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popthebutterfly
Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Author: L. Penelope
Book Series: Earthsinger Chronicles Book 2
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: October 1, 2019
Genre: YA Fantasy
Recommended Age: 16+ (romance, some violence, some gore)
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Synopsis:The Mantle that separates the kingdoms of Elsira and Lagrimar is about to fall. And life will drastically change for both kingdoms.
Born with a deadly magic she cannot control, Kyara is forced to become an assassin. Known as the Poison Flame in the kingdom of Lagrimar, she is notorious and lethal, but secretly seeks freedom from both her untamed power and the blood spell that commands her. She is tasked with capturing the legendary rebel called the Shadowfox, but everything changes when she learns her target’s true identity.
Darvyn ol-Tahlyro may be the most powerful Earthsinger in generations, but guilt over those he couldn’t save tortures him daily. He isn’t sure he can trust the mysterious young woman who claims to need his help, but when he discovers Kyara can unlock the secrets of his past, he can’t stay away.
Kyara and Darvyn grapple with betrayal, old promises, and older prophecies—all while trying to stop a war. And when a new threat emerges, they must beat the odds to save both kingdoms.
Review:I thought this was a really cool concept to continue the story with two new characters. I thought they had really good development and the story continued well. The plot was better and the pacing was great too! I devoured this book as well.
My only issue is the romance (again, personal preference) and that it ends on a cliffhanger! I might need to buy the third!
Verdict: So great! Definitely recommend.
Author: L. Penelope
Book Series: Earthsinger Chronicles Book 2
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: October 1, 2019
Genre: YA Fantasy
Recommended Age: 16+ (romance, some violence, some gore)
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Synopsis:The Mantle that separates the kingdoms of Elsira and Lagrimar is about to fall. And life will drastically change for both kingdoms.
Born with a deadly magic she cannot control, Kyara is forced to become an assassin. Known as the Poison Flame in the kingdom of Lagrimar, she is notorious and lethal, but secretly seeks freedom from both her untamed power and the blood spell that commands her. She is tasked with capturing the legendary rebel called the Shadowfox, but everything changes when she learns her target’s true identity.
Darvyn ol-Tahlyro may be the most powerful Earthsinger in generations, but guilt over those he couldn’t save tortures him daily. He isn’t sure he can trust the mysterious young woman who claims to need his help, but when he discovers Kyara can unlock the secrets of his past, he can’t stay away.
Kyara and Darvyn grapple with betrayal, old promises, and older prophecies—all while trying to stop a war. And when a new threat emerges, they must beat the odds to save both kingdoms.
Review:I thought this was a really cool concept to continue the story with two new characters. I thought they had really good development and the story continued well. The plot was better and the pacing was great too! I devoured this book as well.
My only issue is the romance (again, personal preference) and that it ends on a cliffhanger! I might need to buy the third!
Verdict: So great! Definitely recommend.
Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Author: Shamim Sarif
Book Series: Standalone for now
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: October 8, 2019
Genre: YA Action
Recommended Age: 17+ (human trafficking, gore, violence)
Publisher: HarperTeen
Synopsis:Jessie Archer is a member of the Athena Protocol, an elite organization of female spies who enact vigilante justice around the world.
Athena operatives are never supposed to shoot to kill—so when Jessie can’t stop herself from pulling the trigger, she gets kicked out of the organization, right before a huge mission to take down a human trafficker in Belgrade.
Jessie needs to right her wrong and prove herself, so she starts her own investigation into the trafficking. But going rogue means she has no one to watch her back as she delves into the horrors she uncovers. Meanwhile, her former teammates have been ordered to bring her down. Jessie must face danger from all sides if she’s to complete her mission—and survive.
Review: Holy crap this book was fantastic! Like Kim Possible but more awesome and way more adult. The book does amazing at character development and building relationships between the characters instead of just relying on history. The book has a solid romance and I engulfed it in one sitting!
My only issue is that this is for much more mature audiences and it discusses things that are horrific in real life. The book feels like an adult novel, but I don't think that should deter anyone, especially teens, from reading this.
Verdict: Definitely check this one out!
Author: Shamim Sarif
Book Series: Standalone for now
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: October 8, 2019
Genre: YA Action
Recommended Age: 17+ (human trafficking, gore, violence)
Publisher: HarperTeen
Synopsis:Jessie Archer is a member of the Athena Protocol, an elite organization of female spies who enact vigilante justice around the world.
Athena operatives are never supposed to shoot to kill—so when Jessie can’t stop herself from pulling the trigger, she gets kicked out of the organization, right before a huge mission to take down a human trafficker in Belgrade.
Jessie needs to right her wrong and prove herself, so she starts her own investigation into the trafficking. But going rogue means she has no one to watch her back as she delves into the horrors she uncovers. Meanwhile, her former teammates have been ordered to bring her down. Jessie must face danger from all sides if she’s to complete her mission—and survive.
Review: Holy crap this book was fantastic! Like Kim Possible but more awesome and way more adult. The book does amazing at character development and building relationships between the characters instead of just relying on history. The book has a solid romance and I engulfed it in one sitting!
My only issue is that this is for much more mature audiences and it discusses things that are horrific in real life. The book feels like an adult novel, but I don't think that should deter anyone, especially teens, from reading this.
Verdict: Definitely check this one out!
Disclaimer: I bought this book! Support your authors!
Book Series: Serpent and Dove Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: September 3, 2019
Genre: YA Fantasy
Recommended Age: 16+ (violence, TW for cutting, language, gore, romance, and a sex scene)
Publisher: HarperTeen
Pages: 519
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Bound as one to love, honor, or burn.
Two years ago, Louise le Blanc fled her coven and took shelter in the city of Cesarine, forsaking all magic and living off whatever she could steal. There, witches like Lou are hunted. They are feared. And they are burned.
Sworn to the Church as a Chasseur, Reid Diggory has lived his life by one principle: thou shalt not suffer a witch to live. His path was never meant to cross with Lou's, but a wicked stunt forces them into an impossible union—holy matrimony.
The war between witches and Church is an ancient one, and Lou's most dangerous enemies bring a fate worse than fire. Unable to ignore her growing feelings, yet powerless to change what she is, a choice must be made.
And love makes fools of us all.
Review: Overall, I thought this book was great. The plot was intriguing, the magic system was amazingly well done, and the world building was magnificient.
However, I had issues with this book. While I thought it was amazing, the opening takes forever to get into. The book doesn't explain anything at first, it just jumps into the narrative, and while this isn't a bad thing, it means that your audience is confused and frustrated. The book also has a problem where it relies on the blurb to tell you a bit of the back story, especially for the beginning bits. I don't like that a book can't stand without it's blurb, it shouldn't be needed in telling the story.
Verdict: It was great, but confusing.
Book Series: Serpent and Dove Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: September 3, 2019
Genre: YA Fantasy
Recommended Age: 16+ (violence, TW for cutting, language, gore, romance, and a sex scene)
Publisher: HarperTeen
Pages: 519
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Bound as one to love, honor, or burn.
Two years ago, Louise le Blanc fled her coven and took shelter in the city of Cesarine, forsaking all magic and living off whatever she could steal. There, witches like Lou are hunted. They are feared. And they are burned.
Sworn to the Church as a Chasseur, Reid Diggory has lived his life by one principle: thou shalt not suffer a witch to live. His path was never meant to cross with Lou's, but a wicked stunt forces them into an impossible union—holy matrimony.
The war between witches and Church is an ancient one, and Lou's most dangerous enemies bring a fate worse than fire. Unable to ignore her growing feelings, yet powerless to change what she is, a choice must be made.
And love makes fools of us all.
Review: Overall, I thought this book was great. The plot was intriguing, the magic system was amazingly well done, and the world building was magnificient.
However, I had issues with this book. While I thought it was amazing, the opening takes forever to get into. The book doesn't explain anything at first, it just jumps into the narrative, and while this isn't a bad thing, it means that your audience is confused and frustrated. The book also has a problem where it relies on the blurb to tell you a bit of the back story, especially for the beginning bits. I don't like that a book can't stand without it's blurb, it shouldn't be needed in telling the story.
Verdict: It was great, but confusing.
Disclaimer: I bought this book! Support your authors!
Author: Victoria Schwab
Book Series: Cassidy Blake Book 2
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: September 3, 2019
Genre: MG Fantasy
Recommended Age: 10+ (poltergeists and some scary moments)
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Pages: 304
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Trouble is haunting Cassidy Blake . . . even more than usual.
She (plus her ghost best friend, Jacob, of course) are in Paris, where Cass's parents are filming their TV show about the world's most haunted cities. Sure, it's fun eating croissants and seeing the Eiffel Tower, but there's true ghostly danger lurking beneath Paris, in the creepy underground Catacombs.
When Cass accidentally awakens a frighteningly strong spirit, she must rely on her still-growing skills as a ghosthunter -- and turn to friends both old and new to help her unravel a mystery. But time is running out, and the spirit is only growing stronger.
And if Cass fails, the force she's unleashed could haunt the city forever.
Review: Oh. My. God. I fell in love with this book! I love this series so much and it was awesome to see Cassidy back! I love that we got more character development from her and Jacob and we got more insight into his backstory. I loved the writing and I felt that the pacing was well done as well.
My only issue is that I need the third book. Like now.
Verdict: This is more addicting than girl scout cookies.
Author: Victoria Schwab
Book Series: Cassidy Blake Book 2
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: September 3, 2019
Genre: MG Fantasy
Recommended Age: 10+ (poltergeists and some scary moments)
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Pages: 304
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Trouble is haunting Cassidy Blake . . . even more than usual.
She (plus her ghost best friend, Jacob, of course) are in Paris, where Cass's parents are filming their TV show about the world's most haunted cities. Sure, it's fun eating croissants and seeing the Eiffel Tower, but there's true ghostly danger lurking beneath Paris, in the creepy underground Catacombs.
When Cass accidentally awakens a frighteningly strong spirit, she must rely on her still-growing skills as a ghosthunter -- and turn to friends both old and new to help her unravel a mystery. But time is running out, and the spirit is only growing stronger.
And if Cass fails, the force she's unleashed could haunt the city forever.
Review: Oh. My. God. I fell in love with this book! I love this series so much and it was awesome to see Cassidy back! I love that we got more character development from her and Jacob and we got more insight into his backstory. I loved the writing and I felt that the pacing was well done as well.
My only issue is that I need the third book. Like now.
Verdict: This is more addicting than girl scout cookies.
Disclaimer: I recieved this book from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Author: Karen Rivers
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: October 15, 2019
Genre: MG Fantasy
Recommended Age: 10+ (little violence and a little bit of being a hero)
Publisher: Algonquin Young Readers
Pages: 304
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Can Kit’s super-weird superpower save her world?
Kit-with-a-small-k is navigating middle school with a really big, really strange secret: When she’s stressed, she turns into a naked mole rat.
It first happened after kit watched her best friend, Clem, fall and get hurt during an acrobatic performance on TV. Since then, the transformations keep happening—whether kit wants them to or not. Kit can’t tell Clem about it, because after the fall, Clem just hasn’t been herself. She’s sad and mad and gloomy, and keeping a secret of her own: the real reason she fell.
A year after the accident, kit and Clem still haven’t figured out how to deal with all the ways they have transformed—both inside and out. When their secrets come between them, the best friends get into a big fight. Somehow, kit has to save the day, but she doesn’t believe she can be that kind of hero. Turning into a naked mole rat isn’t really a superpower. Or is it?
Review: I thought this was a cute book! The concept behind it was intriguing and overall it was absolutely adorable! The characters were developed and had great interaction with each other and I think it was a great coming of age story!
My only issue is that the pacing was really slow and it's hard to get into at first.
Verdict: Super cute and cool!
Author: Karen Rivers
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: October 15, 2019
Genre: MG Fantasy
Recommended Age: 10+ (little violence and a little bit of being a hero)
Publisher: Algonquin Young Readers
Pages: 304
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Can Kit’s super-weird superpower save her world?
Kit-with-a-small-k is navigating middle school with a really big, really strange secret: When she’s stressed, she turns into a naked mole rat.
It first happened after kit watched her best friend, Clem, fall and get hurt during an acrobatic performance on TV. Since then, the transformations keep happening—whether kit wants them to or not. Kit can’t tell Clem about it, because after the fall, Clem just hasn’t been herself. She’s sad and mad and gloomy, and keeping a secret of her own: the real reason she fell.
A year after the accident, kit and Clem still haven’t figured out how to deal with all the ways they have transformed—both inside and out. When their secrets come between them, the best friends get into a big fight. Somehow, kit has to save the day, but she doesn’t believe she can be that kind of hero. Turning into a naked mole rat isn’t really a superpower. Or is it?
Review: I thought this was a cute book! The concept behind it was intriguing and overall it was absolutely adorable! The characters were developed and had great interaction with each other and I think it was a great coming of age story!
My only issue is that the pacing was really slow and it's hard to get into at first.
Verdict: Super cute and cool!
Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Author: Julia Drake
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Main is bisexual, one of the female characters is straight but then goes into a F/F relationship
Publication Date: October 1, 2019
Genre: YA Contemporary
Recommended Age: 17+ (TW suicide mentioning and possible food control/anorexia/bullimia)
Publisher: Disney Hyperion
Pages: 400
Amazon Link
Synopsis: The Larkin family isn't just lucky—they persevere. At least that's what Violet and her younger brother, Sam, were always told. When the Lyric sank off the coast of Maine, their great-great-great-grandmother didn't drown like the rest of the passengers. No, Fidelia swam to shore, fell in love, and founded Lyric, Maine, the town Violet and Sam returned to every summer.
But wrecks seem to run in the family. Tall, funny, musical Violet can't stop partying with the wrong people. And, one beautiful summer day, brilliant, sensitive Sam attempts to take his own life.
Shipped back to Lyric while Sam is in treatment, Violet is haunted by her family's missing piece - the lost shipwreck she and Sam dreamed of discovering when they were children. Desperate to make amends, Violet embarks on a wildly ambitious mission: locate the Lyric, lain hidden in a watery grave for over a century.
She finds a fellow wreck hunter in Liv Stone, an amateur local historian whose sparkling intelligence and guarded gray eyes make Violet ache in an exhilarating new way. Whether or not they find the Lyric, the journey Violet takes-and the bridges she builds along the way-may be the start of something like survival.
Review: I am so perplexed by this book. I loved the writing, I loved the character development, and I loved how the author made something so complex but simple at the same time. I love the world building and the relationships between the family members.
However, I feel like the plot of the story isn't there? Like it felt like a lot of the story was circular and the pacing was super slow and nothing really happened, but yet I liked it and I felt like we were getting somewhere? I don't know, this was a trip lol.
Verdict: I definitely believe this is worth the read.
Author: Julia Drake
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Main is bisexual, one of the female characters is straight but then goes into a F/F relationship
Publication Date: October 1, 2019
Genre: YA Contemporary
Recommended Age: 17+ (TW suicide mentioning and possible food control/anorexia/bullimia)
Publisher: Disney Hyperion
Pages: 400
Amazon Link
Synopsis: The Larkin family isn't just lucky—they persevere. At least that's what Violet and her younger brother, Sam, were always told. When the Lyric sank off the coast of Maine, their great-great-great-grandmother didn't drown like the rest of the passengers. No, Fidelia swam to shore, fell in love, and founded Lyric, Maine, the town Violet and Sam returned to every summer.
But wrecks seem to run in the family. Tall, funny, musical Violet can't stop partying with the wrong people. And, one beautiful summer day, brilliant, sensitive Sam attempts to take his own life.
Shipped back to Lyric while Sam is in treatment, Violet is haunted by her family's missing piece - the lost shipwreck she and Sam dreamed of discovering when they were children. Desperate to make amends, Violet embarks on a wildly ambitious mission: locate the Lyric, lain hidden in a watery grave for over a century.
She finds a fellow wreck hunter in Liv Stone, an amateur local historian whose sparkling intelligence and guarded gray eyes make Violet ache in an exhilarating new way. Whether or not they find the Lyric, the journey Violet takes-and the bridges she builds along the way-may be the start of something like survival.
Review: I am so perplexed by this book. I loved the writing, I loved the character development, and I loved how the author made something so complex but simple at the same time. I love the world building and the relationships between the family members.
However, I feel like the plot of the story isn't there? Like it felt like a lot of the story was circular and the pacing was super slow and nothing really happened, but yet I liked it and I felt like we were getting somewhere? I don't know, this was a trip lol.
Verdict: I definitely believe this is worth the read.
Disclaimer: I bought this book on my own! Support your authors!
Author: Margaret Atwood
Book Series: The Handmaid's Tale Book 2
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: September 10, 2019
Genre: Feminist
Recommended Age: 18+ (oh boy where do I begin? Suicide, attempted suicide, car bombings, terrorism, TW cutting, gore, violence, TW mentions of rape, TW actual rape/sexual assault, some romance, lots of death, and escaping to Canada is scary yo!)
Publisher: Nan A. Talese
Synopsis: In this brilliant sequel to The Handmaid's Tale, acclaimed author Margaret Atwood answers the questions that have tantalized readers for decades.
When the van door slammed on Offred's future at the end of The Handmaid's Tale, readers had no way of telling what lay ahead for her--freedom, prison or death.
With The Testaments, the wait is over.
Margaret Atwood's sequel picks up the story more than fifteen years after Offred stepped into the unknown, with the explosive testaments of three female narrators from Gilead.
"Dear Readers: Everything you've ever asked me about Gilead and its inner workings is the inspiration for this book. Well, almost everything! The other inspiration is the world we've been living in." --Margaret Atwood
Review:The Handmaid's Tale is one of those books that I consider a must read. It brilliantly describes, with somewhat eery similarity, what could happen to women. Rights in any country are fragile and any upset could destroy them and that book served as a reminder of that. This book is like a slap to your face, a wake-up call if you want to call it. It further details the horrors women in this universe face, 3 women who are not Handmaids but are in a different status. The character development is amazing and well done. The world building is magnificent. The plot is intriguing and the story just sucks you in and refuses to let you go until you read it in full.
However, I do have to admit this book is a really hard book to read. It's not because the author uses big words or complex thought patterns, but it's the subject matter. It's hard, as a woman, to realize that tomorrow I could wake up in a world like this. And it's harder to imagine what I would do. While I believe I would be relatively okay, I worry about those who wouldn't be.
Verdict: It's a hard but important read.
Author: Margaret Atwood
Book Series: The Handmaid's Tale Book 2
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: September 10, 2019
Genre: Feminist
Recommended Age: 18+ (oh boy where do I begin? Suicide, attempted suicide, car bombings, terrorism, TW cutting, gore, violence, TW mentions of rape, TW actual rape/sexual assault, some romance, lots of death, and escaping to Canada is scary yo!)
Publisher: Nan A. Talese
Synopsis: In this brilliant sequel to The Handmaid's Tale, acclaimed author Margaret Atwood answers the questions that have tantalized readers for decades.
When the van door slammed on Offred's future at the end of The Handmaid's Tale, readers had no way of telling what lay ahead for her--freedom, prison or death.
With The Testaments, the wait is over.
Margaret Atwood's sequel picks up the story more than fifteen years after Offred stepped into the unknown, with the explosive testaments of three female narrators from Gilead.
"Dear Readers: Everything you've ever asked me about Gilead and its inner workings is the inspiration for this book. Well, almost everything! The other inspiration is the world we've been living in." --Margaret Atwood
Review:The Handmaid's Tale is one of those books that I consider a must read. It brilliantly describes, with somewhat eery similarity, what could happen to women. Rights in any country are fragile and any upset could destroy them and that book served as a reminder of that. This book is like a slap to your face, a wake-up call if you want to call it. It further details the horrors women in this universe face, 3 women who are not Handmaids but are in a different status. The character development is amazing and well done. The world building is magnificent. The plot is intriguing and the story just sucks you in and refuses to let you go until you read it in full.
However, I do have to admit this book is a really hard book to read. It's not because the author uses big words or complex thought patterns, but it's the subject matter. It's hard, as a woman, to realize that tomorrow I could wake up in a world like this. And it's harder to imagine what I would do. While I believe I would be relatively okay, I worry about those who wouldn't be.
Verdict: It's a hard but important read.
Disclaimer: I received a free book from Disney BUT I also got my pre-order my sweet hubby bought for me on the same date. Yay! Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Author: Jen Calonita
Book Series: Twisted Tales Book 7
Rating: 4.5/5
Publication Date: October 1, 2019
Genre: YA Retelling
Recommended Age: 14+ (some violence, some romance, Hans)
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Synopsis: What if Anna and Elsa never knew each other?
When a magical accident erases Anna and Elsa's memories not only of magic, but of each other the sisters are separated for protection. But when Elsa unexpectedly finds herself as a young queen mysterious magic begins to happen and questions of her past start to form. Will the sisters ever be reunited?
Review:
#bookies?
*knock knock kn-knock*
Do you wanna read a review???
C'mon sit down and see.
I really really liked this book.
And I thought that I
should tell youuuuu
This book is kinda fun
It makes puns
And references to Frozen galoreee
Do you wanna know my thoughtssss
It doesn't have to be right nowww
Everyone: Go away Paige
Me: Okay byeeee
.....
Do you wanna read a review??
Why are you still reading?
The character development is really good.
It's very superb and lovely too.
And so is the writing too!
Although it gets a little slow
In the middle
Just waiting for them to meet.
(read-turn-read-turn-read-turn-read-turn)
.....
Readers, please know that while I thought
that the original story was better
It doesn't mean I hate this book
I think it was great
Just let me explain
They only have each other
And I cried a little
Because the parents always dieeeeee
Did you read my review?
Now let's go build a snowman.
Verdict: I really liked this book and I think that you will too! Definitely check it out!
Author: Jen Calonita
Book Series: Twisted Tales Book 7
Rating: 4.5/5
Publication Date: October 1, 2019
Genre: YA Retelling
Recommended Age: 14+ (some violence, some romance, Hans)
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Synopsis: What if Anna and Elsa never knew each other?
When a magical accident erases Anna and Elsa's memories not only of magic, but of each other the sisters are separated for protection. But when Elsa unexpectedly finds herself as a young queen mysterious magic begins to happen and questions of her past start to form. Will the sisters ever be reunited?
Review:
#bookies?
*knock knock kn-knock*
Do you wanna read a review???
C'mon sit down and see.
I really really liked this book.
And I thought that I
should tell youuuuu
This book is kinda fun
It makes puns
And references to Frozen galoreee
Do you wanna know my thoughtssss
It doesn't have to be right nowww
Everyone: Go away Paige
Me: Okay byeeee
.....
Do you wanna read a review??
Why are you still reading?
The character development is really good.
It's very superb and lovely too.
And so is the writing too!
Although it gets a little slow
In the middle
Just waiting for them to meet.
(read-turn-read-turn-read-turn-read-turn)
.....
Readers, please know that while I thought
that the original story was better
It doesn't mean I hate this book
I think it was great
Just let me explain
They only have each other
And I cried a little
Because the parents always dieeeeee
Did you read my review?
Now let's go build a snowman.
Verdict: I really liked this book and I think that you will too! Definitely check it out!
Disclaimer: I reiceved this book from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Author: Candice Montgomery
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: October 8, 2019
Diversity: Gay MC and a M/M relationship
Genre: YA Contemporary
Recommended Age: 15+ (romance, bees, and idenity)
Publisher: Page Street
Synopsis: An honest reflection on cultural identify, class, and gentrification. Fans of Nic Stone and Elizabeth Acevedo will eagerly anticipate Torrey.
On the day Torrey officially becomes a college freshman, he gets a call that might force him to drop out before he’s even made it through orientation: the bee farm his beloved uncle Miles left him after his tragic death is being foreclosed on.
Torrey would love nothing more than to leave behind the family and neighborhood that’s bleeding him dry. But he still feels compelled to care for the project of his uncle’s heart. As the farm heads for auction, Torrey precariously balances choosing a major and texting Gabriel—the first boy he ever kissed—with the fight to stop his uncle’s legacy from being demolished. But as notice letters pile up and lawyers appear at his dorm, dividing himself between family and future becomes impossible unless he sacrifices a part of himself.
Review:I absolutely loved this book! It was damn cute and so unapologetic. I loved the writing, I loved the character development, I loved how the main character had mostly female help. Also I loved how the romance was helpful and not hindering to the main character and how it helped the main character grow instead of delay it.
My only complaint is that sometimes the pacing is a bit slow and I think I could have used a bit more world building but that's just for my personal taste.
Verdict: This was a truly magnificent book and I can't recommend it enough!
Author: Candice Montgomery
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: October 8, 2019
Diversity: Gay MC and a M/M relationship
Genre: YA Contemporary
Recommended Age: 15+ (romance, bees, and idenity)
Publisher: Page Street
Synopsis: An honest reflection on cultural identify, class, and gentrification. Fans of Nic Stone and Elizabeth Acevedo will eagerly anticipate Torrey.
On the day Torrey officially becomes a college freshman, he gets a call that might force him to drop out before he’s even made it through orientation: the bee farm his beloved uncle Miles left him after his tragic death is being foreclosed on.
Torrey would love nothing more than to leave behind the family and neighborhood that’s bleeding him dry. But he still feels compelled to care for the project of his uncle’s heart. As the farm heads for auction, Torrey precariously balances choosing a major and texting Gabriel—the first boy he ever kissed—with the fight to stop his uncle’s legacy from being demolished. But as notice letters pile up and lawyers appear at his dorm, dividing himself between family and future becomes impossible unless he sacrifices a part of himself.
Review:I absolutely loved this book! It was damn cute and so unapologetic. I loved the writing, I loved the character development, I loved how the main character had mostly female help. Also I loved how the romance was helpful and not hindering to the main character and how it helped the main character grow instead of delay it.
My only complaint is that sometimes the pacing is a bit slow and I think I could have used a bit more world building but that's just for my personal taste.
Verdict: This was a truly magnificent book and I can't recommend it enough!
adventurous
emotional
informative
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Disclaimer: I bought this book! Support your authors!
Book: The Fire Keeper
Author: J.C. Cervantes
Book Series: The Storm Runner Book 2
Diversity: Disabled and Mayan descendant mc and Mayan side characters, Absence seizure character
Rating: 5/5
Recommended For...: Middle Grade readers, fantasy, mythology, Mayan lore
Genre: MG Fantasy
Publication Date: September 3, 2019
Publisher: Rick Riordan Presents
Pages: 410
Recommended Age: 10+ (Parent death mentioned, Death, Gore, Violence, Torture, scary moments, Hell)
Explanation of CWs: There's a lot more fighting in this book than book 1 and death and torture are fairly big components of this book. There's also a lot of scary moments, so just judge for yourself if your young child wants to read it.
Synopsis: Zane Obispo's new life on a beautiful secluded tropical island, complete with his family and closest friends, should be perfect. But he can't control his newfound fire skills yet (inherited from his father, the Maya god Hurakan); there's a painful rift between him and his dog ever since she became a hell hound; and he doesn't know what to do with his feelings for Brooks. One day he discovers that by writing the book about his misadventures with the Maya gods, he unintentionally put other godborn children at risk. Unless Zane can find the godborns before the gods do, they will be killed. To make matters worse, Zane learns that Hurakan is scheduled to be executed. Zane knows he must rescue him, no matter the cost. Can he accomplish both tasks without the gods detecting him, or will he end up a permanent resident of the underworld? In this cleverly plotted sequel to The Storm Runner, the gang is back together again with spirited new characters, sneaky gods, Aztec royalty, unlikely alliances, and secrets darker than Zane could ever have imagined. Secrets that will change him forever.
Review: I really liked this book the second time around. I really love the character development and how the story toes that line between scary and funny. The world building is amazing, the writing is fantastic, and I absolutely love the mythology behind this book.
The only thing I got confused on was the plot. It's a bit too big for the book and there's a lot of loose strings at the end, but that makes me more excited to move onto book 3.
Verdict: It's amazing!
Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Author: J.C Cervantes
Book Series: The Storm Runner Book 2
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: September 3, 2019
Recommended Age: 12+ (some scary scenes and some violence and gore)
Genre: MG Fantasy
Publisher: Rick Riordan
Synopsis: Zane Obispo's new life on a beautiful secluded tropical island, complete with his family and closest friends, should be perfect. But he can't control his newfound fire skills yet (inherited from his father, the Maya god Hurakan); there's a painful rift between him and his dog ever since she became a hell hound; and he doesn't know what to do with his feelings for Brooks. One day he discovers that by writing the book about his misadventures with the Maya gods, he unintentionally put other godborn children at risk. Unless Zane can find the godborns before the gods do, they will be killed. To make matters worse, Zane learns that Hurakan is scheduled to be executed. Zane knows he must rescue him, no matter the cost. Can he accomplish both tasks without the gods detecting him, or will he end up a permanent resident of the underworld?
In this cleverly plotted sequel to The Storm Runner, the gang is back together again with spirited new characters, sneaky gods, unlikely alliances, and secrets darker than Zane could ever have imagined. Secrets that will change him forever.
Review: This book was my favorite last year and this book is one of my faves this year! I loved to see Zane's story continue, I think there's something so enduring about him and his trials that I get so emotionally attached to him. I love the writing, the character development, and how well new characters are quickly developed as well.
My only issue is the pacing. I felt that the beginning was super slow and it took a bit for me to get into, but after that I was all in for it.
Verdict: Definitely recommend it!
Book: The Fire Keeper
Author: J.C. Cervantes
Book Series: The Storm Runner Book 2
Diversity: Disabled and Mayan descendant mc and Mayan side characters, Absence seizure character
Rating: 5/5
Recommended For...: Middle Grade readers, fantasy, mythology, Mayan lore
Genre: MG Fantasy
Publication Date: September 3, 2019
Publisher: Rick Riordan Presents
Pages: 410
Recommended Age: 10+ (Parent death mentioned, Death, Gore, Violence, Torture, scary moments, Hell)
Explanation of CWs: There's a lot more fighting in this book than book 1 and death and torture are fairly big components of this book. There's also a lot of scary moments, so just judge for yourself if your young child wants to read it.
Synopsis: Zane Obispo's new life on a beautiful secluded tropical island, complete with his family and closest friends, should be perfect. But he can't control his newfound fire skills yet (inherited from his father, the Maya god Hurakan); there's a painful rift between him and his dog ever since she became a hell hound; and he doesn't know what to do with his feelings for Brooks. One day he discovers that by writing the book about his misadventures with the Maya gods, he unintentionally put other godborn children at risk. Unless Zane can find the godborns before the gods do, they will be killed. To make matters worse, Zane learns that Hurakan is scheduled to be executed. Zane knows he must rescue him, no matter the cost. Can he accomplish both tasks without the gods detecting him, or will he end up a permanent resident of the underworld? In this cleverly plotted sequel to The Storm Runner, the gang is back together again with spirited new characters, sneaky gods, Aztec royalty, unlikely alliances, and secrets darker than Zane could ever have imagined. Secrets that will change him forever.
Review: I really liked this book the second time around. I really love the character development and how the story toes that line between scary and funny. The world building is amazing, the writing is fantastic, and I absolutely love the mythology behind this book.
The only thing I got confused on was the plot. It's a bit too big for the book and there's a lot of loose strings at the end, but that makes me more excited to move onto book 3.
Verdict: It's amazing!
Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Author: J.C Cervantes
Book Series: The Storm Runner Book 2
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: September 3, 2019
Recommended Age: 12+ (some scary scenes and some violence and gore)
Genre: MG Fantasy
Publisher: Rick Riordan
Synopsis: Zane Obispo's new life on a beautiful secluded tropical island, complete with his family and closest friends, should be perfect. But he can't control his newfound fire skills yet (inherited from his father, the Maya god Hurakan); there's a painful rift between him and his dog ever since she became a hell hound; and he doesn't know what to do with his feelings for Brooks. One day he discovers that by writing the book about his misadventures with the Maya gods, he unintentionally put other godborn children at risk. Unless Zane can find the godborns before the gods do, they will be killed. To make matters worse, Zane learns that Hurakan is scheduled to be executed. Zane knows he must rescue him, no matter the cost. Can he accomplish both tasks without the gods detecting him, or will he end up a permanent resident of the underworld?
In this cleverly plotted sequel to The Storm Runner, the gang is back together again with spirited new characters, sneaky gods, unlikely alliances, and secrets darker than Zane could ever have imagined. Secrets that will change him forever.
Review: This book was my favorite last year and this book is one of my faves this year! I loved to see Zane's story continue, I think there's something so enduring about him and his trials that I get so emotionally attached to him. I love the writing, the character development, and how well new characters are quickly developed as well.
My only issue is the pacing. I felt that the beginning was super slow and it took a bit for me to get into, but after that I was all in for it.
Verdict: Definitely recommend it!