My Bookish Review: The Raven Boys

The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater

Published: 18th September 2012
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Series: Raven Cycle #1
Pages: 408

Even if Blue hadn't been told her true love would die if she kissed him, she would stay away from boys. Especially the ones from the local private school. Known as Raven Boys, they only mean trouble.

But this is the year everything will change for blue.

This is the year she will be drawn into the strange and sinister world of the Raven Boys. And the year Blue will discover that magic does exist.

This is the year she will fall in love.

I'm not a huge fan of Maggie Stiefvater's previous books. I started Shiver, and then only got halfway in Linger. However, those books were about werewolves - mythical creatures I'm not keen on. On the other hand, The Raven Boys is about psychics - something I am keen on.

I like the fact that the blurb of this book doesn't give much away. I didn't even know who the main love interest was. Still not sure, actually. Despite this, it made me eager to read it. It's quite a good synopsis.

The main character is Blue Sargent, and even though the book's written in third person, I still managed to understand her. She's the daughter of a psychic, living with her mother and aunts in a not-so-rich background. Ever since she was little, she's been told by every psychic she's ever seen - including her own mother - that if she ever kisses her true love, he'll die. Blue herself doesn't possess any sixth sense, but she does heighten the powers of those who do. So every St. Mark's Eve she tags along with her mother, except this year she's been sent with her half-aunt. Whilst at the graveyard she sees the spirit of a boy - something she's never seen before. It can only mean one thing... either she's killed him, or he's her true love, *gasp*.

The boy who she sees in the graveyard turns out to be an extremely wealthy, good-looking Aglionby student. called Gansey. Yep, he's from that local private school that Blue hates because practically everyone Raven Boy there is the same as the previous: conceited, arrogant, with plenty of riches. Gansey has three close friends - Adam Perrish, Ronan Lynch and Noah. This is the part where it gets complicated, because Gansey isn't the one who asks her out, Adam is. That makes it kind of hard for him to be her true love if she's with one of his best friends, pointing to the conclusion that she's the one who kills him... but there's something going on between Gansey and Blue.

I found myself falling for Gansey, not Adam. Gansey's more confident and charming, while Adam has a secondhand Aglionby uniform and lives as poorly as Blue. I did try to like Adam, but I think/hope that Maggie wants the reader to prefer Gansey, due to the fact that he's Blue's true love. I sincerely think/hope this. Emphasis on the latter.

Then there's Ronan... He's undoubtedly the bad-boy. Always getting into fights and having a reputation in Aglionby, I enjoyed any page with his name on it. He's also undoubtedly my favourite. So I thought I'd dedicate a paragraph to let you know how awesome he is.

The Raven Boys has a continuous mystery feel to it. I can't believe I overlooked the way in which Stiefvater writes. In her previous books I just found it boring, but in this one, it was one of the main things that caused me to turn every page. I love good description. Not description that is unnecessarily long and hard to make sense of. This book's setting was painted very well, something which I think is very hard to find.

Their wasn't a lot of romance in this book. Like, not even a kiss. I know that's kind of obvious (considering the whole "If you kiss your true love, he will die." theme) but still. Although having said that, the The Raven Boys was still engaging. I get scared very easily, so I made a big mistake by reading this while everyone was asleep and I was the only one awake during the few hours before midnight. You can tell the plot's being well-thought of and there were quite a few times where I almost injured myself because of the amount of times I was shocked at the end of a chapter.

Overall, The Raven Boys is a book I recommend if you're someone who prefers a heavy plot instead of a light romance.  I did really enjoy the book, but I don't think it's something I'd re-read. Nevertheless, I'll still be waiting for the second book in the series. This book has even made me willing to read some of Maggie Stiefvater's other series.

4/5 Stars - This book provoked the thinking side of my bookish thoughts.

Teaser Quote:

"There are only two reasons a non-seer would see a spirit on St Mark's Eve. Either you're his true love," Neeve said, "or you killed him."

Amazon | Goodreads | Author's website

Waiting on Wednesday #2

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event hosted over at Breaking the Spine.

I saw the cover of it over at Midnight Reads, and then remembered it. I've read the first two books as soon as they've been released and I can't wait to get a hold of this one.The book I'm talking about is...

... Goddess (Starcrossed #3) by Josephine Angelini:

She must rise, or they will fall ...Helen's powers are increasing--and so is the distance between her and her mortal friends. To make matters worse, the Oracle reveals that a dangerous traitor is lurking among them, and all fingers point to Orion. Still unsure whether she loves him or Lucas, Helen is forced to make a terrifying decision, or risk all-out war. The final book in this heart-stopping trilogy.

Publication: 6th June 2013

Ahhhh!!!! It's just too much to handle *faints*
*gets back up again*
But it's being released in June. Such a while away. Sad face.

My Bookish Review: Finale

Finale by Becca Fitzpatrick

Published: 23rd October 2012
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Series: Hush, Hush #4
Pages: 454

How are you supposed to react when a series you've loved for three years leaves you? No, seriously. Please help me here - I'm having a meltdown. 

Patch and Nora - a fallen angel and nephilim. In love at a time when both their races are on the brink of a war. Will their love survive? This is the conclusion to the much loved series Hush, Hush, written by Becca Fitzpatrick. It's the series that might just tempt me to start reading mystery novels.

I do admit though; when I first saw the cover, I thought "Finale? Really...?" However, I got used to it, in fact, I ended up liking the title. Also, the cover fits in with the rest of the series, so I think the writer and publisher did it justice. 

Nora Grey is a character it's hard not to fall in love with. You can tell how determined she is with whatever she puts her mind to. The fact that she doesn't sit around and wait for Patch to solve all of her hardcore problems proves quite a lot. Then there's Patch... wink, wink, nudge, nudge. He's the baddest that bad boys can get. He used to go to casinos... that's pretty bad in my eyes. 

Finale is a book that I can completely imagine as a crime TV drama. The way it's written never failed to keep me on edge and the plots were just genius. I'd just be casually reading along when - all of a sudden - there's some big turn of events with someone who you'd never think would betray Nora. Well, they just did. True, at times I'd have to read a paragraph or two to get the gist of the story-line, but it was worth it. 

The final fight-scene in this book was well constructed... but it may have lasted too long. I don't know if it's just me, but with a fight scene I want it to be short and precise - it's more engaging that way. Yet, like I said: maybe that's just me. 

Becca Fitzpatrick is a really good writer. There were certain moments in the book, that needed certain emotions, which could only be achieved by using certain words - she knew the words. 

All I have to say, is that this book is an epic conclusion to an epic series. You'll need to read the previous books in the series before starting it, and it'll be worth the reads. As soon as I turned the last page I felt an emotion I had not expected... sadness. It was over. The books I loved so dearly. Sob. 

In conclusion, if you see this book in a bookstore - don't you dare walk past it. Pick it up and read the blurb and decide if you're going to buy it or not. I'd buy it if I were you. 

4.5/5 Stars - Finale is a book I seriously recommend.

Teaser Quote:

"Kiss me in a way I'll never forget. Kiss me in a way that will stay with me until I see you again."

 
Amazon | Goodreads | Author's website

Book Haul (#1)

Hi guys! So, I have some new books I've managed to get a hold of this week so I thought - I'll do a book haul. I'll be doing them everytime I have quite a few new books I'd like to share.

This week I have:

Finale by Becca Fitzpatrick (eBook) - I actually just finished this today. Loved the whole series. Review will be posted soon. :)

The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater (Library) - Been hearing big things about this series. Although I wasn't a huge fan of her Shiver series, I'm willing to give this a go as the story seems interesting.

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green (Borrowed) -

I borrowed this off a friend because I've been hearing about it everywhere. Apparently it's good. I can't wait to read it and finally see what all the fuss is about.

The Iron Witch by Karen Mahoney (eBook) - Oooh... look at the cover! It seems like a book I'd read - the cover's cool, the blurb's cool, the title's cool. It's all cool. 

Dark Star by Bethany Frenette (eBook) -

What? A book about... superheroes? I'm not a huge fan of comics, but I do love comic-based movies. Guess I'll just have to wait and see if I'll like it. 

My Bookish Review: Seeking Crystal

Seeking Crystal by Joss Stirling

Published: 4th October 2012
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Series: Benedicts #3
Pages: 258

I was expecting a lot from this book. Checking the author's website numerous times, countless days of waiting, fantasising about reading the book at last - it all had to add up to something,  right? At last,  I can say with full conviction: I was not disappointed. 

The book starts by introducing us to the main character, the person who's perspective we see. Crystal Brook is a very tall, very funny and very normal nineteen-year-old. That's right... normal. Unlike her whole family, she's not been blessed with extraordinary powers - therefore, in the eyes of the Savant world, making her a failure. She's spends her whole life believing she's worthless and good-for-nothing. This just made me empathise with her so much. I've never read any book with a protagonist who was insecure of herself. Have I had heroines who are way too whiny? Yes. Heroines who are way too feisty? Yes. Heroines who are beautiful in their own way, model-looks aside, yet still feel uncomfortable in their skin? No.

Of course, the fact that she's the youngest of six older, successful siblings doesn't help. Neither does the fact that she's lost one of her parents . Then, suddenly, her older sister Diamond finds her one-and-only in the infamous Benedict family. Yay. Everything would be alright for Crystal, if another of the Benedicts didn't happen to be some annoying, conceited, yet charmingly handsome guy. That's right. I'm talking about Xavier Benedict.

Ah, Xav. Who wouldn't love Xav? He's one of my favourite out of all the brothers and I can't help but wish he was real. I have a full-blown fictional crush on him. So why does Crystal hate him so much? However, the more I read of the book, the more I understood her reasons. In fact, it made me like her even more; she's not another fickle character. She can actually try and resist his alluring charm and gifted good-looks. Crystal's pretty real for someone fictional. 

Then came the setting. I've never personally been to Venice, but the way Joss Stirling decides to construct its description makes me want to see all its beauty myself. She's written a part of the book in America and shown the clear contrast between the two countries. We hear of the USA so often - it was refreshing to have a plot situated in north Italy.

The main reason I wanted to read this was because I've already read fallen in love with Stirling's previous writing. Yet, she continues to come up with fresh ideas that impress me. Despite this though, the cover would be enough to attract my attention. It's so... mysterious. Is that the right word for it? I don't think it does it justice, but it's the closest I can get right now. I think Oxford University Press and Joss Stirling have done a wonderful job in making sure the cover is captivating. 

Overall, Seeking Crystal is unique read. Although at times it did become a little predictable, the style in which it was written keeps the reader's interest.  It's a book full of  devastatingly gorgeous guys, hardcore plans, a creepy, evil villain, and an enjoyable, sweet romance. If you're someone who enjoys a light read, full of all the themes needed to make an excellent teen read, this one's for you. Go buy Seeking Crystal - you don't even need to read the first two to fully understand the book, though I do recommend you read them. It's a book I know you won't regret reading if it seems like your type. Seriously.

5/5 Stars - This book was the only thing on my bookish thoughts for weeks. 

Teaser Quote: 

"I would have normally tried to ignore the display of tanned arms and glimpse of toned midriff this flailing about revealed, but, hey, I have hormones like the next girl. Some things in life are worth seeing." 

Amazon | Goodreads | Author's Website 

Waiting on Wednesday - Boundless by Cynthia Hand

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine.

This week, I'm waiting for:

Boundless by Cynthia Hand

Publication Date: January 22nd 2013

                                                                                                                                                                                             

The past few years have held more surprises than part-angel Clara Gardner could ever have anticipated. Yet from the dizzying highs of first love, to the agonizing low of losing someone close to her, the one thing she can no longer deny is that she was never meant to live a normal life.

Since discovering the special role she plays among the other angel-bloods, Clara has been determined to protect Tucker Avery from the evil that follows her . . . even if it means breaking both their hearts. Leaving town seems like the best option, so she’s headed back to California - and so is Christian Prescott, the irresistible boy from the vision that started her on this journey in the first place.

As Clara makes her way in a world that is frighteningly new, she discovers that the fallen angel who attacked her is watching her every move. And he’s not the only one. . . . With the battle against the Black Wings looming, Clara knows she must finally fulfil her destiny. But it won’t come without sacrifices and betrayal.

In the riveting finale of the Unearthly series, Clara must decide her fate once and for all.

*****

I just love the cover! I think all of the US cover's of the Unearthly series have been really pretty. Most of all, I can't wait to read it! I really hope she ends up with Tucker; it's the last of the series. 

What do you think of the cover? Be sure to post a comment.

Bloodlines #4 Title Reveal

Big news:
Richelle Mead (author of the Vampire Academy and Bloodlines series) recently posted a new blog post on her blog... which revealed the title of the fourth book in the Bloodlines series!!

I absolutely love the Bloodlines books. So you have no idea how excited I was by this small amount of news. To others, it's small. But if you're someone like me, who gets hyper very easily, over the smallest of stuff - it's pretty huge. 

You can read the full blog here, but you can read on for an extract...

Bloodlines #4 is called The Fiery Heart.

This'll make a lot more sense when you read Indigo, which I'm starting to get super impatient for. Come on, February! Lots of big things happen in Indigo, and you romance fans are going to pass out. You know what also might make you pass out? This:

The Fiery Heart is going to be told from both Sydney and Adrian's points of view. That's right. If you've ever wanted to get inside the crazy world of Adrian Ivashkov's head, this is it. It'll still be in first person, but the POV will alternate chapters. I'm so excited about this, it's not even funny. Well, actually...since it's Adrian, it'll be hilarious. I think you guys'll love it, and for those who still haven't made the transition to the Bloodlines series, now's your chance! #1 and #2 are out, and it's not too late to catch up before February.

... :D

I'm already getting excited.

I don't normally like it when authors have their book in two perspectives - but this is Adrian. Why wouldn't I love it? The Fiery Heart! I can't wait. Seriously - and I haven't even read The Indigo Spell yet. 

So, what do you think? I'd love to hear your opinion, so feel free to leave a comment.

Top Ten Tuesday

Top Ten Books I'd Want On A Deserted Island

My first ever book meme! I decided to go with Top Ten Tuesday as it's one of my favorites.

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme created at The Broke and the Bookish. 

In no particular order...

1. The Host by Stephanie Meyer

No - it's not what you think. I'm not a Twilight fan. I've read the books and liked them, so decided to give The Host a go. And I loved it. I'm not a fan of sci-fi romance, but I had to re-think that after finishing the book. It was such an original idea, with characters I couldn't help but fall in love with. The cover is just amazing and the books are quite lengthy, so I's be entertained while on some island.

2. Stealing Phoenix by Joss Stirling

I love, love, LOVE this book! I'm emotionally attached to the whole series, but this is a book that I've loved the most. If I was stranded on an island, I'd need this book to be with me. Wouldn't let it out of my sight.

3. The Golden Lily by Richelle Mead.

I'm a huge Sydrian fan - who doesn't like Adrian? Plus, I'd love to be as clever as Sydney one day. Currently eagerly awaiting The Indigo Spell.

4. Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

Unearthly!!! It's one of the best books ever! Well, one of the best books from the YA genre. I definitely have a fictional crush on Tucker. I'd need him to keep me company during the long days on the island.

5.  The Mediator by Meg Cabot

Not many people know this book. It's an amazing, yet underrated, series. Only downside I can find it that it's really short, like 200 pages. It's the first book I properly read and loved... I think I was about 10 at the time.

6. The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown

I know, I know. Most of you are properly thinking what that is doing on my list. While I haven't read this book myself, I've heard great things - apparently it's one of those books that make you think, and I know it's not the books I normally go for, I'm willing to broaden my horizons. Considering the fact that I'd be pretty bored on an island, reading this for the first time should take up quite a few hours.

7. I've Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella

Everybody loves a bit of Sophie Kinsella every now and then. I know I do. If you haven't read a book by her before, I deeply recommend it. Although it's an adult book, there aren't any graphic sex scenes or anything along those lines. If I was stuck on an island, I'd be pretty depressed; this book may be the only thing able to cheer me up.

8. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K Rowling
I'm a pretty big Potterhead, so of course Harry Potter has to be on the list.

9. Night World Volume 3 by L.J Smith
NIGHT WORLD! Not going anywhere without this. My favourite series by my favourite author.

10. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
If I'm going to be stranded for an island, for god-knows-how-long, I might as well read something with a few  tips and tricks on how to survive out in the wilderness. I'll probably just end up pretending that I'm Katniss.

So that's it for now. What do you think? Any you strongly agree or disagree with? Feel free to leave a comment - it will be much appreciated. :)

My Book Thoughts

OK. So books basically take up most of my everyday thoughts - the key to knowing more about me is knowing more about the way I think. Although my brain is a random jumble of colourful thoughts, it's not quite hard to locate the book category.

- I'd love to have a floor-to-ceiling bookshelf.

The example above is just a taster. You know that massive room in Beauty and the Beast, the one with a floor-to-ceiling bookshelf across every wall? Yeah, I want that.

- A secret book room.

I've always been extremely jealous whenever someone in a detective movie or something stands on a bookshelf... and it spins them round to some awesome, huge, hidden book room. It's the perfect hiding place to get lost in a book. Like you're own personal library.

- Have a no-budget book-shopping spree.

If I ever did have this, I'd go crazy. Probably buy all of the book in the YA genre. I doubt it'll ever happen, though. Sigh.

- Write my own book.

Someday, I'd love to have my name in book stores around the world. Someday.

And here is one of my favourite quotes of all-time:

"Hey. I wanna write a blog."

Hello.

This is my first blog... like... ever...

I hope it's the first of many.

OK, so a few days ago I was just randomly thinking about random stuff, (as I do) when I suddenly had a burst of inspiration:

 I thought: "Hey. I wanna write a blog." You see, I love reading blogs myself  - I'm just naturally nosy. Anyway, never in my life have I actually tried to sit down and write a diary. My handwriting's just too messy for that. And I just don't have the patience. However, I do love writing. Thus, I came to the conclusion that I WAS going to start a blog.

But, like everything in my life, I was still faced with a dilemma... what am I going to write about? I know, it's a blog and everything, but I love reading book blogs - they're the ones I'm obsessed with. Also, my life is too boring and normal to be found entertaining by readers like yourself.

Sooo... I'm going to write a book blog! :D

I'll be posting reviews and participating with memes and everything.

I'm very excited.

So, now I've reached the end of my first ever blog.
I didn't know if I should keep it long or short, so apologies if it seems a bit dodgy.

"Drench yourself with words unspoken, live your life with arms wide open. Today is where your book begins - the rest is still unwritten." - Unwritten, Natasha Bedingfield