#197 Book Review: Venom

Venom (Secrets of the Eternal Rose #1)
Release Date: 6 December 2012
Author: Fiona Paul
Publisher: Harper Collins Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia
More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

Cassandra Caravello is part of Venice′s wealthy elite. Her world is one of fabulous gowns, society parties and privilege, yet she longs for something more. While her fiancé is away studying in Paris, she has a chance meeting with an artist called Falco. He is attractive, audacious...and highly unsuitable.

When Cass stumbles upon the body of a murdered woman - with a bloody X carved across her heart - she′s drawn into a dangerous world of secret societies, courtesans and killers. Falco is quick to offer his assistance, but then another body is found and Cass starts receiving death threats... Is Falco more involved than she imagined? And will she be able to stay true to her fiancé, or succumb to her uncontrollable feelings for someone she′s not even sure she can trust?

Cover:
Gorgeous! I love the girl's maroon dress, her mask and the background with the water canals of Venice. I think I prefer the Australian cover of Venom than the US cover!

Story:

Beauty, romance, murder...

When I first read the summary of Venom, I was absolutely excited to read the book. The setting of Italy during the Renaissance period, the mysteries and the romance, they all sound so appealing! The cover is also gorgeous. With my high expectations, I read the book and sadly, Venom didn't live up to my expectations.

The beginning of the story is actually quite exciting. Cass accidentally finds a dead body with a bloody X carved across the heart and so begins the story of her trying to find out the person behind all the murders with the help of Falco. The story itself is okay but some parts dragged a bit. The most enjoyable part of this book is perhaps the romance between Falco and Cass. Falco has many secrets but their moments together are romantic and quite forbidden since Falco is simply an artist whereas Cass comes from a respectable family. Fiona Paul's descriptions of the setting are also detailed and manage to capture the setting of Venice beautifully.

Characters:
I actually find it hard to relate to Cass. I find her quite annoying as a character and constantly unable to make up her mind about the decisions she has to make throughout the story. Falco, on the other hand, is enjoyable to read about although I was really desperate to find out how Falco is related to the murders. Falco is quite a sweet character who knows the right thing to say to charm a girl's heart, just like how he charmed Cass in the story. Cass' fiancé, Luca, also appears in this book and I disliked him although it would be interesting to see how it will all work out for Cass, Luca and Falco in the next book!

Overall:
Would you like to live in the Renaissance period, wearing beautiful dresses and attending glamorous balls? But can you imagine what would happen if a murder is lurking around? Venom is the first book in the Secrets of the Eternal Rose series. Although it didn't live up to my expectations, I did find the book enjoyable to a certain extent and I might still read the next book in the series, Belladona!

3 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Venom!

Thank you Harper Collins Australia for the review copy!

#196 Book Review: Altered

Altered
Release Date: 1 January 2013
Author: Jennifer Rush
Publisher: Hachette Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia
More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

Everything about Anna’s life is a secret. Her father works for the Branch at the helm of its latest project: monitoring and administering treatments to the four genetically altered boys in the lab below their farmhouse. There’s Nick, Cas, Trev . . . and Sam, who’s stolen Anna’s heart. When the Branch decides it’s time to take the boys, Sam stages an escape, killing the agents sent to retrieve them. 

Anna is torn between following Sam or staying behind in the safety of her everyday life. But her father pushes her to flee, making Sam promise to keep her away from the Branch, at all costs. There’s just one problem. Sam and the boys don’t remember anything before living in the lab—not even their true identities.

Now on the run, Anna soon discovers that she and Sam are connected in more ways than either of them expected. And if they’re both going to survive, they must piece together the clues of their past before the Branch catches up to them and steals it all away.

Cover:
When I first saw the cover, I thought it looked cool but had no idea how it represented the book. Now that I've read the book, I finally understood that the guy in the cover represents Sam and the tattoo on his back with the tree branches!

Story:

Four genetically altered boys, one girl who's about to find out the truth behind her life...

When I first heard of Altered, I knew I had to read it! The intriguing premise about four genetically altered boys kept locked inside a lab and a girl in love with one of them? Well count me in! Unfortunately, Altered didn't quite live up to my expectations although I did overall, enjoy the book.

The strong point of this book is perhaps its premise. The concept of genetically altered boys who have no memories about their past besides the skills they obtained is mysterious and makes you curious of what their secrets are. Anna and the four boys' escape from the farmhouse begins the journey of unlocking the secrets behind their pasts. Digging these secrets are fun, but somehow when the secrets are revealed, they fell quite flat to me. The climax of the story was quite disappointing and the story wasn't quite as hooking as I thought it would be. The ending however, was satisfying and it made up for some of the things that I didn't enjoy in the story.

Characters:
Personally, I love the four boys although Sam can be quite annoying with his brooding and mysterious behaviour. He leads Anna and then makes her think that he hates her. Cas is perhaps the 'clown' of the gang,  with Trev as the reliable friendly boy and Nick as the 'angriest' one. Anna cares for all the boys but deep down, her heart belongs to Sam. Anna and Sam's relationship can be quite frustrating at times, because sometimes it seems as though Sam and Anna has no relationship at all. Trev was the most surprising character when his secret was revealed. Nick who seemed as though he was constantly angry about his life is actually quite a sad character while Cas, what can I say besides the fact that he's always...hungry? I do enjoy reading about these characters although sometimes I did find them quite flat and annoying.

Overall:
Can you imagine living in a house where four genetically altered boys are kept confined in your basement? Well that basically sums up Anna's life, before she is on the run with the four boys after she discovers that they are all in danger. Altered is an enjoyable read overall, although the story sometimes fell flat to me. However, don't let this stop you from reading the book. Altered might just be your cup of tea!

3 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Altered!

Thank you Hachette Australia for the review copy!

#193 Book Review: Hidden

Hidden (Avena #1)
Release Date: 1 March 2013
Author: Marianne Curley
Publisher: Bloomsbury Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia
More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

Ebony has led a very sheltered life. She isn't ready for the disturbing things which start happening to her. But these events are just part of a discovery that will rock her whole world. Ebony's life wasn't 'sheltered' - she was hidden away. Now her location is no longer secret, but who will find her first?

Cover:
Love the feather theme in the cover and how one feather is covering the eyes of the girl! I also love the swirly patterns and the blue title. It's gorgeous!

Story:

"When he took Ebony from me, I knew I would spend my life searching for her. Now I have found her, he will do everything in his power to keep us apart."

When I first heard of Hidden, I did not know that this was an Aussie YA. Before writing Hidden, Marianne Curley has already written other well-known books which I have never heard of. However, the premise behind Hidden does sounds interesting so I decided to give it a go and see what I thought of it! It is overall enjoyable although I did have some issues with the book.

Hidden is written from two different point of views, Ebony and Jordan. Just looking at this, you'd probably think that there is some sort of romance between Ebony and Jordan since their POVs are featured in this book. That's what I thought as well but Marianne Curley surprised me. It's in fact not true. There is definitely romance, but not between Ebony and Jordan. The concept behind Hidden is not new, and we've seen a lot of books about angels in the world of YA. While the concept wasn't quite appealing, what made me enjoy this book to a certain extent was the romance between Ebony and a character called Thane!

Characters:
So let's talk about Thane! He is mainly the reason why I enjoyed this book. Perhaps if the romance was between Ebony and Jordan, I might not have enjoyed this book. Thane was the only character that I could relate to and understand. Ebony wasn't a particularly likeable heroine and Jordan was also annoying at times. Thane however, was a strong and kind character who really loves Ebony. If you want to know who Thane is, then you'd have to read the book because knowing who he is actually is a huge spoiler to the story!  While there are other characters in the book, the one that definitely stood out the most for me was Thane even though none of the chapters were written from his POV.

Overall:
Hidden is the newest novel by Marianne Curley with an enjoyable story and characters. While the concept is not new, I really adored Thane's character which made me enjoy the book! Even though I didn't quite enjoyed this book as I thought I would, I am still looking forward to its sequel!

3 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Hidden!

Check out the book trailer below!

Series review: Smitten

Unlucky Break 
Release Date: March 2013
Author: Kate Forster
Publisher: Hardie Grant Egmont
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia
More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

Andie Powers has a one-way ticket to LA – the glamorous world of Hollywood, movie stars, palm trees and endless summer.

She’s desperate for a break after her mother’s battle with cancer and her boyfriend’s pathetic betrayal. Staying with her celebrity aunt Cece in Hollywood seems like the perfect solution. Besides, Cece won’t take no for an answer. Suddenly Andie has everything she could possibly need to be happy – a dream mansion, a new best friend, unlimited credit cards and a brand-new BMW.

But she can’t shake the feeling that this place is fake. It’s only after a chance encounter with bad-boy movie star James Hawthorn that she discovers something real.

She knows he couldn’t possibly feel the same way about her. But when everything around you is one big act, it’s hard not to get caught up in the story...

 Tall, Dark and Distant 

Release Date: March 2013

Author: Julie Fison

Publisher: Hardie Grant Egmont

Source: Publisher for Review

Format: Paperback

Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia

More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

When Georgia meets Nik on her summer holiday, she’s sure he’s too good to be true. He’s gorgeous, with god-like abs and an adorable English accent. Then she discovers that he’s actually a member of an obscenely wealthy Russian family – and he wants to get to know her better.

Nik catapults Georgia into a world of private yachts, fast cars and expensive jewellery. Having a billionaire for a boyfriend certainly comes with benefits ... but it also comes with a price. How long will it take before life in the fast lane spins out of control?

Lust and Found 
Release Date: March 2013
Author: Julie Fison
Publisher: Hardie Grant Egmont
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia
More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

Cambodia is the last place in the world Sienna wants to visit. She likes five- star hotels and exercising her credit card in air-conditioned malls – not flea- ridden hostels and trekking through the jungle.

But when her brother Eddie starts sending strange messages from Cambodia, Sienna’s mum convinces her to go check on him. Thankfully, her boyfriend agrees to go along.

When they arrive, they discover that Eddie has disappeared. Sienna just wants to find him and get the hell out of there. Everything in Cambodia
is getting to her – the language barrier, the unrelenting humidity, the mosquitos. But mostly it’s Eddie’s maddeningly hot French friend, Guillaume, who couldn’t be more unhelpful if he tried...

 Head over High Heels

Release Date: March 2013

Author: Kate Forster

Publisher: Hardie Grant Egmont

Source: Publisher for Review

Format: Paperback

Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia

More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

When Lyssa is scouted by a modelling agency, she’s more surprised than anyone. She’s a gangly girl from a migrant family, with out-of-control hair and the wrong postcode.

She’s not even interested in a modelling career. She wants to get into Medicine at university. Then she learns how much she could earn from a single photo shoot – enough to give her struggling family the help they need.

Lyssa’s parents don’t like her talking to boys, let alone posing provocatively for a photographer. And while her best friend Emily is a champion liar, Lyssa’s still not sure she’ll get away with it. She’s always played it safe.

But then she meets Dan at the modeling agency, and Dan is all kinds of amazing. Maybe amazing enough to convince Lyssa that she should play it dangerous for once...

Cover:
The covers are so so cute! They are actually the reason why I decided to read the series. My favourite might be Lust and Found, just because I love that sun-set effect but then, Head Over High Heels' cover has Eiffel Tower! (You know how much I love Paris) But all the covers are so adorable!

Story:

Have you been so smitten with a guy that everything feels like a dream? Do you ever fall for someone so quickly it feels impossible?

The Smitten series, although set in different places, with different stories and characters, carry the same themes throughout; love, family, friendship and pursuing your dreams. The series is also written by Australian authors! While I enjoyed all four, my favourite is perhaps Tall, Dark and Distant, because the guy, Nik, has English accent! (How typical of me)

I do have to say, the series feels a bit too unrealistic even though it is contemporary. The main character, living a normal life, suddenly encounters a guy or an event which changes her and even her life. While I don't mind these kinds of stories, sometimes they don't appeal so much to me. I love the different settings of the series such as how one is set in Paris, LA and even Cambodia! But the love story I find really cute and sweet, even though at times it can be frustrating. The series is fun and fluffy nevertheless so if you're looking for a summery escape, then this series might just be for you!

Characters:
The main characters in the series usually undergo development after the events in the story and I like reading about their progress from the first time we meet them in the story until the end. There are times when the characters' behaviours annoyed me so much but all is well in the end. My favourite characters though are probably Georgia and Nik from Tall, Dark and Distant. Even though the story itself feels unrealistic, I like their interactions and relationship!

Overall:
Are you looking for a fun, cute and fluffy contemporary books? Do you need a quick escape? Then the Smitten series might just be for you! Find yourself falling in love with the setting, story and characters! I am definitely looking forward to read more works by Kate Forster and Julie Fison!

3 Forget-Me-Not flowers for the Smitten series!

Thank you Hardie Grant Egmont for the review copies!

#178 Book Review: Lullaby

Lullaby (Watersong #2)
Release Date: 1st December 2012
Author: Amanda Hocking
Publisher: Pan Macmillan Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia | Dymocks
More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

Harper only wanted a safe, normal life. But when her younger sister Gemma runs off with a dangerous clique of beautiful girls, Penn, Thea, and Lexi, everything changes. Vowing to get her sister back no matter what the cost, Harper must face dangers unlike any she's ever experienced. Fortunately, she has Daniel by her side, a gorgeous guy who's devoted to helping her find her sister—and who's immune to the girls' dark powers. 

While Harper searches for her sister, Gemma struggles to adjust to her new life.  Gemma's powers are growing by the day, and the longer she lives with her new "sisters," the harder it is to resist entering their magical world.  It's a realm both dark and beautiful, and where she's plagued by strange hungers and unspeakable needs.  Just as she's drifting far away from her old life,  Harper and Daniel find her...but no one can deny how much she's changed.  All she wants is to return to her family and the mortal world, but how can she do that when she's become something else entirely—and will they still love her once they learn the truth?

Prepare to fall under the spell of Lullaby, the second book in the Watersong series from New York Times bestselling author Amanda Hocking.

Cover:
Absolutely gorgeous! I love the girl's dress, the sky, the splash of waves and how the girl is standing on top of the rocks, as if she's about to head to the sea.

Story:

Let the lullaby lure you deep, deep into the sea...

After reading Wake in the middle of this year, I really enjoyed Amanda Hocking's newest series. While I might have preferred the Trylle trilogy over her newest series, it's still quite exciting! Sirens! Myths! Sea! Definitely interesting, right?

In Lullaby, we continue Gemma and Harper's story. After Gemma's love for the sea transformed her life, she ran away from her home town, leaving Alex and Harper confused. Harper is determined to find her, with the help of Alex and Daniel. They investigate more about the sirens, ways to kill them and what they truly are. Questions such as what makes them sirens? How do we unbreak the curse? are constantly within Harper's mind. I quite enjoyed this story although probably, Wake is a bit more exciting than the second book. The main focus of the story is to find Gemma and the other sirens. The ending is disappointing for me but I'm still looking forward to how the story progresses in Tidal!

Characters:
I really like how we get to see more Harper and Daniel in this book. Daniel didn't quite 'charm' me in the first book but I love how he always tries to help Harper with finding Gemma. Their relationship is cute! Alex, meanwhile, is very devoted in the search for Gemma. When he finds her, their reunion is bittersweet. I didn't quite connect with Gemma in this book unfortunately, especially her decision in the ending but I still enjoyed reading about her story. The sirens are as usual, scary and terrifying but their decision in the ending surprised me. They are quite...nice! There are also new characters introduced in this book and they are quite interesting although Harper and Daniel definitely stood out in this book for me!

Overall:
Enjoy Wake? Then definitely check out Lullaby! The second book in the Watersong series is the search for Gemma, featuring Harper, Daniel and Alex! I did enjoy this book, although not as much as Wake. As you read Lullaby, heed this warning. Beware of the Sirens' lullaby as it can lure you deep, deep into the bottom of the sea...

3 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Lullaby!

Thank you Pan Macmillan Australia for the review copy!

#175 Book Review: Reached

Reached
Release Date: November 2012
Author: Ally Condie
Publisher: Penguin Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia | Dymocks
More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

After leaving Society and desperately searching for the Rising—and each other—Cassia and Ky have found what they were looking for, but at the cost of losing each other yet again: Cassia has been assigned to work for the Rising from within Society, while Ky has been stationed outside its borders. But nothing is as predicted, and all too soon the veil lifts and things shift once again.

In this gripping conclusion to the #1 New York Times-bestsellingMatched trilogy, Cassia will reconcile the difficulties of challenging a life too confining, seeking a freedom she never dreamed possible, and honoring a love she cannot live without.

Cover:
I really adore how the covers of the Matched series each represent the story of the book. The red theme of Reached's cover symbolises the red tablet and also how there's this sense of freedom achieved because the girl breaks free from the sphere which originally traps her inside.

Story:

The Pilot, the Uprising must live...to tell the tale...

After finishing Crossed last year, I was quite disappointed. I enjoyed Matched but not so much with Crossed. However, I was still excited to read Reached because I wanted to know how the story would conclude. Reached was a slow journey to a satisfying ending.

The story begins with Cassia, Ky and Xander separated to do their part for the Uprising. They are still waiting for the Pilot who will help them with their rebellion. Slowly, the story starts to unravel about the Uprising, the Pilot and Cassia, Ky and Xander's life. This book is written from Cassia, Ky and Xander's POV so it was really interesting to hear their thoughts on the journey of their lives. The story itself progressed really slowly and I found myself facing the same struggles as I did with Crossed. Luckily, towards the ending the story picked up and I was satisfied with the conclusion. One thing that stood out the most from this book was definitely Ally's writing. It was very lyrical and poetic!

Characters:
Cassia, Ky and Xander are with no doubt the three main characters in this book who have changed throughout the series. Cassia is no longer the girl trapped by the confines of the Society. Instead, she joins the Uprising to breakthrough the barriers set up by the Society. When reading Matched and Crossed, I was confused of who I should root for with Cassia. Xander or Ky? They both are different guys who love Cassia but after reading Reached, I can finally decide that Ky is actually perfect for Cassia. Their moments together are synced and their love for words are beautiful. There are new characters introduced in this book who play important roles in the Uprising and I really enjoyed reading about all of them!

Overall:
Will Cassia, Ky and Xander make it in the Uprising? Will the Society change? Reached is the satisfying conclusion to the Matched series. Even though I found the beginning slow, the book picked up towards the ending and Ally's lyrical writing brings us the enjoyable last book in the Matched trilogy.

3 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Reached!

Thank you Penguin Australia for the review copy!

Check out the book trailer below!

#169 Book Review: The Diviners

The Diviners
Release Date: November 2012
Author: Libba Bray
Publisher: Allen & Unwin
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia | Dymocks
More Info: Goodreads

Summary from Goodreads:

1920s New York. A teen clairvoyant. An old evil. It has begun...

Evie O'Neill has been exiled from her boring old home town and shipped off to the bustling streets of New York City - and she is pos-i-tute-ly thrilled! New York is the city of speak-easies, rent parties, shopping and movie palaces, and soon enough Evie is running with glamorous Ziegfeld girls and rakish pickpockets. The only catch is that Evie has to live with her Uncle Will, curator of the Museum of American Folklore, Superstition, and the Occult - also known as 'The Museum of the Creepy Crawlies'.

When a rash of occult-based murders comes to light, Evie and her uncle are right in the thick of it. Even Evie's new pals - hoofers, numbers runners and activists, but all swell kids - are drawn into the investigation. And through it all, Evie has a secret: a mysterious power that could help catch the killer - if he doesn't catch her first...

Cover:
Aussie cover all the way! I fell in love with this book's appearance so much. From that mysterious cover, to the gold-tinted fonts and the spine. LOVE IT!

Story:

Welcome to the glamorous New York, 1920...

Oh hello there The Diviners, my first Libba Bray book ever! Mysteries, clairvoyance and the glamourous New York is there to attract you into the intriguing crafty story Libba Bray has written in The Diviners. Reading this book made me feel like singing 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' somehow. This book is pos-i-tutely charming and I enjoyed it!

This book is written from different points of view although the main character is still Evie. This book is fairly huge, about 600 pages but Libba Bray manages to explore the glamorous and quite scary-at-times New York descriptively. Reading this book made me want to live in the 1920 New York. The story plot and Libba Bray's witty writing are the best elements in this book. However, the switching points of view between Evie and the other characters made me lack the connection with the story. Sometimes, I felt confused and there were some bits that dragged for a while. While mysteries surround the book, romance does make an appearance and I thought it was really sweet, cute and charming. Although, I did enjoy this book even though I did not love it as much as I thought I would.

Characters:
Evie O'Neill. Be my new best friend please! I absolutely clicked with Evie from the first page. Throughout the book, I kept on wondering what Evie would do and how she would act to certain situations. There's also Uncle Will, the coolest uncle in the world. Well, he might not be the COOLEST but he's still cool! I really liked Memphis too. Some of the bits in the book were written from his perspective and I really did enjoy it! AND AND NAUGHTY JOHN! I'm scared of you. But not that scared. Oh and not to forget Jericho and Sam, Evie's love interest. So I liked both of them but maybe I'm leaning more towards Jericho! Overall, I do think that the characters all well-written although I do have to say that Evie was probably the one that I connected most with!

Overall:
How about a trip to the Museum of Creepy Crawlies in New York, 1920? Sounds great? The Diviners is the first charming, scary with a touch of humour book in Libba Bray's newest series. You like mysteries, clairvoyance and ghosts? Well this book is for you! Even though I didn't felt quite connected with the story, I still enjoyed this book overall! Absolutely can't wait for the sequel!

3 Forget-Me-Not flowers for The Diviners!

Thank you Allen & Unwin for the review copy!

#166 Book Review: Breathe

Breathe
Release Date: November 2012
Author: Sarah Crossan
Publisher: Bloomsbury Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia
More Info: Goodreads

Summary from Goodreads:

When oxygen levels plunge in a treeless world, a state lottery decides which lucky few will live inside the Pod. Everyone else will slowly suffocate. Years after the Switch, life inside the Pod has moved on. A poor Auxiliary class cannot afford the oxygen tax which supplies extra air for running, dancing and sports. The rich Premiums, by contrast, are healthy and strong. Anyone who opposes the regime is labelled a terrorist and ejected from the Pod to die. Sixteen-year-old Alina is part of the secret resistance, but when a mission goes wrong she is forced to escape from the Pod. With only two days of oxygen in her tank, she too faces the terrifying prospect of death by suffocation. Her only hope is to find the mythical Grove, a small enclave of trees protected by a hardcore band of rebels. Does it even exist, and if so, what or who are they protecting the trees from? A dystopian thriller about courage and freedom, with a love story at its heart.

Cover:
The cracked soils and the pod really represents the book. I like the background and how the three people on the cover stands out with the light illuminating them! It's really eye-catching.

Story:

Only 2 days worth of oxygen to survive...

Breathe is a book full of promises, starting from the premise, the combination of dystopian and theme of survival with a touch of romance. I wanted to enjoy this book as much as I thought I would but unfortunately, Breathe seemed to lack that 'something' that would have kept me hooked into the story.

I have to admit, the concept of Breathe is brilliant. I never thought of such circumstances explored in Breathe where one day, oxygen becomes scarce and a matter as simple as breathing is a challenge. It is not often that we take breathing for granted and reading this book opens my mind towards an alternative future where oxygen is the main problem. Can you imagine living the rest of your life inside a pod? The story is written from different perspectives; Alina, Quinn and Bea. However, I find the story a bit typical for a dystopian book. The story plot confuses me at times and sometimes I have to stop and grasp the ideas introduced before returning to the story. The first 80% of the book did not manage to grab me but the last 20% did. Although, what I thought stands out particularly in this book besides the concept is the theme of survival. The theme of survival enhances the strong premise of the book. When I read the book, I was not expecting romance but it is in the book. I think the romance was not fully explored and annoyed me sometimes although it does get sweet and heart-warming.

Characters:
There are three main characters in this book; Alina, Quinn and Bea and the one I felt connected most with is actually Bea. Alina is a part of the Resistance and she is strong and highly-trained but I did not like her personality. The one that felt 'humane' out of all the characters is Bea. Her kindness becomes her will to survive and help out others. She is an auxiliary, not a Premium meaning that she is one of the poor people living in the Pod. She is friends with Quinn although Quinn is a Premium. There is a story of what seems like an 'unrequited love' but turns into a 'love story'. Quinn is somewhat likeable and also annoying. He is ignorant although he can be truly kind. His best moments are the events leading to the end of the book. I liked him in those moments and I wished he was like that from the beginning. Quinn's father is a surprising character. He appears as if he is the 'bad guy' but there is something more to him. There are also other characters, part of the Resistance and they are all interesting. I hope we can still meet them in the next book!

Overall:
What would life be like if breathing is a challenge? If oxygen is scarce? Breathe ventures the concept of an alternative dystopian future where oxygen becomes the major problem of survival. While the premise is definitely promising, the story plot lacked that 'something' to hook me into the story although the characters are more enjoyable to read about. If you love dystopian books with a brilliant premise, then Breathe might just be for you!

3 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Breathe!

Thank you Bloomsbury Australia for the review copy!

Check out the book trailer below!

#155 Book Review: Wentworth Hall

Wentworth Hall
Release Date: July 1st 2012
Author: Abby Grahame
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy: Fishpond | Booktopia | Dymocks
More Info: Goodreads

Summary from Goodreads:

It’s 1912 and the Darlingtons of Wentworth Hall have more than just their extensive grounds to maintain. They need to keep up appearances that things are as they have always been for one of England’s most elite families... even as whispers of secret romances and bitter betrayals threaten their façade of perfection.

Maggie Darlington has a secret. And she’s not the only one: The handsome groom, Michael, the beautiful new French nanny, Therese, even Maggie’s youngest sister, Lila, are all hiding something. And when scandalous satires start appearing in the newspaper with details that closely mirror the lives of the Darlingtons, they are soon looking over their shoulders, worrying about whose scandal will be next - because at Wentworth Hall, nothing stays secret forever.

Cover:
Really reflects the book! I'm pretty sure the girls on the cover represent Maggie, Therese and Lila while the guy might be Michael! Either way, I like the historical feeling of the cover!

Story:

Meet scandal, your new best friend...

What's life without any scandals? Especially when you're the Darlingtons? Well, let me introduce you to the Darlingtons. We have Maggie, the oldest daughter and Lila, the younger sister. Might I remind you that I'm not writing a satire. We also have James, a newborn baby who Maggie seems highly attached to. Oh, and not to forget Therese, a French nanny, Michael, a handsome groom and scandals! Welcome to the life of the Darlingtons.

When I read about Wentworth Hall for the first time, I really wanted to read it. It's pitched as Downton Abbey meets Gossip Girl so I was intrigued. I love Gossip Girl although I haven't watched Downton Abbey. I do agree that there are some aspects of Gossip Girl in the book, particularly since it revolves around 'rich' people and scandals surrounding their lives. But, the scandal itself is not very shocking or surprising. The scandals are exposed when an anonymous author starts writing satires of the Darlingtons by using different names, calling them the 'Worthless'. Since the author must be living with the Darlingtons, I knew who it was immediately. The scandal itself wasn't very new. It's quite obvious and common. However, I do like reading the satires inserted in the book. It's quite funny actually, since the characters' names are hilarious! I did enjoy the book overall and Abby's writing.

Characters:
The Darlingtons are quite interesting to read about although I ended up becoming more interested in Michael and Therese, the groom and the nanny rather than Maggie and Lila themselves. After Maggie's return from France, she changed. But of course, there is a reason behind the change and when I discovered it, I felt sad for Maggie. Meanwhile, Lila's behaviour is quite typical for a younger sister. She feels overshadowed by Maggie, her beauty and how many suitors tend to fall head over heels for her. However, towards the end of the book, Lila did something brilliant and I must applaud her for doing that and fixing her relationship with Maggie. Lord Darlington is an annoying man who is in a hurry to marry her daughter with a rich lord to save the Darlington's wealth and fortune. But overall, the characters are actually enjoyable to read about since they have different stories and characteristics!

Overall:
So, you like your new best friend; scandal? Wentworth Hall is an enjoyable historical fiction revolving the lives of the Darlingtons. Discover Maggie, Lila, Michael and Therese's secrets while enjoying a great setting, topped with satires of the 'Worthless'! If you enjoy Gossip Girl, definitely give this book a try since it's quite similar to the show but set in the 1910s!

3 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Wentworth Hall!

Thank you Simon & Schuster Australia for the review copy!

#142 Book Review: Confessions of an Angry Girl [ARC]

Confessions of an Angry Girl
Release Date: September 1st 2012
Author: Louise Rozett
Publisher: Harlequin Teen Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy: Fishpond | Booktopia
More Info: Goodreads

Summary from Goodreads:

Rose Zarelli, self-proclaimed word geek and angry girl, has some CONFESSIONS to make... #1: I'm livid all the time. Why? My dad died. My mom barely talks. My brother abandoned us. I think I'm allowed to be irate, don't you?

#2: I make people furious regularly. Want an example? I kissed Jamie Forta, a badass guy who "might" be dating a cheerleader. She is now enraged and out for blood. Mine.

#3: High school might as well be Mars. My best friend has been replaced by an alien, and I see red all the time. (Mars is red and "seeing red" means being angry-get it?)

Here are some other vocab words that describe my life: Inadequate. Insufferable. Intolerable.

(Don't know what they mean? Look them up yourself.) (Sorry. That was rude.)

Cover:
I really like the cover! I like how the girl looks a bit 'angry' and how she's pulling the necklace with an initial 'R' which Rose actually has in the book. I like the girl's blue nails too!

Story:

plummet (verb): to fall suddenly, sharply, steeply
(see also: to start high school)

Confessions of an Angry Girl is a very very ANGRY book. Oh no, I'm just kidding. Even though the title gives off this feeling about anger, it's not a very ANGRY book. The book discusses the issue of a teenager's life and how it can be frustrating. 

Basically, the story revolves around Rose, a 14 year-old girl whose father just died. She's having a crush on someone who might be someone else's boyfriend and her high school life is not going so well. All the issues brought up in this book such as school, parties, sex and friendship really represent teenage life. I like Rozett's writing. It's witty, fun and thoroughly enjoyable. I connected with the story and the ending! I want to read the next book now! If you don't know,  the book is actually the first in the Confessions series and the ending of the first book is practically screaming 'you know you want need to read the next book' and yes I do! 

Characters:
The characters in this book are enjoyable to read about. I understand what Rose is going through and how sometimes she can get really angry because of all things that is happening in her life right now. There are times when I feel really annoyed with her such as how I think her crush on Jamie is a bit too much and I want to tell her to snap out of it. Although,  I love how Rose has a range of vocabularies! It makes her really fun to read about! Tracy, Rose's best friend is really annoying. I dislike her because even though she's Rose's best friend, she doesn't act like one and rarely listens to her although she ends up regretting later. Jamie is an okay character, I don't particularly like him since he never straightens up his issue with Regina (his sort-of girlfriend) and Rose. The cheerleaders in this book are even more annoying, particularly Regina. I also feel sad for Robert, a guy who really likes Rose because after trying so hard to make Rose like him, she still does not have any feelings for him.

Overall:
Confessions of an Angry Girl is a great novel I really enjoyed reading about, despite my little issues with the characters. The book brings up issues about teenagers' life and how hard it can be for them. Rozett's writing is witty and sometimes even full of humour! Miss school life and what it's like to be a teenager? I'd definitely recommend this book to fans of contemporary!

3 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Confessions of an Angry Girl!

Thank you Harlequin Teen Australia for the review copy!

#111 Book Review: Changeling

Changeling (The Order of Darkness #1)
Release Date: May 29th 2012
Author: Philippa Gregory
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy: Amazon | The Book Depository
More Info: Goodreads

Summary from Goodreads:

Italy, 1453. Seventeen-year-old Luca Vero is brilliant, gorgeous—and accused of heresy. Cast out of his religious order for using the new science to question old superstitious beliefs, Luca is recruited into a secret sect: The Order of the Dragon, commissioned by Pope Nicholas V to investigate evil and danger in its many forms, and strange occurrences across Europe, in this year—the end of days.  

Isolde is a seventeen-year-old girl shut up in a nunnery so she can’t inherit any of her father’s estate. As the nuns walk in their sleep and see strange visions, Isolde is accused of witchcraft—and Luca is sent to investigate her, but finds himself plotting her escape.    

Despite their vows, despite themselves, love grows between Luca and Isolde as they travel across Europe with their faithful companions, Freize and Ishraq. The four young people encounter werewolves, alchemists, witches, and death-dancers as they head toward a real-life historical figure who holds the boundaries of Christendom and the secrets of the Order of the Dragon.     

The first in a series, this epic and richly detailed drama is grounded in historical communities and their mythic beliefs. It includes a medieval map of Europe that will track their journey; and the interior will include relevant decorative elements as well as an interior line illustration. And look for a QR code that links to a note from the author with additional, detailed information about the setting and the history that informed the writing. With Philippa Gregory’s trademark touch, this novel deftly brings the past—and its salacious scandals—vividly and disturbingly to life.

Cover:

Looks awesome and really reflects the book. I did not imagine the characters in the book like the guy and the girl in the cover but their clothes fit the setting of the book well!

Story:

Changeling, Changeling, what makes you a Changeling? 

I’ve heard great things about Philippa Gregory’s books. Her adult books were very well-known and one of her books, The Other Boleyn Girl was also made into a movie. I’ve never read any of her adult books before. When I first knew that Gregory was going to make a YA novel, I was ecstatic. I wanted to have a taste of her writing and her YA novel seemed like a good chance for me! It’s also been a while since I read a historical fiction book and Changeling’s summary intrigued me.

Changeling is written from both Luca and Isolde’s POV. I really enjoyed the historical setting of this book. Changeling is set in the 1400s in Italy and Gregory’s vibrant descriptions of the setting made me able to imagine the whole setting of the book in my head. Italy during the 1400s seemed like such a beautiful but dark city. The story behind Changeling was appealing and exciting. The story progressed slowly, as we are introduced to the characters and their story. I wasn’t hooked into the story until near the end of the book where it was filled with actions and so many things were going on. The ending was okay. It didn’t make me dying to read the next book but I still can’t wait for the sequel!

The book also comes with small illustrations of the setting and the illustrations are wonderful!

Characters:

Luca Vero is supposedly a Changeling. Many people claimed that Luca’s parents were not his real parents because they were nobody but Luca was extremely smart and highly intellectual. Luca was an orphan in the beginning of the book and was recruited into The Order of the Dragon. He was given the task to investigate the strange things happening in a nunnery and this is where he meets Isolde.

Isolde’s life changed drastically when her father died. She was supposed to inherit her father’s lands but ended up living in this nunnery because apparently it was her father’s wish, stated in his will. I adore reading her growing relationship with Luca and also Isolde’s confidence. I also enjoyed reading about Freize, Luca’s companion and Ishraq, Isolde’s companion. They were all very enjoyable to read about!

Overall:

Philippa Gregory’s newest YA novel, Changeling, is an alluring novel with a great historical setting Even though the story didn’t quite hooked me, I adored the setting and the concept behind Changeling.  If you adore Philippa Gregory’s adult novels, then I recommend you to check out her YA novel too! If you love historical fiction, why not try Changeling as well?

3 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Changeling!

  Thank you Simon & Schuster Australia for the review copy!

Check out the book trailer!

#110 Book Review: Disharmony

Disharmony (The Telling #1)
Release Date: May 23rd 2012
Author: Leah Giarratano
Publisher: Penguin Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy: Fishpond
More Info: Goodreads

Summary from Goodreads:

A psychopath...an empath...a genius.

Three siblings who will save the world – or destroy it.
They know nothing of each other. They know nothing of the Telling.
But they’ll need to learn fast if they’re going to survive...

A gripping new series about a collision of worlds, the power of destiny, and the darkness in us all...

Cover:

I love the dark feeling of the cover and the black background. The way we can only see the girl’s hair gives off this eerie and anonymous feeling. 

Story:

A psychopath. An empath. A genius.

 

Disharmony is an engaging and gripping read. The book is written from alternating POVs between Luke, Samantha, and an anonymous narrator. When I first heard of the book, I was really interested with the concept of Disharmony. It was a unique and different concept compared to all the YA books I’ve read out there. 

The idea of a witch creating 3 children with different abilities was very interesting. I really enjoyed reading how each of the children discovered that they are not just an average person but have the ability that makes them different from others. The story was quite well-written although it took me about ¾ of the book to finally get hooked into the story. The book started out with a chapter written by the anonymous narrator which I really liked but then the story progressed slowly until closer to the end of the book where it was filled with actions and exciting scenes. The ending made me excited to read the next book!

Characters:

The characters in this book are so enjoyable to read about! I love their personalities and their abilities. I don’t really want to spoil the characters’ ability but let’s just say Luke Black is unable to feel pain and Samantha is the opposite of him. I enjoyed reading about how they discover that they have special abilities and how they have siblings that are similar to them, born from the same mother. When they finally met, the plot became very interesting. I also really like Kirra, the Asian girl and antagonist in this book. She absolutely rocks! She works for the Yakuza so you can imagine how kick-ass she is!

As I read the book, I noticed that there were 3 ‘gifted’ children but only 2 were introduced in this book. What does this mean? And my curiosity was answered by the end of the book so I’m excited to read the next book in the series!

Overall:

Leah Giarratano’s Disharmony is a new riveting novel with a unique concept. What will happen when a psychopath, an empath and a genius unite? Will they bring good to the world or destroy the world with evil? Even though the story didn’t quite hooked me, it was overall an enjoyable read and I’m excited for the next book in the series!

3 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Disharmony!

Thank you Penguin Australia for the review copy!

Check out the book trailer!