[Review] Spark by Brigid Kemmerer

Title: Spark (Elementals #2)
Author: Brigid Kemmerer
Published: October 1st 2012 by Allen & Unwin
Genre: Young Adult, Romance, Fantasy, Supernatural.
Rating: ★★★★★
Goodreads summary:

Gabriel Merrick plays with fire. Literally.

Sometimes he can even control it. And sometimes he can’t. Like the fire that killed his parents.

Gabriel has always had his brothers to rely on, especially his twin, Nick. But when an arsonist starts wreaking havoc on their town, all the signs point to Gabriel. Only he’s not doing it.

More than Gabriel’s pride is at stake -- this could cost him his family, maybe his life. And no one seems to hear him. Except a shy sophomore named Layne, a brainiac who dresses in turtlenecks and jeans and keeps him totally off balance. Layne understands family problems, and she understands secrets. She has a few of her own.

Gabriel can’t let her guess about his brothers, about his abilities, about the danger that’s right at his heels. But there are some risks he can’t help taking.

The fuse is lit…

*thanks to the publisher for supplying me a review copy of this ebook (via Netgalley)*

Emma's thoughts:

Leading up to Spark was Storm, the story of Gabriel's little brother, Chris. There, they encountered dangers that threatened to kill their family for their secrets. Like Chris, Gabriel has a power over an element. Fire's his specialty, and it seems matching considering his temper and attitude. Often in fights and brawls, it's no surprise that Gabriel's the troublemaker of the family.

I adore Gabriel though. Even if he acts without thinking sometimes, he truly means well. He's not the best person at showing his feelings, but reading from his perspective is a delight ♥ That goes to the same to Lane without a doubt. She is honestly the sweetest girl. That being said, she's got a backbone, that's for sure. She doesn't deal with Gabriel's shit. She sees right through him. Together, they've got this explicable chemistry that is to die for. They've got each other's backs and watching them grow and develop their relationship is incredible.

Gabriel's power with fire is so fascinating. It's supposed to be his advantage to everyone else. His strength, but it's also his weakness. The fire tempts him, lures him in to play, it destroy every standing thing he can find. It's really no wonder he is the way he is. He's not just another cocky jock. Just imagine not being able to do the very thing you're best at.

However he does find a way with the Merrick's oh beloved friend, Hunter. I actually really liked Hunter in Spark. He's not just the other guy part of the love triangle anymore, but the help he can offer is enormous. It's absolutely fitting that Gabriel and Hunter became friends. It's made me more curious about him and I really hope to see him in his own story one day! That being said, I don't think Hunter and Gabriel would've happened if Nick and Gabriel hadn't been drifting. There's really nothing more heart-breaking than two extremely close people slowly begin to fall apart...

The story is well-paced. There's just enough of everything; action, romance, humour, and of course familial problems. I adore Michael. He may not be the perfect guardian for three teenage boys, but he's doing a damn fine job. 

The perfect sequel to a brilliant start to the Elemental series. I honestly cannot wait to read about the rest of the Merrick brothers (and hopefully Hunter too!). Brigid Kemmerer, thank you for giving us five fine specimens ;)

Overall rating: 5 stars~ Riveting and breathtaking ♥

First:

He could feel the flames coming through the floor, looking for him. The sound of wood giving way was deafening.

Favourite:

Everyone likes to talk, he'd said. The trick is letting them talk long enough.  

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[Review] What I Didn't Say by Keary Taylor

Title: What I Didn't Say
Author: Keary Taylor
Published: April 30th 2012 by CreateSpace
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary, Romance.
Rating: ★★★★★
Goodreads summary:

Getting drunk homecoming night your senior year is never a good idea, but Jake Hayes never expected it all to end with a car crash and a t-post embedded in his throat.

His biggest regret about it all? What he never said to Samantha Shay. He's been in love with her for years and never had the guts to tell her. Now it's too late. Because after that night, Jake will never be able to talk again.

When Jake returns to his small island home, population 5,000, he'll have to learn how to deal with being mute. He also finds that his family isn't limited to his six brothers and sisters, that sometimes an entire island is watching out for you. And when he gets the chance to spend more time with Samantha, she'll help him learn that not being able to talk isn’t the worst thing that could ever happen to you. Maybe, if she'll let him, Jake will finally tell her what he didn't say before, even if he can't actually say it.

*thanks to the publisher for supplying me with a review copy of this ebook (via Netgalley)*

Emma's thoughts:

“Reality hasn't really sunk in yet, I knew that. I didn't want to know what life was going to feel like when it finally did.” 

Finishing this book, all I could think was that, Keary Taylor had created something indescribably magical. The story of Jake Hayes and Samantha Shay is one I know I'll never forget. I know I say that about a lot of books, but What I Didn't Say isn't just another romance novel. It's about appreciating life, especially the simple things. We take so many things for granted, but we don't realise how different our lives would be without those little things.

Jake Hayes lives on a small island with a tight knit population. And there's that one girl, there always is. He could never bring himself to voice his feelings for her, and the one time he actually has the guts to, he can't. Not surprisngly though, the car crash, him losing the capability to speak, is what brings Samantha and Jake together.

It's a genuine, and beautiful relationship. There isn't a lack of flaws, that's for sure, and I totally admire Sam. She's so strong, and such a respectable character. Jake might have to deal not being able to tell her his true feelings, but she has to deal with not knowing what exactly is on his mind before going on paper.

They share this notebook, filled with pages of their thoughts and their lives. And that's not something people these days do often enough. We don't take the time to reflect on our days and our actions. We only ever recount the physical actions, but we don't think enough about the meanings behind them and the people behind them. And in What I Didn't Say, Keary Taylor has filled it with little musings and truths about reality and each one is beautiful.

Jake has to deal with his whole world changing. He has to deal with his future of being a pilot disintegrating to ashes. He has to learn an entirely new language just to communicate. He can't even have a proper conversation with his friends anymore. And I think that's one of the most heartbreaking things. I can't imagine not being able to converse with my friends, not being able to have a simple conversation in the middle of the hallway, not being able to easily tell them about my day. He has to learn to communicate with actions, if at all.

Reading about them, Jake and Samantha deal with the confrontations of life; not only Jake not being able to speak, but Samantha's dilemmas and Jake's determination to help her through whatever, and also the big question of love - it's heartbreaking and moving. The sheer persistence they have, to keep on fighting and to keep on going no matter what, is awe-inspiring and I know I'll be revisiting their story time and time again.

Overall rating: 5 stars~ Actions truly speak louder than words ♥

First:

There were three things that I knew for sure about Orcas Island:
One: The people here were generally weird.

Favourite:

"How'd I get so lucky to have you?" she whispered against my chest. "You always take care of me."
I pressed my lips to her hair, squeezing her tighter.
I'm the lucky one.

Teaser:

 I wrote: 'Do you really not believe in love?'
I really wished I never would have asked.

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[Review] Lies Beneath by Anne Greenwood Brown

Title: Lies Beneath (Lies Beneath #1)
Author: Anne Greenwood Brown
Published: June 12th 2012 by Delacorte Books for Young Readers 
Genre: Young Adult, Romance, Urban Fantasy.
Rating: ★★★★ 
Goodreads summary:

Calder White lives in the cold, clear waters of Lake Superior, the only brother in a family of murderous mermaids. To survive, Calder and his sisters prey on humans, killing them to absorb their energy. But this summer the underwater clan targets Jason Hancock out of pure revenge. They blame Hancock for their mother's death and have been waiting a long time for him to return to his family's homestead on the lake. Hancock has a fear of water, so to lure him in, Calder sets out to seduce Hancock's daughter, Lily. Easy enough—especially as Calder has lots of practice using his irresistable good looks and charm on ususpecting girls. Only this time Calder screws everything up: he falls for Lily—just as Lily starts to suspect that there's more to the monsters-in-the-lake legends than she ever imagined. And just as his sisters are losing patience with him.

*thanks to the publisher for providing me an ARC in exchange for our honest thoughts! (via Netgalley)* 

Emma's thoughts: 

I've never really been one for mermaids and generally things involving the big, scary, deep sea, but Lies Beneath was truly a satisfying read. To me, in this book, mermaids are like underwater vampires. Deadly, hungry hunters, craving for humans. Not blood though, no. They suck the emotions from human beings. The emotions they lack themselves.

Calder White wasn't born a mermaid. No, he was 'changed' into one since before he can remember. Lies Beneath is told from his perspective (which is a nice, fresh view) and as the reader, we can sense his distance, his detachment to his sisters. Yes, sure, they're all linked in some kind of telepathic way that forces them together once a year, but he's never really been one of them. Killing humans, sucking away their happiness? That's not for Calder. I think, he's had too much time to think about life and the deep and meaningful aspects of it. I just have one question for him. What were you doing with your life before Lily? 

His sisters are evil and so, so, so infuriating! I kept hoping for one to turn out to be nice, or even half decent, but they're all just backstabbing and aggravating. They have this 'plan' to get revenge on Jason Hancock who allegedly killed their mother. And the plan? Get close to the daughter, lure him out to the ocean, and then kill. 

It's no surprise really that Calder falls in love with Lily Hancock, as impossible as their situation is. But there are wonderful twists and turns in the novel that really, truly blew my mind. 

Calder and Lily's relationship was a bit iffy for me at the start. It felt forced, and I suppose I could say because it was actually forced on Calder's end. I liked Lily though. She was a unique, sweet character who had a strange obsession with Victorian poets. They made a strangely beautiful couple and I just want to shoot Calder's stubborn, avenging sisters for getting in the way of everything ugh. 

Lies Beneath is definitely a worthwhile read about mer-beings and I'm greatly anticipating the sequel!

Overall rating: 4 stars~ An enthralling and exhilarating story!

Favourite Quotes:

"You're talking with your eyes again, Calder White. You know things. And I intend to know it all, too."

"See the stars, Lily?"
She sighed, surrendering. "Of course."
"Do you think they can see the sun coming?"
"I don't know. Probably?"
"Do you think they're scared?"
"They're burning balls of gas, Calder."

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[Review] Saving June by Hannah Harrington

Title: Saving June
Author: Hannah Harrington
Published: November 22nd 2011 by Harlequin Teen
Rating: ★★★★☆
Goodreads summary:

‘If she’d waited less than two weeks, she’d be June who died in June. But I guess my sister didn’t consider that.’

Harper Scott’s older sister has always been the perfect one so when June takes her own life a week before her high school graduation, sixteen-year-old Harper is devastated. Everyone’s sorry, but no one can explain why.

When her divorcing parents decide to split her sister’s ashes into his-and-her urns, Harper takes matters into her own hands. She’ll steal the ashes and drive cross-country with her best friend, Laney, to the one place June always dreamed of going, California.

Enter Jake Tolan. He’s a boy with a bad attitude, a classic-rock obsession and nothing in common with Harper’s sister. But Jake had a connection with June, and when he insists on joining them, Harper’s just desperate enough to let him. With his alternately charming and infuriating demeanour and his belief that music can see you through anything, he might be exactly what she needs.

Except June wasn’t the only one hiding something. Jake’s keeping a secret that has the power to turn Harper’s life upside down again.

*thanks to the publisher for providing me a review copy of this ebook (via Netgalley)*

Emma's thoughts:

How do I even begin to tell you about Saving June? Saving June is one of those book you won't really ever forget. I mean, it makes you appreciate life. And just being here, writing this, being somewhat happy is more than most people can say.

The story is exactly what it says it is. Harper, her best friend Laney, and Jake Tolan drive through state after state to deliver June's ashes to the shores of California. There's no big, huge twist (not really), and no mystery that keeps us on the edge of the seat, and yet, I couldn't stop reading! Just quite simply, the way Hannah Harrington writes is beautiful. Harper's thoughts were meaningful and completely relevant to everything in general. I could relate and I loved reading about Harper. She was a likable character and she never annoyed me! (Because plenty of MCs do!)

Her relationship(sort of) with Jake... ASDLKJHSGJKGFSKJLF.

You know it's going to happen, but it's not insta-love. It's geniune. And Jake, he's the true depiction of a boy. Always avoiding the things he doesn't want to talk about, extremely frustrating, and yet, you cannot help but to love him.

Their journey to California is an unforgettable one. They meet people, they do these crazy things, and it's just one of those things, I'd die for. To be so free, and just to go in and out of states, weaving from place to place. And on this journey, I became one of them. I experienced everything with Harper, Jake, and Laney. It's a spectacularly strange journey, but every up and every down, I was with them, and that's what made this book so utterly magical. Reading Saving June, I wasn't reading about a girl with a dead sister, I was Harper missing June.

I love the musical influence in this book. Not really the songs themselves, but to me, music is life. I'm glad Harper and Jake understand :)

I know I'll definitely be reading whatever Hannah Harrington writes next simply because her writing is absolutely beautiful.

Overall: 4.5 stars~ Unforgettable ♥

First:

 According to the puppy-of-the-month calendar, hanging next to the phone in the kitchen, my sister June died on a Thursday, exactly nine days before her high school graduation.

Favourite:

 "You keep being... nice. And then you do a total dickhead move, and then you redeem yourself by doing something stupid like letting yourself get punched in the face."

Teaser:

 “Careful, Harper. Someone might think you're actually enjoying yourself."
I can't suppress a smile. "Huh."
"Huh?" He quirks an eyebrow, "What was the 'huh' for?”

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[Review] Ghost Crown by J. Gabriel Gates & Charlene Keel

Title: Ghost Crown (The Tracks #2)
Author: J. Gabriel Gates & Charlene Keel
Published: June 5th 2012 by HCI Teens
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Paranormal
Rating: ★★★★★
Goodreads summary:

After their harrowing adventures, Middleburg's teens are hoping life will return to normal. Despite a tentative alliance between the goth Flatliners and the rich, preppie Toppers, any hope of peace is dashed when Topper girl Aimee arrives at the homecoming dance with Raphael, a Flatliner. A fight erupts between the two gangs and, in the midst of the rumble, a bizarre catastrophe occurs when Middleburg's homecoming queen discovers she has supernatural powers.
To make matters worse, Middleburg real-estate moguls who have bought up most of the land in the Flats have started evicting their tenants. They are searching for a priceless treasure prophesied in ancient Chinese writings and will stop at nothing to find it. But Raphael and his impoverished Flatliners vow to get it first and use it buy back their homes. Meanwhile, a handsome, charismatic half-angel, half-human comes to Middleburg with plans to steal Aimee from Raphael. As Raphael and his Flatliners and Zhai and his Toppers work to perfect their supernatural abilities and find the treasure, Aimee begins kung fu training, intent on becoming strong enough to locate and rescue her missing mother. When she discovers that the mysterious treasure may be the key to finding her mom, the race to find it intensifies.
But there are others who seek the treasure, too, forces powerful enough to reduce all of Middleburg, and perhaps the world, to ashes…

*thanks to the publishers for providing me a free copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review (via Netgalley)*

Emma's thoughts:

SPOILERS FOR Dark Territory (The Tracks #1). Read my review here.

I am once again, completely AWED by Gates and Keel's work. It's not even just the way he writes, but it's the depth of the concept and each intricate detail of each character. There is no way that I could possibly tell you how amazed I am by this book. And the thing is, I started reading this with high expectations, because the first novel in the series was mind-blowing. And Ghost Crown... it's a freaking apocalypse, I just can't even explain...

The way Ghost Crown is very normal, and innocent, but if you've read Dark Territory, you just know shit's gonna go down. My heart breaks for Raphael and Aimee. I liked that their romance felt natural, it wasn't a forced relationship that I feared it might be, but I can't say the same for Nass and Dalton. Especially with Clarisse in the way (what?! why was a new character necessary?!), but it was very necessary. And on the characters aspect, I am so torn about Maggie. Is she good? Is she bad? What is she?!! For this, I have to commend Gates and Keel for handing all the best powers to the character that could really, sway in either direction.

It's so hard to say anything without giving the whole story away, but basically Oberon has it in for Middleburg... so he brought his son. Now, this, I LOVE. I LOVE and I HATE Orias. I love the way Gates and Keel wrote him. I love the way he's the true depiction of the 'devil'. He's pure evil of course, but he's so. god. damn. tempting. I know I'd fall for him, I know I'd trip headfirst to him. Because hot damn. The devil is sexy, he's sweet, he's like that ultimate dessert. Oozing thick chocolate, a guaranteed heart attack with one bite.

Another thing that made me fall in love with this book? The introduction of the Bible's Watchers. Now, for those of you fantasy, paranormal lovers, you'll know what they're all about. Fallen angels. Oh, I could fall on my knees and thank Gates and Keel for making this the perfect story for me! I cannot tell you how much I love reading about fallen angels! Or just even, angels in general! Now, I'm not Christian, or even religious, but there's just something about angels that I absolutely adore, even if they're evil!

The influence of different cultures are clearly evident in this book. There's the constant reminder of 'the All', which I believe in the Chinese culture is the basis of everything, and 'Shen', translates to the soul or spirit. This whole idea of spirits, 'the All', and 'the Knowing' makes supernatural powers seem so much more natural. I mean, I'm sure you've all read books where everyone has their own 'power'. But in Ghost Crown, it makes it seem possible. It makes me believe that we all have some natural 'power' within us, something that we have that everyone else doesn't, and if we connect with 'the All', maybe our powers could manifest...

See, this is what books like these does to me! It makes me believe utter nonsense, but it's a wonderful thing truly; believing.

Reading Ghost Crown, I feel like I've died a thousand deaths. One for each character, each fight, each moment of realization. Half the time, I'm dying for more. More information, more action, more of the secrets of Middleburg. The tunnels, the powers, the possibilities. And when I read the words "To learn the truth. Come." I die again in anticipation.

Not many books affect me the way this has. I freak out, and yet beg for more. I want to cry, but out of shock or happiness? I never know. I can only thank Gates and Keel for creating such a masterpiece. 

Overall: 5 stars~ I feel like J. Gabriel Gates & Charlene Keel wrote this novel just for me :') 

First:

Raphael Kain's adversary cartwheeled forward and attacked with a barrage of flying fists and slashing elbows.

Favourite:

When one person helps another, the helper often gets even more benefit than the helper.

Teaser:

"The Magician told us that time is an illusion, that all time exists at once, but we're able to perceive only the present..."

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[Review] The Glimpse by Claire Merle

Title: The Glimpse
Author: Claire Merle
Published: June 7th 2012 by Faber & Faber
Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian, & Romance
Rating: ★★★★
Goodreads summary:

In a near future, society is segregated according to whether people are genetically disposed to mental illness. 17-year-old Ana has been living the privileged life of a Pure due to an error in her DNA test. When the authorities find out, she faces banishment from her safe Community, a fate only thwarted by the fact that she has already been promised to Pure-boy Jasper Taurell.

When Jasper disappears, Ana sets off on his trail, determined to solve the mystery of his abduction. In doing so she journeys into the darkest corners of society, and uncovers some devastating truths that destroy everything she’s ever believed.

*thanks to the publishers for the free copy of this ebook (via Netgalley)*

Emma's thoughts:

Okay first, I have to talk about the ending of this book...

AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!

 
IT JUST ENDS THERE?!?!?!

*takes a breath*

I can't bring myself to think about anything else other than the ending, and it's really, reaaaally, bugging me. Because right now, all I want to do is pull my hair out, fling my dear, old Mac across the room, hunt down Claire Merle and DEMAND her to write the second book.. NOW.

It took me a long while to get into this book. It starts off just as another other dystopian novel you find. The protagonist is this fancy new world where people are either 'crazy' or 'pure'. Now, Anna... She's both. She's a 'Sleeper' which means she has potential to be 'Crazy' but her symptoms have yet to present themselves. Now, if it was anyone else, they would've been exiled to the City to live with the rest of the Crazies, but Anna's dad is the one who invented the 'Crazy Or Pure' test.

What I found really interesting was the concept of knowing if someone's going to be mentally insane or depressed when they're five years old. It's mind-boggling to think that you could predict such a thing from such a young age. I'm talking about autism or such thing, but depression. How can you look at a child and be like 'Yep, he's bound to be depressed when he's older. Leave him in the City.'? It's interesting, and at the same time, kind of sad.

The novel is well written. It's got it's up and downs, and sometimes, kind of predictable. Of course, when it comes to Cole, anything predictable is good<3 And yes, that's right, Jasper is NOT the hero of the story. It's Cole, Cole, Cole. What is it with the name Cole? Cole in Everneath, Cole in Linger and Forever. Now, Cole in The Glimpse, he's so dreamy... At first glance, he's just a tough guy who possibly is the reason for Jasper's disappearance, but Anna wasn't expecting blue eyes and a talented pianist and composer.

I love how protective Cole is of Anna, but even he can't stop the terrors of the Mental Institution. I forget what it's really called in the novel, but it's freaky. I don't know how anybody would be able to handle being drowned and zapped on a daily basis. Anna changes, and she discovers truths hidden. The whole time, I'm freaking out for her, and praying for her, because really, there never appears to be a good outcome in anything that happens to her.

I can't say this is a particularly original novel, but I have to commend Claire Merle on her writing. It's just so wonderfully exciting and breath-taking and the ending leaves you dangling off the cliff, by a finger. If you like dystopian adventures, this is definitely a book for you!

Overall rating: 4 stars~ An intense and exhilarating journey!

First:

 Sometimes, when Ana hovered on the edge of sleep, she heard the patter of feet along the school corridor; she felt her best friend Tamsin close by - a near, warm presence like the imprint on a bed recently slept in; she saw the Board's saloon car pulling up outside the front of school, a white envelope glowing through one of their leather cases, whispering her name, her disease.

Favourite:

 Science isn't racist. Science is just an understanding of the physical workings of things. It's how we interpret and employ the knowledge that can't turn it into something corrupt.

Teaser:

 'You're joking?' she said.
'I'd never joke about kissing you.'

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[Review] Dust Girl by Sarah Zettel

Title: Dust Girl (The American Fairy Trilogy #1)
Author: Sarah Zettel
Published: Expected publication: June 26th 2012 by Random House Books for Young Readers
Rating: ★★★★
Goodreads summary:

This new trilogy will capture the hearts of readers who adore Libba Bray's Gemma Doyle series. Callie LeRoux lives in Slow Run, Kansas, helping her mother run their small hotel and trying not to think about the father she's never met. Lately all of her energy is spent battling the constant storms plaguing the Dust Bowl and their effects on her health. Callie is left alone, when her mother goes missing in a dust storm. Her only hope comes from a mysterious man offering a few clues about her destiny and the path she must take to find her parents in "the golden hills of the west" (California). Along the way she meets Jack a young hobo boy who is happy to keep her company—there are dangerous, desperate people at every turn. And there's also an otherworldly threat to Callie. Warring fae factions, attached to the creative communities of American society, are very aware of the role this half-mortal, half-fae teenage girl plays in their fate.

Emma's thoughts: 

First of all, can I just say that the cover really creeped me out?! I didn't realize the first time I looked, but when I received it on my Kindle... 'OH. MY. GOD.' True story.

Anyways, I love stories about faeries. I remember reading about those rainbow fairies when I was in primary school, but these faeries are downright evil! I mean, reading through this entire book, I could never, ever, ever figure out who to trust. Callie meets so many curious and suspicious characters through her journey, and each were portrayed wonderfully for their parts. But, it was awfully confusing. There's the usual Seelie court, and the Unseelie court. There's all these different types of faeries, and I just couldn't get it right. Who is what? Who can you trust? Who's wants to kill you now!?

There was really not a moment in Dust Girl where you can be calm and just breeze through, because really, it seems like Jack and Callie are always on the run.  It was exciting and refreshing to not have a predictable storyline. I never knew what was going on and where Jack and Callie would end up, but boy was it intense!

Jack was seriously awesome in this book! Callie might've hated his constant chatter, but I loved it. An aspiring writer with a face that no one can resist? Sounds pretty darn close to perfect to me! I'm so glad he gets his closure in the end. 

The whole concept of faeries and wishes was truly magical. The way Sarah Zettel presented the faeries was wonderful. She brought the music, the evil beauty, and the trickery so neatly together. I was truly captured.

I really enjoyed Callie's journey and I can't wait to find out what happens next for her and Jack. So much is due to happen and I hope Callie makes the right decision!

Rating: 4 stars~ Fast-paced and action-packed. Unputdownable!  

*I received an ARC of this book so these quotes are subject to change*

First:

Once upon a time, I was a girl called Callie. That, however, ended on Sunday, April 14, 1935. 

Favourite:

 "Come on, you big bug!" I hefted the frying pan, dripping sticky Coca-Cola glaze. "You wanna take a bite outta me? Come on and try it!"

Teaser:

 “Now that you know the wishing ways, you'll feel the wishes around you. They'll make you itchy, 'cause you know you can do something about them, but that ain't always the best idea.”

Thanks to the publisher for a free copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review (via Netgalley).

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UPDATED! [Review] The Hunt by Andrew Fukuda + Audiobook Clip

The audiobook preview is added at the bottom :)

Title: The Hunt
Author: Andrew Fukuda
Published: May 8th by St. Martin's Griffin
Rating: ★★★
Goodreads summary:

Don’t Sweat.  Don’t Laugh.  Don’t draw attention to yourself.  And most of all, whatever you do, do not fall in love with one of them.
 
Gene is different from everyone else around him.  He can’t run with lightning speed, sunlight doesn’t hurt him and he doesn’t have an unquenchable lust for blood.  Gene is a human, and he knows the rules.  Keep the truth a secret.  It’s the only way to stay alive in a world of night—a world where humans are considered a delicacy and hunted for their blood.
 
When he’s chosen for a once in a lifetime opportunity to hunt the last remaining humans, Gene’s carefully constructed life begins to crumble around him.  He’s thrust into the path of a girl who makes him feel things he never thought possible—and into a ruthless pack of hunters whose suspicions about his true nature are growing. Now that Gene has finally found something worth fighting for, his need to survive is stronger than ever—but is it worth the cost of his humanity?

*thanks to the publishers for the free copy of this ebook (via Netgalley)*

Emma's thoughts:

I had high hopes for this book. Really, I did.

It starts off a bit strangely. It's narrated in first person by a boy whose name we don't find out until near the end (which by the way, says Gene up there^). He's human, unlike the rest of the world. Every day, he has to clean, shave, and take impeccable care of himself to make sure he doesn't reveal his true self. This, I find a little disconcerting because how does a mere human survive in a world full of vampires?! And especially if vampires can smell and run and do everything twenty times than 'hepers' (humans). Like... HOW?!! And how has he managed not to run in sport classes for his entire life? How has he not managed to reveal that he needs light to read when their classrooms are in near darkness?

Getting to know Gene is an interesting journey. He's apparently good looking and really smart. I liked him alright at first, but I just kind of started to doubt him. There's no way he would've survived like a day surrounded by vampires and not have them eat him. But hey, it does say that vampires aren't all that smart, so maybe they can't smell their most craved and hunted meal right under their noses.

Gene is always reminding himself, 'Don't stand out. Don't do this. Don't do that.' His father was found out several years back, and just somehow, he's been living by himself since then. No income? No one coming to check up on him? Okay... But when he's one of the lucky ones to be a participant of 'The Hunt', he can't not stand out. He can't pretend not to crave human flesh and not salivate at the mere thought.

The lead up to the Hunt is actually pretty exciting. Here's when we find out all sorts of weird tid bits of information. Like how Gene was specifically chosen to stay in the library away from the other vampires, and how The Scientist, supposedly another heper, also resided in the library once. And then there are the hepers they're to hunt. It's sad, and it's gruesome the way the hunters drool and scratch their wrists (yes, this is their way of laughing. Evidently vampires don't show emotions), thinking hepers of nothing but more than a good feeding. I wanted to slap the vampires over the head more than I did Gene, because c'mon! HE'S RIGHT THERE! And all the time, they're going about 'I smell heper! There must be a heper in here! A heper must've snuck in!'

*facepalm*

Gene, being human and all and needing to drink water and wash, unlike the other hunters, finds himself entering the Dome, where the hepers are kept. All five of them. I love and hate how he feels like he's completely superior to them. It's so realistic, but then it makes me want to hit him because honestly, he's not much better than them at all.

And I mustn't forget Ashley June! I'm torn about her honestly. She's smart, and at the same time, a bit selfish, but then, she's completely selfless too. It's a little awkward between her and Gene, but hey, since when did rubbing arms become something of the norm?

I did enjoy reading this, I did. Gene running and constantly in fear of being found was a continuous roller coaster and a rush of adrenalin.

Overall rating: 3 stars~ An interesting take on vampires!

First:

There used to be more of us. I'm certain of this.

Favourite:

She smiles the widest I've seen; a small sound escapes her throat.
"That's called 'laughter'," I tell her.

Teaser:

Never forget who you are.

 

Thank you to the lovely Esther for sending me this audiobook clip from Macmillan Audio! Do give it a listen :) 

 

The Hunt by Andrew Fukuda

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[Review] Tomorrow Land by Mari Mancusi

Title: Tomorrow Land
Author: Mari Mancusi
Published: March 8th 2012 by NLA Digital
Genre: YA Science Fiction, Dystopian, Zombies, Apocalyptic, Romance.
Rating: ★★★★
Goodreads summary:

Can true love survive the end of the world?

Imagine finding your first love, only to be ripped apart by the apocalypse. Peyton Anderson will never forget the day she was forced to make a choice--between her family--and Chris Parker, the boy she'd given her heart. Now, four years later, as she steps from the fallout shelter and into a dead and broken world, he's the only thing on her mind.
All Chris "Chase" Parker wanted was to take Peyton away and keep her safe from harm. But he waited for hours in the rain on judgment day and she never showed--breaking his heart without ever telling him why.
Now the two of them have been thrown together once again, reluctant chaperones to a group of orphan children in a post-apocalyptic world where the dead still walk...and feed. As they begin their pilgrimage to the last human outpost on Earth, can they find a way to let go of old hurts and find the love they lost--all while attempting to save what's left of the human race?

Emma's thoughts:

Cover:

Okay, first things first. I LOVE the cover. I usually hate covers where you can actually see the models' faces, but this one... This is AWESOME. They both just look so bad ass. And then there's Chris/Chase with his rugged handsomeness... *drools*. I personally wouldn't mind if he was the only guy alive on Earth with me.

First Impression:

It was very 'WTF' for me. The first chapter starts off with this whiny fifteen year old girl who has a cute stalker guy and a jerk as a boyfriend. And here I thought I was reading about zombies and apocalypses... 

Writing:

BUT NEVER YOU FEAR! The story is actually alternating chapters of the past and present. Which, by the way, works really well. Especially since, at the beginning, we're left wondering as to why she had to make that oh-so-important decision between her family and her friends. Along with that, within the chapter, you get the two different perspectives from Peyton and Chris.

Characters:

Chris/Chase, whatever you want to call him... this guy... he's just, so, so, so utterly unreal! Or, at least he was in 2030. Stalker? Pfft. He was sweet, charming, and so adorable! I don't see why Peyton needed to be chased by a zombie for her to realize utterly amazing he was. But that was in 2030. In 2034, Chase is nineteen, he's pretty much alone in the plagued world, and he's got real problems. He's not perfect. I seriously wanted to punch his face in for getting addicted to painkillers, but hey, I don't think I'd be any different if I was in his situation. Not everyone can be strong and fearless like Trey, and that was just Chase's way of dealing with the harsh reality. But thank god for Peyton. 

I hated Peyton in 2030. She was semi stuck up and semi stupid. She was your average teenage girl with your average dickhead boyfriend. But don't get me wrong. Four years later, she becomes this strong, determined girl out to save the dying world. She's an awesome heroine and together with Chase, they're unstoppable. Most of the time. They have their ups and downs, and I loved almost every bit of it. It wasn't a perfect relationship, but trust me, you'll be rooting for them the entire way.

Story:

But Peyton has this crazy dad, who's convinced the government is spying on all of them and the end of the world is coming. Of course, he's right and he 'enhances' Peyton with special vision and razor nails. Then he locks her up with her mother for four years and tells Peyton to come find him at Disneyland when the doors open. Disneyland! Peyton blindly follows his orders, but not before she bumps into Chase, aka the Chris she used to know, and guess what? He follows her to Disneyland...

...with about five younger kids! This is what made it an incredible journey. There were children. Living, breathing, children. They may've been a nuisance, they may've been annoying, but they made it real. THANK YOU MARI MANCUSI! Thank you for acknowledging that there WILL be children in the dystopian future, and that they won't just be magically looked after and that they WILL have to be a part of the journey, whether we like it or not.

Overall:

Tomorrow land is a promising dystopian/post-apocalyptic novel of true love and survival. It's a stand-alone book, as far as I can tell... but, be sure to check out Mari Mancusi's upcoming dystopian, Alternity. There's a wonderful sneak preview at the end of Tomorrow Land, and I'll be sure to get myself a copy when it comes out!

Overall rating: 4 stars ~ Thrilling, adventurous, heart-breaking and just simply exhilarating!

First:

"I wouldn't go out with Chris Parker if he were the last guy on Earth!"

Broke my heart:

"What about me?" he whispered. "I needed you too."

Teaser:

"...You could use some brains. Especially if we're stuck living through Armageddon. You wouldn't want zombies to kill you and find there's nothing to eat."

*Thanks to the publisher for the free copy of this ebook (via Netgalley)* 

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[Review] Putting Boys On The Ledge by Stephanie Rowe

Title: Putting Boys On The Ledge (A Girlfriend's Guide To Boys #1)
Author: Stephanie Rowe
Published: Published October 31st 2011 by TKA Distribution
Rating: ★★★
Goodreads summary:

Meet Blueberry Waller, whose name is the only interesting thing about her life. Until now.

Not only is Blue dealing with the worst name in the world, crazy parents and a clingy younger sister, she just got a part in the school play. And now she’s acting with Heath Cavendish, total crush-worthy senior. He would never give a second look to a girl like Blue. Except he has.

Her friends say Blue should play it cool, put Heath on the Ledge so she can keep the upper hand. Trouble is, she doesn’t know how to be clever around boys. Thankfully her pal Colin offers his help in teaching her how to get the guy. But he’s just being a good friend. Isn’t he?

Suddenly the wallflower is getting all the attention. But will being in the spotlight keep Blue from making the right decisions...for her?

A Girlfriend’s Guide to Boys: For these four friends, understanding the world of boys is only half the battle.

Emma's thoughts:

Blue is a fourteen year old girl. I am fourteen years old. That's where the similarities end. I always have so much trouble reading stories about teenagers my age, or younger. First of all, they never get it right - to me anyways. I realise that Stephanie Rowe didn't exactly write this two days ago and things change a lot, even within a year. But just in general, I think you have to be fourteen to write about being fourteen. Of course, this is not the same case for every other age, but the fact is, fourteen is an awkward stage. Girls are in and out of puberty, boys are short and scrawny or way too tall, and nobody likes to remember when they were fourteen years of age. Nothing happens at this stage. Parties and alcohol are reserved for those deemed cool enough by the older kids and sex is either too confronting or just perverted.

But maybe I'm just too biased for my own good. Stephanie Rowe did get most of it right though, I'll give her that. It's just that she wrote about the girls in my class that I hate. 'Oh my god guys, look there's Jake! Should I say hi?!' 'Do you really think he likes me? Even with my small boobs!?' It's a nightmare, I tell you (Not the book! The girls!). But one thing that I did find really weird in this? A boy in Year 12 would never, ever, ever, ever, ever look at a girl in Year 9. Even if they had to work together in a school production. Even if they had great chemistry on stage. I just... No. I could not wrap my head around that. Heath just CREEPED me out.

Blue, other than her annoying obsession with Heath and her, was actually pretty funny. I loved her friends. They made an awesome group. Allie and Frances were pretty awesome. I'd really love to read Frances' story. Sounds uber exciting with the whole best friend's brother she-bang!

Colin was another character I liked. I wish, I wish, I wish I could come across a guy like him! All I ever seem to see is endless Heaths *sigh*. He just had his own, cute confidence that was attractive in an entirely different way. But again with the whole age difference! Colin (no offense, Blue) could've done much better. But still, it was fun to read, and comical to say the least! So many quirky moments of the stories I could partly relate to and nod along in recognition.

It was a nice, simple read about teenagers attempting to fit into your typical high school and reeling in guys from all different angles, tempting them to the edge of the Ledge.

Rating: 3 stars~ A quick fun and entertaining read!

First:

The only way to survive boys is to put them on the Ledge as often as possible.

Favourite:

Forget boys and read a good book. Or study. When you're twenty-five and raking in the big bucks, men will be falling all over you because you're a successful professional woman.

Teaser:

"You want me to decide whether you want to be kissed?"

Thanks to the publisher for the free copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review (via Netgalley).

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[Review] Revealing Eden by Victoria Foyt

Title: Revealing Eden
Author: Victoria Foyt
Published: January 10th 2012 by Sand Dollar Press Inc.
Rating: ★★★
Goodreads summary:

Eden Newman must mate before her 18th birthday in six months or she'll be left outside to die in a burning world. But who will pick up her mate-option when she's cursed with white skin and a tragically low mate-rate of 15%? In a post-apocalyptic, totalitarian, underground world where class and beauty are defined by resistance to an overheated environment, Eden's coloring brands her as a member of the lowest class, a weak and ugly Pearl. If only she can mate with a dark-skinned Coal from the ruling class, she'll be safe. Just maybe one Coal sees the Real Eden and will be her salvation her co-worker Jamal has begun secretly dating her. But when Eden unwittingly compromises her father's secret biological experiment, she finds herself in the eye of a storm and thrown into the last area of rainforest, a strange and dangerous land. Eden must fight to save her father, who may be humanity's last hope, while standing up to a powerful beast-man she believes is her enemy, despite her overwhelming attraction. Eden must change to survive but only if she can redefine her ideas of beauty and of love, along with a little help from her "adopted aunt" Emily Dickinson.

Emma's thoughts:

I really hoped for more for this story. It has such a promising story, and the idea was great, but Eden was so annoying! I get that most MC's are in the beginning of a dystopian novel, but she never changed! I mean, yes, Eden did say something about looking at the world differently, but she was still annoying. I could not stand her, really I just couldn't. I want to grab her, shake her, and smack some sense into that girl!

She's all high and mighty - which is ironic because her skin colour puts her virtually at the bottom of the ladder - and thinks she knows everything! When she says over and over again that Bramford is bad, I'm really not sure who she's trying to convince. Her dad, me, or herself? She wants to go home, but HELLO, it's been destroyed, she has no friends to go back to, and how would she be safer with the people that obviously hate her skin colour as opposed to friendly natives that worship her rescuer?!

So there's my little rant about the MC, but really, I loved the whole idea of the book. The fact that in Eden's world, the darker your skin, the more authority you apparently have. I mean, this brings racism onto a whole new level.

My history class was actually discussing this the other day. So apparently the European colonies bombarded pretty much the entire African continent because they thought they were infinitely superior to the dark skinned people that obviously didn't understand them. The European had guns and machinery and so they went 'HA. We are CLEARLY more advanced and smarter than you, so therefore you can be our slaves and clean our floors!'

But in Revealing Eden, Victoria Foyt explores this idea of sun flares. I'm sure we all have that friend with really pale skin that's permanently red in summer. So that's Eden and every other white person in the novel. But the difference is that they supposedly die from these flares. So in this case, you have the darker skinned people laughing, 'Karma's a BITCH honey! We can survive the sun but YOU can't, so bow down to us!'

In comes scary, half-man, half-jaguar, Bramford. He's arrogant, bossy, and a megalomaniac. Did I mention half-jaguar?!? I had the hardest time trying to imagine this jaguar/man creature... I just, don't understand...! But other than his utterly confusing appearances, I really liked him. He was smart, confident, totally crush-worthy, and way too good for Eden! I mean, really, even after he makes a clearly correct statement, she still has the nerve to question him. He could seriously do better.

Bramford's secret is really a touching one. I cannot wait to see where it leads with the next novels!

Rating: 3 stars~ Not a fan of the MC, but everything else was great.

 First:

 Eden jumped at the sound of approaching steps.

Favourite:

"You're a blind and selfish girl who cannot see the greater good."

If you're asking me why this is my favourite. It's because it's TRUE. 

Teaser:

"Make it past the snake god and you live happily ever after. Fail, and you come back to earth as an animal."

Thanks to the publisher for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review (via Netgalley).

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[Adult Review] Spin by Catherine McKenzie

Title: Spin
Author: Catherine McKenzie
Published: 7th February 2012 by HarperCollins Publishers (Kindle/ebook)
Genre: Adult, Romance, Contemporary.
Rating: ★★★★★
Goodreads summary:

Katie Sandford has just gotten an interview at her favourite music magazine, The Line. It's the chance of a lifetime. So what does she do? Goes out to celebrate - and shows up still drunk at the interview. No surprise, she doesn't get the job, but the folks at The Line think she might be perfect for another assignment for their sister gossip rag. All Katie has to do is follow It Girl Amber Sheppard into rehab. If she can get the inside scoop (and complete the 30-day program without getting kicked out), they'll reconsider her for the job at The Line.

Katie takes the job. But things get complicated when real friendships develop, a cute celebrity handler named Henry gets involved, and Katie begins to realize she may be in rehab for a reason. Katie has to make a decision -- is publishing the article worth everything she has to lose?

Emma's thoughts:
“Imagine if Bridget Jones fell into a million little pieces, flew over the cuckoo’s nest, and befriended Lindsay Lohan along the way, and you are beginning to grasp the literary roller coaster ride that is Catherine McKenzie’s Spin.”

—Leah McLaren, author of The Continuity Girl

That is by far, the truest thing I've heard about this book.

I cannot even begin to explain how I feel about Spin. At first, I read the summary, thinking this would be a cute, easy read. Cute and easy doesn't even come close. Roller coaster is right.

Entering Kate's world is, I have to say, entertaining. She's a fun, relatable, and had me cracking up every page. I felt like this was a long novel, but not in the sense that it was boring, but I felt like after finishing this, I've lived an entire life with Kate, and the Oasis crew. When I first read about Kate's 'assignment', I admit it, I guffawed. Spy in rehab? Well, let me tell you this, I did not expect an intense, emotional, and utterly touching journey.

Amber (aka The Girl Next Door, aka TGND, aka the subject of the assignment) is a curious character. The first thing you hear from her is "Wrebbit!" An excellent actress, but a surprisingly deep and sentimental girl. She's moody and slightly eccentric, totally over the rails, but as Kate gets to know her, Amber managed to snuggle into a place in my heart. She's like a child, that you just can't help but to worry and care for.

I absolutely love the way all the relationships were developed in this story (with the exception of TGND and YJB's). Even with Saundra, Katie's therapist, dog-obsessed, and irritably stiff. Their discussions really introduces us to Katie and her upbringing. Thirty years old, aspiring journalist and an avid drinker, she begins to realize that maybe she does have a problem, and maybe she does need help.

Not only hearing about Kate's life, but everyone else's life in group therapy, it made me realize that people do actually have these problems. My life is tightly wound in bubble wrap in this sickeningly perfect community, and the closest thing I get to the real world is the news and books like these.

You learn to love each and every individual character. Even YJB grew on me! And when it's over, the saddest feeling washed over me. I was reluctant to finish this book. I didn't want to leave this family Kate had found. Her old friends, and the new ones.

This quote, I don't ever want to forget:

"...I know what messy is, and it isn't love. No, love is supposed to be simple. It's supposed to be about brushing raindrops off eyelashes, and looks across a crowded room. It's supposed to be about watching a shooting star, or the way a leaf falls off a tree and floats to the ground.
It's supposed to be about apple peels."

Henry and Kate's budding relationship was delightful to read about. It wasn't insta-love, it wasn't 'oh-i-can't-live-without-you!' It was just two people, affectionate, but cautious, and wary of the consequences (but c'mon, who can resist a delectable redhead with a witty mouth?).

I am so glad I requested this book. It deserves to be well-known and swooned over. Definitely a new favourite :)

I recommend this to: Anyone who loves a humorous, heart-warming read, or just really EVERYONE.
  

Rating: 5 stars~ Had me up til 4:30am! I just could not stop reading.

First:

This is how I lose my dream job.

Favourite:

His three days of stubble makes him look rugged and dangerous, like he could kill you with his bare hands. 

Teaser:

Never get involved in a land war in Asia.

Thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review (via Netgalley) 

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[Review] Pure by Julianna Baggott

Title: Pure
Author: Julianna Baggott
Published: Expected publication: February 8th 2012 by Grand Central Publishing
Series: Trilogy (Pure #1)
Rating: ★★★★
Goodreads summary:

We know you are here, our brothers and sisters . . .
Pressia barely remembers the Detonations or much about life during the Before. In her sleeping cabinet behind the rubble of an old barbershop where she lives with her grandfather, she thinks about what is lost-how the world went from amusement parks, movie theaters, birthday parties, fathers and mothers . . . to ash and dust, scars, permanent burns, and fused, damaged bodies. And now, at an age when everyone is required to turn themselves over to the militia to either be trained as a soldier or, if they are too damaged and weak, to be used as live targets, Pressia can no longer pretend to be small. Pressia is on the run.
Burn a Pure and Breathe the Ash . . .
There are those who escaped the apocalypse unmarked. Pures. They are tucked safely inside the Dome that protects their healthy, superior bodies. Yet Partridge, whose father is one of the most influential men in the Dome, feels isolated and lonely. Different. He thinks about loss-maybe just because his family is broken; his father is emotionally distant; his brother killed himself; and his mother never made it inside their shelter. Or maybe it's his claustrophobia: his feeling that this Dome has become a swaddling of intensely rigid order. So when a slipped phrase suggests his mother might still be alive, Partridge risks his life to leave the Dome to find her.
When Pressia meets Partridge, their worlds shatter all over again.

Emma's thoughts:

The Maze Runner meets Gone, and their baby? Meet Pure.

Dive into this world ten years after a devastating catastrophe that leaves half the population cowering in Domes, and the other half... gruesomely disfigured. Told from the perspectives of five very different characters, we see this new world as broken and totally out of it's mind.

I adored each of the characters in this novel. We're first introduced to Pressia and her doll-head hand. The whole concept of being 'fused' to objects had me really confused, but it gave each of the characters a little more quirk. I especially loved Bradwell's birds. At first, I assumed birds referred tattoos, so imagine my surprise when I found out they moved! Think about that, having to live every moment of everyday with birds in your back.

Partridge's life was a little easier to relate to. Having a father with the ultimate power ensured him a safe life within the walls of the Dome. His life is perfect. No one is suffering. No one is disfigured nor poor. They don't even realize the horrors that go on outside of the walls. Partridge wants to get out. Find the mother that hurt his father so dearly.

I think, wanting to escape is something we all can comprehend. But, what happens when you do escape? Where are you escaping to?

Prepare yourself for an exciting and riveting journey. Meet El Capitan and Helmund, Ingership, Our Good Mother, and the two masterminds, good and bad. Again, I have to say how well each characters were written. The evil ones too. The twists and turns in this book were most definitely unexpected.

Everything is weaved together with intricate detail and obviously a lot of work as been put into the process. I had a hard time keeping up, but wow. I cannot explain how intense this entire book was. I couldn't stop reading, I couldn't even stop to catch a breath. I was constantly freaking out for Pressia, or Partridge, even Bradwell.

Bradwell started off as an annoyance ('pedantic' as Pressia put it), but his passion for his beliefs really struck me. He understood so much, and took all into consideration, but he stood his ground. I admire people like him.

Also, I liked the theme of birds in this book. Partridge, Lyda's wire bird, Bradwell's back, and the story of the mother swan! I think that's all that I can think of from the top of my head.

I'm so very looking forward to the sequel of Pure! It's bound to be another gripping adventure that'll have the readers' clenching their seats in anticipation!

 

The covers above are the Australian covers. I saw these in my local bookstore a few days ago. Isn't it just striking??

I recommend this to: Anyone who loves an intense, action-packed and thrilling read!

Rating: 4 stars~ Everything a dystopian lover could ever dream of! 

First:

There was a low droning overhead a week or so after the Detonations; time was hard to track.

Favourite:

"Beautiful? It's a scar."
"It's a sign of survival."

Teaser:

"If you were smart, you'd walk away too," Bradwell says. "Generosity and charity can get you killed."

Thanks publisher for a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review (via Netgalley).

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