This is going to be the last of this series, which is kind of sad. I'm glad that I did this, even though I have different plans for 2015. I hope your year has been great, and I wish you well for 2015. And now - the books.
The Raven Boys & The Dream Thieves by Maggie Stiefvater (5/5)
You might be having déjà vu, I'm having déjà vu. Yes, I reread these books less then a month after reading them for the first time. I wasn't reading anything and wanted to get myself back into it and I just love these books. It's the kind of thing where it I'm completely biased now and you cannot change my opinion about it for anything.
Percy Jackson's Greek Gods by Rick Riordan (3/5)
It was... good. It was cute at points or funny, but I guess since I knew about 85% of these myths, I was just kind of eh. Also - it felt like he was trying to hard, at points, to add in that zingy, silly PJ humor. Which I love, but the constant jokes about modern stuff made me want to hit my head against the wall.
The Clockwork Scarab (Stoker & Holmes #1) by Colleen Gleason (3/5)
This was a lot of fun - steampunk, but with some strange elements. I did enjoy it, but I also wasn't crazy about it. I know there are reasons for it, mostly because I was bored for the first part of it and then wasn't really invested for the stuff. The stakes never felt high, even though they were.
Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns) by Mindy Kaling (5/5)
It is no surprise I loved this book - it was witty and fun and ridiculously good. I'm so glad I ended up reading it and am definitely going to trust everyone more about these funny female memoirs.
The Girl from the Well by Rin Chupeco (5/5)
I loved the first chapter or so, just was like: yes, give me more, that was fucking awesome. But I wasn't really in a reading mood, so I didn't force it when I started to loose interests. and I'm really glad I didn't because it is a little slow at points. However - I don't think that's bad, it's just slower, and I really enjoyed this book.
The Queen of the Tearling (The Queen of the Tearling #1) by Erika Johansen (4/5)
A fantastic adult.... fantasy/scifi thing. I'd suggest not looking too much into it, if you want to read it, because I didn't and it was kind of a delight to find things out. It's slow at points and some of the writing can drag - but overall I loved this book, the story, and I'm looking forward to book two now.
The Young Elites (The Young Elites #1) by Marie Lu (3/5)
Good. I liked it. It was dark and strange, but it also dragged a bit, at points, or I just had trouble getting into it. I'm not sure why, but some things just jarred me out of the story a bit. Still, I'm definitely going to be continuing with this series.
The Shining Girls by Lauren Beukes (5/5)
This book was fantastic - there's time travel, there's serial killers. There's random things brought up from history that are so obviously heavily researched and I loved that they were there - radium girls, for example, or underground abortion groups. It's very good and very dark. And I highly recommend it if you like, or don't mind, those kinds of things.
And that's it - that's the year. I'm not going to be reading anything else this year, a little surprisingly, but I am very pleased with what I have gotten done. Very pleased. I'll be posting all kinds of things the beginning of January - favorites, a yearly reading wrap-up, most anticipated for 2015. All kinds of things!
See you in the new year.
Showing posts with label 2014 book reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2014 book reviews. Show all posts
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Monday, December 29, 2014
2014: Book Reviews (17)
Part seventeen, I can't believe how far this little series has gone (and this is definitely not going to be the last part). Before I get onto any tangents - onto the books!
Chew, Vol. 2 & 3 by John Layman (4/5)
Oh man. I keep liking these more and more, great series.
The Wicked and the Divine #2 & The Wicked and the Divine #3 by Kieron Gillen (5/5)
This comic series, I'm going to end up also buying the bind up. It's just gorgeous and I love the colors, and the story/characters.
Old Man's War (Old Man's War #1) by John Scalzi (5/5)
A very interesting book and was intense as hell, at points, but also really funny. I highly recommend Scalzi, and I can't wait to read more books in this series.
172 Hours on the Moon by Johan Harstad (2/5)
I enjoyed the beginning of this book, but as it went on, I just... eh.
Half-Bad by Sally Green (2/5)
I enjoyed the flashbacks and such more then the actual story, and I don't think I'll be continuing on with the series. (Unless I forget how much I didn't like this one, which is possible).
The Raven Boys (The Raven Cycle #1) by Maggie Stiefvater (5/5)
I loved this book more then I expected to. It made me squeal, which hasn't happened in a long time, being so blindly in love with a book.
Click-Clack the Rattlebag by Neil Gaiman (5/5)
A small little audiobook that was free on Audible for Halloween times. It was cute and creepy.
Hawkeye, Vol 3 + Up to #19 by Matt Fraction (5/5)
I love this series - it's fantastic and gorgeous. And I like this Clint, Kate, and the bad guys.
The Dream Thieves (THe Raven Cycle #2) by Maggie Stiefvater (5/5)
I was surprised at how much I loved this one, considering my love for the first one. I never thought a hug would give me so many feels - I love these characters, all of them. So much. Now I want to reread these and read the third one. Gah. (Saying that, I wrote this before rereading them, and now that I've reread them - I still feel the same, I might love them more. So freaking good, but also probably not for everyone with the writing style).
White Cat, Red Gloves, Black Heart (#1-3) by Holly Black (5/5)
I read these book back to back, and I definitely think it made me love it more, but also I was just in the mood for exactly this kind of thing.
Howl's Moving Castle (Howl's Moving Castle #1) by Dianna Wynne Jones (5/5)
I can't believe how long it took me to read this book, and watch the movie. This is one of those rare moments where I think I liked the movie more? But it's hard to say because I loved both of them, and I think I just think that because I saw the movie first (and Howl's castle was so cool in the movie).
No Plot? No Problem: Revised and Expanded by Chris Baty (5/5)
This is by the lovely creator of NaNoWriMo and it's about writing a book in a month, and I tend to read it every year. And this year I splurged on the new edition, which is signed if you buy it from the NaNo store. Highly recommended.
The Siren (The Original Sinners #1) by Tiffany Reisz (5/5)
I was pleasantly surprised by this, someone recommended it on a post (or to me, I can't remember). And it has pretty high ratings on Goodreads. (Not for younger or squeamish audiences)
Wallbanger (Cocktail #1) by Alice Clayton (3/5)
I wasn't expecting what this was, but it ended up being really cute and funny. I'm not sure if I'll continue on with this series, because I just liked how this ended, but we'll see.
Girl in Love (Kylie Ryans #3) by Caisey Quinn (2/5)
I don't want to talk about the fact that I finished this series, when I was only ever eh about it. These are the things I read at 4am, when I can't focus on worldbuilding and have less energy to be furiously annoyed at the immature way the characters act. Still - it's fun, I guess, which is why I continued with it.
Rock Chick (Rock Chick #1) by Kristen Ashley
I skimmed a lot of this book, I just did not enjoy it. It was boring, at first, a little ridiculous. And then the main love interest made me want to sit the girl down and explain to her that she was a person. And that's all I'm going to say, since I basically DNFed it with the skimming.
The Unknown Unknown by Mark Forsyth (5/5)
This is an essay about bookshops and the importance of them. I really enjoyed it, but I also think some of it was one sided in thought. Because, yes, real bookshops always expose me to stuff I've never heard of, but so do people. Or the internet - people talking about stuff in blogs, forums, videos. I'd of never found quite a few of my recent favorites if it weren't for the internet.
Jackaby by Will Ritter (5/5)
This book was a ton of fun. At the beginning, I wasn't too sure about it, and then I was just sucked in. The atmosphere was interesting, the use of supernatural creatures now often used, or used right (I was sold by a certain banshee, I loved that heart-wrenching depiction, it felt very real and horrible).
Chew, Vol. 2 & 3 by John Layman (4/5)
Oh man. I keep liking these more and more, great series.
The Wicked and the Divine #2 & The Wicked and the Divine #3 by Kieron Gillen (5/5)
This comic series, I'm going to end up also buying the bind up. It's just gorgeous and I love the colors, and the story/characters.
Old Man's War (Old Man's War #1) by John Scalzi (5/5)
A very interesting book and was intense as hell, at points, but also really funny. I highly recommend Scalzi, and I can't wait to read more books in this series.
172 Hours on the Moon by Johan Harstad (2/5)
I enjoyed the beginning of this book, but as it went on, I just... eh.
Half-Bad by Sally Green (2/5)
I enjoyed the flashbacks and such more then the actual story, and I don't think I'll be continuing on with the series. (Unless I forget how much I didn't like this one, which is possible).
The Raven Boys (The Raven Cycle #1) by Maggie Stiefvater (5/5)
I loved this book more then I expected to. It made me squeal, which hasn't happened in a long time, being so blindly in love with a book.
Click-Clack the Rattlebag by Neil Gaiman (5/5)
A small little audiobook that was free on Audible for Halloween times. It was cute and creepy.
Hawkeye, Vol 3 + Up to #19 by Matt Fraction (5/5)
I love this series - it's fantastic and gorgeous. And I like this Clint, Kate, and the bad guys.
The Dream Thieves (THe Raven Cycle #2) by Maggie Stiefvater (5/5)
I was surprised at how much I loved this one, considering my love for the first one. I never thought a hug would give me so many feels - I love these characters, all of them. So much. Now I want to reread these and read the third one. Gah. (Saying that, I wrote this before rereading them, and now that I've reread them - I still feel the same, I might love them more. So freaking good, but also probably not for everyone with the writing style).
White Cat, Red Gloves, Black Heart (#1-3) by Holly Black (5/5)
I read these book back to back, and I definitely think it made me love it more, but also I was just in the mood for exactly this kind of thing.
Howl's Moving Castle (Howl's Moving Castle #1) by Dianna Wynne Jones (5/5)
I can't believe how long it took me to read this book, and watch the movie. This is one of those rare moments where I think I liked the movie more? But it's hard to say because I loved both of them, and I think I just think that because I saw the movie first (and Howl's castle was so cool in the movie).
No Plot? No Problem: Revised and Expanded by Chris Baty (5/5)
This is by the lovely creator of NaNoWriMo and it's about writing a book in a month, and I tend to read it every year. And this year I splurged on the new edition, which is signed if you buy it from the NaNo store. Highly recommended.
The Siren (The Original Sinners #1) by Tiffany Reisz (5/5)
I was pleasantly surprised by this, someone recommended it on a post (or to me, I can't remember). And it has pretty high ratings on Goodreads. (Not for younger or squeamish audiences)
Wallbanger (Cocktail #1) by Alice Clayton (3/5)
I wasn't expecting what this was, but it ended up being really cute and funny. I'm not sure if I'll continue on with this series, because I just liked how this ended, but we'll see.
Girl in Love (Kylie Ryans #3) by Caisey Quinn (2/5)
I don't want to talk about the fact that I finished this series, when I was only ever eh about it. These are the things I read at 4am, when I can't focus on worldbuilding and have less energy to be furiously annoyed at the immature way the characters act. Still - it's fun, I guess, which is why I continued with it.
Rock Chick (Rock Chick #1) by Kristen Ashley
I skimmed a lot of this book, I just did not enjoy it. It was boring, at first, a little ridiculous. And then the main love interest made me want to sit the girl down and explain to her that she was a person. And that's all I'm going to say, since I basically DNFed it with the skimming.
The Unknown Unknown by Mark Forsyth (5/5)
This is an essay about bookshops and the importance of them. I really enjoyed it, but I also think some of it was one sided in thought. Because, yes, real bookshops always expose me to stuff I've never heard of, but so do people. Or the internet - people talking about stuff in blogs, forums, videos. I'd of never found quite a few of my recent favorites if it weren't for the internet.
Jackaby by Will Ritter (5/5)
This book was a ton of fun. At the beginning, I wasn't too sure about it, and then I was just sucked in. The atmosphere was interesting, the use of supernatural creatures now often used, or used right (I was sold by a certain banshee, I loved that heart-wrenching depiction, it felt very real and horrible).
Thursday, December 11, 2014
2014: Book Reviews (16)
Part sixteen, I'm catching up surprisingly quickly, maybe I will be able to get these all up by the end of the year. As long as I don't read another ridiculous amount of books in December, we should be fine. Saying that, though, I think we should be getting right into the books.
Girl on Tour (Kylie Ryans #2) by Caisey Quinn (2/5)
My only note that I wrote down, after finishing this, was 'eh.' Which is think is a good explanation for how I feel about these books. These don't involve any thought to read, and the main character makes me want to shake her, at times, she's so... much still a teenager and so childish and no one ever just talks to each other. Argh.
Imitation in Death (In Death #17) by J.D. Robb (5/5)
I really enjoyed this one - the copying of past serial killers is one of my favorite things (wow, that sounded creepy), and it was really interesting in this book. And, of course, I just over the characters to death.
Warbreaker (Warbreaker #1) by Brandon Sanderson (5/5)
I thought this was a standalone, at first, but I'm really glad he's going to expand on the story. Anyway - I really enjoyed this book. It was a lot different then what I expected, though his books always are, and while it was a little slow in the beginning, I kind of liked it that way. Really, really good.
The Think of the Doorstep by H.P Lovecraft (5/5)
Look, I read some Lovecraft! Technically, I think this was a short story, but it honestly creeped me out? I'm not sure why, books don't normally creep me out or scare me, but this one just... made me shiver a little. I'm slogging through a book with a bunch of his short stories right now - they're good, his language is just strangely dense, at least to me, and also I'd rather not read it before bed and dream of evil sea gods. Highly recommend checking out his stuff, though, what I've read so far is very good.
The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson (4/5)
This was also different then expected, I didn't know it wasn't told from Jekyll's point of view - but I actually really enjoyed it that way. It was strange and very interesting. I'm glad I gave Stevenson another try, after not being able to finish Treasure Island. Though, I've always loved the Jekyll/Hyde stuff that came off this (this ended in me marathoning the BBC show Jekyll, actually. Surprisingly held up after so many years).
The Heroes of Olympus #1-4 by Rick Riordan (5/5)
I'm seperating out the last book for some reason - all of these were rereads, first of all. But I also don't want to spoil any of this series - if you liked Percy Jackson and the Olympians, then I'd definitely give this one a try, knowing it isn't Percy central, though they do show up. I really enjoyed this series, Riordan's books are fun and strange at points, and I like the humor.
The Demigod Files by Rick Riordan (5/5)
Short stories. I, surprisingly, hadn't read this before even though I bought it at some point intending to do so. It was cute, short and sweet, and I'm glad I read it before rereading House of Hades.
Percy Jackson: The Ultimate Guide by Riordan (3/5)
It was... cute? It was informative, but of information I already new. Maybe a good way to refresh yourself of what happened, but I kind of expected some new stuff, even a little, and I didn't find a scrap
The Blood of Olympus (Heroes of Olympus #5) by Rick Riordan (5/5)
I adored this book - I know people had some problems with Percy and Annabeth kind of being pushed to background characters (among other problems that I'm not going to get into because spoilers), and that did annoy me a bit. But I was too over the moon about chapters from Nico's perspective. That's a main thing I wanted from this book and I got it, and am mildly obsessed with the Nico/Will thing, well I was right after reading this. I do kind of wish, even though I know it's a middle grade book, Riordan touched more heavily on how probably fucked up, excuse the language, all of these kids are. I'm thinking Percy, Annabeth, and Nico might need some therapy, and those two are definitely going to have extreme separation anxiety. Not to mention all the PTSD (and nightmares, and dreams).
The Arrival by Shaun Tan (5/5)
This was more a work of art then a graphic novel. It was truly gorgeous and incredible. There are no words in this graphic novel and I highly suggest checking it out.
East of West, Vols 1, 2, &3 by Jonathan Hickman, Nick Dragotta (5/5)
I didn't know what to expect picking up volume 1 - all I knew was strange possible future, apocalypse, four horsemen, a wild west-ish vibe. Holy shit, guys, this is a fantastic comic series. I loved these three and I am itching to get my hands on volume 4. Apparently this wraps up 'year one' of the series, and I don't know when they're going to keep going, if they are (I think they are, nothing is decided here, guys, give me more).
Chew, Volume 1 by John Layman
I... wasn't sure what to expect, but I ended up loving this. The different art style, the gore, the whole 'mythology,' the characters - I loved all of it and it was all slightly ridiculous. Fantastic - the whole black market chicken then is hilarious.
Through the Woods by Emily Carroll (4/5)
Lovely, beautiful art work (seriously it's stunning). A strange series of comic short stories, and a little sad.
In Real Live by Cory Doctorow, Jen Wang (4/5)
The illustrations in this, the colors, were lovely. It reminded me, originally, of Sword Art Online - the being inside a video game things. But then I realized they weren't, it was just how they were showing it. Still - I really enjoyed it, a lot of fun.
Captain Marvel, Volume 1: Higher, Further, Faster, More by Kelly Sue DeConnick (4/5)
I enjoyed this more then I expected - it kind of throws you into the story with no real explanation. But I ended up really enjoying it, it was a lot of fun.
Wytches #1 by Scott Snyder (5/5)
This actually gave me nightmares after. Probably shouldn't of read it right before bed. But it was very interesting and strange and creepy I'm definitely interested to read more. (issues are monthly, I believe).
Alcatraz and the Scriveners Bones (Alcatraz #2) by Brandon Sanderson (5/5)
No surprise I loved this book - if you don't know I'd suggest checking into the first one, but only if you've read Sanderson before and/or know and enjoy his strange sense of humor (which I love).
Wayward #1, #2 by Jim Zub (4/5)
Really interesting, I'm intrigued to carry on. The colors are a lot of fun in this, bright. And I really like the part at the back that's an essay on something important/related to the story, it might be my favorite part (because I'm a weirdo).
The Wicked and the Divine #1 by Kieron Gillen (5/5)
Holy. Shit. I love it. I don't know why I was kind of instantly sold, but I am. The art and coloring is gorgeous and I love this idea and these characters. I highly recommend this (and I think the bind up of the first five or so issues just came out!)
And I think I'm going to end this part here. I hope you enjoyed my thoughts on these books, I hope I kept them all short and sweet enough, but with actually also giving you my thoughts. Any questions - just let me know. And if you've read any of these books, graphic novels, single issue comics - then I'd love to hear your thoughts as well.
Girl on Tour (Kylie Ryans #2) by Caisey Quinn (2/5)
My only note that I wrote down, after finishing this, was 'eh.' Which is think is a good explanation for how I feel about these books. These don't involve any thought to read, and the main character makes me want to shake her, at times, she's so... much still a teenager and so childish and no one ever just talks to each other. Argh.
Imitation in Death (In Death #17) by J.D. Robb (5/5)
I really enjoyed this one - the copying of past serial killers is one of my favorite things (wow, that sounded creepy), and it was really interesting in this book. And, of course, I just over the characters to death.
Warbreaker (Warbreaker #1) by Brandon Sanderson (5/5)
I thought this was a standalone, at first, but I'm really glad he's going to expand on the story. Anyway - I really enjoyed this book. It was a lot different then what I expected, though his books always are, and while it was a little slow in the beginning, I kind of liked it that way. Really, really good.
The Think of the Doorstep by H.P Lovecraft (5/5)
Look, I read some Lovecraft! Technically, I think this was a short story, but it honestly creeped me out? I'm not sure why, books don't normally creep me out or scare me, but this one just... made me shiver a little. I'm slogging through a book with a bunch of his short stories right now - they're good, his language is just strangely dense, at least to me, and also I'd rather not read it before bed and dream of evil sea gods. Highly recommend checking out his stuff, though, what I've read so far is very good.
The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson (4/5)
This was also different then expected, I didn't know it wasn't told from Jekyll's point of view - but I actually really enjoyed it that way. It was strange and very interesting. I'm glad I gave Stevenson another try, after not being able to finish Treasure Island. Though, I've always loved the Jekyll/Hyde stuff that came off this (this ended in me marathoning the BBC show Jekyll, actually. Surprisingly held up after so many years).
The Heroes of Olympus #1-4 by Rick Riordan (5/5)
I'm seperating out the last book for some reason - all of these were rereads, first of all. But I also don't want to spoil any of this series - if you liked Percy Jackson and the Olympians, then I'd definitely give this one a try, knowing it isn't Percy central, though they do show up. I really enjoyed this series, Riordan's books are fun and strange at points, and I like the humor.
The Demigod Files by Rick Riordan (5/5)
Short stories. I, surprisingly, hadn't read this before even though I bought it at some point intending to do so. It was cute, short and sweet, and I'm glad I read it before rereading House of Hades.
Percy Jackson: The Ultimate Guide by Riordan (3/5)
It was... cute? It was informative, but of information I already new. Maybe a good way to refresh yourself of what happened, but I kind of expected some new stuff, even a little, and I didn't find a scrap
The Blood of Olympus (Heroes of Olympus #5) by Rick Riordan (5/5)
I adored this book - I know people had some problems with Percy and Annabeth kind of being pushed to background characters (among other problems that I'm not going to get into because spoilers), and that did annoy me a bit. But I was too over the moon about chapters from Nico's perspective. That's a main thing I wanted from this book and I got it, and am mildly obsessed with the Nico/Will thing, well I was right after reading this. I do kind of wish, even though I know it's a middle grade book, Riordan touched more heavily on how probably fucked up, excuse the language, all of these kids are. I'm thinking Percy, Annabeth, and Nico might need some therapy, and those two are definitely going to have extreme separation anxiety. Not to mention all the PTSD (and nightmares, and dreams).
The Arrival by Shaun Tan (5/5)
This was more a work of art then a graphic novel. It was truly gorgeous and incredible. There are no words in this graphic novel and I highly suggest checking it out.
East of West, Vols 1, 2, &3 by Jonathan Hickman, Nick Dragotta (5/5)
I didn't know what to expect picking up volume 1 - all I knew was strange possible future, apocalypse, four horsemen, a wild west-ish vibe. Holy shit, guys, this is a fantastic comic series. I loved these three and I am itching to get my hands on volume 4. Apparently this wraps up 'year one' of the series, and I don't know when they're going to keep going, if they are (I think they are, nothing is decided here, guys, give me more).
Chew, Volume 1 by John Layman
I... wasn't sure what to expect, but I ended up loving this. The different art style, the gore, the whole 'mythology,' the characters - I loved all of it and it was all slightly ridiculous. Fantastic - the whole black market chicken then is hilarious.
Through the Woods by Emily Carroll (4/5)
Lovely, beautiful art work (seriously it's stunning). A strange series of comic short stories, and a little sad.
In Real Live by Cory Doctorow, Jen Wang (4/5)
The illustrations in this, the colors, were lovely. It reminded me, originally, of Sword Art Online - the being inside a video game things. But then I realized they weren't, it was just how they were showing it. Still - I really enjoyed it, a lot of fun.
Captain Marvel, Volume 1: Higher, Further, Faster, More by Kelly Sue DeConnick (4/5)
I enjoyed this more then I expected - it kind of throws you into the story with no real explanation. But I ended up really enjoying it, it was a lot of fun.
Wytches #1 by Scott Snyder (5/5)
This actually gave me nightmares after. Probably shouldn't of read it right before bed. But it was very interesting and strange and creepy I'm definitely interested to read more. (issues are monthly, I believe).
Alcatraz and the Scriveners Bones (Alcatraz #2) by Brandon Sanderson (5/5)
No surprise I loved this book - if you don't know I'd suggest checking into the first one, but only if you've read Sanderson before and/or know and enjoy his strange sense of humor (which I love).
Wayward #1, #2 by Jim Zub (4/5)
Really interesting, I'm intrigued to carry on. The colors are a lot of fun in this, bright. And I really like the part at the back that's an essay on something important/related to the story, it might be my favorite part (because I'm a weirdo).
The Wicked and the Divine #1 by Kieron Gillen (5/5)
Holy. Shit. I love it. I don't know why I was kind of instantly sold, but I am. The art and coloring is gorgeous and I love this idea and these characters. I highly recommend this (and I think the bind up of the first five or so issues just came out!)
And I think I'm going to end this part here. I hope you enjoyed my thoughts on these books, I hope I kept them all short and sweet enough, but with actually also giving you my thoughts. Any questions - just let me know. And if you've read any of these books, graphic novels, single issue comics - then I'd love to hear your thoughts as well.
Monday, December 8, 2014
2014: Book Reviews (15)
More mini reviews! About more books! Because I read so many books this year! That's literally all I'm going to say, I'm just going to jump into the books because there's a lot to go. This is going to be a long post, I think.
The Infernal Devices Manga (#1-3) by Cassie Clare and HyeKyung Baek
I really enjoyed these - I liked the art style, I loved all of them but Clockwork Princess is definitely my favorite, in both/any format. It's just so painful.
Sex Criminals, Vol 1 by Matt Fraction and Chip Zdarky (5/5)
This was a very interesting and kind of strange graphic novel - and I completely loved it. I loved the art/coloring for the scenes where everything, but the characters, was frozen, but also kind of in general. Fun series, can't wait for volume 2.
The Sea of Monsters: Graphic Novel (4/5)
This was kind of - eh. I really liked the art, but it felt like it left out / was missing too much, I just think it should have longer.
Gil's All Fright Diner by A. Lee Martinez (3/5)
I just really enjoyed this book? It was a fun ride - it was just that, though. It's like a weird pulp fiction, urban fantasy... horror type thing. It wasn't amazing, but it was a lot of fun to read.
Helen and Troy's Epic Road Quest by A. Lee Martinez (4/5)
Strangely really fun. And just strange in general. It has the same kind of feel to it, but it's more polished (his newest novel, I believe, while I think Gil's was his first). I did a full review of this one.
On Dublin Street (On Dublin Street #1) by Samantha Young (4/5)
I really hated this love interest at the beginning (the guy), but I ended up warming up to him and really enjoying this book over all. It's just fun and has some interesting parts to do, some therapist scenes I thought were good/interesting.
Wife by Wednesday (Weekday Brides #1) by Catherine Bybee (3/5)
Uhh... this was one of those books I'm not sure why I read it? I only gave it two stars for some reason, but I continued with the whole series and surprisingly enjoyed it. It was a weird/strange troupe that I think is used in fan fiction, but this book was just a lot of fun. And sometimes that's all I want from a book - so I should probably raise this rating to at least a 3/5 stars, I think I will.
Married by Monday (#2) by Catherine Bybee (3/5)
I also raised this rating. I'm not someone who uses the term guilty pleasure, because I don't believe in that idea of feeling guilty for reading something. But these would be those books. They're like junk food, addicting and fun and probably not strictly good for you/the best, but whatever give me the next one. (insert "another!" thor gif. You know the one)
Fiance by Friday (#3) by Catherin Bybee (3/5)
I marathoned these three books over a ridiculously short period of time. I'm not sure I'd recommend them - but they surprised me and were fun... and free if you have the Amazon Unlimited thing. Though, they're pretty cheap, anyway, only a few dollars.
Ariel: The Restored Edition by Sylvia Plath (5/5)
And on the completely other end of everything - some Plath. I was never really yes I need to read Plath, but then something happened and I realized I just wanted to read something of hers. I'd bought The Bell Jar recently, but I wanted to try her poems first, to see if I liked them. I loved them - my favorites probably being Lady Lazurus and Tulips, though I don't think I didn't really enjoy any of them.
The Importance of Being Ernest by Oscar Wilde (4/5)
This took me a surprising amount of time to read for it being, technically, less then a hundred pages. I enjoyed it, but the language was a bit dense.
The Final Empire, The Well of Ascension, The Hero of Ages (Mistborn #1-3) by Brandon Sanderson
I marathoned these books over a surprisingly short period of days, I feel like I keep saying that, and gave them all 5/5 stars. I want to write a full series review for this first Mistborn trilogy, but I don't know if I can make it coherent enough to post. It would just be like: oh my god, read these books. Don't read the last 100 pages of any of them in public because oh my god. ohmygod. I highly recommend this series, and Sanderson, and this trilogy was amazing.
The Merciless by Danielle Vega (4/5)
A bit of gore, a bit of fun. I was just kind of eh about it until the last, like, sentence. (Full review here)
Tinder by Sally Garner (3/5)
Eh. I was really enjoying it at first, but it dragged on much too long. It's a gorgeous book, though, I'd highly suggest just picking it up to look at it and how pretty it is. And I thought it was okay, over all, just by the end of it, I just wanted it to be over, which isn't a good sign for a book. I might of tried to read it too quickly, but I was just in the mood to read something, not wait.
Alcatraz and the Evil Librarians (Alcatraz #1) by Brandon Sanderson (5/5)
This is a middle grade series and I didn't know what to expect out of middle grade Sanderson - but holy shit, guys, this book is fantastic and hilarious. However, probably not for most people. If you are familiar and enjoy Sanderson's humor, then this book/series is for you (go forth, read them). I think this one is fantastic, I've only read #1 and #2 as of writing this, but I've really enjoyed them both.
The Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan (5/5)
I reread this whole series in a very short time period. I think this was my third time reading the series, I'm pretty sure I reread them immediately after finish The Last Olympian. I marathoned them all three times. I really enjoy these books, love them to pieces, but it'd been years since I'd read them so I wanted to reread them so everything was fresh and ready for The Blood of Olympus. Obviously, I highly recommend this series. I don't think I'll do a full series review, since I'm sure everyone had heard of it and probably knows if they want to read it or not.
Revolver by Marcus Sedgwick (4/5)
I really enjoyed this book. It was a super interesting, quick read, that was also pretty intense at parts. It was also my first books by this author and I'm looking forward to more, especially because all of his books sound really interesting.
Single by Saturday (Weekday Brides #4) & Taken by Tuesday (#5) by Catherine Bybee (3/5)
This wraps up all the books that are out in this series, though obviously there's going to be seven (I think) because days of the week. I might end up reread them next year when they're all out and just marathoning all seven of them because I'm just not sure I'm going to remember anything by then. And it's not really needed to remember eveything - but I'm sure there will be a readathon and it sounds fun to me.
Once again - this series is just fun, I'm not sure I'd recommend it, but if you like slightly ridiculous, trope filled romance novels then have I have got a super quick reads series for you. (Which I really enjoy, but I've got pet peeves I try to avoid).
Opal Fire (Stacy Justice #1) by Barbara Annino (2/5)
I really wish I had DNFed this book when I was 20% in and not feeling it, but for some reason I kept going. I need to start letting myself DNF things. I don't know, I have no real feelings about this book. It wasn't horrible, but I just didn't care?
Not Quite Dating (Not Quite #1) by Catherine Bybee (3/5)
Do you see a trend? Of reading this authors books. I'm not even sure how it keeps happening, they're just addicting and I can't escape. Anyway - this was fun and a fluffy romance book. Also I've learned something about myself, I find the cowboy thing (in books) strangely charming. It might be the use of the word darlin', I am not sure if I should be embarrassed by this or not?
Not Quite Mine (Not Quite #2) by Catherine Bybee (3/5)
I liked this one better then the first and a surprising amount, for some reason. There's a baby, there's romance cuteness, and a lot of confusion. It's still trope-y, but I apparently don't mind tropes. (I've kind of always known this about myself, as long as they're done pretty well and not eye roll inducing/bad).
Purity in Death (In Death #15) & Portrait in Death (#16) by J.D. Robb (5/5)
Not much can be said because spoilers, but I really am loving this series. Also - Eve's reaction to what Mavis tells her in Purity was hilarious and fantastic. I just love this series, I don't know why, I just do.
And I think I'm going to stop myself there, before this post gets too long, though it probably is already too long. Have you read any of these books? What did you think? Or are you planning on reading any of them?
The Infernal Devices Manga (#1-3) by Cassie Clare and HyeKyung Baek
I really enjoyed these - I liked the art style, I loved all of them but Clockwork Princess is definitely my favorite, in both/any format. It's just so painful.
Sex Criminals, Vol 1 by Matt Fraction and Chip Zdarky (5/5)
This was a very interesting and kind of strange graphic novel - and I completely loved it. I loved the art/coloring for the scenes where everything, but the characters, was frozen, but also kind of in general. Fun series, can't wait for volume 2.
The Sea of Monsters: Graphic Novel (4/5)
This was kind of - eh. I really liked the art, but it felt like it left out / was missing too much, I just think it should have longer.
Gil's All Fright Diner by A. Lee Martinez (3/5)
I just really enjoyed this book? It was a fun ride - it was just that, though. It's like a weird pulp fiction, urban fantasy... horror type thing. It wasn't amazing, but it was a lot of fun to read.
Helen and Troy's Epic Road Quest by A. Lee Martinez (4/5)
Strangely really fun. And just strange in general. It has the same kind of feel to it, but it's more polished (his newest novel, I believe, while I think Gil's was his first). I did a full review of this one.
On Dublin Street (On Dublin Street #1) by Samantha Young (4/5)
I really hated this love interest at the beginning (the guy), but I ended up warming up to him and really enjoying this book over all. It's just fun and has some interesting parts to do, some therapist scenes I thought were good/interesting.
Wife by Wednesday (Weekday Brides #1) by Catherine Bybee (3/5)
Uhh... this was one of those books I'm not sure why I read it? I only gave it two stars for some reason, but I continued with the whole series and surprisingly enjoyed it. It was a weird/strange troupe that I think is used in fan fiction, but this book was just a lot of fun. And sometimes that's all I want from a book - so I should probably raise this rating to at least a 3/5 stars, I think I will.
Married by Monday (#2) by Catherine Bybee (3/5)
I also raised this rating. I'm not someone who uses the term guilty pleasure, because I don't believe in that idea of feeling guilty for reading something. But these would be those books. They're like junk food, addicting and fun and probably not strictly good for you/the best, but whatever give me the next one. (insert "another!" thor gif. You know the one)
Fiance by Friday (#3) by Catherin Bybee (3/5)
I marathoned these three books over a ridiculously short period of time. I'm not sure I'd recommend them - but they surprised me and were fun... and free if you have the Amazon Unlimited thing. Though, they're pretty cheap, anyway, only a few dollars.
Ariel: The Restored Edition by Sylvia Plath (5/5)
And on the completely other end of everything - some Plath. I was never really yes I need to read Plath, but then something happened and I realized I just wanted to read something of hers. I'd bought The Bell Jar recently, but I wanted to try her poems first, to see if I liked them. I loved them - my favorites probably being Lady Lazurus and Tulips, though I don't think I didn't really enjoy any of them.
The Importance of Being Ernest by Oscar Wilde (4/5)
This took me a surprising amount of time to read for it being, technically, less then a hundred pages. I enjoyed it, but the language was a bit dense.
The Final Empire, The Well of Ascension, The Hero of Ages (Mistborn #1-3) by Brandon Sanderson
I marathoned these books over a surprisingly short period of days, I feel like I keep saying that, and gave them all 5/5 stars. I want to write a full series review for this first Mistborn trilogy, but I don't know if I can make it coherent enough to post. It would just be like: oh my god, read these books. Don't read the last 100 pages of any of them in public because oh my god. ohmygod. I highly recommend this series, and Sanderson, and this trilogy was amazing.
The Merciless by Danielle Vega (4/5)
A bit of gore, a bit of fun. I was just kind of eh about it until the last, like, sentence. (Full review here)
Tinder by Sally Garner (3/5)
Eh. I was really enjoying it at first, but it dragged on much too long. It's a gorgeous book, though, I'd highly suggest just picking it up to look at it and how pretty it is. And I thought it was okay, over all, just by the end of it, I just wanted it to be over, which isn't a good sign for a book. I might of tried to read it too quickly, but I was just in the mood to read something, not wait.
Alcatraz and the Evil Librarians (Alcatraz #1) by Brandon Sanderson (5/5)
This is a middle grade series and I didn't know what to expect out of middle grade Sanderson - but holy shit, guys, this book is fantastic and hilarious. However, probably not for most people. If you are familiar and enjoy Sanderson's humor, then this book/series is for you (go forth, read them). I think this one is fantastic, I've only read #1 and #2 as of writing this, but I've really enjoyed them both.
The Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan (5/5)
I reread this whole series in a very short time period. I think this was my third time reading the series, I'm pretty sure I reread them immediately after finish The Last Olympian. I marathoned them all three times. I really enjoy these books, love them to pieces, but it'd been years since I'd read them so I wanted to reread them so everything was fresh and ready for The Blood of Olympus. Obviously, I highly recommend this series. I don't think I'll do a full series review, since I'm sure everyone had heard of it and probably knows if they want to read it or not.
Revolver by Marcus Sedgwick (4/5)
I really enjoyed this book. It was a super interesting, quick read, that was also pretty intense at parts. It was also my first books by this author and I'm looking forward to more, especially because all of his books sound really interesting.
Single by Saturday (Weekday Brides #4) & Taken by Tuesday (#5) by Catherine Bybee (3/5)
This wraps up all the books that are out in this series, though obviously there's going to be seven (I think) because days of the week. I might end up reread them next year when they're all out and just marathoning all seven of them because I'm just not sure I'm going to remember anything by then. And it's not really needed to remember eveything - but I'm sure there will be a readathon and it sounds fun to me.
Once again - this series is just fun, I'm not sure I'd recommend it, but if you like slightly ridiculous, trope filled romance novels then have I have got a super quick reads series for you. (Which I really enjoy, but I've got pet peeves I try to avoid).
Opal Fire (Stacy Justice #1) by Barbara Annino (2/5)
I really wish I had DNFed this book when I was 20% in and not feeling it, but for some reason I kept going. I need to start letting myself DNF things. I don't know, I have no real feelings about this book. It wasn't horrible, but I just didn't care?
Not Quite Dating (Not Quite #1) by Catherine Bybee (3/5)
Do you see a trend? Of reading this authors books. I'm not even sure how it keeps happening, they're just addicting and I can't escape. Anyway - this was fun and a fluffy romance book. Also I've learned something about myself, I find the cowboy thing (in books) strangely charming. It might be the use of the word darlin', I am not sure if I should be embarrassed by this or not?
Not Quite Mine (Not Quite #2) by Catherine Bybee (3/5)
I liked this one better then the first and a surprising amount, for some reason. There's a baby, there's romance cuteness, and a lot of confusion. It's still trope-y, but I apparently don't mind tropes. (I've kind of always known this about myself, as long as they're done pretty well and not eye roll inducing/bad).
Purity in Death (In Death #15) & Portrait in Death (#16) by J.D. Robb (5/5)
Not much can be said because spoilers, but I really am loving this series. Also - Eve's reaction to what Mavis tells her in Purity was hilarious and fantastic. I just love this series, I don't know why, I just do.
And I think I'm going to stop myself there, before this post gets too long, though it probably is already too long. Have you read any of these books? What did you think? Or are you planning on reading any of them?
Friday, December 5, 2014
2014: Book Reviews (14)
Part fourteen, last part ended up being the series one, mostly TMI and ID. And this part is going to start with a book that I read about six months before it released, I got an ARC copy at LeakyCon, and devoured it surprisingly quickly (it pulled me out of a mixture of 'TMI series is over slump' and post travel slump, I always have a hard time getting back into reading after traveling, no matter how long or where).
The Darkest Part of the Forest by Holly Black (5/5)
I'm looking at my notes I wrote right after I finished it and the first thing I wrote was: "such beautifully strange perfection," which feels like a good description. I'm hoping to put a review up close to when this book comes out, hopefully I remember, I'd also like to reread it. It is beautiful and a lot of fun. I really like faeries, though, am possibly a bit of a sucker for them, so if you don't like them as much, you might not enjoy it as much. But I'd still suggest reading this - incredible, lovely.
Say Her Name by James Dawson (4/5)
I've always really liked Bloody Mary as an urban legend, so I was a bit suspicious of what this was going to entail. I ended up liking it - it was strange and weird, at points, and eye roll inducing at others. But overall I thought it had a good story, a good reason for Mary, and also a fantastic ending.
Anna and the French Kiss (Anna #1) by Stephanie Perkins (5/5)
I didn't expect to love this book - I've always been a little eh about the young adult contemporary I've read, but for some reason I just loved this. It was fun and strange and a little lovely. Not my favorite of the three, but I did love their story. And the setting, I've always wanted to go to Paris, and now I think I might bring this book along to go where they go in the book.
Mortal Danger (Immortal Game #1) by Ann Aquirre (5/5)
I had a few problems with this one (suspension of disbelief at the beginning) but when it started getting going more and I got more into the story - I just ended up really enjoying it. I don't know why, but I just got caught up in the story. I should probably of just given it 4/5 stars since I struggled with it at the beginning, but even when I was struggling, as soon as I got past page ten or so I flew through this book. (full review here)
Lola and the Boy Next Door (Anna #2) by Stephanie Perkins (5/5)
I think this was my favorite - I just love Lola and her clothes and wigs and personality. And I don't know why, but I had a lot of fun reading this one. Another place I've always wanted to go, not quite as unattainable as Paris, but still hasn't happened for some reason.
Unlocked: An Oral History of Haden's Syndrome by John Scalzi (4/5)
I haven't read Lock In yet, but I read this before Lock In even came out. And, obviously, really enjoyed it. It's short, only 68 pages, and just in the style of World War Z, but it's the actual official report of what happened, mostly, and I think it definitely adds something to the story, when a lot of the time prequel novellas can be hit or miss on goodness/importance to the story. Scalzi is a writer that I've learned this year that I adore.
The Name of the Wind (Kingkiller Chronicles #1) by Patrick Rothfuss (5/5)
This book took me forever to read, but only because of it's length and it's a bit dense. The writing is beautiful, though, and I was listening to the audiobook on and off (the narrator was fantastic, I've never gotten hooked into an audiobook like this one before). (full review here)
Isla and the Happily Ever after (Anna #3) by Stephanie Perkins (5/5)
I really enjoyed this book and I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. I know other people haven't or haven't as much as the other two, and it definitely is probably my least favorite of the three but I still really enjoyed it. These two were sweet together and a little ridiculous. And the end was perfect.
My Drunk Kitchen by Hannah Hart (5/5)
I'm going to keep this short and sweet so I don't just start spouting love for Hannah, which is why I haven't, and probably won't, write a full review of this. This book is good, it's fantastic, and it made me laugh at multiple part. If you don't know who Hannah Hart is well.... YouTube Channel.
The Darkest Part of the Forest by Holly Black (5/5)
I'm looking at my notes I wrote right after I finished it and the first thing I wrote was: "such beautifully strange perfection," which feels like a good description. I'm hoping to put a review up close to when this book comes out, hopefully I remember, I'd also like to reread it. It is beautiful and a lot of fun. I really like faeries, though, am possibly a bit of a sucker for them, so if you don't like them as much, you might not enjoy it as much. But I'd still suggest reading this - incredible, lovely.
Say Her Name by James Dawson (4/5)
I've always really liked Bloody Mary as an urban legend, so I was a bit suspicious of what this was going to entail. I ended up liking it - it was strange and weird, at points, and eye roll inducing at others. But overall I thought it had a good story, a good reason for Mary, and also a fantastic ending.
Anna and the French Kiss (Anna #1) by Stephanie Perkins (5/5)
I didn't expect to love this book - I've always been a little eh about the young adult contemporary I've read, but for some reason I just loved this. It was fun and strange and a little lovely. Not my favorite of the three, but I did love their story. And the setting, I've always wanted to go to Paris, and now I think I might bring this book along to go where they go in the book.
Mortal Danger (Immortal Game #1) by Ann Aquirre (5/5)
I had a few problems with this one (suspension of disbelief at the beginning) but when it started getting going more and I got more into the story - I just ended up really enjoying it. I don't know why, but I just got caught up in the story. I should probably of just given it 4/5 stars since I struggled with it at the beginning, but even when I was struggling, as soon as I got past page ten or so I flew through this book. (full review here)
Lola and the Boy Next Door (Anna #2) by Stephanie Perkins (5/5)
I think this was my favorite - I just love Lola and her clothes and wigs and personality. And I don't know why, but I had a lot of fun reading this one. Another place I've always wanted to go, not quite as unattainable as Paris, but still hasn't happened for some reason.
Unlocked: An Oral History of Haden's Syndrome by John Scalzi (4/5)
I haven't read Lock In yet, but I read this before Lock In even came out. And, obviously, really enjoyed it. It's short, only 68 pages, and just in the style of World War Z, but it's the actual official report of what happened, mostly, and I think it definitely adds something to the story, when a lot of the time prequel novellas can be hit or miss on goodness/importance to the story. Scalzi is a writer that I've learned this year that I adore.
The Name of the Wind (Kingkiller Chronicles #1) by Patrick Rothfuss (5/5)
This book took me forever to read, but only because of it's length and it's a bit dense. The writing is beautiful, though, and I was listening to the audiobook on and off (the narrator was fantastic, I've never gotten hooked into an audiobook like this one before). (full review here)
Isla and the Happily Ever after (Anna #3) by Stephanie Perkins (5/5)
I really enjoyed this book and I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. I know other people haven't or haven't as much as the other two, and it definitely is probably my least favorite of the three but I still really enjoyed it. These two were sweet together and a little ridiculous. And the end was perfect.
My Drunk Kitchen by Hannah Hart (5/5)
I'm going to keep this short and sweet so I don't just start spouting love for Hannah, which is why I haven't, and probably won't, write a full review of this. This book is good, it's fantastic, and it made me laugh at multiple part. If you don't know who Hannah Hart is well.... YouTube Channel.
Sunday, November 30, 2014
2014: Book Reviews (13)
Part thirteen! I, obviously, read a lot of books this year and can't believe how far I fell behind with these. I just kept forgetting about them and kept reading. But I've read a ton of books.
The Grisha Trilogy by Leigh Bardugo (4/5, 5/5, 4/5)
I really liked this series and did a full series review - and I'm not sure why I liked it so much. I just think I got drawn in and attached to the characters and that was the end of it (I'm a character person, and they were fun and great).
Zita the Spacegirl Series by Ben Hatke (4/5, 5/5, 5/5)
This was a fun middle grade graphic novel series that was a lot of fun and the characters were awesome and fun. And I really liked the illustrations and the covers. I'd highly suggest this if you like graphic novels and middle grade adventure - because this is both of those shoved together fantastically.
City of Glass (The Mortal Instruments #3) by Cassandra Clare (4/5)
This was a reread to me and I enjoyed it but it felt a little lacking in parts. Saying that - I read it in one sitting and almost cried, so there's that. I know some people just adore this series, have problems with it or the author - but I read the original three books in middle school, when they were first coming out, and so I might be a little too nostalgic to be objective. (Full series review)
Playing with Fire (Skulduggery Pleasant #2) by Derek Landy (5/5)
Second book in this series and I loved it probably just as much as the first one - the dialogue, setting, characters, plot. It was so much fun.
Clockwork Angel (Infernal Devices #1) by Cassandra Clare (4/5)
For some reason - I like this series better. This one definitely isn't my favorite of this series and it was a reread, but I enjoy the setting and characters. I adore these characters, just all of them. (particularly our three, of course). (series review)
Clockwork Prince (Infernal Devices #2) by Cassie Clare (5/5)
I loved this one more then I expected - I didn't expect to like this series as much, and this one was just really good, especially considering it was a second in a series. I'm also not sure I can be non-biased with this one, they're just fun (I'm pretty sure this year, all her books I read, I finished them all in one sitting). (series review)
Clockwork Princess (Infernal Devices #3) by Cassie Clare (5/5)
This book. It hurt and I loved it - I think my favorite relationship in this whole series is the one between Will and Jem and it's so painful and kind of stupidly angsty and I kind of loved that? This one hurts. And it's so good. And you should definitely read this one before the end of The Mortal Intrusments. (series review)
City of Fallen Angels (TMI #4) by Cassie Clare (4/5)
Reread. And I honestly remembered almost less then I did of City of Glass, even though I obviously had read this one more recently. And sometimes these teenagers makes me want to shake them, but I also really enjoyed this book, especially having finished The Infernal Devices before this one. There was giggling, I have no regrets. (series review)
City of Lost Souls (TMI #5) by Cassie Clare (5/5)
New stuff! I hadn't read before! I didn't expect this, I don't know why I just didn't. And I think the reason I loved this one so much was because of how busy I was flailing over ID stuff, like I said, no regrets. But I did enjoy what was going on with kind of everyone - they're all ridiculous and I apparently just gave in embraced this? (series review)
City of Heavenly Fire (TMI #6) by Cassie Clare (5/5)
I finished this book the morning we were getting on a plane to fly to Orlando for LeakyCon (I woke up early, and I have just enough time to finish it). And I'm obviously not going to spoil anything here - but I really, really enjoyed it. It was still ridiculous at points, but also fun (junk food, addictive). I really liked this series and I wasn't going to pick up the next one but if certain characters are going to be in it, I will pick it up for them. (series review)
The Grisha Trilogy by Leigh Bardugo (4/5, 5/5, 4/5)
I really liked this series and did a full series review - and I'm not sure why I liked it so much. I just think I got drawn in and attached to the characters and that was the end of it (I'm a character person, and they were fun and great).
Zita the Spacegirl Series by Ben Hatke (4/5, 5/5, 5/5)
This was a fun middle grade graphic novel series that was a lot of fun and the characters were awesome and fun. And I really liked the illustrations and the covers. I'd highly suggest this if you like graphic novels and middle grade adventure - because this is both of those shoved together fantastically.
City of Glass (The Mortal Instruments #3) by Cassandra Clare (4/5)
This was a reread to me and I enjoyed it but it felt a little lacking in parts. Saying that - I read it in one sitting and almost cried, so there's that. I know some people just adore this series, have problems with it or the author - but I read the original three books in middle school, when they were first coming out, and so I might be a little too nostalgic to be objective. (Full series review)
Playing with Fire (Skulduggery Pleasant #2) by Derek Landy (5/5)
Second book in this series and I loved it probably just as much as the first one - the dialogue, setting, characters, plot. It was so much fun.
Clockwork Angel (Infernal Devices #1) by Cassandra Clare (4/5)
For some reason - I like this series better. This one definitely isn't my favorite of this series and it was a reread, but I enjoy the setting and characters. I adore these characters, just all of them. (particularly our three, of course). (series review)
Clockwork Prince (Infernal Devices #2) by Cassie Clare (5/5)
I loved this one more then I expected - I didn't expect to like this series as much, and this one was just really good, especially considering it was a second in a series. I'm also not sure I can be non-biased with this one, they're just fun (I'm pretty sure this year, all her books I read, I finished them all in one sitting). (series review)
Clockwork Princess (Infernal Devices #3) by Cassie Clare (5/5)
This book. It hurt and I loved it - I think my favorite relationship in this whole series is the one between Will and Jem and it's so painful and kind of stupidly angsty and I kind of loved that? This one hurts. And it's so good. And you should definitely read this one before the end of The Mortal Intrusments. (series review)
City of Fallen Angels (TMI #4) by Cassie Clare (4/5)
Reread. And I honestly remembered almost less then I did of City of Glass, even though I obviously had read this one more recently. And sometimes these teenagers makes me want to shake them, but I also really enjoyed this book, especially having finished The Infernal Devices before this one. There was giggling, I have no regrets. (series review)
City of Lost Souls (TMI #5) by Cassie Clare (5/5)
New stuff! I hadn't read before! I didn't expect this, I don't know why I just didn't. And I think the reason I loved this one so much was because of how busy I was flailing over ID stuff, like I said, no regrets. But I did enjoy what was going on with kind of everyone - they're all ridiculous and I apparently just gave in embraced this? (series review)
City of Heavenly Fire (TMI #6) by Cassie Clare (5/5)
I finished this book the morning we were getting on a plane to fly to Orlando for LeakyCon (I woke up early, and I have just enough time to finish it). And I'm obviously not going to spoil anything here - but I really, really enjoyed it. It was still ridiculous at points, but also fun (junk food, addictive). I really liked this series and I wasn't going to pick up the next one but if certain characters are going to be in it, I will pick it up for them. (series review)
Thursday, November 27, 2014
2014: Book Reviews (12)
I haven't done one of these since September and am now hopelessly behind. Well, not hopelessly, I hope to get most of the remaining up before the end of the year (maybe just not the last one or two, depending on how much I'm reading in December, which I'm hoping will be a lot).
I left off, in part eleven, on This is What Happy Looks Like - which I read in June, so I was behind them. So let's get right into it, then.
Never Stop Shutting Up by Mike Falzone (5/5)
Mike Falzone is a musician and YouTuber (a comedic one), and he's hilarious and a lot of things he says make you go "wow, he has a point there." I had a lot of fun reading this book, it made my six+ hour flight back from LA significantly less painful.
Take a Bow by Elizabeth Eulberg (3/5)
Cute, interesting, fun. A bit too much of the stereotypical drama and the writing was lacking a little - but it was still fun to read.
Girl with Guitar (Kylie Ryans #1) by Caisey Quinn (3/5)
I think I'm remembering correctly - this was one of those romance books that I read in one sitting when I couldn't sleep at 4/5am (I read a lot of romance books at this time, I don't know why, they're just so easy to read), and this one was short. And surprisingly fun, but I'm not sure I'd recommend it unless you want something that's like 200 pages and doesn't really have too much depth (any depth, from what I remember).
Losing It (Losing It #1) by Cora Carmack (3/5)
Okay, cute. But also a ton of second hand embarassement and why are you doing that. Also pretty sure I read this in the same situation - early morning, couldn't get back to sleep, this book is 200 pages. Eh.
Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Bosh (5/5)
This book is freaking fantastic. You just need to read it - it's amazing and so good.
In the Shadows by Kiersten White, and Jim Di Bartolo (5/5)
I was surprised by this book, I don't know what I expected, but it wasn't this and I was very pleasantly surprised. And i really loved it, I've heard some mixed things, but I don't know if it was right book, right time - but I really enjoyed it, it was fun, the fantasy elements were fun and the illustrations were gorgeous.
I Think I am in Friend Love With You by Yumi Sakugawa
This was short and sweet and so freaking cute and good.
Boxers and Saints (Boxers and Saints #1 ) by Gene Luen Yang (5/5)
These are both fantastic and amazing. I've found I love this authors books, I love the magical realism elements. I'd definitely suggest giving this a try (and possibly crying, they're not happy, feel good books).
The Beginning of Everything by Robyn Schneider (5/5)
I don't know why it took me so long to read this. I knew I was going to love it, I was just putting it off (I have an arc of this book, it's embarrassing). Anyway - I loved this book, so much. Highly recommended. And, also I will always think of it as Severed Heads, Broken Hearts.
Scepter of the Ancients (Skulduggery Pleasant #1) by Derek Landy (5/5)
I really, really enjoyed this book. It was fun and a little ridiculous and I loved it. That's it - go read it, there's a skeleton detective and a kick-ass girl.
And I think that's all I'm going to do for this one - have you read any of these books? Did you enjoy them? Do you want to read them / have them on your TBR?
I left off, in part eleven, on This is What Happy Looks Like - which I read in June, so I was behind them. So let's get right into it, then.
Never Stop Shutting Up by Mike Falzone (5/5)
Mike Falzone is a musician and YouTuber (a comedic one), and he's hilarious and a lot of things he says make you go "wow, he has a point there." I had a lot of fun reading this book, it made my six+ hour flight back from LA significantly less painful.
Take a Bow by Elizabeth Eulberg (3/5)
Cute, interesting, fun. A bit too much of the stereotypical drama and the writing was lacking a little - but it was still fun to read.
Girl with Guitar (Kylie Ryans #1) by Caisey Quinn (3/5)
I think I'm remembering correctly - this was one of those romance books that I read in one sitting when I couldn't sleep at 4/5am (I read a lot of romance books at this time, I don't know why, they're just so easy to read), and this one was short. And surprisingly fun, but I'm not sure I'd recommend it unless you want something that's like 200 pages and doesn't really have too much depth (any depth, from what I remember).
Losing It (Losing It #1) by Cora Carmack (3/5)
Okay, cute. But also a ton of second hand embarassement and why are you doing that. Also pretty sure I read this in the same situation - early morning, couldn't get back to sleep, this book is 200 pages. Eh.
Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Bosh (5/5)
This book is freaking fantastic. You just need to read it - it's amazing and so good.
In the Shadows by Kiersten White, and Jim Di Bartolo (5/5)
I was surprised by this book, I don't know what I expected, but it wasn't this and I was very pleasantly surprised. And i really loved it, I've heard some mixed things, but I don't know if it was right book, right time - but I really enjoyed it, it was fun, the fantasy elements were fun and the illustrations were gorgeous.
I Think I am in Friend Love With You by Yumi Sakugawa
This was short and sweet and so freaking cute and good.
Boxers and Saints (Boxers and Saints #1 ) by Gene Luen Yang (5/5)
These are both fantastic and amazing. I've found I love this authors books, I love the magical realism elements. I'd definitely suggest giving this a try (and possibly crying, they're not happy, feel good books).
The Beginning of Everything by Robyn Schneider (5/5)
I don't know why it took me so long to read this. I knew I was going to love it, I was just putting it off (I have an arc of this book, it's embarrassing). Anyway - I loved this book, so much. Highly recommended. And, also I will always think of it as Severed Heads, Broken Hearts.
Scepter of the Ancients (Skulduggery Pleasant #1) by Derek Landy (5/5)
I really, really enjoyed this book. It was fun and a little ridiculous and I loved it. That's it - go read it, there's a skeleton detective and a kick-ass girl.
And I think that's all I'm going to do for this one - have you read any of these books? Did you enjoy them? Do you want to read them / have them on your TBR?
Wednesday, September 10, 2014
2014: Book Reviews (11)
Part eleven - I'm still behind, I was almost caught up and then I didn't post 10 or write this and fell way, way behind again. Maybe I can catch up this month... (wishful thinking never actually hurt anyone, right?) Anyway - this is a series I do where I write a few sentences, or even less, about every book I've read this month (or, if I put up a full review, I link to that with a few words). I don't review everything I read, I only fully review a few things, so I wanted to start doing this somehow.
The Inventor's Secret (The Inventor's Secret #1) by Andrea Cremer (4/5)
I really enjoyed this book. I've tried about five times to write a full review of this one, but I can only ever write a few lines. This book is just a ton of fun - it's very light, I rolled my eyes a time or two, but I also just kind of really loved it, even though it was slightly cheesy or whatever at points. I'm a sucker for the steampunk/alt history thing, I guess.
The Fear Trials (The Murder Complex #0.5) by Lindsey Cummings (3/5)
This is a prequel novella to The Murder Complex and - I guess I kind of expected more. And I don't know what I mean by more, but this novella felt like it was missing something and I didn't enjoy it as much as I hoped. I still haven't read The Murder Complex - we'll see.
Steampunk Holmes: Legacy of the Nautilus by P.C. Martin (3/5)
This was a reward for a Kickstarter that I got in the mail years ago, it's been a while, but I finally got around to reading it. It was a lot of fun and very reminiscent of a classic Sherlock Holmes story without feeling like it was outright coping it. And it has illustrations, it's steampunk, Mycroft is a women - I mean it's a bit awesome.
Sea of Shadow (Age of Legends #1) by Kelly Armstrong (5/5)
I wrote up a full review here - but, to sum it up, I really enjoyed this book: the plot, the characters, the writing. I'm excited to be able to pick up more of Kelly's books, and for the rest of this series.
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline (5/5)
This is the second time I've reread this book. Obviously I completely adore this book - all of the gaming stuff makes me happy and the '80's references are plentiful, awesome, and a tad ridiculous. The characters, the world, the plot - I mean, can I live in the OASIS? Check it out, if you haven't!
Burn for Burn (Burn for Burn #1) by Siobhan Vivan, Jenny Han (3/5)
I had - some problems with this book. I haven't reviewed it because most of my problems would be considered "spoiler," but theres one scene that I had a lot of problems with how one of the girls reacted - as in she kind of barely did? It was mostly just - light, fun, but the more I think about it, the more problems I find. I'm going to continue on to, at least, book two (because I got it for $2), and I guess we'll see from there.
Open Road Summer by Emery Lord (5/5)
I have a full review here! Basically, though, this book is fantastic. It's light and fun but not just light and fun. And it focuses a lot on the two girls, who are best friends, and their friendship - maybe even slightly more then the love interest, though that is obviously a major thing as well. I just haven't read a lot of contemporary where the girls friendships are valued as so important, which annoys me because they are.
Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn, David Levithan (3/5)
It was - fun, but I didn't enjoy it as much as I thought as I've loved all of David's book, haven't read anything of Rachel's besides this. I guess I expected more and, while this was mostly entertaining, I skimmed some because I just didn't care - about the characters or what would happen next.
Rock On by Denise Vega (4/5)
This was - a little eye roll inducing, but mostly kind of just a lot of fun and cute. I'd recommend it to people who like contemporaries about bands, high school bands, and brothers. (Also - the whole rockstar syndrome thing made me laugh, mostly because of the how true it is).
This is What Happy Looks Like by Jennifer E. Smith (4/5)
Okay - so this book was a little ridiculous, but it was so much fun that I didn't care. I'm a huge sucker for the normal person dating a famous person troupe (but I always want to see more that they don't show - though this one showed more then I expected). I'd recommend this, if one keeps in mind that it's a little ridiculous, but a ton of fun and perfect for summer.
And there we go - ten more books down. Have you read any of these books? What did you think? What's your favorite book you've read so far this week/month?
The Inventor's Secret (The Inventor's Secret #1) by Andrea Cremer (4/5)
I really enjoyed this book. I've tried about five times to write a full review of this one, but I can only ever write a few lines. This book is just a ton of fun - it's very light, I rolled my eyes a time or two, but I also just kind of really loved it, even though it was slightly cheesy or whatever at points. I'm a sucker for the steampunk/alt history thing, I guess.
The Fear Trials (The Murder Complex #0.5) by Lindsey Cummings (3/5)
This is a prequel novella to The Murder Complex and - I guess I kind of expected more. And I don't know what I mean by more, but this novella felt like it was missing something and I didn't enjoy it as much as I hoped. I still haven't read The Murder Complex - we'll see.
Steampunk Holmes: Legacy of the Nautilus by P.C. Martin (3/5)
This was a reward for a Kickstarter that I got in the mail years ago, it's been a while, but I finally got around to reading it. It was a lot of fun and very reminiscent of a classic Sherlock Holmes story without feeling like it was outright coping it. And it has illustrations, it's steampunk, Mycroft is a women - I mean it's a bit awesome.
Sea of Shadow (Age of Legends #1) by Kelly Armstrong (5/5)
I wrote up a full review here - but, to sum it up, I really enjoyed this book: the plot, the characters, the writing. I'm excited to be able to pick up more of Kelly's books, and for the rest of this series.
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline (5/5)
This is the second time I've reread this book. Obviously I completely adore this book - all of the gaming stuff makes me happy and the '80's references are plentiful, awesome, and a tad ridiculous. The characters, the world, the plot - I mean, can I live in the OASIS? Check it out, if you haven't!
Burn for Burn (Burn for Burn #1) by Siobhan Vivan, Jenny Han (3/5)
I had - some problems with this book. I haven't reviewed it because most of my problems would be considered "spoiler," but theres one scene that I had a lot of problems with how one of the girls reacted - as in she kind of barely did? It was mostly just - light, fun, but the more I think about it, the more problems I find. I'm going to continue on to, at least, book two (because I got it for $2), and I guess we'll see from there.
Open Road Summer by Emery Lord (5/5)
I have a full review here! Basically, though, this book is fantastic. It's light and fun but not just light and fun. And it focuses a lot on the two girls, who are best friends, and their friendship - maybe even slightly more then the love interest, though that is obviously a major thing as well. I just haven't read a lot of contemporary where the girls friendships are valued as so important, which annoys me because they are.
Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn, David Levithan (3/5)
It was - fun, but I didn't enjoy it as much as I thought as I've loved all of David's book, haven't read anything of Rachel's besides this. I guess I expected more and, while this was mostly entertaining, I skimmed some because I just didn't care - about the characters or what would happen next.
Rock On by Denise Vega (4/5)
This was - a little eye roll inducing, but mostly kind of just a lot of fun and cute. I'd recommend it to people who like contemporaries about bands, high school bands, and brothers. (Also - the whole rockstar syndrome thing made me laugh, mostly because of the how true it is).
This is What Happy Looks Like by Jennifer E. Smith (4/5)
Okay - so this book was a little ridiculous, but it was so much fun that I didn't care. I'm a huge sucker for the normal person dating a famous person troupe (but I always want to see more that they don't show - though this one showed more then I expected). I'd recommend this, if one keeps in mind that it's a little ridiculous, but a ton of fun and perfect for summer.
And there we go - ten more books down. Have you read any of these books? What did you think? What's your favorite book you've read so far this week/month?
Thursday, September 4, 2014
2014: Book Reviews (10)
Another part of this lovely adventure, it's been an insane reading year for me and I never expected this series to go as far as it seems to be going. To look at past ones, full reviews, or all the books I've read this year - 2014 reading challenge post.
Maus Vol 1 + 2 by Art Spiegelman (both - 5/5)
I loved these two graphic novels. They felt very real and very raw, and I really liked the way he used the animals thing. It wasn't overdone and it wasn't jarring at any point.
Locke and Key: Vols 1, 2, + 3 by Joe Hill, Gabriel Rodriguez (all - 5/5)
These first three in the series were fantastic. I love the story and the characters, and the third is probably the one that's the darkest, but they're all pretty dark and intense. And I loved every minute and cannot wait to get my hands on more, highly recommended.
Once Dead, Twice Shy (Madison Avery #1) by Kim Harrison (4/5)
This was good, fun, and quick. And I have a full review here.
Elusive Memories (The Hunted #1) by Amanda Shofner (5/5)
Really liked this, it was interesting from the start and I really liked the characters. And am super looking forward to the next one!
What In God's Name by Simon Rich (5/5)
I don't know what I expected from this book, but it wasn't what I got. And what I got was amazing. It was ridiculous and amazing and I just really loved it to pieces. A fantastic, quick read that had me laughing out loud way too many times.
Watchmen by Alan Moore, Dave Gibbons (4/5)
This took me longer to read then I expected - I slogged through it at points, it could get a little overly wordy, but that isn't to say I didn't enjoy - I really did. I guess my expectations were a little high after everything I'd heard, but it was still good.
Coffin Hill, Vol 1 by Caitlin Kitteredge (4/5)
Super interesting and weird and bloody and weird - I weirdly really enjoyed it. A lot. If you haven't looked into it, you should.
Fruits Basket Vol 1 - 23 by Natsuki Takaya (5/5)
Yes - I read all 23 volumes of Fruits Basket in a ridiculous, and probably unhealthy, short amount of time (reread, actually). (I finished the first one on the 2nd of June, and the last one on the 6th). Obviously I really, really love this series. It's just - so good. The anime and the manga, I first watched and read it years ago and just - so good. It's silly, hilarious, fun, ridiculous, makes fun of itself - check it out.
Fire and Flood (Fire and Flood #1) by Victoria Scott (4/5)
I have a full review up Basically - really enjoyed, fast paced.
Everything Leads to You by Nina LaCour (5/5)
I have a full review up. I adored this book, go and read it, it's gorgeous and breathtaking and just so freaking good.
Chopsticks by Jessica Anthony (3/5)
It was a cool concept and interesting - but I think it should of been longer, or that there needed to be more then just a few snippets of IMs between them, I didn't really care about the characters, didn't feel connected to them, and it made no real sense why it was in pictures, to me at least.
Maus Vol 1 + 2 by Art Spiegelman (both - 5/5)
I loved these two graphic novels. They felt very real and very raw, and I really liked the way he used the animals thing. It wasn't overdone and it wasn't jarring at any point.
Locke and Key: Vols 1, 2, + 3 by Joe Hill, Gabriel Rodriguez (all - 5/5)
These first three in the series were fantastic. I love the story and the characters, and the third is probably the one that's the darkest, but they're all pretty dark and intense. And I loved every minute and cannot wait to get my hands on more, highly recommended.
Once Dead, Twice Shy (Madison Avery #1) by Kim Harrison (4/5)
This was good, fun, and quick. And I have a full review here.
Elusive Memories (The Hunted #1) by Amanda Shofner (5/5)
Really liked this, it was interesting from the start and I really liked the characters. And am super looking forward to the next one!
What In God's Name by Simon Rich (5/5)
I don't know what I expected from this book, but it wasn't what I got. And what I got was amazing. It was ridiculous and amazing and I just really loved it to pieces. A fantastic, quick read that had me laughing out loud way too many times.
Watchmen by Alan Moore, Dave Gibbons (4/5)
This took me longer to read then I expected - I slogged through it at points, it could get a little overly wordy, but that isn't to say I didn't enjoy - I really did. I guess my expectations were a little high after everything I'd heard, but it was still good.
Coffin Hill, Vol 1 by Caitlin Kitteredge (4/5)
Super interesting and weird and bloody and weird - I weirdly really enjoyed it. A lot. If you haven't looked into it, you should.
Fruits Basket Vol 1 - 23 by Natsuki Takaya (5/5)
Yes - I read all 23 volumes of Fruits Basket in a ridiculous, and probably unhealthy, short amount of time (reread, actually). (I finished the first one on the 2nd of June, and the last one on the 6th). Obviously I really, really love this series. It's just - so good. The anime and the manga, I first watched and read it years ago and just - so good. It's silly, hilarious, fun, ridiculous, makes fun of itself - check it out.
Fire and Flood (Fire and Flood #1) by Victoria Scott (4/5)
I have a full review up Basically - really enjoyed, fast paced.
Everything Leads to You by Nina LaCour (5/5)
I have a full review up. I adored this book, go and read it, it's gorgeous and breathtaking and just so freaking good.
Chopsticks by Jessica Anthony (3/5)
It was a cool concept and interesting - but I think it should of been longer, or that there needed to be more then just a few snippets of IMs between them, I didn't really care about the characters, didn't feel connected to them, and it made no real sense why it was in pictures, to me at least.
Friday, August 15, 2014
2014: Book Review (9)
And, once again, I haven't done one of these in way too long, especially for the rate at which I've been reading. There have been, what feels like, almost a constant stream of read-a-thons, not that I think I'll ever have no books on my TBR, and I don't think I'd want to - then what would I read next?
Anyway, if you're not sure what this is, this is where I write up mini-reviews of all the books I've read this year in parts, this being part nine.
Dead Man Rising (Dante Valentine #2) by Lilith Saintcrow (4/5 stars)
Liked this one as much as the first, Working for the Devil, it was interesting and fast paced. This whole series is very different, but it's good.
The Devil's Right Hand (Dante Valentine #3) by Lilith Saintcrow (3/5)
Didn't like this one as much as the first two - the beginning felt drawn out, but I did like how it ended, how everything was linked/tied together. I'd still recommend this series if it sounds like someone you'd like. These are books that I don't really have much to say about separately, really just this, but I'm planning on doing a series review when I'm done with all of them.
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley (5/5)
This book - I don't know what it was, I know a lot of people find it boring or repetitive, but I really enjoyed it. I loved her writing and the way the story moved, it wasn't a fast paced book by any means, but I really liked that about it.
The Ask and the Answer (Chaos Walking #2) by Patrick Ness (5/5)
Damn. This series is fantastic and heartbreaking and incredible. I haven't been able to bring myself to read the third and final book in it yet - I just know it's going to leave me broken, but this series is fantastic.
The Purloined Letter by Edgar Allen Poe (3/5)
Just a short story, and it wasn't the best but it was an interesting read all the same.
The Walking Dead: Book Two by Robert Kirkman (3/5)
I had to force myself through this book, I don't know what it was about it. Because its dramatic, full of gore - I should be loving this series, but I'm just not. People get killed and I barely blink, I guess I'm just not invested at all in the story - this might be the last of the comics I read.
Theodosia and the Serpents of Chaos (Theodosia Throckmorton #1) by R.L. LaFevers (3/5)
The beginning - I didn't really care, it was slow and wasn't capturing my attention, but by the end I was enjoying it a lot more. I guess I just expected more from this book, for whatever reason, and I just needed to lower my expectations. I think I'll continue on with the series, I just don't know when considering all the books I have to read.
American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang (4/5)
This was - interesting and really good. It wasn't perfect, but I really liked it and would definitely recommend it.
All Our Yesterdays by Caitlin Terrill (3.5/5)
For most of this book, I just wasn't enjoying it. I wasn't connecting with the characters, I didn't really feel anything towards them besides annoyance and confusion. The only reason this rating is so high is because the ending - I loved the ending, it was what I wanted, no punches pulled. However, apparently there's going to be a sequel, so that lowers my love for the ending a bit because I thought it ended perfectly.
Anyway, if you're not sure what this is, this is where I write up mini-reviews of all the books I've read this year in parts, this being part nine.
Dead Man Rising (Dante Valentine #2) by Lilith Saintcrow (4/5 stars)
Liked this one as much as the first, Working for the Devil, it was interesting and fast paced. This whole series is very different, but it's good.
The Devil's Right Hand (Dante Valentine #3) by Lilith Saintcrow (3/5)
Didn't like this one as much as the first two - the beginning felt drawn out, but I did like how it ended, how everything was linked/tied together. I'd still recommend this series if it sounds like someone you'd like. These are books that I don't really have much to say about separately, really just this, but I'm planning on doing a series review when I'm done with all of them.
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley (5/5)
This book - I don't know what it was, I know a lot of people find it boring or repetitive, but I really enjoyed it. I loved her writing and the way the story moved, it wasn't a fast paced book by any means, but I really liked that about it.
The Ask and the Answer (Chaos Walking #2) by Patrick Ness (5/5)
Damn. This series is fantastic and heartbreaking and incredible. I haven't been able to bring myself to read the third and final book in it yet - I just know it's going to leave me broken, but this series is fantastic.
The Purloined Letter by Edgar Allen Poe (3/5)
Just a short story, and it wasn't the best but it was an interesting read all the same.
The Walking Dead: Book Two by Robert Kirkman (3/5)
I had to force myself through this book, I don't know what it was about it. Because its dramatic, full of gore - I should be loving this series, but I'm just not. People get killed and I barely blink, I guess I'm just not invested at all in the story - this might be the last of the comics I read.
Theodosia and the Serpents of Chaos (Theodosia Throckmorton #1) by R.L. LaFevers (3/5)
The beginning - I didn't really care, it was slow and wasn't capturing my attention, but by the end I was enjoying it a lot more. I guess I just expected more from this book, for whatever reason, and I just needed to lower my expectations. I think I'll continue on with the series, I just don't know when considering all the books I have to read.
American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang (4/5)
This was - interesting and really good. It wasn't perfect, but I really liked it and would definitely recommend it.
All Our Yesterdays by Caitlin Terrill (3.5/5)
For most of this book, I just wasn't enjoying it. I wasn't connecting with the characters, I didn't really feel anything towards them besides annoyance and confusion. The only reason this rating is so high is because the ending - I loved the ending, it was what I wanted, no punches pulled. However, apparently there's going to be a sequel, so that lowers my love for the ending a bit because I thought it ended perfectly.
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
2014: Book Reviews (8)
And we have part eight of my mini-book reviews series of this year, I can't believe I've read this many books so far this year - and I wonder how many part I'll get to by the end of the year. And besides that mini-rant - the books.
The Knife of Never Letting Go (Chaos Walking #1) by Patrick Ness (5/5)
I can't believe no one forced me to read this book - why did no one do this? This book is fantastic and incredible and - just go forth and read it. And my full review can be found here (link will be live when review is).
Zom-B by Darren Shan (1/5)
I - don't want to talk about this, I'm trying to block this book from my mind. That probably sounds cruel and it probably is a little, but I've never reacted to a book the way I did this one.
Cold War by Adam Christopher
This is a prequel novella for his new novel, The Burning Dark, and it really peaked my interest. Saying that, I started the book and just wasn't in the mood (it was during a 24-hour read-a-thon, and SciFi can be too heavy for that), but I'm looking forward to getting into it more, but this was an interesting intro to the world.
God Save the Queen (Immortal Empire #1) by Kate Locke (5/5)
If you follow me anywhere - you probably know of my flailing for this entire series. And I have full reviews for all of them. Basically this series is: steampunk, vampires, mutation in DNA, romance, there are also werewolves, Queen Victoria does also. Full review for God Save the Queen.
The Queen is Dead (Immortal Empire #2) by Kate Locke (5/5)
This book was just as good as the first, and in my review I started spewing love about the LGBT representation in this series (mostly because of my favorite non-main character). Full review here.
The Walking Dead: Book One by Robert Kirkman
A reread so I could continue on with the series - it was good, but I've read it before and seen the first series, of course.
Long Live the Queen (Immortal Empire #3) by Kate Locke (5/5)
The final book in this fantastic series. Full review here.
The New World (Chaos Walking #0.5) by Patrick Ness (5/5)
A great little peak into Viola's life before the story starts and before she meets Todd, really enjoyed it, I listened to it in audiobook form - so well done.
The Knife of Never Letting Go (Chaos Walking #1) by Patrick Ness (5/5)
I can't believe no one forced me to read this book - why did no one do this? This book is fantastic and incredible and - just go forth and read it. And my full review can be found here (link will be live when review is).
Zom-B by Darren Shan (1/5)
I - don't want to talk about this, I'm trying to block this book from my mind. That probably sounds cruel and it probably is a little, but I've never reacted to a book the way I did this one.
Cold War by Adam Christopher
This is a prequel novella for his new novel, The Burning Dark, and it really peaked my interest. Saying that, I started the book and just wasn't in the mood (it was during a 24-hour read-a-thon, and SciFi can be too heavy for that), but I'm looking forward to getting into it more, but this was an interesting intro to the world.
God Save the Queen (Immortal Empire #1) by Kate Locke (5/5)
If you follow me anywhere - you probably know of my flailing for this entire series. And I have full reviews for all of them. Basically this series is: steampunk, vampires, mutation in DNA, romance, there are also werewolves, Queen Victoria does also. Full review for God Save the Queen.
The Queen is Dead (Immortal Empire #2) by Kate Locke (5/5)
This book was just as good as the first, and in my review I started spewing love about the LGBT representation in this series (mostly because of my favorite non-main character). Full review here.
The Walking Dead: Book One by Robert Kirkman
A reread so I could continue on with the series - it was good, but I've read it before and seen the first series, of course.
Long Live the Queen (Immortal Empire #3) by Kate Locke (5/5)
The final book in this fantastic series. Full review here.
The New World (Chaos Walking #0.5) by Patrick Ness (5/5)
A great little peak into Viola's life before the story starts and before she meets Todd, really enjoyed it, I listened to it in audiobook form - so well done.
Thursday, June 5, 2014
2014: Book Reviews (7)
And here we go, another part of this series I'm doing. I really like this idea, even though a lot of these books I did post full reviews of. I haven't done one of these in way too long, and with the recent read-a-thons that have happened, I'm starting to fall behind. Anyway - onto the books.
Paradox: The Nine Great Enigmas in Physics by Jim Al-Khalili (5/5)
I really enjoyed this book, it's a non-fiction science book full of interesting physics things. Which probably sounds very boring to you, but if it sounds interesting I'd check this one out. He can articulate what he's trying to say very well, which is important for non-fiction and especially with something like this that goes this deep into quantum physics and other stuff. I'd like to write a full review of this one, but I don't think it'll happen, just because that's kind of all I have to say about it.
The War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells (4/5)
Good, even very good, but it just felt like it was a little odd at points to me. I did really enjoy it, though, and it's what I'm blaming on my recent SciFi binge and then love, which I kind of hope never goes away (the love for it, that is).
Redshirts by John Scalzi (5/5)
So. Fucking. Good. And hilarious as hell. I put up a full review here, but basically I highly recommend this book (even for people who aren't Star Trek fans).
Leviathan Wakes (The Expanse #1) by James S.A. Corey (5/5)
This book. I've got a full review here, but - man I cannot stop just spewing how much I love this book and flailing so I'll just stop now.
The Martian by Andy Weir (5/5)
This was also a really funny SciFi book, but it's about a guy that just gets trapped on Mars. And he's a really great narrator, and it's probably why I loved this book so much, because he's hilarious. Full review here.
House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski (5/5)
Psychological horror book that is great. It took me a while to read it, but I didn't really mind that, it was just one of those books that I felt would be better slow. And it was creepy and how the text is arranged at certain parts added a lot to the atmosphere and it was really cool.
The Preacher: Book One by Garth Ennis, Steve Dillon (5/5)
Gore, violence, what would probably offend anyone whose at all religious. Everything I love! (Okay, that was a joke, kind of a joke because looking on my taste it's also a tad true). I've got a full review up here. (Basically, though - really good, can't wait to continue the series).
Caliban's War (The Expanse #2) by James S.A. Corey (5/5)
This series is fantastic. And instead of fangirling about it again, I'm just going to stop - check out this series (my full review of Leviathan Wakes it just a little up there). Space Opera, guys - it's so good.
The Emperor's Soul by Brandon Sanderson (5/5)
A reread and this time I listened to the audiobook and loved it as much as I did the first time. Sanderson writes such rich worlds with such interesting magic systems and they're always so different, it's incredible.
Paradox: The Nine Great Enigmas in Physics by Jim Al-Khalili (5/5)
I really enjoyed this book, it's a non-fiction science book full of interesting physics things. Which probably sounds very boring to you, but if it sounds interesting I'd check this one out. He can articulate what he's trying to say very well, which is important for non-fiction and especially with something like this that goes this deep into quantum physics and other stuff. I'd like to write a full review of this one, but I don't think it'll happen, just because that's kind of all I have to say about it.
The War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells (4/5)
Good, even very good, but it just felt like it was a little odd at points to me. I did really enjoy it, though, and it's what I'm blaming on my recent SciFi binge and then love, which I kind of hope never goes away (the love for it, that is).
Redshirts by John Scalzi (5/5)
So. Fucking. Good. And hilarious as hell. I put up a full review here, but basically I highly recommend this book (even for people who aren't Star Trek fans).
Leviathan Wakes (The Expanse #1) by James S.A. Corey (5/5)
This book. I've got a full review here, but - man I cannot stop just spewing how much I love this book and flailing so I'll just stop now.
The Martian by Andy Weir (5/5)
This was also a really funny SciFi book, but it's about a guy that just gets trapped on Mars. And he's a really great narrator, and it's probably why I loved this book so much, because he's hilarious. Full review here.
House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski (5/5)
Psychological horror book that is great. It took me a while to read it, but I didn't really mind that, it was just one of those books that I felt would be better slow. And it was creepy and how the text is arranged at certain parts added a lot to the atmosphere and it was really cool.
The Preacher: Book One by Garth Ennis, Steve Dillon (5/5)
Gore, violence, what would probably offend anyone whose at all religious. Everything I love! (Okay, that was a joke, kind of a joke because looking on my taste it's also a tad true). I've got a full review up here. (Basically, though - really good, can't wait to continue the series).
Caliban's War (The Expanse #2) by James S.A. Corey (5/5)
This series is fantastic. And instead of fangirling about it again, I'm just going to stop - check out this series (my full review of Leviathan Wakes it just a little up there). Space Opera, guys - it's so good.
The Emperor's Soul by Brandon Sanderson (5/5)
A reread and this time I listened to the audiobook and loved it as much as I did the first time. Sanderson writes such rich worlds with such interesting magic systems and they're always so different, it's incredible.
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
2014: Book Reviews (6)
I've read so many more books this year so far, it's completely ridiculous to me because I use to struggle to my goal of fifty or a hundred, now I've already blown past 50 books for the year. Anyway, onto the mini-book reviews, I think.
Young Avengers, Vol. 1: Style > Substance by Kieron Gillen (5/5)
I really enjoyed this, I really enjoy these compiled comic books, which is a whole different rant. Also, if you're looking to get into comics and have no idea where to start: Marvel Now, and I'd kind of like to do a post all about comic books / graphic novels / manga (but this will probably take months to do, so it definitely won't be up anytime soon).
Saga, Vol. 1 - 3 by Brian K. Vaughan (5/5)
So good, I'm just including all three volumes together. I didn't know what to expect going in, but it was so good, such a great beginning. I loved the characters, the art is gorgeous through all three volumes, and I love the way the stories told. Definitely recommending this whole series. It's definitely got mature content, though. I gave all three 5/5 stars, and I wish I could of given them more almost.
Princesses Behaving Badly: Real Stories From History Without the Fairy-Tale Ending by Linda Rodriguez McRobbie (5/5)
I wrote up a full review of this book here, but in short - oh man, so amazing, historical princesses that were real and the book was so well written. Also - even if it might not sound like exactly your cup of tea, if you run across it in a store, read the introduction, it made me smile, at least. (Feminism, princesses - what's not to like?)
The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson (5/5)
I read this book in the UK two part edition, but I'm just going to mention it here as one book, because as soon as I finished one, I picked up the other (though I did finish other books between the two, because this is a long book). I want to write a full review of this one, but I think I have to reread it. Bottom line: this book was one of those books that makes you just feel full, it makes you feel good and just like content. Does that make sense to anyone? (Recommended, so highly, all of his books actually).
Shadow Kiss (Vampire Academy #3) by Richelle Meade (4/5)
I just keep reading these books, I mean I have the box set so I might as well just read them. And I did give this one a star higher then the first two, and I did enjoy it, but I also just don't know if I really care about these characters or where I can see the plot going. I'll probably end up picking up the next one at some point, probably, definitely no rush.
Bite Me (London Undead #1) by P.J. Schnyder (3/5)
I don't actually remember why I picked this up, it was really cheep, kindle, and someone I follow on Goodreads was talking about the newest one. It might of been two people. Anyway - it was fun and action-y. Werewolves, zombies, - just some light fun, enjoyed it though.
Young Avengers, Vol. 1: Style > Substance by Kieron Gillen (5/5)
I really enjoyed this, I really enjoy these compiled comic books, which is a whole different rant. Also, if you're looking to get into comics and have no idea where to start: Marvel Now, and I'd kind of like to do a post all about comic books / graphic novels / manga (but this will probably take months to do, so it definitely won't be up anytime soon).
Saga, Vol. 1 - 3 by Brian K. Vaughan (5/5)
So good, I'm just including all three volumes together. I didn't know what to expect going in, but it was so good, such a great beginning. I loved the characters, the art is gorgeous through all three volumes, and I love the way the stories told. Definitely recommending this whole series. It's definitely got mature content, though. I gave all three 5/5 stars, and I wish I could of given them more almost.
Princesses Behaving Badly: Real Stories From History Without the Fairy-Tale Ending by Linda Rodriguez McRobbie (5/5)
I wrote up a full review of this book here, but in short - oh man, so amazing, historical princesses that were real and the book was so well written. Also - even if it might not sound like exactly your cup of tea, if you run across it in a store, read the introduction, it made me smile, at least. (Feminism, princesses - what's not to like?)
The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson (5/5)
I read this book in the UK two part edition, but I'm just going to mention it here as one book, because as soon as I finished one, I picked up the other (though I did finish other books between the two, because this is a long book). I want to write a full review of this one, but I think I have to reread it. Bottom line: this book was one of those books that makes you just feel full, it makes you feel good and just like content. Does that make sense to anyone? (Recommended, so highly, all of his books actually).
Shadow Kiss (Vampire Academy #3) by Richelle Meade (4/5)
I just keep reading these books, I mean I have the box set so I might as well just read them. And I did give this one a star higher then the first two, and I did enjoy it, but I also just don't know if I really care about these characters or where I can see the plot going. I'll probably end up picking up the next one at some point, probably, definitely no rush.
Bite Me (London Undead #1) by P.J. Schnyder (3/5)
I don't actually remember why I picked this up, it was really cheep, kindle, and someone I follow on Goodreads was talking about the newest one. It might of been two people. Anyway - it was fun and action-y. Werewolves, zombies, - just some light fun, enjoyed it though.
Thursday, March 6, 2014
2014: Book Reviews (4 - Harry Potter edition)
I'm not going to do a full review of each Harry Potter book, I don't actually know if I could and if I did most of it would just be flailing. I already put a lot of thoughts, most of them, in my rereads of 2014 post, so I don't know what else I can share.
I did a full reread of Harry Potter in February, which I haven't done for a long time, and if you want to read more about rereading and my HP experience and such you can check out my post about Rereading books and Why I Think It's Important. So most of things I want to say about this series have been said, probably.
I love this series, I love Harry Potter. The characters, the world, the whole freaking deal, I absolutely adore it. (I go to HP conventions, this should be obvious). I'm going to keep things as vague as I can, but - there are going to be spoilers below. I'm sorry but just go and read them if you haven't already.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (Harry Potter #1) by J.K. Rowling (5/5)
So good and so just - lovely. This is probably the one I've reread the most recently, but it might of been Deathly Hallows. I love this first book and Harry finding out that he's a wizard and how his parents died and that he's famous. I just - love it. And it's so comforting, the whole series it, it's like... home. (Cheesy, but so true).
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Harry Potter #2) by J.K. Rowling (5/5)
I normally say this is my least favorite book in the series, probably the one I've reread the least behind Goblet of Fire, but I flew through it this time alone. And I did really enjoy it. From Harry seeing the Burrow first time and really staying with the Weasley's just in general, to the flying car thing, I really enjoyed rereading this on.
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (Harry Potter #3) by J.K. Rowling (5/5)
I love this book and, surprisingly, not just because I'm a Marauder fangirl, though that definitely is part of it. I really enjoy how at the beginning, Harry is trying to stay calm, in control, and also how he was doing his homework at night. And how he looses control, even being older now. Obviously - I love Remus teaching them and that whole end with the Shrieking Shack and the time turner, it's so good and so very clever.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Harry Potter #4) by J.K. Rowling (5/5)
So, like I said, this is about tied with CoS for book I've reread the least. Which is just - awful, truly, because I loved this book rereading it. And even though it's basically twice the size of PoA, I flew through it. I just kind of love the whole thing, honestly, it's fantastic and intense as hell at parts. Also, you know, finishing that book that it's started again, and that they're just going to get darker.
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Harry Potter #5) by J.K. Rowling (5/5)
I don't know why ever through CoS was my least favorite of the series, because it's definitely this one. I mean I still really enjoyed it, don't get me wrong, but Umbridge, guys. She makes me want to strange her or just bash her, or my, head against the wall. She's just so - evil, honestly, but in an almost civil way. She's clever about it but cruel, but there are still some things I love. The D.A. meetings and the twins pranks. The ending always gets me, though, I'm sure you all know why.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (Harry Potter #6) by J.K. Rowling (5/5)
I have no warm fuzzy feelings for Slughorn, but also not really any really negative feelings about it, I'm pretty meh. So - that was fantastic after Umbridge. And some of the scenes in this book are odd and hilarious. Overall, I love this book, with the memories of Voldemort and the problems the kids run into. And the ending, from GoF on all the endings are just - awful and amazing. (Except the Epilogue on Deathly Hallows, but shhhh).
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Harry Potter #6) by J.K. Rowling (5/5)
Why do so many of my absolute favorite characters die? Ah, well, I guess it's okay. I love the whole end of this book. Except the Epilogue. Oddly enough, I didn't mind the epilogue all that much the first few times and I read it and then - the more I did and the more I thought about what it implied (I'm pretty sure I was mostly in shock still, or sobbing, especially the first time through), I just don't like it, it annoys me. But - the book is fantastic and the series is fantastic and I'm so glad I reread them now.
I did a full reread of Harry Potter in February, which I haven't done for a long time, and if you want to read more about rereading and my HP experience and such you can check out my post about Rereading books and Why I Think It's Important. So most of things I want to say about this series have been said, probably.
I love this series, I love Harry Potter. The characters, the world, the whole freaking deal, I absolutely adore it. (I go to HP conventions, this should be obvious). I'm going to keep things as vague as I can, but - there are going to be spoilers below. I'm sorry but just go and read them if you haven't already.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (Harry Potter #1) by J.K. Rowling (5/5)
So good and so just - lovely. This is probably the one I've reread the most recently, but it might of been Deathly Hallows. I love this first book and Harry finding out that he's a wizard and how his parents died and that he's famous. I just - love it. And it's so comforting, the whole series it, it's like... home. (Cheesy, but so true).
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Harry Potter #2) by J.K. Rowling (5/5)
I normally say this is my least favorite book in the series, probably the one I've reread the least behind Goblet of Fire, but I flew through it this time alone. And I did really enjoy it. From Harry seeing the Burrow first time and really staying with the Weasley's just in general, to the flying car thing, I really enjoyed rereading this on.
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (Harry Potter #3) by J.K. Rowling (5/5)
I love this book and, surprisingly, not just because I'm a Marauder fangirl, though that definitely is part of it. I really enjoy how at the beginning, Harry is trying to stay calm, in control, and also how he was doing his homework at night. And how he looses control, even being older now. Obviously - I love Remus teaching them and that whole end with the Shrieking Shack and the time turner, it's so good and so very clever.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Harry Potter #4) by J.K. Rowling (5/5)
So, like I said, this is about tied with CoS for book I've reread the least. Which is just - awful, truly, because I loved this book rereading it. And even though it's basically twice the size of PoA, I flew through it. I just kind of love the whole thing, honestly, it's fantastic and intense as hell at parts. Also, you know, finishing that book that it's started again, and that they're just going to get darker.
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Harry Potter #5) by J.K. Rowling (5/5)
I don't know why ever through CoS was my least favorite of the series, because it's definitely this one. I mean I still really enjoyed it, don't get me wrong, but Umbridge, guys. She makes me want to strange her or just bash her, or my, head against the wall. She's just so - evil, honestly, but in an almost civil way. She's clever about it but cruel, but there are still some things I love. The D.A. meetings and the twins pranks. The ending always gets me, though, I'm sure you all know why.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (Harry Potter #6) by J.K. Rowling (5/5)
I have no warm fuzzy feelings for Slughorn, but also not really any really negative feelings about it, I'm pretty meh. So - that was fantastic after Umbridge. And some of the scenes in this book are odd and hilarious. Overall, I love this book, with the memories of Voldemort and the problems the kids run into. And the ending, from GoF on all the endings are just - awful and amazing. (Except the Epilogue on Deathly Hallows, but shhhh).
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Harry Potter #6) by J.K. Rowling (5/5)
Why do so many of my absolute favorite characters die? Ah, well, I guess it's okay. I love the whole end of this book. Except the Epilogue. Oddly enough, I didn't mind the epilogue all that much the first few times and I read it and then - the more I did and the more I thought about what it implied (I'm pretty sure I was mostly in shock still, or sobbing, especially the first time through), I just don't like it, it annoys me. But - the book is fantastic and the series is fantastic and I'm so glad I reread them now.
Friday, February 28, 2014
2014: Book Reviews (3)
And we have part three of this series I've been doing, I'm falling behind but hopefully I can get caught up now that I've slowed down the pace I was keeping in January. And, without any further introduction, the books.
Firstborn by Brandon Sanderson (4/5)
This was interesting and facinating. It was very short, just a short story, but I was pulled in instantly, as is normally the case with Sanderson. This story has a rich world, even though we don't spend much time in it, and some very interesting things to be learned. It's only 99 cents, I believe, on Kindle, totally worth it.
Doctor Who: The Rising Night by Scott Handcock (3/5)
I listened to this, audible style, but I kept getting distracted and had to back it up. And I wasn't really doing anything important, it just didn't hold my attention very much. It was an interesting story and a good little short Doctor Who fix, but not one of the best Doctor Who novels/novellas I've read or listened to.
Hawkeye, Vol. 2: Little Hits by Matt Fraction and many more (4/5)
Really liked this. For some reason I just like Clint's character and personality, even if he can be an asshole, and it makes it fun to read. I really don't have much of anything to say about this one, except that Kate is awesome.
Vampire Academy (Vampire Academy #1) by Richelle Meade (3/5)
It was - good. Okay. Just some of the high school drama BS dragged a little for my taste, I really don't have much time for it. I do want to continue this series, I liked Rose and I liked the mythos. I felt like they handled a few things a little odd. I kind of think that their age difference (Rose/Dimiri) isn't a really big deal at all? I mean, even the apprentice thing isn't that big of deal, but maybe I just don't think of it as such a shock anymore. The apprentice thing, I think, should definitely be more of a problem then their age difference.
Seduction in Death (In Death #13) by J.D. Robb (5/5)
Oh man, guys, this was so good. I love this series and it is a tad cheesy at points, the writing, but not in a bad way. If that makes any sense to you. I adore these characters and how they interact. This one had a lot of them present. The killer(s) were known pretty early on but that didn't change the tension at all, and I love that even though there are a ton of these books, the murders/plot never feels done before or old.
Reunion in Death (In Death #14) by J.D. Robb (5/5)
Really good, too. I adored it, I really did. And it had a lot more personal stuff with the main character and her past. These books aren't, like, high literature, but they're fun and a good story and normally keep me guessing pretty well. And, of course, adore the characters and that is a good enough reason to continue reading.
And I'm going to stop here for now, because next is the first Harry Potter book, kicking off my Harry Potter read. I think I'll do a full post like this revolving around that and then back to normal. (There were two books in the middle of the series that I'll just kick back to the next review post).
Firstborn by Brandon Sanderson (4/5)
This was interesting and facinating. It was very short, just a short story, but I was pulled in instantly, as is normally the case with Sanderson. This story has a rich world, even though we don't spend much time in it, and some very interesting things to be learned. It's only 99 cents, I believe, on Kindle, totally worth it.
Doctor Who: The Rising Night by Scott Handcock (3/5)
I listened to this, audible style, but I kept getting distracted and had to back it up. And I wasn't really doing anything important, it just didn't hold my attention very much. It was an interesting story and a good little short Doctor Who fix, but not one of the best Doctor Who novels/novellas I've read or listened to.
Hawkeye, Vol. 2: Little Hits by Matt Fraction and many more (4/5)
Really liked this. For some reason I just like Clint's character and personality, even if he can be an asshole, and it makes it fun to read. I really don't have much of anything to say about this one, except that Kate is awesome.
Vampire Academy (Vampire Academy #1) by Richelle Meade (3/5)
It was - good. Okay. Just some of the high school drama BS dragged a little for my taste, I really don't have much time for it. I do want to continue this series, I liked Rose and I liked the mythos. I felt like they handled a few things a little odd. I kind of think that their age difference (Rose/Dimiri) isn't a really big deal at all? I mean, even the apprentice thing isn't that big of deal, but maybe I just don't think of it as such a shock anymore. The apprentice thing, I think, should definitely be more of a problem then their age difference.
Seduction in Death (In Death #13) by J.D. Robb (5/5)
Oh man, guys, this was so good. I love this series and it is a tad cheesy at points, the writing, but not in a bad way. If that makes any sense to you. I adore these characters and how they interact. This one had a lot of them present. The killer(s) were known pretty early on but that didn't change the tension at all, and I love that even though there are a ton of these books, the murders/plot never feels done before or old.
Reunion in Death (In Death #14) by J.D. Robb (5/5)
Really good, too. I adored it, I really did. And it had a lot more personal stuff with the main character and her past. These books aren't, like, high literature, but they're fun and a good story and normally keep me guessing pretty well. And, of course, adore the characters and that is a good enough reason to continue reading.
And I'm going to stop here for now, because next is the first Harry Potter book, kicking off my Harry Potter read. I think I'll do a full post like this revolving around that and then back to normal. (There were two books in the middle of the series that I'll just kick back to the next review post).
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