Vessel by Sarah Beth Durst

Vessel by Sarah Beth Durst

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Source: Library
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry
Format: Hardcover, 424 pages
Release Date: September 11, 2012

Liyana has trained her entire life to be the vessel of a goddess. She will dance and summon her tribe's deity, who will inhabit Liyana's body and use magic to bring rain to the desert. But when the dance ends, Liyana is still there. Her tribe is furious--and sure that it is Liyana's fault. Abandoned by her tribe, Liyana expects to die in the desert. Until a boy walks out of the dust in search of her.

Korbyn is a god inside his vessel, and a trickster god at that. He tells Liyana that five other gods are missing, and they set off across the desert in search of the other vessels. The desert tribes cannot survive without the magic of their gods. But the journey is dangerous, even with a god’s help. And not everyone is willing to believe the trickster god’s tale.

The closer she grows to Korbyn, the less Liyana wants to disappear to make way for her goddess. But she has no choice--she must die for her tribe to live. Unless a trickster god can help her to trick fate--or a human girl can muster some magic of her own.

It's no secret that fantasy is my favourite genre. The premise of Vessel had me wide-eyed and eager with anticipation as soon as I heard of it with promises of a trickster god, desert tribes and sand-wolves. However while I liked it well enough, I found myself a little disappointed with Vessel.

Don't get me wrong, the world-building was great. I loved the fantasy elements and adored the stories that were shared. From the world set-up perspective, I was perfectly content and had no trouble at all tearing through this novel. It's easy to read and entertaining as an added bonus.

Where Vessel didn't fare as well for me was mostly in character development and plot progression. Vessel is well-positioned to examine a number of complex moral issues. However while these issues are addressed and pondered, I feel like the author could have done so much more with them by bringing in the characters more. Liyana and the other vessels all appeared fairly one-dimensional. I can categorize them easily by certain distinctive personality traits but these general overviews didn't allow me to connect with them on a more personal level. I wanted to be swept up in feeling for these teens but I struggled to empathize with their situations. The only character that really held my attention was Korbyn, the trickster god, who seemed the most complexly-developed to me.

Sarah Beth Durst is a talented writer and as I said before, the novel reads easily enough with the support of fascinating little stories, but I have to say that the plot dragged at times. The book is written to be slow-going but my dissatisfaction with some of the moral dilemmas coupled with some repetition made it feel overly so at parts.

I'm aware that this review may sound more negative than positive but I'd just like to stress that this novel is really one that I enjoyed reading. The expectations that I had for this book going into it were likely unfairly high and I think my disappointment reflects that. If it sounds remotely interesting to you though, I, as always, really encourage you to give it a try!

3 Golden Crowns

Cover Comments: *swoon* This cover is so dreamy, I adore it.

Sever by Lauren DeStefano

Sever by Lauren DeStefano

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Source: Ontario Blogger Meet-up
Publisher: Simon & Schuster BFYR
Format: Hardcover, 384 pages
Release Date: February 12, 2013

With the clock ticking until the virus takes its toll, Rhine is desperate for answers. After enduring Vaughn’s worst, Rhine finds an unlikely ally in his brother, an eccentric inventor named Reed. She takes refuge in his dilapidated house, though the people she left behind refuse to stay in the past. While Gabriel haunts Rhine’s memories, Cecily is determined to be at Rhine’s side, even if Linden’s feelings are still caught between them.

Meanwhile, Rowan’s growing involvement in an underground resistance compels Rhine to reach him before he does something that cannot be undone. But what she discovers along the way has alarming implications for her future—and about the past her parents never had the chance to explain.

In this breathtaking conclusion to Lauren DeStefano’s Chemical Garden trilogy, everything Rhine knows to be true will be irrevocably shattered.

Lauren DeStefano returns with her signature prose in this finale to the beautifully-crafted Chemical Garden trilogy.

I have really, really enjoyed this series since starting it nearly two years ago and it's one that I will be sad to see go. Lauren DeStefano's gorgeous writing has made it so easy to be transported into her world and the characters glow with depth and vibrancy. However, I must say that I'm a bit conflicted in my feelings for this last book.

For over half of the book, I was loving it. We're introduced to a new setting and the plot carries on from the last book with great momentum, revealing new twists and answering old questions. I was also coming to appreciate Linden and Cecily more than I had in the past as they grew into stronger characters capable of independent thought. Thankfully, this was something that continued for the entirety of the book -- I am so Team Cecily after this book!

But then, something changed for me. I don't know if it was just one twist too many or I wasn't keeping up well enough to understand the new things the plot was throwing at me but I just feel like we veered off course. And I'm fine with the author shaking things up a bit but it just threw me for a loop. I'm still not exactly sure what was going on, both with the plot and with Rhine.

Toward the end of the book though, things seemed to settle. It was a fitting conclusion to this excellent series and managed to provide satisfaction in tying up the loose ends without an unbelievable type of perfection. I'm content with where things stand at the end of this novel.

Overall, a very well-written conclusion to the Chemical Garden trilogy.

Cover Comments: Apparently a lot of people hate this cover? I don't know, I like it! I wish that Rhine's hair was a bit more unruly like in the first cover (I mean, they mention it enough times in the book) and maybe the colour is a bit shocking, but overall, I think it's fitting. The assortment of objects on the floor make sense and even Rhine's posture fits the image I have of her in this book (make of that what you will, haha).

4 Golden Crowns!

Hunting Lila by Sarah Alderson

Hunting Lila by Sarah Alderson

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Source: Traded with Chloe
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Format: Paperback, 318 pages
Release Date: August 5, 2011

17-year-old Lila has two secrets she’s prepared to take to the grave. The first is that she can move things just by looking at them. The second is that she’s been in love with her brother’s best friend, Alex, since forever.

After a mugging exposes her unique ability, Lila decides to run to the only people she can trust—her brother and Alex. They live in Southern California where they work for a secret organisation called The Unit, and Lila discovers that the two of them are hunting down the men who murdered her mother five years before. And that they’ve found them.

In a world where nothing and no one is quite as they seem, Lila quickly realises that she is not alone—there are others out there just like her—people with special powers—and her mother’s killer is one of them…

Most of my feelings for this book can be summed up in one word: ADDICTING. I'd heard a LOT about this book before reading it (*cough*Brodie*cough*) so to say that it had expectations to match up to is an understatement. The proof is in the bags under my eyes though -- any book that can keep me up until 2 AM is a winner.

I'll be honest, I wasn't sure how well Lila and I were going to click in the beginning. Her voice came across as a bit over-dramatic and she seemed eye-roll-worthy in the love department, two things that I generally have a tough time dealing with in YA after my years of over-exposure to Fanfiction. But then... it didn't even matter. I got so swept into the story myself, so attached and charmed by the characters, that I couldn't fault Lila for feeling the way that she did.

Sarah Alderson has a serious aptitude for romance writing. I fell hard and fast for the relationship between Lila and Alex, two characters that I came to adore both individually and as a pair. The attraction and connection between them sizzled and I look forward to more of the same in the sequel.

Along with the romance came heart-pounding action; a winning combination. I was perched on the edge of my chair for the entire time I was reading and I didn't put it down once. The way in which Sarah writes about Lila's power and the events of the novel were so easy to visualize. Reading the novel was so much more than the typical reading experience, I really felt like it gave me a more intimate look at what was going on.

Relatable characters, swoon-worthy romance and heart-stopping action? This had better be on your reading list.

Cover Comments: I like it! I think it gives an idea of the high stakes action you can expect in the book (because she's... not stationary?) and the tagline is great.

4.5 Golden Crowns

Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare

Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare

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Source: Birthday present!
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books
Format: Hardcover, 502 pages
Release Date: December 6, 2011

In the magical underworld of Victorian London, Tessa Gray has at last found safety with the Shadowhunters. But that safety proves fleeting when rogue forces in the Clave plot to see her protector, Charlotte, replaced as head of the Institute. If Charlotte loses her position, Tessa will be out on the street—and easy prey for the mysterious Magister, who wants to use Tessa’s powers for his own dark ends. With the help of the handsome, self-destructive Will and the fiercely devoted Jem, Tessa discovers that the Magister’s war on the Shadowhunters is deeply personal. He blames them for a long-ago tragedy that shattered his life. To unravel the secrets of the past, the trio journeys from mist-shrouded Yorkshire to a manor house that holds untold horrors, from the slums of London to an enchanted ballroom where Tessa discovers that the truth of her parentage is more sinister than she had imagined. When they encounter a clockwork demon bearing a warning for Will, they realize that the Magister himself knows their every move—and that one of their own has betrayed them.

Tessa finds her heart drawn more and more to Jem, though her longing for Will, despite his dark moods, continues to unsettle her. But something is changing in Will—the wall he has built around himself is crumbling. Could finding the Magister free Will from his secrets and give Tessa the answers about who she is and what she was born to do?

As their dangerous search for the Magister and the truth leads the friends into peril, Tessa learns that when love and lies are mixed, they can corrupt even the purest heart.

I should probably warn you up front that my love for this book is INSANE. Hopefully it will turn out to be more than exclamation marks, hearts and flailing but... you know. No promises.

5 Reasons Why You Should Read Clockwork Prince 

1. The writing, the writing, the writing!

Not everyone falls for Cassandra Clare's writing style but I fall HARD. I connect so easily to the worlds and characters that she creates and so quickly too. Picking up this book was the perfect escape for me! 

2. Twisty-turny plot? Check.

Oh goodness! There is definitely at least ONE major point in Clockwork Prince that I did not see coming. I felt like I had it all figured out when I really didn't and trying to plot out what would happen next was lots of fun. Although I feel this book was largely focused on characters, the plot does keep moving and some great developments make themselves known!

3. Your heart rate will be off the charts... if it's still beating by the end of it.

I don't know about you, but I LOVE when an author can tug at my heart strings. Cassandra Clare does this like nobody's business and every second of emotion I experienced while reading this felt sharp and significant. With characters that you root for and care about, the emotional spectrum is all over the place. The feelings get messy and complicated, just the way I like them (welllll, I am still expecting a HEA but that's different ;)).

4. This love triangle is serious business!

Do you know how in some YA books it feels like the love triangle is there just to spice things up? Well, not in this series. Will, Jem and Tessa probably have the most convincing triangle I've ever read about. Each of them is tangled up in history and wants and chemistry and they all genuinely care for the other two. All of these characters are invested in each other for the long run and they ALL want a happy ending for the other person. 

5. JEM

I feel like this could very well be reasons 1-5 but since there are apparently some bizarre folks that prefer Will (!) I restrained myself. Jem is my absolute favourite book boyfriend of ALL TIME. That is a pretty huge honour if I do say so myself but it's one that he completely deserves. Sweet, caring, smart, funny, considerate, sexy, beautiful Jem... I can't get enough of him. Cassandra Clare manages to bring you even closer to the heart of his character in this instalment and every moment spent with him was one that I re-read about 5 times just to savour. 

If you haven't started this series... WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?!?!?!?!?!

Cover Comments: Cassandra Clare wins the cover lottery every. single. time. Although I think the new Clockwork Princess cover has stolen the spot of my favourite from her books, this is a close second. My beautiful Jem!

5/5 stars (+10?)

Black Heart by Holly Black

Black Heart by Holly Black

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Source: Library
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry
Format: Hardcover, 296 pages
Release Date: April 3, 2012

Cassel Sharpe knows he’s been used as an assassin, but he’s trying to put all that behind him. He’s trying to be good, even though he grew up in a family of con artists and cheating comes as easily as breathing to him. He’s trying to do the right thing, even though the girl he loves is inextricably connected with crime. And he’s trying to convince himself that working for the Feds is smart, even though he’s been raised to believe the government is the enemy. 

But with a mother on the lam, the girl he loves about to take her place in the Mob, and new secrets coming to light, the line between what’s right and what’s wrong becomes increasingly blurred. When the Feds ask Cassel to do the one thing he said he would never do again, he needs to sort out what’s a con and what’s truth. In a dangerous game and with his life on the line, Cassel may have to make his biggest gamble yet—this time on love.

Amazing. Just simply amazing. If you haven't yet started the Curse Workers series, you are missing out BIG TIME. I don't really know how else to say it.

At the risk of sounding like a broken record (I think I've probably said most of this stuff in my reviews for White Cat and Red Glove) I love this world that Holly Black has created. It's inventive, it's fun and it's exciting. There are little trademarks that go along with it (the gloves! the amulets!) and just the idea of the mafia magic is fascinating. Holly Black writes with such expertise on the universe that I have absolutely no trouble believing that the crimes and manipulation could happen. If nothing else, you have to agree that this is a high-concept, original series.

Cassel Sharpe. Not only is it a nice change to shift into a male's perspective, it's a nice change to shift into Cassel's mind in general. At times he's all over the place in this book, not sure what he wants, and that is so realistic. He struggles with what he's been taught all his life and that deeper instinct within himself to be "good." Cassel from Book 1 to now has grown and matured a lot and I think that's evident in this book.

Admittedly, I've never been a huge fan of Cassel and Lila as a couple. I love Cassel but at times it just felt like his relationship with Lila would never work out, either because of Lila's situation as the heir to head of a huge crime family or just because I didn't think she was good enough for him. In this book though, I was definitely turning around. It seemed like some things just clicked into place and I was a lot more supportive of their HEA.

While you may think that most of the action is resolved from the ending of Red Glove, at least for Cassel, that is so not true. There are new mysteries to be solved and, once again, I was too slow on the uptake to crack the mystery before Cassel did. I love that even though we're reading from Cassel's POV, there are still tricks up his sleeve that we're not privy to.

If you haven't started this series yet, I really have nothing more to say than go NOW. You won't regret it.

Cover Comments: Gahhhh. Do I like it? I DON'T KNOW. In some ways, I think the updated look the series has gotten is great because of the bright flashes of colour and way that it jumps out at you. It definitely has that darkness going for it. Other times though? They kind of weird me out. I mean, what the heck is with the person on the White Cat cover? That said, I definitely like this new cover for Black Heart more than the original. It always just looked so... ridiculous to me. What do you think?

5/5

Fever by Lauren DeStefano

SPOILERS FOR WITHER (BOOK 1) IN THIS REVIEW!

Fever by Lauren DeStefano

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Source: Library
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Format: Hardcover, 341 pages
Release Date: February 21, 2012

Rhine and Gabriel have escaped the mansion, but danger is never far behind.

Running away brings Rhine and Gabriel right into a trap, in the form of a twisted carnival whose ringmistress keeps watch over a menagerie of girls. Just as Rhine uncovers what plans await her, her fortune turns again. With Gabriel at her side, Rhine travels through an environment as grim as the one she left a year ago - surroundings that mirror her own feelings of fear and hopelessness.

The two are determined to get to Manhattan, to relative safety with Rhine’s twin brother, Rowan. But the road there is long and perilous - and in a world where young women only live to age twenty and young men die at twenty-five, time is precious. Worse still, they can’t seem to elude Rhine’s father-in-law, Vaughn, who is determined to bring Rhine back to the mansion...by any means necessary.

In the sequel to Lauren DeStefano’s harrowing Wither, Rhine must decide if freedom is worth the price - now that she has more to lose than ever.

In a story that is just as, if not more, bone-chilling and evocative as its predecessor, Fever makes for a stunning sequel.

If you thought that the excitement was over with Wither, think again. Even though Rhine and Gabriel have managed to escape the mansion, the 'real world' is no less frightening and they soon find themselves in the hands of a twisted ringmistress. In her domain, the 'carnival' is more of a brothel and things don't look so great for Rhine and Gabriel.

Rhine is such a strong heroine. In a world where life is precious and there isn't time to lose, I find it so refreshing that she takes charge of the situation and acts despite the fear she may feel. It's said a couple of times in the novel that Rhine likes to take care of everyone and I think it's a pretty accurate statement. I can't wait to see where Rhine leads the story in the next book!

This series is one of the few with a love triangle where I can honestly say I find myself conflicted in which guy I prefer. Gabriel is caring and sweet but also kind of dull for me. Linden has some unidentifiable quality that I like but then there's the obvious reasons of him being so naive that I can't get over. I guess I don't really feel like either of these guys are worthy of Rhine yet... I'll be happy with whoever she picks.

One thing that I can see myself repeating over and over again is that I am in love with Lauren DeStefano's writing. It's elegant and gorgeous and I love how she can bring out the hope in one of the most bleak universes I've ever read about. Speaking of bleak... Housemaster Vaughn is back and creepy as ever! The story definitely has an edge of terror with him as an ever-looming threat and I love to hate him.

Magnificent!

Cover Comments: When this cover was first revealed, I think all of us were a little startled. I mean, the colours are kind of bizarre and what is up with Rhine? Now that I've read the book though, I have to say that I think it's perfect.

There are spoilers below if you haven't yet read the book:

A guy I was talking to actually said that Rhine looked like she had been drugged and was having hallucinations. I guess the cover gets the desired reaction, eh? ;)

5/5

(What do you guys think of the crowns? I've been trying to come up with something to use for my rating system and I'm trying this one out. Feedback is, as always, very much appreciated!) 

Amy & Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson

Amy & Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson

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Source: Won (paperback)

Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Format: Hardcover, 344 pages
Release Date: May 4, 2010

Amy Curry thinks her life sucks. Her mom decides to move from California to Connecticut to start anew--just in time for Amy's senior year. Her dad recently died in a car accident. So Amy embarks on a road trip to escape from it all, driving cross-country from the home she's always known toward her new life. Joining Amy on the road trip is Roger, the son of Amy's mother's old friend. Amy hasn't seen him in years, and she is less than thrilled to be driving across the country with a guy she barely knows. So she's surprised to find that she is developing a crush on him. At the same time, she's coming to terms with her father's death and how to put her own life back together after the accident. Told in traditional narrative as well as scraps from the road--diner napkins, motel receipts, postcards--this is the story of one girl's journey to find herself.

This book is one that sneaked up on me. I went into it with the praises of so many bloggers ringing in my ears but I just wasn't feeling it at the start. Amy's life situation is tough (it does kind of suck!) but I had some trouble connecting to her character immediately. Soon enough though, I felt myself falling deeper in love for this gem of a road trip novel.

This is going to sound really dorky but I feel like I went on a big adventure with this book. When Amy and Roger first started taking the detours from their set itinerary, I got kind of panicked and the rule-follower in me was all, Amy, no! You can't! Then it just got so fun and so interesting and so personal that I couldn't really find it in myself to care much. I wanted them to take more detours if it meant extending their trip just a day longer because I was so invested in Amy and Roger.

Although it's Amy that is dealing with the brunt of the emotional pain after the loss of her father, Roger is not exactly living in a happy-go-lucky paradise. Both of these characters come so far in the course of the novel and that, to me, was the best part of the novel. That they are able to find comfort and strength in each other only makes their relationship all the more sweet.

Despite the darker side to Amy and Roger lives in the time of the novel, the journey they take is one filled with laughter and good times. An awesome soundtrack, a substantial amount of sugar and the bright personalities of the two main characters and all of the people they meet just make this such an enjoyable read. When the impressionable places they visit are added... let's just say it tips the scales in favour of Amy & Roger's Epic Detour.

A heartwarming story with plenty to make you laugh and think.

Cover Comments: Aww, it's cute! Anything with Amy and Roger together is enough to make me smile :)

4.5 stars

Bittersweet by Sarah Ockler

Bittersweet by Sarah Ockler

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Source: Pulse It
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Release Date: January 3, 2012
Format: Hardcover, 378 pages

Once upon a time, Hudson knew exactly what her future looked like. Then a betrayal changed her life, and knocked her dreams to the ground. Now she’s a girl who doesn’t believe in second chances... a girl who stays under the radar by baking cupcakes at her mom’s diner and obsessing over what might have been.

So when things start looking up and she has another shot at her dreams, Hudson is equal parts hopeful and terrified. Of course, this is also the moment a cute, sweet guy walks into her life... and starts serving up some seriously mixed signals. She’s got a lot on her plate, and for a girl who’s been burned before, risking it all is easier said than done.

It’s time for Hudson to ask herself what she really wants, and how much she’s willing to sacrifice to get it. Because in a place where opportunities are fleeting, she knows this chance may very well be her last...

I read Sarah Ockler's debut novel a while ago and really, really liked it. While this is definitely a different book than Twenty Boy Summer, I found myself loving it all the same!

The main character, Hudson, has such realistic flaws. I love it when my main characters are like actual people and Hudson totally fits the bill. You could almost see her being shaped into who she is from just a few well-placed scenes and memories of her life pre-baking. It's clear that skating was a huge part of Hudson's life and her feelings post-skating career definitely reflect that.

While Hudson is a figure skater through-and-through, circumstances also introduce her to the hockey team. Hudson's first meeting with the Wolves (like, seriously, they're the Watonka Wolves varsity team) is a little intimidating, to say the least. The boys could do with some proper manners and respect for the new girl isn't at the top of their priority list. As I got to know the team though, I started to really, really like them! They were hilarious and all of them had such distinctive personalities. They definitely made for a fun read.

Then there are the characters that Hudson knows on a more personal level: Bug, Dani, Josh, and the other workers at Hurley's. I am so appreciative of the way Sarah Ockler incorporated her friends and family into the framework of Hudson's life. Oh, and Josh is cute. That helps.

The resolution that happens at the end isn't necessarily easy, but it's rewarding. I don't want to spoil anything but Hudson's relationship with some of the characters is damaged (as they are) and there's quite a bit of talking that has to happen. Yay, healthy problem solving! A lot of the times in books, I'm left irritated at the final apology scene when one character takes -- or is given -- more than their fair share of blame. In Bittersweet, I thought it was all handled perfectly.

I really have to issue a warning though, before I can finish off. You guys MUST HAVE CUPCAKES READY for when you're reading. There is so much talk of delicious-sounding baked goods and I just... yeah. Cravings.

Cover Comments: I really want to see this one in person because I think it'll look a lot better than it does on my computer screen. Anyways, the cover is nice enough. I like that they kept it simple and the sugar dusting was a cool idea. It doesn't jump out at me or anything but I like it!

4.5 stars

The Alchemy of Forever by Avery Williams

The Alchemy of Forever by Avery Williams

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Source: Pulse It
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Format: Hardcover, 256 pages
Release Date: January 3, 2012

After spending six hundred years on Earth, Seraphina Ames has seen it all. Eternal life provides her with the world's riches but at a very high price: innocent lives. Centuries ago, her boyfriend, Cyrus, discovered a method of alchemy that allows them to take the bodies of other humans from jumping from one vessel to the next, ending the human's life in the process. No longer able to bear the guilt of what she's done, Sera escapes from Cyrus and vows to never kill again.

Then sixteen-year old Kailey Morgan gets into a horrific car accident right in front of her, and Sera accidentally takes over her body while trying to save her. For the first time, Sera finds herself enjoying the life of the person she's inhabiting--and falling in love with the boy who lives next door. But Cyrus will stop at nothing until she's his again, and every moment she stays, she's putting herself and the people she's grown to care about in danger. Will Sera have to give up the one thing that's eluded her for centuries: true love?

Avery Williams entices and ensnares in this dazzling debut.

Seraphina, or Sera as she likes to be called, is a heroine that possesses a more subtle kind of bravery. Emerging after centuries of guilt and desperation, it propels Sera to take some pretty drastic measures to get away from her boyfriend, Cyrus, and the ruthless measures he's been taking to stay alive. I liked Sera a lot. She's honest with herself and you can see the weariness her life has brought her. She has a conscience.

I read somewhere that someone was rather taken by Cyrus and I just... NO. Maybe this is an unpopular viewpoint (I really don't know) but I found him creepy and manipulative and possessive. In other words, not exactly ideal boyfriend material. Noah, on the other hand, was amazing. I couldn't help but feel really, really sorry for him -- and pretty much everyone else that knew "Kailey."

The novel is rather slow-paced but I never found it boring personally. Sera does a lot of reflection and she's very introspective so a good chunk of the book is focused on that rather than the action. There is also a great amount of focus on the science of alchemy which I found fascinating. There's really that debate of whether it's science (Cyrus) or magic (Sera), and not just with alchemy. My interest was definitely sparked.

Then we have... the end. HORRIBLE. EVIL. CLIFF-HANGER. Also, one that in no way did I see coming. Since I was reading it on the Pulse It website, I wasn't paying attention to the fact that the book was nearing its end and thought it would all wrap up with a pretty bow. So not the case. Evil, but awesome, awesome set-up for Book 2.

Interested in incarnation? Try The Alchemy of Forever.

Cover Comments: I like the multiple copies of Sera... nice visual representation of her many lives. The colours look well together as well and apparently the book is rather spiffy in person.

4.5 stars

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin 

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Source: Pulse It
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Release Date: September 27, 2011
Format: Hardcover, 452 pages

Mara Dyer doesn't think life can get any stranger than waking up in a hospital with no memory of how she got there.


It can.


She believes there must be more to the accident she can't remember that killed her friends and left her mysteriously unharmed.


There is.


She doesn't believe that after everything she's been through, she can fall in love.


She's wrong.

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer is... wow. I don't even really know what to call it. Creepy, romantic and compelling are some of the words that come to mind!

To be honest, I was a little hesitant to read this novel. I kept going back and forth - from some reviews, I thought it would be the crafty tale that it is; but from from others I thought that it would be more of a disturbing thriller. While there are some creepy elements, it makes for an exciting read rather than something that would scare my easily frightened self.

After moving to a new town to get away from the constant scrutiny she is receiving, Mara enrolls at Croyden Academy of the Arts and Sciences for a fresh start. Mara is an interesting character. I related to her easily, even though her situation was so bizarre and the facts surrounding it so blurry. She has a wonderful support system with her brother Daniel and her parents have good intentions, even if they don't always quite know what to do with Mara's situation.

Then we come to my favourite character of the book: Noah. Oh, Noah. Noah is supportive, caring and gorgeous. He's on Mara's side before he fully even understands why he needs to be and... he has a British accent. Seriously, I got into a metaphorical boxing ring with Brodie and Kathy for this boy (I won, obviously).

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer is almost impossible to put down. I started it late at night and the first thing I did in the morning was run to my computer to continue. In between cooking my lunch, I kept racing back to the computer to get in a few extra pages. I was obsessed! The plot is quick-paced with little snippets from the past peeled back until you are presented with the honest truth. The pages will fly and before you know it, you'll have reached the end, dying for more. I know I am!

Cover Comments: Now why can't we have more covers like THIS? It's intriguing and striking with a fancy font and Noah Shaw. I think all covers should have more Noah Shaw, don't you? ;)

5 stars 

Past Perfect by Leila Sales

Past Perfect by Leila Sales
(Goodreads profile)

Source: S&S Galley Grab
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Release Date: October 4, 2011
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 322

  All Chelsea wants to do this summer is hang out with her best friend, hone her talents as an ice cream connoisseur, and finally get over Ezra, the boy who broke her heart. But when Chelsea shows up for her summer job at Essex Historical Colonial Village (yes, really), it turns out Ezra’s working there too. Which makes moving on and forgetting Ezra a lot more complicated…even when Chelsea starts falling for someone new.

Maybe Chelsea should have known better than to think that a historical reenactment village could help her escape her past. But with Ezra all too present, and her new crush seeming all too off limits, all Chelsea knows is that she’s got a lot to figure out about love. Because those who don’t learn from the past are doomed to repeat it….

What a fun book!

Right off the bat, I was enchanted by this adorable novel. The main character's snarky attitude (albeit mostly in her head) made me laugh and I thought the setting of the historical reenactment village was spectacular. What might have been just another story of a girl dealing with first-time heartbreak and finding new love was spun into an entertaining ride through history and humour.

Chelsea was a great narrator for this novel. She manages to pull off the dramatic, love-induced teenage angst without coming across as too desperate or annoying (most of the time anyway) and her thoughts did just make me smile in general. I really liked the relationship she had with her best friend, Fiona. Actually, perhaps it's unfair of me to say that since I was sold on their friendship the minute I read of their aspirations to become ice cream connoisseurs, but I digress.

The romance between Chelsea and Dan was adorable. In the beginning, they were both more wary of falling for each other because, hello, these kids are at WAR - think Montagues and Capulets with historical reenactment villages and you'll get the idea. I found the war a fun and unique way of having starcrossed lovers in a contemporary setting without going overboard. As for the relationship between Chelsea and Dan, I was cheering them on from start to finish.

I cannot leave without mentioning once again how much I loved the setting of this novel. The atmosphere was just different inside the village, and I only wish we could have seen more of that. Seriously, if Chelsea's job was available near me, you can bet that I would be applying for it (I'm the Type 2 applicant, for those that have read the book).

Read this novel if you're searching for cute contemporary (I for one am always on the lookout) or if you like history woven into your plots.

Cover Comments: Cute! If Chelsea sticking her tongue out as if to lick ice cream like I suspect (really, what else would she be doing?)... double cute! I would have liked to see Chelsea in her Colonial Village get-up though.

4/5

Drink, Slay, Love by Sarah Beth Durst

Drink, Slay, Love by Sarah Beth Durst
(Goodreads profile)

Source: S&S Galley Grab
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry
Release Date: September 13, 2011
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 320

Pearl is a sixteen-year-old vampire... fond of blood, allergic to sunlight, and mostly evil... until the night a sparkly unicorn stabs her through the heart with his horn. Oops.

Her family thinks she was attacked by a vampire hunter (because, obviously, unicorns don't exist), and they're shocked she survived. They're even more shocked when Pearl discovers she can now withstand the sun. But they quickly find a way to make use of her new talent. The Vampire King of New England has chosen Pearl's family to host his feast. If Pearl enrolls in high school, she can make lots of human friends and lure them to the King's feast -- as the entrees.

The only problem? Pearl's starting to feel the twinges of a conscience. How can she serve up her new friends—especially the cute guy who makes her fangs ache—to be slaughtered? Then again, she's definitely dead if she lets down her family. What's a sunlight-loving vamp to do?

As soon as I read this summary (actually, as soon as I saw the cover) I knew I had to try the book out. Just the basic concept of the story - typically evil vamp gets stabbed in the heart with a unicorn horn and starts to grow a conscience - sounds fun, original and witty. Drink, Slay, Love is exactly that.

One of my favourite parts of the story was the main character, Pearl. In the beginning, her behaviour is completely what I would expect of a vampire. She's confident to the point of arrogance, hostile, looks down on humans and adds a healthy dose of sarcasm to everything that comes out of her mouth. Her thoughts are hilarious and made me laugh out loud several times. With the stellar additions of Evan and Bethany, who are definitely not dark and cynical, Sarah created a cast of characters that constantly kept me entertained.

I was curious to see whether or not the transition from evil vamp to slightly-less-evil vamp would be pulled off smoothly enough to be realistic (er, as realistic as possible anyways). Happy to say it was! Pearl is completely unused to surprises of the nature she gets in the book, and I could see her struggle to maintain her composure at times. There is real character development at work as Pearl evolves into a totally new brand of vampire.

I have to admit that I was incredibly wary of Pearl going to high school. I knew it was coming from the summary, but it still took me by surprise in the actual book. My fears of the high school experience turning the story were completely unwarranted because Pearl is as fantastic as usual. Pulling the humans closer, scaring them away, rinse and repeat... I loved watching Pearl test the waters and navigate her way through the school. With the constant threat of what will happen if she lets her Family down at the back of Pearl's mind, there is carefully built-up tension every step of the way.

I think I've found my new favourite vampire novel!

5/5

Cover Comments: Love it! It's fun and quirky. How perfect is a blood-red bottle filled with blood for a vampire novel?

Red Glove by Holly Black

Major spoilers for White Cat in summary!

Red Glove by Holly Black

(Goodreads profile)

Source: Purchased
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry
Release Date: April 5, 2011
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 325

Curses and cons. Magic and the mob. In Cassel Sharpe's world, they go together. Cassel always thought he was an ordinary guy, until he realized his memories were being manipulated by his brothers. Now he knows the truth—he’s the most powerful curse worker around. A touch of his hand can transform anything—or anyone—into something else.

That was how Lila, the girl he loved, became a white cat. Cassel was tricked into thinking he killed her, when actually he tried to save her. Now that she's human again, he should be overjoyed. Trouble is, Lila's been cursed to love him, a little gift from his emotion worker mom. And if Lila's love is as phony as Cassel's made-up memories, then he can't believe anything she says or does.

When Cassel's oldest brother is murdered, the Feds recruit Cassel to help make sense of the only clue—crime-scene images of a woman in red gloves. But the mob is after Cassel too—they know how valuable he could be to them. Cassel is going to have to stay one step ahead of both sides just to survive. But where can he turn when he can't trust anyone—least of all, himself?

Love is a curse and the con is the only answer in a game too dangerous to lose.

I love the Curse Workers series: it's clever and compelling with plenty of action and a spectacular new world. Holly Black ups the ante in Red Glove with a plot as quick and twisty as ever.

I've mentioned this before but I am completely enamoured with the concept of this world. It's fascinating and dangerous, and I never know what's going to come next. Holly Black keeps the tightly-woven plot moving with new revelations scattered at every turn.

All of this is done with one of my favourite male characters, Cassel, as narrator. Cassel is the black sheep in a family of criminals and while he's certainly no angel himself, he does have a good heart. I've loved watching Cassel develop as a character through these two books because there are some changes that are evident in him and I always like to see character growth.

I honestly didn't know if Red Glove could out-do its predecessor but it definitely did. The mystery is back and as intense as ever, and I can't wait to see where some particular threads go in Black Heart. The ending of this book is definitely a shock, but it was nowhere near as huge for me as the first book. That being said, it still leaves me anxious Book 3 - I can't get enough of these books!

A fantastic sequel.

Cover Comments: How creepy is that red smoke coming off the glove? I love it! I think it's great that this cover continues the same pattern as the first and I like Lila's (it is her, isn't it?) expression - someone looks spooked!

The Demon's Surrender by Sarah Rees Brennan

The Demon's Surrender by Sarah Rees Brennan

(Goodreads profile)
Source: Library
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books
Release Date: June 14, 2011
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 400

The Goblin Market has always been the center of Sin’s world. But now the Market is at war with the magicians, and Sin’s place is in danger. Thrown out of the Market she loves, Sin is thrown together with brothers Nick and Alan—whom she’s always despised.

Alan has been marked by a magician and is being tortured so that the magicians can get to Nick. As Sin watches Alan struggle to protect the demon brother he loves, she begins to see him in a new light—but she and Mae are locked in a fierce rivalry over who will inherit the leadership of the Goblin Market, and a decisive battle with the Aventurine Circle is looming. Mae’s brother, Jamie, is holed up with the magicians, his loyalties in question. And Nick—well, who knows what a demon might do to save his brother? How far will Nick go to save Alan—and what will it cost them all?

The Demon's Surrender marks the conclusion of an amazing series. I've read all of them just this year and I continue to be blown away by Sarah Rees Brennan's signature plot twists and snark. While this book wasn't my favourite of the trilogy, I did very much enjoy it.

As the summary suggests, the narrator of this novel is Sin Davies, the beautiful and enticing dancer of the Market. I really enjoyed getting Sin's perspective in this book because I really feel like she became a lot more than that to me. She transforms into a real person: a determined girl that cares about her family and her future and has to work hard to get what she wants.

That being said, I did miss some of the moments from the previous two books involving Nick, Alan, Mae and Jamie. Not to say that they aren't present, because they are (some more than others), but Sin isn't really a part of the group that they form and so certain things are left behind.

One of my favourite things about this book is how much Alan there is. Now I know most fans of this series are Team Nick, but me? I like the smart, sneaky reader, Alan, and trust me when I say that he is definitely present in this one!

Just like the previous two novels, Sarah keeps the plot moving with dark, exciting twists and revelations. I've pretty much given up on guessing what's going to happen next because I end up just being surprised every single time.

If you're looking for fast-paced urban fantasty with great characters and hilarious dialogue, look no further. A must-read series!

Cover Comments: I believe my comments for the first book were something along the lines of, "NIIIICK!" so this one is going to have to be, "ALLAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAANNNN!"

Honestly though, I really like it. The colours are bright but still manage to give a fair representation of what's inside.

Clean by Amy Reed

Clean by Amy Reed

(Goodreads profile)

Source: S&S Galley Grab
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Release Date: July 19, 2011 (Already out)
Format: Hardcover 
Pages: 288

You’re probably wondering how I ended up here. I’m still wondering the same thing.
 
Olivia, Kelly, Christopher, Jason, and Eva have one thing in common: They're addicts. Addicts who have hit rock bottom and been stuck together in rehab to face their problems, face sobriety, and face themselves. None of them wants to be there. None of them wants to confront the truths about their pasts. And they certainly don’t want to share their darkest secrets and most desperate fears with a room of strangers. But they'll all have to deal with themselves and one another if they want to learn how to live. Because when you get that high, there's nowhere to go but down, down, down.

Clean is a hard book for me to review. It deals with dark subject matter and is really just an emotional ride.

I've read a fair number of stories that focus on abuse, addiction, eating disorders, etc. but I've never read one quite like Clean. This is due to the fact that there are five different perspectives to take into account: Kelly, Olivia, Jason, Christopher and Eva. The reasons for them being in rehab are all different and we get a glimpse into all of their lives, past and present. I was worried that with so many characters, they would turn into stereotypes, and at first look, it might appear that way. Believe me though when I say that this is not the case here. All of the characters felt so real and were so well-developped. None of their stories seemed too unbelievable and I needed to know that they were going to be okay when I was reading.

Stories like this one kind of rip you open from the inside, but I love that about them. They are raw, powerful, intense and moving. You feel so many emotions and want to help these characters because what they're going through is scary. It really hit me while reading this book how easy it would be for someone to get to this point given the right combination of circumstances. How hard is it to climb back up once you've hit rock bottom?

I loved the ending of this book. It is hopeful and sweet but also leaves a lot up in the air, which I think makes it a lot more realistic. All in all, a powerful, well-written novel.

Cover Comments: It's really interesting! I love the white - definitely makes me think of a rehab centre - and the pose/expression of the model (Kelly? Olivia? Eva?) is great. Is she meant to be trapped in a box? That's what it looks like to me, but it may just be a regular room. Either way, great cover.

The Day Before by Lisa Schroeder

The Day Before by Lisa Schroeder

Source: S&S Galley Grab
Publisher: Simon Pulse 
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 320

Amber’s life is spinning out of control. All she wants is to turn up the volume on her iPod until all of the demands of family and friends fade away. So she sneaks off to the beach to spend a day by herself.

Then Amber meets Cade. Their attraction is instant, and Amber can tell he’s also looking for an escape. Together they decide to share a perfect day: no pasts, no fears, no regrets.

The more time that Amber spends with Cade, the more she’s drawn to him. And the more she’s troubled by his darkness. Because Cade’s not just living in the now—he’s living each moment like it’s his last.

Hello, book that I love. I loved you... a lot. More than I expected to, in fact. Thank you for being wonderful.

The Day Before is the first novel that I've ever read in verse. I was intrigued by the concept but nervous that I wouldn't be able to get into it. I need not have worried though because Lisa's writing is gorgeous and easy to get into. I could feel the emotion and I loved the imagery - fantastic job all around.

We start off the book not really knowing much about what's going on and you can kind of just have to go with it. Soon after, bits and pieces of text start to appear that unveil the mystery at hand through flashbacks. I really don't want to give anything away because half the magic of this book was just discovering it along the way but, guys, it broke my heart. I can fully appreciate why Amber needs to head down to the beach to just clear her head and enjoy the sunshine.

The characters, to me, were incredibly likeable. There was just something about them that I can't quite put my finger on that made me root for them, despite the fact that I had no idea why I needed to be cheering them on. Both Amber and Cade are struggling with something deep yet they're so real and relatable. Amber is a quirky drummer with a love for jelly beans and Cade is a charming guy that likes jellyfish and good movies.

The overall feeling from this book is just about two teenagers looking for an escape from their lives. Just one day, the last day, where they can experience freedom and love and hope. A spectacular novel.

Cover Comments: My neck hurts from craning my head. Seriously though, I really like this cover. The colours are vibrant and I can really imagine Amber just lying there... thinking... about Ican'ttellyousorrygoreadthebook.  

Between Here and Forever by Elizabeth Scott

Between Here and Forever by Elizabeth Scott

Source: Simon & Schuster Galley Grab
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Format: eARC
Pages: 256

Abby accepted that she can’t measure up to her beautiful, magnetic sister Tess a long time ago, and knows exactly what she is: Second best. Invisible.

Until the accident.

Now Tess is in a coma, and Abby’s life is on hold. It may have been hard living with Tess, but it's nothing compared to living without her.

She's got a plan to bring Tess back though, involving the gorgeous and mysterious Eli, but then Abby learns something about Tess, something that was always there, but that she’d never seen.

Abby is about to find out that truth isn't always what you think it is, and that life holds more than she ever thought it could...

This was my first Elizabeth Scott novel, and after reading it, I can wholeheartedly say that I'm eager to read another.

Between Here and Forever tells the story of a girl with rock bottom self-esteem put into a difficult situation that she tries her very hardest to change. It is unique, haunting and touches on a lot of tough topics.

Abby... is a difficult main character to love. This girl literally has no sense of self-worth and spends a lot of time comparing herself to her older sister, Tess, who to her is like perfection personified. Just when I thought her character was going to build a little confidence, the notion was knocked down immediately. It was scary for me to read about Abby because I do know people like her. It's terrifying for me to believe that people could think that lowly of themselves, but there are those that do just as much as Abby.

In terms of the writing, I really liked it. There is some quality that I just can't put my finger on that made me want to keep reading. It was a great combination of dialogue and description - something that can be difficult to balance.

The characters in this story were so diverse. I'm talking personality, race, sexuality... you name it. There were multiple issues looked at and I really appreciated that aspect of the story. It* makes for a story that sticks out in my mind and stays close to my heart. I appreciate my diversity in YA.

Overall, I think Between Here and Forever was a really great book. Act now and there may or may not be a hot boy in the deal - read and find out!**

*Yes, that's right - IT. Spoilerspoilerspoiler if I elaborate.  
**Okay, you caught me. There is a hot boy.

Cover Comments: I like it. My brain hurts too much right now to decode the symbolism behind the flower but whatever it is, I'm sure it's brilliant and meaningful. Unless it's just a pretty flower, in which case I would have gone with a blue one because clearly, blue flowers are magnificently more attractive than yellow ones. Yes, I'm tired. Yes, I need to sleep. Good night.

Haven by Kristi Cook

Haven by Kristi Cook

Source: Simon & Schuster Pulse It Program
Publisher: Simon Pulse (Simon & Schuster)
ISBN: 978-1-4424-0760-2
Pages: 401

DESTINY BROUGHT THEM TOGETHER. NOW IT WILL TEAR THEM APART.

Violet doesn't understand why she feels drawn to the Winterhaven School. She just know it's the right place for her. When she discovers the school's secret, it all makes sense: Everyone at Winterhaven has psychic gifts. For the first time in her life Violet doesn't have to hide her visions. She's always seen them as a curse, but now she can hone her ability and try to control it.

But she's thrown completely off balance when she meets the most alluring - and most mysterious - boy in school. She's never connected with anyone the way she does with Aidan, and the intensity takes them both by surprise. But as their relationship deepens, she begins to have visions of Aidan's death - and sees that she's the one who's fated to kill him. 

Violet's never been able to prevent her visions from coming true. But this time she'll do whatever it takes... even if it means sacrificing herself for the boy she loves.

Haven had everything I was hoping for: an authentic cast of characters, a wonderful boarding school and just a light, fun storyline with touches of mystery.

I really loved the setting of this book. There was a wide cast of characters and I think it worked really well for the story to have it set in a boarding school away from parental influence. It just gives the characters a closer feel when they're all living in the same building.

The Winterhaven gang was fun to read about. Kristi Cook is able to make them sound like real teenagers and while it did get a little confusing in the beginning, I think the characters all had pretty distinct personalities that you can differentiate between in a group setting. Can I just say... You know that Aidan effect you were talking about, Kristi? Yeah, it can apparently be transmitted through text as well. Can I have an Aidan, please?

Even though I guessed a lot of the twists in the book early on, it didn't take away from the overall experience. There was definitely quite a mood shift from the beginning of the book to the end but it was done subtly. Haven is a book with a fun atmosphere that, for the most part, isn't too heavy but isn't all daisies and sunshine either. Anyone looking for a great story with a magical, boarding school adventure should definitely check this one out!

Cover Comments: I like the colour scheme of this cover. I think it matches the book really well and I suppose the books represent the boarding/high school experience. I have no idea what that butterfly is for (am I missing something?) but I do like butterflies - they're pretty! :)   

Wither by Lauren DeStefano

Wither by Lauren DeStefano

Source: Simon and Schuster Pulse It Program
Publisher: Simon and Schuter BFYR 
ISBN: 978-1-4424-0905-7
Pages: 358

What if you knew exactly when you would die?

Thanks to modern science, every human being has become a ticking genetic time bomb—males only live to age twenty-five, and females only live to age twenty. In this bleak landscape, young girls are kidnapped and forced into polygamous marriages to keep the population from dying out.

When sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery is taken by the Gatherers to become a bride, she enters a world of wealth and privilege. Despite her husband Linden's genuine love for her, and a tenuous trust among her sister wives, Rhine has one purpose: to escape—to find her twin brother and go home.

But Rhine has more to contend with than losing her freedom. Linden's eccentric father is bent on finding an antidote to the genetic virus that is getting closer to taking his son, even if it means collecting corpses in order to test his experiments. With the help of Gabriel, a servant Rhine is growing dangerously attracted to, Rhine attempts to break free, in the limted time she has left.

After all the hype surrounding Wither, I was scared it wouldn't live up to my expectations. I shouldn't have! My hopes for the book were surpassed as I delved into this stunning debut novel.

The book wastes no time in getting to the heart of the story and my heart was pounding from the first page alone. Although the book isn't filled with action, the enchanting world and characters more than make up for it.

From the minute I was introduced to Rhine, the main character, I knew that she wasn't going to be your typical damsel in distress. Despite being in one of the toughest situations I've ever read about, she maintains strong and keeps her head throughout the novel. She isn't under any false illusions about what's happening around her and is smart enough to strategically plan out her future. It was refreshing to read about a character that wasn't naive and got themself pulled into countless misfortunes because of their own stupidity. Rhine is a character that knows what she wants and does what she has to in order to get it! 

Gabriel, the servant that attends to Rhine, was sweet and thoughtful. I really enjoyed his character and I found myself rooting for him as Rhine got more and more attached. I liked the contrast between the two sister wives, Jenna and Cecily. With both the hardened and innocent wives, it is easy to see why they are who they are and how they came to be that way. Housemaster Vaughn, or, in other words, Linden's father, was beyond creepy. My hat goes off to DeStefano for making a villain that made me shiver everytime he spoke. Finally, we have Linden, whom I fully expected to hate. The problem, if you want to call it that, is that I didn't. He was sheltered from the world and just genuinely seemed clueless about what was going on - I actually found it rather endearing. I want him to have a happy ending. After all, it's not his fault his father is an absolute creep!

The last thing that I want to talk about is the marvellous world Lauren created. It's dark, frightening, realistic and I loved it. From the elaborate parties that were hosted to the homeless orphans trying to steal food, everything was beautifully crafted. I can't wait to explore more of this universe in the next two books of the trilogy.

Lauren DeStefano is definitely an author to watch out for. For those of you who haven't read Wither yet, I highly recommend it. For those that have, I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did!

Cover Comments: This cover is absolutely gorgeous! I'll need to purchase a hardcopy sometime so that I can add it to my collection.

City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare

City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare

Source: Purchased
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books
ISBN: 978-1-4424-0354-3
Pages: 424

The Mortal War is over, and Clary Fray is back home in New York, excited about all the possibilities before her. She's training to become a Shadowhunter and to use her unique power. Her mother is getting married to the love of her life. Downworlders and Shadowhunters are at peace at last. And - most of all - Clary can finally call Jace her boyfriend.

But nothing comes without a price.

Someone is murdering the Shadowhunters who used to be in Valentine's Circle, provoking tensions between Downworlders and Shadowhunters that could lead to a second bloody war. Clary's best friend, Simon, can't help her. His mother just found out that he's a vampire and now he's homeless. Everywhere he turns, someone wants him on their side - along with the power of the curse that's wrecking his life. And they're willing to do anything to get what they want. At the same time he's dating two beautiful, dangerous girls - neither of whom knows about the other.

When Jace begins to pull away from Clary without explaining why, she is forced to delve into the heart of a mystery whose solution reveals her worst nightmare: She herself has set in motion a terrible chain of events that could lead to her losing everything she loves. Even Jace.

Love. Blood. Betrayal. Revenge. The stakes are higher than ever in City of Fallen Angels. 

Okay, so I'm going to try my very hardest to get through this review without squealing, clapping or displaying any other enthusiastic kind of excitement. City of Fallen Angels was that good.

It feels like so long ago that I read City of Glass but I was sucked back into the world of Shadowhunters and Downworlders from page one of this sequel with no problems. Clare blends together the elements of romance, suspense, action and humour effortlessly. Her writing is delightfully descriptive and the use of imagery is as stunning as before.

In City of Fallen Angels, the spotlight shifts slightly off Clary and refocuses on Simon Lewis, newly-made vampire. I thought it was fascinating to read from Simon's point of view as he went through the inner and outer struggles of being a vampire, as well as a Daylighter. His character was really pieced together nicely and it was a pleasure to read from his perspective. In addition to Simon, there are also lots of chapters focusing on other characters such as Jace and Clary. All of these flow together nicely and nothing written by Clare seems forced.

One thing that I doubt anyone can help but love about this series is the boys. They're all just so... crush-worthy. Especially Jace - you have to love Jace. City of Fallen Angels, I'm happy to say, also introduces a new boy but I'll let you decide if he's worthy enough to be added to your fictional crush list or not. Aside from the completely shallow reasons I have for loving Cassandra's male (and female) characters, I do think that they all have a solid background and personality, leaving characters with a ring of authenticity. A character that I particularly enjoyed in this novel was Alec, whom we got to see a new side of.* I hope to see much more of him and Magnus in future books.

Another tremendous installment of The Mortal Instruments series. If you haven't picked this series up yet, move it to the top of your list because it's definitely something you don't want to miss.

Cover Comments: I really think that all of Cassandra Clare's covers are gorgeous - this one is no exception. They're some of my all-time favourites with the detailing, colours and almost iridescent light that shines from the runes. Beautiful!

* In an attempt to avoid spoilers, I tried to be vague in my review - I don't know if I succeeded or not! If you have read the book and want to chat with me about it, please don't hesitate to e-mail me (thestoryqueen(at)hotmail(dot)com). I can't get enough of talking about this book with others that have read it so I would be thrilled to see a message from you!