tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28977778127873335182024-03-16T00:08:45.804-07:00Bloody BookaholicA kick-ass young adult book blog.Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.comBlogger1369125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2897777812787333518.post-46816617786435816692015-06-18T09:36:00.001-07:002015-06-18T09:36:56.250-07:00For the Sake of Reading; New Blog in Town! Bloody Bookaholic is MOVING.<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">So BB is no more; </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Long live <span style="color: red;">For the Sake of Reading</span>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Posts have been moved over to the new site; </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">which is through wordpress.</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">New link:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">forthesakeofreading.com</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have posted on BB since my high school years, going on 6-7 years now. And it is time for a change. I have loved posting here about all the latest news on the YA world, the reviews, the authors... and much will stay the same over at <span style="color: red;">For the Sake of Reading</span>. Only there will be more posts, from a variety of voices.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's been swell Blogger, love you guys.</span></div>
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Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2897777812787333518.post-87333668005193610922015-05-05T18:12:00.002-07:002015-05-05T18:12:27.912-07:00YA Review: Crimson Bound by Rosamund Hodge<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img alt="Crimson Bound" height="320" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1413217438l/21570318.jpg" width="211" /></div>
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<strong>T</strong>itle: Crimson Bound<br />
<strong>A</strong>uthor: Rosamund Hodge<br />
<strong>S</strong>eries: n/a<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook #: 1<br />
<strong>P</strong>ages: 448<br />
<strong>R</strong>eading <strong>L</strong>evel: YA<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook <strong>R</strong>ating: <img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/Blog%20Design/5Hearts.jpg" /><br />
<strong>G</strong>oodreads <strong>R</strong>ating: 3.89<br />
<strong>P</strong>ublished: May 5th, 2015<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
When Rachelle was fifteen she was good—apprenticed to her aunt and in training to protect her village from dark magic. But she was also reckless— straying from the forest path in search of a way to free her world from the threat of eternal darkness. After an illicit meeting goes dreadfully wrong, Rachelle is forced to make a terrible choice that binds her to the very evil she had hoped to defeat.<br />
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Three years later, Rachelle has given her life to serving the realm, fighting deadly creatures in an effort to atone. When the king orders her to guard his son Armand—the man she hates most—Rachelle forces Armand to help her find the legendary sword that might save their world. As the two become unexpected allies, they uncover far-reaching conspiracies, hidden magic, and a love that may be their undoing. In a palace built on unbelievable wealth and dangerous secrets, can Rachelle discover the truth and stop the fall of endless night?<br />
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Inspired by the classic fairy tale Little Red Riding Hood, Crimson Bound is an exhilarating tale of darkness, love, and redemption.</blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>T</strong>aschima's <strong>POV</strong>:</span><br />
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<b>"I am Rachelle Brinon. I didn't listen to my aunt when she told me to stay on the path and save my own life. Damned if I'll listen to the Forest now."</b><br />
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<img alt="description" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/GIFS/ibxdgxJleVl8JU_zpsm1ujndpy.gif" height="215" width="375" /></div>
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I am a little bit in awe with Crimson Bound. I've read a lot of books lately, but none were able to grab my attention and keep me captivated quite as Crimson Bound. Who ever thought a retelling of Red Riding Hood could be as unique and engrossing? I certainly didn't, which makes me so much happier that this book blindsided me. The folklore, the characters, the crimes and the repentance... It all woven together into this perfect grimm fairy tale retelling where nothing is as it seems; there are no perfect paths to take and no perfect endings. I would recommend putting Crimson Bound high up on your reading list, because it is one of the best retellings out there. Hands down.<br />
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<b>"A forestborn puts a mark on a human," she said. "The human must kill somebody in three days or die. If he kills somebody, he becomes a bloodhound, which means the power of the Forest is growing in him, until finally he gives up the last of his human heart and becomes a forestborn."</b><br />
<br />
--different chapter--<br />
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<b>"She killed. She was <i>exactly</i> like me. And like her, I will die for my sins and go to hell. But at least I'm not fool enough to think that bloodbound won't bring death all around them."</b><br />
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The folklore created in Crimson Bound is dark and enchanting. I think the closest magical creature to a foretsborn is a very twisted Fae. They have the Wild Hunt, they play with humans and take them when they please. They serve a an entity that they want to bring back from the brink of death so this entity can swallow the sun and the moon and they can live in eternal darkness, hunting their human prey. And our heroine is in the beginning stages of becoming one of these heartless creatures. That just might mess with a girl's head. In between Rachelle's story you get small snippets of the origin story of the one that once was able to defeat the Devourer, how she managed to do so, etc. It is a very good story, and a fantastic way to show the reader the origin story without have to info dump in the middle of a chapter.<br />
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<b>"Rachelle wanted to sew the world back to safety, even if she must use her own bones for needles."</b><br />
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First off let me state that I loved Rachelle. She is so twisted up inside; she wants to be a hero but ends up becoming a murderer. Now she spends her days saving people from the nightmares that sprout from the Great Forest in order to repent. She killed the most important person in her life in order to live and she can't forgive herself. She spends the whole novel repenting and just being generally awesome by putting everybody before herself, sacrificing everything so the world can have another day full of light. She is not whiny (no "woeh is me" here) she just knows what she did and what she is worth, and damn whoever stands in her way of achieving her goals. She also has a soft spot for the one friend she has in the world (Amelie), and the one guy who might change shed light into her dark and twisty world.<br />
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<b>"How last winter, a forestborn had marked him. How he had refused to kill, and the mark remained black on his skin, yet he was alive to this day.</b><br />
How, in a fury, the forestborn had cut off his hands."<br />
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Said guy is never described as being otherworldly beautiful. First time she seems him she calls him downright average looking; his most distinctive feature being his silver fake hands. Armand Vareilles is not the sum of his looks, but the sum of his intentions and wit. He is funny and understanding and will make you smile. He just steals your heart right out of your chest, right after giving you a witty retort and a half smile.<br />
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Did I mention it is set in a pseudo French court? This excited me. While the names are hard to remember I did enjoy whatever small glimpse we could get into French court life (which doesn't seem that must different from the English really, it would have been nice if the title had submerged itself a little more into the French life style but I will take what I can get. After all, it is not a historical novel per se.)<br />
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Overall, I loved it all. I am so picking up Rosamund Hodge's debut novel Cruel Beauty next! Definitely recommend, on all counts.<br />
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<img alt="The Mime Order (The Bone Season, #2)" height="320" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1421696237l/17901125.jpg" width="210" /></div>
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<strong>T</strong>itle: The Mime Order<br />
<strong>A</strong>uthor: Samantha Shannon<br />
<strong>S</strong>eries: The Bone Season<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook #: 2<br />
<strong>P</strong>ages: 510<br />
<strong>R</strong>eading <strong>L</strong>evel: Adult<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook <strong>R</strong>ating: <img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/Blog%20Design/5Hearts.jpg" /><br />
<strong>G</strong>oodreads <strong>R</strong>ating: 4.24<br />
<strong>P</strong>ublished: January 27th, 2015<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Paige Mahoney has escaped the brutal prison camp of Sheol I, but her problems have only just begun: many of the survivors are missing and she is the most wanted person in London...<br />
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As Scion turns its all-seeing eye on the dreamwalker, the mime-lords and mime-queens of the city's gangs are invited to a rare meeting of the Unnatural Assembly. Jaxon Hall and his Seven Seals prepare to take centre stage, but there are bitter fault lines running through the clairvoyant community and dark secrets around every corner. Then the Rephaim begin crawling out from the shadows. But where is Warden? Paige must keep moving, from Seven Dials to Grub Street to the secret catacombs of Camden, until the fate of the underworld can be decided.</blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>T</strong>aschima's <strong>POV</strong>:</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"<i>Until next time, Paige Mahoney.</i><br />Next time would be now."</b></blockquote>
I went through the Mime Order as slowly as I could because I knew that once it was over I would be devastated. And I was, because I have to wait a WHOLE other year in order to read the sequel. The Bone Season was fantastic, but if anything Mime Order is twice as complicated and even better for it. A lot of the decisions Paige has to take in this novel... Well, I don't envy the girl. I am so very glad we still have five more titles in the series! The possibilities are endless.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"He wanted me to forget. The Rephaim were dangerous and they were out there, lying in wait, and I seemed to be the only one who gave a damn about it."</b></blockquote>
We picked up right where we left off on The Bone Season. Paige managed to raise a rebellion and escape Scion with some of her fellow voyants. Once in London she has to make a choice, go back to Jaxon and act as his mollisher or try to make it on her own. Paige is pretty much stuck between a shit situation and a shittier one still. She has to play her cards right if she wants to accomplish her goals, and fight back. No one will listen to her because of how little power she possesses, so her only option is to find a way to make herself heard. Even if she has to go against people she has known and loved for the better part of her life.<br />
<br />
Sometimes a lot of information was provided, and I just felt as confused as Paige did. It turns out Paige doesn't know just HOW corrupted her city is, but soon enough she will learn just how fucked up her syndicate is. Sometimes the war between Rephaim and humans seems too huge, it is like humans going agaisnt Kryptonians, and the only thing they have to defend themselves is a pretty flower. The flower is their kryptonite. Mass produce that shit and then they wont have an issue.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"His eyes were growing brighter. They flooded me with the stranger memories of my imprisonment. A gramophone's black-listed music, telling lovers' stories to the gloom. A butterfly held out inside caged fingers. His lips on mine in the Guildhall, hands gliding over my hips, my waist."</b></blockquote>
I love the romance in The Mime Order, the intimate moments are so few and far between. You really get the sense that in the next five books anything could happen between Paige and Warden, I wouldn't put it past Samantha Shannon to kill him off (or even both of them). He is immortal, and she is not. This is not a vampire situation, where Paige can just turn and have her HEA. You get the real sense that things might not actually turn out for the best with them, they know it, and yet they are still going for it. Eeeks!!<br />
<br />
When you get past the halfway mark in the book so many things are happening that it is almost impossible to put down the book. A lot of things change, friends become enemies, and all goes to shit. It is intense, and the fight scene by the very end kept me on the edge of my seat (much like when Paige pulled off the rebellion). The book is a solid 500 pages of awesomeness.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"Isn't hope just another form of naivete?"</b><b>"Hope is the lifeblood of revolution. Without it, we are nothing but ash, waiting for the wind to take us."</b></blockquote>
I do not quite know what will happen in the third book, which is something Samantha Shannon probably worked hard to do. Anything can happen, everyone is in danger, and the stakes will be higher than ever. This is the kind of author you pay the full price of a hard back for on the first release day. Without discounts. Definite must read.<br />
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ENDING: [spoiler] <span style="color: white;">The guy with the gloves has GOT to be Jaxon, I bet everything it is him. I believe he is one of the two people who managed to escape the colony 20 years back and that is why he didnt want to get involved with the Rephaim, also the reason why he spent almost the whole book drunk off his ass.</span>[/spoiler]<br />
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PS; There are a LOT of characters in The Mime Order, a lot of leaders and voyants, and sometimes I just couldn't remember who this or that person was. It would have been nice if the glossary would have included a list of the most important characters from the last book, just as a reminder. I found that the glossary wasn't really helpful in that when I actually needed to look for something I forgot it wasn't provided. A hierarchy of the people was provided, but not who they were and what role they played. For a series with as many characters as this one (and side characters, etc) a list with description would help (much like the Black Dagger Brotherhood series does); who are they, what is their power, etc.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKpvwt81ABhBHwx1gYQOu6yDYW4wfsUbU_igjD3RNfKDpTRhF-m-rpwO17Cn0LsndEfmMmN-8wvzyzl6tMbfzz9PUSy7wd1srRZGy5iNuTAqYPb-5ukQLKB87nmwwVrcua0rZHK-H-MI/s1600/10991156_864450576941134_1884110361953038877_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKpvwt81ABhBHwx1gYQOu6yDYW4wfsUbU_igjD3RNfKDpTRhF-m-rpwO17Cn0LsndEfmMmN-8wvzyzl6tMbfzz9PUSy7wd1srRZGy5iNuTAqYPb-5ukQLKB87nmwwVrcua0rZHK-H-MI/s1600/10991156_864450576941134_1884110361953038877_n.jpg" height="235" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here are four (4!) titles that are going to be released within the next week:<br />
<h3>
If you are looking for sequels...</h3>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22449285-the-remedy?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="The Remedy (The Program, #0.5)" height="320" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1416506230l/22449285.jpg" width="213" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22836563-invisible-monsters?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Invisible Monsters (Talker 25, #2)" height="320" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1414784588l/22836563.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
THE REMEDY! Such a gorgeous cover. The Remedy is the full fledged prequel novel to <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11366397-the-program" target="_blank">The Program</a>, the heart wrecking tale of a world that is trying to deal with a suicide epidemic. It might sound a little too tragic, but it is totally worth it. The author is such a great writer, it hits you right in the feels.</div>
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</div>
<h3>
If you are looking for a stand alone title...</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18530518-finding-paris?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Finding Paris" height="320" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1412343121l/18530518.jpg" width="209" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22836562-every-last-promise?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Every Last Promise" height="320" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1413379614l/22836562.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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Contemporary titles for days! Not my cup of tea, but definitely worth a read if you are into contemporary.</div>
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<h3>
If you are looking to start a brand new series...</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
N/A; Better luck next week!</div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Currently Reading: </h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21522102-the-replaced" target="_blank"><img alt="The Replaced (The Taking, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1417168585l/21522102.jpg" width="132" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17928233-tether" target="_blank"><img alt="Tether (Many-Worlds, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1402963852l/17928233.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Recently Read: </h4>
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<a href="http://bloodybookaholic.blogspot.com/2015/04/ya-review-rebel-belle-rebel-belle-1-by.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Rebel Belle (Rebel Belle, #1)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1371650817l/8475505.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
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For even MORE upcoming releases please visit my Pinterest at: <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/TaschimaCullen/" target="_blank">TaschimaCullen.</a><br />
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In it I have individual boards dedicated to YA Releases from 2014- onward by month of release. I update it daily :)<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm2E-vfU-i0MOJh2MhWu2YvSIJApCnEknzO02fN6sJPbNj0N33HcnvbYdimHCUQuTnNLZhK0If_c2robJdzjEjpVVtc_i8TnvqHeO2XxHdODaftkhQsvmsqVGn663yDFJbHdArU4dMSsYN/s1600/New+Signature.jpg" /></div>
Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2897777812787333518.post-9455877395195986042015-04-16T06:24:00.000-07:002015-04-16T06:24:00.024-07:00YA Review: Rebel Belle (Rebel Belle #1) by Rachel Hawkins<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img alt="Rebel Belle (Rebel Belle, #1)" height="320" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1371650817l/8475505.jpg" width="212" /></div>
<br />
<strong>T</strong>itle: Rebel Belle<br />
<strong>A</strong>uthor: Rachel Hawkins<br />
<strong>S</strong>eries: Rebel Belle<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook #: 1<br />
<strong>P</strong>ages: 352<br />
<strong>R</strong>eading <strong>L</strong>evel: YA<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook <strong>R</strong>ating: <a href="http://www.blogger.com/rearrange?blogID=2897777812787333518&action=editWidget&sectionId=sidebar&widgetType=null&widgetId=Text2"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/Blog%20Design/4Hearts.jpg" /></a><br />
<strong>G</strong>oodreads <strong>R</strong>ating: 3.96<br />
<strong>P</strong>ublished: April 8th, 2014<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Harper Price, peerless Southern belle, was born ready for a Homecoming tiara. But after a strange run-in at the dance imbues her with incredible abilities, Harper's destiny takes a turn for the seriously weird. She becomes a Paladin, one of an ancient line of guardians with agility, super strength and lethal fighting instincts. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Just when life can't get any more disastrously crazy, Harper finds out who she's charged to protect: David Stark, school reporter, subject of a mysterious prophecy and possibly Harper's least favorite person. But things get complicated when Harper starts falling for him—and discovers that David's own fate could very well be to destroy Earth. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
With snappy banter, cotillion dresses, non-stop action and a touch of magic, this new young adult series from bestseller Rachel Hawkins is going to make y'all beg for more.</blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>T</strong>aschima's <strong>POV</strong>:</span><br />
<b></b><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"So, Harper Jane Price. Are you ready to accept your destiny?"<br />I withdrew my hand. "No, thank you."</b></blockquote>
<br />
<br />
I don't know about Legally Blonde meets Terminator, but it is definitively Legally Blonde meets Buffy which kicks so much ass I can't even contain my giddiness for the sequel. I read it in like a day, it is one of <i>those</i> books.<br />
<b></b><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"Five minutes ago my main concern had been whether Salmon Fantasy would clash with my pink dress. Now I was cradling a dying man on the bathroom floor while some crazy person pounded on the door."</b></blockquote>
<br />
<br />
Harper, or Per as her friends call her, is definitely a different sort of heroine. She is confident, straight A student, a little extra controlling, fashionable, the kind of girl who aims to be the best of the best in every category. She is a lot self centered, and this is something she battles with throughout the novel. However, she is also very likable. The author keeps a balance in her character that keeps her on this side of the line before she crosses into bitchy territory. I had so much fun reading from her POV! She tries to fight her "destiny" with all she's got, but she also can't just look away when someone clearly needs help (whether it be bodily defending someone, or giving them a wake up call on their fashion choices). She is the perfect blend of sugar, spice, and everything nice, which is why I loved her.<br />
<br />
There is a lot of character development in this book. At the beginning I thought the book was going to be set in another decade, but no it is set in the 21st century. They discuss throughout the title various southern traditions, how outdated some people find them and how others cling to them for dear life. I really liked the world development because even though it was set in our time the author really took extra care to create that southern flare, so much so that I felt like I had dived right into the book and landed smack dab in the South.<br />
<br />
I also enjoyed Per's relationships. She is a committed friend, and while she has to hide things from her best friend she certainly takes the time to make her feel included and cared for. At the beginning of the title Per has a boyfriend, the most popular boy in school of course, but as the title progress you get to see how strained their relationship becomes due to Per having to hide so much of herself from him. Again, it is written just right.<br />
<br />
David Stark, the boy Per has to protect, is not your typical male romantic lead. He is not a bad boy, he is a reporter who keeps poking fun at Per and all she does. He is charming, but not a charmer. I get the feel he is the boy who likes to keep to the sidelines, in his hipster glasses, observing and occasionally wondering what is wrong with the universe. His relationship with Per is love/hate, which is why it is so difficult for her when she finds out she has to protect HIM.<br />
<br />
The first chapter kicks ass, a great beginning to a fun lovable read. While I do not like the cover for Miss Mayhem I shall buy the book as soon as I get the chance and start reading it. This is a series that is too good to pass up.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm2E-vfU-i0MOJh2MhWu2YvSIJApCnEknzO02fN6sJPbNj0N33HcnvbYdimHCUQuTnNLZhK0If_c2robJdzjEjpVVtc_i8TnvqHeO2XxHdODaftkhQsvmsqVGn663yDFJbHdArU4dMSsYN/s1600/New+Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm2E-vfU-i0MOJh2MhWu2YvSIJApCnEknzO02fN6sJPbNj0N33HcnvbYdimHCUQuTnNLZhK0If_c2robJdzjEjpVVtc_i8TnvqHeO2XxHdODaftkhQsvmsqVGn663yDFJbHdArU4dMSsYN/s1600/New+Signature.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKpvwt81ABhBHwx1gYQOu6yDYW4wfsUbU_igjD3RNfKDpTRhF-m-rpwO17Cn0LsndEfmMmN-8wvzyzl6tMbfzz9PUSy7wd1srRZGy5iNuTAqYPb-5ukQLKB87nmwwVrcua0rZHK-H-MI/s1600/10991156_864450576941134_1884110361953038877_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKpvwt81ABhBHwx1gYQOu6yDYW4wfsUbU_igjD3RNfKDpTRhF-m-rpwO17Cn0LsndEfmMmN-8wvzyzl6tMbfzz9PUSy7wd1srRZGy5iNuTAqYPb-5ukQLKB87nmwwVrcua0rZHK-H-MI/s1600/10991156_864450576941134_1884110361953038877_n.jpg" height="235" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Here are four (3!) titles that are going to be released within the next week:<br />
<h3>
If you are looking for sequels...</h3>
<div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15711420-forged?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Forged (Taken, #3)" height="320" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1403620133l/15711420.jpg" width="211" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21473811-the-wondrous-and-the-wicked" target="_blank"><img alt="The Wondrous and the Wicked (The Dispossessed, #3)" height="320" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1404235082l/21473811.jpg" width="203" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I love the Taken series covers, they are always so cool looking with complementary colors! I also enjoy reading the series so that is a definite plus. I don't exactly have the same feelings towards The Wondrous and the Wicked cover, but I've heard nothing but good things about the series overall so it is on my "To-Do" list.</div>
<h3>
If you are looking for a stand alone title...</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23203174-where-the-staircase-ends?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Where the Staircase Ends" height="320" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1410811042l/23203174.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A girl is betrayed by her best friend, and she must uncover the truth to said betrayal by looking through her past memories. Also, the MC is dead and has to climb the stairway to heaven, which is why she gets to look at all her past memories. Contemporary, for fans of Lauren Oliver's debut novel <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6482837-before-i-fall?ac=1" target="_blank">Before I Fall</a>.</div>
</div>
<h3>
If you are looking to start a brand new series...</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
N/A; Better luck next week!</div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Currently Reading: </h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12799420-prudence" target="_blank"><img alt="Prudence (The Custard Protocol, #1)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1393521574l/12799420.jpg" width="133" /></a><br />
<br />
I'm only 20 pages in and I already love Prudence and Prim as young adults!</div>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Recently Read: </h4>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://bloodybookaholic.blogspot.com/2015/04/ya-review-sea-of-shadows-age-of-legends.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Sea of Shadows (Age of Legends, #1)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1371848637l/17236366.jpg" width="133" /></a> <a href="http://bloodybookaholic.blogspot.com/2015/04/ya-review-orphan-queen-orphan-queen-1.html" target="_blank"><img alt="The Orphan Queen (The Orphan Queen, #1)" height="200" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1402927856l/18081228.jpg" width="131" /></a> <a href="http://bloodybookaholic.blogspot.com/2015/04/ya-review-solitaire-by-alice-oseman.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Solitaire" height="200" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1403739806l/22588585.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<br />
For even MORE upcoming releases please visit my Pinterest at: <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/TaschimaCullen/" target="_blank">TaschimaCullen.</a><br />
<br />
In it I have individual boards dedicated to YA Releases from 2014- onward by month of release. I update it daily :)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm2E-vfU-i0MOJh2MhWu2YvSIJApCnEknzO02fN6sJPbNj0N33HcnvbYdimHCUQuTnNLZhK0If_c2robJdzjEjpVVtc_i8TnvqHeO2XxHdODaftkhQsvmsqVGn663yDFJbHdArU4dMSsYN/s1600/New+Signature.jpg" /></div>
Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2897777812787333518.post-46764326187342900152015-04-10T23:48:00.006-07:002015-04-10T23:48:55.721-07:00YA Review: Sea of Shadows (Age of Legends #1) by Kelley Armstrong<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img alt="Sea of Shadows (Age of Legends, #1)" height="320" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1371848637l/17236366.jpg" width="213" /></div>
<br />
<strong>T</strong>itle: Sea of Shadows<br />
<strong>A</strong>uthor: Kelley Armstrong<br />
<strong>S</strong>eries: Age of Legends<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook #: 1<br />
<strong>P</strong>ages: 406<br />
<strong>R</strong>eading <strong>L</strong>evel: YA<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook <strong>R</strong>ating: <a href="http://www.blogger.com/rearrange?blogID=2897777812787333518&action=editWidget&sectionId=sidebar&widgetType=null&widgetId=Text2"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/Blog%20Design/5Hearts.jpg" /></a><br />
<strong>G</strong>oodreads <strong>R</strong>ating: 3.73<br />
<strong>P</strong>ublished: April 8th, 2014<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">In the Forest of the Dead, where the empire’s worst criminals are exiled, twin sisters Moria and Ashyn are charged with a dangerous task. For they are the Keeper and the Seeker, and each year they must quiet the enraged souls of the damned.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Only this year, the souls will not be quieted.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Ambushed and separated by an ancient evil, the sisters’ journey to find each other sends them far from the only home they’ve ever known. Accompanied by a stubborn imperial guard and a dashing condemned thief, the girls cross a once-empty wasteland, now filled with reawakened monsters of legend, as they travel to warn the emperor. But a terrible secret awaits them at court—one that will alter the balance of their world forever.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>T</strong>aschima's <strong>POV</strong>:</span><br />
<br />
So I guess this book can be boring for some... or not. I enjoyed it! I liked the world Kelley Armstrong built, and I didn't find the book mind numbing. I thought the characters were interesting, all of them. Both the boys and the girls. Sea of Shadows may a an acquired taste for some but I say give it a shot and KEEP READING. It is good from the beginning but it might get a bit slow towards the middle... but I am good with slow sometimes as long as it still progresses the story and/or romance, which it does.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"As I was saying, everyone comes back," Moria said. "Every Seeker. Every hound. Every volunteer. Every guard. They do their duty and they return, and all is well. You can't tell me that every Seeker has been perfect. They must make mistakes. It doesn't matter. I'm not even sure if the rituals matter at all. It is a kindness to the spirits of the damned, but would they truly rise up and attack? If it's never happened before, I'll wager it can't."<br />"Don't be blasphemous, Rya."<br />"If you don't fret, I'll not say scandalous things." Moria paused. "Which would be rather difficult, but since I'm quite certain you'll never stop fretting, I do believe I'm safe."<br />Ashyn threw her arms around her sister so abruptly that Moria let out a yip of surprise. Ashyn smiled and hugged her until that rigid steel melted and Moria embraced her, whispering, "You're ready, Ash. I know you are."</blockquote>
Moria and Ashyn sisterly relationship takes front and center during the events of Sea of Shadows. They are both special, and both uniquely their own. They complement each other, each girl making up for what the other one lacks. Moria is strong spirited and isn't afraid to make a scene and get her point across...<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Before he could finish the sentence, her blade tip was digging into the bottom of his jaw.<br />"I am the Keeper of the Forest, boy," she said. "Do you think those pretty patterns on your arms give you the right to threaten me? They do not. Even if your father was still marshal, they would not. I will take your glowers. I will take your insults. I will take your warnings that you'll abandon me by the roadside if I do not keep pace. But you will not call me a liar. And you will not threaten me."</blockquote>
... while Ashyn is more gentle, and a dreamer. She is a romantic, yet at the same time she is not naive nor an idiot. She is kind and more easy spoken than Moira, with a leveled head on her shoulders. This is a little piece of Ashyn:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"It made a romantic tale. The young rogue, cheating death, returning to his grieving lover. But in reality...Ashyn had always known that life did not resemble one of her book stories or Moria's bard tales, and yet there'd been part of her that hoped it did. The more she saw, the more she realized she was wrong. People made up those stories because it's what they wanted from their world. A place where goodness, kindness, and honor were rewarded. They were not rewarded."</blockquote>
Both voices are easy to tell apart so you will not be confused when reading since the tale is told from the two girl's POVs. Even though there is a name at the beginning of the title for which girl's turn it is to tell the tale, it is hardly ever needed. The writing is so good, and the situations are realistic yet infused with magic.<br />
<br />
The boys of the tale... both are exquisite. Gavril can be a pain, but you soon learn to understand him, as does Moria. He is also the 18 year old buy that DOESN'T act like an 18 year old buy, more like a full grown adult. Ronan is a thief, sent to the Forest of the Dead to well, die. But he escapes and helps Ashyn in her journey to find her sister as well as the rest of the community which was kidnapped. Their interactions with the sisters make the novel that much more enjoyable and interesting. Personally, I go for Gavril.<br />
<br />
So yes, I enjoyed Sea of Shadows and I am waiting very eagerly for the next one in the series.<br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm2E-vfU-i0MOJh2MhWu2YvSIJApCnEknzO02fN6sJPbNj0N33HcnvbYdimHCUQuTnNLZhK0If_c2robJdzjEjpVVtc_i8TnvqHeO2XxHdODaftkhQsvmsqVGn663yDFJbHdArU4dMSsYN/s1600/New+Signature.jpg" />Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2897777812787333518.post-85966776213933079202015-04-09T17:16:00.002-07:002015-04-09T17:16:28.210-07:00Hot YA/NA Cover Reveal: Every Last Breath (by Jennifer Armentrout) Gets a Brand New Cover... As well as the rest of the series. Hello, and welcome to the rage section. Today was supposed to be a happy day, because they released the cover of <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17455817-every-last-breath?ac=1" target="_blank">Every Last Breath</a>, the third and final installment of the Dark Elements trilogy (and one I have been eagerly waiting for). On the one hand they did release the cover of Every Last Breath, on the other hand they went trigger happy and they also decided to recreate the covers of the first two books...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="White Hot Kiss (The Dark Elements, #1)" height="320" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1377784515l/17455585.jpg" width="208" /><a href="http://www.jenniferarmentrout.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/9781460323687_whitehotkiss_ebook.jpg"><img alt="9781460323687_whitehotkiss_ebook" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-2725" src="http://www.jenniferarmentrout.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/9781460323687_whitehotkiss_ebook-196x300.jpg" height="300" width="196" /></a><br />
<br />
Original - New Cover to be released</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Stone Cold Touch (The Dark Elements, #2)" height="320" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1394110942l/17455815.jpg" width="208" /><a href="http://www.jenniferarmentrout.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/9781460330524_stonecoldtouch_ebook.jpg"><img alt="9781460330524_stonecoldtouch_ebook" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-2726" src="http://www.jenniferarmentrout.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/9781460330524_stonecoldtouch_ebook-196x300.jpg" height="300" width="196" /></a><br />
<br />
Original - New Cover to be Released<br />
<br />
Now, this is not the first time, nor the last, that something like this has happened. But I can honestly say I am extremely bummed. First of the original covers have more color to them, the new covers are super bright and only feature the male protagonist of each book (even though the series has a female main character). I just find the new covers extremely.... boring (the guys are hot sure whatevs).<br />
<br />
Also, not a fan of the font.<br />
<br />
I had gotten attached to the original covers, and I figured this far into the game there wouldn't be a cover change. I was so wrong. Here is the cover for Every Last Breath:</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17455817-every-last-breath?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="9780373211142_prd_proof_FC" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-2724" src="http://www.jenniferarmentrout.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/9780373211142_prd_proof_FC-199x300.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a><br />
<br />
Again, snooze. It didn't get me excited. I am thrilled the book is coming out, but honestly I may just buy this one in e-book version and move on with my life. Because, as you may have noticed, this new cover will not match the rest of the series I already own #BookGeekIssues<br />
<br />
...and that rubs me the wrong way. I hate when they do this, and you never quite see it coming. I don't see how someone would be attracted to the new covers without having been a Jennifer L. Armentrout fan to begin with. To each his/her own I guess.<br />
<br />
To summarize, new covers suck. Will be buying e-book, but not print copy. Don't need the clutter, don't want to see the covers clash.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm2E-vfU-i0MOJh2MhWu2YvSIJApCnEknzO02fN6sJPbNj0N33HcnvbYdimHCUQuTnNLZhK0If_c2robJdzjEjpVVtc_i8TnvqHeO2XxHdODaftkhQsvmsqVGn663yDFJbHdArU4dMSsYN/s1600/New+Signature.jpg" /></div>
</div>
Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2897777812787333518.post-51961622204406650192015-04-06T07:43:00.002-07:002015-04-06T07:43:21.917-07:00Recent YA Releases: Week of April 7th-April 13th (4 NEW Titles!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKpvwt81ABhBHwx1gYQOu6yDYW4wfsUbU_igjD3RNfKDpTRhF-m-rpwO17Cn0LsndEfmMmN-8wvzyzl6tMbfzz9PUSy7wd1srRZGy5iNuTAqYPb-5ukQLKB87nmwwVrcua0rZHK-H-MI/s1600/10991156_864450576941134_1884110361953038877_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKpvwt81ABhBHwx1gYQOu6yDYW4wfsUbU_igjD3RNfKDpTRhF-m-rpwO17Cn0LsndEfmMmN-8wvzyzl6tMbfzz9PUSy7wd1srRZGy5iNuTAqYPb-5ukQLKB87nmwwVrcua0rZHK-H-MI/s1600/10991156_864450576941134_1884110361953038877_n.jpg" height="235" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Here are four (4!) titles that are going to be released within the next week:<br />
<h3>
If you are looking for sequels...</h3>
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<div align="center">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22465605-miss-mayhem?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Miss Mayhem (Rebel Belle, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1409837879l/22465605.jpg" width="132" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21480854-empire-of-night?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Empire of Night (Age of Legends, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1403795675l/21480854.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
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I am actually currently reading <strong>Miss Mayhem</strong>, and it is as light and fun as it's first title was. I am having some issues getting acclimated to the new romantic relationship, but overall I feel like I am back on Sunnydale with a brand new gang. I have Empire of Night on my reading queue and I cannot wait to start it! Specially after that ending from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17236366-sea-of-shadows" target="_blank">Sea of Shadows</a>. Not everybody was a fan of Sea of Shadows, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/688852916?book_show_action=false" target="_blank">but I totally was</a>! I loved the characters most of all, and the world was also very dark and magical (just like the <strong>Empire of Night</strong> cover). I totally recommend both these series.<br />
<h3>
If you are looking for a stand alone title...</h3>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20320562-zeroboxer?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Zeroboxer" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1417959263l/20320562.jpg" width="129" /></a></div>
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<strong>Zeroboxer</strong> may or may not be a stand alone. Right now I have heard no plans for a sequel, but I've also heard that the ending would allow for one to come to fruition if necessary. Zeroboxer is described as a sci fi thriller, and I am all into that, and this is why I want to read it:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
As his fame grows, Carr becomes an inspirational hero on Earth, a once-great planet that’s fallen into the shadow of its more prosperous colonies. But when Carr discovers a far-reaching criminal scheme, he becomes the keeper of a devastating secret. Not only will his choices place everything he cares about in jeopardy, but they may also spill the violence from the sports arena into the solar system.</blockquote>
The Earth has fallen behind, we have prosperous colonies in the far reaches of the galaxy, conspiracy, danger, maybe space fights? Sign me up!<br />
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<h3>
If you are looking to start a brand new series...</h3>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20983351-lies-i-told?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Lies I Told" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1404495816l/20983351.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
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I actually already read <strong>Lies I Told</strong>, the story of a con family and what happens when the jig is up. I adored the easy dialogue that the main character Grace provides. I loved reading about the con and the ways that they planned to pull it off, I also loved the whole undercover side of the story. The only thing I wasn't too keen on was the romance, I just didn't feel sparks for the main romantic boy (he was way too vanilla, not interesting enough) but everything else makes up for it! Would definitely recommend (and the review will be up soon!).</div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Currently Reading: </h3>
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<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/385761524306169100/" target="_blank"><img alt="Miss Mayhem (Rebel Belle, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1409837879l/22465605.jpg" width="132" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20313195-run-to-you-part-four" target="_blank"><img alt="Run to You Part Four: Fourth Shadow" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1396116153l/20313195.jpg" width="126" /></a></div>
<h4>
Reading Queue (list of books I WISH I could read at the same time): </h4>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11324166-timeless?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Timeless (Parasol Protectorate, #5)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1327890901l/11324166.jpg" width="123" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20560137-an-ember-in-the-ashes?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="An Ember in the Ashes" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1417957944l/20560137.jpg" width="131" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21480854-empire-of-night?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Empire of Night (Age of Legends, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1403795675l/21480854.jpg" width="132" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23300435-apprentice" target="_blank"><img alt="Apprentice (The Black Mage, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1421085113l/23300435.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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For even MORE upcoming releases please visit my Pinterest at: <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/TaschimaCullen/" target="_blank">TaschimaCullen.</a><br />
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In it I have individual boards dedicated to YA Releases from 2014- onward by month of release. I update it daily :)<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm2E-vfU-i0MOJh2MhWu2YvSIJApCnEknzO02fN6sJPbNj0N33HcnvbYdimHCUQuTnNLZhK0If_c2robJdzjEjpVVtc_i8TnvqHeO2XxHdODaftkhQsvmsqVGn663yDFJbHdArU4dMSsYN/s1600/New+Signature.jpg" />Zer</div>
Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2897777812787333518.post-76829327313026844612015-04-04T17:12:00.001-07:002015-04-04T17:12:16.082-07:00YA Review: The Orphan Queen (The Orphan Queen #1) by Jodi Meadows<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img alt="The Orphan Queen (The Orphan Queen, #1)" height="320" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1402927856l/18081228.jpg" width="211" /></div>
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<strong>T</strong>itle: Orphan Queen<br />
<strong>A</strong>uthor: Jodi Meadows<br />
<strong>S</strong>eries: The Orphan Queen<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook #: 1<br />
<strong>P</strong>ages: 400<br />
<strong>R</strong>eading <strong>L</strong>evel: YA<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook <strong>R</strong>ating: <img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/Blog%20Design/4Hearts.jpg" /><br />
<strong>G</strong>oodreads <strong>R</strong>ating: 4.10<br />
<strong>P</strong>ublished: March 10th, 2015<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Wilhelmina has a hundred identities.<br />
<br />
She is a princess. When the Indigo Kingdom conquered her homeland, Wilhelmina and other orphaned children of nobility were taken to Skyvale, the Indigo Kingdom’s capital. Ten years later, they are the Ospreys, experts at stealth and theft. With them, Wilhelmina means to take back her throne.<br />
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She is a spy. Wil and her best friend, Melanie, infiltrate Skyvale Palace to study their foes. They assume the identities of nobles from a wraith-fallen kingdom, but enemies fill the palace, and Melanie’s behavior grows suspicious. With Osprey missions becoming increasingly dangerous and their leader more unstable, Wil can’t trust anyone.<br />
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She is a threat. Wraith is the toxic by-product of magic, and for a century using magic has been forbidden. Still the wraith pours across the continent, reshaping the land and animals into fresh horrors. Soon it will reach the Indigo Kingdom. Wilhelmina’s magic might be the key to stopping the wraith, but if the vigilante Black Knife discovers Wil’s magic, she will vanish like all the others<br />
<br />
Jodi Meadows introduces a vivid new fantasy full of intrigue, romance, dangerous magic, and one girl’s battle to reclaim her place in the world.</blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>T</strong>aschima's <strong>POV</strong>:</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"I was Julianna, a general, and occasionally the orphaned Princess of Aecor. I was anyone I needed to be."</b></blockquote>
I like many other bloggers received an e-copy of this title for reviewing purposes months ago, only to find out the e-copy was just an excerpt. I am glad I didn't read the excerpt because it does not do justice to the book as a whole. The first part of the Orphan Queen is the least exciting part, the part that almost feels like every single other YA fantasy title out there. After Part two is that it starts getting <i>real</i> good.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"When the Indigo Army invaded Aecor almost ten years ago, every adult living in the palace was slaughtered, and the highborn children were brought to Skyvale, the capital of the Indigo Kingdom. We escaped the orphanage a year later and named ourselves after the national animal of our conquered homeland.</b><b><br /></b><b>The Ospreys, these children, were my life. Without them, I had nothing.</b><b>But with them...</b><b><br /></b><b>With them, I would take back my kingdom."</b></blockquote>
What makes Orphan Queen special is its brand of magic, the conflict between the kingdoms (because there is no black and white easy answer, it is very complicated and everybody is a little at fault), the vigilante that takes it upon himself to cleanse the kingdom of its problems, and the one girl who is supposed to save a kingdom and a world from the plague of magic with the help of a small group of orphans.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"Regardless, they're our way into society. <i>Try</i> to be polite."<br />"I'm always polite."<br />You're </b>[Wil] <b>always eyeing people's valuables. That's hardly polite."</b></blockquote>
Wil is the orphan daughter to the King and Queen of the Aecor kingdom. When the rival kingdom attacked her home she was spared, but only because she pretended to be someone she was not. Now she is just a kid trying to survive and keep those under protection alive. Her and the Ospreys have trained in order to be formidable when trying to get their kingdom back. She goes into the rival kingdom's palace under the identity of another dead royal in order to get valuable information that might help her save her kingdom. She also harbors the secret of her magic. She commands inanimate things, tells them what to do, and they do it (like for example she would tell a rope to untie itself). She might be future queen, but she is not the leader of their group. Because of this she doesn't feel worthy of the crown and is willing to do anything in order to earn her throne. She is likable and under the circumstances a very real character. I liked her immensely, specially since she was willing to do things nobody else was in order to save not only herself and hers but the entire world. Also she has snark, and I love myself some snark.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"Magic was forbidden in the Indigo Kindgom, and Black Knife didn't care how it was used."</b></blockquote>
At the beginning Black Knife was a little too black and white on his approach. Magic is what brought forth the Wraith, the toxic by product of magic which warps whatever it takes over, so Black Knife figures everyone who even dares to use magic must be in the wrong because they are putting their individual needs before the entire world. So he bags and tags them like any other criminal. After he meets Wil, and she asks him the hard questions, he starts to realize not everyone is bad and some just use whatever tools they have at their disposal to survive. Black Knife is interesting, and kick ass, and awesome, and charming... I am a little in love with him myself. He and Wil have this connection, this spark between them, that cannot be denied, and their chemistry sizzles off the page. Also he always wears a mask so no one finds out his real identity, how very super hero of him (and hot, definitely).<br />
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I enjoyed how the writer treated the conflict between the kingdoms. Nobody is inherently evil or good, they all have their reasons for doing what they did (even though some went a little too far with their choices). There is no evil King who just WANTS to take over every single part of the world, there is no time for that with the threat of Wraith in the horizon. The only real enemy is the left over magic and what it is doing to the world. I am curious to see how this "Wraith" came to be, and I am really hoping we get answers regarding it on the next book.<br />
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Because I am totally picking up a sequel, and I sure recommend this one. If you only read the excerpt I say give it another shot, get into the story, really into it, and then it shall be worth it. Recommend for fans of <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7896527-throne-of-glass?ac=1" target="_blank">Throne of Glass</a> and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22055262-a-darker-shade-of-magic" target="_blank">A Darker Shade of Magic</a>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img alt="Solitaire" height="320" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1403739806l/22588585.jpg" width="211" /></div>
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<strong>T</strong>itle: Solitaire<br />
<strong>A</strong>uthor: Alice Oseman<br />
<strong>S</strong>eries: n/a<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook #: 1<br />
<strong>P</strong>ages: 368<br />
<strong>R</strong>eading <strong>L</strong>evel: YA<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook <strong>R</strong>ating: <img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/Blog%20Design/2Hearts.jpg" /><br />
<strong>G</strong>oodreads <strong>R</strong>ating: 3.95<br />
<strong>P</strong>ublished: March 30th, 2015<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">In case you're wondering, this is not a love story.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">My name is Tori Spring. I like to sleep and I like to blog. Last year – before all that stuff with Charlie and before I had to face the harsh realities of A-Levels and university applications and the fact that one day I really will have to start talking to people – I had friends. Things were very different, I guess, but that's all over now.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Now there's Solitaire. And Michael Holden.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">I don't know what Solitaire are trying to do, and I don't care about Michael Holden.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">I really don't.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.8000001907349px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">This incredible debut novel by outstanding young author Alice Oseman is perfect for fans of John Green, Rainbow Rowell and all unflinchingly honest writers.</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>T</strong>aschima's <strong>POV</strong>:</span><br />
<br />
**DISCLAIMER; Yes I gave this book two stars, but that doesn't mean anything. This is one of those books that is not for ME, but it is still a good book. For me it might have been an pretty fine read, but for you it might be a 4-5 star read.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"All this time, I've just been sitting around, moaning about how shit everything is, not bothering to try and make things better. I hate myself for that."</b></blockquote>
What can I say about Solitaire, other than it was figuratively a roller coaster ride. I spent the first 25% of the book bored out of my mind, just passing the time wishing the plot or whatever would move a little faster, that something interesting would happen. But then interesting things did start to happen, and I thought that would save the book, certainly give it a 3 star, but after another 25% I was bored again, and so on. Down, UP, down, UP. 50% of the book was interesting and dealt with interesting thoughts and things, the other 50% was full of teen angst and melodrama and bullshit. Is the good 50% worth it? Well, you be the judge...<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"My name is Victoria Spring. I think you should know that I made up a lot of stuff in my head and then get sad about it. I like to sleep and I like to blog. I am going to die someday."</b></blockquote>
Victoria, or Tori as she likes to refer to herself, is a huge downer. Everybody around her knows this, her best friend knows it, and even SHE knows it. This girl has some serious issues going on all around, and to be honest she almost made me want to put the book down. She is a sad girl who is all sad and alone and emo, and judges everyone around her. She thinks people are just wasting their time, going through the social motions, and she doesn't understand this. I sympathize with her on this aspect because I have often times also believed this, but still to read such pessimistic thoughts from your main character and have nothing to justify it (in the beginning) makes it hard to want to continue to read the title (specially when she just keeps repeating herself).<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"I can't think of anything to say because that is what my answer would be, really. Nothing. I am a vacuum. I am void. I am nothing."</b></blockquote>
People try to be friends with Tori, but she just pushes them away. She is flawed, she is a teenager who doesn't know any better and is dealing with some heavy issues at home. At one point things are revealed about her home life that help shine some light into why Tori is the way she is, this helped me sympathize with her because if I had gone through what she went through I may be a bit broken inside as well. I understand her stance and her character, but that doesn't mean I have to love her.<br />
<br />
One aspect I really enjoyed about Solitaire was how its characters were never stereotypical. They all have so many layers to them, it is a little baffling.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"It's weird how you see someone who smiles all the time and you assume that they are happy all the time. It's weird how someone is nice to you and you assume that they're a wholly "good person." I did not think Michael would be so serious about something, or so angry."</b></blockquote>
All the characters have something. Michael is trying to become Tori's friend, he really really tries. He is weird and doesn't fit inside a box. He is sporty, but is not that much into sports as a whole. You don't know if he is straight, or gay, or bi. He doesn't put much value to labels. He has a lot of interests, he is hyperactive, weird, some might say insane. I liked him because of this, he has many facets to his personality, he is authentic, and perfectly flawed. Even the other characters, like Becky (who is Tori's best friend) and Lucas (who is Tori's old best friend) are like that. You may want to say something particular about any of them, but then they turn around and prove you wrong.<br />
<br />
The whole "Solitaire" situation (Solitaire is this online blog that does pranks at Tori's school) gave the book a much needed distraction from Tori's ongoing self deprecating state of mind. While the mystery of "who created Solitaire?" is very easy to figure out, the reasoning behind creating Solitaire is one that makes you appreciate the book more and all its characters.<br />
<br />
Solitaire is like that indie teenage story. It kind of reminds me of The Perks of Being a Wallflower, only way more melodramatic. Tori often finds herself thinking deep thoughts about human nature, societal rules, suicide and depression. Solitaire was very well written (even though it has one of the longest run on sentences I've ever read--which I liked), has a nice eclectic cast of characters, and it is an "edgy" read. Maybe Solitaire is not my cup of tea, but that doesn't mean it can't be yours.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"As far as I am concerned, I came out of the womb spouting cynicism and wishing for rain."</b></blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKpvwt81ABhBHwx1gYQOu6yDYW4wfsUbU_igjD3RNfKDpTRhF-m-rpwO17Cn0LsndEfmMmN-8wvzyzl6tMbfzz9PUSy7wd1srRZGy5iNuTAqYPb-5ukQLKB87nmwwVrcua0rZHK-H-MI/s1600/10991156_864450576941134_1884110361953038877_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiKpvwt81ABhBHwx1gYQOu6yDYW4wfsUbU_igjD3RNfKDpTRhF-m-rpwO17Cn0LsndEfmMmN-8wvzyzl6tMbfzz9PUSy7wd1srRZGy5iNuTAqYPb-5ukQLKB87nmwwVrcua0rZHK-H-MI/s1600/10991156_864450576941134_1884110361953038877_n.jpg" height="235" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Here are nine (!) titles that are going to be released within the next week:<br />
<h3>
If you are looking for a stand alone title...</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22609201-where-sea-meets-sky?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Where Sea Meets Sky" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1415756600l/22609201.jpg" width="128" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22550839-what-waits-in-the-woods?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="What Waits in the Woods" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1403196977l/22550839.jpg" width="132" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22588585-solitaire" target="_blank"><img alt="Solitaire" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1403739806l/22588585.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<br />
I am currently reading <strong>Solitaire</strong>, and even though I found the beginning to be slow and quite mind numbing after the 25% mark it starts getting very interesting (mostly because the author finally explains why the main character is such a downer). It is about this depressing sort of girl who is living out her teenage years in a shell of her own making, not wanting to get close to people, hating everything and everyone, including herself. It is a very dark and often times depressing look at the teenage years, and then a ray of light starts to come out... I dare say the first 25% may be worth it. I am very interesting in reading <strong>Where Sea Meets Sky</strong> because it says to be a true depiction of your 20s (and I am currently going through those soo).<br />
<h3>
If you are looking for sequels...</h3>
<div>
<div align="center">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23344352-gods-of-chaos" target="_blank"><img alt="Gods of Chaos (Red Magic #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1422650314l/23344352.jpg" width="133" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20977124-sea-of-stars?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Sea of Stars (Kricket, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1417078522l/20977124.jpg" width="129" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18602341-the-wicked-will-rise?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="The Wicked Will Rise (Dorothy Must Die, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1423841142l/18602341.jpg" width="132" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22494087-king?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="King (The Dragon King Chronicles, #3)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1402961159l/22494087.jpg" width="131" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20868595-instinct?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Instinct (Chronicles of Nick, #6)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1400875715l/20868595.jpg" width="131" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22539894-etherworld?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Etherworld (Elusion, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1403125184l/22539894.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<br />
I LOVE Chronicles of Nick! Such a boy series to read, but at the same time not. It is much fun and I love how it connects to Sherrilyn's adult series. I have yet to read <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12369550-elusion" target="_blank">Elusion</a> (first book to Etherworld), <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10129062-prophecy?ac=1" target="_blank">Prophecy</a> (first book to King), or even <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18053060-dorothy-must-die?ac=1" target="_blank">Dorothy Must Die</a> (first book to The Wicked Shall Rise)(though I really need too, heard such good things). I need more hours in the day!</div>
<h3>
If you are looking to start a brand new series...</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
N/A</div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Currently Reading: </h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22588585-solitaire" target="_blank"><img alt="Solitaire" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1403739806l/22588585.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<h4>
Reading Queue (list of books I WISH I could read at the same time): </h4>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11324166-timeless?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Timeless (Parasol Protectorate, #5)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1327890901l/11324166.jpg" width="123" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20560137-an-ember-in-the-ashes?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="An Ember in the Ashes" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1417957944l/20560137.jpg" width="131" /></a> <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/385761524306169100/" target="_blank"><img alt="Miss Mayhem (Rebel Belle, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1409837879l/22465605.jpg" width="132" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21480854-empire-of-night?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Empire of Night (Age of Legends, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1403795675l/21480854.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<br />
For even MORE releases please visit my Pinterest at: <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/TaschimaCullen/" target="_blank">TaschimaCullen.</a><br />
<br />
In it I have individual boards dedicated to YA Releases from 2014- onward by month of release. I update it daily :)<br />
<br />
<div>
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Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2897777812787333518.post-89309853653922917312015-03-27T08:38:00.003-07:002015-03-27T08:38:27.537-07:00YA Review: A Wicked Thing (A Wicked Thing #1) by Rhiannon Thomas<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img alt="A Wicked Thing (A Wicked Thing, #1)" height="320" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1404899924l/22535481.jpg" width="211" /></div>
<br />
<strong>T</strong>itle: A Wicked Thing<br />
<strong>A</strong>uthor: Rhiannon Thomas<br />
<strong>S</strong>eries: A Wicked Thing<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook #: 1<br />
<strong>P</strong>ages: 337<br />
<strong>R</strong>eading <strong>L</strong>evel: YA<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook <strong>R</strong>ating: <img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/Blog%20Design/3Hearts.jpg" /><br />
<strong>G</strong>oodreads <strong>R</strong>ating: 3.51<br />
<strong>P</strong>ublished: February 24th, 2015<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Rhiannon Thomas's dazzling debut novel is a spellbinding reimagining of Sleeping Beauty and what happens after happily ever after.<br />
<br />
One hundred years after falling asleep, Princess Aurora wakes up to the kiss of a handsome prince and a broken kingdom that has been dreaming of her return. All the books say that she should be living happily ever after. But as Aurora understands all too well, the truth is nothing like the fairy tale.<br />
<br />
Her family is long dead. Her "true love" is a kind stranger. And her whole life has been planned out by political foes while she slept.<br />
<br />
As Aurora struggles to make sense of her new world, she begins to fear that the curse has left its mark on her, a fiery and dangerous thing that might be as wicked as the witch who once ensnared her. With her wedding day drawing near, Aurora must make the ultimate decision on how to save her kingdom: marry the prince or run.</blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>T</strong>aschima's <strong>POV</strong>:</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="description" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/GIFS/tumblr_lvk8u9CWkt1qbbumo_zps76wskkbj.gif" height="146" width="350" /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"What had happened to make people obsess over a fairy tale? To make a prince believe a single kiss meant true love, and that a girl who knew so little could mean so much?"</b></blockquote>
While I found Aurora's struggle with her new reality believable and even relatable I just can't seem to muster the interest in a sequel. A Wicked Thing got a lot of things right I guess, technically and structurally, it is just so... unmemorable. It is the kind of book that you read, and then you just continue to the next thing without much of a fuss.<br />
<br />
We ALL know Sleeping Beauty's story. Beautiful girl gets cursed as a baby by a PMS-ing evil witch who just wants the world to buuuurrrn. Princess then goes and does the ONE thing she shouldn't have done in her entire life, falls asleep, and then gets rescued by a noble prince who then whisks her off to a HEA.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="description" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/GIFS/Sleeping-Beauty-sleeping-beauty-22346101-500-192_zpsdp5qxdxv.gif" height="134" width="350" /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="description" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/GIFS/tumblr_m98dxzKNqc1qlt206o9_500_zpscmhpz9zf.gif" height="171" width="350" /></div>
<br />
Only in A Wicked Thing the girl falls asleep for 100 years; when she wakes up everybody she knows is dead, and her tragic story has been turned by the people into an impossible prophecy that foretells the end of their magic-less days once she wakes up. Also, there is some crap thrown in there about the princess being woken up by her one true love. This does not sit well with our Aurora who wakes up to have her reality completely changed.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"Whoever wakes up the princess with a kiss--they're destined to get married and live happily ever after."</b><b>True love? Destiny? Perhaps he was a madman after all."</b></blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="description" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/GIFS/tumblr_m121fkirTC1qm6oc3o1_500_zpsxgmjnfsg.gif" height="160" width="350" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="description" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/GIFS/tumblr_m1r9giCKdM1qm6oc3o1_500_zps4dxaq05r.gif" height="146" width="350" /></div>
<br />
The thing is, I LIKED Aurora. Her inner monologue is relatable and even funny at times. Aurora is a girl who was raised in a very controlled environment, her parents over protected her due to her curse and so Aurora can come off as being naïve and kind of a push over. Inside her head she would think things that gave her a back bone but she would never act on her emotions. I could understand where she comes from, and I didn't reproach her for letting others dictate her life because of how she was raised and the many things she was going through. But I couldn't help wincing every single time she let somebody else push her around. Her character development is VERY slow, quite possibly in order to accommodate for a sequel.<br />
<br />
All the side characters were, for the most part, pretty two dimensional. The prince that wakes up Aurora is a total bore and he is also quite the wimp. He lets himself be manipulated by his mother, who is of course the mean queen. The current king of the land presents a happy face but hides a black heart. I would say the only two interesting side characters were the prince's little sister (because she was adorable) and Finnegan (who is the prince of a far away land rumored to be occupied by dragons). Finnegan was interesting and daring and totally self involved, but at least he was honest about his self preserving nature.<br />
<br />
For most of the novel there is nothing really driving you forward to the next page, other than Aurora's inner struggle. By the middle point or so some loosely put together rebellion is mentioned but I don't believe it is heart felt. At least I didn't buy it. I figured Aurora would be dying to know exactly why she woke up when she did, since she doesn't believe in the story they made up about her, but she was busier trying to stay afloat in her brand new world than trying to figure out WHY she was there in the first place.<br />
<br />
A Wicked Lovely left a lot of things unanswered, like why did Aurora wake up when she did? I have a theory about how (magic is very rare in her new world, maybe the prince who woke her has a bit of magic in his veins...) but I wont know for sure until the next title. I figured a lot of things went unanswered to accommodate for a sequel, but what does it matter if the reader wont even make it to the sequel since there is nothing driving me to buy it? I had enough of Aurora's inner struggle, I don't buy the "rebellion", and the characters/world, aren't engaging enough to make me stick around. It would have been great as a stand alone but I find myself uninterested in a sequel. Perhaps I'll just read a review full of spoilers for the next title and continue on with my life.<br />
<br />
Ps; Would recommend if you LOVE fairy tales and you don't mind slow progression. Aurora is engaging, her inner thoughts being the one thing that got me through the novel. I have a sweet spot for her I guess.<br />
<br />
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<img alt="Red Queen (Red Queen, #1)" height="320" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1411472322l/17878931.jpg" width="208" /></div>
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<strong>T</strong>itle: Red Queen<br />
<strong>A</strong>uthor: Victoria Aveyard<br />
<strong>S</strong>eries: Red Queen<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook #: 1<br />
<strong>P</strong>ages: 320<br />
<strong>R</strong>eading <strong>L</strong>evel: YA<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook <strong>R</strong>ating: <img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/Blog%20Design/3Hearts.jpg" /><br />
<strong>G</strong>oodreads <strong>R</strong>ating: 4.11<br />
<strong>P</strong>ublished: February 10th, 2015<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The poverty stricken Reds are commoners, living under the rule of the Silvers, elite warriors with god-like powers.<br />
<br />
To Mare Barrow, a 17-year-old Red girl from The Stilts, it looks like nothing will ever change.<br />
<br />
Mare finds herself working in the Silver Palace, at the centre of<br />
those she hates the most. She quickly discovers that, despite her red blood, she possesses a deadly power of her own. One that threatens to destroy Silver control.<br />
<br />
But power is a dangerous game. And in this world divided by blood, who will win?</blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>T</strong>aschima's <strong>POV</strong>:</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"They taint me, tease me, trying to make me crack. But I won't. I won't."</b></blockquote>
I am seriously divided in my rating here, because I seriously liked some aspects of Red Queen but at the same time during most of the middle of the book I was a bit bored. I guessed all the major "twists" in the plot from a mile away so it kind of threw a wet blanket on my reading experience. But then you get to the ending and it gets so exciting again, it made me want to pick up the sequel. So a solid 3 stars, good entertaining book that shouldn't be so damn obvious.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"A forgotten son, a vengeful mother, a brother with a long shadow, a strange mutation. Together, they've written a tragedy.</b></blockquote>
Mare Barrow is a girl down on her luck who feels like the only way to be useful to her family is to steal in order to put food on the table. She has no aspirations, and no time for dreams. Even if she did it wouldn't matter in the world she is from. You either are an apprentice or you are sent to fight in the war (where a death sentence is a sure thing). The Silvers (superior humans who have "powers") control her world and there is nothing to do but try and survive. That is until the day Mare, a Red, finds out she has super powers as well in front of a stadium full of Silvers. In order to cover up the Red's powers the Silver monarchy decide to give Mare a fairy tale story- she is now a long lost princess, daughter to a most respected general who died at war, who had been living under the roof of a Red her entire life. Sounds like a dream, only is anything but. Mare has tons of enemies, people who want to see her crash and burn, and only keeping quiet and acting the part might save her life. What IS Mare? Where do her powers come from? Will she find the strength within herself to survive the Silver world?<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"I'm an accident. I'm a lie. And my life depends on maintaining the illusion."</b></blockquote>
Red Queen has a lot of the underlying YA tropes that we have all sort of come to expect. Love triangle (total check), main character who is extra special with a cherry on top (check), from poor to riches effect (check), bitchy/evil other girl who is that way just because she is born this way (check), all males want to bone the main character (check... well, at least 3 main ones want to). So it isn't completely original, but at the same time you can use these tropes and create a completely new story. Red Queen sort of did this, only I needed a little more explanation regarding the races (I have a ton of questions about the Silvers, their history, where DO they come from? Are they aliens from outer space--doubtful since they aren't very tech savy-- or are they angels, or gods? WHAT ARE THEY, and why do they have silver blood? Do they menstruate silver? Maybe a gross comment but it plays into my questioning of the story).<br />
<br />
The only thing that seems to distinguish the Silvers from the Reds (other than the super powers) is that the Silvers bleed Silver and Reds bleed Red. So the story they use to cover up Mare's childhood to other Silvers is faulty in that it stands to reason Mare should have bled (one way or the other) at least ONCE in her life. And once she bled, everybody, including herself, would instantly know she was different. So why didn't the Silvers who were questioning her question this ONE fact? Why didn't they demand she bleed in front of them? Because it would have ended the ruse too quickly and destroyed the story. So I chilled out and tried to look past this obvious piece of information.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"The Mare Barrow of last week wouldn't know whether to laugh or cry at this version of herself. <i>But she was a foolish girl and now I pay the price.</i>"</b></blockquote>
I liked Mare for the most part, which is why I liked the story so much. She reminds me of Katniss in a way, all about survival and she obviously hates the <s>capitol</s> monarchy. Her attitude I guess reminded me of Katniss. Also she has a fight inside her. My one concern when it comes to her is that she was able to be fooled so easily, she trusts too quickly and she let her emotions get the best of her in a number of parts. But then if she had questioned the obvious bad guy early on then we wouldn't have much of a story... And here is where the problem lies.<br />
<br />
I knew who the bad guy was from the get go. I knew, and found myself questioning the intelligence of my main character because it seemed too damn obvious. By the end of the book however we are back on the same page, Mare and I, which is why I think the sequel stands a chance. For the most part I enjoyed learning about the different powers, and the characters are complicated and not so black and white. Both princes in the story are more than meets the eye, and they are both not perfect. I also enjoyed the character of Gisa, Mare's sister, who is just as awesome as Mare is (if not more). She reminds me of Prim, only older and with more snark. I liked that Gisa was her own woman, and I hope to read more from her character in the subsequent novels.<br />
<br />
For new YA readers the Red Queen is a great introduction to the YA universe. It has good characters, good writing, an interesting premise, and the world building was better than most I've seen lately. To YA veterans you might think Red Queen is something that you may have read before (elements of Hunger Games, Pawn, Red Rising, etc) but it still has its own spark that makes the series worth picking up and giving it a go. I am definitely curious to read the next titles and see where the story goes.<br />
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<strong>Currently Reading</strong>: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23365048-first-year" target="_blank">First Year (Black Mage #1) by Rachel E. Carter</a><br />
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<strong>Reading Queue</strong> (list of books I WISH I could read at the same time): <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20618110-solitaire?ac=1" target="_blank">Solitaire by Alice Oseman,</a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17948607-the-treatment?ac=1" target="_blank">The Treatment (The Program #2) by Suzanne Young,</a> and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11324166-timeless?ac=1" target="_blank">Timeless by Gail Carriger</a>.<br />
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Here are five (!) titles that are going to be released within the next week:<br />
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<h3>
If you are looking for a stand alone title...</h3>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18044277-the-walls-around-us" target="_blank"><img alt="The Walls Around Us" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1407168914l/18044277.jpg" width="133" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21793649-written-in-the-stars?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Written in the Stars" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1402693760l/21793649.jpg" width="132" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18009950-liars-inc?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Liars, Inc." height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1403739161l/18009950.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
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I am SO looking forward to The Walls Around Us! <br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"<u>The Walls Around Us</u> is a ghostly story of suspense told in two voices—one still living and one long dead."</blockquote>
It seems to be a very good written weird/spooky story, on the lines of <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6364657-bleeding-violet?ac=1" target="_blank"><strong>Bleeding Violet</strong> by Dia Reevs</a> perhaps. <strong>Written in the Stars</strong> seems to be a YA diversity book (it is about a girl whose parents want to arrange marry her, and so they bring her back to their mother country -Pakistan- so she can learn about her culture... and find the perfect husband) all I am hoping for is that it does justice to the culture it represents. I have heard only good things about it so I am guessing it nails it. <br />
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<h3>
If you are looking for sequels...</h3>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22504696-in-the-time-of-dragon-moon?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="In the Time of Dragon Moon (Wilde Island Chronicles, #3)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1404961398l/22504696.jpg" width="132" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22429853-half-wild" target="_blank"><img alt="Half Wild (The Half Bad Trilogy, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1413889682l/22429853.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
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I have <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18079804-half-bad?ac=1" target="_blank">Half Bad</a> in my TBR pile. I read an excerpt on that series and it was phenomenal, so I really need to get to it. Half Wild is a much buzzed about book so I have high hopes for that series. I haven't read the Wilde Island Chronicles, but I do have <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11387458-dragonswood" target="_blank">Dragoonswood</a> in my TBR, only I didn't know that was a sequel.<br />
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<h3>
If you are looking to start a brand new series...</h3>
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...you may be out of luck this week. But you are more than welcome to look through <a href="http://bloodybookaholic.blogspot.com/2015/03/recent-ya-releases-week-of-march-17th.html" target="_blank">last week's releases</a>!<br />
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For even MORE releases please visit my Pinterest at: <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/TaschimaCullen/" target="_blank">TaschimaCullen.</a><br />
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In it I have individual boards dedicated to YA Releases from 2014- onward by month of release. I update it daily :)<br />
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Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2897777812787333518.post-37647036197386563962015-03-21T07:40:00.001-07:002015-03-21T07:41:44.097-07:00Review + Giveaway: A Darker Shade of Magic by V. E. Schwab (Grey London Blog Tour Stop!)<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img alt="A Darker Shade of Magic (A Darker Shade of Magic, #1)" height="320" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1400322851l/22055262.jpg" width="212" /></div>
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<strong>T</strong>itle: A Darker Shade of Magic<br />
<strong>A</strong>uthor: V. E. Schwab<br />
<strong>S</strong>eries: A Darker Shade of Magic<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook #: 1<br />
<strong>P</strong>ages: 400<br />
<strong>R</strong>eading <strong>L</strong>evel: Adult<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook <strong>R</strong>ating: <img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/Blog%20Design/5Hearts.jpg" /><br />
<strong>G</strong>oodreads <strong>R</strong>ating: 4.26<br />
<strong>P</strong>ublished: February 24th, 2015<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Kell is one of the last Travelers—rare magicians who choose a parallel universe to visit.<br />
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Grey London is dirty, boring, lacks magic, ruled by mad King George. Red London is where life and magic are revered, and the Maresh Dynasty presides over a flourishing empire. White London is ruled by whoever has murdered their way to the throne. People fight to control magic, and the magic fights back, draining the city to its very bones. Once there was Black London - but no one speaks of that now.<br />
<br />
Officially, Kell is the Red Traveler, personal ambassador and adopted Prince of Red London, carrying the monthly correspondences between royals of each London. Unofficially, Kell smuggles for those willing to pay for even a glimpse of a world they’ll never see. This dangerous hobby sets him up for accidental treason. Fleeing into Grey London, Kell runs afoul of Delilah Bard, a cut-purse with lofty aspirations. She robs him, saves him from a dangerous enemy, then forces him to another world for her 'proper adventure'.<br />
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But perilous magic is afoot, and treachery lurks at every turn. To save all of the worlds, Kell and Lila will first need to stay alive — trickier than they hoped.</blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>T</strong>aschima's <strong>POV</strong>:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Cgkvg3g25ibuDaGVVBd2Iixn-fQpJy7Iyj6xVDa4FzZrpQqL3DfgHK_A3O5dtXXVbAIZuy4bcreudUmuJ8IIqxL98JWRSQUQpKBW2-MaxEEhyARl_rIzNXdy5Y4i_jOdGt4NZifJYpk/s1600/A+Darker+Shade+of+Magic+Blog+Tour+Button.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Cgkvg3g25ibuDaGVVBd2Iixn-fQpJy7Iyj6xVDa4FzZrpQqL3DfgHK_A3O5dtXXVbAIZuy4bcreudUmuJ8IIqxL98JWRSQUQpKBW2-MaxEEhyARl_rIzNXdy5Y4i_jOdGt4NZifJYpk/s1600/A+Darker+Shade+of+Magic+Blog+Tour+Button.jpg" height="166" width="200" /></a></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: center;">
<b>"But the thing about magic is that it preys on the strong-minded and the weak-willed, and one of the worlds couldn't stop itself. The people fed on the magic and the magic fed on them until it ate their bodies and their minds and then their souls."</b></blockquote>
I have the hardest time reviewing titles I enjoy (or love as in this case). I feel like I am all praise, and the praise just starts to blend together and what you are left with is one big gushing review full of compliments. Well, if I am to do that again I might as well do it for A Darker Shade of Magic, because hot damn does this title deserve the praise. It has it all, fantastic world building, relatable and boundary breaking characters, with a nice side plot to bring it all together.<br />
<br />
A Darker Shade of Magic is my first V. E. Schwab read. I have other books by her, like her YA novel The Archived and The Near Witch as well as her debut adult novel Vicious (which I've heard is phenomenal), but while I have them I didn't feel as drawn to them as I felt to A Darker Shade of Magic. Maybe perhaps because of its beautiful cover, or maybe because this is Schwab's first honest to god foray into full on Fantasy.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"Grey for the magic-less city.<br />Red, for the healthy empire.<br />White, for the starving world."</b></blockquote>
I loved her world building. Creating one world is hard enough, but creating <s>three</s> four worlds which are situated in the same geographic location while being entirely different? It was something that if not done right could have made the read a terrible disaster. But V. E. Schwab paints these different worlds with such care and attention to detail that you are left with a clear picture in your head, a picture you wish you were able to visit for your own no matter the consequences. Gray London is just like our London, set in the Victorian era (there were corsets and swooning ladies), only drab and gray and not special in any way. Red London is where it is, it is majestic and full of magic, whimsical. You could say the world is perfect, only it is not. Red London flourished by letting their neighbor world, White London, take the blunt of the magical plague which was/is Black London. Thus White London ends up being a world that is best described by the worlds blood, ash, and metal. It is a desolate land that holds desperate souls. Black London... well no one speaks about it for a reason. There is no clear description of the setting, but the feeling you get from it from just the descriptions is enough. A hollow husk full of pure magic.<br />
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The characters were just as developed. You have Kell, the powerful Antari who is but a messenger between the worlds. He is one of the only two people in the world who gets to visit all the Londons. He is also royalty. He was raised by the king and queen of Red London (adopted of sorts), and finds a brother in their son Rhy. Kell has everything he could ever need, and yet he still feels hollow. He takes up smuggling items from one London to the Next as a way to distract himself, rebel, or maybe not feel like such a taken care of pet to the crown. He understands the reason the King and Queen take care of him, they need him, or so he tells himself. The only person he is sure that loves him in his life is his dear brother Rhy, and he will do anything in his power to make sure Rhy is protected. Even, perhaps, travel to the farthest reaches of his world in order to set things straight.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"A delicious thrill ran through her chest, spurned on by the closeness of danger, and Lila wondered, not for the first time, if something was wrong with her."</b></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"Lila Bard knew in her bones that she was meant to be a pirate. All she needed was a working ship."</b></blockquote>
Lila is quite honestly a bad ass. She is sure she was born to be a pirate, to travel the world and discover new places. Little did she know that she was bound to meet the one person who could play the part of her ship and bring her to different worlds. Kell and Lila don't meet on the best of terms. Lila is an honest to god thief, though not completely ruthless she wouldn't mind killing you if you deserved it. So she naturally steals something from Kell, and Kell proceeds to hunt her ass down. There is no lost love between these two, they help each other more out of a sense of duty than anything else. Lila helps Kell because Kell has something she wants, and Kell lets her because he can't save the world on his own. Lila is also a great way to ground Kell, she gives it to him straight and doesn't worry about protecting his feelings. When Kell is being a whiny bitch Lila tells him so, and then tells him to get over himself. Did I mention I loved her?<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"Why anyone would ever <i>pretend</i> to be weak was beyond her."</b></blockquote>
I think of A Darker Shade of Magic kind of like a prequel to when the real story begins. You get the sense that things are in peril in this novel, but you also don't really feel threatened or even that scare for your main characters because you just know that shit is about to hit the fan in the sequel. A Darker Shade of Magic worked to set up the stage, the rules of magic (very thoroughly), and allowed us to care about these characters. The sequel, I bet, is bound to just screw with the world we have come to care for in a number of ways we hadn't even expected. And I cannot wait.<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Author Spotlight</span></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh47MAXMW6x_P5LV6ODry8W6Y3lM90bee73WB4dPvNAe9iQp_TIqwmGnrRynSCPQYchQKyZWnv7UlN96vRzS84HYSw-JHztfRQeBVflhz46lM0KoRcduyYtdRa8oOVx_YJx_kD5OGRD4e0/s1600/Darker+Shade+Magic+Web+Banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh47MAXMW6x_P5LV6ODry8W6Y3lM90bee73WB4dPvNAe9iQp_TIqwmGnrRynSCPQYchQKyZWnv7UlN96vRzS84HYSw-JHztfRQeBVflhz46lM0KoRcduyYtdRa8oOVx_YJx_kD5OGRD4e0/s1600/Darker+Shade+Magic+Web+Banner.jpg" height="48" width="400" /></a></div>
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Q: <u>For each color London (Red, White, Gray... Maybe Black?), can you give us one book recommendation that would sort of be perfect for each setting?</u><br />
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V. E. Schwab: Oh, great question! Let’s see:<br />
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<span style="color: #666666;">Grey London</span>: Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke or Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/14497.Neverwhere?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell" height="200" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1364309472l/8466224.jpg" width="132" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6479879-neverwhere" target="_blank"><img alt="Neverwhere" height="200" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1372990417l/6479879.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">Red London</span>: The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch<br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6425904-the-lies-of-locke-lamora" target="_blank"><img alt="The Lies of Locke Lamora (Gentleman Bastard, #1)" height="200" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1398149225l/6425904.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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<u>White London</u>: The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson<br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7235533-the-way-of-kings?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="The Way of Kings (The Stormlight Archive, #1)" height="200" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1388184640l/7235533.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
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<b>Black London</b>: Sabriel by Garth Nix<br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1042542.Sabriel" target="_blank"><img alt="Sabriel (Abhorsen, #1)" height="200" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1374876120l/1042542.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
GIVEAWAY: One copy of A Darker Shade of Magic and one double-sided signed poster that features the US and UK covers</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><a class="rcptr" data-raflid="2314919d23" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/2314919d23/" id="rcwidget_b0w4j8mg" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a></u></span><br />
<span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><script src="//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script></u></span><br />
<script src="//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script></div>
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For more Darker Shade of Magic Bonus Content please visit:<br />
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<a href="http://darker-shade.com/">Darker-Shade.com</a> - a special website for A DARKER SHADE OF MAGIC that is full of information and materials for readers.<br />
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·A <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEnDX2xnegA" target="_blank">video</a> featuring V. E. Schwab exploring London and discussing the book.<br />
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·<span style="font-size: large;">A fun <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/miriambard/which-london-do-you-actually-belong-in-1bod4" target="_blank">Buzzfeed Quiz</a> you and your readers can take that will sort you into a magical London.</span><br />
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Recently I have been re-reading, as well as finishing, the <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/46888-parasol-protectorate" target="_blank">Parasol Protectorate series</a> by Gail Carriger. I had previously read the series all the way to <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8356487-heartless" target="_blank">Heartless</a>, and then other books got in the way of me actually finishing it. Now because of the release of <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12799420-prudence?ac=1" target="_blank">Prudence</a> (releases today!) I decided to finally finish off the series. I am right now in the last book, Heartless, and I think I am finally ready to put out my Alexia Tabarotti dream cast!<br />
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**The people I've cast may be impossible (like Lord Akeldama) but this is just to give you an idea of how these characters look in my head. I hope you like them, and please feel free to leave suggestions!! <br />
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Lucy Punch as</div>
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Ivy Hisselpenny</h3>
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<img src="http://spinoff.comicbookresources.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/lucy-punch.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></div>
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<img height="200" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ--cP_t6a8RoYFauQG4-hdvCk3482Rlfw7IH2M0uuXRyxP5GQ1" width="150" /> <img src="http://thecarousel.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/sister-2.jpg" height="187" width="320" /></div>
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"Ivy Hisselpenny was the unfortunate victim of circumstances that dictated she be only just-pretty, only-just-wealthy, and possessed of a terrible propensity for wearing extremely silly hats."</blockquote>
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Ivy may be a little silly, but she is a loyal friend. She is also more than meets the eye, being instrumental in some of the information gathering missions Alexia goes on. She is Alexia's best friend, a lady of worth turned actress (actresses weren't all that big of a deal back then). She has a propensity for ugly hats that tend to put off those around her. She is cheerful and lovely, and a great friend to have.</div>
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Audrey Tautou as</div>
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Madame Lefoux</h3>
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<a href="http://gailcarriger.livejournal.com/179631.html" target="_blank">Character Study by Gail Carriger</a></div>
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<a data-ved="0CAcQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CAcQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgalleryhip.com%2Faudrey-tautou-2014.html&ei=newGVfmnKob_ggTSr4LYAQ&bvm=bv.88198703,d.eXY&psig=AFQjCNFl0AqH-mPwrtI7VDAk41BFWD3XFA&ust=1426603501070997" id="irc_mil" jsaction="mousedown:irc.rl;keydown:irc.rlk;irc.il;" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://static1.purepeople.com/articles/1/11/92/61/@/1105180-audrey-tautou-at-the-uk-premiere-of-950x0-1.jpg" height="320" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="221" /></a></div>
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"Alexia thought, without envy, that this was quite probably the most beautiful female she had ever seen. She had a lovely small mouth, large green eyes, prominent cheekbones, and dimples when she smiled, which she was doing now. Normally Alexia objected to dimples, but they seemed to suit this woman. Perhaps because they were offset by her thin angular frame and the fact that she had her brown hair cut unfashionably short, like a man's."</blockquote>
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I love Madame Lefoux, not only because she is little Vieve from Etiquette and Espionage but because she turned out to be such a bad ass inventor. Madame Lefoux is the smartest woman Alexia knows, who is also full of soul. She is quite the coquette as well, flirting and sending hints to Alexia regarding her attraction. Alexia does not like her that way, but they end up being good friends... </div>
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<a data-ved="0CAcQjRw" href="http://www.short-haircut.com/short-pixie-haircuts-for-women-2012-2013.html" id="irc_mil" jsaction="mousedown:irc.rl;keydown:irc.rlk;irc.il;" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://www.short-haircut.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Audrey-Tautou-pixie-haircut.jpg" height="320" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="254" /></a></div>
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Tom Cruise (circa Interview with a Vampire) as</div>
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Lord Akeldama</h3>
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"Lord Akeldama might look and act like a supercilious buffoon of the highest order, but he had one of the sharpest minds in the whole of London."</blockquote>
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"It was impossible not to grin at Lord Akeldama; his attire was so consistently absurd."</blockquote>
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<span style="text-align: left;">"His ethereal face was powdered quite unnecessarily, for he was already completely pale, a predilection of his kind. He sported round spots of pink blush on each cheek like a Punch and Judy puppet. He also affected a gold monocle, although, like all vampires, he had perfect vision."</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUP1FihbaCAT52L7dJpJIcACiR6veJSvbko9nQuaNbDKYhaOlL6WQXMt7KY4UTPty972UI-fE5J1j9kDfk88VAft8CTBhhl5XKOPTo98bLq-zrWhytUUsDv1RzGvk8MkFh_w93EFlN3Ko/s1600/200_s.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUP1FihbaCAT52L7dJpJIcACiR6veJSvbko9nQuaNbDKYhaOlL6WQXMt7KY4UTPty972UI-fE5J1j9kDfk88VAft8CTBhhl5XKOPTo98bLq-zrWhytUUsDv1RzGvk8MkFh_w93EFlN3Ko/s1600/200_s.gif" height="167" width="320" /></a></div>
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I thought a lot about who to cast as Lord Akeldama, because he has such a character. For a moment I thought Neil Patrick Harris, but then as I was reading Heartless and Timeless I kept imagining Lord Akeldama as Tom Cruise circa Interview with a Vampire. They are both such drama queens (Lestat and Akeldama) that it just fits in my head. Mannerisms, character, physical description... It fits!! </div>
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Alexis Denisof as</div>
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Proffessor Lyall</h3>
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<img src="http://beards.provocateuse.com/images/photos/alexis_denisof_02.jpg" height="400" width="280" /></div>
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<img src="http://spectacle.provocateuse.com/images/spectacles/alexis_denisof_02.jpg" height="149" width="200" /> <img src="http://img4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20131214202424/grimm/images/b/be/307-Viktor.png" height="145" width="200" /></div>
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"Professor Lyall, the Beta in question, was a slight, sandy-haired gentleman of indeterminate age and pleasant disposition, as agreeable, in fact, as his Alpha was sour. He grinned at her and doffed his hat, which was of first-class design and sensible material. His cravat was similarly subtle, for, while it was tied expertly, the knot was a humble one."</blockquote>
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Professor Lyall is the one who keeps everything, and everyone together. He blurs into the background and pretty much manages his Alpha. He is quiet but very proficient. He is there to be voice of reason and so much of the time you find him fixing both his Alphas' problems but he doesn't have much of a story for himself.</div>
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Joe Manganiello as</div>
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Lord Maccon</h3>
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<img src="http://www.gannett-cdn.com/-mm-/a7a0b94b542e755dfe8d75504d6f5aea7f606fa2/c=0-74-620-900&r=537&c=0-0-534-712/local/-/media/Phoenix/Phoenix/2014/08/01/1406909707000-thumb.jpeg" height="400" width="300" /></div>
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<img height="320" src="https://pabblogger.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/joe-manganiello-hot-52.jpg" width="243" /> <img src="http://media.comicbookmovie.com/images/users/uploads/33503/joe-manganiello%20comic%20book%20superman.jpg" height="320" width="253" /></div>
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"The fourth Earl of Woolsey was much larger than Professor Lyall and in possession of a near-permanent frown. O at least he always seemed to be frowning when he was in the presence of Miss Alexia Tarabotti, ever since the hedgehog incident (which really, honestly, had not been her fault). He also had unreasonably pretty tawny eyes, mahogany-colored hair, and a particularly nice nose. The eyes were currently glaring at Alexia from a shockingly intimate distance."</blockquote>
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This might have been too easy, and yes I know he already played a werewolf and that it is played out, but will you look at him? He is just ALPHA.</div>
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Asia Argento as</div>
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Alexia Tarabotti</h3>
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<img src="http://ia.media-imdb.com/images/M/MV5BMTk0MzkyNzY2NF5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwMjkwMDg2Ng@@._V1_SY317_CR31,0,214,317_AL_.jpg" height="320" width="216" /></div>
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"While Miss Tarabotti was a proper English young lady, aside from not having a soul and being half Italian, she did spend quite a bit more time than most other young ladies riding and walking and was therefore unexpectedly strong."</blockquote>
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<img src="http://www2.pictures.gi.stylebistro.com/Asia+Argento+Tattoos+Artistic+Design+Tattoo+bEzXDJPP8D7l.jpg" height="320" width="230" /> <img src="http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/showbiz/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20090514/0023ae606f170b75b9c925.jpg" height="320" width="219" /></div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: left;">
"Miss Tarabotti knew full well her own feminine appeal. The kindest compliment her face could ever hope to garner was "exotic," never "lovely". Not that it has ever received either. Alexia figured that vampires, like all predators, were at their most charming when cornered." </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: left;">
"Miss Tarabotti might examine her face in the mirror each morning with a large degree of censure, but there was nothing at all wrong with her figure. He [Lord Maccon] would have to have had far less soul and a good fewer urges not to notice that appetizing fact. Of course, she always went and spoiled the appeal by opening her mouth. In his humble experience, the world had yet to produce a more vexingly verbose female."</blockquote>
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Alexia is by far my favorite character of the series. She is smart, practical, and has hilarious interactions with everyone around her. She is very proper, a lady, yet she is progressive and an Alpha without having to be a werewolf. She is the one that figures out what the problem is because she needs the mess tidied up. I love her, and I hope she makes appearances in Prudence.</div>
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There you have it. My very own Parasol Protectorate dream cast. Who would you cast?<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm2E-vfU-i0MOJh2MhWu2YvSIJApCnEknzO02fN6sJPbNj0N33HcnvbYdimHCUQuTnNLZhK0If_c2robJdzjEjpVVtc_i8TnvqHeO2XxHdODaftkhQsvmsqVGn663yDFJbHdArU4dMSsYN/s1600/New+Signature.jpg" /></div>
Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2897777812787333518.post-66677159495812245672015-03-16T06:00:00.000-07:002015-03-16T06:00:03.800-07:00Recent YA Releases: Week of March 17th-March 23rdI shall read some of these books... just as soon as I finish <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17901125-the-mime-order" target="_blank">Mime Order</a> (Samantha Shannon), and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11324166-timeless" target="_blank">Timeless</a> (Gail Carriger), and every other title I said I would finish by last month... #BookwormWoes<br />
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Here are seven (!) titles that are going to be released within the next week:<br />
<h3>
If you are looking to start a brand new series...</h3>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12799420-prudence?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Prudence (The Custard Protocol, #1)" height="320" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1393521574l/12799420.jpg" width="214" /></a><br />
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I am SO EXCITED for this title. I actually got this one at ALA Midwinter 2015 in Chicago, but I haven't been able to read it because I am currently finishing up it's predecessor series The Parasol Protectorate (which is about Prudence's mother, Alexia Tabarotti). I absolutely love Alexia, and in the last book of her series, which I am currently reading, we get to meet Prudence as a young child. So far she seems to be a handful which is just about right considering who her mother is (not to mention her werewolf father).</div>
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In honor of Prudence's release I am going to be posted a special Dream Cast post, dream casting every character of importance in the Parasol Protectorate series as well as Prudence as a small child. I am extremely excited about this release!! If you haven't read the Parasol Protectorate series, or the Etiquette and Espionage series, you absolutely MUST! The dialogue in the books is reason enough, not to mention Alexia's character, the way Gail Carriger makes her scenery and characters just shine and click. She single-handedly got me into Steampunk genre.</div>
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<h3>
If you are looking for a stand alone title...</h3>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18308621-the-perilous-journey-of-the-not-so-innocuous-girl" target="_blank"><img alt="The Perilous Journey of the Not-So-Innocuous Girl" height="200" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1402684230l/18308621.jpg" width="133" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21795576-everything-that-makes-you?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Everything That Makes You" height="200" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1403210135l/21795576.jpg" width="132" /></a><br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24842185-never-gonna-tell?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Never Gonna Tell" height="200" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1424881487l/24842185.jpg" width="132" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17235448-the-wrong-side-of-right" target="_blank"><img alt="The Wrong Side of Right" height="200" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1402694775l/17235448.jpg" width="132" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18488397-under-a-painted-sky?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Under a Painted Sky" height="200" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1403719279l/18488397.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
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If you happen to be looking for a stand alone title, well, you are certainly in luck cause this week it seems to be all about the stand alones! I am particularly interested in <b>Never Gonna Tell</b> because it sounds very ala Veronica Mars, and I LOVE VM. I am also interested in <b>The Perilous Journey of the Not-So-Innocuous Girl</b> (wow, a mouthful) because I've heard (well, read) good things. If you arelooking to read those two, and have a kindle, you are in luck cause <b>Never Gonna Tell </b>is only $.99 cents (quite possibly because it is self published) and then The Perilous Journey of the <b>Not-So-Innocuous Girl</b> (I'll be honest, I copied and pasted that title) in under $4.00. Quite a steal if you ask me.<br />
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If you are looking for sequels...</h3>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22558842-pretty-wanted?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Pretty Wanted (Pretty Crooked, #3)" height="200" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1403369924l/22558842.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
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I shall be honest and say I have NOT read the first book in this series, but if you do, well, the next one is out tomorrow! This is the third installment in the series, with the first one being <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11182074-pretty-crooked" target="_blank">Pretty Crooked</a>.</div>
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For even MORE releases please visit my Pinterest at: <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/TaschimaCullen/" target="_blank">TaschimaCullen.</a> In it I have individual boards dedicated to YA Releases from 2014- onward by month of release. I update it daily :)<br />
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Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2897777812787333518.post-31962564427017967442015-03-14T08:33:00.001-07:002015-03-14T08:33:02.432-07:00Throwback YA Review: Tandem (Many-Worlds Trilogy) by Ana Jarzab<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img alt="Tandem (Many-Worlds, #1)" height="320" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1368716519l/15829686.jpg" width="211" /></div>
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<strong>T</strong>itle: Tandem<br />
<strong>A</strong>uthor: Anna Jarzab<br />
<strong>S</strong>eries: Many-Worlds<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook #: 1<br />
<strong>P</strong>ages: 428<br />
<strong>R</strong>eading <strong>L</strong>evel: NA<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook <strong>R</strong>ating: <img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/Blog%20Design/4Hearts.jpg" /><br />
<strong>G</strong>oodreads <strong>R</strong>ating: 3.81<br />
<strong>P</strong>ublished: October 8th, 2013<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Everything repeats.<br />
You. Your best friend. Every person you know.<br />
Many worlds. Many lives--infinite possibilities.<br />
Welcome to the multiverse.<br />
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Sixteen-year-old Sasha Lawson has only ever known one small, ordinary life. When she was young, she loved her grandfather's stories of parallel worlds inhabited by girls who looked like her but led totally different lives. Sasha never believed such worlds were real--until now, when she finds herself thrust into one against her will.<br />
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To prevent imminent war, Sasha must slip into the life of an alternate version of herself, a princess who has vanished on the eve of her arranged marriage. If Sasha succeeds in fooling everyone, she will be returned home; if she fails, she'll be trapped in another girl's life forever. As time runs out, Sasha finds herself torn between two worlds, two lives, and two young men vying for her love--one who knows her secret, and one who thinks she's someone she's not.</blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>T</strong>aschima's <strong>POV</strong>:</span><br />
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Something drew me to Tandem. I don't know if it was the quiet blue color of it's cover, the title, or the summary, quite possibly all three combined, but I knew I just HAD to read it right away. And thank goodness I did. I was on a sort of reading rut before I read Tandem and it managed to get me right off it. Tandem is a very solid start to what can possibly be an amazing series given the chance, specially with the ending it left us! I am full of questions and cannot wait for the sequel Tether.</div>
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Sasha is a normal girl, living her normal life, in a normal world. Everything is pretty ordinary for her, right until the most outgoing guy in her class (and most popular) asks her to prom. All of a sudden, without warning. She is a little hesitant but she still decides to give this guy a chance, I mean what could possibly go wrong? Big mistake. The guy ends up kidnapping her and taking her to another universe, parallel to her own, to fight a war that isn't hers and slip into the shoes of a stolen princess who looks <i>exactly</i> like her. Sasha is determined to go back home, but if the General has anything to way about it she will have to follow his orders without question in order for him to send her back home. In a world where the only person familiar to her is the guy who abducted her out of her reality, a guy who has now sworn to protect her and be by her side, nothing is what it seems. Enemies become friends, and what looked to be friends become enemies. Then again, isn't this how it goes when it comes to royal families? Nothing, and no one, is what it seems.</div>
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I liked the characters in Tandem. I liked Sasha and her determination. She is also very nice and caring. She is more of a princess than the real princess if I do say so myself. Julianna, Sasha's analog (like a double but not really), has the adventurous characteristic I usually love in characters but she can also be very selfish. None of these characters are black and white however so it is difficult to take sides or to judge their actions. Nothing is as it seems. Thomas is very swoon worthy. He is protective and everything, I mean he is a soldier, but he just has a special something about him. He is young, brave, and hopeful. I am expecting him to grow in more darker ways as the series progresses, but I hope he doesn't loose his inherit trust in people.</div>
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I am glad the YA universe is coming out with different stories. Parallel universes... Now that's something I hadn't read about too often. It is marvelous, and all I have to say is that once you head into this tale you have to suspend your beliefs and give a chance to the possibilities. The rules of this world aren't exactly like our own, and somethings may seem to unbelievable at first but they have a solid theory backing them up.</div>
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The only thing I could say that was off putting about Tandem was the fact that I just <i>knew</i> some of the key plot points. Like I could see them coming a mile off, but it still was very fun to see it play off anyways. Predictable maybe, but I am guessing the second book in the series may be less so, it could go soo many different ways it is kind of exciting to see what the author decides to go with.</div>
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The ending! Oh gosh, I can't get Tether here fast enough! Conspiracies need resolving, lovers need reacquainting, princesses need some spankings, and kingdoms need saving! It is very exciting, though it feels like a cliffhanger. It it, and it isn't. You'll know what I mean when you read the book yourself, it is well worth your time.<br />
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<b>Next Book in the Series:</b></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17928233-tether" target="_blank"><img alt="Tether (Many-Worlds, #2)" height="200" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1402963852l/17928233.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
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Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2897777812787333518.post-90214617589030865872015-03-12T06:29:00.000-07:002015-03-12T06:29:00.149-07:00NA Review: Unseen (Unborn #2) by Amber Lynn Natusch<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img alt="Unseen (Unborn, #2)" height="320" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1417472269l/23379431.jpg" width="213" /></div>
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<strong>T</strong>itle: Unseen<br />
<strong>A</strong>uthor: Amber Lynn Natusch<br />
<strong>S</strong>eries: Unborn<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook #: 2<br />
<strong>P</strong>ages: 288<br />
<strong>R</strong>eading <strong>L</strong>evel: NA<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook <strong>R</strong>ating: <a href="http://www.blogger.com/rearrange?blogID=2897777812787333518&action=editWidget&sectionId=sidebar&widgetType=null&widgetId=Text2"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/Blog%20Design/2Hearts.jpg" /></a><br />
<strong>G</strong>oodreads <strong>R</strong>ating: 4.01<br />
<strong>P</strong>ublished: February 17th, 2015<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Welcome to the Kingdom of Hades, where even its prodigal princess sleeps lightly.<br />
After fighting Soul Stealers in Detroit, Khara hoped to return home to find answers in her father's realm. But the land of the dead offers little information, and far too much tragedy. Now cut off from her brothers, and left only with her dark and unreliable companion Oz, Khara must navigate the centuries-old webs of deceit and betrayal, all while eluding the Underworld's most depraved inhabitant. But she soon finds an unexpected ally in her adopted sister Persephone. Together, they endeavor to right a terrible wrong. And as Khara soon discovers, there's more riding on her success than she ever thought possible.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>T</strong>aschima's <strong>POV</strong>:</span><br />
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I almost didn't even pick up Unseen. After Unborn I was well and ready to give up on the series, but then I thought about the boys (brothers) in the books and I felt an inkling of curiosity. So I said fuck it and went ahead and picked this one up, going against my better judgment. Unseen tries to improve on Unborn, and it really takes to heart things that were wrong with the previous title and tries to fix them, but then how come it still felt like it fell flat? Maybe this series, this story overall, just isn't for me. I still couldn't stand the "romantic" interest (actually, if it is even possible, I hated him even MORE in this title), I felt like for most of the book NOTHING was happening and we were just going round and round looking for answers no one was willing to provide, and I got to see little of the characters I loved and a lot of the characters I disliked in the previous novel. Which made for an overall bland and unexciting reading experience.<br />
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So after the mess of an ending that was Unborn Khara loses all sense and follows Oz into the Underworld to quote unquote "look for answers about her origins". But pretty much she gets to the Underworld and everybody brushes her off. Nobody wants to give her answers, they all just want to use her for their own purposes. Greed, revenge, sexual frustration, Khara seems to be in high demand as an object. Nobody wants to give her the light of day until they need something from her. Not even Oz. Specially Oz.<br />
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So Khara goes to the Underworld and she pretty much spends most of the book walking round and round in these never ending corridors that seem to be the Underworld's living quarters. Because this is how it is described. As never ending corridors. No real description is given, you take it or leave it. Make something up in your mind and hopefully it sticks. <br />
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I personally liked to imagined the Underworld as if it was <a href="http://www.khwiki.com/Castle_Oblivion%22%3ECastle">Castle</a> Oblivion from Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories.<br />
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I don't necessarily know why, but since so little was described in terms of setting I guess I just grasped at straws and came up with something that felt familiar. An endless stream of corridors, with little to no distinctions.<br />
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The story is much like the corridors, and endless quest to look for answers that keeps going and going with no answers on sight. The worst part of this is that you get to experience this with Oz right behind you.<br />
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<b>"Same old ego-driven asshole."<br />"No," Oz countered. "Not the same ego-driven asshole. An even bigger one. One that can destroy you far more efficiently than before."</b><br />
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They keep talking about Oz and the power of the "Dark Ones" but other than some very big talk I saw nothing to back this up. But other than an attitude upgrade (or is it downgrade?) Oz just seems to be the same prick with double the confidence. He gets tiresome quick, his threats, his "you have to trust me just CAUSE I SAY SO", his machismo... I sincerely hate him as a character. Every time I think of him it makes me want to hit something, and if I have to result to violence well then all hope is lost.<br />
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<b>"He stepped back from me enough to rake his eyes over my body as though he was trying to memorize it. As though he thought he might never see it again."</b><br />
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Hey there buddy, my eyes are up here.<br />
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Every other sentence allures to sex, which makes Unseen seem like Erotica for the NA crowd, with supernatural creatures! I want to be clear as to what I am reading (genre wise) so I don't create expectations. If I am told I am getting this (erotica) then I expect it and all the rest doesn't seem as bad.<br />
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<b>"I have to say that I find it mildly amusing that you are now so dependent on these feelings of yours. This from the girl who formerly felt nothing? I cannot help but be skeptical of this new dependence,"</b><br />
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Before I criticized Khara because she seemed like an empty vessel. In fact, a lot of reviewers did this because she was utterly empty of emotions. Now in Unseen everybody (and by everybody I mean the characters) criticize her for being full of emotion. Although, I barely see it. Having the characters constantly refer to her "emotions" does not make for an emotional character, it just makes me annoyed. There is a difference between telling a reader, and showing a reader.<br />
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<b>"I was not devoid of all emotion when we met," I countered. "There was a barely perceptible shift in me when I met my brothers, as if my being had finally found a place that it belonged to. I would not have fought to stay there is that had not been the case."</b><br />
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And she said this with a deadpan face and tone.<br />
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There was one point in the novel that Khara might have woken up completely naked next to a certain fellow (after he kind of punched her out of commission) and she didn't even throw a fit. After that I was dooone with the "romance", and lost a bit of respect for Khara. I would have had him HAVE IT. I would have KICKED HIS ASS. She didn't even argue! She was just like, "why did you do this?", explanation was given, "okay". If it was me, the situation might have gotten a little like this: "YOU DID WHAT?"<br />
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Overall Unseen was just not for me. In fact, the whole series might just not be for me. I gave it a second try and it just didn't work out. It is not you it's me? Although, I do think it is you so let's just agree to part ways amicably.<br />
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PS; OZ needs to die. Bring back the brothers for reals as necessary characters; Khara is doing better, keep it up girl. Please OZ, stop calling Khara "new girl", it is quite annoying.<br />
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Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2897777812787333518.post-84301865813556739402015-03-10T07:09:00.002-07:002015-03-10T07:09:16.572-07:00Recent YA Releases: Week of March 10th-March 16thI wish I had five pairs of eyes, so all of them could read at the same time. That way I would MAYBE get ahead of my TBR pile JUST ONCE #BookwormFail<br />
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Here are eight titles that release today, or are going to be released within the next week:<br />
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If you are looking for sequels...</h3>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20553857-the-infinite?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="The Infinite (Gates of Thread and Stone, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1421077068l/20553857.jpg" width="133" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18135513-the-dickens-mirror" target="_blank"><img alt="The Dickens Mirror (Dark Passages, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1406822956l/18135513.jpg" width="133" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22747795-rivals-in-the-city" target="_blank"><img alt="Rivals in the City (The Agency #4)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1410997249l/22747795.jpg" width="132" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17928233-tether?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Tether (Many-Worlds, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1402963852l/17928233.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: start;">I</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;"> </span>Sequel to <a href="http://bloodybookaholic.blogspot.com/2014/08/review-gates-of-thread-and-stone-by.html" target="_blank">Gates of Thread and Stone</a> <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: start;">I</span> Sequel to <a href="http://bloodybookaholic.blogspot.com/2014/02/review-white-space-dark-passages-1-by.html" target="_blank">White Space</a> </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: start;">I</span> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/46785-the-agency" target="_blank">The Agency Series Book #4</a> <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: start;">I Sequel to <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/543291550?book_show_action=false" target="_blank">Tandem</a></span></div>
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I have been eagerly waiting for <strong>Tandem</strong>'s sequel, <strong>Tether</strong>, for what it feels like lifetimes now (<em>Many worlds. Many lives--infinite possibilities)</em>. <strong>Tandem</strong> was a very nice surprise to me so I am hoping <strong>Tether</strong> is just as good, if not better (infinite universes, romance, adventure, action!). <strong>The Infinite</strong> is another I have queued up in my Kindle, as well as <strong>The Dicken's Mirror</strong> (<strong>White Space</strong> was such a weird, yet interesting, read; a story within a story within a story...). I have let the series <strong>The Agency</strong> go, last book I read was the second one, but I still know Y. S. Lee is a terrific writer and this series is well worth the read. It is like Gail Carriger's <strong>Etiquette and Espionage</strong>, only <strong>The Agency</strong> was released first.</div>
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If you are looking to start a brand new series...</h3>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24721599-red?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Red" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1422467781l/24721599.jpg" width="133" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18081228-the-orphan-queen?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="The Orphan Queen (The Orphan Queen, #1)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1402927856l/18081228.jpg" width="132" /></a><br />
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Currently reading Orphan Queen. It is okay so far, hoping I get some serious action soon!</div>
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If you are looking for a stand alone title...</h3>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22609310-confess?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Confess" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1412280173l/22609310.jpg" width="128" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22573856-little-peach?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Little Peach" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1405519690l/22573856.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
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I at least want to read six of these titles. <strong>Confess</strong> by Colleen Hoover is a MUST (she is a literary goddess), as well as the sequels to all the other series I've been reading. RED sounds interesting too, and since I enjoyed Alyxandra's other series, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/47885-drake-chronicles" target="_blank">The Drake Chronicles</a>, I figure I'd give RED a shot. #SelfChallenge #ReadALLTHEBOOKS<br />
<br />
For even MORE releases please visit my Pinterest at: <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/TaschimaCullen/" target="_blank">TaschimaCullen.</a> In it I have individual boards dedicated to YA Releases from 2014- onward by month of release.<br />
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Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2897777812787333518.post-74742207432450891962015-03-05T11:24:00.002-08:002015-03-05T11:24:26.178-08:00YA Review: Death Marked (Death Sworn #2) by Leah Cypess (This is IT?)<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img alt="Death Marked (Death Sworn, #2)" height="320" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1404496159l/18803194.jpg" width="212" /></div>
<br />
<strong>T</strong>itle: Death Marked<br />
<strong>A</strong>uthor: Leah Cypess<br />
<strong>S</strong>eries: Death Sworn<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook #: 2<br />
<strong>P</strong>ages: 400<br />
<strong>R</strong>eading <strong>L</strong>evel: YA<br />
<strong>B</strong>ook <strong>R</strong>ating: <img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/Blog%20Design/2Hearts.jpg" />.5<br />
<strong>G</strong>oodreads <strong>R</strong>ating: 3.65<br />
<strong>P</strong>ublished: March 3rd, 2015<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
A young sorceress’s entire life has been shaped to destroy the empire controlling her world. But if everything she knows is a lie, will she even want to fulfill her destiny? The sequel to Death Sworn is just as full of magic and surprising revelations, and will thrill fans of Leigh Bardugo and Robin LaFevers.<br />
<br />
At seventeen, Ileni lost her magical power and was exiled to the hidden caves of the assassins. She never thought she would survive long. But she discovered she was always meant to end up, powerless, in the caves as part of an elder sorcerer’s plan to destroy the evil Empire they'd battled so long. Except that Ileni is not an assassin, and she doesn't want to be a weapon. And, after everything, she’s not even sure she knows the truth. Now, at the very heart of the Empire—its academy for sorcerers—the truth is what she seeks. What she finds challenges every belief she holds dear—and it threatens her fledgling romance with the young master of assassins.<br />
<br />
Leah Cypess spins an intricate and beautiful conclusion to Ileni's story. In the end, it may not be the epic decisions that bring down an empire, but the small ones that pierce the heart.<br />
<br /></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>T</strong>aschima's <strong>POV</strong>:</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"She had grown up believing that destroying the Empire was her life's goal, the hope of every Renegai. But too many of her childhood beliefs had been shattered in the Assassin's Caves. She needed to see for herself."</b></blockquote>
4 Stars for when I thought this had a sequel.<br />
2 stars for it being a conclusion.<br />
<br />
I gave Death Marked four stars (at first) because I thought the struggle within Ileni was real and I admired her for looking for answers for herself instead of inherently trusting the people around her like she did for so many years. I enjoyed the story and got immersed in answering the questions of who to trust, what to think, which side to choose... I thought this book was great, as a sophomore read. Then I read that THIS is the conclusion to the Death Sworn series and all hell broke loose in my head.<br />
<br />
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<img alt="description" src="http://i940.photobucket.com/albums/ad246/TaschimaCullen/GIFS/What-Excuse-me-Say-what-GIF_zpse6egsccb.gif" height="163" width="350" /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"Was <i>nothing</i> she knew about the world true? And if so, how could she--ignorant, naive, wrong about everything--possibly make a decision that would affect the world so drastically?"</b></blockquote>
Death Marked just didn't read like a conclusion. It set up things SO very nicely, if there was a third title. I understand Ileni's decisions, and I loved that after everything she managed to stay true to herself (and her beliefs) in some way, but it isn't enough. You just don't go through everything you read and then NOT HAVE HAVE A NEAT ALL ENCOMPASSING CONCLUSION.<br />
<br />
Death Marked stressed how complicated and difficult this war between the Empire and the Assassins is, I understand that no decision is going to be ideal if they want to end the war, but I also thought the war was going to END by the end of the series. I thought a side would have been proclaimed the winner, and something in the world would change. Yes our main character found peace of some sort but the world did not. The empire is going to keep doing what it is doing, and has been doing for years, the assassins are going to keep coming after them, and Ileni is going to possibly die if she doesn't make herself a more invaluable member of society.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"She could be the one to accomplish the goal both the assassins and her own people had been working toward for centuries: wipe the Empire off the face of this earth."</b></blockquote>
I don't even think they know what "wiping the empire off the face of the Earth" would mean to their society. You have to have a plan, a back up system in case your wiping out of society's current leaders works out. What will you do? How will you control the chaos? It is much like the assassins' predicament, if they kill Sorin who will take over? Who will lead them? And into WHAT future? They clearly have not thought that much ahead. The master might have, but he dead so.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"She had also once thought that she was on the side of good--that she would do something truly, wholly, unmistakably right. She missed that belief more than she missed Sorin, more than she missed her magic, more than she missed not wondering every morning if she would die that day."</b></blockquote>
As like the rest of the story the romance went into a very good place, but it did not feel like a conclusion. Ileni struggles with her feelings for Sorin throughout the novel and when we finally get some resolution to their situation... I need a follow up. It just CAN'T end like that. IT CAN'T. I need answers, I need a confrontation, I need IT NOW. [spoiler] <span style="color: white;">also I never got the vibe of Ileni and Evin. For the large part I thought Evin might have been into Arxis! I just, didn't feel it. Like at all, and then they started holding hands and... no. </span>[/spoiler] It also doesn't help that Sorin was BARELY there throughout the novel. We only get to see his new mask as master of the assassins, little of the reckless boy we came to love in the first title.<br />
<br />
[spoiler]<b><span style="color: white;">"It still hurt, a tinge of loss. Her life wouldn't be grand, or dramatic, or momentous. There would be no great choices to make, no moments when everything would change. It would make a dull story if she was ever called upon to tell it.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: white;">It hurt, yes. But it was also something of a relief."</span></b><br />
<span style="color: white;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: white;">So she basically choose as her elders and others did when they exiled themselves. She choose to take the passive way out and HOPE this would change something. TO be honest, she kind of chickened out of making any REAL damage. At the end her upbringing won against everything else, and she wasn't strong enough to make the tough choices. I understand some characters are meant to battle for years before any change happens, but some on this is a novel! You have got to give me SOME resolution! If not then write a 3rd book and fast forward 5 years into the future.</span>[spoiler]<br />
<br />
Did I enjoy Death Marked? YES. I did, I thought it was written well, I loved the struggle within Ileni, how she wanted to use the magic but she knew it was wrong, etc. but I also thought we were working towards something. I didn't realize this was the last book. I thought there was more so I ended up disappointed in the end.<br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm2E-vfU-i0MOJh2MhWu2YvSIJApCnEknzO02fN6sJPbNj0N33HcnvbYdimHCUQuTnNLZhK0If_c2robJdzjEjpVVtc_i8TnvqHeO2XxHdODaftkhQsvmsqVGn663yDFJbHdArU4dMSsYN/s1600/New+Signature.jpg" />Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2897777812787333518.post-84267245930279670822015-03-03T08:31:00.001-08:002015-03-03T08:31:06.971-08:00Recent YA Releases: Week of March 1st-March 8thA brand new month just started, and here I am already looking for ways to make your bookshelf cream "uncle!". Here are 11 titles that release today, or are going to be released within the next week:<br />
<h3>
If you are looking for sequels...</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://bloodybookaholic.blogspot.com/2015/02/ya-review-winners-crime-winners-trilogy.html" target="_blank"><img alt="The Winner's Crime (The Winner's Trilogy, #2)" height="320" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1411741455l/20443207.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20443207-the-winner-s-crime?ac=1" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
The Winner's Crime is definitely worth the wait. I read it within 24 hours, and it broke me. It was fantastic, and that ending! After <a href="http://bloodybookaholic.blogspot.com/2014/05/review-winners-curse-by-marie-rutkoski.html" target="_blank">The Winner's Curse</a> made me fall in love with the series I thought it was going to be hard to top it, but The Winner's Crime is even better. And if you haven't even read <a href="http://bloodybookaholic.blogspot.com/2014/05/review-winners-curse-by-marie-rutkoski.html" target="_blank">The Winner's Curse</a>... BUY IT NOW. YOU MUST READ IT IMMEDIATELY! =D</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22061231-the-crimson-gate?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="The Crimson Gate (The Violet Hour, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1400678385l/22061231.jpg" width="129" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17234664-sorceress?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Sorceress (Spellcaster, #3)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1403884111l/17234664.jpg" width="133" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22342670-kin?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Kin (Tales of Beauty & Madness, #3)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1402674654l/22342670.jpg" width="133" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18803194-death-marked?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Death Marked (Death Sworn, #2)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1404496159l/18803194.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: start;">I</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: left;"> </span>Sequel to <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18085695-the-violet-hour" target="_blank">The Violet Hour</a> <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: start;">I</span> Sequel to <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17230200-steadfast" target="_blank">Steadfast</a> <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: start;">I</span> Sequel to <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18079680-wayfarer" target="_blank">Wayfare</a>r <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', メイリオ, Meiryo, 'MS Pゴシック', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; text-align: start;">I Sequel to <a href="http://bloodybookaholic.blogspot.com/2014/03/review-death-sworn-by-leah-cypess.html" target="_blank">Death Sworn</a></span></div>
<h3>
If you are looking to start a brand new series...</h3>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21996355-breaking-sky?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Breaking Sky" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1410890549l/21996355.jpg" width="133" /></a> <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18488433-the-storyspinner?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="The Storyspinner (The Keepers' Chronicles, #1)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1398171444l/18488433.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<div>
<h3>
If you are looking for a stand alone title...</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23567756-crow-moon?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="The Memory Key" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1404494598l/17697565.jpg" width="132" /><img alt="Crow Moon" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1421143201l/23567756.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
<h3>
If you are looking for Novellas...</h3>
<div align="center">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23507358-the-wizard-returns?ac=1" target="_blank"><img alt="Harmonic (Dissonance, #1.5)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1420938570l/22604923.jpg" width="133" /> <img alt="The Wizard Returns (Dorothy Must Die, #0.3)" height="200" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1420311928l/23507358.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
I have at least four of these bad boys already queued up in my Kindle, #SelfChallenge #ReadALLTHEBOOKS<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm2E-vfU-i0MOJh2MhWu2YvSIJApCnEknzO02fN6sJPbNj0N33HcnvbYdimHCUQuTnNLZhK0If_c2robJdzjEjpVVtc_i8TnvqHeO2XxHdODaftkhQsvmsqVGn663yDFJbHdArU4dMSsYN/s1600/New+Signature.jpg" /></div>
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Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2897777812787333518.post-55623691495693668972015-02-28T06:00:00.000-08:002015-02-28T06:00:06.648-08:00Harry Potter POP Vinyl Collection on Sale this July!<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Print" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1174362" height="87" src="http://www.mugglenet.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Harry-Potter-Funko-Pop-Vinyl-Figure-Rendering.jpg" width="400" /></div>
<br />
A.K.A. the main reason to keep living on this green earth. I am a POP vinyl collector. There is something about the small cute figurines that just grab my attention and make me pull out my wallet. Currently I have 13 Pops residing at my house, and this number is soon to increase (well, this July at any rate).<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;">My Crew:<br />
<br />
<img alt="" class="fbPhotoImage img" height="225" id="fbPhotoImage" src="https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/s720x720/10383665_851924674860391_8649888337646726901_n.jpg?oh=0498fbc350048749a6c761b44ada7802&oe=5584F3D1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(from left to right) Raven, Superman, Crowley (Supernatural), Goku, Charlie (Supernatural), Castiel (Supernatural), Darryl (Walking Dead), Daenerys Targaryen (GOT), Emmett Brown (Back to the Future), Marty (Back to the Future), Miku, Joker Batman, and finally, with the one ring to rule them all, Sauron.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I present to you, The Harry Potter Pop Vinyl Collection:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" class="fbPhotoImage img" height="400" id="fbPhotoImage" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/1012989_860310437355148_5194790771793091095_n.jpg?oh=7311b83f3264ff8044289a6be9b49dac&oe=557E5A7D&__gda__=1431382317_2fb9d03b75fc8241adffcf3de80d7ef8" width="400" /></div>
First things first, they look AMAZING. I mean look at that level of detail! I am absolutely in love with Dumbledore's Pop, and I love that they all have wands. I also love the detail of Hagrid being taller than all the others. Ron looks so pasty, Hermione looks amazing, and I love Harry's glasses. Snape looks just as mean as I remember him being, and that just delights me.<br />
<br />
So, who is missing in this picture? Fred & George for one. I would LOVE to have those silly kids in my collection (maybe wearing the famous F & G shirts their mom makes them for Christmas?), Luna Lovegood (PLEASE), Neville (hmmm, eh), Bellatrix (YESSS), etc.<br />
<br />
Most importantly, the Dark Lord is missing, and you know you would not want to make the Dark Lord feel excluded and get him all mad, so Pop Vinyl is also making him a POP so he can give us all nightmares for years to come:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGDddJL-_uOJisrFvIKUDnwebEHMiRtozMTLpOhIDa8_pWI7zUz58ac7FMwsW9oAfFJtpc_HzF5QN1euXTrTJt7Yn5b5K2uBUabpkSgL3PT7UXyNC83RUjRo0u5MviT-Uwhlk-sKJ6CQQ/s1600/Pop.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGDddJL-_uOJisrFvIKUDnwebEHMiRtozMTLpOhIDa8_pWI7zUz58ac7FMwsW9oAfFJtpc_HzF5QN1euXTrTJt7Yn5b5K2uBUabpkSgL3PT7UXyNC83RUjRo0u5MviT-Uwhlk-sKJ6CQQ/s1600/Pop.png" /></a></div>
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No picture of the actual POP yet, but this is something we can work with. I wish he had his famous smile plastered but oh well I still like the depiction of Voldemort. This July I am going to be like a kid at a candy store when I see all those POPs hit the store, my grin is going to be bigger than that one time Voldie thought he'd won the war and actually smiled.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoVChpmnyjOUQnN0wB-_Imj06veyiAcm-SR-uij_wXX67_0gbRhbaDL9N5TR1U1vgLsgNAakwSX-r6GmYAg5-lY477K1qHWnbsE1FjpZUVwTN_T88vZdAmlQ7bsROOH7e5dpSSRhqiarU/s1600/BGtXMecCMAIiARa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoVChpmnyjOUQnN0wB-_Imj06veyiAcm-SR-uij_wXX67_0gbRhbaDL9N5TR1U1vgLsgNAakwSX-r6GmYAg5-lY477K1qHWnbsE1FjpZUVwTN_T88vZdAmlQ7bsROOH7e5dpSSRhqiarU/s1600/BGtXMecCMAIiARa.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
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July can't get here fast enough.</div>
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PS; I have no association with POP whatsoever, I wish, but I want to believe these POPs might be about $12-13 a pop. Better start saving up people!</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm2E-vfU-i0MOJh2MhWu2YvSIJApCnEknzO02fN6sJPbNj0N33HcnvbYdimHCUQuTnNLZhK0If_c2robJdzjEjpVVtc_i8TnvqHeO2XxHdODaftkhQsvmsqVGn663yDFJbHdArU4dMSsYN/s1600/New+Signature.jpg" />Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2897777812787333518.post-84647470377830942492015-02-26T10:30:00.001-08:002015-02-26T10:30:12.034-08:00So I Started Reading A Wicked Thing by Rhiannon Thomas...<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="A Wicked Thing (A Wicked Thing, #1)" height="320" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1404899924l/22535481.jpg" width="211" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22535481-a-wicked-thing">Goodreads</a></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"She woke up with a kiss.<br />Not a bird-singing, heart-stopping, world-ending sort of kiss. A light spot of pressure on her lips.<br />Aurora opened her eyes.<br />A stranger loomed above her. A boy. He stared at her. "I did it," he said. "I actually did it."<br />Aurora screamed."</blockquote>
<div align="center">
--</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Aurora tried to picture them, countless strangers, coming into her tower and kissing her while she slept. Princes and nobles, people she had never spoken to, men now old or dead, all bowing before her, pressing their lips to hers, expecting her to gasp in delight and open her eyes again. An itch crawled under her skin, like something foreign, something unwanted, had nestled inside her."</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-- </div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"What had happened to make people obsess over a fairy tale? To make a prince believe a single kiss meant true love, and that a girl who knew so little could mean so much?"</blockquote>
<br />
<strong>A Wicked Thing</strong> has turned out to be a much better read that I thought it would be. I know that sounds bad, but lately I have just have had no luck with fairy tale retellings. Specially when the authors try to modernize them and they just fall short. So it is a nice surprise that <strong>A Wicked Thing</strong> seems (so far) to be nailing it. While Aurora is a little more timid than I usually prefer in my lead females, her character and behavior is one that we can understand. She has been sheltered her whole life, raised to behave a certain way and follow rules of etiquette that are way old fashioned. Through <strong>A Wicked Lovely</strong> you get to see her break out of her shell and try to adjust to a world that is seemingly both like and unlike her old world. She is disoriented but she is quickly learning the rules of the game they play at court. It is a retelling of the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale that doesn't shy away from the ugly truths. Romance is not perfect, the future will not turn out like you think it might, and not all princesses get a fairy tale ending.<br />
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I am liking this retelling so far. Halfway through, I hope our princess learns to stand up for herself, and her people, by the end.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm2E-vfU-i0MOJh2MhWu2YvSIJApCnEknzO02fN6sJPbNj0N33HcnvbYdimHCUQuTnNLZhK0If_c2robJdzjEjpVVtc_i8TnvqHeO2XxHdODaftkhQsvmsqVGn663yDFJbHdArU4dMSsYN/s1600/New+Signature.jpg" />Natascha De Marcohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13518786455521515538noreply@blogger.com