Review: Warm Bodies (Warm Bodies #1) by Isaac Marion

Title: Warm Bodies (Warm Bodies #1)
Author: Isaac Marion
Published: April 26th 2012
Publisher: Atria
My rating: 4 stars!

R is a young man with an existential crisis--he is a zombie. He shuffles through an America destroyed by war, social collapse, and the mindless hunger of his undead comrades, but he craves something more than blood and brains. He can speak just a few grunted syllables, but his inner life is deep, full of wonder and longing. He has no memories, no identity, and no pulse. Just dreams.

After experiencing a teenage boy's memories while consuming his brain, R makes an unexpected choice that begins a tense, awkward, and strangely sweet relationship with the victim's human girlfriend. Julie is a burst of vibrant color in the otherwise dreary and gray landscape that R lives in. His decision to protect her will transform not only R, but his fellow Dead, and perhaps their whole lifeless world.

Scary, funny, and surprisingly poignant, Warm Bodies is about being alive, being dead and the blurry line in between.

Now that I've read this I kinda wanna slap myself for reading this just recently even though I have seen this a lot of times in goodreads for as long time with all its number of glowing reviews. And it was all because I thought it was corny and it just felt a little 'meh' on me - I mean a zombie and a teenage girl? Eww, right? Only until I realized that the movie adaptation will be out this month (and saw a zombie Nicholas Hoult in action) did I decide to finally give this book a try.

And boy, oh boy, did I want to drop on my knees and beg some forgiveness for being too judgmental. Because this book has just flat-out and completely proven me wrong! I mean, yes there were still those gory/weird moments and some parts where I don't know if I should take it seriously or just laugh it out but what I loved was that Marion was also able to make it into a very sweet, adorable and surprisingly very poignant and moving story. I have to admit, I did shed some tears while I was reading this. 

Marion's writing was what I enjoyed so much about this book. He wrote R's perspective in such a way that you would instantly connect and understand him. Which is saying a lot since he wrote a guy's pov and not just some guy but a guy zombie's pov. He wrote it so effectively and his prose so beautifully and lovely that compelled me to really adore and appreciate R's character despite the weirdness and absurdity of the situation.

More than anything else, I loved the underlying yet very powerful and thought-provoking poignant messages about hope, love, change and humanity in this book. It was something I wasn't expecting when I started this but it was what I had greatly appreciated about this book in the end. I loved how Marion made us delve deeper into the story and see the more important and bigger values and issues in it.

Review: Defy The Stars by Stephanie Parent

Title: Defy the Stars
Author: Stephanie Parent
Publication Date: July 30th 2012
Publisher: Stephanie Parent
My rating: 3.5 stars

Julia Cape: A dedicated classical piano student just trying to get through her last semester of high school while waiting to hear from music conservatories.

Reed MacAllister: A slacker more likely to be found by the stoners’ tree than in class.

Julia and Reed might have graduated high school without ever speaking to each other…until, during a class discussion of Romeo and Juliet, Julia scoffs at the play’s theme of love at first sight, and Reed responds by arguing that feelings don’t always have to make sense. Julia tries to shake off Reed’s comment and forget about this boy who hangs with the stoner crowd—and who happens to have breathtaking blue eyes—but fate seems to bring the two together again and again. After they share an impulsive, passionate kiss, neither one can deny the chemistry between them. Yet as Julia gets closer to Reed, she also finds herself drawn into his dark world of drugs and violence. Then a horrific tragedy forces Julia’s and Reed’s families even farther apart…and Julia must decide whether she’s willing to give up everything for love.

I was never a fan of Romeo and Juliet but when it was said that this book is some sort of a retelling of the said famous romance novel I was curious as how the author will pull it off. Well, actually it was more like I wanted to see a different ending, something that isn't really tragic or well, stupid because I really resent the ending of the original novel. Thankfully, I think the author did a very good job in portraying the story of Reed and Julia as the modern Romeo and Juliet and although the ending wasn't exactly what I had hoped for it was I guess, the best that could have come for a retelling of a tragic love story. 

Julia and Reed comes from complete opposite world. The rich and the poor, the good and the bad, the responsible and the reckless. That isn't exactly a new setting to us but despite that it wasn't really hard to be swept and curious with the story of these two. Julia is a character that is easy to relate with and understand. Her emotions and feelings are very well voiced out making it even easier for us to understand her better. She did a lot of mistakes and wrong decisions but she's unmistakably a compassionate and strong person. 

Reed is a character I'm very torn with. Not that he isn't likable but he was a character that I can't seem to have a firm grasp at. I saw the good in him, the vulnerable side, the reasons behind the addiction, his genuine intentions and I understand him, I really did and I did grew to care for him. Yet, despite all that it seems that he keeps on slipping away as the story goes on. It was sad and disheartening but I feel like the author purposely wrote his character that way. 

The romance between the two was sweet and lovely. I love how the two met and how their feeling for each other developed, how they admitted it and how they fell into each other and didn't seem to care what people say about them. However, some part of me felt like it was lacking a bit of intensity, to completely convince the readers that they were indeed utterly, madly in love without words saying it. It might have made the ending even more compelling and powerful. 

Nonetheless, Defy the Stars is lovely and heartwarming read although it ended still pretty tragic (not as much as the original Romeo and Juliet though) but the ending, for some reason I find encouraging. I was actually satisfied with it and it showed what should have been the right choice for the ending of a tragic love story. 

Thank you YA Bound and Stephanie Parent for the review copy of this book.

Review: Point of Retreat (Slammed #2) by Colleen Hoover

Title: Point of Retreat (Slammed #2) 

Author: Colleen Hoover

Published: February 25th 2012

Publisher: Colleen Hoover

Read synopsis: Goodreads

Rating: 4 stars

I was so surprised by how much I enjoyed this more than Slammed. I didn't read this right away after I finished Slammed because when I read the blurb I thought it would be more dramatic and frustrating. But boy, was I wrong! Because it was actually a hell lot of fun! Although, yes, there were those stressing and dramatic parts, but I also did get a lot of laughs in this one. Which I wasn't really expecting at all. I was really glad I didn't put off this book for a long while. I butterflying enjoyed it!

Reading this in Will's POV made us see his and Lake's relationship in a different angle. Which was also a big treat since I love guy's pov and it's freaking Will! I was happy and greatly entertained to get on his mind and see a lot of different sides of him. His journal entries were one of my favorite parts of this book, it was sweet and funny. Also, I really enjoyed seeing him slipped away a little from his control and restrains especially when it comes to Lake. 

And just as any other relationships, theirs came with obstacles and hindrances they must overcome. Although I did get so stressed out and frustrated by it I understand that what had happened had contributed a lot for the development of their relationship. I'm not entirely happy with Lake's reaction but once she finally explained it I realized that what they were going through was necessary for them to grew and understand their relationship even deeper and to proved that their love wasn't just brought because of their same tragic situation. 

And just like in Slammed, Will never failed to mesmerized me by his poetry. I wasn't just touched, I f*cking butterflying fell in love. I can't even tell you how much I loved that slam poetry he did to prove his love to Lake without gushing! I loved loved loved it to the highest level! Other things I enjoyed so much in this book was Kiersten! She could be my new freaking best friend. I adore this girl and I laughed so hard with her humor and wittiness. And that poetry she pulled off on the last part, I can line that up on my most favorite poems I read from this story! Yeah, Butterfly You! LOL! Kel and Caulder still managed to entertain me and touched me. They were just the cutest baby brothers ever! Can I have them?

This book definitely captivated me! I laughed, swoon, loved and teared up a bit! Colleen Hoover did another great job and I'm so happy to be able to read this wonderful story! I had so much fun reading this and I recommend this. :)

Review: Sempre (Forever) by J.M. Darhower

Title: Sempre (Forever)

Author: J.M. Darhower

Published: January 30th 2012

Publisher: J.M. Darhower

Read synopsis: Goodreads

Rating: 5 stars!

This was a very compelling and captivating book and I was very much stunned by it. After reading this I know I'll have a hell of a time writing a review for this one. This book went very much deeper that I had expected. And I was definitely astounded by how much it stirred up intense emotions from me and brought so many thought provoking issues on my mind. This was the kind of book that will haunt you for days and will forever be ingrained in your mind. Reading this was such a very wonderful experience for me, I was touched, enthralled, thrilled and amazed beyond words. 

Sempre was an exceptionally written book that tells the story of people who lived beyond the worlds of human-trafficking and the Mafia. It was a story of sacrifice, acceptance, choices and love. Haven and Carmine were two people who grew up in complete opposite worlds but thrown together to find freedom, love and meaning in their life through each other. 

Haven was a very remarkable character. She was innocent and vulnerable but even with all those awful things she experienced in her life she remained to be a very kind, understanding and warm person. And this girl just touched me and moved me to the highest level in so so many ways. I can't even imagine all those things she had to endure but I was greatly impressed by this girl. She was strong and intelligent in her own way, she maybe innocent when it comes to the basic things about life but she had deeper and greater perspective than anyone else when it comes to life and death. She had ugly scars physically and emotionally but despite all that she was a very glowing character, her raw beauty was pouring imposingly that you wouldn't be able to help but love and appreciate her character.

Carmine was, well, simply said he was a jerk. Until he met Haven. Seeing someone important to you die right under your nose in such a very young age would definitely make you a mess and that's what had happened to Carmine. I may not be a fan of his jerky side but I can totally understand it. Despite living privileged life, he was just a broken kid, haunted and consumed by the guilt and remorse from the death of her mother. But when he met Haven he started taking and seeing things a lot differently. They found a connection from each other that helped them share their feelings, regrets and griefs. I was awed by how his character grew and changed upon meeting Haven. He wasn't your perfect guy, he made mistakes and was definitely flawed in many ways but you can see the honesty and the realness of his character especially when it comes to his feelings for Haven.

I love how this two find each other and was able to give that very thing they had long needed to be in their lives. Their relationship wasn't easy and was forced with obstacle from being in a family of a Mafia. They were forced to make decisions and sacrifices to save one another. Sacrifices that may take away their choices in life or will put them into something they have been eagerly avoiding. But what this book was saying was that real love makes every sacrifices worth it.

I was impressed by how J.M. Darhower made this book so purposeful, not just to provide entertainment from readers but also to enlighten them about the subject of slavery/human-trafficking in our society. Reading this had my eyes opened on such subject where I didn't realize was still happening in our world. This book provide awareness for everyone about things that were usually unknown to us and things that should have taken some actions.

I had so many conflicted emotions while reading this and at some point I find myself even loving those people who were on the 'bad' side. Which just proved how compelling and striking this book was but I was glad that the author remained very realistic when it comes to the outcome of the actions taken in the story. I was also impressed that Darhower was never afraid to kill her characters! Although most of them were just minor but boy, almost all her characters were pretty striking so when they die it was just as striking too.

I have so many thing I still wanted to say about this book but if I don't stop now this might become a novella. So to conclude, this was very superb and powerful novel. I cannot fathom how much this book has stunned me and saying this was an amazing read was just an understatement. But I tell you, this book is a must read and I really wanted you guys to have the same wonderful experience I had from reading this. I highly recommend this! :D

Review: What I Didn't Say by Kaery Taylor

Title: What I Didn't Say

Author: Kaery Taylor

Publication Date: May 11th 2012

Publsiher: Kaery Taylor

Read synopsis: Goodreads

Rating: 3.5 stars

After reading the blurb I thought it was a heavy read. Because, you see, it involves some devastating and depressing incidents. But surprisingly it was not, in fact it was actually a pretty light read but with great in depth lessons. I was touched and moved by this story and although I think I get a bit teary-eyed on some parts it wasn't really a depressing story. 

Jake's story was heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. And I couldn't help but be impressed by this boy and by the way he faced and accepted his situation. Jake didn't let himself be overcome by self-pity even when I know it was hurting him really bad. I was waiting for him to breakdown and cry and get angry over his loss but he never did and I was really touched by it I think I teared up a little.

Sam was a really strong character. I didn't like her right away and how she reacted on some stuffs on the earlier parts but when I learned her story I finally like and understand her. Through her Jake was able to realized that he has a lot to be happy about despite not being able to speak. I really love how Jake and Sam were able to find and save each other. 

The love story was sweet and very touching. I did find some bits of it a little corny and some dramas had me saying 'ohkaaaay' but sill the message and lessons the author wanted the reader to see was very well conveyed. It was beautiful and poignant. There are so many things in this world we should be grateful about and shouldn't be taken for granted, that there are a lot worse out there that we couldn't even imagine but we have to see the good things we have even the simplest things. 

Overall, this was a very heartwarming and touching book that teaches great and wonderful lessons. I really enjoyed it and I love to recommend this to you guys! :)) 

Thank you Kaery Taylor and Netgalley for providing a review copy!

Review: Everneath (Everneath #1) by Brodi Ashton

Title: Everneath (Everneath #1)

Author: Brodi Ashton

Publication Date: January 24th 2012

Publisher: Harper Collins/ Balzar + Bray

Read synopsis: Goodreads

Rating: 3.75-4 stars

“Stay with me, Becks. Dream of me. I am ever yours.” 

It's very rare of me to cry over a paranormal book, it's not that they don't reach me deep down, it's just that I'm always busy figuring out twists and puzzles and how they would survive over those paranormal obstacles. And yes, of course, I do swoon over the romantic and sweet moments. I go gaga over those heroes' heroic deeds and sacrifices just to save their significant someone and prove how much they mean to them and love them and whenever they say the sweetest things, I just melt. But no one has ever struck me as much as Jack's love for Nikki! It was hauntingly beautiful, heart warming and real. It din't just had me swooning but it also reached me and tugged my heart in the most amazing and heartrending way. 

This was a mixture of the story of Persephone and Hades, Orpheus and Euridyce and a twist of some Egyptian mythology. And sure enough that made this book really unique and interesting. When I started this I was instantly swallowed by Nikki's voice and emotion. It was heavy and intense, I felt her grieves, and regrets and it just made my heart ache for her. Still there were times that I love her and times that I hate her. But as she started taking actions and as she developed throughout the story she became a very admirable and amazing character.

Even though I was extremely touched by this book and although I really did enjoy it I still had some frustrations over it. I could understand Nikki's flaws and misguided choices but it doesn't mean I have to like it. There was this point that I wanted to tell she's so stupid! And although she did admit that it was her own doing that ruined her life and that she regretted it I was still a bit annoyed with her since she didn't exactly do anything right away when she came back. It was frustrating especially there with Cole, I wanted to shake her so bad and beg her to please get really angry at Cole! Around the middle part of the book I was really hopeless about her and Jack. So I was really glad when things finally started picking up around the later parts. That was the most exciting and interesting parts. Where twist and secrets were revealed and when Nikki finally started standing up and fighting for herself and Jack. 

Jack. He's the most sweetest and most committed guy I'd ever met! I don't know if I there's anything negative I can say about him. He's a very patient, faithful and loving character. It literally broke my heart when I learned all the hardships he'd been through. There's no word for me to describe how strong his feelings for Nikki. All those things he's done to save Nikki is just downright amazing and heart warming. And whenever Jack is present you could clearly see the love in him. (view spoiler)

As for Cole, he's annoying and I just wanted him to go far far away but in all honesty I could say he's pretty endearing and intriguing. There were some parts that showed that he could be really kind and good but with all those things he did to Nikki, how he manipulated her I just can't seem really like him. 

This was a very unique and wonderful paranormal book with a very heartwarming and moving love story. The characters were great and endearing and I was deeply touched by them and their story. I would definitely love to recommend this to everyone.

Review: The Probability of Miracles by Wendy Wunder

Title: The Probability of Miracles

Author: Wendy Wunder

Publication Date: December 8th 2011

Publisher: Razorbill

Read synopsis: Goodreads

Rating: 3.5 stars

Won't there be any cancer book out there that will not make me cry in the end? Or at least make the main character survive and live? Why do they always have to die?! 

If it wasn't for the last third of this book, which was really beautiful and heartwarming, I might have really given this a 2 or 2.5 stars. Cam's too cynic attitude really didn't help me to like her and her story right away. Instead of being sympathetic of her I was a bit annoyed and frustrated. I understand her situation and what she'd been enduring for so many years and yes, it was awful and I was sorry and sad with all of that but this girl was just so so negative. Usually, I would have loved a heroine who's sarcastic, smart-mouthed and tough. I would have admired her attitude and how she handles and put up on things but in Cam's case I was like hopeless. She doesn't believed in miracles, well, I'm okay with that but what was really depressing was that she doesn't let any positive thing to come in her short remaining life. I was so tempted a lot of times to drop this book unfinished. I was so hopeless of her, and I was like this girl should have met Augustus Waters! I even told myself that I won't cry if she died in the end. But I ate back all those words. Because I did. A lot.

So I'll be straight here, I didn't like the first and second thirds of the book. I was frustrated, annoyed and hopeless. But the last thirds? I LOVED it. It was beautiful, poignant and very moving. It made me forget all my frustrations on the earlier parts and I finally found myself loving Cam and the wonderful person inside her. It was touching to see her letting things through, even if she doesn't believe in miracles she started believing that great things could still happen without needing an explanation. I love how she finally opened up and find happiness and true love before it's too late. All those things that happened in this part were really moving and I appreciated every second of it. The romance is definitely a thumbs-up, it was sweet, swooning, and definitely heartwarming. And all the characters were really wonderful, they all have been a very good part of the story making it more inspiring and enriching. 

The ending was so beautiful it hurts. I was so moved and touched that fat tears started coming out of my eyes. It was heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. And yes, I loved it. Even if it left me like a mess. I was satisfied and I was glad I didn't give up on this book and continued reading it. I just wished that Cam's change of heart started a bit earlier since I really struggled during the first two-thirds of the book. But all in all, this is a very heartwarming and inspiring story and I did enjoy it. I would still love to recommend this.

Review: Pure (Covenant #2) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Title: Pure

Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout

Release date: April 3rd 2012

Publisher: Spencer Hills Press

Read synopsis: Goodreads

Rating: 4.5 stars

Warning: This contains more of my rants about the romantic aspect on this book. And its a little one sided. It may spoil you so I guess don't read this if you haven't read the book. :))

I would say this book blew me away once again - in a good way, in bad way and in all sorts of way! It brought so many emotions in me, all at the same time. It made me happy, swoon, thrilled, confused, sad and frustrated. Don't get me wrong, this book is absolutely great and brilliant. And Jennifer did a very wonderful job and just proved once again how great an author she is. But I tell you, there were just so many things that happened that definitely squeezed and wrenched my heart. 

Alex is still just as kick-ass as she was in the first book. The same spontaneous, impulsive but lovely, brave and adorable heroine. And I still positively love her for that. Though there were lots of things that happened both wonderful and devastating which made her confused, hurt and all it also contributed a lot in developing her character. Realizations and understanding came to her as she experienced all of it. Though I may not have been happy with some of her decisions and choices (for some personal reasons!XD) I still really admire her and she's becoming more of an awesome character.

So now, the boys. Oh yeah, I guess I wouldn't be talking about them because it would only eventually lead to the romance aspect in this sequel. So I guess let's get it straight. Alright, to be honest I was freaking devastated! Jennifer gave me all the right reasons to love Seth, and well, it did made me love him. Boy, who wouldn't? He's cool, arrogant, sarcastic, but also sweet and caring and not to mention his breathtaking, swoon-worthy, jaw-dropping, mouth-watering looks. Oh man, he's totally my kind of jerk! And I definitely went a little gaga over him but - yeah there's a big BUT - I just can't love him enough to like him for Alex. I like Seth a lot, really but if you're gonna ask me who I want Alex to end up with, I am absolutely in Team Aiden. And to explain why I was devastated, I was deprived of Aiden here! There were so little moments between him and Alex and it wasn't even at all that swoony. And even though I enjoyed and appreciate most of the Seth highlights in here, that pool scene just killed me! It was hot and steamy and all but I can't fully appreciate it because it was breaking my heart. It was frustrating to keep on waiting for Aiden moments when all that was coming were Seth moments and it was all sweet, funny, and swoon-worthy! 

I do not hate Seth for making a move with Alex and liking her, for Alex to made that decision, nor Aiden for keeping on pushing Alex away. I understand everything, their feelings, the situation and the danger. But it was just really hard not to feel bad. So yeah, Jennifer, you're definitely awesome. Its very rare for me to be so affected by a book this big. After reading it, it was all I keep on thinking - possibilities, theories, what ifs, Aiden, Aiden, Aiden! - up until now and the days to come. It will consume me for days, that I am sure, just like what Obsidian did to me. LOL! 

Sometimes I wish Aiden and Alex could just run away! Haha! I imagine that someone will discover what Alex did on the last part and how Aiden tried to help her to cover that up and they would run away! Yeah, sounds pretty desperate of me. But boy, I am desperate! *sigh* Anyway, please don't mistakenly take my devastation over the romance aspect as a bad thing. It was mostly my personal opinion and feelings. I would still definitely highly recommend this! There were great and thrilling parts that I absolutely enjoyed and there were moments, other than the romance, that squeezed my heart. It was a very good read. Jennifer knows how to write a killer story. Haha! I am definitely looking forward for Deity! Please come fast November! 9 months is too long. :((

P.S.

I think I know that necklace Aiden was wearing and what "agapi" means too! *giggles* ♥ And Seth really reminds me of Dameon, they'll definitely explode if they ever meet. lol!

Review: Shadows (Lux # 0.5) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Title: Shadows (Lux # 0.5)

Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout

Published: February 21st 2012

Publisher: Entangled Publishing

Read synopsis: Goodreads

Rating: 5 of 5 stars

*Warning: Contains spoilers. Read at your own risk.

(This went more like my review for both Shadows and my second round of Obsidian. Teehee!)

This was a wonderful and heart wrenching story. I loved that I was able to get to know Dawson and Bethany and their tragic love story. And though it ended pretty sad there were parts I had definitely enjoyed, especially those times Dawson and Bethany had been together. It was lovely, sweet and definitely heartwarming. Dawson's relationship with his siblings was utterly beautiful too. I saw how much the three of them cared for each other. And of course, this book has definitely helped me understand Daemon's character and answer the questions I had about him in Obsidian. I now understood why he was such a jerk to Katy and why he was so reluctant to her when it was pretty obvious that he like her too. 

And speaking of Obsidian, I was serious when I said I was so in the mood to re-read it, so yeah, I did. And yes, I still enjoyed it and still left me as high as I was the first time I read it. It was also funny to see how Daemon ate almost everything he said about his brother doing 'stupid' things. Seeing him do almost the same things his brother did and much more (and I would say it was really way more entertaining actually) was just really amusing. Anyway, I find most of the things that happened way clearer now. Theories were popping up on my mind and I noticed a lot of things now that I've read Shadows too. Well, things like in Shadows, when Dawson switched to his Luxen form he cannot speak to Bethany because she wouldn't be able to understand him. But in Obsidian, when Daemon switched to his true form he was able to speak to Katy and Katy did hear him in her mind. Making me think that there is definitely something special about Katy. To support that, there was also this thing when Katy passed out the first time Daemon used his power near her to scare off the bear. Daemon said that he didn't know why she passed out and that she was a human so it shouldn't have affected her like that. And of course the last part, the things that happened in the field; the power from Dee and Dawson she seemed to absorb and the power surge she used to kill the Arum. And then the healing thing Daemon did to Katy and made them sort of connected, like they became the other half of each other. Which I'm pretty sure was the same thing Dawson did to Bethany. But something happened to Bethany when Dawson fought, it was like what happened to the other affects the other one too. I wonder if the same thing will happen to Daemon and Katy too. Oh well, those were just my freaking theories and you don't have to believe me. Haha! I'm just having a major Obsidian obsession streak right now. But it was amusing to entertain thoughts like that. 

And yes, after reading Shadows then Obsidian again and those teasers of Onyx and parts of Deamon's pov from Obsidian posted in Jennifer's blog, I am very much convinced that Daemon is madly, deeply, irrevocably, and irresistibly (cr. for the adverbs here) in love with Katy! You don't have to agree with me but I really like to believed that. God, I'm so obsessed. LoL! I so need Onyx now! But I have no choice but to wait. T.T 

Review: The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

Title: The Fault in Our Stars
Author: John Green
Published: January 10th 2011
Publisher: Dutton Juvenile
Read synopsis: Goodreads

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

This book brought so many smiles in my face and warmed my heart in so many ways. A very poignant and compelling read that would reach deep down inside you. This is a story told with great humor, intelligence and honesty. I cannot fathom how much this book has struck me but I am certain this book has changed something within me after reading it. 

I've seen this book in a lot of blogs as one of their most anticipated books for this year. So I read the blurb and...I got scared. I mean, I saw right there that it's something that would be really emotional and I just so know the feelings it would left me after reading it. And they pretty much bother me, not because it was bad but whenever I read stories like this I tend to get so attached to the characters that even when it was just something fictional I feel the lost, like I was the one in there and I can't seem to let them go too. So yeah, most of the time I really avoid emotional books. They really crash my heart and makes my eyes a freaking waterfalls. 

But thank you, to those wonderful reviews I've read that convinced me to give this a try because I wouldn't be able find out how this book is so different from most heavily dramatic emotional books I've seen. This book is just so downright beautiful and utterly honest. This book made me see a lot of things in a whole different way, made me realize how lucky I am and taught me so many great life lessons. 

I'm sure I wouldn't be able to give this book justice in this review. But just let me tell you what I really loved about this book. Hazel, Augustus and their life lessons. I've read the first two chapters and I already fell in love with them. Despite the seriousness of the situation this two were absolutely adorable and funny. They were witty, intelligent and strong. And they are honest, they are both cancer victims, so they already know what choices they have, what either way they would go and what might gonna happen next. So there wasn't really those fake, hopeful speeches or dialogues that might have also deceived. They just say what's real and what's not, what's to expect and what's not to hope for. It was harsh and terrible but it was also the truth and the reality. 

I can't helped but be awed at those things they say and how they think. Especially Augustus, how good his heart was and how uniquely he saw things. I may say that the way they talk things was a little unbelievable, with all the use of metaphors, and the talk about universe, existence, oblivion, heroism and nobility - you wouldn't think a teenager could talk like this even in the brink of death but never mind that because what you need is just to see what he was pointing out, see the meaning of what he was saying and think of it, absorbed it and realize things through it. I applaud John Green for creating such outstanding characters, though quite unbelievable but still absolutely entertaining, adorable and really awe-inspiring. 

I spent most of the time laughing, thinking, swooning and chocking back tears. The story was filled with great humor, harsh truths but beautiful life lessons. There were moments like I was already crying then I would suddenly smile or grin because of the witty remarks of the characters. The development between Hazel and Augustus's relationship was something I really loved too, how they grew to really loved each other was so lovely and heart lifting. 

The last few chapters was very moving and beautiful. The ending was perfect. I can't explain how much I was touched by that. It made me cry not because it was sad but because it was so unbelievably heartwarming. And whenever I remember the ending I can't help but think of Augustus, of how great this guys is, how sweet and caring, how honest and intelligent. I'd never met such character as him. He's definitely one of the greatest character I'd ever read. Hazel's the main character here and I really loved her narration but Augustus was really a great highlight in here. 

I really have a lot of things I wanna say but they are all jumbled in my head now and I don't know how I will but them up together orderly. But god, the only thing that keeps coming on my head really clear that this book is downright-flat-out-absolutely beautiful and heart warming read! I loved this book and I would love you all to read this! :))

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. :))

Review: Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma

Title: Forbidden
Author: Tabitha Suzuma
Published: May 27th 2010
Publisher: Definition
Read synopsis: Goodreads

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

This book is a mindfuck! Sorry for the word but seriously, my emotions while reading this did betray my beliefs on some certain  controversial/sensitive issues. The way the story was told, the idea and concept totally shook my judgement, beliefs and assumptions. I found myself agreeing in some parts and wanting certain things to happen even when I know it totally contradicts the things I believe was right or wrong. For a book being able to provoke such kind of thinking from me and was able to waver my certainty on things at some points, I can say this is indeed an extraordinary and remarkable story. Though I would be honest, I do still find it disturbing and unsettling.

The idea of incest sure made me uncomfortable yet I saw a lot of good reviews about it. I have second thoughts on deciding whether to read it or not. But thanks to some of my GR friends who convinced me and assured me that this is definitely a wonderful read (and reminded me to keep tissues near by) I was finally able read it despite with my serious avoidance for too emotional books. This book made me laugh, worry, cry, hope, and see things in a more open-minded way.

Lochan and Maya's situation was hard. They have become the mother-father figure in their family since their father abandoned them and her mother was always too drunk, too wasted, too irresponsible to take care of them. Being the two of the oldest in the siblings Lochan and Maya took responsibility in taking care of the 3 more younger members of their family. They have become practically the parents in their family, doing exactly every little things their parents should be doing for them. They formed a unique bond, a distinctive understanding, a matchless care for each other and a forbidden relationship. Lochan and Maya, brother and sister. They fell in love.

I didn't actually freaked out or become grossed out with their relationship. And I admit at some point I kind of wanted their relationship to last, not to be found out and just be happy. But I know it was wrong and I definitely don't approve. However I do not blame them for having that kind of relationship. I got easily connected with them and I ache for them, for the hardships and sacrifices they have to endure at a young age. I saw their longing, their love, their devotion and it was just so much and so real and beautiful but still, still it was wrong, so wrong in so many ways. Yeah, I want Lochan and Maya to be happy, they deserve to be happy but I will not say that their relationship should be right nor that the everyone should approve of it.

(Note: This is purely my opinion.)

I don't think that's what the story is about. I think it's more of seeing everything first, knowing the situation and understanding circumstances first before we become so judgmental. It wasn't Lochan and Maya's fault that their relationship lead to something more. And I don't think they should be punished for that. They deserve to be understand first, not their romantic relationship I mean, but what they were outside of it. With their family, friends, classmates and teachers. The blame shouldn't be all put into them because, clearly, a large part of all the messed up things were caused by the irresponsibility of their parents. I put the blame more to their parents. To their dad for abandoning them, to their mom for her absence, for her lack of care, for her immaturity that she wasn't able to guide her children and see if there was something wrong happening.

After reading the story I realize that maybe if I heard something like the situation of Lochan and Maya I wouldn't be so judgmental to think that the people involve were seriously disgusting and should not be very much humiliated.

The ending made me tremendously sad. Seriously, after reading that I don't know what to feel anymore. But still, it was an amazing read. Suzuma made me do a lot of thinking.

P.S. I wouldn't mind recommending this to everyone but just so you know this contains mature stuffs so even though this is marketed to young-adult readers I think this is more appropriate to mature teens. There are stuffs that might put-off some readers but if you could take those and be a little open, please give it a try. Its a wonderful read. ^^

Review: Clockwork Prince (The Infernal Devices #2) by Cassandra Clare

Title: Clockwork Prince (The Infernal Devices #2)
Author: Cassandra Clare
Published: December 6th 2011
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books
Read synopsis: Goodreads

Rating: 5 of 5 stars

WARNING: SPOILERS!

Everything just freaking hurts.

I was compelled, awed, confused and utterly heart-broken. This book was a whirlwind of emotion. It was just too emotional that I am seriously having a hard time thinking what to say in here. The last part left me completely torn that I didn't know what emotion I should feel first. I just wanna lie on my bed, stare at the ceiling and think of a thousand ways of how the story should've turned out. And I can't believe I have to wait another year to wait for the third book. I'm seriously going mad.

Though this book had left me emotionally wrecked I can still say that this was really beautifully made. The plot was awesome, the twists are thrilling and exciting, the revelations were shocking and heart wrenching and the characters are all wonderful, and not to mention those totally swooning scenes. Cassie's really a great writer. I am very much awed with this world she made and how immense its impact can bring on me. Not so may authors can make me feel like this, to make me bring out so many emotions and to feel so devastated when everything is not going well, as if it was my life in there. I was devoured. Completely devoured.

In this book, I was finally able to see and understand the real William Herondale. The loving and caring Will. The one who sacrifices a lot and would do everything just for his loved ones. Most parts of the story, I wanted to cry for him. I wanted to jump into the book and hug him and comfort him. All those rudeness and impoliteness during the first book was for good. Realizing everything he had done, every sacrifices he made, every pain he had endured just to save everyone was just so heart aching. Will was such a wonderful and good person. I got a lot more reasons now to love him. The last part left me so torn and I can't imagine how painful it was for him.

There were a lot of Jem in this book, actually more than Will. I saw a much stronger and less suppressing Jem here. I was surprised when he proposed to Tessa and she accepted it. But I can't help but feel sad and pained at that time instead of being happy for him. I was just wondering why he seems to be so oblivious to Will's feelings for Tessa. In the Clockwork Angel, he clearly noticed Will's feelings but in CP it feels like he has no idea that Will and Tessa have feelings for each other. Or maybe he thinks that he needed to have something or someone he really wanted or be selfish just for once despite what others were feeling since he's living a short life and he never wanted anything in his life before. I don't know. I want Jem to be really happy and be cured. But I want Tessa to end up with Will. 

I feel so sorry for Tessa. I understand her decisions and I am just as freaking confused and torn as she is. She loves Jem but she is in love with Will. I think she accepted the engagement because she couldn't bear to hurt him and she wanted to make him happy but not because she is IN LOVE with him. However, she can't undo her decisions because it would not just break Jem's heart and even if she really does that she can still never be with Will. It would break Jem and Will's friendship. And it would be like a betrayal. Oh My Freaking Gahd. I just want everyone to be happy. I just want Will to have his Tess, Jem to get cured and live, Tessa to know what she really is and be with Will. But it doesn't seem so to be that easy. And sacrifices have to be made. Ughh.

Though most of the time I felt so emotional there are still parts that made me laugh, grin and happy. Charlotte and Henry's story was really cute and I really like it. It was so sweet and heartwarming. Sophie and Gideon's too. And I am sooo liking Gideon. Magnus too! Oh my! And that KISS! And those things he told to Camille. It was just so ridiculously funny! :)) And oh! The cliffhanger made me feel excited for the next book! But that would be an agonizing wait. :/

This book is a beautiful, awesome and heartbreaking read. Yeah, you're most likely to have gone mad after reading the story but still it was just so compelling and gripping you know its very much worth the hurt and wait. In the first place you wouldn't have a reaction like that if the story isn't wonderfully made and written. :))      

Review: Reason to Breathe by Rebecca Donovan

Reason to Breathe by Rebecca Donovan

Rating: 3.75 of 5 stars

I hate and love this book. There were parts that totally got me swooning and there were those that made me wanna throw up the book and curse. So here, I'll just enumerate the things I love and hate about this book.

Love:

1.The plot. It was interesting. With all the struggles, abuse and loss I was curious on how Emma would survive everything.

2. Sara. Emma's best friend. I so love her! Even though she's the most popular girl in school I saw how much she cares and loves Emma. They were the opposites but she's been really kind to her and it was genuine. I love that she cried when she saw Emma's bruises, I love her when she dresses Emma and run a make-over, I love her that she gave Emma a phone just so she could check her out if she's okay. She's a lovely character.

3. Evan. Totally. LOL. Of course I love him! Who would not? He's the kind of guy you would really want to date. The perfect one. Really. Haha. Everything he did was so real and genuine. Absolutely swooning. And definitely...fictional. :/ But still, he's a really wonderful character.

4. Vivien. Evan's mom. I love her because she loves and cares for Emma. LOL. :DD

5. The last part before the ending. It was one of the happiest parts. And Evan's birthdaaayyy~! >:DD 

Hate:

1. The story is effin' long. And I think some parts were a little irrelevant.

2. I just don't get why Emma doesn't want to report her aunt and that she needs to protect her cousins and that it would be worse if she did that. Well, at first I understand her. She knows what it feels to not to have a parent and she really love her cousins. But as the abuse grew I totally hate that she keeps on thinking like that. I know she's scared but...ughhh. That was way too much. It was really frustrating.

3. The Drew phase. I was so annoyed at this part, when Emma dated Drew. She dated Drew but before that she cannot date Evan? This phase was a bit long that I start to consider dropping the book. I sort of don't understand the essence.

Hate and Love:

1. Emma. I adore her but sometimes she's just seriously frustrating and annoying. I love her for she cares so much for her love ones. But I hate her for being so selfless. She was a wonderful character but sometimes I don't get her decisions.

2. The ending. It was heartwarming and heart breaking at the same time. I don't know really if I liked how it ended. What I love about the ending was that those few paragraphs of the epilogue was able to contain a great amount of emotion, and well, it was like a sucker punch. I get a bit teary at that part. Those paragraphs was able to cover up what Emma had been feeling throughout the story. However it was still heart breaking and disappointing. If I haven't checked if there's a sequel I would really think Emma died in the ending. I figured out the author wanted the story to be open-ended, to make the reader make their own conclusion. But I think that kind of ending does not fit for a realistic kind of novel. I've read books and watched movies which endings are open-ended, without definite conclusion, but most of it are mystery, paranormal or super naturals. Well, that's what I think. But its a relief to know that there would be a sequel. :))

So all in all, 3.75 of 5 stars for this book. Looking forward for the next book. :))  

Review: Sing Me To Sleep by Angela Morrison

Sing Me To Sleep by Angela Morrison
Rating: 4.75 of 5 stars


Beth has always been "The Beast" - that's what everyone at school calls her because of her awkward height, facial scars, and thick glasses. Beth's only friend is geeky, golden-haired Scott. That is, until she's selected to be her choir's soprano soloist, and receives the makeover that will change her life forever. When Beth's choir travels to Switzerland, she meets Derek: pale, brooding, totally dreamy and fell in love instantly. However there is something Derek is hiding from her, something that could shatter everything.

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Okay, I'm getting teary again just by remembering the things I so love about this book. When I started this I never really thought I would be getting seriously emotional, just until the last part, the impact was really hard you wouldn't be able to help it. Even after I read it, Oh my god, I just can't stop crying.

Beth has a really strong personality. She knows what the people in school calls her, she gets hurt and offended but she doesn't let it affect her massively. Instead she thrives with what she's good at, singing. I love how her character developed through out the story, how she gained confidence, how she has come to accept that she can be loved and she can also love someone. And how to let go and move on.

Derek is the kind of character you would instantly fell in love with. He's thoughtful, real and genuine. Everything about him is just so likable. When he and Beth met I was soo into them already. I love them, I love how they love each other, how they are so sweet together, how they care for each other, even how they make out which they do so steamingly hot. LOL. It wasn't even awkward when the issue of sex is brought up.

The last part was heartwarming, moving, touching, and totally heart breaking. Especially the part where Derek asked her to sing him the "Beth's Song" - to sing him to sleep, and at that instant my heart went crashing down. And then I was crying, really crying. I was suddenly so sad because if you get back to the earlier parts you wouldn't see it happening. You would see a total different Derek, a perfect Derek. And the perfect Derek was the once crafted on my mind. And well, I guess will always be the one crafted on my mind.

Everything from that part was just so emotional that it felt so real even though I was just reading it. It felt like I know them all, that I actually bonded with those characters. The emotional impact was just so strong. It hurts. There are only few books that had affected me like this. I only have 2 books on my 'i-cried-over' shelf. And now this one's added. I rarely let myself cry over a book but, Gahd, this one is just...you just wouldn't be able to help it. After reading, I just lay there on my bed looking at the ceiling, working on the 'what ifs' that made me cry even more. No books had ever made me cry this much.

This book is just wonderful. The kind where you'd find yourself fully involved, like you see, feel, taste everything. That in the end you'd find yourself learning lessons and having realization. :))