Review: A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

Release date: July 15, 2014

Publisher: Atria Books

Pages: 337

Reading level: Adult 

Genre: Contemporary 

Source: Purchased 

Links: Author • Goodreads • Amazon 

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars 

A grumpy yet loveable man finds his solitary world turned on its head when a boisterous young family moves in next door.
Meet Ove. He's a curmudgeon, the kind of man who points at people he dislikes as if they were burglars caught outside his bedroom window. He has staunch principles, strict routines, and a short fuse. People call him the bitter neighbor from hell, but must Ove be bitter just because he doesn't walk around with a smile plastered to his face all the time?
Behind the cranky exterior there is a story and a sadness. So when one November morning a chatty young couple with two chatty young daughters move in next door and accidentally flatten Ove's mailbox, it is the lead-in to a comical and heartwarming tale of unkempt cats, unexpected friendship, and the ancient art of backing up a U-Haul. All of which will change one cranky old man and a local residents' association to their very foundations.

Review: 

A MAN CALLED OVE has been on my radar for quite awhile. It's always being displayed prominently at bookstores and on many suggested reading lists I've come across. I found it at a used bookstore and brought it along for a long plane ride. A MAN CALLED OVE was heartwarming and just an overall delightfully enjoyable book.

Ove (I keep pronouncing this as "ohv" in my head, I realize it is actually "Ovey" or something similar?) is a grumpy older man who lives in Sweden and has followed the same routine for years. He likes to follow the same schedule everyday, drive the same cars, and keep the neighborhood running the same way it always has. Everything changes when a young couple and their children move in next door and impact Ove in ways he never thought possible. I loved reading about Ove. He was such an untraditional character and everything about A MAN CALLED OVE was just very real. The characters seemed like people any one of us could know and Ove, especially, was incredibly layered. For all his grouchiness, Ove is easy to get attached to and I loved reading about his interactions with the neighbors and the cat.

Fredrik Backman created a wonderful cast of characters in A MAN CALLED OVE. I enjoyed getting to know them all and seeing how their lives had intertwined with Ove's over the years. At times sad, this book will leave you feeling ready to share a smile with a lonely stranger or speak to a grumpy neighbor. There is always so much more to a person than the persona they give off, and I loved that Parvana (Ove's new neighbor) was not afraid of Ove and knew just what he needed.

I am eager to check out more of Backman's books and highly recommend A MAN CALLED OVE if you have not already read it. 

Review: America's First Daughter by Stephanie Dray & Laura Kamoie

America's First Daughter by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie
Release date: March 1, 2016
Publisher: William Morrow
Pages: 606
Reading level: Adult
Genre: Historical fiction
Source: Purchased
Links: Authors • Goodreads • Amazon

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars 

From her earliest days, Patsy Jefferson knows that though her father loves his family dearly, his devotion to his country runs deeper still. As Thomas Jefferson’s oldest daughter, she becomes his helpmate, protector, and constant companion in the wake of her mother’s death, traveling with him when he becomes American minister to France.
It is in Paris, at the glittering court and among the first tumultuous days of revolution, that fifteen-year-old Patsy learns about her father’s troubling liaison with Sally Hemings, a slave girl her own age. Meanwhile, Patsy has fallen in love—with her father’s protégé William Short, a staunch abolitionist and ambitious diplomat. Torn between love, principles, and the bonds of family, Patsy questions whether she can choose a life as William’s wife and still be a devoted daughter.
Her choice will follow her in the years to come, to Virginia farmland, Monticello, and even the White House. And as scandal, tragedy, and poverty threaten her family, Patsy must decide how much she will sacrifice to protect her father's reputation, in the process defining not just his political legacy, but that of the nation he founded.

Review: 

I loved this! Historical fiction has always been one of my favorite genres particularly when it's about someone/something I don't know too much about. What most impressed me was how much detail went into AMERICA'S FIRST DAUGHTER. This book followed Thomas Jefferson's daughter, Patsy, for her entire life. Of course even in 600 pages that isn't enough to cover every important moment, but I still felt I learned a lot about both Patsy and her father. Thomas Jefferson has always been a fascinating figure to me and I liked getting to see this more intimate side of him. Patsy and her father had an incredible relationship and she was present for some of the most important moments in history.

Patsy was born in Virginia and eventually followed her father from Monticello to Paris to the White House. After her mother died, Patsy became the one her father confided in and relied on. It truly makes you wonder what exactly her impact was on our nation's history. The author's utilized letters and journals to provide as much accuracy as they could to this story of Patsy Jefferson. They were fairly liberal with their creation of her relationship with William Short and relied quite heavily on the fact that Thomas Jefferson may have had a serious relationship with Sally Hemmings. Still, these are rumors that many feel have substance and it was interesting to see how these situations affected Patsy and shaped her life. I can only imagine how difficult it must have been for Patsy to maintain her strength and composure when her father was such a public figure. She did her best to protect him and seemed to be one of his only confidants.

Thomas Jefferson is one of our most well-known presidents and shapers of our nation. While we do get to see a more personal side of this legendary man, what I most liked about this book was learning about Patsy's life and how her father's actions shaped her own life. What a life it was. Patsy had some incredible adventures and experiences early in life, but unfortunately married a man who struggled with drinking and bad temper. It was awful to see how much Patsy and her father struggled at the end.

AMERICA'S FIRST DAUGHTER is a lengthy read and packed full of information. The authors do discuss what liberties they took at the end and I also did some of my own research on Patsy and her family after I finished reading. There are so many "hidden figures" in our nation's history and I am excited to read Dray and Kamoie's next book on Alexander Hamilton's wife, Eliza. In the early days of the United States women are often left in the background, yet they often made such a significant impact. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in historical fiction.

Review: The Room on Rue Amelie by Kristin Harmel

The Room on Rue Amelie by Kristin Harmel
Release date: March 27, 2018
Publisher: Gallery Books
Pages: 400
Reading level: Adult
Genre: Historical Fiction
Source: Goodreads Giveaway
Links: Author • Goodreads • Amazon 

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars

When newlywed Ruby Henderson Benoit arrives in Paris in 1939 with her French husband Marcel, she imagines strolling arm in arm along the grand boulevards, awash in the golden afternoon light. But war is looming on the horizon, and as France falls to the Nazis, her marriage begins to splinter, too.
Charlotte Dacher is eleven when the Germans roll into the French capital, their sinister swastika flags snapping in the breeze. After the Jewish restrictions take effect and Jews are ordered to wear the yellow star, Charlotte can’t imagine things getting much worse. But then the mass deportations begin, and her life is ripped forever apart.
Thomas Clarke joins the British Royal Air Force to protect his country, but when his beloved mother dies in a German bombing during the waning days of the Blitz, he wonders if he’s really making a difference. Then he finds himself in Paris, in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower, and he discovers a new reason to keep fighting—and an unexpected road home.
When fate brings them together, Ruby, Charlotte, and Thomas must summon the courage to defy the Nazis—and to open their own broken hearts—as they fight to survive. Rich with historical drama and emotional depth, this is an unforgettable story that will stay with you long after the final page is turned.

Review:

THE ROOM ON RUE AMELIE was a beautiful story of three inspiring individuals during World War II in Paris. I had recently read Kristin Hannah's THE NIGHTINGALE and had seen some critiques that they were extremely similar (in plot, not to mention author's name!). I will admit there were several similarities to aspects of the story, but these were only in the historical sense, not in the characters or writing style. I have always been interested in historical fiction that brings to life a place and period that I am not all that familiar with. While I have read a multitude of books on World War II, I have not come across many stories of Paris and the experiences of people there. 

I don't want to get into the intricacies of the plot of THE ROOM ON RUE AMELIE, because I think it is worthwhile to go into this book not knowing much about the characters. I will say that this novel focused on three people: Charlotte, Ruby, and Thomas. Charlotte and Ruby are living in Paris at the start of the war and Thomas is training as a fighter pilot. Their stories were told in alternating chapters, which is something I am not always a fan of, but each of these characters was extremely developed and I didn't have any trouble fully immersing myself in each individual's narrative. Their experiences are fairly interconnected and we are able to see the characters from various perspectives. 

It is always difficult to read a book with characters going through particularly tough and tragic situations, and Harmel did an excellent job of bringing the reader into the setting right alongside the characters. She has a unique and vivid method of writing and I was able to finish this book in just one day. Some might go into this story expecting it to be only focused on history and the struggles of the characters, but romance was also a key aspect of THE ROOM ON RUE AMELIE. I think the beautiful relationships formed in this novel made it even more enjoyable for me. Not only romantic relationships, but friendships as well were beautifully crafted. 

I highly recommend THE ROOM ON RUE AMELIE for anyone interested in historical fiction and I am eager to read what Kristin Harmel writes next. 

Review: Illusive by Emily Lloyd-Jones

Illusive by Emily Lloyd-Jones
Release date: July 15, 2014
Publisher: Little, Brown BFYR
Pages: 416
Reading level: Young Adult
Genre: Fantasy
Source: Netgalley
Links: Author's Website/Goodreads 

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars

The X-Men meets Ocean's Eleven in this edge-of-your-seat sci-fi adventure about a band of "super" criminals.
When the MK virus swept across the planet, a vaccine was created to stop the epidemic, but it came with some unexpected side effects. A small percentage of the population developed superhero-like powers. Seventeen-year-old Ciere Giba has the handy ability to change her appearance at will. She's what's known as an illusionist...She's also a thief.
After a robbery goes awry, Ciere must team up with a group of fellow super-powered criminals on another job that most would consider too reckless. The formula for the vaccine that gave them their abilities was supposedly destroyed years ago. But what if it wasn't?
The lines between good and bad, us and them, and freedom and entrapment are blurred as Ciere and the rest of her crew become embroiled in a deadly race against the government that could cost them their lives.

Review:

Wow, I am so glad I decided to request Illusive on Netgalley! The catchphrase "X-men meets Ocean's Eleven" immediately caught my attention and I have to say the book definitely surprised me in more ways than one. I thoroughly enjoyed this debut from Emily Lloyd-Jones and will be recommending it to everyone this summer!

The plot was unlike anything I have read before. A virus has attacked the planet and the vaccine brings out some surprising side-effects. Suddenly, certain members of the population are discovering they have new super-powers. This was such a creative idea and I loved the world Lloyd-Jones created. Those individuals who got side-effects from the vaccine are feared by the rest of the population and end up involved in a variety of professions. For our main character, Ciere, it's theft.

Illusive was told through alternating points of view and in third-person point of view. At first, I wasn't sure how I would like that, but I ended up liking this method of story-telling a lot. Ciere was an awesome protagonist and I loved how independent and brave she was. Ciere had already been through a lot when she found other people experiencing similar side-effects as she had. It was fascinating to read about the different powers people had and how they used them- for good or for evil?

The characters were easy to like and they made the book for me. Daniel, Kit, and everyone else had something unique about them and it seemed as though no one was what they seemed. Although Illusive was over 400 pages I was engrossed from the start!

I haven't heard anything about this being a series, but the ending definitely left me wanting more! I am eager to see what happens next in what will hopefully be an equally action-packed and character driven sequel. I would highly recommend picking this up when it releases in July!

Review: This Song Will Save Your Life by Leila Sales

This Song Will Save Your Life by Leila Sales
Release date: September 17, 2013
Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR)
Pages: 279
Reading level: Young adult
Genre: Contemporary
Source: Trade
Links: Author's Website/Goodreads

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Making friends has never been Elise Dembowski’s strong suit. All throughout her life, she’s been the butt of every joke and the outsider in every conversation. When a final attempt at popularity fails, Elise nearly gives up. Then she stumbles upon a warehouse party where she meets Vicky, a girl in a band who accepts her; Char, a cute, yet mysterious disc jockey; Pippa, a carefree spirit from England; and most importantly, a love for DJing.

Review:

Leila Sales has been one of my favorite authors ever since I fell in love with her debut, Mostly Good Girls, a few years back. If you're looking for well-written contemporary novels with strong, female characters then her books are definitely for you. This Song Will Save Your Life was unique in so many ways and I will be recommending it to everyone I know!

The characters were what made this book for me.  Elise Dembowsi is a character I think every teenager can relate to in some way. She was bullied and tormented by her peers and she has no idea what it takes to be "popular". Elise doesn't know what to do to make people like her and she is close to giving up. It was sad to see how desperate Elise was for a friend and how not one person would be that for her. Luckily, she found a secret warehouse party and finds a place where she actually belongs.

Elise makes her first real friends at Start, the underground dance party, and they show her a side of herself she never knew existed. I liked how independent the two girls Elise befriends at Start are. Pippa and Vicky show Elise how important it is to be free and not worry about what other people think. The disc jockey is the one who truly turns Elise's life around when he helps her uncover her love for DJing.

I have always been a fan of old music and I loved hearing about Elise's knowledge of bands and artists that most teenagers wouldn't ever be able to recognize or appreciate.  On the other hand, DJing is something I knew nothing about. It was fascinating to read about how challenging DJing is and about what each DJ brings to the table. Elise is a fast learner and I loved seeing how passionate and dedicated she was to DJing.

This was a fast-paced and engaging read and it has easily earned a place on my favorites list. This Song Will Save Your Life has a ton to offer and it stands out from some of the more light and fluffy contemporary reads I've encountered lately. Elise experiences real issues and faces realistic situations when it comes to boys, school, and family. I am eager to see what's next for Leila and I definitely recommend everyone go out and read this book if you haven't already!

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Review: Infinite Sky (Infinite Sky, #1) by C.J. Flood

Infinite Sky by C.J. Flood

Release date: May 20, 2014

Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers

Pages: 256

Reading level: Young Adult 

Genre: Contemporary

Series: Book 1 

Source: Publisher (ARC)

Links: Author's Website/Goodreads

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars

A truly beautiful book about the summer that changed one girl's life, as her mum leaves home, travellers set up camp in the family's field, her older brother goes off the rails, and she falls in love for the very first time. Opening with a funeral, Iris is mourning the boy in the casket - but who is it? Sam, her tearaway brother, or Trick, her tentative boyfriend? Over one long hot summer, we find out just how their three lives were turned upside-down.

Review:

Infinite Sky was a beautifully-written debut that definitely tugged at the heartstrings. At first it took me a few chapters to get into it. The writing style is very different from what I'm used to, and it seemed that this might be aimed at a more middle-grade audience. Luckily, the more I read, the more I got engrossed in this novel and I will definitely be recommending it.

Iris was such a unique character. Even though she is so young, Iris has already dealt with much more than anyone her age should have to experience. Her mother left and now Iris, her father, and her older brother are alone in their country home. Everything changes even more when a family of travelers sets up camp on their property. Iris gets to know a group of people completely different from herself and she develops a special relationship with the boy- Trick.

The family dynamic was such a key element of Infinite Sky and I loved that about this novel. While we did get to know some of Iris's friends and family friends, the novel mainly focused on Iris's family. Her father was struggling to raise two teenagers on his own and her brother had gotten in with the bad crowd. We were able to witness Iris's frustration with her family and how much she needed her mother. Iris has also grown frustrated with her childhood best friend, Matty, who has become judgmental and catty.

Iris is the only person that is curious about the travelers and doesn't see them as a threat or trouble. I liked watching her friendship with Trick grow and develop. Trick shows Iris a different lifestyle and encourages her to live more freely. I have read books in the past about gypsy communities, but I liked the way that Infinite Sky featured them from an outsider's perspective.

I wasn't completely expecting the emotional impact Infinite Sky would have on me. Although the book opens with a mysterious funeral, we don't learn anything more about it until the final few chapters. I was tearing up reading about Iris's pain and all she had to face. Flood definitely knows how to pack an emotional punch and she was truly able to show just how much one summer can change everything.

This was a gorgeous story about growing up, family, and first love and I will definitely be recommending it. CJ Flood has proved herself as a writer with her debut novel, and even though I was a bit uncertain about it at first, I quickly was captivated by Iris and her story. Apparently this was the first in a series, so I will be interested in seeing what happens next.

Review: Vixen by Jillian Larkin

Vixen by Jillian Larkin

Jazz . . . Booze . . . Boys . . . It’s a dangerous combination.
Every girl wants what she can’t have. Seventeen-year-old Gloria Carmody wants the flapper lifestyle—and the bobbed hair, cigarettes, and music-filled nights that go with it. Now that she’s engaged to Sebastian Grey, scion of one of Chicago’s most powerful families, Gloria’s party days are over before they’ve even begun . . . or are they?
Clara Knowles, Gloria’s goody-two-shoes cousin, has arrived to make sure the high-society wedding comes off without a hitch—but Clara isn’t as lily-white as she appears. Seems she has some dirty little secrets of her own that she’ll do anything to keep hidden. . . .

Lorraine Dyer, Gloria’s social-climbing best friend, is tired of living in Gloria’s shadow. When Lorraine’s envy spills over into desperate spite, no one is safe. And someone’s going to be very sorry. . . .

From debut author Jillian Larkin, VIXEN is the first novel in the sexy, dangerous, and ridiculously romantic new series set in the Roaring Twenties . . . when anything goes.

Review: 

I loved, loved, loved this book! In my attempts to tackle my TBR shelves from a few years ago I have been picking up some of the older titles I own and this was one of them. I have no idea why I took so long to read it because everything about Vixen seems like the perfect book for me. I am extremely happy I finally read Vixen as it was a heart-pounding, romantic, and dramatic read that left me eager to get a copy of the sequel. 

Vixen was told from the point of view of three different girls: Gloria, Clara, and Lorraine. Each of them had very different personalities and experiences. Gloria was the rich-girl engaged to one of the most eligible bachelors in Chicago: Sebastian Grey. The only problem is Gloria longs for the freedom and adventure of the flapper lifestyle. Then there is Clara. Clara is Gloria's cousin who everyone thinks is a lowly farm girl with no fashion sense or lust for adventure, but Clara has much more to her than meets the eye. Finally, the third point of view comes from Lorraine. Lorraine wants everything that Gloria has and will do most anything to prove that she is better than Gloria. All three of these girls were fascinating characters to read about and I never found myself wishing it was only told from one of their perspectives. I loved seeing how all of their stories tied together.

The setting was one of the best parts of Vixen: the 1920s in Chicago. The combination of speakeasies, gangsters, romance, and deception made for an impossible-to-put-down read. There was a lot of action and plot twists that kept the story moving and the last few chapters were especially intense. There were a variety of secondary characters introduced and no one was ever as they seemed.

This is definitely a series I wish got more attention because not only is it action-packed with an awesome setting and characters, but it is also extremely well-written. I enjoyed seeing how Larkin incorporated the popular phrases and slang from the time and the description of the fashion was a ton of fun. Vixen was a powerful first book and I am eager to see where Larkin takes things in book two. I highly recommend this series even if you are not usually a fan of historical fiction because there is so much more to Vixen than that. I've already put Ingenue on hold at my library and cannot wait for it to arrive so I can dive back into Gloria, Lorraine, and Clara's worlds.

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars

December 14, 2010/Delacorte Books for Young Readers/421 Pages/Young Adult/Book One

Source: Publisher (ARC)

Other books in this series: Ingenue (Book Two) and Diva (Book Three)

Links: Author's Website/Goodreads  

Review: Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys

Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys 

It’s 1950, and as the French Quarter of New Orleans simmers with secrets, seventeen-year-old Josie Moraine is silently stirring a pot of her own. Known among locals as the daughter of a brothel prostitute, Josie wants more out of life than the Big Easy has to offer. She devises a plan get out, but a mysterious death in the Quarter leaves Josie tangled in an investigation that will challenge her allegiance to her mother, her conscience, and Willie Woodley, the brusque madam on Conti Street.
Josie is caught between the dream of an elite college and a clandestine underworld. New Orleans lures her in her quest for truth, dangling temptation at every turn, and escalating to the ultimate test.
With characters as captivating as those in her internationally bestselling novel Between Shades of Gray, Ruta Sepetys skillfully creates a rich story of secrets, lies, and the haunting reminder that decisions can shape our destiny.

Review:

I have heard nothing but brilliant things about Ruta's debut novel, Between Shades of Gray, and so I went into Out of the Easy with high expectations. Luckily, it completely blew me away and made me all the more anxious to read Ruta's first novel. 

Out of the Easy was a fast paced and romantic novel set in New Orleans in the 1950s. I am a huge historical fiction fan and I am fascinated by anything to do with New Orleans, so this was the perfect set-up for me. Sepetys has a great writing style and I loved how complex and layered Out of the Easy was. I felt like I was walking the streets of the Quarter alongside Josie-- the setting was so well developed. There was something very beautiful about Out of the Easy and everything about it captivated me.

To begin with, all of the characters were wonderful. From the villainous Cincinnati to the loyal Cokie, every single character felt real. Josie, the protagonist, is someone I would love to get to know. Not only did she love books, but she was very brave and loyal to her friends. She fought for what she believed in and was not afraid of doing what was right. Her life was not an easy one, but she had such amazing support from all of her friends. I loved getting to know all of the different characters and seeing how their individual stories wove into the bigger picture.

There was a lot of mystery and intrigue in Out of the Easy and I often found myself on the edge of my seat. While there was romance, it was not the main focus, which was refreshing. It was apparent Sepetys had done her research and I truly felt transported back in time.

By the time I turned the last page, I was sad to be finished. I had gotten very attached to all of these characters and would love to see what is next for all of them, especially Josie. This was a wonderful sophomore novel and Ruta Sepetys has written a story that felt extremely real to me. I will definitely be picking up her debut novel soon and am looking forward to seeing what her next project is. 

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars 

February 13, 2013/Philomel Books/348 Pages/Young Adult

Source: Publisher (ARC)

Other books by this author: Between Shades of Gray
Links: Author Website/Goodreads 

Review: Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins

Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins

** summary contains spoilers for Hex Hall** 

Sophie Mercer thought she was a witch.

That was the whole reason she was sent to Hex Hall, a reform school for delinquent Prodigium (aka witches, shapeshifters, and fairies). But that was before she discovered the family secret, and that her hot crush, Archer Cross, is an agent for The Eye, a group bent on wiping Prodigium off the face of the earth.
Turns out, Sophie’s a demon, one of only two in the world—the other being her father. What’s worse, she has powers that threaten the lives of everyone she loves. Which is precisely why Sophie decides she must go to London for the Removal, a dangerous procedure that will destroy her powers.
But once Sophie arrives she makes a shocking discovery. Her new friends? They’re demons too. Meaning someone is raising them in secret with creepy plans to use their powers, and probably not for good. Meanwhile, The Eye is set on hunting Sophie down, and they’re using Archer to do it. But it’s not like she has feelings for him anymore. Does she?

Review: 

I am loving this series! After devouring the first book in the series, Hex Hall, I was eager to see what was next for Sophie and the rest of the characters and let me tell you: this book did not disappoint! If anything, it was even better than the prequel. I've already ordered Spell Bound from my library and am counting down the days until it arrives because the ending was such a cliffhanger! 

Demonglass picks up a few months after Hex Hall ended and Sophie is dealing with a lot. In Hex Hall, I really liked Sophie's character, but at times she seemed a bit immature. In Demonglass, Sophie has matured quite a bit and even though she maintains her classic sassy attitude, she is much more independent. I love Sophie's personality and her sarcasm and wit makes her one of my favorite characters to read about. She always responds to situations realistically and she certainly has a lot on her plate this time around. 

There were quite a few new characters introduced in Demonglass and barely any of them are what they seem. I'm so glad Jenna played just as big of a role in Demonglass because she is such a great character. Her and Sophie's friendship is such fun to read about and it is nice to see how important they are to each other. Then there's Sophie's father who we get to see a lot more of. It was nice to see Sophie getting to know him and learning more about their family history. Plus, Cal also has a much bigger part in Sophie's life now. I'm not one for love triangles, but I can kind of see why this one had to happen. I do have a soft spot for Archer though and am eager to see what will happen with him in Spellbound. 

The plot was extremely intense in Demonglass. There were all kinds of new mysteries and a ton of action. The villains were more evil and the last few chapters truly had me on the edge of my seat. I can't believe how everything ended because I just need to know what happened. I have so many questions and worries that Spell Bound can't get here soon enough!

Demonglass was a wonderful sequel to Hex Hall and I enjoyed it even more than the first book. It was action-packed, romantic, and mysterious, all of the things I love in a book. I highly recommend this series and am kicking myself for waiting so long to read it. 

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars

March 22, 2011/Hyperion Books/359 Pages/Young Adult/Book Two

Source: Publisher (ARC)

Other books in this series: Hex Hall (Book One) and Spell Bound (Book Three)

-- plus, a  new spin-off series is coming out in May of this year. The first book is called School Spirits!

Links: Author's Website/Goodreads 

Review: Etiquette and Espionage by Gail Carriger

Etiquette & Espionage by Gail Carriger 

It's one thing to learn to curtsy properly. It's quite another to learn to curtsy and throw a knife at the same time. Welcome to finishing school.
Fourteen-year-old Sophronia is the bane of her mother's existence. Sophronia is more interested in dismantling clocks and climbing trees than proper etiquette at tea--and god forbid anyone see her atrocious curtsy. Mrs. Temminnick is desperate for her daughter to become a proper lady. She enrolls Sophronia in Mademoiselle Geraldine's Finishing Academy for Young Ladies of Quality.
But little do Sophronia or her mother know that this is a school where ingenious young girls learn to finish, all right--but it's a different kind of finishing. Mademoiselle Geraldine's certainly trains young ladies in the finer arts of dance, dress, and etiquette, but also in the other kinds of finishing: the fine arts of death, diversion, deceit, espionage, and the modern weaponries. Sophronia and her friends are going to have a rousing first year at school.

Review: 

I have heard nothing but praise for Gail's adult novels (The Parasol Protectorate Series), but still have not got around to reading them. This will definitely be remedied after reading Etiquette and Espionage because it was such a great read. I have never read anything "steampunk" before, so Carriger's YA debut was my introduction to the genre. I loved how everything came together in the world Carriger has created and this is already one of the best books I have read this year. 

While Sophronia was only fourteen, I never felt like I was reading about someone that young. She was extremely mature and I loved her feistiness and sense of adventure. Sophronia is one of the youngest children in her family and her mother is constantly frustrated by her adventurous side. When Sophronia gets sent to Finishing School her life will never be the same. Because she is not only learning how to be a lady, but the fine arts of espionage as well. 

There is something that I especially love about books set at boarding schools and while they can sometimes be a hit or a miss, Etiquette and Espionage did everything right. While at first I was wondering if this would bring up inevitable comparisons to series like Ally Carter's Gallagher Girls books, this worry soon evaporated when I realized how different and original Carriger's new series was. Mademoiselle Geraldine's Finishing Academy for Young Ladies of Quality was such a great setting. It allowed Sophronia to meet a variety of new people and learn all sorts of things. I especially liked Dimity and Soap. Those were two friends who made a big impression on Sophronia and were always there for her through the good and bad.

The plot was extremely fun and filled with intrigue and adventure. Sophronia was never one to sit back and let others save the day and I loved that about her. She would do whatever she could to solve a mystery and learn the truth.

I thoroughly enjoyed Carriger's YA debut and cannot wait to see what is next for Sophronia and her friends. This was such a lighthearted and entertaining read and I loved everything about the world Gail Carriger has created. Steampunk is a new genre to me, but I'll definitely be searching for more steampunk books now because I so enjoyed Etiquette and Espionage.

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars

February 5, 2013/Little, Brown BFYR/320 Pages/Young Adult (w/ MG appeal)/Book One

Source: Netgalley

Other books in this series: Curtsies and Conspiracies (Book Two/2013) 

Links: Author's Website/Goodreads 

Review: Stealing Parker by Miranda Kenneally

Stealing Parker by Miranda Kenneally 

Red-hot author Miranda Kenneally hits one out of the park in this return to Catching Jordan's Hundred Oaks High.
Parker Shelton pretty much has the perfect life. She’s on her way to becoming valedictorian at Hundred Oaks High, she’s made the all-star softball team, and she has plenty of friends. Then her mother’s scandal rocks their small town and suddenly no one will talk to her.
Now Parker wants a new life.
So she quits softball. Drops twenty pounds. And she figures why kiss one guy when she can kiss three? Or four. Why limit herself to high school boys when the majorly cute new baseball coach seems especially flirty?
But how far is too far before she loses herself completely?

Review: 

I got several amazing books for Christmas, but this was the first one I started. I had enjoyed Kenneally's debut, Catching Jordan, but didn't love it. Luckily, Stealing Parker made me a permanent fan of Kenneally's because I enjoyed this one so much. Contemporary YA has been a hit or a miss with me for the last year, but I've recently read some tremendous books that have reaffirmed my love for this genre and Stealing Parker was one of them.

One of the things that made this book for me was Parker. She had been through so much, but never allowed herself to give up. There were times when she made stupid decisions, but doesn't every teenager? This just made her that much more realistic in my eyes. Parker's character was extremely complex and I loved how confident and sarcastic she was. This is a girl who can take care of herself. Plus, she has her best friend Drew at her side. I liked Drew a lot in the beginning, but, as the novel progressed, I started getting a tad frustrated with him. Just as in Catching Jordan, Parker had the guys at her back. I loved getting to see some of my favorite characters from Catching Jordan return in Stealing Parker and we even got some scenes with Jordan and Sam Henry! Yay!

The plot was very fast paced and when I started reading I sat down to only read a few pages and found myself finished a few hours later. I became so involved in Parker's life and all she was going through that I completely lost track of time. There were so many unique aspects to Stealing Parker: Kenneally tackles sex, love, homosexuality, religion, and a ton of other topics in such a powerful way. It was intriguing to see how Kenneally tied all of these issues into the book and I can promise you that if you think this is just a "sports" book, you are completely wrong. Still, there were plenty of baseball/softball moments, but they only served to further develop the characters and actually taught me a lot about the sports.

In addition to Drew, there are two other main male characters: Brian and Will (aka Corndog). I don't want to go into too much detail, but let me tell you, these two guys each surprised me in a variety of ways. I especially enjoyed seeing how Parker got to know Corndog better and every conversation they had made me smile. Brian was the new assistant baseball coach and his character definitely complicated things for Parker. All three of the guys in this book (Drew, Brian, and Corndog) all had some impact on Parker's life whether it was positive or negative and truly helped shape her character.

I highly recommend Stealing Parker and it is one of my new favorite contemps. The plot was unique and left me feeling a wide range of emotions. I became sincerely attached to several of the characters and I am looking forward to Kenneally's next release, Things I Can't Forget, not only because it sounds fantastic, but because I'm hoping to get to see how Parker is doing. If you're looking for a new author or are worried this does not live up to Catching Jordan, you need to pick this up, because I am sure you will not be disappointed. 

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars

October 1, 2012/Sourcebooks Fire/256 Pages/Young Adult

Source: Gift 

Other books by this author: Catching Jordan, Things I Can't Forget (2013), Racing Savannah (2013)
Links: Author Website/Goodreads

Review: Everneath by Brodi Ashton

Everneath by Brodi Ashton 

Last spring, Nikki Beckett vanished, sucked into an underworld known as the Everneath. Now she's returned--to her old life, her family, her boyfriend--before she's banished back to the underworld . . . this time forever. She has six months before the Everneath comes to claim her, six months for good-byes she can't find the words for, six months to find redemption, if it exists.
Nikki longs to spend these precious months forgetting the Everneath and trying to reconnect with her boyfriend, Jack, the person most devastated by her disappearance--and the one person she loves more than anything. But there's just one problem: Cole, the smoldering immortal who enticed her to the Everneath in the first place, has followed Nikki home. Cole wants to take over the throne in the underworld and is convinced Nikki is the key to making it happen. And he'll do whatever it takes to bring her back, this time as his queen.
As Nikki's time on the Surface draws to a close and her relationships begin slipping from her grasp, she is forced to make the hardest decision of her life: find a way to cheat fate and remain on the Surface with Jack or return to the Everneath and become Cole's queen.

Review: 

I am kicking myself for waiting so long to read this. Everneath was just fantastic and I am dying to get my hands on a copy of Everbound! This is one of the best debuts I have read all year. Brodi Ashton has written a romantic, heart-pounding, and intense novel with Everneath and I loved every minute of it. 

Everneath started off with a bang and continued at that fast pace until the very end. Nikki was such a likable character and I felt terrible for all she was dealing with. Nikki was someone I could see myself wanting to be friends with in the real world and her character was so well-developed. Everything Nikki had to face in Everneath showed how strong and independent she was. Nikki was not afraid to fight for what she believed in and she was a loyal friend. Each of the other characters were very rounded as well and the reader truly got to know each of them. The other two main characters, Cole and Jack, were very different from each other, but they both only wanted the best for Nikki. I liked seeing the backstories of how Nikki got to know each of them and seeing how everything came together. 

The plot was extremely unique and Ashton incorporated the mythology in such a new and refreshing way. Several different myths were brought into play in Everneath and it was interesting to see the comparisons between them and what Nikki was experiencing. There were quite a few twists and turns that kept me engaged and several things completely shocked me. I had a hard time setting Everneath down, especially towards the end when Nikki's time was running out. 

Everneath had been sitting on my shelf for months and I finally picked it up over my winter break and am so glad I did. It was action-packed and exciting, but it also had great romance. I thoroughly enjoyed Everneath and am so glad I finally picked it up. The ending left me running to Amazon to pre-order the sequel and I can't wait to see what's next for all of the characters. I highly recommend this book! Plus who wouldn't want that gorgeous cover on their shelf? 

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars

January 24, 2012/Balzer + Bray/370 Pages/Young Adult/Book One

Source: Publisher (ARC)

Other books in this series: Everbound (#2, 2013)
Links: Author Website/Goodreads 

Review: Cracked by KM Walton

Cracked by K.M. Walton 

Sometimes there's no easy way out.
Victor hates his life. He has no friends, gets beaten up at school, and his parents are always criticizing him. Tired of feeling miserable, Victor takes a bottle of his mother's sleeping pills—only to wake up in the hospital.
Bull is angry, and takes all of his rage out on Victor. That makes him feel better, at least a little. But it doesn't stop Bull's grandfather from getting drunk and hitting him. So Bull tries to defend himself with a loaded gun.
When Victor and Bull end up as roommates in the same psych ward, there's no way to escape each other or their problems. Which means things are going to get worse—much worse—before they get better….

Review: 

It's hard to believe this was Walton's debut novel because it was that good. I hope people pick up Cracked because it is a powerful and hard-hitting story that will affect every reader. Cracked had been sitting on my shelf for a long time, but I decided to pick it up on a whim and it left me incredibly emotional. I've heard this book compared to those of Amy Reed and Ellen Hopkins, but I think Cracked is in a league of its own because of the characters. 

Cracked is told from the perspective of both Bull and Victor and this adds a level of complexity to the novel. While many stories about bullying only give you one perspective, the reader gets to see into both Bull and Victor's heads. Bull torments Victor in school, but they are so far from the stereotypes people might associate them with. Victor is not the weak, spoiled, rich kid with the perfect home life and Bull is not the unfeeling, rash bully. Victor and Bull are very real and believable characters. My heart went out to both of them and while Bull's actions are inexcusable, being able to see what a terrible home life he had made him more three-dimensional. Bull had to deal with his alcoholic and abusive mother and grandfather and Victor had to face a lonely, loveless life with two cold, and uncaring parents. These very different lives demonstrated how you can never judge someone without stepping into their shoes and experiencing what they do first. I felt for both of these characters and I was quickly involved in both of their stories. 

The short chapters made it hard to set this aside for a second and I ended up finishing it in one day. A lot happens to these two individuals in just over 300 pages and Walton really packed a punch with Cracked. Suicide, depression, domestic violence, family life, love, and bullying are all tackled in Cracked, but nothing seems forced and this is not what you might call an "issues" book. Cracked could easily be about any person in the world and I'm sure many readers will relate to at least one of the characters in some way. There is not too much I can say about this book without giving things away, so I suggest picking it up for yourself to see what happens. 

Going into Cracked, I didn't expect to get so emotional, but it happened many times. Bull and Victor are two stand-out characters and their stories were heartbreaking. I am looking forward to reading more by K.M. Walton in the future and sharing her debut novel with as many people as I can. 

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars

January 3, 2012/Simon Pulse/311 Pages/Young Adult

Source: Publisher 

Review: The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson

The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson

The day Louisiana teenager Rory Deveaux arrives in London marks a memorable occasion. For Rory, it's the start of a new life at a London boarding school. But for many, this will be remembered as the day a series of brutal murders broke out across the city, gruesome crimes mimicking the horrific Jack the Ripper events of more than a century ago.

Soon “Rippermania” takes hold of modern-day London, and the police are left with few leads and no witnesses. Except one. Rory spotted the man police believe to be the prime suspect. But she is the only one who saw him. Even her roommate, who was walking with her at the time, didn't notice the mysterious man. So why can only Rory see him? And more urgently, why has Rory become his next target? In this edge-of-your-seat thriller, full of suspense, humor, and romance, Rory will learn the truth about the secret ghost police of London and discover her own shocking abilities.

Review:

Ever since I first read 13 Little Blue Envelopes a few years back, I have been eager to read more by Maureen Johnson, but somehow never got around to it. I remember rushing out to buy this book the day it came out and then it sat on my shelf for a long time, until I received an ARC of the sequel in the mail and decided it was high time I had read this. Luckily, it surpassed my expectations and was a delightfully funny, creepy, and adventurous read that secured Maureen Johnson's spot on my favorite authors list.

Although I consider myself a bit of a history buff, I did not know much about Jack the Ripper before picking up The Name of the Star. It was clear Johnson had done her research and I learned more about Jack the Ripper by reading this book than I ever could have from a history textbook. Maureen Johnson took the Jack the Ripper mystery and truly made it her own. I was often on the edge of my seat and I can say this is one of the few books that actually freaked me out! Johnson did not shy away from giving necessary details and this made the book all the more intense and intriguing. 

Rory was a fantastic protagonist. I immediately knew I would like her because when she found out her parents would be teaching for a year in England, she jumped at the chance to study abroad her senior year. I've often read young adult books where the main character gets an amazing chance to go abroad and just complains until they get there and realize how wrong they were. In the case of Rory, she was the complete opposite and I loved how adventurous and outgoing she was. Rory was funny and energetic and even a little awkward; she was completely real. 

The plot was very complex and developed and the mystery was very well done. The Name of the Star is kind of a mash-up of genres (historical, paranormal, mystery, etc) and it worked so well. I was so caught up in Rory's stories and the mysteries that I finished the book in one day. 

The secondary characters were well done too and I especially liked Jazza and Boo. Each person had a unique role in the story and there were no flat or unnecessary characters. The only thing I didn't completely love was the romance, mostly because I never truly saw the spark. But, I did like that The Name of the Star did not focus on the romance very much and was more dedicated to Rory and everything that was happening in London, because it would have seemed too forced otherwise. Still, I'm interested in seeing where Johnson will take things for them in the sequel. 

All in all, I'm kicking myself for waiting so long to read this and I've already begun reading The Madness Underneath, book two in the series. I highly recommend The Name of the Star because it is a book any type of reader will enjoy and I'm eager to see what's next for Rory and the rest of the characters.

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars

September 29, 2011/Putnam Juvenile/372 Pages/Young Adult/Book One

Source: Purchased

Other books in this series: The Madness Underneath (February 2013) 

Review: From What I Remember... by Stacy Kramer and Valerie Thomas

From What I Remember... by Stacy Kramer & Valerie Thomas

KYLIE: MEXICO WHAT? I should be putting the finishing touches on my valedictorian speech. Graduation is TODAY, and is this a wedding band on my finger.
MAX: It all started with Kylie's laptop and a truck full of stolen electronics. Okay, it was kind of hot, the way she broke us out like some chick in an action movie. But now we're stranded in Tijuana. With less than twenty-four hours before graduation. Awesome.

WILL: Saving Kylie Flores from herself is kind of a full-time occupation. Luckily, I, Will Bixby, was born for the job. And when I found out she was stuck in Mexico with dreamy Max Langston, sure, I agreed to bring their passports across the border -- but there's no reason to rush back home right away. This party is just getting started.

LILY: I just walked in on my boyfriend, Max Langston, canoodling with Kylie Flores, freak of the century. Still, I can't completely hold it against him. He NEEDS me. It's even clearer now. And I'm not giving him up without a fight.

Review:

Yes, yes, yes! I loved this book! As is clear from many of my recent reviews I have a soft spot for contemporary and this book just combined everything I love about contemporary YA into one big package. From What I Remember... had romance, adventure, mystery, and fun. I've heard this book described as The Hangover for teens and I can see where that comparison may make sense, but this book was so much more. Sometimes books told from multiple points of view just do not work, but even though From What I Remember... was told through the eyes of four different people, it worked perfectly and made me enjoy the book that much more. I have to say, this just may be one of my favorite contemporary reads of the year and I am so glad I picked it up. 

The plot of From What I Remember... was terrific and it had me glued to the pages; just having to know what was going to happen next. A lot of crazy things happen in a short amount of time, but I loved experiencing everything alongside the different characters. As much as I adored the plot, the characters made the book for me. Kylie, Will, Max, and Lily were each so different and complex and I loved that none of them were "cookie-cutter characters". Every chapter peeled back more of their individual layers and proved there was much more to each of them than met the eye. 

I don't want to spoil anything, but let me tell you, these characters get themselves into some sticky situations! While From What I Remember... often had me laughing, there was also a serious side that dealt with intense issues. Stacy Kramer and Valerie Thomas seem to have a real knack for understanding teenagers and it showed in their writing. They weren't afraid to take risks and I enjoyed every minute of this book. 

This review would not be complete without mentioning all of the film references. There was a quote from a movie at the start of every chapter and many more references sprinkled in-- which I LOVED! Many of my favorite films were mentioned in this book and I learned about several others that I know I need to check out now. 

From What I Remember... was a wonderful summer read and one I will surely be recommending to my friends. My only regret is not having picked it up sooner because I enjoyed it so much. I stayed up until 3 AM reading because I just had to know how everything would end. Even though this book might seem long, it is a fast paced read that I had a hard time putting down. This is now going to be one of my go-to contemporary recommendations and I am eager to see what Stacy and Valerie write next! 

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars

May 15, 2012/Hyperion/462 pages/Young Adult

Source: Publisher (ARC)

Other books by these authors: Karma Bites

Review: In Honor by Jessi Kirby

In Honor by Jessi Kirby 

Honor receives her brother's last letter from Iraq three days after learning that he died, and opens it the day his fellow Marines lay the flag over his casket. Its contents are a complete shock: concert tickets to see Kyra Kelly, her favorite pop star and Finn's celebrity crush. In his letter, he jokingly charged Honor with the task of telling Kyra Kelly that he was in love with her.
Grief-stricken and determined to grant Finn's last request, she rushes to leave immediately. But she only gets as far as the driveway before running into Rusty, Finn's best friend since third grade and his polar opposite. She hasn't seen him in ages, thanks to a falling out between the two guys, but Rusty is much the same as Honor remembers him: arrogant, stubborn. . . and ruggedly good looking. Neither one is what the other would ever look for in a road trip partner, but the two of them set off together, on a voyage that makes sense only because it doesn't. Along the way, they find small and sometimes surprising ways to ease their shared loss and honor Finn--but when shocking truths are revealed at the end of the road, will either of them be able to cope with the consequences?

Review: 

Jessi Kirby's debut, Moonglass, was one of my favorite books of 2011, so I was thrilled when I got an ARC of In Honor in the mail- and devoured it right away. I was crying within the first couple of pages and by the end of the book I had felt a roller coaster of emotions. In Honor was another wonderful contemporary novel by Jessi Kirby that tugged at my heartstrings, yet also made me laugh. I cannot recommend Jessi's books enough and I highly recommend picking this up come spring. 

After learning that her brother died in Iraq, Honor decides to set off on a road trip to fulfill the request Finn made in his last letter, to tell celebrity Kyra Kelly that he loved her. This was so far from your typical "road trip book" and I adored that. Honor was a strong protagonist and I enjoyed getting to know her over the course of the story. She had felt so much loss in her life and my heart went out to her. Finn sounded like a great brother and it was nice to get to know his character through Honor's flashbacks and memories. Honor has to face a lot about herself and her brother on the road trip and by the end of the book she is almost a different person. It was great to be able to go on this journey with her and to see Honor try and come to terms with what happened. But she didn't have to do it alone. 

Tagging alone on the road trip is Finn's best friend, Rusty. Rusty is just like Honor remembered him and she is having a hard time giving him a chance. Rusty was a very unique character and the perfect road trip partner for Honor. He was there for her when things got tough and while the trip wasn't always easy, they made a lot of memories. 

The road trip was fun to experience, but it wasn't the main focus of the book. There were so many sub-plots going on that tied together perfectly and this is a book I won't soon forget. 

Jessi Kirby is a great writer and In Honor only made me love her writing more. She created a wonderful set of characters and this book truly packed a punch. I had a hard time putting this down for a second and I am eager to talk about it with my friends after they've had a chance to read. Contemporary novels hold a special place in my heart and In Honor only further proved why this is true. Highly recomended!

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars

May 8, 2012/Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing/288 Pages/Young Adult

Source: Author/Publisher

Other books by this author: Moonglass 

Review: The Difference Between You and Me by Madeleine George

The Difference Between You and Me by Madeleine George 

Jesse cuts her own hair with a Swiss Army knife. She wears big green fisherman's boots. She's the founding (and only) member of NOLAW, the National Organization to Liberate All Weirdos. Emily wears sweaters with faux pearl buttons. She's vice president of the student council. She has a boyfriend.
These two girls have nothing in common, except the passionate "private time" they share every Tuesday afternoon. Jesse wishes their relationship could be out in the open, but Emily feels she has too much to lose. When they find themselves on opposite sides of a heated school conflict, they each have to decide what's more important: what you believe in, or the one you love?

Review:

I borrowed this novel from my teacher because I'd remembered seeing it on a few Waiting on Wednesday posts and I always enjoy a good contemporary. Madeleine George's latest release, The Difference Between You and Me was a unique and heartwarming story that I'm glad I took the chance to read. I'm ashamed to say I didn't read the summary beforehand and just assumed the cover spotlighted a male and female. I soon realized this wasn't the case and it made me happy to see this book wasn't going to be my typical read. Jesse and Emily were two original, and very different, characters and I enjoyed getting to know them. I haven't read anything by Madeline George before, but she's definitely on my watch list now!

This novel is told in alternating chapters between Jesse and Emily. Jesse is a bit of a rebel and isn't afraid to be herself. Emily, on the other hand, is an organized, put together student council member with a boyfriend. You wouldn't think the pair even knew each other, but they do. Emily and Jesse meet up in the library bathroom every Tuesday afternoon. Their "relationship" was more physical than anything, but as the novel progressed, we got to see the two develop and get to know each other beyond these Tuesday meetings when a school debate sets them on opposite sides. 

The duel point of views really helped me get to know both of these girls and understand them and their motivations. Jesse was involved in a lot of human rights activities and her parents were very likable. Jesse's friends were another set of secondary characters I liked getting to know. Emily wasn't my favorite person, but by seeing things from her side I was able to understand her better. 

The Difference Between You and Me was not a romance per se, it was much more than that. I'm glad I read something I normally might not have picked up and was able to see what a great author Madeline George really is. There was much more to the story than Emily and Jesse's connection, but it also tackled bigger issues like the effect big businesses have on a small town, etc. 

I definitely recommend giving this book a chance come March even if you might think it is outside your comfort zone. I loved getting to know Jesse and Emily and the other characters introduced over the course of the story. Madeline George has created a wonderful contemporary novel in The Difference Between You and Me and I can't wait to see what's next for her. 

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars

March 15, 2012/Viking Juvenile/256 Pages/Young Adult

Source: Borrowed from teacher (ARC)

Review: The Mockingbirds by Daisy Whitney

The Mockingbirds by Daisy Whitney

Some schools have honor codes.
Others have handbooks.
Themis Academy has the Mockingbirds.
Themis Academy is a quiet boarding school with an exceptional student body that the administration trusts to always behave the honorable way--the Themis Way. So when Alex is date raped during her junior year, she has two options: stay silent and hope someone helps her, or enlist the Mockingbirds--a secret society of students dedicated to righting the wrongs of their fellow peers.
In this honest, page-turning account of a teen girl's struggle to stand up for herself, debut author Daisy Whitney reminds readers that if you love something or someone--especially yourself--you fight for it.

Review: 

I loved this book! The Mockingbirds has been on my shelf since BEA 2010- that is crazy long. I don't know why I took so long to read it, but since I have an ARC of the sequel waiting to be read I figured this was as good a time as any. This was a heartbreaking and intense read, but it had a great message and a plot that sucked me in from the first page. I can't wait to pick up The Rivals and see what happens next. 

Alex was such a brave character. Her experience at Themis Academy was awful and I can't imagine the pain and heartache she felt after being date-raped by a boy she barely knew. Even worse, the school would do nothing so she is left with consulting the secret honor society known as The Mockingbirds that helps their fellow students. I feel as though Alex would be someone I could be friends with in real life. She was strong and determined and even at her worst moment she came out fighting. I admired her dedication to gaining justice and how she wasn't afraid to show her emotions when things got especially tough. 

This was certainly a page-turner because I just had to know what was going to happen. There were quite a few plot twists and Alex only starts remembering the night of her rape very slowly and each memory helps her in trying to piece together what really happened. The Mockingbirds has a unique premise and the idea of a secret society righting the wrongs committed against their fellow students is such an original idea. The Mockingbirds may seem like an unbelievable group, but it worked. 

I have never dealt with what Alex had to (thankfully), but I still felt for her and wanted her to be able to seek justice and move on with her life. Luckily, she had a great support system in her friends and sister. The secondary characters were a great group (especially TS and Martin) and I liked getting to know them all and better understand their role in the story. 

Contemporary YA is my favorite genre and The Mockingbirds once again reminded me why this is true. Daisy Whitney's debut was a brave and intense read that will open teen's eyes to something not often talked about- date rape. While this did deal with a very serious issue, there was still humor and romance, which I loved. 

Overall, The Mockingbirds is a book I will definitely be recommending to my friends and I hope if you haven't picked it up yet, you will. I'm so glad I have The Rivals on my TBR shelf because I can dive right into it!

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars

November 2, 2010/Little, Brown BFYR/332 Pages/Young Adult/Book One

Source: BEA '10 

Other books in this series: The Rivals

Review: Article 5 by Kristen Simmons

Article 5 by Kristen Simmons 

New York, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C., have been abandoned.
The Bill of Rights has been revoked, and replaced with the Moral Statutes.
There are no more police—instead, there are soldiers. There are no more fines for bad behavior—instead, there are arrests, trials, and maybe worse. People who get arrested usually don't come back.
Seventeen-year-old Ember Miller is old enough to remember that things weren’t always this way. Living with her rebellious single mother, it’s hard for her to forget that people weren’t always arrested for reading the wrong books or staying out after dark. It’s hard to forget that life in the United States used to be different.
Ember has perfected the art of keeping a low profile. She knows how to get the things she needs, like food stamps and hand-me-down clothes, and how to pass the random home inspections by the military. Her life is as close to peaceful as circumstances allow.

That is, until her mother is arrested for noncompliance with Article 5 of the Moral Statutes. And one of the arresting officers is none other than Chase Jennings…the only boy Ember has ever loved.

Review:

Article 5 was a heart-pounding and intense debut that will surely be flying off the shelves in January. I had heard wonderful things about this book before I started it and was worried it wouldn't live up to my expectations. The dystopian genre is one of my favorites and I loved how original and thrilling Article 5 was. Kristen Simmons presented this futuristic society in a highly believable and frightening way. People's true colors were shown and the characters faced intense circumstances. This is one of the first Tor Teen books I have read and it definitely left a strong impression on me!

Ember Miller is seventeen when her life changes. She lives with her single mother and can still remember the times when people were not arrested for breaking one of the newly enforced Moral Statutes. Those who are taken away by the soldiers usually do not come back and some of America's biggest cities are abandoned. The premise of Article 5 was something different in the dystopian genre and her world building was very well developed. I wish we got to learn more of the background on the war and the Moral Statutes, but hopefully some of that information will be discussed in the sequel.

There was nonstop action in Article 5 and the characters were fantastic. Ember was a strong heroine and her dedication to her mother was inspiring. I was constantly rooting for Ember and I wonder if I could have displayed the courage she showed in some near death experiences. Ember faced so many tough situations and she was an, overall, loyal and brave character that was the perfect narrator for Article 5.

In addition to Ember, there were several more unique characters. Chase was conflicted, but I loved getting to know him over the course of the story and see his romance with Ember emerge. Their journey was filled with danger and Kristen Simmons did not hold back in making this book as gritty and intense as she could. Everything that the characters faced was believable and had me gripping the pages. I was extremely anxious to know what was going to happen to both the main characters and the world as a whole.

Article 5 was a fantastically written debut that will draw in any reader (male or female) and have them glued to the pages until the end. Although there was romance, it wasn't the main focus of the story, which made it that much better. Ember and Chase were extremely well done main characters and I can't wait to see what is going to happen in the sequel.

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars

January 31, 2012/Tor Teen/368 Pages/Young Adult/Book One

Source: Borrowed from teacher (ARC)