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**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Burning Midnight is a standalone young adult science fiction fantasy by Will McIntosh. And guess what? It features a male protagonist. Do you even know how excited I was to see a character like Sully? I loved him. And I loved Burning Midnight. Everything about this book made me excited to read it, and once I started, even more excited to keep reading. I loved that the world is much the same as the world as we know it. Burning Midnight takes place in present day New York City, and all the regular things like facebook, ebay, and flea markets exist. The one big difference is that little colored marbles (called orbs) are scattered throughout the world. They just showed up one day and no one knows where they came from.
People soon discovered that if you found a pair of the same color orbs and you "burned" them, meaning you held them up to your temples, that you would absorb some sort of talent from the orbs. Each color, represented a different talent. The better the talent, the more rare the orb. And the more rare the orb, the more money you could sell them for. The talents were really cool, ranging from everything like running faster to perfect memory recall.
Will McIntosh has done a really excellent job creating a world that is well thought out, imaginative, and fun to roam around in. I loved hanging out with Sully, Hunter, Mandy and Dom. I was really hooked waiting to see what was going to happen next. And as soon as we learned what the title referred to, (midnight is a midnight blue orb that is way bigger than the rest of them. Everyone is searching everywhere to find its' match so it can be burned.) I was even more excited. There is a lot of stuff going on in Burning Midnight and the book seemed to gain momentum as it went on. I loved that it was a standalone, but at the same time, I would have liked to have seen the end stretched out a bit so we could have gotten a second installment in. I really enjoyed this world, and these characters. The ending took me by surprise, and while it wasn't something I normally go for, I liked it in this case.
Bottom line: if you like science fiction books and fantasy books that are set in present day settings with a burst of magic thrown in, Burning Midnight is a plot that you will completely love. The gang of characters is delightful and the action and world building are spot on. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, and would recommend it all young adult readers. And did I mention, the main character is a guy? Double points for that.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Burning Midnight is a standalone young adult science fiction fantasy by Will McIntosh. And guess what? It features a male protagonist. Do you even know how excited I was to see a character like Sully? I loved him. And I loved Burning Midnight. Everything about this book made me excited to read it, and once I started, even more excited to keep reading. I loved that the world is much the same as the world as we know it. Burning Midnight takes place in present day New York City, and all the regular things like facebook, ebay, and flea markets exist. The one big difference is that little colored marbles (called orbs) are scattered throughout the world. They just showed up one day and no one knows where they came from.
People soon discovered that if you found a pair of the same color orbs and you "burned" them, meaning you held them up to your temples, that you would absorb some sort of talent from the orbs. Each color, represented a different talent. The better the talent, the more rare the orb. And the more rare the orb, the more money you could sell them for. The talents were really cool, ranging from everything like running faster to perfect memory recall.
Will McIntosh has done a really excellent job creating a world that is well thought out, imaginative, and fun to roam around in. I loved hanging out with Sully, Hunter, Mandy and Dom. I was really hooked waiting to see what was going to happen next. And as soon as we learned what the title referred to, (midnight is a midnight blue orb that is way bigger than the rest of them. Everyone is searching everywhere to find its' match so it can be burned.) I was even more excited. There is a lot of stuff going on in Burning Midnight and the book seemed to gain momentum as it went on. I loved that it was a standalone, but at the same time, I would have liked to have seen the end stretched out a bit so we could have gotten a second installment in. I really enjoyed this world, and these characters. The ending took me by surprise, and while it wasn't something I normally go for, I liked it in this case.
Bottom line: if you like science fiction books and fantasy books that are set in present day settings with a burst of magic thrown in, Burning Midnight is a plot that you will completely love. The gang of characters is delightful and the action and world building are spot on. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, and would recommend it all young adult readers. And did I mention, the main character is a guy? Double points for that.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**How do you talk about a book that just shattered all of your expectations in the most unexpected ways? I feel like quoting big brother while reviewing The 5th Wave, saying "expect the unexpected". This book felt totally new to me and, I think that was what I loved most about it. I decided to pick up this series because a lot of exciting things are happening surrounding it this year. The first book is being made into a movie, which releases in January and the final book, The Last Star, is coming out on May 24, 2016 so I thought now was the perfect time to finally read the trilogy. And I have to say, I can't wait for the movie!
The 5th Wave is the first book in a young adult dystopian trilogy by Rick Yancey. It tells the crazy story of 5 waves that hit the earth, each one more terrifying and different than the last. I'll tell you snippets of each of the first four waves, but the 5th one is something you will have to read the book to experience. (click the spoiler to read teasers of each of the waves- I don't really give much away though so it should be pretty safe to read even if you have not yet read the book.)1) E.M.P blast that took out all forms of technology. 2) A worldwide earthquake 3) An airborne Ebola virus 4) Aliens! trained to kill humans assassin style! There is a lot going on all at once in the 5th wave. But I have to say Rick Yancey does a terrific job dealing with the chaos and still making it easy for the reader to follow the story.
Cassie and Evan, the two main characters were great. Cassie's narrative was unique and completely fit with the choas of the story all around her. And Evan, well I just have to know what is going to happen with him in the next book. The author leaves you hanging at the end of this book, but like I pointed out earlier you have the movie and second book to tide you over. Fans of young adult Dystopian and of thriller books with a darker edge to them need to read The 5th Wave series. I am kicking myself that it took me this long to read them.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
The 5th Wave is the first book in a young adult dystopian trilogy by Rick Yancey. It tells the crazy story of 5 waves that hit the earth, each one more terrifying and different than the last. I'll tell you snippets of each of the first four waves, but the 5th one is something you will have to read the book to experience. (click the spoiler to read teasers of each of the waves- I don't really give much away though so it should be pretty safe to read even if you have not yet read the book.)
Cassie and Evan, the two main characters were great. Cassie's narrative was unique and completely fit with the choas of the story all around her. And Evan, well I just have to know what is going to happen with him in the next book. The author leaves you hanging at the end of this book, but like I pointed out earlier you have the movie and second book to tide you over. Fans of young adult Dystopian and of thriller books with a darker edge to them need to read The 5th Wave series. I am kicking myself that it took me this long to read them.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Forbidden is a young adult mystery by Eve Bunting. It is a dark and mysterious, quick read that I thoroughly enjoyed. I loved the dreary, almost foggy atmosphere of the little Scottish fishing village, and I really liked how easily digestible the book was. It took me just under 2 hours to read Forbidden, and I walked away feeling like it was a complete story, not a novella. The romance in Forbidden is a nice aside but it is by no means the focal point of the story.
After Josie's parents both pass away from influenza, she is sent to live with her estranged aunt and uncle. When she gets to the town, everything seems a little strange. Just a tad off, including her Aunt and Uncle. It was hard not to get wrapped up in the creepy little town that Eve Bunting created in Forbidden. I could never pin down exactly what was going on. Eve did an excellent job of maintaining a mysterious air about her writing up until the very last minute. Was it something magical? Was it something nefarious? What is something obvious? And then what on earth was the deal with Eli, and why was everyone calling him Forbidden?
Forbidden was a fun little jaunt with a mysterious read. It would have been perfect to read on Halloween, and I love the author's aside at the end of the story where the inspiration for the tale came from. If you like darker, quick reads that have a hint of romance (but not too much) then Forbidden is the book for you. Seriously, check it out if you love a good atmospheric read.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Forbidden is a young adult mystery by Eve Bunting. It is a dark and mysterious, quick read that I thoroughly enjoyed. I loved the dreary, almost foggy atmosphere of the little Scottish fishing village, and I really liked how easily digestible the book was. It took me just under 2 hours to read Forbidden, and I walked away feeling like it was a complete story, not a novella. The romance in Forbidden is a nice aside but it is by no means the focal point of the story.
After Josie's parents both pass away from influenza, she is sent to live with her estranged aunt and uncle. When she gets to the town, everything seems a little strange. Just a tad off, including her Aunt and Uncle. It was hard not to get wrapped up in the creepy little town that Eve Bunting created in Forbidden. I could never pin down exactly what was going on. Eve did an excellent job of maintaining a mysterious air about her writing up until the very last minute. Was it something magical? Was it something nefarious? What is something obvious? And then what on earth was the deal with Eli, and why was everyone calling him Forbidden?
Forbidden was a fun little jaunt with a mysterious read. It would have been perfect to read on Halloween, and I love the author's aside at the end of the story where the inspiration for the tale came from. If you like darker, quick reads that have a hint of romance (but not too much) then Forbidden is the book for you. Seriously, check it out if you love a good atmospheric read.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**The Shadow Behind the Stars by Rebecca Hahn is a young adult mythology book unlike any other mythology story I have read in the young adult world. It read more like a traditional Greek tale. A fictionalized play of a Greek tragedy, and there was just something about that the academic and history nerd inside of me ate right up. I loved that this story was set in ancient Greece and that it had all the sorrowful tragic elements of traditional Greek myths. Of course, that meant for a more violent and slower pace of story telling, which to me equates to a more mature target audience. I think adults will love this story perhaps more than young adults.
The Shadow Behind the Stars is told from the point of view of the Fates. I have not read too many books from the three fate sisters point of view, so that was really interesting to me. It was a kinder and gentler fate than I was used to from tales. They knew they had to carry out their job, but they could just not help but get swept up in poor Aglaia's story and destiny. I really liked the dichotomy of voices in the this story. The book is told from the point of view of one of the Fates, but on the other hand, it is also very much Aglaia's tale. The interplay between narrator voice and main character played out really nicely. I am very impressed with Rebecca Hahn's writing.
The Shadow Behind the Stars is not one of those books that you can gobble up in a quick afternoon. It has a slower pace and is meant to be savored. I don't often get to read books like this because of my limited reading time, I am drawn more towards instant gratification stories, but there is something really satisfying about digging into a book that forces you to slow down and really digest each page. If you are a fan of traditional greek mythology, you should really check out The Shadow Behind the Stars. It is a beautiful (and yes a little sad) tale. I will tell you one thing, I can't wait to read another book by Rebecca Hahn.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
The Shadow Behind the Stars is told from the point of view of the Fates. I have not read too many books from the three fate sisters point of view, so that was really interesting to me. It was a kinder and gentler fate than I was used to from tales. They knew they had to carry out their job, but they could just not help but get swept up in poor Aglaia's story and destiny. I really liked the dichotomy of voices in the this story. The book is told from the point of view of one of the Fates, but on the other hand, it is also very much Aglaia's tale. The interplay between narrator voice and main character played out really nicely. I am very impressed with Rebecca Hahn's writing.
The Shadow Behind the Stars is not one of those books that you can gobble up in a quick afternoon. It has a slower pace and is meant to be savored. I don't often get to read books like this because of my limited reading time, I am drawn more towards instant gratification stories, but there is something really satisfying about digging into a book that forces you to slow down and really digest each page. If you are a fan of traditional greek mythology, you should really check out The Shadow Behind the Stars. It is a beautiful (and yes a little sad) tale. I will tell you one thing, I can't wait to read another book by Rebecca Hahn.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Controlled Burn is the second book in the Boston Fire series by Shannon Stacey. Each of the books can be read as a standalone, and I have to admit that I had no idea this was book 2 in a series, until I pulled it up on goodreads to write this review. (That should tell you that it really can be read a true standalone.) Now I am very curious to check out who book one is about, and get my hands on a copy of that as well. Controlled Burn is a great contemporary romance. I really connected with the subject matter of the book because it deals with something near and dear to my heart with the elderly and the issues they face while aging.
It warmed my heart to see Jessica come to help out her grandparents, even though she had never met them before. It was really touching to see. And I loved how real their family dynamic was. There was no black and white good buy/bad guy for why they had all fallen out of touch. Both sides (parent and Jessica's father- the son, each had a part to play in their separation, and it was all very real life. Shades of gray galore.) But it wasn't the focus of the story, it was just a part of the characters backstory. The real focus to me was watching Jessica and Rick and Jessica's grandparents interact. I loved watching Rick with them just as much as I loved watching Jessica with them. It was so easy to see how much Rick cares for them.
Controlled Burn is a feel good romance. There is no ulterior motive, there is no huge secret looming, threatening to break them apart the second it is exposed, and that was refreshing for me to read. This was the story of two people coming together and making it work, just as much as it was a nice story about family. Sure, there were roadblocks and obstacles, but they were not what they are so many times in romances. I really, really enjoyed Controlled Burn. Plus, there are lots and lots of firefighters. Let's not forget about them.
Bottom line: Controlled Burn is great for readers that like family centric romances, that feel true to life. Plus points if you love grandparents and firefighters.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Controlled Burn is the second book in the Boston Fire series by Shannon Stacey. Each of the books can be read as a standalone, and I have to admit that I had no idea this was book 2 in a series, until I pulled it up on goodreads to write this review. (That should tell you that it really can be read a true standalone.) Now I am very curious to check out who book one is about, and get my hands on a copy of that as well. Controlled Burn is a great contemporary romance. I really connected with the subject matter of the book because it deals with something near and dear to my heart with the elderly and the issues they face while aging.
It warmed my heart to see Jessica come to help out her grandparents, even though she had never met them before. It was really touching to see. And I loved how real their family dynamic was. There was no black and white good buy/bad guy for why they had all fallen out of touch. Both sides (parent and Jessica's father- the son, each had a part to play in their separation, and it was all very real life. Shades of gray galore.) But it wasn't the focus of the story, it was just a part of the characters backstory. The real focus to me was watching Jessica and Rick and Jessica's grandparents interact. I loved watching Rick with them just as much as I loved watching Jessica with them. It was so easy to see how much Rick cares for them.
Controlled Burn is a feel good romance. There is no ulterior motive, there is no huge secret looming, threatening to break them apart the second it is exposed, and that was refreshing for me to read. This was the story of two people coming together and making it work, just as much as it was a nice story about family. Sure, there were roadblocks and obstacles, but they were not what they are so many times in romances. I really, really enjoyed Controlled Burn. Plus, there are lots and lots of firefighters. Let's not forget about them.
Bottom line: Controlled Burn is great for readers that like family centric romances, that feel true to life. Plus points if you love grandparents and firefighters.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Beyond the Stars is a new adult contemporary romance from Entagled Embrace and debut author Stacy Wise. I think Embrace might be my very favorite imprint line from Entangled. All of their books just make me feel all the warm and fuzzies. Beyond the Stars was such a wonderful book. I really really loved it. It was the kind of book that not only made you lose track of time, but also being away from it makes you kind of jittery and distracted. (True story example: I had been reading Beyond the Stars for about 3 hours straight, and I was about 75% done with the book. My boyfriend called to chat and say goodnight, and I couldn't even concentrate on anything he was saying. I was more than a little rude when I rushed him off the phone because I wanted to get back to reading. I felt like I was going through Beyond the Stars withdrawal for the 10-15 minutes I spent on the phone with him! That is crazy. But that is how much I adored this book.)
Beyond the Stars is told entirely from Jessica's point of view, with the exception of the epilogue being Jack's POV. Although I thoroughly enjoyed Jessica's narrative, I would have loved to get some peeks into Jack's head throughout. I am a suck for a dual narrative in romances. I don't read a ton of celebrity/Hollywood type romances, but I am starting to think that needs to change because I enjoyed this one so much. I think what I loved most about this story was that it was a very slow burn romance. It gave us tons of time to get to know each of the characters and for them to get to know each other, without rushing into anything. It was perfection.
Even though the romance took place late in the book, the chemistry between Jessica and Jack was present throughout the entire story. It jumped off the pages. I want to read more about these two. I just love them to pieces. Jessica is spunky and a totally capable woman and Jack is so guarded and secretly vulnerable that you can't help but fall for him. The two of them together gave me all the feels. I cannot believe that this was author Stacy Wise's first book. I will be reading more from her. Of that, I am certain. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next.
Bottom line: Beyond the Stars has everything I love about contemporary romances: a realistic, slow burn romance, great characters, even better chemistry and dialogue, hints of jealousy and a satisfying romance that is sure to put you in a better mood than when you started the book. Beyond the Stars is a blockbuster hit in my book! Go read it now.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Beyond the Stars is a new adult contemporary romance from Entagled Embrace and debut author Stacy Wise. I think Embrace might be my very favorite imprint line from Entangled. All of their books just make me feel all the warm and fuzzies. Beyond the Stars was such a wonderful book. I really really loved it. It was the kind of book that not only made you lose track of time, but also being away from it makes you kind of jittery and distracted. (True story example: I had been reading Beyond the Stars for about 3 hours straight, and I was about 75% done with the book. My boyfriend called to chat and say goodnight, and I couldn't even concentrate on anything he was saying. I was more than a little rude when I rushed him off the phone because I wanted to get back to reading. I felt like I was going through Beyond the Stars withdrawal for the 10-15 minutes I spent on the phone with him! That is crazy. But that is how much I adored this book.)
Beyond the Stars is told entirely from Jessica's point of view, with the exception of the epilogue being Jack's POV. Although I thoroughly enjoyed Jessica's narrative, I would have loved to get some peeks into Jack's head throughout. I am a suck for a dual narrative in romances. I don't read a ton of celebrity/Hollywood type romances, but I am starting to think that needs to change because I enjoyed this one so much. I think what I loved most about this story was that it was a very slow burn romance. It gave us tons of time to get to know each of the characters and for them to get to know each other, without rushing into anything. It was perfection.
Even though the romance took place late in the book, the chemistry between Jessica and Jack was present throughout the entire story. It jumped off the pages. I want to read more about these two. I just love them to pieces. Jessica is spunky and a totally capable woman and Jack is so guarded and secretly vulnerable that you can't help but fall for him. The two of them together gave me all the feels. I cannot believe that this was author Stacy Wise's first book. I will be reading more from her. Of that, I am certain. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next.
Bottom line: Beyond the Stars has everything I love about contemporary romances: a realistic, slow burn romance, great characters, even better chemistry and dialogue, hints of jealousy and a satisfying romance that is sure to put you in a better mood than when you started the book. Beyond the Stars is a blockbuster hit in my book! Go read it now.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Until it's Right is a new adult contemporary romance by author Jamie Howard. I love the idea behind the plot of Until it's Right. Girl meets guy at bar. guy gives girl number. girl gets number wrong and starts a text romance with wrong number guy. Not to mention her real life romance/friendship with her cute coworker. And oh, yea, he also happens to be her wrong number texting buddy. It was just too cute of a concept to pass up. It screams romantic comedy to me. And Until it's Right turned out to be even better than I was expecting it to be. I instantly fell in love with Kyle and Haley. This book has top pick of 2015 written all over it.
Until it's Right is the kind of book that will give you book butterflies. You know what I mean, while you are reading you catch yourself smiling like an idiot, because the book is just so darn cute. The characters are just so darn cute and the whole story gives you all the warm and fuzzies. That is Until it's Right in a nutshell. Kyle is swoon-worthy and such a sweetheart. And Haley is a great gal. It made me sad that neither one of them realized their own potential. Each one thought that they didn't measure up in some way, and that is just a darn shame. Kyle takes the cake for me though. I am such a sucker for a nerdy guy. and watching Kyle freeze up every time he was around Haley was just about the cutest thing ever. I loved the line about the only words that were coming into his head at his disposal were "potato" and "monkey" after Hayley smiled at him. (see what I mean about the smiling and the warm and fuzzies?!)
The story unfolds in a kind of predictable manner, which was just what I wanted. (if you want more about how I feel about predictable books, check out my post on them here)There were a few surprises up author Jamie Howard's sleeves, but not anything that completely blindsided me. Much of the focus of the book was on Haley and Kyle and their various relationships. They were the stars, and it was fitting because the book was told in dual narrative between the two of them, with Haley chapters being just a bit more frequent than Kyle's
Bottom line: If you like new adult contemporary romances that are really really well done feel good books, this is a must read for you. It will have you smiling, laughing and will leave you in a better mood than when you started to read it. Until It's Right is the definition of a feel good romance to me. Read it!
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Until it's Right is a new adult contemporary romance by author Jamie Howard. I love the idea behind the plot of Until it's Right. Girl meets guy at bar. guy gives girl number. girl gets number wrong and starts a text romance with wrong number guy. Not to mention her real life romance/friendship with her cute coworker. And oh, yea, he also happens to be her wrong number texting buddy. It was just too cute of a concept to pass up. It screams romantic comedy to me. And Until it's Right turned out to be even better than I was expecting it to be. I instantly fell in love with Kyle and Haley. This book has top pick of 2015 written all over it.
Until it's Right is the kind of book that will give you book butterflies. You know what I mean, while you are reading you catch yourself smiling like an idiot, because the book is just so darn cute. The characters are just so darn cute and the whole story gives you all the warm and fuzzies. That is Until it's Right in a nutshell. Kyle is swoon-worthy and such a sweetheart. And Haley is a great gal. It made me sad that neither one of them realized their own potential. Each one thought that they didn't measure up in some way, and that is just a darn shame. Kyle takes the cake for me though. I am such a sucker for a nerdy guy. and watching Kyle freeze up every time he was around Haley was just about the cutest thing ever. I loved the line about the only words that were coming into his head at his disposal were "potato" and "monkey" after Hayley smiled at him. (see what I mean about the smiling and the warm and fuzzies?!)
The story unfolds in a kind of predictable manner, which was just what I wanted. (if you want more about how I feel about predictable books, check out my post on them here)There were a few surprises up author Jamie Howard's sleeves, but not anything that completely blindsided me. Much of the focus of the book was on Haley and Kyle and their various relationships. They were the stars, and it was fitting because the book was told in dual narrative between the two of them, with Haley chapters being just a bit more frequent than Kyle's
Bottom line: If you like new adult contemporary romances that are really really well done feel good books, this is a must read for you. It will have you smiling, laughing and will leave you in a better mood than when you started to read it. Until It's Right is the definition of a feel good romance to me. Read it!
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Man, oh Man did I start 2015 out with a bang. The Collectors' Society is such an amazing read. I want to read it over and over again. I loved this book so much. I just got done making my favorite books of 2014 list and I have already placed this one on my favorites of 2015 list. It is that good. You might have noticed that my last 3 or so reviews have been kind of meh on the positive end and even kind of negative. Well this one will not be. I don't think I will be able to convey how much I loved this book, or just how awesome I think it is. Just listen to the concept behind this book and you will see what I mean.
The Collectors' Society is a secret society comprised of characters from different book worlds, all coming together to "edit" themselves into different book universes to keep the books from being "deleted" by some mysterious bad guys. Come on! It sounds bad ass. I absolutely loved the characters, and the author picked such a unique variety of books. She picked her characters from all different time periods and genres, and it made for an interesting group. Some of their stories I had read and some of them I was less familiar with. I love Alice in Wonderland so I was very pleased to see so much of her story in the books. I loved the caterpillars wisdom and how much of an influence it had on Alice. And Alice herself is one of my favorite heroines. (the Alice in Heather Lyon's Collectors' Society, that is.) She is logical to a fault, but has a touch of whimsy to her, and she is a force to be reckoned with. I would not want to be in a fight against her.
The plot of the Collectors' Society is so fascinating. I was riveted to this book. And I loved how long and fleshed out the story felt. There is a lot of meat to this book. And I still didn't want it to end. I could have used another 600 pages and not gotten bored. I loved the plot of the stories just as much as I loved the romantic elements of the story. Finn is so swoon worthy and him with Alice, just gave me a perma-grin. I loved how understanding they each were. There was no drama for the sake of drama in this story. And trust me, that was perfect because even though the romance was easy, there were plenty of other dramatic elements to keep you on your toes while reading. And lots and lots of action.
I could go on and on about the people and things that I loved about the Collectors' Society, but to save you all some rambles, I will just add one more thing. I am dying to learn more about the Librarian of the society. She is one creepy, creepy lady. And I have no idea who she is. If you love classic literature, and you love fantasy and fairy tales, this is a must read book for you. Even if you don't and you like YA and new adult, this is also a must read. I am recommending this book to everyone. I can hardly wait for the next book to come out later this year.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Man, oh Man did I start 2015 out with a bang. The Collectors' Society is such an amazing read. I want to read it over and over again. I loved this book so much. I just got done making my favorite books of 2014 list and I have already placed this one on my favorites of 2015 list. It is that good. You might have noticed that my last 3 or so reviews have been kind of meh on the positive end and even kind of negative. Well this one will not be. I don't think I will be able to convey how much I loved this book, or just how awesome I think it is. Just listen to the concept behind this book and you will see what I mean.
The Collectors' Society is a secret society comprised of characters from different book worlds, all coming together to "edit" themselves into different book universes to keep the books from being "deleted" by some mysterious bad guys. Come on! It sounds bad ass. I absolutely loved the characters, and the author picked such a unique variety of books. She picked her characters from all different time periods and genres, and it made for an interesting group. Some of their stories I had read and some of them I was less familiar with. I love Alice in Wonderland so I was very pleased to see so much of her story in the books. I loved the caterpillars wisdom and how much of an influence it had on Alice. And Alice herself is one of my favorite heroines. (the Alice in Heather Lyon's Collectors' Society, that is.) She is logical to a fault, but has a touch of whimsy to her, and she is a force to be reckoned with. I would not want to be in a fight against her.
The plot of the Collectors' Society is so fascinating. I was riveted to this book. And I loved how long and fleshed out the story felt. There is a lot of meat to this book. And I still didn't want it to end. I could have used another 600 pages and not gotten bored. I loved the plot of the stories just as much as I loved the romantic elements of the story. Finn is so swoon worthy and him with Alice, just gave me a perma-grin. I loved how understanding they each were. There was no drama for the sake of drama in this story. And trust me, that was perfect because even though the romance was easy, there were plenty of other dramatic elements to keep you on your toes while reading. And lots and lots of action.
I could go on and on about the people and things that I loved about the Collectors' Society, but to save you all some rambles, I will just add one more thing. I am dying to learn more about the Librarian of the society. She is one creepy, creepy lady. And I have no idea who she is. If you love classic literature, and you love fantasy and fairy tales, this is a must read book for you. Even if you don't and you like YA and new adult, this is also a must read. I am recommending this book to everyone. I can hardly wait for the next book to come out later this year.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Lust is the second novel in the Allure Chronicles, a new adult paranormal romance series. Lust picks up right after Lure left off, with Daisy and Owen having just found each other and the bomb of what Daisy having allure essence in her really means. It was one doozy of an ending, but then again the end of Lust was also pretty gut wrenching. Alyssa why do you do this to me?? Ugh I just love her books so much. And the Allure Chronicles has to be one of my favorite series of hers.
I love all of the characters, not only just Daisy and Owen, but Violet and Roland have special places in my heart as well. I was kind of hoping that we would see more of Roland in this book. Not because I dislike Owen. I really love him, I am just also intrigued by Owen and his connection with Daisy. Luckily, I have a feeling that I will be seeing a lot more of him in the next book. Wink wink.
Lust takes all of the characters on a world-wind high speed journey to try and fix what is happening to Daisy. I won't go into too much more detail about what exactly is happening because I love all the Allure history and characteristics Alyssa Rose Ivy explains in Lust. Things that I so want them to fix or find a workaround from because I love Daisy and Owens connection. I think there is something so pure and innocent about their feelings and the way they treat one another. I know that seems strange given everything you know about the series- the titles, the covers and the series name, but it is true! haha, they are just too cute together.
Another exciting moment in Lust for me, was when mention of Energo was made! Alyssa, you master you. (for those of you new to Alyssa's books, Energo is a land in another two of her series- the Forged Chronicles and the Afterglow Trilogy.) All of her series and worlds are coming together and linking up! I absolutely love it. I want to see some kind of chart or map made of all of Alyssa's series lands and the creatures that live there. Someone please make that!
Fans of New Adult paranormal romance need to read the Allure Chronicles. And it is great series to start with if you are new to Alyssa's works because it touches so many of her other series. Start with this one and then move off to any of the numerous other series that overlap. Comment below if you want suggestions for reading order, or more information about the other series. This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Lust is the second novel in the Allure Chronicles, a new adult paranormal romance series. Lust picks up right after Lure left off, with Daisy and Owen having just found each other and the bomb of what Daisy having allure essence in her really means. It was one doozy of an ending, but then again the end of Lust was also pretty gut wrenching. Alyssa why do you do this to me?? Ugh I just love her books so much. And the Allure Chronicles has to be one of my favorite series of hers.
I love all of the characters, not only just Daisy and Owen, but Violet and Roland have special places in my heart as well. I was kind of hoping that we would see more of Roland in this book. Not because I dislike Owen. I really love him, I am just also intrigued by Owen and his connection with Daisy. Luckily, I have a feeling that I will be seeing a lot more of him in the next book. Wink wink.
Lust takes all of the characters on a world-wind high speed journey to try and fix what is happening to Daisy. I won't go into too much more detail about what exactly is happening because I love all the Allure history and characteristics Alyssa Rose Ivy explains in Lust. Things that I so want them to fix or find a workaround from because I love Daisy and Owens connection. I think there is something so pure and innocent about their feelings and the way they treat one another. I know that seems strange given everything you know about the series- the titles, the covers and the series name, but it is true! haha, they are just too cute together.
Another exciting moment in Lust for me, was when mention of Energo was made! Alyssa, you master you. (for those of you new to Alyssa's books, Energo is a land in another two of her series- the Forged Chronicles and the Afterglow Trilogy.) All of her series and worlds are coming together and linking up! I absolutely love it. I want to see some kind of chart or map made of all of Alyssa's series lands and the creatures that live there. Someone please make that!
Fans of New Adult paranormal romance need to read the Allure Chronicles. And it is great series to start with if you are new to Alyssa's works because it touches so many of her other series. Start with this one and then move off to any of the numerous other series that overlap. Comment below if you want suggestions for reading order, or more information about the other series. This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
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**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
4.5/5
The Dreamer is the first book in a new, New Adult fantasy series, called the Dreamland Series. I loved this book. I found it to be well written, fresh, engaging and really creative. I loved the world within a world that Author E.J. Mellow created. The book starts out by Molly getting struck by lightening and ending up in the hospital. I thought it was funny that the doctor made an offhand comment that she might experience some weird dreams, which then sets off the whole rest of the story.
Because Molly does experience some weird dreams. Dreams that have her questioning what is real and what isn't. Molly gets transported to the same, very strange looking world in each of her dreams. A world where she is a special person called a dreamer, and that she might just play a pivotal role in their society and survival. I don't want to tell you much more than that because I loved the way E.J. Mellow painted the picture. She did a fantastic job with her world building, and I want you to experience terra sominum (can't remember the spelling, and can't find it in my kindle) for yourself.
And for my romance fans out there- you need to read the Dreamer. I love Dev and Molly so much. That is also the only reason that I knocked 1/2 star off. Because of Molly's "real-life" boyfriend. Who is also very nice (kind of like Dean in Gilmore Girls. He was nice, but kind of boring, when put next to Rory's other choices.) And it is really, really hard to compare to Dev. I want the other guy out of the picture completely, and until that happens I will be a little sad. I hope to see lots more Molly and Dev in the next book.
And speaking of the next book, I already know it is going to be epic and action packed. So what does that mean for you? You need to read the Dreamer ASAP. This is a great find as a favorite series for me. I can't wait for the next book. I want it in my hands right now!
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
4.5/5
The Dreamer is the first book in a new, New Adult fantasy series, called the Dreamland Series. I loved this book. I found it to be well written, fresh, engaging and really creative. I loved the world within a world that Author E.J. Mellow created. The book starts out by Molly getting struck by lightening and ending up in the hospital. I thought it was funny that the doctor made an offhand comment that she might experience some weird dreams, which then sets off the whole rest of the story.
Because Molly does experience some weird dreams. Dreams that have her questioning what is real and what isn't. Molly gets transported to the same, very strange looking world in each of her dreams. A world where she is a special person called a dreamer, and that she might just play a pivotal role in their society and survival. I don't want to tell you much more than that because I loved the way E.J. Mellow painted the picture. She did a fantastic job with her world building, and I want you to experience terra sominum (can't remember the spelling, and can't find it in my kindle) for yourself.
And for my romance fans out there- you need to read the Dreamer. I love Dev and Molly so much. That is also the only reason that I knocked 1/2 star off. Because of Molly's "real-life" boyfriend. Who is also very nice (kind of like Dean in Gilmore Girls. He was nice, but kind of boring, when put next to Rory's other choices.) And it is really, really hard to compare to Dev. I want the other guy out of the picture completely, and until that happens I will be a little sad. I hope to see lots more Molly and Dev in the next book.
And speaking of the next book, I already know it is going to be epic and action packed. So what does that mean for you? You need to read the Dreamer ASAP. This is a great find as a favorite series for me. I can't wait for the next book. I want it in my hands right now!
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs