Book/Galley Review: Lost Prince by Julie Kagawa

Title: The Lost Prince

Author: Julie Kagawa

Series: The Iron Fey: Call of the Forgotten #1

Publisher: Mira Ink UK

How obtained: Netgalley

Will be published on Jan 6 2013 in the UK.

Don’t look at Them. Never let Them know you can see Them.

That is Ethan Chase’s unbreakable rule. Until the fey he avoids at all costs—including his reputation—begin to disappear, and Ethan is attacked. Now he must change the rules to protect his family. To save a girl he never thought he’d dare to fall for.

Ethan thought he had protected himself from his older sister’s world—the land of Faery. His previous time in the Iron Realm left him with nothing but fear and disgust for the world Meghan Chase has made her home, a land of myth and talking cats, of magic and seductive enemies. But when destiny comes for Ethan, there is no escape from a danger long, long forgotten

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When I found out Julie Kagawa was going to be writing about Ethan I spazzed. I was so excited! But after the original publication in the U.S. in October, I couldn't get my hands on it. Thank you Netgalley!

The book was everything that I hoped for. More of Julie Kagawa's writing. I swear that its addicting.

Ethan is afraid to hurt other people because of his sight, but we all know the more you try to stay away from something, the more ways it comes back to find you.

I love Ethan's character because he not only is badass, Julie Kagawa also lets us have peeks at his inner self, where he is afraid and where he still loves Meghan despite his outer facade. I respect him all the more. Sometimes to protect others and ourselves there will be a lot of wall building between the outside and the heart. I admire Kenzie and her bravery. That girl is seriously stubborn but she wouldn't of been able to get past Ethan's shields if she wasn't. She has my respect for being able to face the world of the fey even though she couldn't fight. But she made up for it in brains. She was just as kickass in the story as Ethan and Kierran.

Oh Kierran, if you read the Iron Knight, you know where this lovely far/human comes from. I was a little disappointed in Kierran. He was definitely a good fighter and he definitely had a big heart but he didn't shine the same way as Ethan and Kenzie did. Maybe it was because he did some stupid things
-_-.

Don't forget!!!! Meghan, Ash and Puck and Grimalkin are in it too! OH MY GOD I love the old characters. They didn't really have as big as a part but when they were introduced(and I guessed right) or whenever they appeared I fangirled.
Meghan makes a good queen. And Ash will forever be her love and knight.
Puck needs a love interest! But he's still our favorite prank-puller. <3 p="p">And must I say more about our lovely and sarcastic cat?

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will be equally siked for the next one. I give The Lost Prince a 9/10. I will forever love anything Julie Kagawa writes!

If YOU haven't read the Iron Fey series yet, get to it! You'll never regret it. :]

Read up a storm!

Book Review: Bitter Blood by Rachel Caine

Title: Bitter Blood

Author: Rachel Caine

Series: Morganville vampires #13

Publisher: NAL

How obtained: Library

For years, the human and vampire residents of Morganville, Texas, have managed to co-exist in peace. But now that the threat to the vampires has been defeated, the human residents are learning that the gravest danger they face is the enemy within…

Thanks to the eradication of the parasitic creatures known as the draug, the vampires of Morganville have been freed of their usual constraints. With the vampires indulging their every whim, the town’s human population is determined to hold on to their lives by taking up arms. But college student Claire Danvers isn’t about to take sides, considering she has ties to both the humans and the vampires.

To make matters worse, a television show comes to Morganville looking for ghosts, just as vampire and human politics collide. Now, Claire and her friends have to figure out how to keep the peace without ending up on the nightly news… or worse.

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I completely and utterly devoured this book. I've followed along with The Morganville Vampires series since the beginning and damn, I'm glad I did. Thirteen books in and Rachel Caine still manages to surprise us and literally keep us on the edge of our seats. There is definitely a lot to process from this book and I sat there for like five minutes after I finished, just digesting. So here's my review.

You would think that after the draug are taken care of, that our heroes could have some peace but that is not the case. A character from the past makes her reappearance and goddamn does she cause problems. I really love how Claire has grown. She went from a timid girl to one who isn't afraid to fight for all she wants and isn't afraid to get hurt to protect the ones that she loves. And we all know she loves Shane, Michael and Eve with all her soul.

This book broke my heart in some places, especially when Michael under influences(that will not be spoiled here) causes a rift between all the members of the house. Unfortunate as this was, we see that Claire is truly strong and truly ready to face the challenges thrown at her. Oh, Myrnin, my favorite wacky vampire. He didn't play as important of a role but he was crucial to the storyline. I'm glad he cares for Claire but seriously he's a little too old for her. He will always be her black knight but her black knight is not exactly what she needs.

It was very interesting to see the ghosts and humans of Morganville really have a role in the town. It was nice to see their strength but honestly, even given the circumstances, it doesn't give most of them the right to be asses.

Michael and Eve are married and it should of been a happy thing but they don't exactly have everyones blessing and this paints the whole glass house as targets. Their love is strong enough to survive but it really is them against the world.

Oh, I still respect Amelie but she pissed me off in the beginning of the book. It was like one of those people that you want to shake them until some sense dawns on them.

I give Bitter Blood a 10/10. I loved it. It wasn't flawless because there are some falters of pace but I loved the multiple point of views, the wittiness that Rachel Caine manages to stick in there and the tying of the characters together even more strongly.

Read up a storm! <3

Book Review: Hidden by P.C Cast and Kristin Cast

Title: Hidden

Author: P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast

Series: House of Night #10

Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin

How obtained: ebook

At last, Zoey has what she wanted: the truth is out. Neferet's evil has been exposed, and the High Council is no longer on her side -- but she's far from done wreaking havoc in the vampyre world. First, a mysterious fire ravages the stables. Then, Neferet makes a devastating move that will test them all.

With the seeds of distrust sown and Darkness breeding chaos at the House of Night, everyone must band together -- but that's proving to be more difficult than ever before. The twins are barely speaking and the House of Night's former enemy, Kalona, has now become their warrior, pushing their trust to the limit. To top it off, Zoey is pretty darn sure she might be losing her mind. She saw something when she looked at Aurox through the Seer Stone that she can hardly explain to herself, let alone her friends. Is it possible that Heath has come back in a different form? Is that why Zoey's so intrigued by Aurox, when it's so obvious that he's dangerous? And who would believe her if she told them? Zoey knows that following her instinct about Aurox might be just what they need to defeat evil . . . but if she's wrong, it could cause the destruction of those closest to her.

With the tension at a breaking point and friendships on the line, can the nerd herd come together to stop the spread of Darkness before it's too late?

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I know I didn't put up any reviews of the House of Night books but I literally read the first six in a week, like two years back and then followed along slowly as the others came out.

So the adventure with Zoey is far from over. Its kind of nice to have a long enjoyable series but sometimes it drags just a bit. I think that is why there is the mixing in of other people's POV. Its a nice touch because sometimes always being in the heroine's head can get to be boring and irritating when she's doing some stupid stuff.

Anyway, if you read up until this point you know that Auroux was created by that witch Neferet and is her device to try to harm Zoey in anyway possible. But Neferet didn't think that Heath would be making a comeback into the world of the living through another body. Hidden is really full of action and uncovering of secrets. Though I honestly think that the previous books were a bit better, this one wasn't that bad.

Kalona was being remorseful, and Auroux found his humanity in some sense. It was surprising that Erebus (Nyx's consort) showed up with hints of jealously. Like really? Kalona is the one thats banished and fallen to earth, the hero in charge of the sons of erebus should of been more, i dunno, honorable?
I still like Stark, he might be a bit possessive sometimes but I think he would be the best for Zoey. Even though Zoey can't make up her freaking heart about guys.

It was refreshing to read about Aphrodite and Darius again. Their relationship plus Stevie Rae and her man seem the most real. It was nice to meet Shaylin, but damn, I didn't think the twins Shaunee and Erin would end up like that.

Ugh, so much drama.


I give the book a 7/10. I read it because it was the next book in the series and though it added to the series as a whole, and there were some new and interesting plot twists, I think that the series should really come to an end soon. Peace of mind you know.

Read up a storm! :]

Waiting On Wednesday: With All My Soul by Rachel Vincent

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Title: With All My Soul
Author:Rachel Vincent
Series: Soul Screamers #7
Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Publication Date: March 19th 2013

What does it mean when your school is voted the most dangerous in America?

It's time to kick some hellion butt...

After not really surviving her junior year (after all, she did die), Kaylee Cavanaugh has vowed to take back her school from the hellions causing all the trouble. She's going to the find a way to turn the incarnations of Avarice, Envy and Vanity and the rest on each other. And so she–and her gang–make plans to protect her friends and finish this war, once and forever.

But then she meets Wrath. And Kaylee realizes that she's closer to the edge than she's ever been. Especially when one more person she loves is taken...

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I have followed this series from beginning to end and it has been an incredible experience. I love Rachel Vincent's writing and I'm so completely upset that the series is ending.

I really can't wait to see the final installment of Kaylee's world. I hope like the blurb, she indeed kicks some hellion butt. So this is what I'm waiting for.

What are you waiting for?

Galley/Book Review: Devil's Bargain by Rachel Caine

Title: Devil's Bargain

Author: Rachel Caine

Series: Red Letter Days #1

Publisher: Mira/ Harlequin UK

How obtained: Egalley

What's the price of a deal with the devil?

Playing by the psychic underworld's rules has cost.

Jazz Callender's whole life just got turned upside down. Her friend Ben's been convicted of a crime he didn't commit, and Jazz is determined to clear his name, even if it means enlisting the help of dark forces.

Enter James, a stranger with a mysterious offer. If Jazz pledges to work for The Cross Society, a shadowy secret organisation, he'll help her save Ben.

But as she's thrust into a world of psychic powers and dangerous magic, Jazz isn't just bargain for her friend's freedom. She's bargaining for her soul too.

And how high a price is she willing to pay?

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This was definitely a different kind of book then what I usually read of Rachel Caine's books. I adore her Morganville Vampire series because she has me totally loving Claire. And also her Revivalist series. I was really excited to get this on Netgalley :] My second request ever and it went through :3

Devil's Bargain was definitely a refreshing read. Jazz had me sold on the first chapter. She was witty, quirky, powerful and she wasn't afraid to be in a fight or get her hands dirty. I also liked that there wasn't just one heroine. I enjoy the comfortable and easy relationship that Jazz and Lucia fall into. Its like Lucia is the more sensible and carefully refined Jazz. They support each other and I believe that having such a strong friendship in a book is as important as having a good love interest.

And James Borden is just that. I like how the relationship between them was definitely more than met the eye from the very beginning but it was a slow, shimmering growth instead of an "oh my god, love at first sight" kind of love which works in man occasions anyway.

I don't like the cross society and I liked how the secrets were slowly explained and revealed one by one, but at the same time it left room for the reader to consider the possibilities. Jazz and Lucia really are dealing with the devil because the whole idea of how anything could effect a chain of events or even start one was cool to say the least. I loved the flow and power behind the writing and I expected no less from Rachel Caine.

Oh and on a side note, anyone whose read the revivalist series should notice that there are some characters that appear in this book that reappear in her later series. I was like oh my god, that was so cool, like she linked the stories in some way. ;] You gotta read it to find out.

It was definitely a worthy read and I think that the people in UK will love it. This book was originally published in 2005 here in the U.S so the galley I'm reviewing is actually the version that is going to be released in the UK. This egalley was provided by Harlequin UK through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I give this book a solid 8/10. I really liked it. I would love to read the second book because its about Lucia this time.

Read up a storm! :]

Waiting on Wednesday: The Indigo Spell by Richelle Mead

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Title: The Indigo Spell
Author: Richelle Mead
Series: Bloodlines #3
Publisher: Razorbill

Publication date: February 12th 2013

In the aftermath of a forbidden moment that rocked Sydney to her core, she finds herself struggling to draw the line between her Alchemist teachings and what her heart is urging her to do. Then she meets alluring, rebellious Marcus Finch--a former Alchemist who escaped against all odds, and is now on the run. Marcus wants to teach Sydney the secrets he claims the Alchemists are hiding from her. But as he pushes her to rebel against the people who raised her, Sydney finds that breaking free is harder than she thought. There is an old and mysterious magic rooted deeply within her. And as she searches for an evil magic user targeting powerful young witches, she realizes that her only hope is to embrace her magical blood--or else she might be next.

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Oh its no coincidence I picked this as my WoW right after I reviewed Last Sacrifice. I love anything and everything that is Richelle Mead. February seems so faraway :[, but I'm sure that this book is well worth waiting for.

So what are you waiting for?

Book Review: Last Sacrifice by Richelle Mead

Title: Last Sacrifice

Author: Richelle Mead

Series: Vampire Academy #6

Publisher: Razorbill

How obtained: Library

They come first.

My vision was growing dimmer, the blackness and ghosts closing in. I swore it was like I could hear Robert whispering in my ear: The world of the dead won't give you up a second time. Just before the light completely vanished, I saw Dimitri's face join Lissa's. I wanted to smile. I decided then that if the two people I loved most were safe, I could leave this world.

The dead could finally have me.

Rose Hathaway has always played by her own rules. She broke the law when she ran away from St. Vladimir's Academy with her best friend and last surviving Dragomir princess, Lissa. She broke the law when she fell in love with her gorgeous, off-limits instructor, Dimitri. And she dared to defy Queen Tatiana, leader of the Moroi world, risking her life and reputation to protect generations of dhampir guardians to come.

Now the law has finally caught up with Rose - for a crime she didn't even commit. She's in prison for the highest offense imaginable: the assassination of a monarch. She'll need help from both Dimitri and Adrian to find the one living person who can stall her execution and force the Moroi elite to acknowledge a shocking new candidate for the royal throne: Vasilisa Dragomir.

But the clock on Rose's life is running out. Rose knows in her heart the world of the dead wants her back...and this time she is truly out of second chances. The big question is, when your whole life is about saving others, who will save you?

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The vampire academy series is one of my favorite series of all time and even though I read all the books, I haven't put up any reviews. But I feel like I really needed to write a review for one of my favorite books of all time. I originally read it when it was first published but I recently just re-read it so its pretty fresh in my mind.

In this final installment of the Vampire Academy series, we have Rose who's being arrested for Tatiana's murder. The punishment for treason is death and none of us wants Rose to die. So our favorite lawbreaker does some more lawbreaking to try to help her best friend. It wasn't even to try to clear her own name because she trusted her friends back at court with that task.

This adventure takes Rose and Dimitri through many unexpected twists and turns, secrets that were uncovered in the previous book will be answered in this one and the whole time the relationship between our lovers seems to finally realize the fact that they were made for each other. I loved how the story would follow Rose in her noble and obviously dangerous escapades, and then we would also get to see how Lissa was doing. Oh, this last book was everything I hope for. It kept me hooked from the first page until the last and the whole ride was suspenseful, thrilling and wonderfully written and executed.

It was shocking to find out what actually happened to Tatiana and what started out as a ruse for time when Lissa ran for the throne. It is always sad when a series must come to an end, but Richelle Mead, could not of ended this lovely series any better. I loved it and hey, you can always go back and re-read the series when you miss it.

I give Last Sacrifice 9.5/10. I loved it. I hope everyone who followed the series until the end, loved it just like me. :] And if you haven't read the Vampire Academy series, what are you waiting for?! (gogogo :])

Read up a storm! :P

Book/Galley Review: Crimson Frost by Jennifer Estep

Title: Crimson Frost

Author: Jennifer Estep

Series: Mythos Academy #4

Publisher: Kensington

How obtained: Netgalley

Publication Date: Dec 24th, 2012

For a moment, a face flashed before my eyes—the most hideous face I’d ever seen. No matter how hard I tried to forget what had happened, I saw him everywhere I went. It was Loki—the evil god that I’d helped set free against my will.

I should have known that my first official date with Logan Quinn was destined to end in disaster. If we’d gotten into a swordfight, or been ambushed by Reapers, I’d have been more prepared. But getting arrested mid-sip at the local coffee hangout? I didn’t see that one coming.

I’ve been accused of purposely helping the Reapers free Loki from his prison—and the person leading the charge against me is Linus Quinn, Logan’s dad. The worst part is that pretty much everyone at Mythos Academy thinks I’m guilty. If I’m going to get out of this mess alive, I’ll have to do it myself…

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(Cover lust!) <3 So first off, I was practically jumping up and down in joy when my netgalley request got approved. Of course, I was looking forward to Crimson Frost anyway, so I would have waited like a good girl for the publication. This was my first request and approval so it's like a huge thing for me and my blog. I could not wait to dig into this book and it did not disappoint me.

This is my favorite of the four books. It wasn't that the other two weren't good, I loved reading them too but this is one took the proverbial cake. Gwen becomes a front and center main character who is showing her true confidence and strength. There were so many surprising twists and turns in Crimson Frost that will keep you from page one until the end.

The book starts with Gwen and Logan at a coffee shop finally on their adorable first date when she gets arrested. (Its not giving anything away because its in the blurb :]). Suddenly Gwen, who was already scarred from the ending of the previous book, is the object of hate at Mythos and the everyone is shouting for her blood. This ordeal definitely tests Gwen's limits and shows how true her friends are. I'm so glad that Gwen has friends that will always believe in her and have her back. She needs them because the reapers are suddenly trying to do something very terrible and plotting to take Gwen's life one way or another. Vivian Holler, Loki's champion just can't cut Gwen a break.

Gwen takes on the reapers along with the her friends who are amazingly well written supporting characters. I love Daphne and Carson's romance. I love how Logan supports her and shows that he really, truly cares for her. And even our Oliver might find someone special. (wink wink).

Crimson Frost reveals more about artifacts, and shows that Gwen makes a very capable detective and shows that she really understands what being a champion really means. Call me extremely sentimental but I teared at the end of the book. The ending was expected but also unexpected at the same time(don't skip the ending bonus!).

I give Crimson Frost a 9/10. It was my favorite of the three so far and I'm already looking forward to the next book. If you haven't already joined Gwen, you should pick up Touch of Frost and if you already had, definitely look forward to this fourth installment, fifth if you include the First Frost novella.

Read up a storm! :]

Waiting on Wednesday: Shadows in the Silence by Courtney Allison Moulton

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Title: Shadows in the Silence
Author: Courtney Allison Moulton
Series: Angelfire #3
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books

Date of Publication: January 29th 2013

Your strength in heart and hand will fall. . . . Ellie knows that the darkest moments are still to come, and she has everything to fight for:

She must fight for Will. The demonic have resorted to their cruelest weapons to put Will in mortal danger, and Ellie makes an unlikely alliance to save him and to stop Lilith and Sammael, who seek to drown the world in blood and tear a hole into Heaven.

She must fight for humanity. As the armies of Hell rise and gather for the looming End of Days, Ellie and her band of allies travel to the world’s darkest and most ancient regions in her quest to come into her full glory as the archangel Gabriel.

And Ellie must save herself. Her humanity withers beneath the weight of her cold archangel power, but Ellie must hold tight to who she is and who she loves as she prepares for the ultimate battle for Heaven and Earth.

In this final installment in the Angelfire trilogy, Courtney Allison Moulton brings her dark world of epic battles and blistering romance to a blazing bright conclusion.

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I'm absolutely in love with the Angelfire series. Been a fan of this series since Ellie's debut in the first book, and I would love to see how it all ends even though it is always sad to reach the end of a series.

What do you guys think? And what are you waiting for?

Book Review: The Golden Lily by Richelle Mead

Title: The Golden Lily

Author: Richelle Mead

Series: Bloodlines #2

Publisher: Razorbill

How obtained: ebook

Sydney Sage is an Alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of humans and vampires. They protect vampire secrets—and human lives.

Sydney would love to go to college, but instead, she’s been sent into hiding at a posh boarding school in Palm Springs, California–tasked with protecting Moroi princess Jill Dragomir from assassins who want to throw the Moroi court into civil war. Formerly in disgrace, Sydney is now praised for her loyalty and obedience, and held up as the model of an exemplary Alchemist.

But the closer she grows to Jill, Eddie, and especially Adrian, the more she finds herself questioning her age–old Alchemist beliefs, her idea of family, and the sense of what it means to truly belong. Her world becomes even more complicated when magical experiments show Sydney may hold the key to prevent becoming Strigoi—the fiercest vampires, the ones who don’t die. But it’s her fear of being just that—special, magical, powerful—that scares her more than anything. Equally daunting is her new romance with Brayden, a cute, brainy guy who seems to be her match in every way. Yet, as perfect as he seems, Sydney finds herself being drawn to someone else—someone forbidden to her.

When a shocking secret threatens to tear the vampire world apart, Sydney’s loyalties are suddenly tested more than ever before. She wonders how she's supposed to strike a balance between the principles and dogmas she's been taught, and what her instincts are now telling her.

Should she trust the Alchemists—or her heart?

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I had always liked Sydney even in the original Vampire Academy series. She always had that sort of cold, all business and no nonsense exterior but inside you knew she really did have a heart and a special love for cars. It was just the way she was brought up that made her like who she was. It was also nice to see the world of moroi and dhampirs from the eyes of a human, albeit a very special one. I know, I know Bloodlines is the first book in this series and I'm planning to write a review for that one as soon as I re-read it. The Golden Lily is much more fresh in my mind.

As we dive back into this book, we learn that Sydney saves Keith from another round of re-education courtesy of the Alchemists. We also learn that Adrian is really trying to be productive and trying to pretend like our badass, hot Dimitri isn't there. You didn't need to be a genius to know that seeing Dimitri was like throwing a punch in Adrian's gut but Sydney tries her best to get his mind off of this. Keith was not the last of their troubles though, apparently the claim of there being "vampire hunters" isn't as far off as it seemed (and that is where I stop. Got to read to find out! :]). Richelle really put the relationship between Sydney and  Adrian to a shimmer and then plays around with the heat setting a few times.

I love Sydney because she's so real. She worries about her weight all the time even though she's probably skinny and beautiful by human standards. In The Golden Lily she really starts to find the confidence within herself and trusts her own decisions. She starts to question her beliefs of whether or not Moroi and Dhampirs are really the evil creatures of the nights but she has to be careful because the Alchemists are still keeping an eye on her.

It broke my heart because we see Adrian pull himself together and face his father but watch as his father hurts him. I'm so glad Sydney is there to rescue him with a sugary icy drink!!

Remember what I mentioned about heat settings? Richelle throws in Brayden who seems like the perfect match for Sydney but honestly we all know who that is right?? ;] I think this side relationship helps Sydney realize even further what real feelings for another feel like.

THE ENDING

Oh my god. I felt like this was a serious roller coaster at the end. In no way it lacked for action. Richelle  Mead just has that special power to draw you into her world and completely captivate you from beginning to end. All I just have to say is that its heart wrenching and that you'll love Sydney and Adrian even more.

I give The Golden Lily a 9.5/10. One of my favorite paranormal YA fiction books/series by far. You have to pick this up if you haven't already and you should definitely look forward to The Indigo Spell. I have a feeling things are going to be A LOT more interesting and complicated. :]

Read up a storm :]

Book Review: Zombie Attack!: Rise of the Horde

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Book Review: The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa

Title: The Iron Knight

Author: Julie Kagawa

Series: Iron Fey #4

Publisher: Harlequin TEEN

How obtained: ebook

"My name--my True Name--is Ashallayn' darkmyr Tallyn. I am the last remaining son of Mab, Queen of the Unseelie Court. And I am dead to her. My fall began, as many stories do, with a girl..."To cold faery prince Ash, love was a weakness for mortals and fools. His own love had died a horrible death, killing any gentler feelings the Winter prince might have had. Or so he thought.

Then Meghan Chase--a half human, half fey slip of a girl--smashed through his barricades, binding him to her irrevocably with his oath to be her knight. And when all of Faery nearly fell to the Iron fey, she severed their bond to save his life. Meghan is now the Iron Queen, ruler of a realm where no Winter or Summer fey can survive.

With the unwelcome company of his archrival, Summer Court prankster Puck, and the infuriating cait sith Grimalkin, Ash begins a journey he is bound to see through to its end--a quest to find a way to honor his vow to stand by Meghan's side.

To survive in the Iron Realm, Ash must have a soul and a mortal body. But the tests he must face to earn these things are impossible. And along the way Ash learns something that changes everything. A truth that challenges his darkest beliefs and shows him that, sometimes, it takes more than courage to make the ultimate sacrifice.

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I was so completely and utterly siked for this book. The end of the Iron Queen had me pretty much crying. I was like, no, no, no, Julie Kagawa could not let them part like this. That is why I was soooo happy when I finally got the ebook. So this book is all about Ash, Puck and Grimalkin. Meghan sits back a little as she gets used to ruling over her iron kingdom and we got taken deeper into the Nevernever and find out exactly how a fae can obtain a soul.

I never doubted Ash's resolve. And we've followed Puck enough that he can never pass up a good adventure or make sure his princess is happy. He knows that if he helps Ash, he will be helping to make Meghan happy.

The Iron Knight in no way lacks for action, suspense and danger. It was really dangerous when an old friend popped into the story. I had no idea that this person would be coming back, and this person's love could of really been a catalyst for many things. I'm glad that our ice prince didn't lost sight of his goal but this book was in many ways heartbreaking and tear jerking.

Through the trials, we learned what kind of person Ash was in the past, something that always was hinted at. The tests were brutal on the psyche. But it didn't surprise me that he made it through everything and still chose what he did. Love is a power that transcends many things.

The last scene had me jumping up and down. I could not believe it. I was so soooo excited and happy.

I give The Iron Knight 9/10. I was so sad that I finished the book. And those are the kinds of books that are worth reading. If you followed the Iron Fey series until now, this will not disappoint you. You'll love it!

Read up a storm! :]

Book Review: Shadow Sight by E.J. Stevens

Title: Shadow Sight

Author: E.J. Stevens

Series: Ivy Granger #1

Publisher: Sacred Oaks Press

How obtained: Ebook

Welcome to Harborsmouth, where monsters walk the streets unseen by humans…except those with second sight, like Ivy Granger.

Some things are best left unseen...

Ivy Granger's second sight is finally giving her life purpose. Ivy and her best friend Jinx may not be raking in the dough, but their psychic detective agency pays the bills--most of the time. Their only worry is the boredom of a slow day and the occasional crazy client--until a demon walks through their door.

Demons are never a good sign...

A demon attorney representing the water fae? Stranger things have happened. And things are about to get very, very strange as a bloodthirsty nightmare hunts the city of Harborsmouth.

There's blood in the water...

Kelpies have a reputation for eating humans. Unfortunately, Kelpies are the clients. When an Unseelie faerie this evil stalks the waterways of your city, you have to make hard choices.

The lesser of two evils...

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Book Review: Touch of Frost by Jennifer Estep

Title: Touch of Frost

Author: Jennifer Estep

Series: Mythos Academy #1

Publisher: K-Teen

How obtained: Ebook

My name is Gwen Frost, and I go to Mythos Academy; a school of myths, magic and warrior whiz kids, where even the lowliest geek knows how to chop off somebody's head with a sword and Logan Quinn, the hottest Spartan guy in school, also happens to be the deadliest. But lately, things have been weird, even for Mythos. First, mean girl Jasmine Ashton was murdered in the Library of Antiquities. Then, someone stole the Bowl of Tears, a magical artifact that can be used to bring about the second Chaos War. You know, death, destruction and lots of other bad, bad things. Freaky stuff like this goes on all the time at Mythos, but I'm determined to find out who killed Jasmine and why; especially since I should have been the one who died...

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Loving all things paranormal when I found out that there was a book about gods and goddesses mixed together, I set out to read Touch of Frost.

Gwen, our main character is introvert and would rather keep to herself. I don't blame her especially when her magic is so personal even if she doesn't want it to be. Going to a new school is definitely tough, going to a school where everyone's powers seem cooler, more useful is even tougher. Psychometry is touch magic, in which Gwen gets the psychological impressions on. Then she gets thrown into more isolation when she was the girl that survived in an attack that killed popular chick, Jasmine.

But I feel that Gwen is a character that can find her worth. Originally reading on Gwen, you would feel like she might be a character that would fade into the background but she definitely gets stronger, her powers get explained more and of course getting the attention of the school hottie is a plus. Logan Quinn is definitely hot, throw in his reputation and his spartan genes of being able to pick up anything and use it as a weapon, he's pretty manly. 

Daphne definitely was a surprise. Valkyrie (super strength/warrior chick) with the brain of a computer nerd. And Carson, the band geek. Oh my gosh, it was going to be the cutest side romance.

Gwen needed a powerful, smart, girly friend like Daphne to give her some courage to be strong. 

Touch of Frost really opens up the story and allows for us to learn about the truth of so many things. Some that you would not of guessed so that makes me want to stay tune for Kiss of Frost. :]

I give Touch of Frost an 7.5/10. Its a good read and a book worth picking up if you are interested in mythical beings. Jennifer Estep takes us into the world of gypsies, spartan, valkyries, amazons and vikings. 

Read up a storm! :P

Book Review: The Immortal Rules by Julie Kagawa

Title: The Immortal Rules

Author: Julie Kagawa

Series: Blood of Eden #1

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

How obtained: Ebook

"In a future world, vampires reign. Humans are blood cattle. And one girl will search for the key to save humanity."Allison Sekemoto survives in the Fringe, the outermost circle of a vampire city. By day, she and her crew scavenge for food. By night, any one of them could be eaten.

Some days, all that drives Allie is her hatred of "them." The vampires who keep humans as blood cattle. Until the night Allie herself is attacked--and given the ultimate choice. Die...or become one of the monsters.

Faced with her own mortality, Allie becomes what she despises most. To survive, she must learn the rules of being immortal, including the most important: go long enough without human blood, and you will go mad.

Then Allie is forced to flee into the unknown, outside her city walls. There she joins a ragged band of humans who are seeking a legend--a possible cure to the disease that killed off most of humankind and created the rabids, the mindless creatures who threaten humans and vampires alike.

But it isn't easy to pass for human. Especially not around Zeke, who might see past the monster inside her. And Allie soon must decide what--and who--is worth dying for.

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I had read got a hold of this book when it was first released and I know I'm late with my review but I feel like I needed to write one. I had written a really detailed one on Goodreads but the page failed to load and all was gone :[. 

Okay, first things is first, when I think about Julie Kagawa, my mind goes to the Iron Fey series and all its excellent glory. She did the most wonderful job with the fey and I will forever love, Meghan, Ash and Puck. When I first heard that she was writing a vampire story, I was excited. I know the vampire world has been greatly expanded on and there are many, many good books out there. I wanted to see with Julie Kagawa could do with them and she did not disappoint me.

I could not put this book down for multiple reasons, my top three if I had to pick would be:

1) Badass asian main character who can use a katana

2)A love story but not a love story

3)I just love it! (haha)

I don't know if you've watched the show The Walking Dead before or the movies of Resident Evil, but its like Julie Kagawa picked out the the best of both and merged them together. I was in love with this story. 

I love dystopian societies and for this dystopian society to be set in the future of North America is even better. Allie is a survivor, there is no doubt about that. She picked a fate she didn't originally agree with so she could live. Some might call that hypocritical but I didn't see it that way. She wanted to live because she wanted to do more with her life. Kanin gave her that chance and I was sad that the time they had together was so short. He was her teacher, creator and I wished they could of had more time but already Julie's next book promises that their paths will cross again.

I love how Allie is smart, she uses her brains and steels her heart instead of becoming a bag of emotions. Yes, she experiences what all people feel despite being changed into a different species and I can understand the difficulty of transition but props to her for not wanting to just a mindless monster. She finds it hard to control her hunger and the vampires are by no means invincible. A few blows that draw blood and that could send them over the edge of bloodlust. The dark element of the species itself is definitely there and Allie fights it to keep shreds of her humanity while not completely denying what she had become.

There is by no means a lack of action and standoffs. There will definitely be blood drawn and not just by our main character. 

What I meant by a love story that isn't really a love story can be summarized in one word: Zeke.

He really made me think that he was kind of an angel. He still held a very pure heart even though the world fell apart into this unequal balance and even with the constant threat of rabids and vampires, he sees the good in people. That is probably his best trait and worst. Cliche, I know.

Allie and Zeke definitely had moments but the The Immortal Rules was just made better by this element of romance. The book would not of lacked if romance wasn't there because the world that was created was just that powerful. 

I give The Immortal Rules a solid 9/10. I love it! Please read it, if you can get your hands on it. You'll fall in love with it too. Trust me on this, the book will get you hooked so leave time aside so you can just senselessly read because you won't want to put it down :]

Read up a storm! :P

Book Review: Before I Wake by Rachel Vincent

Title: Before I Wake

Author: Rachel Vincent

Series: Soul Screamers #6

Publisher: Harlequin

How obtained: Bought Ebook

I died on a Thursday—killed by a monster intent on stealing my soul. The good news? He didn't get it.

The bad news? Turns out not even death will get you out of high school…

Covering up her own murder was one thing, but faking life is much harder than Kaylee Cavanaugh expected. After weeks spent "recovering," she's back in school, fighting to stay visible to the human world, struggling to fit in with her friends and planning time alone with her new reaper boyfriend.

But to earn her keep in the human world, Kaylee must reclaim stolen souls, and when her first assignment brings her face-to-face with an old foe, she knows the game has changed. Her immortal status won't keep her safe. And this time Kaylee isn't just gambling with her own life….
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I've been totally meaning to write a review for this book for a while, and now since I'm getting back to my poor neglected blog, I want to start with a review of one of the books from an author that I always enjoy.

Up until this point, I actually would have never believed the turn of events and I don't want to specify completely, in case someone who hasn't read the previous books is reading my particular review. (There will be mild spoilers so please read at your own caution! :])

Kaylee has grown strong but at the same time, I can't help thinking she is a bit weak in the beginning of If I Die. It isn't easy for her to face the things she has done but I think she lacks some of the strength that I felt she had in the earlier books. I love the fact that she finally found the boy...um excuse me, man she's been searching for. They really do complete each other and the more I read about them both, the more I feel like Rachel Vincent made a good choice. Todd is definitely hot and even though I used to love Nash, I think Nash really did mess up. He needs to fix his mistakes and realize that there are wounds that can never be healed. Nash can be angry but that doesn't give him an excuse to do the certain things that he did.

SO ON TO THE NEXT PART!

Kaylee's new job is cool to say the least. She reclaims lost souls using the bean sidhe powers that she had when she was living. At first I didn't get how her powers stayed with her even after death but I realized that her body and soul being intact, it wasn't completely that much different from her being alive, save for the breathing and reaper abilities.

Avari makes me mad (he should just stay on his side of the netherworld) but he's definitely the villain that has been created and set up to be the main antagonist to Kaylee's protagonist. Because Rachel Vincent writes so uniquely about banshees, she can twist the magical properties and abilities and let me tell you, the whole using the souls of the revived is ingenious. 

This book will have you smiling, frowning, feeling sad and most of all eager for the next installment.

When book series get long, they lose some of their luster and even though The Soul Screamers have went on for a while, I feel like we just get to know about the characters more in depth. Of course the main characters are all well established, but that is when we realize, we have more to learn and experience with them. 

OMG THE ENDING!!!!!

When I said making you eager to read, I'm not kidding. We got an angry Kaylee on our hands and she is ready to fight back, I could practically feel the fire to fight within her re-spark and that was really something I was looking forward to. Now with her friends by her side, we got an angry bean sidhe girl that wants payback. So reading the next book With All My Soul is a MUST!

I give If I Die an 8/10. I loved it, like I love all Rachel Vincent books but I think that If I Die really just set up for the next book. It was suspenseful and an awesome read so readers should not miss it! 

Read up a storm guys ;] PEACE