Waiting on Wednesday (12) - Strands of Bronze and Gold by Jane Nickerson

Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Breaking the Spine, and it's where you post a book you are eagerly awaiting.

Strands of Bronze and Gold by Jane Nickerson

Hits Shelves on March 12, 2013

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Synopsis
The Bluebeard fairy tale retold. . . .

When seventeen-year-old Sophia Petheram’s beloved father dies, she receives an unexpected letter. An invitation—on fine ivory paper, in bold black handwriting—from the mysterious Monsieur Bernard de Cressac, her godfather. With no money and fewer options, Sophie accepts, leaving her humble childhood home for the astonishingly lavish Wyndriven Abbey, in the heart of Mississippi.

Sophie has always longed for a comfortable life, and she finds herself both attracted to and shocked by the charm and easy manners of her overgenerous guardian. But as she begins to piece together the mystery of his past, it’s as if, thread by thread, a silken net is tightening around her. And as she gathers stories and catches whispers of his former wives—all with hair as red as her own—in the forgotten corners of the abbey, Sophie knows she’s trapped in the passion and danger of de Cressac’s intoxicating world.

Glowing strands of romance, mystery, and suspense are woven into this breathtaking debut—a thrilling retelling of the “Bluebeard” fairy tale. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

Besides that stunning cover, my main reason for wanting to read this book is that it's a Bluebeard retelling. For those of you unfamiliar with the Bluebeard folktale, Bluebeard is a violent nobleman who has a habit of killing his wives. He is greatly feared and avoided because of his blue beard, and, at first, he has trouble convincing another woman to marry him, but he finally succeeds. Before going away on a trip, he gives his new wife the keys to every room in his chateau, but he expressly forbids her to enter one particular room. The wife is overcome with curiosity, and she unlocks the room, only to find the dead bodies of all of her husband's former wives.

So, on that horrific note, this book should make for a fascinating tale! I can't wait to see how this turns out.

What are you waiting for this week?

Review: The Dark Half by Stephen King

Title: The Dark Half 
Author: Stephen King
Published: November 1, 1989
Publisher: Viking Adult
Genre: Adult Horror
Pages: 431
Source: Borrowed
Rating: 5 stars
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

“But writers INVITE ghosts, maybe; along with actors and
artists, they are the only totally accepted mediums of our society. They make worlds that never
were, populate them with people who never existed, and then invite us to join them in their
fantasies. And we do it, don't we? Yes. We PAY to do it.”
― Stephen King, The Dark Half

Synopsis
In 1985, 39-year-old Stephen King announced in public that his pseudonymous alter ego, Richard Bachman, was dead. (Never mind that he revived him years later to write The Regulators.)

At the beginning of The Dark Half (1989), 39-year-old writer Thad Beaumont announces in public that his own pseudonym, George Stark, is dead.

Now, King didn't want to jettison the Bachman novel, titled Machine Dreams, that he was working on. So he incorporated it in The Dark Half as the crime oeuvre of George Stark, whose recurring hero/alter ego is an evil character named Alexis Machine.

Thad Beaumont's pseudonym is not so docile as Stephen King's, though, and George Stark bursts forth into reality. At that point, two stories kick into gear: a mystery-detective story about the crime spree of George Stark (or is it Alexis Machine?) and a horror story about Beaumont's struggle to catch up with his doppelganger and kill him dead. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts
Let me first preface this review by saying I worship Stephen King (pardon me if that sounds sacrilegious). I want to marry his mind. I'm usually a very open-minded individual who tries to respect others' opinions, but all of that goes out the window when it comes to King. I will defend his books until I'm in my grave, and I don't care if I'm being dramatic. It's the truth. My family loves Stephen King. My mom read me his books when I was in the womb. I was not allowed to read his works till I was older, but since then, I have enjoyed every single one of them that I have read thus far. And I will read every last one. Now that I've sang my praises for him, I guess I'll continue with an actual book review.

Review: Eon by Alison Goodman

Title: Eon 
Author: Alison Goodman
Published: December 26, 2008
Publisher: Puffin Canada
Series: Eon #1
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Pages: 531
Source: Purchased
Rating: 5 stars
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

“I found power in accepting the truth of who I am. It may not be a truth that others can accept, but I cannot live any other way. How would it be to live a lie every minute of your life.”
― Alison Goodman, Eon: Dragoneye Reborn

Synopsis
Eon has been studying the ancient art of Dragon Magic for four years, hoping he’ll become apprentice to one of the twelve energy dragons of good fortune. But he also has a dark secret. He is actually Eona, a sixteen-year-old girl who has been living a dangerous lie for the chance to become a Dragoneye, the human link to an energy dragon’s power. It is forbidden for females to practice the Dragon Magic and, if discovered, Eon faces a terrible death. But after a brilliant sword ceremony, Eon is catapulted into the treacherous world of the Imperial court, where his desperate lie comes to light. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts
Eon was nothing short of fantastic. I'm ashamed to admit that it took me almost an entire week to finish this book because I really should have been reading through it at a rip roaring pace. This week was more hectic than I imagined, so I had to put down this book against my will time and time again.

Just when I was wishing for a jaw dropping fantasy, Eon appeared like magic. This was an epic read I want to see turned into a movie. The attention to detail was amazing. The vivid descriptions of the Asian-inspired architecture and culture wowed me time and time again. The world Goodman built lacked nothing. History, religion, tradition, and culture were all skillfully interwoven. I loved the apartments decorated with painted screens, the beautiful robes the lords wore, and the rituals everyone painstakingly observed. The palace itself was amazing to read about with all its splendor. Every little gesture and symbol had significance, and I was crazy about it. Plus, the rich history made for some wonderful storytelling.

Catherynne M. Valente Reading and Book Signing

So, yesterday I met Catherynne M. Valente at my local bookstore! For those of you who are unfamiliar with her work, Cat Valente wrote The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making and The Girl Who Fell Beneath Fairyland and Led the Revels There. She also wrote a bunch of other books, but these are her recent ones.

Yes, I know, both those titles are quite the mouthful. I have yet to read these books (I just bought them recently so I could get them signed). But I'm so excited to! Look at those gorgeous covers.

Cat Valente and me

Cat Valente read from both books in the Fairyland series, but she read more from the sequel. There was also musical entertainment. Her friend S.J. sang songs that were inspired by the books and the various characters. There was even a sing-along sea shanty (well, river shanty). Valente was so nice, and I was thrilled to meet her. I will definitely be reading these books soon. 

Here's the awesome book trailer for The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making!

The singer in this video is S.J. who sang last night at the reading. She was great! Here's her site: http://www.skinnywhitechick.com/

Top Ten Books to Get Into the Halloween Spirit (9)

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted over at The Broke and the Bookish. Every week, you post a Top Ten list following a bookish theme. This week's Top Ten Tuesday is:

Top Ten Books to Get Into the Halloween Spirit

1. Pet Sematary by Stephen King - Just like almost every other King book, Pet Sematary is terrifying. I could not read this book at night. I had nightmares. I mean, what wouldn't be creepy about animals, and people, coming back to life not entirely their old selves? As in, I will kill you in your sleep or stare at you creepily. I could make this whole list Stephen King, but I'll give some variety.

2. Heart-Shaped Box by Joe Hill - From Stephen King's son, Heart-Shaped Box is a haunting read. Basically, a rock star buys a ghost off of an auction site. This is not just any ghost, but a vengeance seeking spirit. This book will definitely have you afraid of things that go bump in the night.

3. The Passage by Justin Cronin - Cronin's vampires do not sparkle in the daytime. They are deadly. That's why I love this book. It terrified me and thrilled me, and it was such a dark, horrific read. 

4. The Fall of the House of Usher by Edgar Allan Poe - If I want creepy, I always turn to Poe. I'm in love with his mind. And this tale is one of my favorites. It's great to read during a thunderstorm in the dark of night. If you have a raven sitting on your chamber door, it's even better.

5. The Woman in Black by Susan Hill - While it wasn't as scary as the movie, The Woman in Black was still a frightening read. I was afraid to be alone at night. I mean, in a strange way, you could look at this book as a great example of woman's power. Don't mess with a woman or she'll go crazy and kill off the town's children. Great lesson. She definitely knows how to keep a grudge. 

6. The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde - One of my favorite books. It's a psychological thriller and has some creeptastic moments. You're so vain. You probably think this song is about you. Don't you? That's Dorian's anthem.

7. The Call of Cthulhu by H.P. Lovecraft - If you're looking for some great horror, just pick up some Lovecraft. It will definitely put you in the Halloween spirit.

8. Dracula by Bram Stoker - This is near and dear to my heart. It's a classic everyone should read, even if they don't like vampires. So we can all hate Mina together.

9. Frankenstein by Mary Shelley - Another horrific classic. I'm seeing a trend here. When I go for horror, I go back to my old favorites. 

10. Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice - I have yet to read this entire series which I deeply regret. But  I definitely recommend the first book. The vampires are graceful and beautiful, but also deadly killers. The movie's a must see too! Brad Pitt, Antonio Banderas, Kirsten Dunst, and Tom Cruise all as vampires! Awesomesauce.

I could go on and on, but that would be annoying and cheating. So that's my Top Ten! I really enjoyed this one because I love Halloween and scary books! 

How about you? What scary books would you recommend?

Review: Mystic City by Theo Lawrence

Title: Mystic City 
Author: Theo Lawrence
Published: October 9, 2012
Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Series: Mystic City #1
Genre: Young Adult Dystopian
Pages: 397
Source: Purchased
Rating: 3 stars
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

“I always knew this story would break my heart”
― Theo Lawrence, Mystic City

Synopsis
Aria Rose, youngest scion of one of Mystic City's two ruling rival families, finds herself betrothed to Thomas Foster, the son of her parents' sworn enemies. The union of the two will end the generations-long political feud—and unite all those living in the Aeries, the privileged upper reaches of the city, against the banished mystics who dwell below in the Depths.

But Aria doesn't remember falling in love with Thomas; in fact, she wakes one day with huge gaps in her memory. And she can't conceive why her parents would have agreed to unite with the Fosters in the first place.

Only when Aria meets Hunter, a gorgeous rebel mystic from the Depths, does she start to have glimmers of recollection—and to understand that he holds the key to unlocking her past. The choices she makes can save or doom the city—including herself. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts
I have been eagerly anticipating Mystic City for a long time. The premise and cover together had me very excited for its release. The world building left nothing to be desired. Manhattan is completely reimagined into a mystical world divided between the people above and the people below. The rich and famous live far above the streets in dazzling skyscrapers soaring above the ground. The Aeries remain untouched by the destruction left behind by the climate change, and the buildings are connected by bridges and lightrails. The privileged never use the PODs (points of descent) to descend below. The PODs are for the servants that live far below in the Depths. The Depths are filled with the poor and the Mystics. The Mystics are prejudiced against because they possess unnatural powers and are perceived as a threat. Every Mystic must be registered and drained twice a year, but some undrained Mystics remain in hiding, escaping the power draining. The Mystics were sort of like X-Men, as they all possess different powers and are pretty much kickass. For the most part, they can heal but they also have unique abilities such as walking through buildings or summoning storms.

Book Blog Tour: The Violet Fox by Clare C. Marshall Review & Giveaway

Hi! Thanks for stopping by The Violet Fox Book Blog Tour!

This is my first book blog tour, and I'm very excited! It was so much fun, and I loved talking with Marshall and reading The Violet Fox! Today's stop will have a book review and a chance to win The Violet Fox and other goodies in a giveaway.

Title: The Violet Fox 
Author: Clare C. Marshall
Published: October 13, 2012
Publisher: Faery Ink Press
Series: The Violet Fox #1
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Pages: 288 pages
Source: Author (for book blog tour)
Rating: 3 stars
Goodreads | Amazon | Smashwords

Synopsis
There are two kinds of people in the land of Marlenia. The Marlenians, who live on the surface, and the Freetors, who are forced to live underground. The war between them ended two hundred years ago, but the Freetors still fight for the right to live under the sun. Fifteen-year-old Kiera Driscoll embodies the Freetors’ hopes as the Violet Fox. In a violet cape and mask, she sneaks around Marlenia City stealing food and freeing her people from slavery.

Then the Elders task her with a secret mission: retrieve a stolen tome that contains the secrets of Freetor magic, something the Marlenians both fear and covet. Kiera must disguise herself as a noblewoman and infiltrate the Marlenian castle before the Freetor-hating Advisor finds out her real identity, before her brother is imprisoned because of the secrets he hides, and before she falls any more in love with the prince she’s supposed to hate.

More is happening in the castle than she realizes, and Kiera is faced with a difficult choice. Will she be loyal to her people and their fight for freedom, or will she be loyal to her heart? (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

The Violet Fox was a delightful read. When I first read the premise, I knew this was my type of read. It has action, adventure, romance, and a strong heroine. Kiera is far from a weakling. She takes many risks, stealing as the Violet Fox, so that her people won't starve. Times are rough in the Undercity where the Freetors live. Food is scarce, and Fighters have to go on missions to the surface to steal food. The little food they steal is then rationed. If a Freetor is caught above, they are enslaved, left in the dungeon to rot, or killed in a public execution. Despite all of these dangers, Kiera continues to put her life on the line out of her concern for others. She may be reckless at times, but you have to admire her bravery and toughness. I certainly did. She seemed so much older than her fifteen years. 

Waiting on Wednesday (11) - Dark Triumph by Robin LaFevers

It is that time of the week! Wednesday! We're halfway through the week. Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Breaking the Spine. It is where bloggers can share a book they are eagerly waiting for.

Dark Triumph by Robin LaFevers

Hits Shelves on April 2, 2013

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Synopsis
Sybella arrives at the convent’s doorstep half mad with grief and despair. Those that serve Death are only too happy to offer her refuge—but at a price. Naturally skilled in both the arts of death and seduction, the convent views Sybella as one of their most dangerous weapons.

But those assassin’s skills are little comfort when the convent returns her to a life that nearly drove her mad. Her father’s rage and brutality are terrifying, and her brother’s love is equally monstrous. And while Sybella is a weapon of justice wrought by the god of Death himself, He must give her a reason to live. When she discovers an unexpected ally imprisoned in the dungeons, will a daughter of Death find something other than vengeance to live for?

This heart-pounding sequel to Grave Mercy serves betrayal, treachery, and danger in equal measure, bringing readers back to fifteenth century Brittany and will keep them on the edge of their seats. (Goodreads)

Why I'm Waiting 

I loved Grave Mercy. It has been awhile since I've encountered any historical fiction. And then this series presented itself. I'm beyond excited for the sequel, Dark Triumph. The cover is stunning, and I'm a huge fan of Sybella. She's one tough cookie. Not to mention, I'm loving that the series will consist of companion novels and that the third book will star Annith. Can't wait!

What's your WoW this week?

Review: Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers

Title: Grave Mercy 
Author: Robin LaFevers
Published: April 3, 2012
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Series: His Fair Assassin #1
Genre: Young Adult Historical Fiction, Fantasy
Pages: 549
Source: Library
Rating: 4 stars
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

“When one consorts with assassins, one must expect to dance along the edge of a knife once or twice.”
― R.L. LaFevers, Grave Mercy

Synopsis
Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others.

Ismae’s most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart? (Goodreads)

My Thoughts
It has been far too long since I've read any historical fiction. Actually, that was a lie. I read The Dark Queen, set in Brittany under the rule of Catherine de Medici, last spring. It was an enjoyable read, and I certainly recommend it. Grave Mercy was the perfect choice for revisiting this genre, especially since it is a mix of fantasy and history. Luckily, I am a fan of both. The storytelling was excellent, and as far as I could tell, LaFevers researched this time period thoroughly. The vivid detailing of clothing, courtiers, and architecture made for an authenticity I greatly admired. The political intrigue also kept me reading, and that wonderful mystery of whodunnit. With Grave Mercy, suspects were everywhere in a court full of backstabbing, and the duchess of Brittany could never feel completely safe when her barons were easily bribed and a French ambassador lurked nearby.

Review: Shadowfell by Juliet Marillier

Title: Shadowfell 
Author: Juliet Marillier
Published: September 11, 2012
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers
Series: Shadowfell #1
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Pages: 410
Source: Purchased
Rating: 5 stars
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

“She went on because there was no going back.”
― Juliet Marillier, Shadowfell

Synopsis
Sixteen-year-old Neryn is alone in the land of Alban, where the oppressive king has ordered anyone with magical strengths captured and brought before him. Eager to hide her own canny skill—a uniquely powerful ability to communicate with the fairy-like Good Folk—Neryn sets out for the legendary Shadowfell, a home and training ground for a secret rebel group determined to overthrow the evil King Keldec.

During her dangerous journey, she receives aid from the Good Folk, who tell her she must pass a series of tests in order to recognize her full potential. She also finds help from a handsome young man, Flint, who rescues her from certain death—but whose motives in doing so remain unclear. Neryn struggles to trust her only allies. They both hint that she alone may be the key to Alban’s release from Keldec’s rule.

Homeless, unsure of who to trust, and trapped in an empire determined to crush her, Neryn must make it to Shadowfell not only to save herself, but to save Alban. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts
Shadowfell was fantasy at its finest. It's been far too long since I've read such a wonderful fantasy. I have yet to read any of Juliet Marillier's other books, but now I really want to read the Sevenwaters series (especially since I've heard such positive things). Shadowfell was written beautifully, and I savored every word. I fell in love with the land of Alban, despite all of the hardships the people endure in such dark times. I loved the names of the landmarks and bodies of water, from the mountains called the Three Hags to the town called Corbie's Wood. For me, it was reminiscent of Tolkien's Middle Earth.

Review: The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

Title: The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer 
Author: Michelle Hodkin
Published: September 27, 2011
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
Series: Mara Dyer #1
Genre: Young Adult Paranormal
Pages: 466
Source: Purchased
Rating: 3 stars
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

“Thinking something does not make it true. Wanting something does not make it real.”
― Michelle Hodkin, The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer

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

It can.

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

There is.

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

She’s wrong. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts
With that mysterious synopsis, it was hard for me to guess what I was in for with The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer. It could have been man-eating goats as far as I was concerned. It's difficult for me to reveal anything about the book without spoiling something. So, I'll just leave out anything too concrete.

In reviews I've read, everybody has mentioned how strange this book is. It is strange, but I didn't mind. I loved the darker twists and the weirdness definitely added a creepy factor. To be honest, I wouldn't have cared if it was even weirder. In The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer, we're allowed to explore Mara's mind thoroughly. Mara suffers from PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) after a horrible accident she can barely remember. I loved that it was a psychological thriller, and after reading this, I almost felt tempted to whip out my huge Abnormal Psychology textbook and read up on PTSD again. This book had me from the get-go. It was fast-paced, and my eyes were glued to the page, or my Ipad, as the mystery unraveled. I wanted all of my confusion cleared!

Waiting on Wednesday (10) - Let The Sky Fall by Shannon Messenger

Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Breaking the Spine. Each Wednesday, you post a book that you cannot wait for, but, alas, you have to wait for anyway.

Let the Sky Fall by Shannon Messenger

Hits Shelves on March 5, 2013

Add to Goodreads

Synopsis
Seventeen-year-old Vane Weston has no idea how he survived the category five tornado that killed his parents. And he has no idea if the beautiful, dark-haired girl who’s swept through his dreams every night since the storm is real. But he hopes she is.

Seventeen-year-old Audra is a sylph, an air elemental. She walks on the wind, can translate its alluring songs, and can even coax it into a weapon with a simple string of commands. She’s also a guardian—Vane’s guardian—and has sworn an oath to protect Vane at all costs. Even if it means sacrificing her own life.

When a hasty mistake reveals their location to the enemy who murdered both of their families, Audra’s forced to help Vane remember who he is. He has a power to claim—the secret language of the West Wind, which only he can understand. But unlocking his heritage will also unlock the memory Audra needs him to forget. And their greatest danger is not the warriors coming to destroy them—but the forbidden romance that’s grown between them. (Goodreads)

Why I'm Waiting
Forbidden romance? Sylphs? The secret language of the West Wind? Sign me up! Let the Sky Fall offers a unique premise, and the cover is stunning. Look at those colors! Plus, the guy's name is Vane. Like a weathervane. I love puns. I just have a good feeling about this book, and I'm so excited!

What's your WoW?

Top Ten Fictional Crushes (8)

Top Ten Tuesday is a meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish. It's where you post a top ten list based off of a bookish theme. This week's theme was a Top Ten Tuesday rewind, where you can pick a past topic that you missed or just wanted to revisit.

Amanda and I both chose Top Ten Fictional Crushes. This is going to be fun! I'll try to keep this PG-13.

Top Ten Fictional Crushes

1. Will Herondale (The Infernal Devices series by Cassandra Clare) - Of course, he's my numero uno. If Will Herondale existed in the real world, I would jump his Nephilim bones in a heartbeat. He is tall, dark, and dreamy. Or, at least, he is in my wild imagination.

2. Jace Lightwood (The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare) - He may score second to Will, but Jace is still swoonworthy. What can I say? I have a thing for bad boys. And, well, Jace likes to play with sharp things and kick a**. Not to mention, he is passionate and would defend his loved ones to the death. Come on, Clary, sharing is caring. 

3. Daemon Black (Lux series by Jennifer L. Armentrout) - I want to have your alien babies. I never thought I'd find extra-terrestrial hot after that little alien on a bicycle. E.T., go home. Plus, around you, I would never need a book light. You are a being of light. You literally could be the light of my life.

4. Raffe (Angelfall by Susan Ee) - I could be the wind beneath your wings, Raffe. With your witty banter and angelic face, who wouldn't fall for you? You may have some family issues, seeing as how your brethren are destroying planet Earth, but we could work it out.

5. Tobias Eaton (Divergent series by Veronica Roth) - You have only four fears and can kick butt. You would stick by me when crazy rebels and other factions are trying to tear us apart. That's devotion right there. And I can hold you in small places when you're claustrophobic.

6. Alden (Shattered Souls by Mary Lindsey) - You are such a sweet, adorable Protector. I want to be a Speaker, even with all the angry spirits I would have to deal with, just so you can be my Protector.

7. Finnikin (Finnikin of the Rock by Melina Marchetta) - Be still, my beating heart. I'm so jealous of Evanjalin.

8. Sam (Incarnate by Jodi Meadows) - You are a skilled pianist and a scholar. I love men with talent and knowledge. I know it takes longer for boys to mature, but you've been alive for centuries so I don't think that's a problem.

9. Jack (Blood Red Road by Moira Young) - You may seem like bad news, but you're all heart. You don't give up on a girl when you like her. Even if she pushes you away a million times. *cough* Saba..Plus, you have a great sense of humor and a fighting spirit.

10. Jesse (Mediator series by Meg Cabot) - You can say querida to me anytime you want. You may be a ghost and a little old-fashioned, but that cannot stop our love.

What's your Top Ten Tuesday Rewind?

Review: Destroy Me by Tahereh Mafi

Title: Destroy Me 
Author: Tahereh Mafi
Published: October 2, 2012
Publisher: HarperCollins
Series: Shatter Me #1.5
Genre: Young Adult Dystopian
Pages: 150
Source: Purchased
Rating: 3 stars
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

*Warning: This book review contains spoilers for Shatter Me*

“I’ve come to believe that the most dangerous man in the world is the one who feels no remorse. The one who never apologizes and therefore seeks no forgiveness. Because in the end it is our emotions that make us weak, not our actions.”
― Tahereh Mafi, Destroy Me

Synopsis
In Tahereh Mafi’s Shatter Me, Juliette escaped from The Reestablishment by seducing Warner—and then putting a bullet in his shoulder. But as she’ll learn in Destroy Me, Warner is not that easy to get rid of. . .

Back at the base and recovering from his near-fatal wound, Warner must do everything in his power to keep his soldiers in check and suppress any mention of a rebellion in the sector. Still as obsessed with Juliette as ever, his first priority is to find her, bring her back, and dispose of Adam and Kenji, the two traitors who helped her escape. But when Warner’s father, The Supreme Commander of The Reestablishment, arrives to correct his son’s mistakes, it’s clear that he has much different plans for Juliette. Plans Warner simply cannot allow.

Set after Shatter Me and before its forthcoming sequel, Unravel Me, Destroy Me is a novella told from the perspective of Warner, the ruthless leader of Sector 45. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts
Let me start off this review by saying I love Warner. I also love Adam, but for different reasons. Warner is so much more complex, and he is certifiably insane. As a psychology minor, I find him fascinating. For me, he's a case study. Does that sound cold? I mean, I do care about what happens to him. I felt horrible for him when Juliette shot him. He was so delusional that he never saw it coming.

Destroy Me shows Warner's side of things, and I was thrilled to enter Warner's mind. While it's clear in Shatter Me that Warner is obsessed with Juliette, we get to see how obsessed he really is in Destroy Me. And trust me, he's cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs. Through Warner's POV, his past actions are explained. Suddenly, the reader is able to understand Warner's behavior more and sympathize. We even see his softer side. But he still has a screw loose and could use some much needed therapy.

Review: Vampire Academy by Rochelle Mead

Title: Vampire Academy 
Author: Richelle Mead
Published: August 16, 2007
Publisher: Razorbill
Series: Vampire Academy #1
Genre: Young Adult Paranormal
Pages: 332
Source: Purchased
Rating: 2 stars
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

“Only a true best friend can protect you from your immortal enemies.”
― Richelle Mead, Vampire Academy

Synopsis
St. Vladimir’s Academy isn’t just any boarding school—it’s a hidden place where vampires are educated in the ways of magic and half-human teens train to protect them. Rose Hathaway is a Dhampir, a bodyguard for her best friend Lissa, a Moroi Vampire Princess. They’ve been on the run, but now they’re being dragged back to St. Vladimir’s—the very place where they’re most in danger...

Rose and Lissa become enmeshed in forbidden romance, the Academy’s ruthless social scene, and unspeakable nighttime rituals. But they must be careful lest the Strigoi—the world’s fiercest and most dangerous vampires—make Lissa one of them forever. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts
It finally happened. After looking at that cover, my instinct was to run. But I finally read Vampire Academy because everyone raved about it. After so many positive reviews, I figured I'd give it a try. Worst mistake ever. If only I had a TARDIS so I could go back in time and never buy this book.

What's Next? (1)

What's Next? is hosted over at IceyBooks. If you're having trouble choosing what book to read next, you can participate in this meme, asking people to vote on what book you should read. I've been indecisive lately so I decided to participate in this meme for the first time this week. 

Okay, here are the choices I'm torn between: 

The Raven Boys (Raven Cycle #1) by Maggie Stiefvater

It is freezing in the churchyard, even before the dead arrive.

Every year, Blue Sargent stands next to her clairvoyant mother as the soon-to-be dead walk past. Blue herself never sees them—not until this year, when a boy emerges from the dark and speaks directly to her.

His name is Gansey, and Blue soon discovers that he is a rich student at Aglionby, the local private school. Blue has a policy of staying away from Aglionby boys. Known as Raven Boys, they can only mean trouble.

But Blue is drawn to Gansey, in a way she can’t entirely explain. He has it all—family money, good looks, devoted friends—but he’s looking for much more than that. He is on a quest that has encompassed three other Raven Boys: Adam, the scholarship student who resents all the privilege around him; Ronan, the fierce soul who ranges from anger to despair; and Noah, the taciturn watcher of the four, who notices many things but says very little.

For as long as she can remember, Blue has been warned that she will cause her true love to die. She never thought this would be a problem. But now, as her life becomes caught up in the strange and sinister world of the Raven Boys, she’s not so sure anymore.

Shadowfell (Shadowfell #1) by Juliet Marillier

Sixteen-year-old Neryn is alone in the land of Alban, where the oppressive king has ordered anyone with magical strengths captured and brought before him. Eager to hide her own canny skill—a uniquely powerful ability to communicate with the fairy-like Good Folk—Neryn sets out for the legendary Shadowfell, a home and training ground for a secret rebel group determined to overthrow the evil King Keldec.

During her dangerous journey, she receives aid from the Good Folk, who tell her she must pass a series of tests in order to recognize her full potential. She also finds help from a handsome young man, Flint, who rescues her from certain death—but whose motives in doing so remain unclear. Neryn struggles to trust her only allies. They both hint that she alone may be the key to Alban’s release from Keldec’s rule. Homeless, unsure of who to trust, and trapped in an empire determined to crush her, Neryn must make it to Shadowfell not only to save herself, but to save Alban.

Girl of Nightmares by Kendare Blake

It's been months since the ghost of Anna Korlov opened a door to Hell in her basement and disappeared into it, but ghost-hunter Cas Lowood can't move on.

His friends remind him that Anna sacrificed herself so that Cas could live—not walk around half dead. He knows they're right, but in Cas's eyes, no living girl he meets can compare to the dead girl he fell in love with.

Now he's seeing Anna everywhere: sometimes when he's asleep and sometimes in waking nightmares. But something is very wrong...these aren't just daydreams. Anna seems tortured, torn apart in new and ever more gruesome ways every time she appears.

Cas doesn't know what happened to Anna when she disappeared into Hell, but he knows she doesn't deserve whatever is happening to her now. Anna saved Cas more than once, and it's time for him to return the favor.

Kushiel's Dart (Phèdre's Trilogy #1) by Jacqueline Carey

The land of Terre d'Ange is a place of unsurpassing beauty and grace. It is said that angels found the land and saw it was good...and the ensuing race that rose from the seed of angels and men live by one simple rule: Love as thou wilt.

Phèdre nó Delaunay is a young woman who was born with a scarlet mote in her left eye. Sold into indentured servitude as a child, her bond is purchased by Anafiel Delaunay, a nobleman with very a special mission...and the first one to recognize who and what she is: one pricked by Kushiel's Dart, chosen to forever experience pain and pleasure as one.

Phèdre is trained equally in the courtly arts and the talents of the bedchamber, but, above all, the ability to observe, remember, and analyze. Almost as talented a spy as she is courtesan, Phèdre stumbles upon a plot that threatens the very foundations of her homeland. Treachery sets her on her path; love and honor goad her further. And in the doing, it will take her to the edge of despair...and beyond. Hateful friend, loving enemy, beloved assassin; they can all wear the same glittering mask in this world, and Phèdre will get but one chance to save all that she holds dear.

What should I read next? HELP ME!

Review: The Cavendish Home For Boys and Girls by Claire Legrand

Title: The Cavendish Home for Boys and Girls
Author: Claire Legrand
Published: August 28, 2012
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Genre: Children's Fantasy
Pages: 352
Source: Purchased
Rating: 5 stars
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

“But it's hard to leave a place when you're tied to it by fear, when it's broken you with fear, when it's all you've ever known.”
― Claire Legrand, The Cavendish Home for Boys and Girls

Synopsis
Victoria hates nonsense. There is no need for it when your life is perfect. The only smudge on her pristine life is her best friend Lawrence. He is a disaster—lazy and dreamy, shirt always untucked, obsessed with his silly piano. Victoria often wonders why she ever bothered being his friend. (Lawrence does too.)

But then Lawrence goes missing. And he’s not the only one. Victoria soon discovers that The Cavendish Home for Boys and Girls is not what it appears to be. Kids go in but come out…different. Or they don’t come out at all.

If anyone can sort this out, it’s Victoria—even if it means getting a little messy. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts
The Cavendish Home for Boys and Girls was such a spooktacular, shiver-inducing book. All of your childhood fears, from creepy crawlies to failure to the dark, are brought to life in this dark fantasy. Well, these are still fears held by many adults, making it the perfect book for readers of all ages, not just children. Although it's reminiscent of Coraline, The Cavendish Home for Boys and Girls had its own unique, twisted plot.

Waiting on Wednesday (9) - City of a Thousand Dolls by Miriam Forster

My favorite time of the week! Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Breaking the Spine. It's where you post a book you are lusting after. A book you cannot wait to be released!

City of a Thousand Dolls by Miriam Forster
Hits Shelves on February 5, 2013
Add to Goodreads

Synopsis
Nisha was abandoned at the gates of the City of a Thousand Dolls when she was just a child. Now sixteen, she lives on the grounds of the isolated estate, where orphan girls apprentice as musicians, healers, courtesans, and, if the rumors are true, assassins. Nisha makes her way as Matron’s assistant, her closest companions the mysterious cats that trail her shadow. Only when she begins a forbidden flirtation with the city’s handsome young courier does she let herself imagine a life outside the walls. Until one by one, girls around her start to die.

Before she becomes the next victim, Nisha decides to uncover the secrets that surround the girls’ deaths. But by getting involved, Nisha jeopardizes not only her own future in the City of a Thousand Dolls—but her own life. (Goodreads)

Why I'm Waiting
I am so excited for this book and impatient for its release! That cover is gorgeous. Not to mention, I'm loving the premise. Sounds different and exciting! Bring it on!

What are you waiting for?