The Vampire Diaries 1 - The Awakening

Summary from Goodreads

 Love Triangle of Unspeakable Horror...

Elena
Searching for the ultimate thrill, she vowed to have Stefan.

Stefan
Haunted by his tragic past, he struggled to resist her passion.

Damon
Driven by revenge, he hunted the brother who betrayed him.

The terrifying story of two vampire brothers and the beautiful girl torn between them.

My Review

This will be the first time that I'll say that the TV adaptation turned out better than the book. I have read this long ago, even before I started watching the series and obviously, I preferred the TV series. But to be fair and all, I'll try to make this review unbiased by not comparing it from the TV series. (*crossfingers)

Being cliche as it is, the story is unusual among my common reads -- Queen bee meets the cool vampire. Well, firstly, the leading lady usually is the tame one, the one no one notices or hates to be noticed. But her character here is exactly the opposite -- she's the most popular one and loves the attention. Then there's Stefan, he's so handssooommmmeeee..Paul Wesley portrays Stefan soooo weeelll... (ok ok! I am sorry.. I'm comparing...I'll stop now) Well, back to book-Stefan. He was portrayed here as weak. burdened by guilt and misery that he can't see what's already in front of him. The two are quite an unusual pair, Elena's the one doing the chasing making her looks like a self-centered b*tch. She ends up being selfish in this book and her love for Stefan seems to be just an infatuation. As for Stefan, though this is told in a third person POV, I haven't gotten much about him. Fortunately, it helped in his mysterious character. And Damon, Ian Sommerhalder's character is a better Damon! (I'm sorry! I am trying here... but isn't Ian the best vampire ever?) For this book -- Ian, oh I mean Damon, is purely the bad guy, simple as it is :( and his character wasn't developed much.

Since I have finished reading the first 3 books of this series, I want to base my judgment as a whole story. It's a really good story, but as a single book, it's not. A reader has to know the full picture and know what is really going on before he/she gets hooked up with it. 

With regards to the cover, it's not really enticing. In my opinion, this book deserves a better cover.

Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover

Colleen Hoover did it again! A new love story that surpasses other love stories. With books like this, it’s hard to look for the next book to top it up. This book made me feel like I’ve been reading lots of boring love stories. It amazes me how Ms. Hoover could create such a heart wrenching and super romantic love story. She’s one of the few authors who could write a book, put the title in the cover, with plane background and could still capture tons of readers. I think, being a “Hoover book” is enough.

The title is so perfect for the story.

When Tate decided to temporarily leave with his older brother, he met Miles Archer. Even starting on the wrong foot, Tate can’t deny the attraction she feels for Miles. The mystery, the silence and the man who never had a woman beside him for 6 years got Tate want him more. But when Miles showed the same attraction towards her, everything gets complicated.

Miles don’t want anything other than the physical contact. 2 rules, no questions about his past and no expectations in the future. And Tate would get anything she could get even if agreeing with this rules, even if she’s seeing a tragedy in the making.

“Love isn’t always pretty, Tate”

It’s not a typical love story. It won’t give butterflies in the stomach and make you giddy with love. It’s not really a light reading, it contains heavy emotions and a very hot and strong attraction. It’s not a teen love story, instead, a very mature one with heavy emotional baggage on the side.

I find Tate a strong and independent woman. A woman with her own career and can stand on her own, so I’m quite surprised to see her agreeing with Miles. I believe she deserves better than that. But I guess the saying is true “You deserve what you think you deserve.” I guess Tate is expecting for more, there’s this hope deep inside her that it could be more between her and Miles.

What made a very successful man close out? Honestly speaking, I got frustrated with Miles with all the drama in his life. I can’t imagine how dark his past is to deny love like what’s Tate is offering! It’s just that, I can see for myself how good they are together, he can see it too but he keeps pushing Tate away. It came to a point where I would rather Tate leave him be and find someone better. But as I keep reading and found out how Rachel broke him (I was starting to hate Rachel,) I realize Miles has a good reason. Uhmm, not really good but good as it can be. I think I can’t judge Miles after finding out his past.

Other than these two, I enjoyed Cap’s character as well. He’s like the wisdom in this book. The parent figure that gives rationality in their story. He always has the “quotable quotes”

An emotional story about grief, forgiveness, moving on, second chances and moving on. It would make you admire people who have experienced and survive this kind of love. 

R2R - Divine Vices by Melissa Parkin

This book clawed its way in my heart page by page. It started slow, really slow. But it never got boring. There’s a lot happening in the story that there’s no time for me to feel any boredom. Though I was kind of getting frustrated waiting for the climax of the story. I’m already halfway and it’s still about the chase of Jackson Matthews to Cassie. I could feel the looming danger ahead, the dark mystery of Cassie’s past and Jackson as well, but it seems like I can’t reach it. But when the climatic event came, boy, did it came. It’s so full, intense and breath taking that I’m getting tired just reading all of it. Ms. Parkin defined plot twist into a whole new level! I would like to talk more about this twist, but I would like the reader to enjoy it themselves. Haha!

Cassie’s character is the typical heroine. A beautiful girl who thinks of herself as ordinary. Had a sad life due to what happened in the past. She has her sidekicks, which are Gwen and Ian which are equally unique and entertaining to read. They both gave life in this book as well. I even thought Gwen would make this whole story into a Nancy Drew mystery novel with her bubbly detective character. I enjoyed the banter of Cassie and Jack. Jack successfully brought Cassie out of her shell but in a really annoying way.  I was torn between loving and getting annoyed with him! Seriously! He’s a knight in shining armor in the making but we can’t deny that he’s sort of a jerk! Haha! Sorry Jackson, but that’s the way you are made. Well, when everything were cleared, when the real motivations were revealed, and all else came to the open, how the characters are, were justified. Sadly, I feel like half of the book was wasted with minor things and for me, the book actually started on the second half so the 2^nd half became overwhelming with information. But still it’s just a matter or arranging the plot and events, but in general, the book came out really good.

This book is a perfect blend of mystery, fantasy, horror, some drama, comedy and love story. What I enjoyed most in this story is how the story was fitted to some biblical events. It shows how much research was made in the book. It’s a story that tells about demons, angels, nephilims and urban legends. It’s like Dan Brown meets Stephenie Meyer and Cassandra Clare type of book.

It’s the first book of Meliisa Parkin and I was requested to write a review for it. I’ve seen the plot and it’s really good so I accepted. I haven’t seen much review form this book other than those given with ARC same as me. This book reminded me why I started book blogging. It gave me the opportunity to introduce good books like this one but are not that popular. I highly recommend this book, I’m sure for those who love this kind of genre, it’s something you shouldn’t miss. Actually, it’s something you should anticipate reading. J

Girl in Love by Caisey Quinn

After Trace left her to go to rehab, Kylie survived on her own singing, making songs and being the top artist she always dreamed of. But she can’t feel any happiness on what’s going on around her. She feels numb. Ever since Trace left, the only way she knew how to cope is to feel numb, build walls around her and never to trust anyone again with her heart. The old Kylie was gone, and took her place is the top artist who only knows how to work, and doesn’t have fun.

Good thing she has found true friendship with Lulu, Lily, and Mia (unexpectedly). Steven and his band. With their help, Kylie made it through almost a year. But she knows the pain is still there, and being numb is the only way not to feel that pain. Until Trace returned, out from rehab. And now, their label wants them to be on tour together. Will Kylie be able to keep herself from feeling once again? Will Trace be able to take her back? This is the 3^rd and Final Instalment of Kylie Ryans Series.

I knew it when I said book 2 will kill me from its ending. Good thing I have this book on hand. I immediately grabbed this book right after I finish book 2. I guess my sleeping for tonight will be out of the question. Anyway, I’m sure this book is worth it.

I felt sad for Kylie. She’s so heartbroken and feels so alone. I guess I would also feel that same if someone like Trace did that to me. I also get her point that it’s not just the “I’m going to rehab you can’t wait for me” line of Trace that made her feel betrayed. It’s something more. It’s that, when the going gets tough, it’s not her that Trace trusts to handle him. It’s not her that he runs to talk about his fears and problems. For someone like Kylie who loved Trace unconditionally, that stings a lot.

I still don’t like Trace. Regardless of how many times this story say how hot he is, I just can’t feel that attraction. Or maybe I’m not just into that mature guys. I prefer Steven actually. If he’s not totally into another woman (which I also grew to like), I would definitely root him for Kylie. Kylie experienced so much during the year without Trace, and I feel like it’s so unfair for Trace to suddenly pop up and ruin everything. I totally believe that Trace doesn’t have the right to treat Kylie like that. Leaving and breaking her heart, then when he’s okay, take her back. Even if he says it’s best for her, I think Kylie deserves better than that. But since these two are the lead, I would have to settle for less and be satisfied with their story.

Trace’s saving grace would be his patience and determination to take Kylie back. His love for her is undeniable, and I find it cute. I love cold Kylie here, she tried her best to keep away from him, unsuccessfully obviously but I admired her for trying. Besides them, I have enjoyed Lulu and Mia’s character. Totally opposite but they have showed their loyalty and friendship to Kylie, and I love them for that. The lyrics for the songs are amazing, I hope I could really hear them in the radio.

It’s a push-and-pull relationship between Trace and Kylie, but it fits the story too well. And in the end, it’s just perfect for these two. The epilogue is great, I love how I had a glimpse of the “after.” 

Girl on Tour by Caisey Quinn

There’s a reason why I didn’t jump right off to this book after reading Girl with Guitar. Don’t misread me, I loved the book, especially its ending. That’s why I took my time before reading this book. I have this big hunch that I won’t enjoy much how this book will end, so I made sure I have the third book first before reading this. So in case there’s a cliff-hanger, a frustrated ending or something else that would make me sleepless, I have the third book to hope for. I can’t afford to be sleepless these days!haha!

Trace and Kylie’s love story is doomed in this book. I feel it! The title itself will give you a hint. Kylie will be on tour, and Trace as well, but they will be on two different tours. Distance would tear them apart, Trace’s drinking problem would cause problems, and Kylie’s own problems as she struggles to be on top of the industry would make it hard for both of them. Will their love survive the music industry, that is full of lies, manipulations and drama? This book will surely take you along inside their world.

Honestly, I didn’t like Trace that much, and this book didn’t help my love for him. I admire Kylie’s character, her innocence, and her cow girl character. But I think Trace’s taking advantage of that. He always say he loves Kylie enough to do everything, but here he is, lying about his drinking and all. There’s not much drama going on between the two other than their relationship is taking the toll of the distance, secrecy and everything going on in each of them. Mostly, it’s all about Kylie’s drama in her tour and Trace’s drama in his own. I guess that’s what made them drift apart. Or maybe they are just meant to be that way.  

I can’t say much about this book. Usually book 2 are always like this, the in-between (obviously), the book that will prepares the reader for the finale on book 3. It’s where all the problems will arise, it’s where 2 lovers will drift apart from each other and will make the reader anticipate book 3 to know if they’ll end up together or not. This book is that, and something more. Book 1 gave us a glimpse of what The Entertainment looks like, how Kylie was able to surpass all and make her dreams come true. To enter the music industry, the ever glamorous Music Industry. But in this book, we could see the claws of this industry, how ugly it is for others, how stressful and devastating it is for some. This book showed the strength and thickness needed to survive it. We already saw what it did to Trace, so now we’ll see how Kylie Lou will survive it.

Fall to You by Lexi Ryan

-----------------------------SPOILER ALERT------------------------

Oooohhh.. so that’s what happened. This book is the second installment for Here and Now series of Lexi Ryan. It’s an alternating story of the before and after the accident of Hannah. For readers, you better read the first book first before jumping right on this book. I myself got confused while reading this even if I did read the first book. Haha!

It’s good to know exactly what happened to Hannah during those missing year of her life and to know what happened after book 1 ended. I need to put a spoiler alert on this review because it’s really hard to make a review/rant about this book without spoiling anything.

Let’s start with all my questions in book 1. So why did she pulled away from her twin sister? Well, this was definitely answered in this book. I guess I understand Hannah in this part. With her insecurities and all, knowing that your all-time crush turned to be fiancé started to date you just because your sister asked him to. And because that certain sister was asked first. Really? And in the end, to find out that that sister liked him too?! And because she’s too selfless and all, she gave way for you? Twisted? At that part, I guess I sort of feel Hannah being self-centered, agreeing with Meredith, or maybe, clueless?

Then there’s Max’s real intention, so in this book, Max was cleared, he’s actually the good guy, the boy-next-door type and Hannah became the cheating girl. I was a bit confused here. I was made to believe Max was the bad guy, the jerk that’s using Hannah for the money and all. But no?! He’s really the good guy and I was about to kill Hannah myself for letting go the good guy? Why on earth does the good guys always lose against the bad guy? Frustrating…

Well to be fair, Nate is not actually a bad guy, but he kind of is here compared to Max. Max is the one willing to wait and marry her and Nate was the one who wont' commit. Or maybe not.

And Hannah? I kind of hated Hannah here. I know she’s confuse, I understand that, I know she’s having a hard time, I know that. With the amnesia and the pregnancy without knowing who the father is, I get her. But it’s not an excuse to be with one man then jumped right off to the other when the going gets tough. Is it all about sex? Because I am having doubt if she’s really in love with either of them. At book 1, she decided she’s choosing Nate even if they’re over. I admired her for that. Then, when Nate dies, she suddenly grabbed Max. Seriously? Is this how she’s coping? This girl is giving me a heart attack. I think I need to come with her mother in the hospital for a check-up. So in the end, when Nate returned (as expected and what a cliff hanger!) I laughed! I think Hannah deserves this, to be confused and all. I pity Max of all. Because when Hannah gets confuse, she’s going to turn to Nate (this is what I expect )  and Max will be left alone once again. So Hannah, I hope you choose wisely and please, please,be careful to these men’s hearts. Especially Max. Oh well, I guess I started to fall for Max. haha

Lost in Me by Lexi Ryan

A captivating story with perfect combination of mystery, love/romance, family, friendship and life lessons.

I really love the writing of this story. It is very light and very easy to read. ( I finished it with one sitting) This is the kind of book that makes you convince yourself that you’ll stop after one chapter to continue the next day but ended up reading all night. I have just finished reading the first chapter and all I’m thinking is how is this going to end. The amnesia part is the unique twist of the story. Hanna just woke up from an accident and realized she forgot the last year of her life, she’s thin and she’s engaged to Max, who she had a crush on since she was young. Suddenly, Hannah woke up and she’s living everything that she dreamed of but then circumstances happen and she met Nate, who happen to be someone who knows her and it seems like they have something Hannah can’t deny. An attraction. But she’s already engaged to Max, so what really happened?

The story focused on Hannah’s struggle to bring back her memory to answer all her questions. Who is Nate in her life? Is she cheating on Max? Is Max cheating on her? Why did he pulled away from her sister during the last year? And how did she ended up falling from the stairs that caused her to lose her amnesia?

I love how the pace of the story. It’s just enough for readers to want more and continue reading but not get frustrated at the same time. Each chapters reveal something that would solve the but mystery but would keep you reading for more. Sounds addicting? Definitely!

I love Hanna’s character. Everyone has their own insecurities, but that didn’t stop her from being successful in life. Though at some time she can’t remember, that did, I still admire her way of handling life. What I didn’t like about her is that she can’t remember anything but is willing to directly jump to the guy who told her he was engaged to. Even if it was Max and many say they are engaged, how could she just want to make out with him instantly? Then to another guy afterwards? Isn’t that a bit awkward?

As for Max, he’s a hottie as I’ve been told. But I guess he’s too good to be true. And Nate, I could have loved him, I am about to but I feel him so detached and not much exposure for him in this book. I’m hoping for a better Nate at the second book as this book almost killed me with the ending.

Netgalley - Altaica by Tracy M. Joyce

Summary from Goodreads

“Look at her – she’s Hill Clan. Even the Matyrani don’t like them …”

Isaura – little is known about her race, but much is whispered. Born to refugees, she grows up enduring racism and superstition within a community that fears her. She has few friends, and those she treasures. Trapped, she longs for escape to a different life. 

Escape is only the beginning of her troubles. Having fled an invading army with her friends, Isaura is faced with heinous choices in order to survive. Secrets from her past emerge to torment her and threaten to destroy all she holds dear. Her struggles forge a bond with an ancient power – a power which may transform or consume her. Old hatreds and superstitions are renewed and at her most vulnerable she learns the true nature of those around her.

Her only hope lies in a foreign land – a land rich in tradition; ruled by three powerful clans. A land with a history marked by warfare; where magic as we know it does not exist. Instead what is here, in abundance, is a more primal power.

Survival carries a high price.

Welcome to Altaica.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21857379-altaica

Review

I need to borrow the summary from Goodreads as I am a bit confused with how to put this story in a plot. There are lots of going on in this book that it I can’t make myself create a good 1-paragraph summary. At first, it’s about Isaura and her friends, their village and their escape. When I thought I’m getting bored with their lives at sea, the story jumped to Umniga and Asha and the kingdom ruled by 3 clans. It gets good and exciting page by page, but I’m not really sure where the story is going.

First, I would like to praise the author for creating such a wonderful world in this book. I could imagine the village myself and the kingdom and got attached to the characters of this book. Isaura and Asha’s character are really strong. They are characters that came alive in this book and I wonder, who really is the lead here? Is it Isaura or Asha?

My problem with this book is that it’s not well-explained. Yes, the description of the places and all are very detailed. But there are terms and things that I can’t actually understand. Please bear in mind that this is a new world and leaders can’t directly jump to the state of mind of the author’s imagination, so I was a little bit frustrated with the terms, the names of people, and other terms that I am not familiar with. Though at some point I finally realized what these were, I’ve already past the moment. I believe a bit of history on Altaica, Isaura’s heritage, the village’s history, the the three clans would help readers understand more.

But even with thise frustrations, I come to love Altaica. I love the characters (except Elena and Ratilal) and have enjoyed myself reading their lives and getting to know the more. I love the part where the 2 stories merged, I was about to think the story is going nowhere when this happened so my frustrations were relieved a bit.

It’s a promising story and I expect much on the second book, especially after how this book ended. I’ll be surely anticipating for the next book. 

Blog Tour - Shannon's Gift by Nate Bennett

I have been intrigued with this book when LiteratiAuthor had sent this email. The cover itself shows a bog story. It's something I feel like would touch me. So I signed up to this blog tour. I hope with my help, this book reached lots of readers and touch their lives as well.

Below is my review for this book...

Have you heard that line when some people say "I don't want to be forgotten" i think Nate immortalized his wife, Shannon through this book. I think it's the best way of remembering your love ones. It doesn't matter if you'll put it on public or save it for yourself. It’s just something to remember her, and at the same time, I believe it helped a lot in Nate’s process of recovering from Shannon’s death.

This book is literally a compilation of the pages in Nate’s blog and some of the comments by guests. It tells the struggle of Nate after losing his wife. But other than that, Nate had successfully told Shannon’s story and introduced her to all the readers. At first, my thought on this book is that it’s like a simple textbook about grieving. It’s a personal diary that should stay as personal. I can’t see enough story for it to be a book and found it kind of boring. It would have been great to leave it as a blog as what it is originally intended. Nate’s post are robotic, and I don’t feel much emotions.

But as I continue reading (though at times I was tempted to stop) I became attach to Nate’s story. It’s kind of addicting. I have this feeling, a sense of duty to finish until the end just to make sure Nate will be doing okay. Somehow, Nate’s everyday journal got through me and touched my hear even without me knowing it. Then I start to understand. Nate’s not robotic, it’s just his way or coping. I guess that’s how we usually are. Feeling numb, devoid of feelings at first, now believing what’s really happening.

I started to enjoy Nate’s new stages of grieving. I guess his part (and others same as Nate’s) is the hardest. To lose someone and not be able to get angry at that person, because it’s not her fault. It’s not anyone’s fault. I agree with the original stages of grieving. It’s easy to get angry at first. Forget all emotions and focus on just one thing. Anger. But in Nate’s case, that can’t be.

I related to Nate at most of this part when I had my fair share of loss (not as much as Nate had). I thought it was me, but I guess it’s the same for most of us. When grieving, it’s easy to understand. It’s easy to be considerate of others. Hurt is a universal language, it’s like you could connect with everyone when you’re hurting. Sometimes, being happy makes you forget.

But other than grief. This is a great “in memory of” book. Page by page, I came to know Shannon. At first, I’m thinking, this book is meant just for the family and for those who know Shannon, but this book introduced Shannon in a way that everyone that read this book will know her, will love her and will agree that Shannon was cheated in life. That she deserves a better and longer life. I hope I could visit Shannon’s tree someday as well J

I salute the author, Nate Bennet for creating such a wonderful book despite of his grief . He turned his grief to something that would forever make Shannon be remembered and for readers to be aware of the mithochondrial disease. I’m wishing him the best in life as his life continue with his new partner and Shannon in his heart.

Netgalley -- Threats of Sky and Sea by Jennifer Ellision

A new fantasy series that I’ll add on my favorite list. Book 2 will definitely in my TBR!

This is a story about Breena, living a peaceful life with her father (as most stories go) in a bar until visitors come to take her father away, claiming something about her father she never knew and could change her life forever.

They brought to the king as prisoners, and promised to be freed if Breena could make her father tell what the kind needs to know. Here she meet Caden, the rebellious prince, Aleta, his bride-to-be and Tregle, a fire elemental.   

Soon, Breena will realize that she’s the secret his father is keeping. She’s what the king needs as a weapon.

I love Duke Secan's character. Once I found out who he is, I noticed how royal he acts. Though frustrating most of the times, I learned to love his character. I'm seeing Ed Stark of Game of Thrones in his character.

The book has also portrayed very effective villain through the King and Lady Kat. I can't remember a character that I long to suffer as much as the king and lady Kat. I guess that proves how good the writing of the story is.

As for Caden and Breena (I love the names by the way) I think they still need character development. While all the supporting characters have this foundation on their characters which made it strong. I find they're characters lacking something I can't pinpoint. Especially Caden's.

There are also inconsistencies like Tregle's character. At first he can't control his power and he's just new but he's already reporting to the king regarding the troops?

I find the story quite slow. I'm halfway through and I still don't know where the story is going. GOOD Thing I'm enjoying Breena's life in the castle. But all in all, it's a promising story. It’s lke the story of “The Last Airbende” but with a twist to make it a story for girl teens. I'm definitely recommending this to readers who love this kind of genre.  I'm also looking forward to the next book. I am quite excited about it :)

Netgalley - Appaloosa Summer by Tudor Robins

If you are looking for a relaxing story, a book you could read in the beach or just in bed waiting for sleep to come in, this is the book.

Meg’s horse Major died during a show and left Meg devastated. She decided to take the summer job in a B&B owned by their family friends in an island to take off her mind to major and her giref. Here, he met Jared, who is living in grief as well. Soon, they found themselves owning an Appaloosa horse to be trained and help them forget their grief in a way.

The first thing that caught my attention in this book is the cover. It has a really nice cover with a country feel in it. I loooovvveee the boots! But other than that, I feel like the cover has shown what the book/story is offering to the reader.

There’s a bit of “The Horse Whisperer” in this story. A girl devastated by the loss of her horse, went to an island to recover and started recovering through the help of a horse still. Frankly, the story is too much technical for a non-horse rider. There are some words that I’m not familiar with and I think this could be enjoyed more by a reader who has experience in horse-riding. But the good thing is that, the terms can be easily understood as the story goes on and I find myself getting more and more familiar with the words.

Though the characters have both emotional baggage on their shoulders, that didn’t keep the story from being light. The grief both are having did not took too much of the story. It’s more focus on how both Jared and Meg are recovering from what they’ve been through. And the supporting characters are really alive that you I myself, could feel the country atmosphere of the story. It’s like the whole island is a one big family. Even Meg’s father, who played a small role feels so alive. I just remembered him from this one line and I think that’s enough to know what character he has. Meg and Slate text conversations also added to the lightness of the story.

I love country stories, and animals as well. It’s easier for me to be emotionally attached to stories related to animals as pets. Especially dogs. And Horses? I always dream of having a pet horse. :D So this story became close to my heart instantly.

 

A Song for Julia by Charles Sheehan-Miles

A book full of emotions. If they’re going to ask me to give a one-liner for this. That would be it. This book made me feel happy, confused, agitated, excited, teary-eyed, heartbroken and calm.

Julia is a straight-A Harvard student who was managing an anti-war protest when she met Crank. Crank, a singer in a band called Morbid Obesity immediately was taken back by Julia’s mysterious and goody-too-shoes type. Though exactly not his type, there’s something about her that got him asking her for a lunch. To his shock, Julia agreed and from there started an attraction between the two that either of them couldn’t comprehend.

Julia has this emotional baggage that I believe is too much for her age. She went through so many things alone, I fully understand why she chose to leave alone and her fear of trusting anyone again. But I admire her strength of being where she is, her decisions in life ( though she had her down times) and her simple way of rebelling to her parents. It’s not just to have something to rebel against as Cranks had said, but it’s a rebellion because it’s what she wants and where she could be happy.

Crank is a rock star. Can I elaborate more? Definitely a hottie, currently included in my top book boyfriend! ***sigh Anyways, he’s just all look. With tattoos and all but really a softie inside. He was a playboy, are rock star licensed to be that??? But that immediately changed when he met Julia. He went through hardships as well, but nothing compared to what Julia had experienced. But he made good of it and became mature from his experience.

 These two have a hot and called relationship. At first they were all like “I don’t do relationships” then Crank had this realization that he wants something more. And Julia was always panicking and running once Crank hints something about their relationship and future. But I admire Julia for trying her best to overcome her fear. And I was head over heels to Crank for his patience and determination towards Julia.

The story is perfectly written through dual POV of Crank and Julia. From these, readers could immediately capture the emotions of both characters and fully understand why they did what they did, said and decided. The other characters also gave color to the story. Every characters, even if they have small roles in the story have something to contribute in how the story ran through. I totally love Sean, not because of how he is, but because how normal he could be. Crank’s father jack was hilarious as well and such a fatherly figure. I suddenly missed my dad after reading this.

But what I love most in this story is that it’s not a simple story of a boy meets girl, they fall in love and the end. There are other stories that runs around their story that gives the story more depth and sense. A combination of love, family, healing, forgiveness and life. A full package to a very endearing story that will make the story sigh and satisfied in the end.

NetGalley --- Frozen by Melissa De La Cruz and Michael Johnston

A dystopian story where everything is frozen. It’s an original one (based on what I have read about dystopian stories) and there are humans, magical creatures, military, marked ones, all living in Vegas where there are casinos playing poker. Okay, that part is a bit scattered. It could have been a great plot if not for the weak background. It wasn’t explained how the earth ended up frozen, and yet there’s the sea where they were able to travel. It wasn’t explained why the government ended up being overly-strict to its citizens and how people with “marks” came out to be and persecuted. It’s like the authors assumed that the readers would already know these things. And the characters, I find them detached. The characters have potential but… (there’s always the but.. I’m sorry) but as a reader, I couldn’t reach them at all. There’s no emotions. It’s like watching a movie performed by very bad actors, by uttering their lines in a monosyllabic way.

 

To make it fair, I like the idea of the story, it’s something you could realize, some of it could might happen (I hope not) in a very far future if humans won’t be responsible enough on the future and on mother earth. Garbage everywhere, poisoned water, people too dependent on gadgets that they forgot the importance of education. I found myself laughing hard with the “textlish” that was introduced here. It’s like what we call “jejemon” in our country. It’s a way of texting which is kind of funny. And for it to be spoken… really? So hilarious.. haha!

At first there’s this big deal about the “marked” ones and Nat being the center of it all, so how come I never get to see anything elaborating the extent of her power, and then at the end. I just feel like this story is full of inconsistencies. Soon, I found myself comparing this to the “series of unfortunate events” with all the things they encounter and escaped smoothly. And with all that, I didn’t feel panic, thrill or excitement. As I’ve said, the story kind of detached.

But still, I will give this 2 stars for its potential, I hope the authors will still have the time to do something to repair some of the inconsistencies and work with content more to make it stronger and detailed.

For Darkness Shows the Stars by Diana Peterfreund

From this book comes a very unique dystopian. It would be confusing at first with all the unfamiliar terms. To be honest, I didn't like the story much until I have grasped what is the setting of this story.

A dystopian story where humans are classified into two, due to a history you could find out yourself. At first, there are the Reduced and the Luddites. Reduced are the punished ones (for wanting to be more powerful than God). They suddenly can't talk ( could only utter syllables thus they have names with only one syllable) and they are believed not to be smart enough to do smart stuffs anymore. The Luddites are the unpunished ones and remained normal and became the caretaker of the world and the reduced. In time, Luddites feared the changes,especially when the CORs came. the children of the reduced, who were born normal, just like the Luddites. They prefer being called Post short for Post reductionist. Post wanted to be treated normal, but Luddites, having used in the superiority from reduced won't agree. 

From here, came our story. A Luddite and a post being friends and falling in love. But how can a Luddite, afraid of change and a post, who all his life wanted change... be together?

A very nice and unique novel that won't let you stop reading even if you wanted to. This book made me forget my work, my laundry and even my food. It's nice to finally find a book that would make me feel like this again. It's been a long time and I'm glad I happen to come upon this book. 

I love Elliott's character. She's one of the few female lead who doesn't need saving, who can stand up on her own and has her own decisions not blinded by love or anything else. She strongly believe on what she was taught while growing up but still know what's right from wrong. She's very responsible but still knows hoe to break the rule, if it means saving lives. Elliott is very outspoken, and a what-you-see-what-you-get type of girl.

On the other hand, Kai is the mysterious one. I still could not understand the depth of his anger o Elliott. Is it because she did not ran away with him, or there's something else, something that Elliott have said. It made me wonder, with the scene where he said "Luddites (pertaining to Elliott) cannot be trusted. Still he returned to Elliott's place, was it for revenge or for the sake of love? I would like to believe the latter. :D

It has been a very complicated journey for both Kai and Elliott. They have their own beliefs that they are trying to surpass to be together. But belief is the most difficult thing to beat. The belief you grew up to, the fear of change and the fear of history repeating itself. I salute Elliott on her decisions. She became very responsible and very selfless. Even if all throughout, Kai hated her for her decision, Elliott did not waver, believing that what she's doing is right. She never wasted her time crying and used the pain she's feeling in working and proving that her decision is right. 

____SPOILER ALERT______

So what's the difference of the changes done that caused punishment to the new changes done by Kai's fleet? How come Gavin and Carlotta were punished but Kai's team weren't when they were doing the same thing? It's something that should have cleared. In my part, as long as it's meant to save a life, there's nothing bad to it. If it's for the goodness of people or if it's intention is not malicious or are not meant to harm others, why not? The "superhuman" abilities gained by Kai, I did not agree much, it's the same thing Carlotta and Gavin did, but they were punished. So I didn't got the idea of that... or maybe, Gavin and Carlotta's are just experiments gone wrong and they were not really punished by God at all. It's just the Luddite way of being superior. Well, I'm not suggesting anything, just my opinion and on how I saw this story.

All in all, it is really a very good read. It's something I could read over and over again. 

Maybe Someday by Colleen Hoover

 Summary from Goodreads

At twenty-two years old, aspiring musician Sydney Blake has a great life: She’s in college, working a steady job, in love with her wonderful boyfriend, Hunter, and rooming with her good friend, Tori. But everything changes when she discovers Hunter cheating on her with Tori—and she is left trying to decide what to do next.

—and she is left trying to decide what to do next.

Sydney becomes captivated by her mysterious neighbor, Ridge Lawson. She can’t take her eyes off him or stop listening to the daily guitar playing he does out on his balcony. She can feel the harmony and vibrations in his music. And there’s something about Sydney that Ridge can’t ignore, either: He seems to have finally found his muse. When their inevitable encounter happens, they soon find themselves needing each other in more ways than one…

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Colleen Hoover, a passionate tale of friendship, betrayal, and romance—and the enchanting music that inspires one young woman to put her life back together.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17788403-maybe-someday?from_search=true

My Review

A very unique love story that got me confuse on what is right and what is wrong when it comes to love. Lots of surprises that made me stopped reading to reread the last few lines to confirm if I read it right. It's not a typical love story of a girl and a boy. 

Colleen Hoover has once again captured my heart with this one of a kind love story. It has his lightness and heaviness at the same time. It made me smile and teary-eye at the same time. It made me root for Sydney and Ridge but part me feels not right. Talk about confusing huh? Their love story is so complicated that it made me wonder? Is it okay to cheat when your heart says so? But as the story goes... it made me realize what these two made right that others didn't. They are honest with their feelings, but they chose to do what is right and wait for the right time. Thus, Maybe Someday.

One thing I also love about this story is the character of Ridge. You'll believe he's normal, he acts normal and never did he consider his hearing a disability. He worked around it and excelled. No matter how life made it hard for him to survive with his disability, nothing stopped him from doing what he love and protecting his loved ones. 

I also love the songs that they are composing, but I just wish I could here how it sounds as well.

Broken and Screwed 2 by Tijan

Summary from Goodreads

New school. New friendships. New life. 

Not so much. 

Alexandra is pissed about her parents abandoning her. She's beyond pissed that her friends did the same. She's enraged because things are unclear about her brother's death now. So her first stop is at Jesse's house to demand answers. She wants to know why her brother was friends with the criminal crowd before he died and she knows he holds the answers. But when she sees him, she doesn't get the answers she expected. Instead, she finds out that their chemistry never faded and soon heats up again! 

Some habits die hard. Soon Jesse and Alex are back to their ways of sneaking around. He's a near-celebrity at school and she doesn't want to deal with the backlash of being his girlfriend. Alex is tired of being hurt so she's learned the lesson not to confide and lean on others. However, she can't seem to help herself when it comes to Jesse Hunt. The big question isn't if she will survive if their relationship goes public, it's if she will survive when the real truths about her family and brother come out? Or when she learns that Jesse knows more than what he's told her?

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/987542867?book_show_action=false

My Review

This book is kind of frustrating. Too much secrets even after all what went through on the previous book. There are lots going on in the story and the only thing that's holding them back is the secrets of both Jesse and Alex. 

I'm frustrated with Alex because she knows there's something wrong with her. I believe she needs some therapy after all she's been through and her current state. I am agreeing with her that she's a nutcase. She could admit to herself how broken she is but still, she never asked for help. She has this fear that everyone will leave her, which is what happened before so I understand a bit. But if only she could open up... I think that would help a lot. But when bits of revelations are made in the middle, I kind of understood her better and lessen my frustration to her.

I'm frustrated with Jesse. I don't know if I love him for being very loyal to Ethan, but to the point that she could sacrifice his relationship with Alex for this loyalty, I am confuse. 

I'm frustrated with the story, because there's lot of going on and I'm almost at the end and I can't see the revelations yet and the story even had the time to introduce new characters which I ma guessing will be the focus of the third boos *sigh... 

And the most frustrating part is even though I am so emotionally pissed with what's going on, I can't stop reading , because I am hoping for a very good ending. The couple deserve that so I didn't stop. At least at that part, I wasn't disappointed. :)

Broken and Screwed 1 by Tijan

 Summary from Goodreads

Alexandra's older brother died the night he graduated. That day changed everything for her. No longer was she the party girl. No longer did she care about being popular and no longer was her family the happy unit she always thought existed. The only person who could help her heal is the same person who loved her brother as much as she did, his best friend. She only hopes to keep her entire heart from breaking when Jesse will move on, and she knows he will. 

After Ethan died, Jesse excelled at basketball, partying, and girls. He used it all to turn his emotions off, but the irony was that Alex was the only person who could do that for him. She helped him forget, but she was the one person he shouldn't be with because the secrets he knows could shatter everything. They could shatter her.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17344385-broken-and-screwed

My Review

Here's one messy character. Broken and Screwed fit perfectly for Alexandra... and to Jesse Hunt as well.. I guess. 

I kind of get the whole point of the story. It's a simple plot with lots of complications. Too much complications that I am wondering if these all makes sense. I could feel the grief, sadness and even the desire of the characters. It's not a happy story actually. But I've expected that with the death of Alex;s brother being in the center if this all. 

But I just feel that this book is so one sided and incomplete. It started and ended with Alex being in the same state - broken and screwed. There were no revelations and what's really happening behind the story. No explanations of Jesse's feeling ad characters, Marissa's and Alex. It's quite confusing but it has the pull as other mysterious books has. 

It has a good plot but I feel like the book could e better if it ended with some bits of enlightenment on what is really happening. Hoping the next book would give much details.

Racing Savannah by Miranda Kenneally

Summary from Goodreads

They’re from two different worlds.

He lives in the estate house, and she spends most of her time in the stables helping her father train horses. In fact, Savannah has always been much more comfortable around horses than boys. Especially boys like Jack Goodwin—cocky, popular and completely out of her league. She knows the rules: no mixing between the staff and the Goodwin family. But Jack has no such boundaries.

With her dream of becoming a horse jockey, Savannah isn’t exactly one to follow the rules either. She’s not going to let someone tell her a girl isn’t tough enough to race. Sure, it’s dangerous. Then again, so is dating Jack…

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16045296-racing-savannah

My Review

I'll rate this second best after Catching Jordan. It is a simple and easy-to-read story about teen struggles, life, dreams and of course love. There's not much complications here, just a cliche story of a poor girl meets rich boy. The good difference is that poor girl is not the type of girl that feels like she needs to be saved by the rich boy. She has her strength and she can stand up on her own.

I must admit, I enjoyed reading the other characters from this series as well, especially Jordan and Sam Henry which are my favorite character of all. But I enjoyed Savannah's story as well that I didn't realize I have already finished the story.