it, and I don't see that stopping anytime soon. My favorite part about ACOTAR is the world-building. The Fae world was lush and dense, and the human world was brutal and frigid with winter. The compare and contrast was stunning. And Feyre (like Celaena) was SO AWESOME. She's cunning, whip-smart, and an absolute blast to be with on this journey. Maas has became of my favorite authors this year, and I'm excited to see where she'll take us next with her both of her series. These books are absolutely incredible!</div>
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<b>1. <i>AN EMBER IN THE ASHES (AEITA, #1) </i>- SABBA TAHIR</b></div>
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*screams on the inside for five years*</div>
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This is only Tahir's debut novel, but this was <b>SPECTACULAR</b>. It's high fantasy (which I'm a sucker for), and everything about <i>An Ember in the Ashes </i>hit the mark with me. Laia was such a wonderful character; she starts off broken in the beginning, but she evolves into this firecracker by the end. And Elias strayed away from the norm with being a rebellious, prodigy soldier, and I appreciated the diversity in his character. The Trials were fantastic and kept me on my seat the entire time. The world-building was kept to Laia's hometown and the empire, but I still loved seeing those. However, we'll get to hopefully see more of this world in the sequel. Speaking of which, SEQUEL! THANK GOODNESS! I cannot contain my excitement. <i>An Ember in the Ashes </i>was absolutely brilliant. I'm still in shock. </div>
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What were your favorite books you've read this year so far?</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-30584259911834741052015-06-15T13:49:00.002-05:002015-06-15T13:49:37.064-05:00An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read from May 12 to 15, 2015</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20560137-an-ember-in-the-ashes?from_search=true&search_version=service_impr">AN EMBER IN THE ASHES</a></b><br />
Published: April 28, 2015<br />
Publisher: Razorbill (Penguin)<br />
Format: Hardcover<br />
Page Count: 446 pages<br />
Source: Purchased<br />
Series: <i>An Ember in the Ashes</i>, #1<br />
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<b><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i>Laia is a slave.</i></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Neither is free.</i></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Under the Martial Empire, defiance is met with death. Those who do not vow their blood and bodies to the Emperor risk the execution of their loved ones and the destruction of all they hold dear.</span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It is in this brutal world, inspired by ancient Rome, that Laia lives with her grandparents and older brother. The family ekes out an existence in the Empire’s impoverished backstreets. They do not challenge the Empire. They’ve seen what happens to those who do.</span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">But when Laia’s brother is arrested for treason, Laia is forced to make a decision. In exchange for help from rebels who promise to rescue her brother, she will risk her life to spy for them from within the Empire’s greatest military academy.</span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">There, Laia meets Elias, the school’s finest soldier—and secretly, its most unwilling. Elias wants only to be free of the tyranny he’s being trained to enforce. He and Laia will soon realize that their destinies are intertwined—and that their choices will change the fate of the Empire itself.</span></b></div>
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CANNOT COMPUTE HOW FANTASTIC THIS WAS. I'm an absolute sucker for a good fantasy novel, but woah, this novel absolutely blew me away. Thrilling and un-put-down-able, <i>An Ember in the Ashes </i>is truly one of a kind. I've never read anything like this; it's been weeks since I've finished this and it's <i>still </i>on my mind. I absolutely loved this.</div>
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Whenever there is major hype surrounding a book, it's easy to have expectations and be disappointed when they're not met. However, I can fully say that <i>An Ember in the Ashes </i>lives up to and deserves all the hype and praise surrounding it. What I loved most about this novel was that every time I put it down, I always looked forward to picking it back up. I can't believe that this is Tahir's debut novel. Her writing was <i>marvelous</i>. She intertwined two completely different stories and characters to make it one incredible arc of a novel. I am completely blown away by <i>An Ember in the Ashes</i>. An absolute must-read!</div>
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The world-building was fantastic. From the slums of Laia's home to the vast, mysterious academy where Elias is, <i>An Ember in the Ashes </i>creates a world that is dark and imaginative, and I <i>loved </i>every second of it. I'm ecstatic to see more of this world in the sequel. Speaking of which, <i style="font-weight: bold;">Thank. God. </i>there is a sequel. And the action in this book! There's so many twists and turns throughout <i>An Ember in the Ashes </i>and I couldn't put it down.</div>
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Laia is such a wonderful heroine. She starts off as a weak, broken character in the beginning, but as the novel progresses, she morphs into a force to be reckoned with. I really loved seeing her character development; she definitely did a complete 180º, and I'm ecstatic to see where her story goes in the sequel. And Elias was such an awesome lead too. I thought that he would be the typical "perfect soldier" who changes his mind after meeting the female protagonist, but Tahir made him really unique and strayed away from the norm, and I really appreciate it. They were a fire duo; definitely one of my new favorite power couples in YA.</div>
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Overall, <i>An Ember in the Ashes </i>is a radiant read that grabs you from page one and doesn't let you go. One of my new favorite fantasies of all-time.</div>
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<b>M Y R A T I N G</b><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-38973958824327305812015-06-10T12:20:00.001-05:002015-06-10T12:25:09.655-05:00A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wisconsinbookfestival.org/sites/default/files/A%20Court%20of%20Thorns%20and%20Roses_0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.wisconsinbookfestival.org/sites/default/files/A%20Court%20of%20Thorns%20and%20Roses_0.jpg" height="400" width="262" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read from May 23 to June 2, 2015</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16096824-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses?from_search=true&search_version=service_impr">A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES</a></b><br />
Published: May 5, 2015<br />
Publisher: Bloomsbury<br />
Format: Hardcover<br />
Page Count: 416 pages<br />
Source: Purchased<br />
Series: <i>A Court of Thorns and Roses</i>, #1<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><i>A thrilling, seductive new series from New York Times bestselling author Sarah J. Maas, blending Beauty and the Beast with faerie lore.</i></span></span></b><br />
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><b>SHE STOLE A LIFE. NOW SHE MUST PAY WITH HERS.</b></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">When nineteen-year-old huntress Feyre kills a wolf in the woods, a beast-like creature arrives to demand retribution for it. Dragged to a treacherous magical land she only knows about from legends, Feyre discovers that her captor is not an animal, but Tamlin—one of the lethal, immortal faeries who once ruled their world.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">As she dwells on his estate, her feelings for Tamlin transform from icy hostility into a fiery passion that burns through every lie and warning she's been told about the beautiful, dangerous world of the Fae. But an ancient, wicked shadow grows over the faerie lands, and Feyre must find a way to stop it . . . or doom Tamlin—and his world—forever.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">Perfect for fans of Kristin Cashore and George R. R. Martin, this first book in a sexy and action-packed new series is impossible to put down!</span></span></b></div>
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You know that feeling when you are <i>so </i>ecstatic for a book you can hardly stand it? And even better, when that book exceeds all of your expectations? I'm so pleased to say that <i>A Court of Thorns and Roses</i> was wonderful in every sense of the word. Brimming with magic between the pages, ACOTAR is a spectacular start to a <i>very </i>promising series. Sarah J. Maas is easily one of my new favorite fantasy writers.</div>
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I've been looking forward to ACOTAR ever since it was first announced. Not only was I excited to see a new series from Maas (I adored<i> Throne of Glass</i>), but the concept for this one was so intriguing: a re-interpretation of Beauty and the Beast with fae and hunters; sign me up! ACOTAR did not disappoint whatsoever. Maas <i>perfectly </i>blended together this new fae world with Beauty and the Beast. Feyre was such an awesome heroine to follow around. She was headstrong, determined, and wasn't afraid to stand up for herself; I can always count on Maas to give me a hero that doesn't need anyone else to save them, and it's so refreshing to see that in YA. Tamlin's two personalities were really stunning: you have his calm, good-natured side and you have his wild, beastly (literally) side. Even though they both have their flaws, I never once stopped rooting for Feyre and Tamlin. These characters were wonderful to follow, but then again, this is Sarah J. Maas book, so I didn't expect anything less.</div>
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My favorite part of <i>any </i>novel is the world-building, and ACOTAR's world was incredible. I loved seeing two sides to this world: there's the harsh, winter landscape of the mortal world that is crumbling to pieces, and then you have the lavish, rich world of the fae. Both sides are vast opposites, but Maas does a spectacular job entwining them together. And there's so many layers to this world! From dark, creepy forests to marvelous castles to mountains that will scare the heck out of you, ACOTAR has everything you could possibly want in a fantasy novel.</div>
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Maas can write a storm of a novel. I was hooked from page one, and it was nearly impossible to put down ACOTAR. The action sequences were thrilling, the romance was realistic and wasn't forced, and I <i>loved </i>the drops of foreshadowing that Mass included throughout the book. The ending! Mind = literally blown. No spoilers here, but seriously, I was so pleased with this ending; I didn't see it coming, and it made the story 10x better. Book two, please!</div>
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Overall, <i>A Court of Thorns and Roses </i>lives up to all the hype it has garnered. Burning bright with magical elements and nail-biting sequences, ACOTAR is a true gem. I can't wait for the sequel!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-29708413640647465822014-07-25T20:58:00.000-05:002015-06-09T23:07:02.223-05:00Brad About Books: Between the Spark and the Burn by April Genevieve Tucholke<div style="text-align: left;">
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18667954-between-the-spark-and-the-burn?from_search=true">BETWEEN THE SPARK AND THE BURN</a></b><br />
Expected Publication Date: August 14, 2014<br />
Publisher: Dial (Penguin)<br />
Format: ARC<br />
Page Count: 320 pages<br />
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review<br />
Series: <i>Between</i>, #2<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This review is entirely spoiler free, even if you haven't read book one, <i><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12930909-between-the-devil-and-the-deep-blue-sea">Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea</a></i>.</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://bookyareview.blogspot.com/2013/07/brad-about-books-between-devil-and-deep.html"><b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Read my review for book one here.</span></b></a></div>
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<i>Between the Spark and the Burn </i>was everything I hoped it would be and more. With an eerie atmosphere and prose that grabbed me right from the beginning, <i>Between the Spark and the Burn </i>is an absorbing, exhilarating sequel that shouldn't be missed.</div>
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It's no surprise that I absolutely adored Tucholke's first part in this duology, <i>Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea</i>. With its fantastic atmosphere and characters worth rooting for, what's not to like? So needless to say, I was <i>thrilled </i>to see just how things would wrap up for these dark, brooding, mysterious characters. And I loved this sequel. Absolutely, one-hundred percent <i>loved </i>it. Tucholke's writing has an eerie, spine-tingling vibe that comes off the pages, and I never knew if I could fully trust the characters. It's vivid, lush, and completely addictive. So many twists and turns shocked in <i>Between the Spark and the Burn</i>. Due to the events at the end of book one, I had no idea how River and Violet's story would pan out, but I certainly didn't expect a lot of things that happened in this sequel. And I <i>loved </i>how Tucholke always kept me guessing. There's never a dull moment in this duology. </div>
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Violet and River were two of my favorite characters from my 2013 reads and seeing their character progression and development in this finale was stunning. Violet, though she's broken on the inside, is fierce and strong, and River is completely insane, but they make for even more dark, haunting characters. Following Violet as she searches for answers and secrets was thrilling. Tucholke shows the reader more sides of this eerie landscape, and getting an insight into the world of River and his past in <i>Between the Spark and the Burn </i>was seriously awesome. I didn't think I could like them more than I already did, but Tucholke definitely proved me wrong.</div>
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And can we just talk about this series as a whole? It's got everything a paranormal fan could want: fantastic world-building, characters you can never fully trust, and an ending you'll never see coming. Seriously, Tucholke's books have landed a permanent spot on my Favorites shelf. If you're looking for the next series to binge-read, completely dive into, and be hooked on, look no further. The <i>Between </i>duology is for you. We all know the dreaded Sequel Slump, but that completely passed over <i>Between the Spark and the Burn</i>. I loved this one even more than the first book. So, so good.</div>
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Overall, <i>Between the Spark and the Burn </i>is a sequel of epic proportions and twists and turns that will have you on the edge of your seat the entire time. One of the best sequels I've read in a long time.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-86219890755956577132014-07-09T22:58:00.001-05:002015-06-09T23:09:13.328-05:00Brad About Books: Landline by Rainbow Rowell<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read from June 16 to 17, 2014</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18081809-landline?from_search=true">LANDLINE</a></b><br />
Published: July 8, 2014<br />
Publisher: St. Martin's Press<br />
Format: Hardcover<br />
Page Count: 308 pages<br />
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Georgie McCool knows her marriage is in trouble. That it’s been in trouble for a long time. She still loves her husband, Neal, and Neal still loves her, deeply — but that almost seems besides the point now.</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Maybe that was always besides the point.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">Two days before they’re supposed to visit Neal’s family in Omaha for Christmas, Georgie tells Neal that she can’t go. She’s a TV writer, and something’s come up on her show; she has to stay in Los Angeles. She knows that Neal will be upset with her — Neal is always a little upset with Georgie — but she doesn’t expect to him to pack up the kids and go home without her.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">When her husband and the kids leave for the airport, Georgie wonders if she’s finally done it. If she’s ruined everything.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">That night, Georgie discovers a way to communicate with Neal in the past. It’s not time travel, not exactly, but she feels like she’s been given an opportunity to fix her marriage before it starts . . .</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">Is that what she’s supposed to do?</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">Or would Georgie and Neal be better off if their marriage never happened?</span></span></b></div>
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<i>Landline </i>is a thought-provoking, mesmerizing tale of the true meaning of love and finding out what's most important in this world. Just as I expected, Rowell delivered once again a masterpiece of laugh out loud moments, heartbreak, and times where I was fully captivated by the book. <i>Landline </i>is hands down a must-read.</div>
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I read <i><a href="http://bookyareview.blogspot.com/2013/04/brad-about-books-eleanor-park-by.html">Eleanor & Park</a> </i>and <i><a href="http://bookyareview.blogspot.com/2013/09/brad-about-books-fangirl-by-rainbow.html">Fangirl</a> </i>by Rowell in 2013, and obviously, I fell in love with them (because seriously, who <i>doesn't </i>love Rainbow Rowell?). <i>Landline </i>was my first venture into her adult novels, and I have to say, I was definitely pleased with what I received! While it didn't have quite the exact same emotional appeal that I had with the previous two novels I had read, the emotional appeal was there for sure. Every character in <i>Landline </i>is a gem - seriously. Georgie is, without a doubt, one of the best protagonists I've ever read about. She has her flaws and isn't sure what to do with her life, and I <i>loved </i>venturing with a character who <i>didn't </i>have everything figured out with her life, though she's expected to by now. She's broken and bruised and trying to keep her head up, and my attachment with Georgie went beyond the pages. And I loved how this book wasn't one sided - Georgie is selfish at times, Neal (her husband) is selfish at times too, so Georgie gets her heartbroken from Neal. <i>But</i>, Neal also gets his heartbroken from Georgie - I believe it's rarely shown in novels both sides of the spectrum of heartbreak and selfishness, and I applaud Rowell for incorporating <i>everything </i>of this dilemma between these two people in <i>Landline</i>. Seriously, Rainbow Rowell <i>never </i>fails with her novels.</div>
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Rowell's writing style is always one of a kind, and <i>Landline </i>was no exception. With <i>Landline</i>, the emotional attachment you feel to Rowell's characters is different compared to her other ones. Honestly, I didn't always like Georgie at times. I found her to be self-centered at times and downright oblivious at times to everything around her; however, I loved Georgie for this. She wasn't perfect, and Rowell didn't leave out any of the gritty parts of her character and didn't sugarcoat anything. I was so attached to Georgie in this book. Then again, I'm always attached to Rowell's character, so what else was to be expected of? </div>
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And if you're needing something to spice up your reading life with uniqueness, <i>Landline </i>has got you covered. With Rowell's signature style and a dash of magical realism folded throughout the pages, <i>Landline </i>is sure to have you tangled up in its storyline until the very end. While it was definitely different to see a magic telephone that allowed Georgie to talk to her husband before they were married, it was quirky and interesting. I had some questions though of how Neal-before-marriage and Georgie-before-marriage could have discussions if what Georgie-in-present-day said to Neal-before-marriage altered his opinion on things, but still, Rowell handled the parallel plot-lines masterfully.</div>
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Overall, <i>Landline </i>is a powerful, sizzling novel full of heartbreak, first love, and hardship that is executed like none other. Rowell's latest novel is sure to appeal new fans while pleasing previous ones. Absolutely loved it!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-79536825197997798772014-07-07T22:54:00.001-05:002015-06-09T23:10:28.068-05:00Brad About Books: Earthquake by Aprilynne Pike<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/916cqx4Uv%2BL._SL1500_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/916cqx4Uv%2BL._SL1500_.jpg" height="400" width="260" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read on July 6, 2014</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18668032-earthquake">EARTHQUAKE</a></b><br />
Expected Publication Date: July 8, 2014<br />
Publisher: Razorbill (Penguin)<br />
Format: ARC<br />
Page Count: 383 pages<br />
Source: Publisher in exchange for a honest review<br />
Series: <i>Earthbound</i>, #2<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This review is entirely spoiler free, even if you haven't read book one, <i>Earthbound</i>.</span></b></div>
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Aprilynne Pike is undoubtably one of my favorite authors of all-time, and she <i>nailed </i>it with this sequel. <i>Earthquake </i>is a vibrant, pulse-pounding sequel that not only lives up to the expectations set by the first installment, but passes them greatly. One of the most unique and absorbing series I've read in a long time.</div>
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Like I said before, Aprilynne Pike is one of the authors I know I can trust to have me hooked in her story and completely engulfed by the world and characters, and believe me, she did just that it with <i>Earthquake</i>! Everyone (including me - most <i>definitely </i>me) is scared of the dreaded Sequel Slump where the sequel doesn't live up to expectations, but that slump completely missed <i>Earthquake</i>. There's never a dull moment on these pages, and running around with Tavia, Logan, and Benson again was fantastic. As Tavia learns more about herself and harnesses her inner self, she morphs from this naïve character to one of the strongest heroines I've read about, and I <i>adored </i>her character development in this sequel. She's fierce, determined, and loyal to all those she trusts, and getting to see Tavia in full action again was great. Needless to say, this sequel did not disappoint. </div>
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If you're needing a refreshing, original series to completely sweep you away, the Earthbound series is the way to go. With its charming prose and intoxicating world, this series is one of the most addictive stories I've read in a long time. When I'm with Tavia, I feel completely emerged into her world of secrets and lies, and I never know what to expect on the next page - and I <i>love </i>that Pike can keep me guessing like that. <i>Earthquake </i>raises the stakes even higher for Tavia. I was flipping through these pages as fast as I could; the storyline was so enthralling, and this sequel is the kind of the sequel that hooks you in right from the beginning and never loosens its grip. </div>
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Aprilynne Pike is a <i>master </i>of suspense and buildup. Whether its intense action or hair-raising secrets that change the game for Tavia forever, <i>Earthquake </i>is always keeping the energy alive as Tavia races to find the truth about the world surrounding her. If you loved <i>Earthbound</i>, prepare to be pulled further in by this second installment. A true gem amongst the sci-fi genre. </div>
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Overall, <i>Earthquake </i>is an electric, absorbing sequel that is sure to draw in more fans and leave fans gasping for more. Rich, exhilarating, and absolutely incredible, Pike has once more crafted a heart-racing story with an impeccable world and a heroine worth rooting for.</div>
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<b>M Y R A T I N G</b><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-80039573584091977972014-06-05T21:47:00.001-05:002015-06-09T23:11:55.610-05:00Brad About Books: Dorothy Must Die by Danielle Paige<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://torontopubliclibrary.typepad.com/.a/6a00e5509ea6a1883401a3fd044f7f970b-pi" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://torontopubliclibrary.typepad.com/.a/6a00e5509ea6a1883401a3fd044f7f970b-pi" height="400" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read from April 9 to 12, 2014</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18053060-dorothy-must-die?from_search=true">DOROTHY MUST DIE</a></b><br />
Published: April 1, 2014<br />
Publisher: HarperTeen<br />
Format: Hardcover<br />
Page Count: 452 pages<br />
Source: Purchased<br />
Series: <i>Dorothy Must Die</i>, #1<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">I didn't ask for any of this. I didn't ask to be some kind of hero.</span></span></b></div>
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<b><b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">But when your whole life gets swept up by a tornado—taking you with it—you have no choice but to go along, you know?</span></span></b></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">Sure, I've read the books. I've seen the movies. I know the song about the rainbow and the happy little blue birds. But I never expected Oz to look like this. To be a place where Good Witches can't be trusted, Wicked Witches may just be the good guys, and winged monkeys can be executed for acts of rebellion. There's still the yellow brick road, though—but even that's crumbling.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">What happened?</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">Dorothy. They say she found a way to come back to Oz. They say she seized power and the power went to her head. And now no one is safe.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">My name is Amy Gumm—and I'm the other girl from Kansas.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">I've been recruited by the Revolutionary Order of the Wicked.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">I've been trained to fight.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">And I have a mission:</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">Remove the Tin Woodman's heart.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">Steal the Scarecrow's brain.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">Take the Lion's courage.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">Then and only then—Dorothy must die.</span></span></b></div>
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Brimming with <i>phenomenal </i>world-building and irresistible characters that you'll fall in love with instantly, <i>Dorothy Must Die </i>is one of the most captivating, addictive books I've read in a very long time. One of the most outstanding debuts I've read that's sure to never die down in hype. </div>
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I had ridiculously high expectations for <i>Dorothy Must Die</i>, since it was amongst my top most anticipated books for 2014. You have no idea how happy I was to find that all my expectations were met and exceeded. I have to start off with my favorite part about <i>Dorothy Must Die</i>, and though it's usually my favorite part about any novel, there was just something <i>different </i>with this one: the world-building. The world in this novel was spectacular. I'm a sucker for any re-telling, and when I heard that this was a <i>Wizard of Oz</i> re-telling, I was ecstatic. Oz is such a dark, sinister place in <i>Dorothy Must Die</i>. Paige does an exceptional job at turning this once lush, ravishing, and beautiful place into a twisted, morbid, and gloomy place of disaster - and I loved every second of it. There's so much detail put into this new world, and I applaud Danielle Paige for being able to pull off this re-telling with this world. The world was frightening and filled with darkness, but it made the story even stronger and more addicting. I can't even with this book. Fantastic!</div>
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Amy Gumm is a heroine worth rooting for. I will admit, I had my ups and downs with Amy. Sure, I can totally see where she's coming from with being thrust into a new landscape (especially <i>Oz </i>of all places), and I can see where she could be wary of being trusting or stubborn, but she was too stubborn at times. However, that didn't stop me from loving <i>Dorothy Must Die</i>. Also, can I just say that Dorothy is one of my new favorite villains <i>ever</i>?! Imagine a reality TV star with an ego 10x the normal self-esteem and you've got yourself Dorothy. She was psychotic and monstrous, and I absolutely loved to hate her and hated to love her. The fact that the wicked witches were basically the good guys was really cool to read about. I loved how Paige still kept their roots of darkness and evil within them, but she truly does show that there can be two sides to people. All the characters in <i>Dorothy Must Die</i> (especially the Lion! Oh my gosh, he was insane!) were marvelous, and I can't wait to see their development in the sequel.</div>
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Speaking of the sequel, I need it now! Though this novel is pretty hefty with its 450+ pages, it moves so quickly, and there's hardly ever a dull moment with this book. If you're looking for something that will consume you whole until you've finished it and something that's never been done before, <i>Dorothy Must Die </i>fits the bill. With its exciting plot, fantastic villains, and one of a kind twists and turns, <i>Dorothy Must Die </i>is a nail-biting, pulse-pounding read that will make you question everything you know about Oz. One of my new favorites, for sure!</div>
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Overall, <i>Dorothy Must Die </i>was everything I wanted from a book and more. Fantastically woven together and masterfully pulled off, <i>Dorothy Must Die </i>is the kind of book that was still tattooed on my mind long after I turned the final page. More, please!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-29474474184120511182014-06-04T22:07:00.001-05:002015-06-09T23:13:39.083-05:00Brad About Books: Hungry by H.A. Swain <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.macteenbooks.com/books/spring2014/images/hungry_cvr.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.macteenbooks.com/books/spring2014/images/hungry_cvr.png" height="400" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read from March 5 to 7, 2014</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18525734-hungry">HUNGRY</a></b><br />
Published: June 3, 2014<br />
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends (Macmillan)<br />
Format: ARC<br />
Page Count: 384 pages<br />
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">In the future, food is no longer necessary—until Thalia begins to feel something unfamiliar and uncomfortable. She’s hungry.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">In Thalia’s world, there is no need for food—everyone takes medication (or “inocs”) to ward off hunger. It should mean there is no more famine, no more obesity, no more food-related illnesses, and no more war. At least that's what her parents, who work for the company that developed the inocs, say. But when Thalia meets a boy who is part of an underground movement to bring food back, she realizes that most people live a life much different from hers. Worse, Thalia is starting to feel hunger, and so is he—the inocs aren’t working. Together they set out to find the only thing that will quell their hunger: real food.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">H. A. Swain delivers an adventure that is both epic and fast-paced. Get ready to be </span><em style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Hungry</em><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">.</span></span></b><br />
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<i>Hungry </i>is unlike anything I've ever read in a fantastic way. This refreshing dystopian is sure to have you chomping at the bits and craving for more long after the final page.<br />
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I'm sure that we're all somewhat tired of the dystopian genre: it's been blowing up over the last couple of years in YA, and eventually, it gets to be just a tad tiresome. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love the genre, but I do need a break now and then. However, <i>Hungry </i>is unlike any other dystopian I've ever read. Yes, <i>Hungry </i>revolves around the idea of food not being a necessity and a revolution to bring it back; I would've never imagined up this world. Food is most definitely a necessity in life, but what do you do when it's no longer a need? And of course, <i>Hungry </i>takes the route of the government (or technically, scientists in this case) controlling the people, but <i>Hungry</i>'s premise makes it unique and stand out amongst other dystopians out there today. Packed with its remarkable world-building and outstanding characters, <i>Hungry </i>delivers a dystopian unlike any other that is sure to appeal to fans of <i>Legend </i>and <i>The Program</i>. <i>Hungry </i>had me in its clutches the entire time and never let me go!<br />
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Speaking of characters, Thalia was a great protagonist! In a world where scientists (especially scientists who are your <i>parents</i>) control what you consume and your nutrients and Thalia isn't sure who to trust after a foreign feeling begins to grow inside her, I could totally understand where she was coming from for the majority of the novel. I loved following her on this incredible journey. However, I will admit that this journey got confusing at times, which was my main problem with the novel. There's a lot of sci-fi crafted into <i>Hungry</i>, and I applaud Swain for being able to pull the science element of the novel off, but with all the somewhat info-dumps and world-building that goes above and beyond some dystopians, it was hard for me to keep track of the events and characters sometimes. It was eventually sorted out, though, but that was the hardest part for me to connect to with <i>Hungry</i>.<br />
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And the writing was superb. I felt completely immersed into this world and felt as if I were traveling alongside Thalia and Basil and the underground revolution. While it was hard to deal with the insta-love of Thalia and Basil, I still enjoyed their relationship nonetheless. And woah, the plot twists that <i>Hungry </i>throws! There were a couple times that my mouth actually fell open, and I had to set the book down just to let the events sink in - I love that when a book can do that to me. So needless to say, <i>Hungry </i>is an action-packed, twisted, and mind-bending story that has plenty of thrills and secrets to keep the reader fully invested in the story.<br />
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Overall, <i>Hungry </i>is a one of a kind dystopian that shouldn't be missed. Needing something new in you're dystopian craving needs? <i>Hungry </i>will most definitely fill and satisfy that need.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-89000677141937835532014-05-31T20:14:00.001-05:002015-06-09T23:14:42.130-05:00Brad About Books: The Merciless by Danielle Vega<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read from March 11 to 12, 2014</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18667769-the-merciless?from_search=true">THE MERCILESS</a></b><br />
Expected Publication Date: June 12, 2014<br />
Publisher: Razorbill (Penguin)<br />
Format: ARC<br />
Page Count: 279 pages<br />
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Brooklyn Stevens sits in a pool of her own blood, tied up and gagged. No one outside of these dank basement walls knows she’s here. No one can hear her scream.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">Sofia Flores knows she shouldn’t have gotten involved. When she befriended Riley, Grace, and Alexis on her first day at school, she admired them, with their perfect hair and their good-girl ways. They said they wanted to save Brooklyn. They wanted to help her. Sofia didn’t realize they believed Brooklyn was possessed.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">Now, Riley and the girls are performing an exorcism on Brooklyn—but their idea of an exorcism is closer to torture than salvation. All Sofia wants is to get out of this house. But there is no way out. Sofia can’t go against the other girls . . . unless she wants to be next. . . .</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #181818;">In this chilling debut, Danielle Vega delivers blood-curdling suspense and terror on every page. By the shockingly twisted end, readers will be faced with the most haunting question of all: Is there evil in all of us?</span></span></b></div>
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<i>The Merciless </i>is a mind-twisting, fully engrossing story that had me on the edge of my seat from page one and never let me go. I have never read anything like this, and this seriously chilled me to the bone. I <i>adored </i>this book. </div>
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First things first, this book is messed up in the best way possible. I absolutely love that Vega took some risks with <i>The Merciless</i>. So many things in this book disturbed me and freaked me out like no other book has, and I honestly can't believe it, but I <i>loved </i>every single second of this book. There is never a dull moment in <i>The Merciless</i> - I couldn't put it down. From the darkness lurking around each corner to the sinister secrets that the girls are harboring, everything about <i>The Merciless </i>will have you looking over your shoulder and send chills up your spine. This is, hands down, one of my favorite books I've read this year. This was a phenomenal debut. </div>
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There are <i>so </i>many twists and turns in this novel. When Brooklyn was chained up in the basement and the girls were planning their sinister plots, I was seriously scared to death (it probably didn't help that I was home alone when I read this). I've read some YA horror novels, but none of them have kept me so engrossed and so scared like <i>The Merciless </i>did, and I applaud Vega for doing that. Sofia was a stunning protagonist. I felt that she was very realistic with her situation of wanting to fit in, and I loved how she was honest with herself - if she ever questioned whether she was just as evil as Riley and the gang, she never wavered from it or contradicted herself. It was so refreshing to read about a protagonist who wasn't always confident in knowing what she capable of it; it made the story even more creepy, haunting, and addictive. And the girls… they're some of the best villains I've ever read about. Riley was a headstrong, fearless, and evil ringleader of the clan, and I couldn't help but love to hate her, but hate to love her. Grace and Alexis, on the other hand… I loved how I could never tell what they were going to do next. I was always questioning who's side they were truly on, and I loved how this book kept me guessing.</div>
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That's another thing - <i>this book is so unpredictable. </i>There was one point where I thought I had figured the mystery out, but I was completely wrong. The spin that Vega sent instead was even more mind-blowing than I could have possibly imagined, and it made me fall even more head-over-heels in love with <i>The Merciless</i>. If you're looking for something different in YA that will have you completely wrapped up in the story, <i>The Merciless </i>has got you covered. One of the best debuts I've ever read. </div>
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Overall, <i>The Merciless </i>is a must-read. Haunting, chilling, and one of a kind, <i>The Merciless </i>had me at its mercy by keeping me up late into the night and always checking over my shoulder. Fantastic in every sense of the word.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-73892189301323030082014-03-13T22:03:00.001-05:002015-06-09T23:16:02.542-05:00Brad About Books: Nil by Lynne Matson<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read on September 29, 2013</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18005276-nil">NIL</a></b><br />
Published: March 4, 2014<br />
Publisher: Henry Holt and Co. (Macmillan)<br />
Format: ARC<br />
Page Count: 384 pages<br />
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">How do you escape from an island that doesn't exist?</span></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">On the mysterious island of Nil, the rules are set. You have exactly 365 days to escape—or you die.</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">Seventeen-year-old Charley doesn’t know the rules. She doesn’t even know where she is. The last thing she remembers is blacking out, and when she wakes up, she’s naked in an empty rock field.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818;">Lost and alone, Charley finds no sign of other people until she meets Thad, the gorgeous leader of a clan of teenage refugees. Soon Charley learns that leaving the island is harder than she thought . . . and so is falling in love. With Thad’s time running out, Charley realizes that she has to find a way to beat the clock, and quickly.</span></span></b></div>
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<i>Nil </i>is a thrilling, heart-pounding read that had me tangled up in the race against the clock of surviving this deadly island - it's unlike anything I've ever read!</div>
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<i>Nil </i>starts off with a bang and the action never stops. Right from page one, Matson throws us into turmoil right alongside the characters, and each page has something to offer that will either having your heart racing or have you looking over your shoulder (or both!), and I really loved that she managed to capture the feeling of fear in <i>Nil</i>. This island is a true nightmare and with all the secrets that are revealed about the island, I would hate to be stuck on it - but it was a blast to read about. The clock is ticking for our characters, and Matson does an exceptional job at keeping the energy going throughout <i>Nil</i>.</div>
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Speaking of characters, I thoroughly enjoyed all of the inhabitants on Nil! Charley is such an awesome protagonist. I loved her smokey, unclear background - she wakes up not knowing anything about the island, and we get to discover the secrets with her. Not only do we discover secrets about the island, we get to know more about Charley and the other characters throughout <i>Nil</i>, and I thought it was fantastic how no one was truly what they seemed to be. If I had just one complaint about <i>Nil</i>, it would be that I would've liked to have seen a little more character development from the side characters. Other than that, all the characters (or villagers of Nil, I guess you could say) are truly fascinating, and they're definitely one of the best team-effort YA groups I've ever read about!</div>
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I'm all for anything thriller/mystery/anything that can keep my eyes glued to the page and have me turning pages as fast as I can, and <i>Nil </i>did just the trick. From its absorbing atmosphere of darkness and peril to the small quirks of the island the reader discovers while sinking deeper into the mystery of the island Nil, <i>Nil </i>is sure to have readers entwined with its stunning mystery and haunting prose. </div>
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Overall, <i>Nil </i>is an epic, fast-paced thriller that is highly intriguing and addicting. Wonderful!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-40007164542276605322014-03-09T20:00:00.001-05:002015-06-09T23:17:44.653-05:00Brad About Books: Half Bad by Sally Green<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read from October 22 to 23, 2013</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18079804-half-bad?ac=1">HALF BAD</a></b><br />
Published: March 4, 2014<br />
Publisher: Viking Juvenile (Penguin)<br />
Format: ARC<br />
Page Count: 416 pages<br />
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review<br />
Series: <i>Half Life</i>, #1<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">A stunning, magical debut. An international sensation.</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">In modern-day England, witches live alongside humans: White witches, who are good; Black witches, who are evil; and fifteen-year-old Nathan, who is both. Nathan’s father is the world’s most powerful and cruel Black witch, and his mother is dead. He is hunted from all sides. Trapped in a cage, beaten and handcuffed, Nathan must escape before his sixteenth birthday, at which point he will receive three gifts from his father and come into his own as a witch—or else he will die. But how can Nathan find his father when his every action is tracked, when there is no one safe to trust—not even family, not even the girl he loves?</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818;">In the tradition of Patrick Ness and Markus Zusak, Half Bad is a gripping tale of alienation and the indomitable will to survive, a story that will grab hold of you and not let go until the very last page.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="color: #181818; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">BEGIN THE HUNT.</span></b></div>
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<i>Half Bad </i>is a stunning, captivating tale that caught my attention from page one and held onto me until the epic finale. It's unlike anything I've ever read, and I couldn't have asked for a more action-packed, engrossing tale from this book. Loved it!</div>
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I haven't read too many witch stories, but out of all of the ones I have read, <i>Half Bad </i>truly stands out. Nathan's character was <i>fantastic</i>. With the internal struggle of leaning towards his pure side or his dark, twisted side, the reader gets to discover <i>all </i>sides of Nathan in this novel, both good and bad. He transforms so much from the beginning to the end, and to see his character morph and change was awesome. He starts off weak and lonely in the beginning, but Green builds him up in <i>Half Bad </i>and definitely isn't afraid to tear him back down. Nathan is a hero worth rooting for. He goes through so many trials in <i>Half Bad</i>, and I absolutely loved how Sally Green handled his character development.</div>
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World-building is so important to me in a novel, and the world of <i>Half Bad </i>is marvelous. The views society has on witches - and the views witches have on society - blends into the storyline perfectly, and it alters the vision that the reader sees of our modern day world. I wasn't ever sure whether I should be rooting for the witches or hating them, and I loved how Green managed to capture that sense in this novel. <i>Half Bad </i>is all about finding your place in the world and figuring out yourself in the loneliness of times, and it truly is a brutal, phenomenal gem that was still on my mind long after I turned the final page. Masterfully plotted and intoxicating, <i>Half Bad </i>is an absolute must-read.</div>
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The paranormal genre could be a tad overdone at times, but <i>Half Bad </i>is something unlike anything that's ever been done before, and it will capture you until the very end. From heavy action scenes of daring escapes and finding the people who have abandoned you to scenes of discovering yourself within the darkest of places, <i>Half Bad </i>is everything you could want in a book. I still haven't gotten over this book.</div>
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Overall, <i>Half Bad </i>is one of a kind, and it will have you entangled with Nathan's world with its intrigue, mystical beauty, and world of lies and betrayal. <i>Half Bad </i>is astonishingly fantastic!</div>
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<b>M Y R A T I N G</b><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-41356404389308203142014-03-03T20:41:00.000-06:002015-06-09T23:18:59.897-05:00Brad About Books: The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkoski<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.readsleeprepeat.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/The-Winners-Curse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.readsleeprepeat.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/The-Winners-Curse.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read from December 16 to 19, 2013</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17756559-the-winner-s-curse">THE WINNER'S CURSE</a></b><br />
Expected Publication Date: March 4, 2014<br />
Publisher: FSG (Macmillan)<br />
Format: ARC<br />
Page Count: 355 pages<br />
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review<br />
Series: <i>The Winner's Trilogy</i>, #1<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><i>Winning what you want may cost you everything you love.</i></span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">As a general’s daughter in a vast empire that revels in war and enslaves those it conquers, seventeen-year-old Kestrel has two choices: she can join the military or get married. But Kestrel has other intentions. One day, she is startled to find a kindred spirit in a young slave up for auction. </span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818;">Arin’s eyes seem to defy everything and everyone. Following her instinct, Kestrel buys him—with unexpected consequences. It’s not long before she has to hide her growing love for Arin. But he, too, has a secret, and Kestrel quickly learns that the price she paid for a fellow human is much higher than she ever could have imagined. </span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818;">Set in a richly imagined new world, </span><em style="background-color: white;">The Winner’s Curse</em><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818;"> by Marie Rutkoski is a story of deadly games where everything is at stake, and the gamble is whether you will keep your head or lose your heart.</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There are no words to describe how <i>fantastic </i>that <i>The Winner's Curse</i> truly is. From its incredible world-building to the heartbreaking way that Rutkoski crafts together Kestrel and Arin's story in a world full of betrayal and the true price of coming out on top, <i>The Winner's Curse </i>is sure to revolutionize the YA genre. I adored this book. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">If you want to know how much I love <i>The Winner's Curse</i>, it was in the top two of my favorite reads of last year - I loved it that much. And with all the hype surrounding it, it most definitely lives up to all of its praise. The writing style is <i>superb</i>. I'm a huge fan of world-building, and Rutkoski does a phenomenal job of sweeping the reader into this beautiful, dark empire where nothing is as it seems and one act of rebellion can ignite a war. Rutkoski grabbed me from page one and never let me go - this book consumed everything of me while I was reading it and long after I turned the final page. If you're a huge fan of fantasy like I am, to say that <i>The Winner's Curse </i>is a must-read is an absolute understatement. I can't even with this amazingness that is <i>The Winner's Curse</i>.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">"The piano, on the other hand, was a network of parts - a ship, with its strings like rigging, its a case a hull, its lifted lid a sail." -</span><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Winner's Curse</span> </i><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">(This writing style is fantastic. Absolutely stunning.)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I connected to the characters in more of a way than I have with characters in a very long time. Kestrel is a heroine worth rooting for. She's determined and headstrong, and I loved how independent and courageous she was. Even if it meant betraying those she loved, Kestrel would do anything for her country and her heart, and I couldn't ask for her to be anymore amazing. I'm excited to see how her character will develop in the sequel! Arin, on the other hand, was so mysterious and dark - it was interesting to get an insight into his world! (His twisted world, that is) I love it when you just <i>know </i>that a character is up to no good, but you have that spark within you that they could be doing something for the better; Arin was that type of character. Though he and Kestrel never seemed to agree, they balanced each other out so perfectly, and I loved seeing them together throughout the story. Their bonds were definitely tested many times throughout <i>The Winner's Curse</i>, and Marie Rutkoski did an incredible job with these characters. Oh my gosh, THIS BOOK. There are seriously no words. Please, do yourself a favor and pick up this gem. It's a masterpiece. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><i>The Winner's Curse </i>is impossible to put down. Enthralling and captivating, this novel broke my heart and had me fully engrossed in the story at all times. And with fantastic characters and one of the best world-buildings I've ever come across, it does just the trick. I can't stress enough how powerful and emotional <i>The Winner's Curse </i>is. From the times of secrets and betrayals lingering all around Kestrel's world to the times of silence when its just Kestrel with the only thing she can ever truly love, <i>The Winner's Curse </i>is sure to have you on the edge of your seat until the explosive, fantastic finale.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Overall, <i>The Winner's Curse </i>is hands down one of my favorite books of all time. Incredibly thought-out and smart in the ways that it portrays society and the true cost of winning, <i>The Winner's Curse </i>is spectacular.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><b>M Y R A T I N G</b></span></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-30838009308489786112014-02-19T20:00:00.000-06:002015-06-09T23:23:36.261-05:00Brad About Books: Tsarina by J. Nelle Patrick<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17382389-tsarina?from_search=true">TSARINA</a></b><br />
Expected Publication Date: February 27, 2014<br />
Publisher: Razorbill (Penguin)<br />
Format: ARC<br />
Page Count: 331 pages<br />
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Natalya knows a secret.</span></b></span><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">A magical Faberge egg glows within the walls of Russia's Winter Palace.</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">It holds a power rooted in the land and stolen from the mystics.</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">A power that promises a life of love for her and Alexei Romanov.</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Power, that, in the right hands, can save her way of life.</span></span></b><br />
<b><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">But it's not in the right hands.</span></span></b><br />
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<i>Tsarina </i>is a fast-paced, marvelously crafted story of the true competition for power and the bonds of love severing eternally. I <i>adored </i>this book. </div>
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Jackson Pearce (writing as J. Nelle Patrick) is one of my all-time favorite authors, and I was <i>very </i>excited to see how she would take on a historical magic novel! And, just as I expected, she did not disappoint. <i>Tsarina </i>is unlike anything I have <i>ever </i>read. Combing Russian fantasy with a world of possibilities inside Natalya's hands, <i>Tsarina </i>is the kind of book that kept me up late into the night, turning pages as fast as I could. I was swept away by Natalya's world and her dilemmas, and believe me, these dilemmas are <i>insane</i>. There is never a dull moment in this novel. From betrayal and backstabbing to torn-apart hearts in a country full of war and desire, <i>Tsarina </i>is ultimately a shining gem that shouldn't be missed!</div>
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I've always liked the phrase "a world of possibilities in your hands", but I never thought into what it could truly mean and the price it can cost you - I just <i>loved </i>how <i>Tsarina </i>actually took this idea, spun it around, and created such a beautiful, deceptive world that Natalya must keep a firm grip on. World-building is everything to me in a novel, and <i>Tsarina </i>has a one of a kind, dark, and awesome world. While being heartbreaking and epic all at the same time, <i>Tsarina </i>is also <i>so </i>unique. I can't get over how awesome this book was. Power and control clash together, and Patrick does a remarkable job with combing both love and deception. </div>
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The best part about <i>Tsarina</i>? It's never predictable. If I even guessed for a second the direction it would take, it would completely flip my world upside down. Fast-paced, energetic, and highly addictive, <i>Tsarina </i>is a masterful, remarkable story that is both equally powerful and fantastic. <i>Tsarina </i>is sure to be a big hit! A new favorite of mine, for sure!</div>
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Overall, <i>Tsarina </i>is such a fast-paced ride, it's impossible to put down! Phenomenal in every sense of the word - <i>Tsarina </i>is one of the best fantasies I've ever read!</div>
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<b>M Y R A T I N G</b><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-61520776944968465772014-01-29T06:00:00.000-06:002015-06-09T23:26:57.675-05:00Brad About Books: Cress by Marissa Meyer<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://vignette2.wikia.nocookie.net/lunarchronicles/images/d/d7/Cress_Cover.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20140618193519" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://vignette2.wikia.nocookie.net/lunarchronicles/images/d/d7/Cress_Cover.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20140618193519" height="400" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read from June 30 to July 1, 2013</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13206828-cress?from_search=true">CRESS</a></b><br />
Expected Publication Date: February 4, 2014<br />
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends (Macmillan)<br />
Format: ARC<br />
Page Count: 560 pages<br />
Source: ALA<br />
Series: <i>The Lunar Chronicles</i>, #3<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This review is entirely spoiler free, even if you haven't started this series (which, if you haven't, what are you doing? GET ON THAT.)</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Read my reviews for previous novels in this series:</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://bookyareview.blogspot.com/2012/02/book-review-cinder-by-marissa-meyer.html">Cinder</a> • <a href="http://bookyareview.blogspot.com/2013/02/brad-about-books-scarlet-by-marissa.html">Scarlet (possible spoilers for Cinder)</a></span></b></div>
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First off, let me say that the Lunar Chronicles is one of my favorite series <i>ever</i>. Guys, I'm talking near the top of the list. It's insanely fantastic. And <i>Cress</i>? It did not disappoint by <i>any </i>means. Everything I could have wanted from <i>Cress </i>was delivered on a shining platter - I can't rave about this book enough. <i>Cress </i>not only proves that Meyer's is a marvelous storyteller, it also shows how daring and far she took this story to make it her own. <i>Cress </i>is phenomenal in every sense of the word.</div>
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I have loved this series since day one, and I was <i>so </i>excited to dive into <i>Cress</i>. Cinder and Scarlet and the rest of the gang are back in this third installment, but of course, we are introduced to our new heroine, Cress. Cress is unlike any kind of protagonist I've ever read about. She's smart, clever, and cunning, yet she is hollow inside. It was so awesome to see the compare and contrast of those elements within Cress, and I absolutely <i>adored </i>her character. In fact, I think she's my favorite out of the three (soon to be four) thus far. I also loved how characters who were somewhat important in <i>Cinder </i>and <i>Scarlet </i>became <b>VERY </b>important in <i>Cress</i>. Each character has a vital role in the series, and Meyer definitely uses all of her characters and puts them to the test. All the characters evolve in one way or another in <i>Cress</i>, and I absolutely fell in love with this book. This is easily one of my favorite books <i>ever</i>. </div>
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Speaking of putting characters to the test, <u style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">wow</u>. Marissa Meyer definitely wasn't afraid to have a little fun with her characters! The stakes are raised <i>so </i>high in <i>Cress</i>, and the characters are pushed past their limits - to see some characters either make it or break it was thrilling, and I couldn't put this beast of a book down. The Lunar Chronicles contains my favorite villain ever: Queen Levana. You don't even understand how much I love Queen Levana. She's so wickedly cruel, and <i>Cress </i>shined new light on her... I hate to love her, but I love to hate her! And thank goodness Cress wasn't a damsel in distress like how, in my opinion, the original Rapunzel is. She could do things for herself and speak her mind, and I loved that she wasn't your typical heroine. In fact, she's anything <i>but </i>typical. These characters are truly stunning. Honestly, I just loved everything about this third book. This series keeps getting better and better!</div>
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It is completely impossible to put this novel down. Though it looks like a monster, Meyer sweeps the reader up and entangles them in the world of Cinder, Scarlet, and Cress, and to see the three heroines all join forces was exceptional. Right from page one, I was sucked into the book, and I couldn't put it down. From its fast-paced climatic moments to its revealing-secrets-cliffhangers that kill me inside, <i>Cress </i>has it all. Absorbing and enthralling, <i>Cress </i>is sure to knock you off your feet. One word: amazing. Another word: <i>phenomenal</i>.</div>
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Overall, <i>Cress </i>has still left its mark on me. A one of a kind gem full of action, mystery, and the perfect amount of romance and sci-fi mixed in with it. That ending <i>killed </i>me. I can't wait to see how it all concludes!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-46014882479643723802014-01-28T06:00:00.000-06:002015-06-09T23:27:45.940-05:00Brad About Books: Grasshopper Jungle by Andrew Smith<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCGudy7gi025SaMW4eq4hMYEuW0rtTpkdbWHOepFuplGyik9PI03qg8Eh1FoKx0AoMUEXwIwZ2jz9gMrjg6AlArnGifZdva9FwFVg86kbLDAWcgiM0ANb3F6kRTTjeqoToLZV91IHsB_3s/s1600/Grasshopper+Jungle+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCGudy7gi025SaMW4eq4hMYEuW0rtTpkdbWHOepFuplGyik9PI03qg8Eh1FoKx0AoMUEXwIwZ2jz9gMrjg6AlArnGifZdva9FwFVg86kbLDAWcgiM0ANb3F6kRTTjeqoToLZV91IHsB_3s/s1600/Grasshopper+Jungle+Cover.jpg" height="400" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read from October 19 to 21, 2013</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18079719-grasshopper-jungle?from_search=true">GRASSHOPPER JUNGLE</a></b><br />
Expected Publication Date: February 11, 2014<br />
Publisher: Dutton Juvenile (Penguin)<br />
Format: ARC<br />
Page Count: 388 pages<br />
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">Sixteen-year-old Austin Szerba interweaves the story of his Polish legacy with the story of how he and his best friend , Robby, brought about the end of humanity and the rise of an army of unstoppable, six-foot tall praying mantises in small-town Iowa.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">To make matters worse, Austin's hormones are totally oblivious; they don't care that the world is in utter chaos: Austin is in love with his girlfriend, Shann, but remains confused about his sexual orientation. He's stewing in a self-professed constant state of maximum horniness, directed at both Robby and Shann. Ultimately, it's up to Austin to save the world and propagate the species in this sci-fright journey of survival and the complex realities of the human condition.</span></span></b><br />
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<i>Grasshopper Jungle</i> is truly a one of a kind gem that shouldn't be missed. With marvelous characters and superb, masterful writing, <i>Grasshopper Jungle </i>is easily one of the most thought-provoking and incredible novels I have ever read. </div>
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You will <i>never </i>find a book like <i>Grasshopper Jungle</i>, in both the sense of the plot and of the brilliant way it was crafted together by Smith. As Austin and Robby unleash the end of the world in their small Iowa town, they both discover themselves along the way while trying to save humanity. What I really loved about <i>Grasshopper Jungle </i>was how it never always focused on the danger at hand - there are many scenes where the characters are just sitting around, discussing life and the things pertaining to them at the time, and it fit the characters <i>perfectly</i>. They're misfits and they don't always have the right answers. How Smith weaved together Austin, Shann, and Robby's character and developed them even further blew me away. <i>Grasshopper Jungle </i>is an absolute must-read!</div>
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Andrew Smith has a <i>fantastic </i>writing style. He was able to manage to weave two stories - the story of the end of the world and the story of Austin's family legacy - and intertwine them together to make them one bigger, epic story, without shadowing or taking away from one or the other. <i>Grasshopper Jungle </i>will forever change the way you view the misfits that surround you; whether it's for the better or for the worse, they're always changing in ways never noticeable unless you become entwined with their world. Smith has created a genius, mind-bending story that packs an epic punch and leaves its mark. </div>
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From Austin trying to discover his place in the world to the best friend relationship the characters share, <i>Grasshopper Jungle </i>shares a true perspective of what it means to be lost in a world full of possibilities. It's smart, it's dynamic, it's enthralling, it's <i>phenomenal</i>. <i>Grasshopper Jungle </i>will not only consume your mind - it will be the only thing you think about, long after the final page has been turned. <i>Grasshopper Jungle</i> is truly remarkable.</div>
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Overall, <i>Grasshopper Jungle </i>is a dazzling, heart-pounding read that has left a mark on me and captivated me from start to finish. Spectacular!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-10590699619189451562014-01-24T22:41:00.002-06:002015-06-09T23:28:47.988-05:00Brad About Books: Landry Park by Bethany Hagen<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.snugglyoranges.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/landry-park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.snugglyoranges.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/landry-park.jpg" height="400" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read from October 27 to 29, 2013</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17350916-landry-park">LANDRY PARK</a></b><br />
Expected Publication Date: February 4, 2014<br />
Publisher: Dial (Penguin)<br />
Format: ARC<br />
Page Count: 374 pages<br />
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review<br />
Series: <i>Landry Park</i>, #1<br />
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<b><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Downton Abbey</em> meets <em>The Selection</em> in this dystopian tale of love and betrayal.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In a fragmented future United States ruled by the lavish gentry, seventeen-year-old Madeline Landry dreams of going to the university. Unfortunately, gentry decorum and her domineering father won't allow that. Madeline must marry, like a good Landry woman, and run the family estate. But her world is turned upside down when she discovers the devastating consequences her lifestyle is having on those less fortunate. As Madeline begins to question everything she has ever learned, she finds herself increasingly drawn to handsome, beguiling David Dana. Soon, rumors of war and rebellion start to spread, and Madeline finds herself and David at the center of it all. Ultimately, she must make a choice between duty - her family and the estate she loves dearly - and desire.</span></b></div>
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<i>Landry Park</i> is a beautiful, enchanting read that drew me in right from the beginning, and with the way that Hagen crafted the world of <i>Landry Park </i>of stunning characters and exceptional writing, it was impossible to put it down. <i>Landry Park </i>is truly one of a kind.</div>
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Are you getting sick and tired of the dystopian genre? <i>Landry Park </i>is sure to change your mind about that. Instead of building a future that's unlike anything in our present day world, Hagen draws from the past and how a torn United States quickly becomes like that in the old age. It was so unique to see this play on dystopian, and it's one of the many reasons why <i>Landry Park </i>stands out to me. From the elegance of the land and the proper manners to the scandal and betrayal happening behind the scenes, <i>Landry Park </i>makes its mark ever so gracefully and standout-worthy. Even though I read this book months ago, it's still on my mind. <i>Landry Park </i>is wickedly marvelous!</div>
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Madeline is <i>such </i>a strong, fantastic protagonist. She doesn't want to follow the rules set by her land, and she won't let her freedom be taken from her. With war brewing in the land, Madeline has a whirlwind of adventure on her hands, and the way that Hagen executes this adventure was incredible. There is never a dull moment in <i>Landry Park</i>. It's so vivacious, dark, and contagious - it's truly impossible to stop reading <i>Landry Park</i>. The world-building will have you caught up in Madeline and Landry Park, the writing will carry you away with the love and war stirring in the land, and the characters will make you head over heels fall in love with everything about this gem. I cannot stress enough how much I <i>adored </i>this book. I need the sequel so bad!</div>
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Can we just talk about the fact that Bethany Hagen is a <i>master </i>of suspense? Honestly, I had no idea what to expect while reading <i>Landry Park</i>. There are so many masterful and unique elements thrown into the novel that I totally didn't see coming, and they weren't the kind of plot twists thrown in for the sake of shocking the reader - they moved the story along and benefited it greatly. <i>Landry Park </i>will shake you, captivate you, and leave you wanting more long after the final page has been turned.</div>
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Overall, I loved <i>Landry Park </i>so much. With phenomenal world-building and one of a kind characters (plus an ending I <i>never </i>saw coming, and once I read it, my jaw literally fell open), <i>Landry Park </i>will blow you away.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-54367079954453138592014-01-12T21:19:00.001-06:002015-06-09T23:30:08.279-05:00Brad About Books: Something Real by Heather Demetrios <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read on January 24, 2014</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18005274-something-real">SOMETHING REAL</a></b><br />
Expected Publication Date: February 4, 2014<br />
Publisher: Henry Holt and Co. (Macmillan)<br />
Format: ARC<br />
Page Count: 403 pages<br />
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">Winner of the 2012 PEN New England Discovery Award!</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">There’s nothing real about reality TV.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818;">Seventeen-year-old Bonnie™ Baker has grown up on TV—she and her twelve siblings are the stars of one-time hit reality show Baker’s Dozen. Since the show’s cancellation and the scandal surrounding it, Bonnie™ has tried to live a normal life, under the radar and out of the spotlight. But it’s about to fall apart…because Baker’s Dozen is going back on the air. Bonnie™’s mom and the show’s producers won’t let her quit and soon the life she has so carefully built for herself, with real friends (and maybe even a real boyfriend), is in danger of being destroyed by the show. Bonnie™ needs to do something drastic if her life is ever going to be her own—even if it means being more exposed than ever before.</span></span></b></div>
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<i>Something Real </i>is a captivating, tantalizing read that had me hooked from the beginning and never let me go. Everything about this book is raw, unique, and <i>real</i>.</div>
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I'm going to start off this review with a bang with what I loved most: the brother-sister relationship between Bonnie and Benny. They fight and argue, but they also get along and complement each other so well. Bonnie and Benny are definitely some of my favorite siblings I've ever read about. Actually, <i>all </i>of the characters in <i>Something Real </i>are incredible! There's so many brothers and sisters to keep track of, but Demetrios does an exceptional job at making their character relevant to the family and Bonnie. Characters are a very important part of a book for me, and the characters in <i>Something Real </i>are stunning. </div>
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<i>Something Real </i>provides such a fresh, interesting story - it was so hard to put down! Reality shows are somewhat of a guilty pleasure for me, but reading it through the eyes of someone who doesn't want to be apart of exposing their life for the world to see was marvelous. How the story was set up - exposing Bonnie's secret public identity to filming the show - was truly one of a kind, and <i>Something Real </i>is really something special. I think that <i>Something Real </i>is perfect for fans who don't usually read contemporaries. <i>Something Real </i>has it all: wonderful characters, phenomenal writing, and a story that will enthrall you and engross you. </div>
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<i>Something Real </i>will definitely pull at your heartstrings. The emotions and the struggles that Bonnie faces (both in the eye of the public and her inner self) make you root for her and cheer her one, but it connects you to her in a way that I've never seen done before. I connected to Bonnie instantly, and she has remained to be a favorite heroine of mine. <i>Something Real </i>is truly a must-read!</div>
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Overall, <i>Something Real </i>is a beautiful, radiant read that is equally both wonderful and pulsing with great characters. Loved it!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-49744160004448120142014-01-03T06:00:00.000-06:002015-06-09T23:31:19.065-05:00Brad About Books: The Rule of Three by Eric Walters<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read from November 24 to 26, 2013</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17934467-the-rule-of-three">THE RULE OF THREE</a></b><br />
Expected Publication Date: January 21, 2014<br />
Publisher: FSG (Macmillan)<br />
Format: ARC<br />
Page Count: 405 pages<br />
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">One shocking afternoon, computers around the globe shut down in a viral catastrophe. At sixteen-year-old Adam Daley’s high school, the problem first seems to be a typical electrical outage, until students discover that cell phones are down, municipal utilities are failing, and a few computer-free cars like Adam’s are the only vehicles that function. Driving home, Adam encounters a storm tide of anger and fear as the region becomes paralyzed. Soon—as resources dwindle, crises mount, and chaos descends—he will see his suburban neighborhood band together for protection. And Adam will understand that having a police captain for a mother and a retired government spy living next door are not just the facts of his life but the keys to his survival, in </span><em style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">The Rule of Three </em><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">by Eric Walters.</span></span></b></div>
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<i>The Rule of Three </i>is unlike any other disaster story you will ever read! Unlike many in its genre, <i>The Rule of Three </i>bends the circumstances and focuses more on the regrowth of the world (with the rebels and trouble here and there) than putting its point of view more on the downfall of the world. I <i>loved </i>how unique this book was.</div>
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I've read many disaster stories but none quite like this one. <i>The Rule of Three </i>starts off casually, but Eric Walters doesn't leave the reader in the slow build up for long. Within at least fifteen pages of <i>The Rule of Three</i>, action is flying off the page, and it's impossible not to be absorbed into this world. Darkness is ruling over everything, and Adam is having to fight and struggle to live in this world. Our world is now entirely built on technology (and I admit that I am very addicted and hooked on technology), but it was such a cool spin to see the downfall of technology and how our generation has to rebuild the world by using methods that our generation doesn't practice that much anymore (planting crops, creating a fort for survival, etc.), and it really makes for a great, engaging story. <i>The Rule of Three </i>is unlike anything you will ever read!</div>
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Catastrophe lurks everywhere in <i>The Rule of Three</i>, and Walters did a stunning job with it. Most disaster stories have a climatic, foreshadowing feeling to them, but I have to say, I didn't feel that with the writing of <i>The Rule of Three</i> - and I really appreciated that it was different! I couldn't ever predict what was going to happen next, because if I would predict, Walters would throw something huge and unexpected into the story. Traveling with Adam and his mom through this perilous strike was so interesting and enthralling, and I loved how <i>The Rule of Three </i>was able to create a story that is both equally epic and dark. </div>
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Adam is such a cool protagonist. What I liked most about his character was how he didn't always have the answers. He had to rely on others to manage during this shutdown, and to rebuild something, I believe that's what you to do. The relationship between all the characters felt authentic, and they proved to be a strong team together. If I had only one complaint about <i>The Rule of Three</i>, it would have to be the somewhat lacking middle. I felt that not a lot pushed the story along in the middle except for the characters, but by the end, the action was intense.</div>
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Overall, <i>The Rule of Three </i>is a marvelous, original story that will shock you, stun you, and hold you in its clutches until the awesome, mind-blowing finale. Irresistible!</div>
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<b>M Y R A T I N G</b><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-11163943639399094412013-12-28T06:00:00.000-06:002015-06-09T23:32:29.791-05:00Brad About Books: Fragile Spirits by Mary Lindsey<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUiYVQJVvA5t6D29Bys-iKqyvEjkTk1KLRkMzMPVNccxzfUp2W0xfTpXOCRgMXw_e5aXUDN4ll1CFQxrRDYLkcbzTYntr6M6kfZsRV60i-JR-Q1RrydSe2htY2TC68CB8zC0oEglQuByI/s1600/Fragile+Spirits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUiYVQJVvA5t6D29Bys-iKqyvEjkTk1KLRkMzMPVNccxzfUp2W0xfTpXOCRgMXw_e5aXUDN4ll1CFQxrRDYLkcbzTYntr6M6kfZsRV60i-JR-Q1RrydSe2htY2TC68CB8zC0oEglQuByI/s1600/Fragile+Spirits.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read from December 2 to 3, 2013</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13507921-fragile-spirits?from_search=true">FRAGILE SPIRITS</a></b><br />
Expected Publication Date: January 23, 2014<br />
Publisher: Philomel (Penguin)<br />
Format: ARC<br />
Page Count: 311 pages<br />
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review<br />
Series: <i>Souls</i>, #2<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This review is entirely spoiler free, even if you haven't read book one, <i><a href="http://bookyareview.blogspot.com/2013/12/brad-about-books-shattered-souls-by.html">Shattered Souls</a></i>.</span></b></div>
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<i>Fragile Spirits </i>is an electrifying, superb sequel that is sure to capture readers with the high stakes and epically great romance scenes Lindsey has crafted. Even better than the first book!</div>
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I thought that <i>Shattered Souls </i>was a great paranormal read, but <i>Fragile Spirits </i>was truly special. I loved getting to see Paul's side of the story, and his story was so enthralling and captivating. He's had to deal with so much change, but Lindsey does a spectacular job at crafting his character together to make him one of the most coolest male protagonists I've ever read about. And when he's matched with Vivienne, a rebel who doesn't care and never does anything she's told to do, their pair is odd and awkward, but as <i>Fragile Spirits </i>progresses, they grow to become an unbreakable bond and a force to be reckoned with. Such a marvelous sequel!</div>
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So many secrets! So much betrayal! Kidnapping and a vicious spirit on the loose makes for a brilliant story, and it's impossible to put this book down! It's fast-paced and action-packed - <i>Fragile Spirits </i>had me in its grip from start to finish. If I wasn't reading it, it was the only thing on my mind. <i>Shattered Souls </i>was great, but <i>Fragile Spirits </i>was phenomenal. Everything from the powerful bond that Paul and Vivienne share to the sinister spirits that lurk in the darkness, <i>Fragile Spirits </i>is a powerful sequel that shines bright.</div>
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I loved how Mary Lindsey crafted together the spirits and otherworldly creatures! I thought that they were eerie in <i>Shattered Souls</i>, but the spirits in this novel are the definition of creepy. They're wicked, they mess with your mind, and they haunted me late into the night as I was turning these pages as fast I could. I <i>adored </i>this sequel so much. Truly, truly one of a kind!</div>
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Overall, <i>Fragile Spirits </i>is a sequel that not only delivers, it exceeded all of my expectations. Mary Lindsey has nailed it again!</div>
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<b>M Y R A T I N G</b><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-67695358279899433202013-12-27T15:17:00.001-06:002015-06-09T23:33:27.760-05:00Brad About Books: Warrior by Ellen Oh<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ellenoh.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/warrior_front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://ellenoh.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/warrior_front.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read on September 29, 2013</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13628529-warrior">WARRIOR</a></b><br />
Expected Publication Date: December 31, 2013<br />
Publisher: Harper Teen<br />
Format: ARC<br />
Page Count: 327 pages<br />
Source: Received for review in exchange for an honest review<br />
Series: <i>Dragon King Chronicles</i>, #2<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This review is entirely spoiler free, even if you haven't read book one, <i><a href="http://bookyareview.blogspot.com/2013/12/brad-about-books-prophecy-by-ellen-oh.html">Prophecy</a></i>.</span></b></div>
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<i>Warrior </i>is, simply put, incredible! With so much more action and tension between the characters, it's impossible not to love this book. Ellen Oh has done it once again! </div>
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I loved <i>Prophecy</i>, but wow, <i>Warrior </i>blew it out of the water! With Kira's circumstances shifted due to the end of <i>Prophecy</i>, her life has changed, but with this changed life comes more responsibilities and more betrayal. Chaos rules over Hansong, and Kira has to mature even more in this sequel. I didn't even think it was possible for Kira to become more kick-butt and awesome than she was before, but Oh definitely pushed Kira to her boundaries, and I really appreciated that! You know the dreaded Sequel Syndrome (when a sequel doesn't live up to expectations made because the first book was so epic)? It passed completely over this series' head. <i>Warrior </i>is easily one of my favorite sequels of all time!</div>
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Ellen Oh is a master of action scenes. Seriously, every page will have you in its clutches until the very end - I didn't ever want to put this book down. Right from page one, action flies off the page, and believe me when I say that <i>the action never stopped </i>(and we can't stop, and we won't stop). Treason lurks everywhere Kira looks, and she's got a team of people standing by her side, willing to face whatever comes with her. I love a story with a great protagonist, but a <i>great </i>story includes incredible side characters as well - the Dragon King Chronicles has the best of both worlds with its characters. Each character is important and plays a vital role to the story. I am truly astonished by this series! Fantasy lovers, this series is a <i style="font-weight: bold;">must</i> read. Packed with the right amount of action and a heroine that will blow you away, <i>Warrior </i>has it all. Incredible in every sense of the word!</div>
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I was <i>so </i>nervous to see how this book would end. The stakes are kicked up to a notch I couldn't even fathom, but it makes for one epic story. From start to finish, <i>Warrior </i>will consume your mind - even long after you've turned the final page. That ending was <i>brilliant</i>. I didn't see that coming, but once I got to the end, my mouth had seriously fallen open. I adored everything about <i>Warrior</i>. I need the third book like crazy! SO excited to see how it all concludes!</div>
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Overall, <i>Warrior </i>shouldn't be missed. <i>Warrior </i>is a sequel that will be the only thing on your mind. Mesmerizing!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-2103585425460971442013-12-24T13:45:00.006-06:002015-06-09T23:34:19.000-05:00Brad About Books: Prophecy by Ellen Oh<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.readbreatherelax.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/prophecy-ellen-oh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.readbreatherelax.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/prophecy-ellen-oh.jpg" height="400" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read on June 12, 2013</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10129062-prophecy?from_search=true">PROPHECY</a></b><br />
Published: January 2, 2013<br />
Publisher: Harper Teen<br />
Format: Hardcover<br />
Page Count: 312 pages<br />
Source: Purchased<br />
Series: <i>Dragon King Chronicles</i>, #1<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">The greatest warrior in all of the Seven Kingdoms... is a girl with yellow eyes.</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">Kira’s the only female in the king’s army, and the prince’s bodyguard. She’s a demon slayer and an outcast, hated by nearly everyone in her home city of Hansong. And, she’s their only hope...</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818;">Murdered kings and discovered traitors point to a demon invasion, sending Kira on the run with the young prince. He may be the savior predicted in the Dragon King Prophecy, but the missing treasure of myth may be the true key. With only the guidance of the cryptic prophecy, Kira must battle demon soldiers, evil shaman, and the Demon Lord himself to find what was once lost and raise a prince into a king.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818;">Intrigue and mystery, ancient lore and action-packed fantasy come together in this heart-stopping first book in a trilogy.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">One girl will save us all.</span></b></div>
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<i>Prophecy </i>is an action-packed, epic tale that delivers with an awesome protagonist and an unforgettable story. Everything about Oh's debut blew me away - right from page one, I was entangled with Kira's world, and I loved every second of it! One of my new favorite fantasies!</div>
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I love fantasies so much, and <i>Prophecy </i>did not disappoint by any means. <i>Prophecy </i>brings a fresh and unique take on YA fantasy that will have you on the edge of your seat the entire time. I was so enthralled by this world, I couldn't ever put this book down. With action that flies off the page and a heroine worth rooting for, <i>Prophecy </i>is one killer story. Every chapter brings something new that will have the reader further invested into the plot than before, and the suspense that the novel gives will leave your jaw hanging open. <i>Everything </i>about <i>Prophecy </i>is incredible - I highly recommend it! It's incredible!</div>
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Kira... oh gosh, how I loved Kira! She's an outcast, though she saves those that hate her most. I connected to her right away - not just in sympathy (though I did connect to her in that way as well), but just in her character as a whole. She's determined, fearless, but she definitely has her flaws, and I really appreciated that compare and contrast between her character development. She has a rough journey to go on in <i>Prophecy</i>, and the reader experiences it with her through thick and thin. Oh did a terrific job at bringing this vivid, cruel world to life to travel with Kira through. In short, Kira was just such an awesome heroine to go on this fantastic quest with. Katniss Everdeen better watch behind her back - Kira is an epic protagonist!</div>
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The world-building of Hansong was one of a kind. It's so complex and rich, it's irresistible. World-building is a major part of any novel for me, and I adored Hansong. There's so many dark depths and astonishing levels to it - Hansong is one of the best crafted worlds I've ever read about. Not only does <i>Prophecy </i>have a phenomenal protagonist and marvelous world-building, it has a certain light to it filled with action, hope, and epic proportions of betrayal and romance. Amazing!</div>
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Overall, <i>Prophecy </i>has quickly become a favorite read of mine. From its dark villains to its brilliant quests to venture on, you won't be able to put <i>Prophecy </i>down!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-61838774624387722862013-12-14T13:14:00.001-06:002015-06-09T23:35:39.833-05:00Brad About Books: Shattered Souls by Mary Lindsey<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://glittermagrocks.com/connect/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/9780142421901_large_Shattered_Souls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://glittermagrocks.com/connect/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/9780142421901_large_Shattered_Souls.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read from November 20 to 22, 2013</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9366996-shattered-souls">SHATTERED SOULS</a></b><br />
Published: December 8, 2011<br />
Publisher: Philomel (Penguin)<br />
Format: Hardcover<br />
Page Count: 326 pages<br />
Source: Purchased<br />
Series: <i>Souls</i>, #1<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Love.</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Death.</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Destiny.</span></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">Danger.</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">Lenzi hears voices and has visions - gravestones, floods, a boy with steel gray eyes. Her boyfriend, Zak, can't help, and everything keeps getting louder and more intense. Then Lenzi meets Alden, the boy from her dreams, who reveals that she's a reincarnated Speaker - someone who can talk to and help lost souls - and that he has been her Protector for centuries.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818;">Now Lenzi must choose between her life with Zak and the life she is destined to lead with Alden. But time is running out: a malevolent spirit is out to destroy Lenzi, and he will kill her if she doesn't make a decision soon.</span></span></b></div>
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<i>Shattered Souls </i>is a sensational, irresistible novel filled with a sweeping romance and a writing style unlike any other. <i>Shattered Souls </i>is intoxicating!</div>
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I read Mary Lindsey's <i><a href="http://bookyareview.blogspot.com/2013/06/brad-about-books-ashes-on-waves-by-mary.html"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Ashes on the Waves</span></a> </i>earlier this year, and I was very eager to read another novel from her - and just as I was expecting, I was blown away! Lenzi was such a great character. When she discovers who she truly is, she's fearless and ready to take on whatever comes at her. I loved having a strong protagonist to accompany this epic story, and believe me when I say that <i>Shattered Souls </i>is a <i>very </i>epic story. Each page will have you on the edge of your seat, and the secrets and betrayals that <i>Shattered Souls </i>reveals are beyond amazing. If you're craving that paranormal read that will completely consume you, <i>Shattered Souls </i>is that book.</div>
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So. Much. Action. With a spirit out to kill Lenzi, the boy she's been dating for awhile and the boy who has been chosen to protect her out for her heart, and the voices in her head that can't be silenced, it's impossible to put down this book. Lindsey is a master at suspense and thrilling scenes, and <i>Shattered Souls </i>is proof of that. I was so captivated by this novel, I never wanted to put it down. Everything about <i>Shattered Souls </i>is one of a kind, and I honestly can't recommend it enough. </div>
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The ending! The last 75 pages of <i>Shattered Souls </i>are so fast-paced and climatic; when I got to the very end of the novel, my mouth had seriously fallen open, but I couldn't contain myself from turning the pages as fast as I could. I fell in love with <i>Shattered Souls</i>, and it has easily become one of my favorite paranormal reads.</div>
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Overall, <i>Shattered Souls </i>is a dazzling read that will enthrall you from start to finish. Marvelous!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-75668927817240470442013-12-10T19:43:00.000-06:002015-06-09T23:36:35.945-05:00Brad About Books: These Broken Stars by Amie Kaufman and Meagan Spooner<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5195a492e4b0b0879dc4155e/51e6df56e4b071c85f0bd3d9/552ab008e4b03cff36ab2993/1433120104454/?format=1000w" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5195a492e4b0b0879dc4155e/51e6df56e4b071c85f0bd3d9/552ab008e4b03cff36ab2993/1433120104454/?format=1000w" width="272" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read on July 9, 2013</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13138635-these-broken-stars?from_search=true">THESE BROKEN STARS</a></b><br />
Published: December 10, 2013<br />
Publisher: Disney Hyperion<br />
Format: ARC<br />
Page Count: 374 pages<br />
Source: ALA<br />
Series: <i>Starbound</i>, #1<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">It's a night like any other on board the Icarus. Then, catastrophe strikes: the massive luxury spaceliner is yanked out of hyperspace and plummets into the nearest planet. Lilac LaRoux and Tarver Merendsen survive. And they seem to be alone. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">Lilac is the daughter of the richest man in the universe. Tarver comes from nothing, a young war hero who learned long ago that girls like Lilac are more trouble than they’re worth. But with only each other to rely on, Lilac and Tarver must work together, making a tortuous journey across the eerie, deserted terrain to seek help. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">Then, against all odds, Lilac and Tarver find a strange blessing in the tragedy that has thrown them into each other’s arms. Without the hope of a future together in their own world, they begin to wonder—would they be better off staying here forever?</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">Everything changes when they uncover the truth behind the chilling whispers that haunt their every step. Lilac and Tarver may find a way off this planet. But they won’t be the same people who landed on it.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">--</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">A timeless love story, THESE BROKEN STARS sets into motion a sweeping science fiction series of companion novels. The Starbound Trilogy: Three worlds. Three love stories. One enemy.</span></span></b><br />
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<i>These Broken Stars </i>is a dazzling, timeless love story with the right amount of romance and sci-fi. Kaufman and Spooner <i>nailed </i>it with this one - I absolutely <i>adored</i> this novel! A new favorite of mine!</div>
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I am a huge fan of sci-fi novels, and <i>These Broken Stars </i>was <u>amazing</u>. The idea of setting it on a lavish spaceship, then everything being torn to bits, leaving two starcrossed lovers to defend from themselves on unknown territory blew me away - I devoured <i>These Broken Stars </i>so quickly. The writing, the characters, the world-building, they all intertwined so well to create a one of a kind story that is both equally unique and epic. This book is a must-read!<br />
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Lilac and Tarver make such an outstanding couple. They both each have their flaws - there are some moments in <i>These Broken Stars </i>when their true sides are shown, and I really appreciated that we got to see these characters for who they really are - but when they join forces, they are unbreakable. And I <i>adored </i>how <i>These Broken Stars </i>didn't have instalove. Lilac and Tarver never knew each other until they were stranded together, and they learn about each other in a slow-building, emotion-packing way that shows Kaufman and Spooner's talent at character development. If you're needing a book that will have you completely enthralled, <i>These Broken Stars </i>is for you. I can't express how awesome this book was!<br />
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The way this book was structured was incredible. We have many overlapping stories going on at the same time, but when the ending of the book rolls around, they all intertwine and connect to each other so well. My mind was blown at the way all the loose ends were tied up. I couldn't ask for any more from <i>These Broken Stars</i>. With epic characters, a wonderful writing style, and a masterfully structured plot that was executed fantastically, <i>These Broken Stars </i>was beyond phenomenal.<br />
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Overall, <i>These Broken Stars </i>is one of a kind. I lost myself completely to this book - luckily, I never wanted it to end. So amazing!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3893009601290175114.post-6879147197355285262013-12-05T21:30:00.001-06:002015-06-09T23:37:37.788-05:00Brad About Books: Vitro by Jessica Khoury<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Read on November 30, 2013</td></tr>
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<b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17617762-vitro">VITRO</a></b><br />
Expected Publication Date: January 14, 2014<br />
Publisher: Razorbill (Penguin)<br />
Format: ARC<br />
Page Count: 384 pages<br />
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">A death-defying tropical adventure delivers a frightening message about dabbling with creation from the talented author of <em>Origin</em>.</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;">On a remote island in the Pacific, Corpus scientists have taken test tube embryos and given them life. These beings—the Vitros—have knowledge and abilities most humans can only dream of. But they also have one enormous flaw.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818;">Sophie Crue is determined to get to Skin Island and find her mother, a scientist who left Sophie behind years ago. She enlists hunky charter pilot Jim Julien to take her there. But once on the island, Sophie and Jim encounter more than they bargained for, including a charming, brilliant Vitro named Nicholas and an innocent, newly awoken one named Lux.</span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818;">In a race for their lives, Sophie and Jim are about to discover what happens when science stretches too far beyond its reach.</span></span></b></div>
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<i>Vitro </i>is an action-packed, epic sophomore novel from Jessica Khoury that bended my mind and had me completely enthralled with Sophie and Jim's story. Hands-down one of the best sci-fi novels I've ever read!</div>
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I absolutely <i>adored </i>Khoury's <a href="http://bookyareview.blogspot.com/2013/11/brad-about-books-origin-by-jessica.html" style="font-style: italic;">Origin</a>, so I was very eager to dive into her latest novel, and I have to say that I wasn't disappointed! Most sci-fi/paranormal novels play on the subject of trying to push the boundaries, but what I loved most about <i>Vitro </i>was that it talked about the aftermath of what happens <i>after </i>the boundaries are exceeded. It's a fresh, unique spin on the sci-fi genre; Jessica Khoury nailed it with <i>Vitro</i>! Electric and stunning, <i>Vitro </i>is a must-read for fans of <i>The Madman's Daughter </i>and <i>For Darkness Shows the Stars</i>. Truly one of a kind!</div>
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Sophie and Jim are such <i>awesome </i>protagonists. Sophie is a determined, fierce leader who isn't afraid to fight for what she believes in, and I really appreciated that about her character. She's headstrong (sometimes against her own better judgement), but I can't deny that she is an epic main character. And Jim supported her and balanced her out so well! He wasn't the kind of guy who would abandon or turn a blind eye when Sophie needed help; needless to say, both of these characters were fantastic. Jessica Khoury has easily became one of my favorite authors!</div>
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Needing something fast-paced that will have you turning pages late into the night? <i>Vitro </i>is a fantastic choice. Each scene brings something to offer, and they all tie together as one big arc of an epic story that is unputdownable. I never wanted to set <i>Vitro </i>down for a minute - it consumed my entire mind. <i>Vitro </i>didn't disappoint, and it has quickly become one of my favorite books. </div>
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Overall, <i>Vitro </i>is a fast-paced, pulse-pounding read that will have you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Brave, bold, and original, <i>Vitro </i>is a gem that shouldn't be missed!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15340885736170768537noreply@blogger.com0