#205 Book Review: Empower

Empower (The Violet Eden Chapters #5)
Release Date: 12 November 2013
Author: Jessica Shirvington
Publisher: Hachette Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia
More Info: Goodreads

Summary: 

It has been two years since Violet Eden walked away from the city, her friends, her future and - most importantly - her soulmate, Lincoln. Part angel, part human, Violet is determined to stand by the promises she made to save the one she loves. 

Living in the perpetual coldness of a broken soul she survives day to day as a Rogue Grigori in London. 

But when an unexpected visitor shows up at her door, the news he bears about someone she swore to protect leaves Violet with no choice.

Even worse, she fears that this might all lead back to the night she tries hardest to forget. And what was taken without her permission.

Violet is going back to New York ... and she knows exactly who is going to be there.

With Phoenix in her dreams and Lincoln in her heart she knows it is only a matter of time before the final choice must be made. 

Cover:
I love the contrast between dark and light and it really reflects the story and the core of Empower. It really represents the finale of the series and I adore it!

Story:

The final battle to test the power of love...

Well, the tag line above may sound cliché but that's how I felt throughout my journey of reading Empower and perhaps even the entire series. I have waited a year to read the finale of the series and I remember how last year after finishing Endless, I wasn't even sure if there will be another book in the Violet Eden Chapters. I couldn't be more pleased to find out that there's another book and although it is the finale, I felt ready to start the journey leading to the end of Violet's story. 

The ending of Endless left me heartbroken for Violet and Lincoln. Although Empower still contains that powerful action that we adored from the previous four books, I found Violet and Lincoln's relationship and love more prominent than other elements of the book. Perhaps it was because we were left hanging after the ending of Endless but the wait for Empower was absolutely worth it since there is plenty of romance which leaves reader breathless and anxious for more. This finale is all about decisions, choices and without spoiling anything, it's an epic finale that beautifully wraps up the whole series. 

Characters:

This is perhaps the best part of Empower. Watching Violet grow as a character from Embrace to Empower is absolutely a great journey, beginning from her denying her powers and abilities to the point where she embraces and uses them to save her loved ones. Towards the end, I was satisfied by Violet's development as a character. I also really adored Lincoln's character. Although his development was not as big and prominent to that of Violet's, I never stopped rooting for him and his love for Violet. Together, they form the epic couple whose relationship melts my heart. There's also Phoenix, who constantly made my heart twinge. Before, I was concerned about how Jessica would end the sort-of love triangle between the three and how she did it was great. It pleased me to know that all three characters could finally obtain the happiness they truly deserve after all the journey they went through. Of course, there are other amazing characters in the story but I have to admit, Phoenix and Violet and Lincoln's story outshine them.

Overall:

Empower is a powerful and satisfying finale to the Violet Eden Chapters. After waiting a year, this book is absolutely worth the wait. It has everything you want in a finale; an epic battle, a conclusive romance and most of all, a beautiful end to the journey of the characters you love and feel attached to. I will miss this series so much but I'm looking forward to reading Jessica Shirvington's upcoming works!

5 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Empower!

Thank you Hachette Australia for the review copy!

PS: Hi everyone! I'm finally back to blogging after 6 months of hiatus. It's going to take some time to get into the reading and blogging mode but expect more reviews to come soon!

#204 Book Review: Siege and Storm [ARC]

Siege and Storm (The Grisha #2) [ARC]
Release Date: 26 June 2013
Author: Leigh Bardugo
Publisher: Hachette Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia
More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

Darkness never dies.

Hunted across the True Sea, haunted by the lives she took on the Fold, Alina must try to make a life with Mal in an unfamiliar land, all while keeping her identity as the Sun Summoner a secret. But she can’t outrun her past or her destiny for long.

The Darkling has emerged from the Shadow Fold with a terrifying new power and a dangerous plan that will test the very boundaries of the natural world. With the help of a notorious privateer, Alina returns to the country she abandoned, determined to fight the forces gathering against Ravka. But as her power grows, Alina slips deeper into the Darkling’s game of forbidden magic, and farther away from Mal. Somehow, she will have to choose between her country, her power, and the love she always thought would guide her–or risk losing everything to the oncoming storm.

Cover:
My ARC copy is a bound copy of Shadow and Bone and Siege and Storm so it does not have Siege and Storm's cover but I love this cover more than the US cover of the first book! Just look at that dragon forming the title and wrapping itself around that building. Love it!

Story:

The world of Ravka is about to experience the darkness as it never had before...

If you remember reading my review of Shadow and Bone last year (or known as The Gathering Dark in the UK/AUS), I loved it and adored it to pieces. Reading the book was like stepping into a fairytale of a battle between the dark and light and a new epic fantasy world that I wish I could live in. Now the sequel, is an entire different matter. It still has that beauty Shadow and Bone has, but the sequel is not about introducing the world Leigh Bardugo has created. It's exploring this world, revealing more secrets and darkness that cloaks Ravka, Alina, Mal and even the beloved Darkling.

Siege and Storm continues directly from the ending of Shadow and Bone. Mal and Alina are on the run from Darkling but of course, Darkling finds them. But this time, Darkling has evolved. His powers are terrifyingly strong, befalling darkness in Ravka. What I loved most about this book is how Bardugo slowly unravels the mysteries behind her characters and her world. It is so fascinating and unique. Her descriptions of when Alina and Darkling use their powers are so detailed and beautiful. Now I'm sure you are curious about the romance as well and I feel like I'm a betrayer because I was Team Darkling in the first book but now, I am torn between Mal and Darkling!

Characters:
There are new characters introduced in this book and while they are really enjoyable to read about, all I want to discuss about is Mal, Alina and Darkling! Can you blame me? The thing is these 3 characters are so intertwined and complex sometimes. Well before I start, I should probably briefly introduce a new character called Sturmhond. He is loveable, charming and also often underestimated although he is a genius!

I don't even know where to begin actually. Mal and Alina's relationship certainly dominates this book although we do have glimpses of scenes between Alina and Darkling alone. It pains me to think that Alina and Darkling will never have the kind of relationship Mal and Alina has because Darkling is just too...dark now. Mal, on the other hand, proved to be a loyal, fierce companion who truly loves Alina. Their relationship gets rocky at times but Alina, Mal and Darkling are certainly not in some sort of typical love triangle. Each have their own stories that make up the entire book and that is what makes scenes between Alina and Mal, Alina and Darkling so beautiful.

Overall:
Siege and Storm is the magnificent sequel to Shadow and Bone, with its riveting story and the beloved characters Alina, Mal and Darkling. The enchanting world Bardugo has created is further explored in the sequel and although I love Shadow and Bone slightly more than its sequel, fans of the first book will definitely love Siege and Storm!

5 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Siege and Storm!

Thank you Hachette Australia for the review copy!

#202 Book Review: Dare You To [ARC]

Dare You To [ARC]
Release Date: 1 June 2013
Author: Katie McGarry
Publisher: Harlequin Teen Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia
More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

If anyone knew the truth about Beth Risk's home life, they'd send her mother to jail and seventeen-year-old Beth who knows where. So she protects her mom at all costs. Until the day her uncle swoops in and forces Beth to choose between her mom's freedom and her own happiness. That's how Beth finds herself living with an aunt who doesn't want her and going to a school that doesn't understand her. At all. Except for the one guy who shouldn't get her, but does.... 

Ryan Stone is the town golden boy, a popular baseball star jock-with secrets he can't tell anyone. Not even the friends he shares everything with, including the constant dares to do crazy things. The craziest? Asking out the Skater girl who couldn't be less interested in him. 

But what begins as a dare becomes an intense attraction neither Ryan nor Beth expected. Suddenly, the boy with the flawless image risks his dreams-and his life-for the girl he loves, and the girl who won't let anyone get too close is daring herself to want it all....

Cover:
I love how it matches the Australian cover for Pushing the Limits! While the US cover is pretty awesome as well, I adore the soft sepia effect of the Australian cover for Dare You To.

Story:

I dare you...

For Ryan, it all started with a dare. A dare to get the Skater Girl's phone number and name. But what started out as dare, surprisingly grew into an attraction that Ryan can't deny. Same goes to Beth, the Skater Girl. She's had her problems but she can't help but feel the attraction between her and Ryan. In Katie McGarry's newest novel, Dare You To, a girl and a boy from different worlds collide in a beautiful and heart-breaking story.

Pushing the Limits was one of my favourite reads last year. McGarry's solid and raw writing brought the story of Noah and Echo alive. I have to admit, I never did care so much about Beth's character in Pushing the Limits. But in this book, I learnt a lot about Beth and her story is heart-wrenching but beautifully intense as well. I never thought it was possible but I love and adore Dare You To more than Pushing the Limits. I feel so connected to Ryan and Beth and I couldn't stop reading at all. McGarry's writing deeply captures the story of both Ryan, Beth and the two different worlds they come from. The chemistry between Ryan and Beth is beautiful like fireworks and I absolutely love the dares they give to each other.

Characters:
What makes this book special and so heart-breaking yet beautiful at the same time is the characters. I remember vaguely from Pushing the Limits that whenever Beth's around, Isaiah's always there. This gives an impression that they're together. But they are not. There are scenes in this book between Beth and Isaiah that break my heart but we all know that Isaiah will have his own happy ending and story in the next book, Crash Into You.

In this book, Beth finds her 'root', her 'anchor' to stay in Grovestone in Ryan after having to leave Louisville because of her mother. To Beth, Isaiah is her best friend, nothing more. Beth's life before Groveston is heart-breaking. She feels responsible for her mother who is addicted to drugs and she is physically abused by her mother's boyfriend. I know Beth loves her mother but I really hate how her mother is weak and kept on staying with her abusive boyfriend. This is why Beth puts a strong wall around herself, only allowing a few people to truly know the 'Beth' inside. She acts as though she's the toughest girl out there who can do anything she wants but deep down, she's not. But Ryan slowly breaks through the wall Beth builds and once he reaches inside, what he finds is a girl who still loves ribbons, an abused girl who loves her mother and a girl who likes to run away. Ryan and Beth are such well-written characters. I loved how Ryan, even though he's a jock who plays baseball, has another side to him: a boy who has his way with words, who loves to write, whose life is not as perfect as it seems. I love their relationship so much, from the beginning to its very end.

Overall:
Dare You To is the beautiful, intense and heart-breaking story of Ryan and Beth. Katie McGarry's raw writing brings you a story of the beautiful collision between a boy and a girl from two different worlds with their own story and secrets. I didn't know it was possible but I love Dare You To more than Pushing the Limits. So..I dare you to read this book and fall in love with it.

5 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Dare You To!

Thank you Harlequin Teen Australia for the review copy!

#200 Book Review: With All My Soul

With All My Soul (Soul Screamers #7)
Release Date: 1 April 2013
Author: Rachel Vincent
Publisher: Harlequin Teen Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia
More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

After spending the last year undead, Kaylee has had enough of the paranormal creatures who have plagued her ever since she came into her banshee powers. Now she's ready to take her school back from the evil hellions...once and forever. To protect her friends, Kaylee will need to find a way to turn the living incarnations of Avarice, Envy and Vanity against one another. yet when one more person close to her is taken, Kaylee realises she can't save everyone she loves without making some powerful sacrifices...

Cover:
This change to the UK cover for the final book in the series is definitely surprising. I am quite disappointed as my series won't match because I have the previous 6 books with the US cover. I prefer the US cover for With All My Soul, the golden dress is absolutely gorgeous!

Story:

Kaylee Cavanaugh is taking her final stand!

[Warning: Spoilers for those who haven't read the books in the series, particularly Before I Wake]

Saying goodbye to a series, and not just any series, one of my all-time favourite series, is definitely hard. While I haven't been a fan of Rachel Vincent for a long time, I devoured the first 6 books in the Soul Screamers series mid-2012 and I have been waiting for With All My Soul ever since then. The thing that made the wait bearable was the fact that Before I Wake did not end in a cliffhanger. So, did I enjoy With All My Soul? Well, enjoy is an understatement. I love With All My Soul with all my heart. (Well, I actually wanted to say with all my soul but I think the pun might be too much!)

I actually don't quite remember what happened in Before I Wake but the start of With All My Soul slowly refreshed my memory of the major change that happened to Emma in Before I Wake, and also other events that happened which affected the characters in the book. Kaylee is determined to bring the hellions down so that they can never harm her loved ones again, but that is difficult as the hellions are challenging to defeat. While that is the major plot of the story (trying to defeat the hellions), the plot also covers Traci's 'pregnancy', Emma's adaptation to her 'new' life and of course, the amazing relationship between Kaylee and Tod. What particularly surprised me was the climax of the series. It's so clever, smart and genius. I want to applaud Kaylee for that, but I guess the one I should truly applaud is Rachel Vincent for writing such an epic series.

Characters:
This is the bit I'm most excited for! Kaylee has definitely grown throughout the series, after all the hardships she had to endure. It's good to see that she has her happy ending after the climax of the plot. One thing that hasn't change is Kaylee's tendency to act rashly and secretively. Throughout the series, we are no longer surprised by the decisions Kaylee make which can be quite impulsive at times. She makes major decisions in this book too and while I can't really say I'm happy with the choice she makes, I understand why she makes them.

What I particularly adored is Tod. He is perhaps the only character who I found absolutely perfect! Kaylee is not exactly a perfect girlfriend but Tod is not the obsessive controlling boyfriend. He tries to understand Kaylee's decisions, controlled his anger and never ceases to love her no matter what happens. Those are the qualities of a perfect boyfriend! Tod completely outshines other characters. Sure, I adored Nash but he annoyed me quite a few times. Not to mention Sabine. I know she's not 'evil' anymore but I still dislike her. At first, I was quite against Nash and Sabine being together but in the end, I can accept that they do belong with each other. There's also Sophie and Luca. I still don't like Sophie but Luca is such a sweet guy! Sophie should definitely feel lucky that she has Luca as her boyfriend!

My favourite scenes are definitely Kaylee and Tod's moments in the book. I savoured them, particularly those swoon-worthy scenes including secret confessions and sharing ice-creams! Kaylee and Tod are perfect for each other.

Overall:
Wow, that turned out to be a such a long review! All in all, With All My Soul is the thrilling, beautiful and epic conclusion to the Soul Screamers series. I devoured this book in about 4 hours and I particularly loved all those scenes between Kaylee and Tod. I guess this is goodbye for now, Soul Screamers series. But rest assured, I'll be re-reading you again hopefully soon! (Just so I can read about the two lovely Hudson brothers, particularly *cough* Tod!)

5 Forget-Me-Not flowers for With All My Soul!

Thank you Harlequin Teen Australia for the review copy!

PS: Here's my favourite quote from the book :')

Kaylee: "Do you trust me, Tod?"

Tod: "With everything I have and everything I am. With all my soul."

*sigh* ♥TOD♥

#195 Book Review: Legacy

Legacy (Night School #2)
Release Date: 3 January 2013
Author: C.J. Daugherty
Publisher: Atom
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia
More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

In the last year, Allie's survived three arrests, two breakups and one family breakdown. The only bright point has been her new life at Cimmeria Academy. It's the one place she's felt she belongs. And the fact that it's brought dark-eyed Carter West into her life hasn't hurt either. But far from being a safe haven, the cloistered walls of Cimmeria are proving more dangerous than Allie could have imagined. The students and faculty are under threat, and Allie's family - from her mysterious grandmother to her runaway brother - are at the centre of the storm. Allie is going to have to choose between protecting her family and trusting her friends. But secrets have a way of ripping even the strongest relationships apart...

Cover:
Love the snowy theme of the cover and also the building that represents the academy! The red colour of Allie's hair and the font are also a good contrast to the white background.

Story:

Something dark is threatening Cimmeria Academy...

A year ago, I read Night School and absolutely loved it! The dark story about murders in an academy full of secrets was such an intriguing and exciting read I couldn't put the book down at all. When I heard that there was a sequel, I was ecstatic and after finishing Legacy, I believe that the sequel is even better than the first book!

In Legacy, Allie returns back to the academy and continues her life as a student. She is also in a relationship with the 'dreamy' Carter West. Everything sounds perfect, right? But the secrets surrounding Allie and the academy are still a threat and also endanger the students of the academy. The most interesting thing about this book is unravelling all these secrets and mysteries. I love how C.J. Daugherty brought us into some sort of treasure hunt to find all the clues to unlock the secrets and mysteries of the academy and by the end of the book, everything will finally make sense. The murders, the deaths, the betrayals, the romance, they are all pieces of puzzles that when finally assembled, create the 'bigger' picture. The romance in this book, shifts from Allie and Carter to Allie and Sylvain too. This shift is also a part of the secrets and mysteries. The ending left me breathless and I can't wait for the third book in the series!

Characters:
I still adored Allie in this book even though some of her actions and behaviours annoyed me. She is trying to adapt in the academy after all the murders and events in the first book, also trying to have a normal relationship with Carter but alas, the secrets and mysteries cannot stay hidden and become a threat to Allie. This in return, also strains her relationship with Carter who has his own secrets and makes Allie switch to Sylvain for protection, care and someone she can trust with no secrets. I loved Carter and disliked Sylvain in the first book but somehow, C.J. Daugherty manages to switch the situation around and I ended up hating Carter and starting to like Sylvain throughout Legacy. Carter becomes too over-protective of Allie which I hated because he was over-protective but never explained to Allie what was happening in the academy. Sylvain, on the other hand, started off as a friend to Allie (after their relationship was damaged in the first book) but their relationship became more. Sylvain became someone who Allie can rely on, someone she can trust, someone who would listen to her and support her decisions. I enjoyed reading about the other characters from the first book in Legacy but Allie, Carter and Sylvain are definitely the characters that stood out the most for me!

Overall:
Legacy is the amazing sequel to Night School, bringing you a story full of secrets, mysteries with a perfect amount of romance! C.J. Daugherty's writing will take you on a journey to unlock all these secrets, mysteries and the end will leave you breathless. Absolutely can't wait for the third book!

5 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Legacy!

Thank you Hachette Australia for the review copy!

#192 Book Review: Clockwork Princess

Clockwork Princess (The Infernal Devices #3)
Release Date: 19 March 2013
Author: Cassandra Clare
Publisher: Walker Books Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia
More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

Danger and betrayal, secrets and enchantment in the breathtaking conclusion to the Infernal Devices trilogy

Tessa Gray should be happy - aren't all brides happy?
Yet as she prepares for her wedding, a net of shadows begins to tighten around the Shadowhunters of the London Institute.
A new demon appears, one linked by blood and secrecy to Mortmain, the man who plans to use his army of pitiless automatons, the Infernal Devices, to destroy the Shadowhunters. Mortmain needs only one last item to complete his plan. He needs Tessa. And Jem and Will, the boys who lay equal claim to Tessa's heart, will do anything to save her.

Cover:
Do I even need to comment on this? It's PERFECT. When the cover was revealed, I jumped, squealed and danced around. Tessa looks extremely gorgeous in that dress, with her hair pinned up and her hands holding the codex. A perfect cover for an epic conclusion to the series!

Story:

The final battle to stop the Infernal Devices...

I don't think I can even properly review this book. I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE Clockwork Prince but Clockwork Princess? To me, it's better and I dare say it's perfect. Some might not agree but what's perfect about it is the way Cassie ties everything together and ends it.

So here's a little story of my experience when reading the book:

At 6 PM Sunday:
THIS IS IT. I HAVE THE BOOK. SQUEEEEEEEEEE

At 9 PM Sunday:
OH NO I JUST REALISED I STILL HAVE AN ASSIGNMENT TO WORK ON. *stops reading*

At 6 AM Monday:
Eating breakfast while reading Clockwork Princess has got to be the most brilliant idea I've ever had.

At 6 PM Monday:
Oh yeah, oh yeah, I finished my assignment. *continues to read*

At 8 PM Monday:
WHAT? WHAT JUST HAPPENED? *punches book but strokes the book afterwards*

At 11 PM Monday:
*sobs* *grabs tissue* I can't do this anymore. *sobs* SOMEONE HELP ME. GIVE ME STRENGTH TO FINISH THIS BOOK. WILL TESSA JEM *clutches heart*

At 1:30 AM Tuesday:
.............................................................*collects pieces of broken hearts* *glues the pieces together* Dear goodness, if a book can kill you, it's Clockwork Princess.

As you can see in that little diary above, Clockwork Princess is an emotional journey of love, heart-break, bonds and fighting for the ones you love. I'm sure you've read a gazillion reviews on this book and mine would probably end up saying the same thing; but Clockwork Princess is brilliant. It's beautiful, it's heart-wrenching and what's amazing about it is the book leaves you with beautiful lessons and notions such as how a strong bond does not have to be someone bonded to someone by blood, or that one can only love one person romantically in their whole life. Having one love is a great thing but to have two loves? It's magnificent. Even though the story is also dealing with Mortmain and his Infernal Devices, this story is not just about that. It's a whole lot more and this story of love, survival and bond is what shines from this book. Of course, as expected from Cassandra Clare, she gives you many surprises along the journey, breaks your heart and mends it by the ending. The epilogue is bittersweet and yes, I could not have asked for a more better epilogue than that.

Characters:
Uh-oh, this is a dangerous section. Why? BECAUSE...while I loved the story so much, the main reason why is because of the characters. I LOVE ALL OF THEM! (the protagonists ones only actually) Well certainly most of my love goes to Tessa, Jem and Will but Charlotte, Henry, Cecily, Gabriel, Gideon, Sophie and Magnus are such incredible characters I could not help but love their stories and moments. This book is not just Tessa, Jem and Will's. It's also theirs and together, all these characters create perhaps the best book from Cassandra Clare I've ever read.

*SPOILER WARNING*

However, I do have to dedicate a small piece of section to Tessa, Jem and Will. Thank goodness I've calmed down or else I would only be able to say ASJKFGHFGJHFGH which none of us can read certainly. So...*takes a deep breath* I'm sorry to say this but I'm still Team Will. I love love love Jem and even if I love Will more, I would selfishly defend Jem so that no harm can fall upon him. His frail beauty, his love for music, his pure heart and his ability to speak Chinese, is it even possible for anyone to hate him? Jem's will to live and fight for those he loves is like a bright star which refuses to die. His parabatai bond with Will is just...beautiful. Will and Jem's bond is unbreakable and they are two different people fused together with the same good heart and kindness.

"You are the first dream, the only dream I ever was unable to stop myself from dreaming. You are the first dream of my soul, and from that dream I hope will come all other dreams, a lifetime's worth."

Will, Will, William, the sound of your name itself warms my heart so much. Your blue eyes, how you used to be so broken, your curse, your love for words, your fierce love for Tessa, I have always loved you since Clockwork Angel. You are perfect for Tessa, never doubt that. I love how that ice façade of yours has slowly cracked and disappeared. Underneath it lies your beautiful, kind and selfless heart which is not a surprise for those who truly know you.

Tessa, I don't really know what to say besides how I adore you so much. Tessa is the epitome of a great female heroine who deals with everything in her life so well. Her ability to endure the hardships and her strong undying love for the people around her, she is amazing.

Overall:
Oh wow, that has got to be lengthiest review I've ever written! Anyway...Clockwork Princess is an epic conclusion to the Infernal Devices series. Cassandra Clare takes you on an emotional journey of love, heart-break, friendship and not to forget breaking your heart to pieces along the way and mending it towards the end. This probably sounds cliché but this is not a goodbye, Clockwork Princess. I can ensure you that this is the series I would be re-reading in the future so I can go through that emotional journey all over again. Thank you Cassandra Clare for writing this beautiful brilliant epic series.

5 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Clockwork Princess! (But honestly, I'd give all the stars in the constellations if I could to show how much I love this book)

Thank you Walker Books Australia for the review copy!

Check out the book trailer below!

#189 Book Review: Perfect Scoundrels

Perfect Scoundrels (Heist Society #3)
Release Date: 12 February 2013
Author: Ally Carter
Publisher: Hachette Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia
More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

Katarina Bishop and W.W. Hale the fifth were born to lead completely different lives: Kat comes from a long, proud line of loveable criminal masterminds, while Hale is the scion of one of the most seemingly perfect dynasties in the world. If their families have one thing in common, it's that they both know how to stay under the radar while getting-or stealing-whatever they want. No matter the risk, the Bishops can always be counted on, but in Hale's family, all bets are off when money is on the line. When Hale unexpectedly inherits his grandmother's billion dollar corporation, he quickly learns that there's no place for Kat and their old heists in his new role. But Kat won't let him go that easily, especially after she gets tipped off that his grandmother's will might have been altered in an elaborate con to steal the company's fortune. So instead of being the heir-this time, Hale might be the mark. Forced to keep a level head as she and her crew fight for one of their own, Kat comes up with an ambitious and far-reaching plan that only the Bishop family would dare attempt. To pull it off, Kat is prepared to do the impossible, but first, she has to decide if she's willing to save her boyfriend's company if it means losing the boy?

Cover:
Love how it matches the first and second book in the series! At first glance, I would not have noticed how there's an image of a guy in the girl's sunglasses which I assume is Hale and I absolutely adore it!

Story:

The greatest heist...yet?

I'm proud to say that when I started reading Ally Carter's books, I actually began with her Heist Society series. I did not know why I started with the series, perhaps because it sounded fun...fun..and..fun? But alas, I was hooked and so I also read Carter's Gallagher Girls series. While I love Gallagher Girls series too, Heist Society is actually my favourite Ally Carter's series!

Anyway..onto Perfect Scoundrels! I think this might just be the best Heist Society book yet! From the moment I first started, I was completely hooked (not that I was surprised since it's Ally Carter's writing after all). I was back with Kat, Hale and their lovely heist! It's been a while since I read Uncommon Criminals so I did not quite remembered what happened in that book but Perfect Scoundrels is definitely different. The stakes are higher and we finally get to know more about Hale (and I'm still curious about what W.W. stands for!) What stood out the most from this book is perhaps Ally's writing. It's so witty, clever, fun and I can never get enough. I completely enjoyed the book thoroughly and am already biting my nails waiting for another Heist Society book!

Characters:
Kat and Hale. Seriously, I want to be best friends with you guys. Why are you guys so awesome? Can I please be a part of your gang? Pretty please? I'm good with umm...reading?

I really admired Kat throughout the whole book! After all the events that happened, she remained strong and unwavering, which I thought was very admirable. While I always perceived Hale as the outgoing, amazing and side-kick companion to Kat, we see a different side to him in this book. Knowing more about Hale's family, his grandmother and the family's huge industry gave a different look to Hale. I never thought he was brought up in such family which can be quite intense. I also love how other characters from the previous 2 books appeared again in Perfect Scoundrels. Together, they make up the perfect team for the incredible heist they had to do in this book!

Overall:
Perfect Scoundrels is a combination of fun, excitement and even romantic at times too. Kat and Hale are back with an exciting story and certainly, the greatest heist yet! Ally Carter's writing is completely hooking and I absolutely can't wait for her next works. On a side note, Kat and Hale, you both rock!

5 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Perfect Scoundrels!

Thank you Hachette Australia for the review copy!

#184 Book Review: Unravel Me

Unravel Me (Shatter Me #2)
Release Date: February 2013
Author: Tahereh Mafi
Publisher: Allen & Unwin
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia
More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

Juliette has escaped to Omega Point. A place for people like her - people with gifts - and it is also the headquarters of the rebel resistance.

She's finally free from the Reestablishment, free from their plan to use her as a weapon, and free to love Adam. But Juliette will never be free from her lethal touch. Or from Warner, who wants Juliette more than she ever thought possible.

Haunted by her past, terrified of her future, Juliette knows that in her present, she will have to make some life-changing choices.
Choices that may include choosing between her heart - and Adam's life.

Cover:
I have to say, I'm disappointed with the Aussie cover. Shatter Me's Aussie cover was the original US cover but since US re-designed the covers (with the gorgeous eye!) I thought Aussie would use the same cover. I don't really like the girl's messy hair and the two guys beside her seems a bit too typical for a cover.

Story:

“I want so many things,” he whispers. “I want your mind. Your strength. I want to be worth your time.”

It's not a secret I love Shatter Me. Reading the book shattered me to pieces. (Yes, pun intended!) The end of the book made me love Adam but the gorgeous 'evil' Warner intrigued me so much. Then I read Destroy Me which made me switch to loving Warner. In Unravel Me, Tahereh Mafi's thrilling writing brings us a breath-taking sequel (I do mean literally breath-taking!) with a perfect blend of action and romance.

*inhales*..............*exhales* (Thank goodness I did not forget to exhale!) There are just so much to love in this book. Juliette, after escaping to Omega Point, finds difficulty in adapting with her new environment. Her power is still oh so strong but she has yet to embrace it. I have to admit, the first half of the book was not quite as gripping as the last half of the book. Had the book went on like the first half, this would have been a 4 stars read. BUT! Warner entered the story. Then it changed everything. The rest of the book was constant action, new discoveries and new problems. What I particularly adored besides Mafi's gorgeous and vivid prose is the romance. The action is still amazing but the romance in this book? MIND-BLOWING. (I am referring at you, Chapter 62. Thanks for blowing my mind and breaking my heart.) 

Characters:

Juliette has grown as a character since the events of Shatter Me. Although she has yet to embrace her powers (I can't really blame her since her powers are harmful), Juliette has overcome many problems. The only thing that made me annoyed with Juliette is her confused heart. She is still undecided about her feelings for Warner and Adam.

WARNER. Oh dear goodness, he is probably the best character in this book. After reading Destroy Me and gaining an insight into his character, the scenes between him and Juliette nearly destroyed me in Unravel Me. It was beautiful and also heart-breaking at the same time. Adam, who is still loving and kind towards Juliet no longer interested me as much as Warner. However, Mafi did reveal something huge and surprising about these two guys which I would not have predicted! I also adored Kenji. His character adds a touch of humour to the intense story. We also finally meet Warner's father. I can describe him with two words: pure evil!

Overall:

In this heart-stopping sequel, Tahereh Mafi brings us one step further into Juliette's journey in embracing her powers and facing the Reestablishment. The perfect blend of romance and action completely shines through Unravel Me with Mafi's gorgeous prose and writing. If you love Shatter Me, you are guaranteed to love Unravel Me! 

5 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Unravel Me!

Thank you Allen & Unwin for the review copy!

#183 Book Review: Through the Ever Night

Through the Ever Night (Under the Never Sky #2)
Release Date: 8 January 2013
Author: Veronica Rossi
Publisher: Atom (Hachette Australia)
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia
More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

Aria has struggled to build a life for herself outside Reverie. It hasn't be easy adjusting to life in the wilderness but that struggle has been worth it with Perry by her side. 

But Perry has other challenges. His people are looking to him for answers. Answers about what happened to his nephew and what's happening to their world. And they don't trust the priviledged Aria, one of the enemy, in their midst. 

Soon he'll be forced to chose between the tribe that looks to him for leadership and the girl that looks to him for love.

Cover:
While this cover does not match my copy of Under the Never Sky, the background looks cool! I still adore the US cover more but I like how the sky reflects the title of the book.

Story:

The search for Still Blue begins...

A year ago, I read a wonderful brilliant book called Under the Never Sky. With great story plot, balanced with the right amount of romance and action, Veronica Rossi's debut stole my breath away. I loved it THAT much but after reading Through the Ever Night? This might just be Rossi's best book yet.

Through the Ever Night focuses on Perry's life as a Blood Lord of Tides and the search for Still Blue. Life has changed for Perry. He now has a tribe to lead and take care of, becoming a barrier which prevents the freedom of his relationship with Aria. Aria is still considered the outsider and finds it difficult to ease her way smoothly into the hearts of the Tides. What stands out most for me in this book is the theme of love and friendship. This is reflected among many characters, including Perry, Aria, Roar and Liv. I particularly adored the scene where we finally meet Liv. If you read Roar and Liv, then you know their story. But! Rossi throws a jaw-dropping surprise towards the end of the book. Well, I might be exaggerating but I am THIS ready to read Into the Still Blue!

Characters:
While I still adore Perry and Aria's relationship, the friendship built between Aria and Roar is such a sweet thing! Now we know that Roar is meant for Liv, but his smooth-talking and kindness gives him the spotlight in this book. Perry still owns a majority of the spotlight, but part of it belongs to Roar and his story. The character development in this book is particularly major. We can see the change in Perry's attitude and behaviour; a mature development as he embraces his role of the Blood Lord of Tides. As for Aria, she continues to grow as a strong and calm heroine who willingly fights for her loved ones. In this book, we also meet Sable and while his description in the first book makes him appear as though he is an evil man, he is shown to be a quite likeable Blood Lord in Through the Ever Night. I also really liked Cinder even though he sometimes annoys me! But if I had to choose, I am definitely choosing Talon over Cinder!

Overall:
Through the ever night, will Perry and Aria's relationship withstand the storms of Aether? Through the Ever Night brings us one step closer to the Still Blue. While maintaining a great story plot, Veronica Rossi has written a fantastic sequel with impressive character development. Absolutely can't wait for Into the Still Blue!

5 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Through the Ever Night!

Thank you Hachette Australia for the review copy!

Check out the book trailer below!

#181 Book Review: Rebel Heart

Rebel Heart (Dust Lands #2)
Release Date: November 2012
Author: Moira Young
Publisher: Scholastic Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia | Dymocks
More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

They call her the Angel of Death. She defeated a tyrant but victory has come at a cost. Haunted by the ghosts of her past, she needs Jack. His moonlight eyes, his reckless courage, his wild heart. But Jack has left, and a ruthless new enemy searches for Saba across the Dustlands....

Cover:
JACK! JACK! JACK! I love the model in the cover. He represents Jack so well. Plus, the barren desert behind the guy captures the atmosphere of the dustlands. LOVE IT!

Story:

There's a price on Saba's head...

After reading Blood Red Road in the middle of 2012, I was fascinated with the intriguing premise and story of survival in the Dustlands. Moira Young's writing and story behind the book are fresh and unique, a new great addition to the world of YA. After loving Blood Red Road, I was worried about the sequel. Would it live up to my expectations? Rest assured, Rebel Heart is an absolutely thrilling book!

The ending of Blood Red Road left me with only one question: What would happen to Saba and Jack now? And the sequel definitely answered my question. Rebel Heart begins from Jack's POV. After a couple of chapters, the story switches back to Saba's POV so that'll be the only taste we get of the story from Jack's POV. Constantly, I was worried whether or not I will enjoy the story because Jack and Saba are separated in the book. However, Moira Young delivered an exciting story as Saba journeys to different places with her brother, Lugh. The book is more action-packed compared to the first book although I have to admit, Jack and Saba's moments together are the ones I've been waiting for while reading this book. The romance was bittersweet. The ending of Rebel Heart is satisfying although the last page before the story ends left me hanging with another question: OH NO, WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN NOW?

Characters:
Saba continues to prove to us that she is an amazing heroine who although is in love with Jack, can fight for herself and the troubles in the desert. She is after all, called the Angel of Death. At first, I really admired Saba but when 'something happened', causing her to lose her trust on Jack, she made a decision which 'changed' her life. I wanted to sympathise with Saba and I did feel sympathy towards her although her choice  in making the decision upsets me. Oh and let me give you a clue about this decision, it involves a guy called 'DeMalo'. DeMalo intrigued me in the beginning but I think the way he acts around Saba is a little bit too creepy. Meanwhile, Jack is still amazing. Sure, he was so 'secretive' in this book but his love for Saba shines and burns bright. Unfortunately, I disliked Lugh, Saba's brother. Also, it is interesting to note that I'm more and more used to the dialect of the book. It's not as strange as I thought when I first read Blood Red Road!

Overall:
Loved Blood Red Road? Then you definitely don't want to miss the exciting sequel, Rebel Heart! In this second book in the Dustlands series, Saba and Jack must journey to find each other, to prove that love is stronger than the Tontons and the evil that lurks in the Dustland. If you haven't read Blood Red Road? What are you waiting for? If you love books packed with action, adventures and romance, you will love the series!

5 Forget-Me-Not flowers for Rebel Heart!

Thank you Scholastic Australia for the review copy!

#180 Book Review: The Evolution of Mara Dyer

The Evolution of Mara Dyer (Mara Dyer #2)
Release Date: February 2013
Author: Michelle Hodkin
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Australia
Source: Publisher for Review
Format: Paperback
Where to Buy:  Fishpond | Booktopia
More Info: Goodreads

Summary:

Mara Dyer knows she isn't crazy. She knows she can kill with her mind, and that her boyfriend, Noah, can heal with his. Mara also knows that somehow, her ex, Jude, is not a hallucination. He is alive. Unfortunately, convincing her family and doctors that she's not crazy isn't easy. The only person who actually believes her is Noah. But being with Noah is dangerous and Mara is in constant fear that she might hurt him. She needs to learn how to control her power, and fast! Together, Mara and Noah must try and figure out how Jude survived the asylum collapse, and how he knows so much about her strange ability...before anyone else ends up dead.

Cover:
LOVE. GORGEOUS. LOVE. UNDERWATER! Forgive me for this random use of words but that cover is seriously gorgeous. I love how the girl's hand and the boy's hand is trying to reach other and how the photo is taken underwater of course!

Story:

“There will come a moment when there's nothing you want more than us. Together. When you're free of every fear and there is nothing in our way.” - Noah Shaw

MIND-BLOWN. Yep, this is the only word I can think of after finishing The Evolution of Mara Dyer. I am writing this review precisely 13 minutes after finishing the book. It is probably selfish for me to say this when I know that Mara Dyer needs more help than I do but helpmehelpmehelpmehelpmehelpmehelpme! I don't think my mind can work properly now because this is the question that lingers in my head : "What did I just read?"

I read The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer earlier this year and LOVED it. The mystery, romance and the intriguing premise were addictive. Now, The Evolution of Mara Dyer is still the same case, but maybe a bit different. I'm no longer intrigued by the premise. I NEED to know everything that happened. I have so many questions that are not yet answered in this book. Jude, who what are you? Mara, who are you? The story was absolutely hooking. I could not stop reading at all. I was reading the book at night and the wind outside was so loud, making the atmosphere creepy, chilling and haunting. The book is still written from Mara's POV although it jumps back and forth from the present and 'before'.  

I am thankful that I still know what was going on in the book because Hodkin throws in mysteries and unpredictable surprises in this book that I never thought I would keep up with. As usual, I love Michelle Hodkin's writing too. She captures the intense, vivid and haunting feeling of the book so well. The ending was a bit better than The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer. Not exactly a cliffhanger but helphelphelphelp I NEED The Retribution of Mara Dyer so desperately!   

Characters:

“If I were to live a thousand years, I would belong to you for all of them. If we were to live a thousand lives, I would want to make you mine in each one.” 

SHAW. Noah Shaw. Is it possible for anyone not to love you? Because I sure can't resist your arrogant, charming, swoon-worthy and romantic qualities. Plus, you're British. The accent! Yep, can't resist. Mara and Noah are probably the only characters in this book that stood out most for me. I felt sad for everything Mara  had to go through in this book. She thinks she's crazy but when Noah said these 3 words: I believe you, I immediately fell in love with Noah Shaw all over again. Noah is always very supportive of Mara and that makes everything so much better. I love his relationship with Mara and this confession:

“You can't hurt me the way you think you can. But even if you could? I would rather die with the taste of you on my tongue than live and never touch you again. I'm in love with you, Mara. I love you. No matter what you do.” 

Mara, I really really want to know what is going on with you. What are your powers? Can you actually kill someone with your mind? Then again, she doesn't really know what is going on with herself so hopefully book 3 is going to explain this! Noah, you have no idea how many times you break, mend and twinge my heart. As for the other characters, they're great but Noah and Mara for the win! And one thing, I hate Jude. What an evil guy.

Overall:
Loved The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer? Then you will not want to miss this mind-blowing sequel. The Evolution of Mara Dyer continues the mysteries revolving Mara and her life. And not to forget the AMAZING Noah Shaw. Just prepare to get scared, swooning and mind-blown with this epic sequel! Absolutely can't wait for The Retribution of Mara Dyer!

5 Forget-Me-Not flowers for The Evolution of Mara Dyer!

Thank you Simon & Schuster Australia for the review copy!

Check out the book trailer below!