Review: Fated by Sarah Alderson

Title: Fated
Author: Sarah Alderson
Published: January 5th 2012
Publisher: Simon and Schuster UK
Read Synopsis: Goodreads

Rating: 3.75/4 stars

The first novel I've read of Sarah Alderson was Hunting Lila and I enjoyed it so much. I was really amazed on how she wrote the story and she instantly became one of my favorite authors then. So when I read a featured excerpt of Fated by the end of Hunting Lila I was instantly hooked up. I had it on my to-read list right away and had become one of my most anticipated reads for 2012. And finally I've read it! Although I did notice some flaws in this book I still find this really gorgeous. With all its awesome characters, exciting twists, and unique paranormal plot I really did have a lot of fun reading this!!

This was written in third person, narrating both Evie and Lucas point of views. I really loved reading a book in multiple POV. Having both perspective made it easier to connect with them and understand the situation. I adore Evie. She could be really whinny and naive at times and sometimes it could be really annoying but with all she'd been through I think it was pretty understandable. But still she was a kick ass heroine. Although she had not known the truth about her family until she was attacked by the Unhumans and nearly died, she was able to handle and accept it boldly. She's strong, determined and wasn't afraid to say things and her thoughts. 

Well, Lucas, from the first time you heard his thoughts you would instantly know he was different. He was nothing like the Unhuman he was supposed to be. The way he thinks and acts - when he first time he saw the picture of Evie, when he realized what he feels and want to do, when he became so determined on protecting Evie, when he was so willing to sacrifice himself - you would really fall hard for him (though I must say I fell harder for Alex in Hunting Lila). And aside from that, of course he was a total mind candy. He was absolutely hot and drool worthy. 

I loved how Lucas and Evie's relationship developed. It wasn't at all an insta-love but there was an insta-attraction that both characters tried to fight and rationalize the first time they felt it and until they can't keep it anymore. We weren't rewarded with a kiss scene right away but when it came... oh boy was it steaming hot!

The paranormal plot here was also interesting. The Unhumans (demons) were Lucas belongs were creatures from other realms - scorpio demons, mixen, thirsters, psych, shapeshifters and shadow warriors - which I really enjoyed learning about. The Hunters, were Evie belongs were the one who hunt and kill the Unhumans preventing them to spread out and take over the human realm. There wasn't really a good and bad side here. I kinda figured that out during the last parts. Both sides have their own wrong and incorrect ways. So were left not to side with anyone but only to Evie who made a choice to stop it - not siding with anyone and not as a Hunter.

One thing I so noticed Anderson was so good about was writing an action scene. She did it in Hunting Lila that I seriously felt like I was watching and action-packed movie. The whole time I was tensed and excited. And she did it here again. The way she wrote it would make you imagine it so vividly and you absolutely be engrossed. 

Stop right here if you haven't read this yet. The following paragraph could be a little spoilery. 

Alright, you might wonder why I gave it a rating like 3.75 leaning to 4 when all I've said about it were positive. I was actually a little torn. As I have said earlier I think there were little flaws I noticed in this book. Well, maybe it was just me but there were parts that I think were pretty obvious that Evie should have figured it out already or at least doubted it. But she didn't and she was like really clueless. And also the when Lucas told Jocelyn how he felt for Evie and that he would betray the brotherhood for her, Jocelyn believed him right away, which I think was pretty fast since she was a hunter. Yet when Evie thought Lucas betrayed her Jocelyn didn't defend him. I guess they had a deal since Lucas believed that Evie should hold on to anger than on numbness and with that she'll continue to fight. I was a little confused though before realizing that. But the entirety  of the book was really good that I can over see those little flaws and still love the book. 

Overall, this was a really fun and thrilling read! Anderson did a really good job again. This was a lot different from Hunting Lila but Anderson's captivating writing stayed the same and still as good as in Hunting Lila. Looking forward for the next book and more books from this great author. ^^ 

Wating on Wednesday (#5)

"Waiting on Wednesday" is a weekly event hosted by Jill from Breaking the Spine, that spotlight upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating. This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" is..

Insurgent (Divergent #2)

by Veronica Roth

Expected publication: May 1st 2012 

One choice can transform you—or it can destroy you. But every choice has consequences, and as unrest surges in the factions all around her, Tris Prior must continue trying to save those she loves—and herself—while grappling with haunting questions of grief and forgiveness, identity and loyalty, politics and love. 

Tris's initiation day should have been marked by celebration and victory with her chosen faction; instead, the day ended with unspeakable horrors. War now looms as conflict between the factions and their ideologies grows. And in times of war, sides must be chosen, secrets will emerge, and choices will become even more irrevocable—and even more powerful. Transformed by her own decisions but also by haunting grief and guilt, radical new discoveries, and shifting relationships, Tris must fully embrace her Divergence, even if she does not know what she may lose by doing so. 

New York Times bestselling author Veronica Roth's much-anticipated second book of the dystopian Divergent series is another intoxicating thrill ride of a story, rich with hallmark twists, heartbreaks, romance, and powerful insights about human nature.

Spell Bound (Hex Hall #3)

by Rachel Hawkins

Expected Publication: March 13th 2012

Hailed as “impossible to put down,” the Hex Hall series has both critics and teens cheering. With a winning combination of romance, action, magic and humor, this third volume will leave readers enchanted.

Just as Sophie Mercer has come to accept her extraordinary magical powers as a demon, the Prodigium Council strips them away. Now Sophie is defenseless, alone, and at the mercy of her sworn enemies—the Brannicks, a family of warrior women who hunt down the Prodigium. Or at least that’s what Sophie thinks, until she makes a surprising discovery. The Brannicks know an epic war is coming, and they believe Sophie is the only one powerful enough to stop the world from ending. But without her magic, Sophie isn’t as confident.

Sophie’s bound for one hell of a ride—can she get her powers back before it’s too late?

Review: Hallowed (Unearthly #2) by Cynthia Hand

Title: Hallowed
Author: Cynthia Hand
Published: January 17th 2012
Publisher: HarperTeen
Read Synopsis: Goodreads


Rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a heart warming and heart breaking book. I didn't expect that this would be really emotional but I guess everything that happened this time contributed a lot for the development of each characters. But I was still definitely stunned and surprised by all the unexpected twists and revelations. The writing was really good that I was so consumed I finished it in one sitting. I was awed and devoured on how everything turned out this time but the ending left me really sad and with a big "what now?" question in my head 'cause I don't have any idea on what's gonna happen next.

To be honest, I was pretty annoyed to Clara during the first parts with all the "Tucker is my future", "I love Tucker", "I own't let him die, I'll fight my purpose" thing. And I guess I was just reacting like that because I'm on team Christian. Yeah, it was silly of me to feel like but that's just what really happens to me if I liked the other guy in a love triangle that's why I really avoid them, it affects my freaking judgement to the heroine. But anyway, it was only during the first parts. As the story progressed, I saw Clara's character developed too. She was confused between the things she wanted and her purpose. But as things started to get thrown in her she was able to handle them strongly, especially the situation with her family - her mom and Jeffrey. 

I love Clara's relationship with her mom. And her mom was definitely the coolest mom I've ever met in the YA world. That it was really devastating when we realized what Clara's vision really was. In Unearthly, I was very amused with Jeffrey and Clara. I love their sibling fights and love but I have really no idea what's happening with Jeffrey. He was one of my favorite characters in this book and it was just sad seeing that their family looks like falling apart. I just wish that Jeffrey wouldn't go in the wrong side and direction.  

Even though I've been on team Christian since the beginning it doesn't mean that I wouldn't feel heartbroken on how things ended between Clara and Tucker. It was just so sad during the last part especially when Clara read his emotions. I saw how much he loves Clara and how Clara loves him as well. And I know even it was really heart breaking Clara did the right choice. Loving someone doesn't mean staying with them forever but learning to sacrifice and letting them go to keep them safe and better.

I learned a lot about Christian here and it just really made me pretty happy. I was actually surprised with all the revelations about him and that made me love him more. lol. He's smart and mature and I love how he explained why he broke up with Kay even if he loved her. He was very supportive of Clara and was always at her side every time. You might have think that I might be celebrating right now since Christian was pretty leaning forward but no, not really. Yes, I was happy I saw a lot of him now and I still want him for Clara but I also felt Clara's lost and sacrifice that it was just hard to be totally happy about it. 

This was a story of acceptance and letting go. And it was inspiring in many ways. I really don't know what's gonna happen next but I am really looking forward for the next book. 

*And yeah, I heard there will be TV series adaptation of this book? Wow, that was just awesome! Let's hope it sticks with the original story. :))

Waiting on Wednesday (#4)

"Waiting on Wednesday" is a weekly event hosted by Jill from Breaking the Spine, that spotlight upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating. This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" is..

Cursed

by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Expected publication: September 18th 2012 

by Spencer Hill Press

Dying sucks--and high school senior Ember McWilliams knows firsthand. After a fatal car accident, her gifted little sister brought her back. Now anything Ember touches dies. And that, well, really blows. 

Ember operates on a no-touch policy with all living things--including boys. When Hayden Cromwell shows up, quoting Oscar Wilde and claiming her curse is a gift, she thinks he’s a crazed cutie. But when he tells her he can help control it, she’s more than interested. There’s just one catch: Ember has to trust Hayden's adopted father, a man she's sure has sinister reasons for collecting children whose abilities even weird her out. However, she’s willing to do anything to hold her sister's hand again. And hell, she'd also like to be able to kiss Hayden. Who wouldn't? 

But when Ember learns the accident that turned her into a freak may not've been an accident at all, she’s not sure who to trust. Someone wanted her dead, and the closer she gets to the truth, the closer she is to losing not only her heart, but her life. For real this time.

Yup! Another Jennifer Armentrout book! Since I've read Half-blood and Obsidian, Armentrout easily became one of my most favorite authors and because of that her books has become a must read for me too. She has proved a really great skill in writing YA paranormal books so I'm really looking forward for this one. Can't wait to meet Ember! :))

Review: Amy and Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson

Title: Amy and Roger's Epic Detour
Author: Morgan Matson
Published: May 4th 2010
Publisher: Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing
Read Synopsis: Goodreads

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Wow! I feel like I just had an epic road trip all over America and witnessed a very cute and sweet love story! Amy and Roger's Epic Detour was a very fun, sweet and easy read that offered me not just a heartwarming story but also an unforgettable trip which - from where I am now - is quite impossible to have (I'm technically on the other end of the earth from America. XD) but nevertheless I absolutely enjoyed it, like I was really seeing and discovering things too. And you see, I'm actually majoring in tourism management so this is definitely my kind of book, it has two of my most favorite things in the world - a story and travel. 

Amy was miserable. She thought her life sucks and she blamed herself from the car accident that cost her dad's life. Her mother decided to move from California to Connecticut and start all over again. So Amy embarks a road trip together with Roger - son of her mom's old friend which she barely knew - across the country. Through the trip, both Amy and Roger discovered, realized and learned a lot of things. 

It was easy to connect and relate with Amy. The feelings she had - anger, sadness, and guilt - was very well pronounced that it was like you know exactly how she felt. I love how in every places they stopped by she learned and realized new things, about the place of course but also about her self. As their road trip went farther, Amy's character began to developed and started opening up. And also started having feelings for Roger. I loved the part when she was finally able to drive again and tell everything that happened during the accident to Roger. 

Roger was a fun and easy-going character. I liked him in an instant (like I don't do that in all male lead characters. XD). Well, who wouldn't want a guy who would travel across the country just to get a girl back? Yes, that was his reason why he decided to join Amy with the road trip which was kind of Wow and Aww. But it did change as he, like Amy, discovered and learned things and started really caring for her and liking her too. And those moments between the two were definitely swoontastic! I loved loved loved every bits of it! Morgan Matson did a very great job in developing both characters and their relationship.

Other things I love about this book was by making it look like a scrap book. I loved the post-its and receipts, the photos, and of course, the mixes. It was easier to picture and imagine the things and places described in the book. It also adds to the feeling that you were like with them too, traveling. I laughed, teared-up a little, swoon and smiled a lot in this book. I wouldn't really mind if the book was longer, I definitely want more of Amy and Roger. This is an epic and fantastic read! I highly recommend this! :))

“The best discoveries always happened to the people who weren't looking for it. Columbus and America. Pinzon, who stumbled on Brazil while looking for the West Indies. Stanley happening on Victoria Falls. And you. Amy Curry, when I was least expecting her." -Roger Sullivan 

Review: The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith

Title: The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight
Author: Jennifer E. Smith
Published: January 2nd 2012
Publisher: Poppy
Read Synopsis: Goodreads

Rating: 3.75 stars of 5 stars

This book was one of my most anticipated book this year and I was glad that it was an enjoyable read. However I wasn't totally overcome by it than what I had expected it would do. The title could be a little bit deceiving 'cause the story wasn't very much actually about it. Though there were really those swoon-worthy bits between Hadley and Oliver that made me...well swoon, I find the story focused more on how Hadley dealt the conflicting feelings she had about her parent, especially about her dad. Nonetheless, the things between Hadley and Oliver was really cute and sweet and though I don't really believe in love at first sight I love the thought of meeting someone and then having a great and undeniable connection between them. ^^

At first I thought Hadley was some spoiled, whinny, brat. The way she told her dislike about the idea of going to his dad's second marriage kind of annoyed me. I was like why don't she just get over it since her mom and dad are both happy and moving on. But as the story progressed and as I learn more about her I started to connect with her and understand her. Her feelings - bitterness, sadness, hurt and anger - was very well voiced out. It actually made me also mad at her Dad too. I find him really selfish. Asking Hadley to attend his marriage to a women she haven't even met before was just kind of anger-inducing. And even though at the last part he and her father already had a talk about it and finally forgave him, it wasn't enough for me to like and forgive him too. And no matter how nice Charlotte was I just can't seem to like her. I just want - even for a little part - to see their guilt for what they'd done, that they did something bad and had hurt other people. But I guess that's just the way it has to be - everyone just have to move on and be happy. 

Oliver was a very entertaining character. He's cool and sweet that you wouldn't know that deep inside he's dealing with a more heart aching situation. I loved his jokes and his answers to Hadley's question were really filled with great humor. You would think that he was really open and cool on things but really he could also be a mysterious guy. I was shocked when I learned about his father and how his relationship with him had never been really good. But in the end I was happy that both him and Hadley were able to deal with those crappy things, moved on and meet again! The last part was really charming and sweet. They were really a very cute couple and I just loved them. :))

Overall, this was a lovely read. Though I wasn't entirely happy with the thing about their parents, the narration between Hadley and Oliver's encounter was enough to make me really liked the book. A light and fun read! :))   

Waiting on Wednesday (#3)

"Waiting on Wednesday" is a weekly event hosted by Jill from Breaking the Spine, that spotlight upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating. This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" are..

Shine

by Jeri Smith-Ready

Expected publication: May 1st 2012

No other love has burned so bright

Life can change in an instant, and no one understands that better than Aura. It’s been almost a year since her boyfriend tragically died. She’s finally letting go of Logan’s violet-hued ghost, but not her search to uncover the truth about her past. As the first in a generation that can see ghosts, Aura is convinced that she has a connection to the Shift. She’s trusted Zachary, ever patient and ever by her side, with all that she knows. But when the government threatens his life in an attempt to learn Aura’s secrets, she will stop at nothing to protect herself and the one she loves...even if that means betraying her own heart.

The Immortal Rules

by Julie Kagawa

Expected publication: April 24th 2012

You will kill. The only question is when. 

In the dark days since the insidious Red Lung virus decimated the human population, vampires have risen to rule the crumbling cities and suburbs. Uncontested Princes hold sway over diminished ranks of humans: their "pets." In exchange for their labor, loyalty and of course, their blood, these pets are registered, given food and shelter, permitted to survive.

Unregistered humans cling to fringes, scavenging for survival. Allison Sekemoto and her fellow Unregistereds are hunted, not only by vampires, but by rabids, the unholy result of Red Lung-infected vampires feeding on unwary humans. One night, Allie is attacked by a pack of rabids, saved by an unlikely hero...and turned vampire.

Uncomfortable in her undead skin, Allie falls in with a ragtag crew of humans seeking a cure, or cures: for Rabidism and for Vampirism. She's passing for human...for now. But the hunger is growing and will not be denied. Not for friendship—not even for love.

Shine by Jeri Smith-Ready is one the books I'm really looking forward reading. It's the 3rd and final installment of the Shade trilogy. I'm pretty curious on what's gonna happen next since the ending of the previous book was really good that I could almost settle on it and accept it as the ending. LOL. And then The Immortal Rules by Julie Kagawa, a new series and it's a vampire book. Okay, I'm not really into vampire novels but since its Kagawa, I'll definitely have to read this one. No questions there. It's Kagawa's. That's given. I should read this. Yeah, I'm a bias. Haha! :DD