The Winner's Crime by Marie Rutkoski

Read from May 5 to 9, 2015

THE WINNER'S CRIME
Published: March 3, 2015
Publisher: FSG (Macmillan)
Format: Hardcover
Page Count: 402 pages
Source: Purchased
Series: The Winner's Trilogy, #2

This review is entirely spoiler free, even if you haven't read book one, The Winner's Curse.

Read my review for book one here

The Winner's Crime is a fantastic continuation of one of the best fantasy series out there. Full of scandal, wonderful romance, and excellent world-building, The Winner's Crime is spectacular.

I'll be honest when I say that The Winner's Crime 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 The Winner's Crime 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.

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 The Winner's Crime 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.

And the writing. 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 interesting. 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.

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, The Winner's Kiss, but I'm so ecstatic to see how it all wraps up!

Overall, The Winner's Crime 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.

M Y   R A T I N G

Brad About Books: The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkoski

Read from December 16 to 19, 2013

THE WINNER'S CURSE
Expected Publication Date: March 4, 2014
Publisher: FSG (Macmillan)
Format: ARC
Page Count: 355 pages
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review
Series: The Winner's Trilogy, #1

Winning what you want may cost you everything you love.

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. 

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. 

Set in a richly imagined new world, The Winner’s Curse 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.

There are no words to describe how fantastic that The Winner's Curse 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, The Winner's Curse is sure to revolutionize the YA genre. I adored this book. 

If you want to know how much I love The Winner's Curse, 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 superb. 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 The Winner's Curse is a must-read is an absolute understatement. I can't even with this amazingness that is The Winner's Curse.

"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." -The Winner's Curse (This writing style is fantastic. Absolutely stunning.)

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 know 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 The Winner's Curse, 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. 

The Winner's Curse 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 The Winner's Curse 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, The Winner's Curse is sure  to have you on the edge of your seat until the explosive, fantastic finale.

Overall, The Winner's Curse 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, The Winner's Curse is spectacular.

M Y     R A T I N G

Brad About Books: Tsarina by J. Nelle Patrick

TSARINA
Expected Publication Date: February 27, 2014
Publisher: Razorbill (Penguin)
Format: ARC
Page Count: 331 pages
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review

Natalya knows a secret.

A magical Faberge egg glows within the walls of Russia's Winter Palace.

It holds a power rooted in the land and stolen from the mystics.

A power that promises a life of love for her and Alexei Romanov.

Power, that, in the right hands, can save her way of life.

But it's not in the right hands.

Tsarina is a fast-paced, marvelously crafted story of the true competition for power and the bonds of love severing eternally. I adored this book. 

Jackson Pearce (writing as J. Nelle Patrick) is one of my all-time favorite authors, and I was very excited to see how she would take on a historical magic novel! And, just as I expected, she did not disappoint. Tsarina is unlike anything I have ever read. Combing Russian fantasy with a world of possibilities inside Natalya's hands, Tsarina 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 insane. 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, Tsarina is ultimately a shining gem that shouldn't be missed!

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 loved how Tsarina 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 Tsarina has a one of a kind, dark, and awesome world. While being heartbreaking and epic all at the same time, Tsarina is also so 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. 

The best part about Tsarina? 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, Tsarina is a masterful, remarkable story that is both equally powerful and fantastic. Tsarina is sure to be a big hit! A new favorite of mine, for sure!

Overall, Tsarina is such a fast-paced ride, it's impossible to put down! Phenomenal in every sense of the word - Tsarina is one of the best fantasies I've ever read!

M Y    R A T I N G

Brad About Books: Warrior by Ellen Oh

Read on September 29, 2013

WARRIOR
Expected Publication Date: December 31, 2013
Publisher: Harper Teen
Format: ARC
Page Count: 327 pages
Source: Received for review in exchange for an honest review
Series: Dragon King Chronicles, #2

This review is entirely spoiler free, even if you haven't read book one, Prophecy.

Warrior 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! 

I loved Prophecy, but wow, Warrior blew it out of the water! With Kira's circumstances shifted due to the end of Prophecy, 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. Warrior is easily one of my favorite sequels of all time!

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 the action never stopped (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 great 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 must read. Packed with the right amount of action and a heroine that will blow you away, Warrior has it all. Incredible in every sense of the word!

I was so 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, Warrior will consume your mind - even long after you've turned the final page. That ending was brilliant. I didn't see that coming, but once I got to the end, my mouth had seriously fallen open. I adored everything about Warrior. I need the third book like crazy! SO excited to see how it all concludes!

Overall, Warrior shouldn't be missed. Warrior is a sequel that will be the only thing on your mind. Mesmerizing!

M Y    R A T I N G

Brad About Books: Prophecy by Ellen Oh

Read on June 12, 2013

PROPHECY
Published: January 2, 2013
Publisher: Harper Teen
Format: Hardcover
Page Count: 312 pages
Source: Purchased
Series: Dragon King Chronicles, #1

The greatest warrior in all of the Seven Kingdoms... is a girl with yellow eyes.

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...

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.

Intrigue and mystery, ancient lore and action-packed fantasy come together in this heart-stopping first book in a trilogy.

One girl will save us all.

Prophecy 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!

I love fantasies so much, and Prophecy did not disappoint by any means. Prophecy 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, Prophecy 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. Everything about Prophecy is incredible - I highly recommend it! It's incredible!

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 Prophecy, 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!

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 Prophecy 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!

Overall, Prophecy 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 Prophecy down!

M Y    R A T I N G

Brad About Books: Rebel Spring by Morgan Rhodes

Read on July 27, 2013

REBEL SPRING
Expected Publication Date: December 3, 2013
Publisher: Razorbill (Penguin)
Format: ARC
Page Count: 416 pages
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review
Series: Kingdoms, #2

This review is entirely spoiler free, even if you haven't read book one, Falling Kingdoms.

Rebel Spring is an electrifying, sizzling sequel that not only lives up to the expectations made from Falling Kingdoms, it exceeds them. I'm not sure how Rhodes did it, but she made an even more epic, more stunning novel than the first. This is easily one of the best fantasy series out there.

I'm a huge fantasy fan - no, seriously, I love getting wrapped up in the incredible world-building, characters, and everything that the author creates - and this is one of my all-time favorite fantasy series. My favorite part about any fantasy series is the world-building; this series offers such a rich, complex, and fantastic world that is played upon even more in Rebel Spring. I loved how we got to see the most darkest of regions in this sequel, and the stakes were kicked up to a new notch. There was never a dull moment during Rebel Spring. It kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time, and I couldn't ever put it down. It made me feel all of the feels. Everything about Rebel Spring blew me away - I absolutely adore this series. If you loved Falling Kingdoms, prepare to be dazzled by Rebel Spring.

We get to follow four main people in this series: Cleo (a princess), Jonas (revolution rebel), Lucia (not everything is what it seems), and Magnus (royalty with a few tricks up his sleeves), and the most amazing thing about these characters? They all evolve and develop in this sequel. Each character changes in some way - some for the good, some for the worse - and layers upon layers are added to these characters, giving them even more depth than before. Morgan Rhodes did an incredible job at crafting together this sequel. You know that dreaded Sequel Slump Syndrome? It completely passed over this series. Rebel Spring is one of the best sequels I've ever read that adds to a rich, vibrant series that shouldn't be missed.

The ending! Just like the ending of Falling Kingdoms, it's action-packed, epic, and nail-biting-worthy. Rhodes throws betrayal and action scenes at the reader so quickly - it is impossible to put this series down. If you're needing something to complete enthrall yourself in and get lost in, this series is a must-read. Epic and marvelous, Morgan Rhodes nailed it with Rebel Spring! One of my favorites of the year!

Overall, Rebel Spring is a fantastically incredible sequel that will have readers turning pages as fast as they can. Brilliant!

M Y     R A T I N G

Brad About Books: The Burning Sky by Sherry Thomas

Read from July 21 to 22, 2013

THE BURNING SKY
Expected Publication Date: September 17, 2013
Publisher: Balzer + Bray (Harper)
Format: ARC
Page Count: 464 pages
Source: ALA
Series: Elemental, #1

It all began with a ruined elixir and an accidental bolt of lightning…

Iolanthe Seabourne is the greatest elemental mage of her generation—or so she's being told. The one prophesied for years to be the savior of The Realm. It is her duty and destiny to face and defeat the Bane, the greatest mage tyrant the world has ever known. A suicide task for anyone let alone a sixteen-year-old girl with no training, facing a prophecy that foretells a fiery clash to the death.

Prince Titus of Elberon has sworn to protect Iolanthe at all costs but he's also a powerful mage committed to obliterating the Bane to avenge the death of his family—even if he must sacrifice both Iolanthe and himself to achieve his goal.

But Titus makes the terrifying mistake of falling in love with the girl who should have been only a means to an end. Now, with the servants of the Bane closing in, he must choose between his mission and her life.

She can deny her powers. But she cannot deny destiny. 

The Burning Sky is an electric, soaring novel that captures the essence of a strong protagonist and beautiful writing. This is how fantasy should be done.

I had major, major expectations for The Burning Sky, and I was so pleased and astonished to find that not only were they met, they were exceeded greatly. I'm a huge high fantasy junkie, and this novel is such an incredible fantasy. Deception, betrayal, and magic all come together to create a masterful arc of a story; I can't even begin to tell you how truly blown away I was by The Burning Sky. If you love fantasy, historical fiction, and deadly, dazzling magic, The Burning Sky is for you without a doubt. The writing style is gorgeous. We are thrust into this world head first, and I felt like I was along side Iolanthe, training to defeat the Bane. Sherry Thomas has woven together an incredible, marvelous novel that shouldn't be missed. This is a true gem amongst YA.

The characters are what makes The Burning Sky stunning. Iolanthe has had no training to defeat anything, let alone the greatest evil in her world; but she's been told that she is the most powerful and greatest elemental Mage, so she must defeat the Bane. The evolution and growth that Iolanthe endures in this novel is incredible. She starts off naïve and weak, but she becomes strong, fierce, and determined, willing to take on anything. Thomas did an exceptional job with her character development. And Prince Titus! He seems cold and stone-hearted in the beginning, but as The Burning Sky progresses and the reader sinks further down into this rich, epic story, we learn his past and get a true feel for him. When Iolanthe and Titus collide, the world could either shatter, or the world could be redeemed. I loved these two characters as a duo, working alongside each other; they compliment and contrast each other so well. Needless to say, I absolutely loved everything about The Burning Sky.

The Burning Sky is so climatic and thrilling! There is a never a dull moment, and I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. This book was contagious: I couldn't enough of it and I always wanted more, more, more! It'll have you looking over your shoulder, wanting to harbor magic yourself, and make you feel like you're standing with Iolanthe on the battlefield. The Burning Sky is, simply put, phenomenal. Definitely a new favorite book of mine!

Overall, The Burning Sky is an incredible gem that shines out. Deeply rich and compelling, I never wanted The Burning Sky to end! Sequel now, please!

M Y    R A T I N G

Brad About Books: Frozen by Melissa de la Cruz and Michael Johnston

Read from July 5 to 6, 2013

FROZEN
Expected Publication Date: September 17, 2013
Publisher: Putnam (Penguin)
Format: ARC
Page Count: 336 pages
Source: ALA
Series: Heart of Dread, #1

From New York Times bestselling author Melissa de la Cruz and Michael Johnston comes this remarkable first book in a spellbinding new series about the dawn of a new kind of magic.

Welcome to New Vegas, a city once covered in bling, now blanketed in ice. Like much of the destroyed planet, the place knows only one temperature—freezing. But some things never change. The diamond in the ice desert is still a 24-hour hedonistic playground and nothing keeps the crowds away from the casino floors, never mind the rumors about sinister sorcery in its shadows.

At the heart of this city is Natasha Kestal, a young blackjack dealer looking for a way out. Like many, she's heard of a mythical land simply called “the Blue.” They say it’s a paradise, where the sun still shines and the waters are turquoise. More importantly, it’s a place where Nat won’t be persecuted, even if her darkest secret comes to light.

But passage to the Blue is treacherous, if not impossible, and her only shot is to bet on a ragtag crew of mercenaries led by a cocky runner named Ryan Wesson to take her there. Danger and deceit await on every corner, even as Nat and Wes find themselves inexorably drawn to each other. But can true love survive the lies? Fiery hearts collide in this fantastic tale of the evil men do and the awesome power within us all.

Ice deserts, and pirates, and dragons, oh my! Frozen is an utterly fantastic and epic adventure that was absolutely impossible to put down. This spellbinding start to a promising series has became one of my new favorite novels! I can't even begin to tell you how awesome this book is.

If you're needing something you've never read before: something so remarkably unique, something that will have you in its clutches, something that will get you invested into the world so much, Frozen is the way to go. Everything is iced over, pirates roam the seas, dragons lurk within the world, and Nat and Ryan set off on a lethal and deadly quest that will revolutionize the world. The adventures that Nat and Ryan endure in Frozen were phenomenal. From playing in a casino in Vegas to voyaging the seas, Nat and Ryan go on such an epic, heartstopping journey throughout this novel, and it's impossible to set down. I devoured this novel so quickly; I couldn't get enough!

World-building is my favorite part of a book. If an author(s) can craft together a brilliant, marvelous world, I'm sold on the novel. Oh boy, the world in Frozen is fantastic! Post-apocalytpic books are some of my favorites, but I don't think I've ever read a novel about an ice disaster. Frozen is a whirlwind of a novel that never let me go. I was enchanted by the fact of an ice desert with ice dragons roaming the world, and it's one of the key factors that makes Frozen heavily unique. Fantasy lovers, rejoice: you are going to fall so hard for the Heart of Dread series. I need the second book pronto!

The action scenes are phenomenal. Both Nat and Ryan are trying to find a way out of their miserable lives, and the only place left on this torn world for that is the Blue, only labeled a myth because it's a paradise where the sun shines bright. The journey to the Blue is treacherous, and Melissa de la Cruz and Michael Johnston do a dazzling job at taking the reader on this wild ride to find the paradise. Everything about Frozen worked perfectly for me, and it has become one of my reads for the year. Frozen will melt any icy heart and give new light to the fantasy genre! A must-read, without a doubt!

Overall, Frozen is a fantastic beginning to the series and left me begging for more. Melissa de la Cruz and Michael Johnston are a phenomenal and exceptional duo in YA. I want more of this world!

M Y    R A T I N G

Brad About Books: Deception by C.J. Redwine

Read on July 5, 2013

DECEPTION
Expected Publication Date: August 27, 2013
Publisher: Balzer + Bray (Harper)
Format: ARC
Page Count: 480 pages
Source: ALA
Series: Defiance, #2

This review is entirely spoiler free, even if you haven't read book one, Defiance.

Deception... oh my gosh, Deception! I really enjoyed the first novel, but C.J. Redwine created an even more epic and dazzling sequel that had me completely enthralled. Phenomenal with a capital P!

I'm going to be honest: when I read Defiance, the first book, I had some trouble getting into it. It took me about forty pages to adjust to the world and characters, but after that, it soared, and I fell in love with it. I had no problem whatsoever getting into Deception! It probably was because I was used to the world of Baalboden, and to Rachel and Logan. But Deception brings something to the table I've never seen done before in this genre: betrayal amongst friends. There's an enemy within the group of rebels, and someone isn't who they say they are. And I loved that! It was so interesting to guess who was the backstabber and see how Rachel and Logan progressed in this brutal, harsh wasteland. Redwine definitely put her characters to the test in Deception, and it was absolutely phenomenal. One of my favorite reads of the year!

With Defiance, we mainly got to see Baalboden and a few places outside the walls. And believe me when I say that I freaked out when we got to explore more of the entire world! Traveling with Rachel and Logan was a blast, especially when there is a traitor in their group - the struggles, hardships, and backstabbing that Rachel and Logan endure in Deception was one of a kind. I love it when an author isn't afraid to break their characters and put them to the test. When I was nearing the end, I had no idea what in the world would happen to this duo. I can't even express how much I love Deception. I can't even.

It's unbelievable how much action there is in this sequel! Sometimes with sequels, the plot can drag on and nothing can happen, all because we're waiting for the grand, explosive finale in the third book. That is totally not the case in Deception! It's impossible to put it down - Redwine throws action scenes at the reader so quickly, but in a way for the reader to absorb the atmosphere and feel like they're standing on the battlefield with these characters. If you enjoyed Defiance, just wait till you read Deception - it'll make grab you, shake you, break you, and never let you go. Luckily, you'll never want it to end.

Overall, Deception was a marvelous sophomore novel that had me on the edge of my seat, turning pages desperately to find out what would happen next! Truly brilliant!

M Y    R A T I N G

Brad About Books: Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas

Read on July 11, 2013

CROWN OF MIDNIGHT
Expected Publication Date: August 27, 2013
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Format: ARC
Page Count: 417 pages
Source: ALA
Series: Throne of Glass, #2

This review is entirely spoiler free, even if you haven't read book one, Throne of Glass.

Crown of Midnight is an electrifying, fantastic sequel that captured me immediately and never let me go. Sarah J. Maas is a stunning voice in fantasy. I'm not sure how she did it, but not only did she created a sequel that was better than its predecessor, she knocked it out of the ballpark. One of the best sequels I've ever read.

With sequels, there is sometimes the dreaded "Sequel Slump". Oh man, did that pass right over Crown of Midnight! While I loved Throne of Glass, the beginning was hard for me to get into because of the new world and complex character-building. And since I was adjusted to that, I had no problem whatsoever diving into Crown of Midnight. The action never stops in this book - whether it's with fighting and Celaena being an awesome, kick-butt protagonist, or tension-filled scenes that has the reader on the edge of their seat, you can't deny that Crown of Midnight is fantastic in every way possible. Filled with adventure and marvelous character development, Crown of Midnight shook me around and never let me go - luckily, I never wanted it to end.

One of my most favorite parts about this sequel was the character. Every single character develops and changes (sometimes for the worse, sometimes for the better) in some way, and I adored that. Maas never skipped over a character and gave each character their own spotlight moment. Celaena has easily become one of my favorite protagonists of all-time; what's not to love about her?! She's an epic assassin, and she never lets anyone push her around. I didn't think we got to see a whole lot of Chaol in book one, but that was definitely remedied in Crown of Midnight. Chaol can be a tough, headstrong warrior and guard, but he also has times where he breaks down. And I really appreciated how he's not made out to be tough and fierce all the time, because he's not - Maas does an extraordinary job with her characters, and I give her a huge standing ovation for this marvelous and phenomenal second book.

That. Ending. Sarah J. Maas blew my mind with that ending - I'm still not over it! When I was nearing towards the end of Crown of Midnight, I had no idea how in the world it could possibly end. And my gosh, I did not expect that... and it was totally awesome! I think that was a very strong and smart ending, and I cannot wait to see where the story goes next. If you enjoyed Throne of Glass, you are going to fall head over heels in love with Crown of Midnight!

Overall, Crown of Midnight is a masterpiece amongst fantasy. Deeply rich and fantastically incredible, I absolutely adore this book!

M Y   R A T I N G

Brad About Books: The Bitter Kingdom by Rae Carson

Read on July 8, 2013

THE BITTER KINGDOM
Expected Publication Date: August 27, 2013
Publisher: Greenwillow (Harper)
Format: ARC
Page Count: 433 pages
Source: ALA
Series: Fire and Thorns, #3

This review is entirely spoiler free, even if you haven't started this series.

Read my reviews for the first two books in the series:

The Girl of Fire and Thorns • The Crown of Embers

The Bitter Kingdom is an epic and highly-satisfying conclusion to one of the best fantasy series ever written. Thrilling and pulse-pounding, The Bitter Kingdom is a fantastic ending - Rae Carson is officially the master of fantasy!

If you don't know, I am a high fantasy junkie - I devour those books up like they're nothing. And now that I have completed this trilogy, I can say that the Fire and Thorns trilogy is my favorite high fantasy series ever! The world-building is phenomenal. It's so complex and rich and very easy to dive into! Another favorite part about this series? Each book takes you on a different journey to a new place in the world. We don't stay the same part, and it's totally awesome. And while I love every book in this series, The Bitter Kingdom was definitely my favorite! The world grew so much, as well did the characters! It's absolutely phenomenal - I adore this trilogy to pieces!

And that brings me to my next point of why The Bitter Kingdom is a fantastic conclusion: the characters! Oh my gosh! It's no secret that Elisa is one of the strongest characters in YA, and she develops even more in this third book. And based on her situation, she has to become stronger. She was a little bit naïve in the first book (not much), but she knows who she is now, and she knows that she must protect her world. And woah, she is awesome. Carson did an incredible job with Elisa, and I loved being on this journey with her! So, so amazing. AND, we get to see Hector's POV in The Bitter Kingdom! Hector is a great male lead, and to be inside his head was stunning! Every person of the ensemble is one of a kind in this trilogy. I could go on for hours explaining how much I love this series!

The ending! Woah! Talk about fast-paced. It's impossible to put The Bitter Kingdom down for a minute. If I wasn't reading it, it was the only thing on my mind. It completely consumes your mind and it won't go away. I never wanted The Bitter Kingdom to end! And while I am very sad that the series is now over, I couldn't have asked for a better ending. Marvelous!

Overall, The Bitter Kingdom is a fantastic conclusion to one of my favorite series ever. Simply stunning; I'm utterly speechless. One of the best endings I've ever read!

M Y    R A T I N G

Brad About Books: Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

Read on June 24, 2013

THRONE OF GLASS
Published: August 7, 2012
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Format: Hardcover
Page Count: 404 pages
Source: Purchased
Series: Throne of Glass, #1

After serving out a year of hard labor in the salt mines of Endovier for her crimes, 18-year-old assassin Celaena Sardothien is dragged before the Crown Prince. Prince Dorian offers her her freedom on one condition: she must act as his champion in a competition to find a new royal assassin. Her opponents are men-thieves and assassins and warriors from across the empire, each sponsored by a member of the king's council. If she beats her opponents in a series of eliminations, she'll serve the kingdom for three years and then be granted her freedom. 

Celaena finds her training sessions with the captain of the guard, Westfall, challenging and exhilirating. But she's bored stiff by court life. Things get a little more interesting when the prince starts to show interest in her... but it's the gruff Captain Westfall who seems to understand her best. 

Then one of the other contestants turns up dead... quickly followed by another. 

Can Celaena figure out who the killer is before she becomes a victim? As the young assassin investigates, her search leads her to discover a greater destiny than she could possibly have imagined.

Throne of Glass is a marvelous, riveting read that is dazzling hit in high fantasy. Sarah J. Maas is the new Tolkien! I can't even begin to express my extreme amount of love for this fantastic read!

If you know me, you know that I am sucker for high fantasy. Everything about it captivates me - the incredible world-buildings, the wonderful characters, and the plots are always epic and fast-paced. Throne of Glass is no exception to any of these. In fact, I think that this is my new favorite high fantasy book! No joke! My favorite part about a high fantasy novel is the world-building. An author can do so much for creating a world from the ground up, and Maas did a fantastic job with this epic and frightening world! I mean, assassins?! Fighting in an arena to be the King's Assassin?! YES. PLEASE. Going into Throne of Glass, I expected to be wow-ed and had my socks rocked off. And believe me when I say, I was blown away and more. Phenomenal!

Celaena was stunning! She's strong, fierce, loyal, and determined. She's everything I love in a good heroine. She kicks butt now and asks questions later - which, to be honest, is a fantastic trait to have in this brutal and tough world. I loved her right from the first sentence, and she never let me down. And she's not only the great character in Throne of Glass! I sometimes have problems with males in high fantasy. They're either too high-on-their-horse and snobby, or weak and always wanting to put the heroine in front of himself (which is a whole lot better than snobby). But Maas veers away from the norm and made our two strong heros exactly that - strong, hard-working, but with a heart that only Celaena could touch. And not only does this book live up to all the hype surrounding it, it well-earns every bit of it wholly. Just one of the numerous reasons why Throne of Glass rocked my world.

And just the entire plot of this book is so awesome and wonderful. There was never a dull moment for me - if I wasn't captivated by all the action and crazy-lightning-fast-paced scenes, I was marveling the beauty of Maas's prose and the way she described the castle of glass. If you are a high fantasy junkie (like myself), Throne of Glass is a must-read. You won't regret it!

Overall, Throne of Glass is an epic tale that shouldn't be missed. More please!

M Y    R A T I N G

Brad About Books: Falling Kingdoms by Morgan Rhodes

Read from April 24 to 25, 2013

FALLING KINGDOMS
Published: December 11, 2012
Publisher: Razorbill (Penguin)
Format: Hardcover
Page Count: 412 pages
Source: Purchased
Series: Kingdoms, #1

The gripping New York Times bestseller that is Game of Thrones for teens

In a land where magic has been forgotten but peace has reigned for centuries, a deadly unrest is simmering. Three kingdoms grapple for power—brutally transforming their subjects' lives in the process. Amidst betrayals, bargains, and battles, four young people find their fates forever intertwined:

Cleo: A princess raised in luxury must embark on a rough and treacherous journey into enemy territory in search of a magic long thought extinct.

Jonas: Enraged at injustice, a rebel lashes out against the forces of oppression that have kept his country impoverished—and finds himself the leader of a people's revolution centuries in the making.

Lucia: A girl adopted at birth into a royal family discovers the truth about her past—and the supernatural legacy she is destined to wield.

Magnus: Bred for aggression and trained to conquer, a firstborn son begins to realize that the heart can be more lethal than the sword. . . .

The only outcome that's certain is that kingdoms will fall. Who will emerge triumphant when all they know has collapsed?

Falling Kingdoms is an outstanding, riveting read that had me intertwined with this world and totally consumed by the beautiful, yet haunting, world that Rhodes expertly crafted. George R.R. Martin better watch out - Morgan Rhodes is a fantastic and brilliant voice in fantasy!

If you don't know this, I am such a fanatic for high fantasy (or just regular fantasy) books - they're just so complex and fantastic. I love them! Falling Kingdoms is easily one of the best high fantasy novels I have ever read. I honestly think that this book is the new modern Lord of the Rings. World-building is what makes a fantasy novel come together, and this war-torn and bloodshed land is absolutely phenomenal. The three kingdoms {Auranos, Limeros, and Paelsia} are enticing and captivating - I would love to be able to visit this world! Morgan Rhodes (or Michelle Rowen) weaved this land together so brilliantly and mind-blowing. If you're a fan of high fantasy/fantasy, Falling Kingdoms is an absolute must-read!

The characters are also phenomenal. Yes, it's a bit complex to figure out and remember who's who, what role they play in this world, and who they want revenge on/are in hiding from. Once you get the hang of it, it's not hard whatsoever - that's how much of an amazing job Rhodes did with this book. I'm in shocked! I'm stunned! I am so excited for Rebel Spring, the sequel. I need that book, like, yesterday!

I'm a big fan of first lines. I'm an even bigger fan of first paragraphs. But I'm a MAJOR fan of last lines. If an author can really nail the last line of a book, whether it be a cliffhanger or just the end to a series, I know I'm hooked and captivated. And let me say, Falling Kingdoms has one of my favorite last lines ever. Seriously. It's not very cliffhanger-y, but it definitely makes me want the rest of the series! Oh my gosh, I can't even with this book. It's just fantastic.

I'm speechless.

Overall, Falling Kingdoms is an absolutely mind-blowing and phenomenal fantasy that stands out as a favorite book of the year... and of all time. Stunning, stellar, and enchanting as magic, Falling Kingdoms is a must-read!

M Y    R A T I N G

Brad About Books: The Crown of Embers by Rae Carson

Read from March 28 to 29, 2013

THE CROWN OF EMBERS
Published: September 18, 2012
Publisher: Greenwillow (Harper)
Format: Hardcover
Page Count: 410 pages
Source: Amazon.com
Series: Fire and Thorns, #2

This review is entirely spoiler free, even if you haven't read the first book.

Read my review from the first book in this series:

The Girl of Fire and Thorns

Let me start off by saying that I adore high fantasy - it's fantastic. I love being on journeys, exploring new, vibrant and brilliant worlds and getting to read about the most magnificent creatures and characters. And Rae Carson is an absolute genius. I can officially declare that she is one of my favorite fantasy authors. The Crown of Embers is a sequel that soars, and every part of this book is amazing. I can't express my love for this series enough!

Elisa is a brilliant protagonist, and she becomes even fiercer in this book. This is how a fantasy character should be. Strong and powerful, Elisa shines out in the characters found in YA, and I always look forward to going on these fantastic journeys with her. And this series is insane! So much action happens, and I flew through these pages!

The world-building is so vivid and lush. Carson's world is lethal and deadly, yet beautifully-described and a world I would love to visit. I mean, come on. Assassins, rebels, and a kingdom in peril? That sounds right up my alley. If you are a high fantasy lover, like myself, this series is a must read!

You know how some sequels are never quite as good as book one? Absolutely and totally not the case here. I loved The Girl of Fire and Thorns, but man, I adored The Crown of Embers! So much more action and suspense, I literally could not put this book down. And when I would put it down, it was the only thing on my mind.

That ending was evil. I am definitely reading The Bitter Kingdom soon! Rae Carson, you are a genius! That ending was phenomenal!

Overall, The Crown of Embers is easily one of my favorite books of the year. This fantasy is flawless, and Rae Carson has become one of my favorite authors. Mind-bending and addictive, The Crown of Embers is truly brilliant!

MY RATING