Review: The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare

The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kit Tyler, an orphaned young girl, finds herself in a starkly different world upon arriving in the Connecticut Colony. The strict and austere Puritan community contrasts sharply with her vibrant Caribbean upbringing, leaving her feeling like a trapped bird. The only solace she finds is in the meadows, where she befriends the unconventional Quaker woman called the Witch of Blackbird Pond, and occasionally spends time with her sailor friend Nat. However, when Kit's association with the "witch" is exposed, she becomes the target of suspicion, fear, and accusations of witchcraft.

As an adult revisiting this book from my childhood, I found that it didn't quite live up to my memories. However, I still appreciated the engaging storyline and memorable characters that made it enjoyable when I first read it.

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Review: Captured (The Captive, #1) by Erica Stevens

Captured by Erica Stevens
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Aria, torn from her family and familiar woods, finds herself captured and facing a grim fate as a potential blood slave to the ruling vampire race. Her greatest fear is not death itself but being chosen for this horrifying role. Concealing her true identity from the monstrous captors becomes her paramount concern, as she is already marked as a rebel. Aria's involvement with the rebellion runs deep, a secret that must remain hidden from the vampires at all costs.

In a twist of fate, Aria's world is upended when a vampire named Braith intervenes and claims her as his own, postponing her execution. However, Aria knows that her reprieve is temporary, as Braith will eventually drain and destroy her. Complicating matters, she discovers that Braith is a prince from the royal family responsible for the war that led to humanity's downfall, reducing them to servitude and slavery.

Determined to harbor hatred towards the prince and resist him at every turn, Aria is astonished by Braith's unexpected kindness and gentle demeanor. Torn between her loyalty to the rebellion and her blossoming love for her greatest adversary, Aria wrestles with a monumental decision: choosing between the life she has always known and a love she never anticipated finding.

What a book! I loved it from the moment it started. The tension building up and the ending was amazing. I like the war that Aria had to battle within herself for what she had gone through her whole life and what she currently was feeling. This book had a slight Beauty and the Beast aspect to it and the back and forth between Braith and Aria was tension-filled.

I can't wait to read the second!

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Review: Arise by Tara Hudson

Arise by Tara Hudson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Amelia finds herself in a dangerous situation as dark spirits pose a threat to her loved ones. Determined to protect them, she resolves to take action. Meanwhile, Joshua, with his own motivations, agrees to meet Amelia at a cemetery in New Orleans. Together, they plan to partake in a significant ritual within the Voodoo Circle, fully aware that this decision will have lasting and transformative consequences.

While I found some aspects of the book engaging, it didn't quite live up to my expectations. One aspect that I appreciated was the continuation of the paranormal elements and the exploration of the ghostly world. The concept of ghostly abilities and the interaction between the living and the dead were intriguing and added depth to the story. The author's descriptive writing style helped to create a vivid atmosphere, immersing me in the supernatural world.

However, I felt that the pacing was inconsistent throughout the book. At times, the story moved at a slow pace, making it difficult to stay fully engaged. Additionally, I found some plot developments to be predictable, which diminished the element of surprise. I had hoped for more twists and turns to keep me on the edge of my seat.

Character development was another aspect that left me wanting more. While some characters showed growth and had compelling arcs, others felt underdeveloped and lacked depth. I would have liked to see more exploration of their motivations and inner struggles.

Despite its flaws, the book still provided an entertaining read.

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ARC Review: The Scarlet Veil (The Scarlet Veil, #1) by Shelby Mahurin

The Scarlet Veil by Shelby Mahurin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from HarperCollins Children's Books via NetGalley.

Six months after Célie embraced her sacred vows and became a huntswoman among the Chasseurs, she strives to establish her place alongside her fiancé, Captain Jean Luc. As they both work to safeguard their realm of Belterra, echoes of her past linger, and a fresh malevolence emerges, one that Célie must confront to prevent succumbing to its darkness.

I did not know this was a spinoff series, so I was quite confused when I started the book. However, I felt the author did an excellent job of explaining what had happened without the reader needing to read the previous series.

The protagonist, Celie, stood out to me, not as a typical weak character despite moments of self-doubt. Her true strength emerged through her bonds with friends. Although I had reservations about Michal initially, the author masterfully crafted a blend of tension and captivating moments between Celie and Michal when they were in each other's company.

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Review: The Carrie Diaries (The Carrie Diaries, #1) by Candace Bushnell

The Carrie Diaries by Candace Bushnell
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

"The Carrie Diaries" delves into the earlier years of Carrie Bradshaw, before she became a renowned social observer in the City. Set in her senior year of high school in suburban Connecticut, the story follows Carrie and her tight-knit group of friends, including Walt, Lali, Maggie, and the Mouse. Amidst the typical high school dynamics of popular Jens, jocks, and the privileged Jets, a new presence enters Carrie's life: Sebastian Kydd.

Sebastian is an intriguing and unpredictable older bad boy who captivates Carrie's attention. She embarks on the relationship she had always dreamed of having during her high school years. However, when a friend's betrayal shakes her world, Carrie begins to question everything she thought she knew. As her days in high school draw to a close, Carrie realizes it's time to pursue her deepest desires and go after everything she has ever wanted. This coming-of-age story unveils the transformative journey that shapes Carrie Bradshaw into the iconic figure she becomes.

Not as exciting as the whole Sex and the City exploits. Even though this IS a teen drama book I got fed up with all of the whining and ridiculous attitude of the characters. Maybe I am just getting too old to deal with this crap but it was overly much for me.

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Review: Haveli by Suzanne Fisher Staples

Haveli by Suzanne Fisher Staples
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In this powerful novel, we follow the courageous journey of Shabanu, a young Pakistani woman, as she confronts the oppressive grip of societal customs and ancient laws. At the age of 18 and a mother, Shabanu must navigate the complexities of her husband's household, constantly facing obstacles that threaten her position and autonomy. As she dreams of a better future for her daughter, she finds herself entangled in a forbidden love with Omar, defying the traditions that seek to separate them. Amidst the challenges and complexities, Shabanu's unwavering determination and love push her to defy societal expectations and fight for her own happiness.

I was so intrigued by the first book that despite not having to read it in middle school, like the first one, I wanted to continue on with the story. By the end, I liked the book a lot more than I had at the beginning.

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Review: Crescendo (Hush, Hush, #2) by Becca Fitzpatrick

Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In Nora Grey's life, challenges persist despite her encounter with a guardian angel who saved her from danger. Patch, her enigmatic and attractive guardian angel, has been behaving strangely, growing more elusive and spending time with her nemesis, Marcie Millar. As Nora tries to make sense of Patch's distant behavior, the return of Scott Parnell, an old family friend, further complicates her emotions. Although Scott's infuriating attitude draws her in, she can't shake the feeling that he's hiding something.

Haunted by visions of her deceased father, Nora begins to question whether her Nephilim heritage played a role in his murder. Determined to uncover the truth, she risks her safety by delving into dangerous situations. However, as she gets closer to the truth, she realizes that some secrets are best left buried, as they have the power to destroy everything and everyone she holds dear.

I did find the story entertaining with the progression of the facts. Other than that the story did not really do anything for me.  This book did not intrigue me as much as the first one. I felt myself just being annoyed with all of the characters. Nora was her usual whiny self with an annoying attitude and a self-serving attitude. Patch just pissed me off from the beginning I wanted to okay his reasons but he was just a jerk throughout everything. No one communicates with one another and they all just make everything worse for everyone in the long run. If Patch and Nora would actually talk to each other many of their problems really wouldn't be an issue.

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Review: Shabanu: Daughter of the Wind by Suzanne Fisher Staples

Shabanu: Daughter of the Wind by Suzanne Fisher Staples
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

"Shabanu" is a captivating novel that portrays the contrasting aspects of life experienced by the determined and independent young protagonist, Shabanu, in the Cholistan Desert of Pakistan. As the second daughter in a family without sons, Shabanu enjoys certain liberties uncommon for Muslim girls. However, when a devastating incident involving a wealthy landowner disrupts her sister's marriage prospects, Shabanu is faced with a difficult choice: to uphold her family's honor or follow the desires of her own heart. The novel explores themes of sacrifice, tradition, and individuality in a thought-provoking manner.

During my middle school years, I came across this captivating book that delved into the restrictions imposed on girls, which greatly fascinated me. "Shabanu" presented a unique narrative that I hadn't encountered before, offering an intriguing perspective. However, there were instances where I felt the story progressed too quickly, leaving me wanting more depth and exploration. Nonetheless, it was an engaging read that shed light on the limitations faced by young girls and provided an unforgettable reading experience.

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ARC Review: Suddenly a Murder by Lauren Muñoz

Suddenly a Murder by Lauren Muñoz
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group via NetGalley.

If an eye for an eye makes the whole world blind, be sure your eye is taken last.

To celebrate the end of high school, Izzy Morales and her close friend Kassidy, along with five others, embark on a 1920s-themed getaway at the lavish Ashwood Manor. Amidst vintage dresses and opulent diamonds, their festivities take a dark turn when Kassidy's boyfriend is discovered dead.

Declared a murder by investigators, the atmosphere at the manor becomes tense as every guest becomes a potential suspect. Among them, the profoundly enamored girlfriend, the desolate acquaintance, the melancholic old friend, the distressed newcomer, and the enigmatic presence, all fall under suspicion. And then, there's Izzy—the one who brought the knife!

In the midst of the looming suspicion, a grueling interrogation ensues as they remain confined within the estate. As innocence becomes the most valuable currency, the journey to unmask the murderer unfolds against the backdrop of this luxurious yet treacherous setting.

I'm quite fond of intriguing mystery novels, especially those that unfold in the midst of an ancient mansion nestled on a remote island. Izzy's character struck me as quite amusing; her demeanor resonated with a journalist's curiosity. The beauty of this situation is that every individual seems to possess a compelling reason, and the camaraderie within the group might not be as solid as it appears to the investigating authorities.

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Review: Cinder (The Lunar Chronicles, #1) by Marissa Meyer

Cinder by Marissa Meyer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cinder, a gifted mechanic in New Beijing, is also a cyborg. She's reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister's sudden illness. But when her life becomes entwined with the handsome Prince Kai's, she finds herself at the centre of a violent struggle between the desires of an evil queen - and a dangerous temptation. Cinder is caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal. Now she must uncover secrets about her mysterious past in order to protect Earth's future.

This story was an imaginative take on the classic Cinderella story. I like how the author was also able to weave in some other aspects of different fairy tales. I felt so bad for Cinder. There were definitely some heart wrenching parts.

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Review: Amber House by Kelly Moore

Amber House by Kelly Moore
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3.5 stars

Sarah Parsons inherits Amber House, her family's ancestral estate in Maryland, upon her grandmother's passing. Intrigued by the legends surrounding the house and the hidden diamonds within its walls, Sarah embarks on a quest with her friend Jackson to uncover its mysteries. To her surprise, the house comes alive, granting her visions of its past and the people who have inhabited it.

As Sarah delves deeper into the history of Amber House, she forms connections with both Jackson and Richard Hathaway, a young man whose family shares a tangled history with her own. However, as her supernatural visions intensify, they begin to pose a threat to someone she deeply cares about. Determined to protect her loved ones, Sarah must unravel the secrets of Amber House and alter the course of history before it becomes irrevocable.

This book was a mixed bag for me. While I didn't despise it, I also didn't fall head over heels in love with it. One aspect that bothered me was the inclusion of a love triangle, which seemed to divert attention from the main plot. The ending, however, was decent. I appreciated the fact that the characters were able to alter their circumstances and create a different life for themselves. It provided a satisfying conclusion to the story.

Overall, this book had its ups and downs. Although it didn't completely win me over, I found some aspects enjoyable, particularly the positive changes the characters experienced in the end.

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Review: Cornerstone (Souls of the Stones, #1) by Kelly Walker

Cornerstone by Kelly Walker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

There are always prices to be paid in a bargain. For Emariya it is marrying Torian Ahlen, the prince of a rival land, in exchange for rescuing her father. When secrets are further revealed about just who Emariya chose to put her trust in everyone’s lives might be in danger.

The storyline of this book is great. The fantasy and world-building take the reader on a journey that is easy to follow.

Even though Emariya was a little naïve I loved her courage and fortitude for wanting to be able to change the things around her and that she fought so hard for what she believed in. Those are all great characteristics for a main heroine to have. Torian was an okay character for me; I didn’t really get a sense of who he was.

Overall it was an interesting book that I would recommend for young adult fantasy lovers.

Note: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

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Review: Breathtaker by Harper Alexander

Breathtaker by Harper Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Breya was on the run from taking life but after 100 years she couldn't help it. When the urge took her she sucked the breath out of men extending her life, she was known as a breathtaker. Living all her life alone she has finally found a family that understands what she is going through.

This was a surprisingly refreshing read, I loved how the story progressed and the end! Just need to say wow about the end, it was awesome but I'm not sure how I actually felt about it. Caleko was not all-time favorite character of this story, he was charming and exactly what Breya needed in a lifetime devote of love. I will definitely be checking out the sequel to this book, I'm really excited to see what happens.

Note: I received this book off of amazon for free, all opinions have been honest.

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Review: Capturing the Devil (Stalking Jack the Ripper, #4) by Kerri Maniscalco

Capturing the Devil by Kerri Maniscalco
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Audrey Rose Wadsworth and Thomas Cresswell have landed in America, a bold, brash land unlike the genteel streets of London they knew. But like London, the city of Chicago hides its dark secrets well. When the two attend the spectacular World's Fair, they find the once-in-a-lifetime event tainted with reports of missing people and unsolved murders. Determined to help, Audrey Rose and Thomas begin their investigations, only to find themselves facing a serial killer unlike any they've heard of before. Identifying him is one thing, but capturing him---and getting dangerously lost in the infamous Murder Hotel he constructed as a terrifying torture device---is another.

Even though the timeline was a little off, I really enjoyed the way Maniscalco entwined the World's Fair story into the Audrey Rose and Thomas mystery. I was less thrilled with their particular personal story than I have previously been in the other three books.

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Review: Bite Club by Rachel Caine

Bite Club by Rachel Caine
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The book takes readers back into the captivating world of Morganville, where vampires and humans coexist in a delicate balance. In this installment of the series, the protagonist, Claire Danvers, finds herself facing new challenges and dangerous encounters within the vampire-controlled town.

Claire, a young student, continues to navigate the complexities of living in Morganville. She is determined to uncover the truth behind the town's dark secrets while balancing her relationships with her friends, who also happen to be vampires. As tensions rise and power struggles ensue, Claire must confront her fears and make difficult choices to protect herself and those she cares about.

While the book maintains the fast-paced and suspenseful nature of the Morganville Vampire series, there were aspects that prevented it from reaching its full potential. The plot felt somewhat repetitive, revisiting familiar conflicts and dynamics that had been explored in previous books. Additionally, certain character developments felt predictable and lacked depth, leaving room for further exploration and growth.

Despite these limitations, Caine's writing style remains engaging, capturing the essence of the Morganville universe and keeping readers invested in the outcome. The action sequences and twists in the story provide moments of excitement, keeping the narrative moving forward.

While the book offers an entertaining continuation of the Morganville Vampire series, it falls short in terms of originality and character development. However, fans of the series will still find enjoyment in reuniting with familiar characters and experiencing the dark and mysterious atmosphere of Morganville once again.

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Review: The Chaperone by M. Hendrix - ARC

The Chaperone by M. Hendrix
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from SOURCEBOOKS Fire via NetGalley.

In the controlled society of New America, Stella follows strict rules and lives under constant supervision. After her chaperone, Sister Helen, passes away, Stella is assigned a new chaperone, Sister Laura, who behaves differently and exposes Stella to forbidden experiences. As Stella spends more time with Sister Laura, she begins to question the purpose and effectiveness of the rules imposed by the Constables. Challenged by newfound freedom and unsettling truths about New America, Stella embarks on a perilous journey across the former United States, risking everything to fight against the oppressive world she knows.

This story was a rollercoaster of unsettling and thought-provoking moments that left me both intrigued and unnerved. It struck a chord with the issues we face in today's society, making it incredibly relevant. The mere possibility that events depicted in the story could actually unfold is utterly terrifying.

While the story had its merits, I couldn't help but feel that it had the potential to be even better. It left me wanting a more extensive narrative. Certain aspects felt rushed and underdeveloped, leaving me craving a more comprehensive understanding of the story's intricacies.

Review: The Shadow Sister by Lily Meade - ARC

The Shadow Sister by Lily Meade
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Sourcebooks Fire via NetGalley.

Casey's world is turned upside down when her sister Sutton goes missing. As she joins the search efforts, Casey grapples with her anger towards Sutton, unable to reveal their recent argument. Despite the perception of Sutton as a perfect and popular girl, Casey knows the truth about her sister's manipulative nature, even stealing from her. However, the disappearance of Black or mixed-race girls often goes unnoticed, and Casey is determined to find her sister, believing there is an angel in need of saving.

When Sutton mysteriously reappears, Casey's initial relief turns to unease. Sutton has no memory of her time away or her previous life, including the pain she caused Casey. Her behavior is unsettling, particularly her intense interest in spending time with Casey and observing her goldfish.

Driven by her growing suspicion, Casey embarks on a journey to uncover the secrets Sutton kept hidden. The more she delves into her sister's past, the more questions arise. Did Casey truly know Sutton at all? Why is there silence surrounding the other missing girls in their community? And what sacrifices will Casey have to make to uncover the truth behind it all?

This book had a plethora of well-crafted characters. Seriously, they were so on point, even the side characters stole the show. I loved how diverse and intriguing their backgrounds and motivations were. And let's talk about the main character's attitude towards her sister—hilariously relatable! It had just the right amount of teen angst to keep things interesting without going overboard. Kudos to the author for capturing that dynamic so well.

Now, let's talk about the resolution. I mean, come on! I needed more!

All in all, if you're a YA reader looking for a quick and easy read, this book will hit the spot. Just be prepared for some unresolved subplots and a villain that needs a serious upgrade. But hey, the characters and the magical elements will make it worth your while.

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Review: The Cellar by Natasha Preston

The Cellar by Natasha Preston
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

After the disappearance of sixteen-year-old Summer Robinson in the peaceful town of Long Thorpe, both her loved ones and the community are left shattered. The police launch a thorough search and investigation, but their efforts yield no leads or clues, causing hope for Summer's safe return to diminish.

Meanwhile, Colin Brown, a thirty-year-old solicitor with a troubled and abusive past, leads a solitary existence following his mother's passing. Adopting the name Clover, Colin grapples with a profound yearning for an ideal family and a moral compass. In his relentless pursuit of this elusive dream, Clover resorts to drastic measures.

This story encapsulates the journey of a young girl facing the perils of a cruel world. Although Summer's initial actions may have been unwise, her subsequent months were a testament to her unwavering strength and resilience.

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Review: The Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer

The Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

OVERALL: ~4.8 stars

Twilight (Twilight #1) - 5 stars
It took me until the fourth book in the series came out and my sister’s constant insistence that I read it to finally pick it up but I am VERY glad I did. Yes it is a sappy teen love story with vampires and werewolves mixed in but that is exactly why it is so good. The story is very heartfelt and interestingly developed with the characters experiencing and demonstrating a wide range of emotions.

Bella and Edward are fantastic together. Their level of depth and honesty towards one other rivals that of any adult novel I’ve read AND Meyers was able to exude sexual tension in abundance without having to resort to any sexually explicit scenes. With the absence of those the reader can actually feel the depth of emotional ties surrounding them. The secondary characters are fantastic as well. I have to admit to Alice being my all-time favorite just because of her quirky personality.

This book just puts me in a happy mood along with the accompanying movies. I will own them forever and keep reading/watching on a nice rainy day.

New Moon (Twilight #2) - 4 stars
I think this one was my least favorite out of the series but I see the reasoning for it. As you can probably tell I was 113% team Edward and I found his presence to be quite lacking in this.

Eclipse (Twilight #3) - 5 stars

Breaking Dawn (Twilight #4) - 5 stars
I thought this was a great ending to the saga. There was a lot of action and I liked the character resolution. I’m hoping for more at least ‘short’ stories about the characters to see where they go from here.

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Review: The All Souls Trilogy Boxed Set

The All Souls Trilogy Boxed Set by Deborah Harkness
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

OVERALL: ~2.7 stars

A Discovery of Witches (All Souls Trilogy #1) - 3.5 stars
Some points are a little boring and take a lot of time to explain. In this first book there could have been a little more editing done to make the pace less choppy and awkward for the main characters. The vampire/demon/witch relationship is confusing. After being cohabitation in the same world for so long how can there be so many misunderstandings over the most basic of things. I understand the total mistrust but you'd think there would be a little more give and take.

The relationship between Matthew and Diana was strained and extremely awkward in the beginning but it grew on me towards the end. Diana - I can't realistically conceive how she thought she was just flitting through life not using magic when it is abundantly pouring out of her.

This was an interesting take on creatures relationships and how people perceive the world around them.

Shadow of Night (All Souls Trilogy #2) - 2.5 stars
Once again the writing is pretty convoluted and does not flow with the story. I didn't like the fact that this one goes back into the past and the reader is overwhelmed with what is happening

The Book of Life (All Souls Trilogy #3) - 2 stars
There are too many characters, plot points are getting confusing. Soooo many questions just never got answered and it seems like what the whole two other books were focused and plot driven on didn't even matter in this one.

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