-Nora Sakavic
"Neil Josten let his cigarette burn to the filter without taking a drag. He didn't want the nicotine; he wanted the acrid smoke that reminded him of his mother." Taken from the book.
I'm going to be honest and admit that I didn't have high hopes for this book. I heard whispers of it on tumblr, and paid no mind to them. However, the more I saw of Neil and Andrew on my dashboard, the more curious I became, so I looked the book up on my kindle.
The good news? The first one was free, and the second two of the series were under one dollar. The better news? The entire series can now be bought in their physical form as well, (also very reasonably priced).
The book wasn't what I expected, it was so much more. Reading The Foxhole Court was quite the rollercoaster ride. I cheered in excitement, shouted in frustration and even cried for the pain of those in the story. The emotional turmoil that I faced while reading was completely worth it, though. Hardly ever am I willing to lose sleep over anything, and yet I found myself staying awake until the earliest hours of the morning just to figure out what happens next.
Although Neil was the protagonist of this story, he wasn't always the hero which I thought to be humbling. He was a small kid with an attitude problem, who was better at starting fights than finishing them, and I suppose that is something that a lot of readers might be able to relate to, I know that I have.
Neil's story is worth figuring out, but what I enjoyed most was that the other characters weren't simply written off as supporting characters, they weren't placed in the world of TFC just to further Neil's plot (with the exception of Seth imo), they had equally as interesting backstories of their own. More importantly to me, however, was Sakavic's portrayal of her female characters, they weren't type-casted as "one of the boys", nor could they be considered to have been meek or mild, they were whole characters with depth to them. Sakavic's story was such a good one because her characters were human. Don't just take my word for it, read the book yourself, grab a blanket, make some tea, and keep warm & read.
Monday, 25 April 2016
Saturday, 9 April 2016
Eleanor & Park
-Rainbow Rowell.
"But there was no one like Park at her old school. There was no one like Park anywhere..." "Park tried to remember the first time he saw her.... Now, he felt the fight rising up in his throat whenever he thought of people making fun of her." - Taken from the book.
First, let me begin by saying that I really wanted to like this book. I had a friend recommend it to me a few years ago when it was still a fresh and exciting read and, I was more than happy to figure out why someone would think I'd enjoy it, and as soon as I had my funds in order, I cashed out.
Like I said, I really wanted to like this book, but the truth is, I didn't. Was it a nice a book? Yeah, sure it was okay. However, I wouldn't go as far as to call it a good book. Maybe I'll try to read it again in the summer when life is easier and the magic in the air is more tranquil, but right now according to Kobo eBooks I'm only 26% through the book, and I've been reading it since November. If I'm being completely honest, I think the author's stereotypical way of describing/expressing her non-white characters was what really did me in. The other let downs in her novel were simply that, let downs. I was expecting a lot from this book, especially with the way that everyone has fallen in love with it and personally, I feel like it didn't exactly deliver.
That being said, there was a lot about the book that I have enjoyed. I like that even though life has essentially buried Eleanor 6ft under a pile of crap she doesn't let that stop her from being who she is. I mean, sure she's uncertain of herself, and the bullying (both inside and outside of school) is bound to take its toll on her eventually, but at the moment she's powering through. I can more than respect that. I also enjoyed that Park admitted (even if just to himself) that his snap judgements of Elanor were wrong and rude. I can respect the little ways that he stands up to his dad. After all, everyone loves an underdog, right? I just didn't find the book particularly enjoyable, but if you're seriously looking into this as a future read, don't let me discourage you from giving this a try, form your own opinions and tell me what you think. Grab a blanket, make some tea, and keep warm and read.
"But there was no one like Park at her old school. There was no one like Park anywhere..." "Park tried to remember the first time he saw her.... Now, he felt the fight rising up in his throat whenever he thought of people making fun of her." - Taken from the book.
First, let me begin by saying that I really wanted to like this book. I had a friend recommend it to me a few years ago when it was still a fresh and exciting read and, I was more than happy to figure out why someone would think I'd enjoy it, and as soon as I had my funds in order, I cashed out.
Like I said, I really wanted to like this book, but the truth is, I didn't. Was it a nice a book? Yeah, sure it was okay. However, I wouldn't go as far as to call it a good book. Maybe I'll try to read it again in the summer when life is easier and the magic in the air is more tranquil, but right now according to Kobo eBooks I'm only 26% through the book, and I've been reading it since November. If I'm being completely honest, I think the author's stereotypical way of describing/expressing her non-white characters was what really did me in. The other let downs in her novel were simply that, let downs. I was expecting a lot from this book, especially with the way that everyone has fallen in love with it and personally, I feel like it didn't exactly deliver.
That being said, there was a lot about the book that I have enjoyed. I like that even though life has essentially buried Eleanor 6ft under a pile of crap she doesn't let that stop her from being who she is. I mean, sure she's uncertain of herself, and the bullying (both inside and outside of school) is bound to take its toll on her eventually, but at the moment she's powering through. I can more than respect that. I also enjoyed that Park admitted (even if just to himself) that his snap judgements of Elanor were wrong and rude. I can respect the little ways that he stands up to his dad. After all, everyone loves an underdog, right? I just didn't find the book particularly enjoyable, but if you're seriously looking into this as a future read, don't let me discourage you from giving this a try, form your own opinions and tell me what you think. Grab a blanket, make some tea, and keep warm and read.
Friday, 25 March 2016
Kissing Kate.
- Lauren Myracle.
"Kate and Lisa were best friends. Then one night last summer at a drunken party, Kate leaned in to kiss Lissa, and Lissa kissed her back. Now Kate is pretending Lissa doesn't exist. Confused and alone, Lissa's left questioning everything she thought she knew about herself, and about life. But with the help of a new friend, Lissa is beginning to realize that sometimes falling in love with the wrong person is the only way to find your footing." - Taken from the back of the book.
I first read this book when I was in my early teens and dealing with my own sexuality. I'd like to think that I'm not the only person who has found or will find out more about themselves and self-acceptance throughout this read.
Kissing Kate is an LGBT read done right, it's a story that sadly, a lot of kids would find themselves being able to relate to. It reminds those who are questioning their sexualities that it is perfectly normal, and I've learned that that's exactly what some people need.
This book was more than just your typical coming of age story, though, it had just as much laughs as tears and has something in it for everybody to enjoy. Don't just take my word for it, though, pick up the book yourself, form your own opinions, grab a blanket, make some tea, and remember to keep warm and read.
[Please remember that from now until mid-April reviews will be posted twice a month instead of once per week.]
"Kate and Lisa were best friends. Then one night last summer at a drunken party, Kate leaned in to kiss Lissa, and Lissa kissed her back. Now Kate is pretending Lissa doesn't exist. Confused and alone, Lissa's left questioning everything she thought she knew about herself, and about life. But with the help of a new friend, Lissa is beginning to realize that sometimes falling in love with the wrong person is the only way to find your footing." - Taken from the back of the book.
I first read this book when I was in my early teens and dealing with my own sexuality. I'd like to think that I'm not the only person who has found or will find out more about themselves and self-acceptance throughout this read.
Kissing Kate is an LGBT read done right, it's a story that sadly, a lot of kids would find themselves being able to relate to. It reminds those who are questioning their sexualities that it is perfectly normal, and I've learned that that's exactly what some people need.
This book was more than just your typical coming of age story, though, it had just as much laughs as tears and has something in it for everybody to enjoy. Don't just take my word for it, though, pick up the book yourself, form your own opinions, grab a blanket, make some tea, and remember to keep warm and read.
[Please remember that from now until mid-April reviews will be posted twice a month instead of once per week.]
Monday, 7 March 2016
The Devouring.
- Simon Holt
"When dark creeps in and eats the light,
Bury your fears on Sorry Night.
For in the winter's blackest hours,
Comes the feasting of the Vours,
No one can see it, the life they stole,
Your body is here, but not your soul..." - Taken from the back of the book.
Those of you who follow the kwr tumblr know that The Devouring is one of my favourite YA/Horror books. This book is one of the (very few) books that have caused me to stay up later than I should, wondering if I am safe or not. The Devouring is my freezer book, you know that book that initially freaked you out so badly that you had to take advice from Joey Tribbiani and just shove it in the freezer? Yeah, this book was it for me, and I can honestly say that there is only one other book that has made me feel that way since.
Reggie Halloway is the MC of this read, equipped with a spunky sidekick, Simon and a (sometimes) adorable little brother that goes by the name of Henry. Reggie Halloway is a girl that wasn't afraid to cry, or face her fears or be a little vain at times.Reggie Halloway is the girl that gets tongue tied around her crush and scared when her dad yells too loud. She's the girl that misses her mum, but the best part is, the author made sure that his readers knew that that wasn't all she was. She was badass, and a little reckless, and most importantly she wasn't fearless.
The awesome scare factors put aside, as a young girl growing up in the 'vampire love interest'/ 'older guys are so cool' era, The Devouring was a nice break from it all. I love that the cover drew me in first. I love that it was creepy in all the right ways for all the right reasons. I love that I'm able to enjoy it just as much at age twenty as I was at age fifteen.
This a book that I wholeheartedly endorse, but maybe my views are a little bias so please make sure to pick up the book yourself, form your own opinions and let me know if you agree (or not), grab a blanket and some tea, and keep warm &read.
*This book is book one of a three-part series, The Devouring, Soulstice, and Fearscape.
[Please remember that from now until mid-April reviews will be posted twice a month instead of once per week.]
"When dark creeps in and eats the light,
Bury your fears on Sorry Night.
For in the winter's blackest hours,
Comes the feasting of the Vours,
No one can see it, the life they stole,
Your body is here, but not your soul..." - Taken from the back of the book.
Those of you who follow the kwr tumblr know that The Devouring is one of my favourite YA/Horror books. This book is one of the (very few) books that have caused me to stay up later than I should, wondering if I am safe or not. The Devouring is my freezer book, you know that book that initially freaked you out so badly that you had to take advice from Joey Tribbiani and just shove it in the freezer? Yeah, this book was it for me, and I can honestly say that there is only one other book that has made me feel that way since.
Reggie Halloway is the MC of this read, equipped with a spunky sidekick, Simon and a (sometimes) adorable little brother that goes by the name of Henry. Reggie Halloway is a girl that wasn't afraid to cry, or face her fears or be a little vain at times.Reggie Halloway is the girl that gets tongue tied around her crush and scared when her dad yells too loud. She's the girl that misses her mum, but the best part is, the author made sure that his readers knew that that wasn't all she was. She was badass, and a little reckless, and most importantly she wasn't fearless.
The awesome scare factors put aside, as a young girl growing up in the 'vampire love interest'/ 'older guys are so cool' era, The Devouring was a nice break from it all. I love that the cover drew me in first. I love that it was creepy in all the right ways for all the right reasons. I love that I'm able to enjoy it just as much at age twenty as I was at age fifteen.
This a book that I wholeheartedly endorse, but maybe my views are a little bias so please make sure to pick up the book yourself, form your own opinions and let me know if you agree (or not), grab a blanket and some tea, and keep warm &read.
*This book is book one of a three-part series, The Devouring, Soulstice, and Fearscape.
[Please remember that from now until mid-April reviews will be posted twice a month instead of once per week.]
Friday, 26 February 2016
Longbourn
- Jo Baker
"Mr. B. would lend you a book, but he didn't want to hear what you thought about it. He'd say thank you for any service you performed, but he wouldn't even catch your eye. How could she have so much to say to him, and why--and this was the truly baffling thing--was he just letting her go on saying it?" - Taken from the book.
First things first, let's jump right into the review. Admittedly, I had my doubts about this one, not because it's Pride and Prejudice fanfiction, but because it was a required reading for a class that I don't particularly care for. However, upon actually reading the book, I was pleasantly surprised.
Now, be warned that this book does have a slow start and at some points in the novel I did find my mind wandering to more exciting thoughts, however, that doesn't necessarily make it a bad book.
Longbourn is fanfiction, but it isn't told from the perspective of a suspected source, instead, it's a story told from the shadows (more or less), it's a story, told from the view of a young maid by the name of Sarah. Sarah works for the Bennets along with Mr. and Mrs. Hill, Polly (formally known as Mary), and the newest addition to their makeshift family, James.
The readers follow Sarah throughout her days while she acts out her household duties and attempts her best to remained a background character whilst still furthering her own story.
So, was this book boring at parts? Most definitely, anyone in their right mind would find monotonous chores to be boring. But the real question is, is this book worth reading? And the answer to that is a simple one, absolutely. If you enjoyed P&P, there's no reason why you wouldn't enjoy Longbourn just as much (or even more).
Anyways, don't let my words sway you too much. Read the book yourself, form your own opinions and remember to keep warm & read.
[Please remember that from now until mid-April reviews will be posted twice a month instead of once a week.]
"Mr. B. would lend you a book, but he didn't want to hear what you thought about it. He'd say thank you for any service you performed, but he wouldn't even catch your eye. How could she have so much to say to him, and why--and this was the truly baffling thing--was he just letting her go on saying it?" - Taken from the book.
First things first, let's jump right into the review. Admittedly, I had my doubts about this one, not because it's Pride and Prejudice fanfiction, but because it was a required reading for a class that I don't particularly care for. However, upon actually reading the book, I was pleasantly surprised.
Now, be warned that this book does have a slow start and at some points in the novel I did find my mind wandering to more exciting thoughts, however, that doesn't necessarily make it a bad book.
Longbourn is fanfiction, but it isn't told from the perspective of a suspected source, instead, it's a story told from the shadows (more or less), it's a story, told from the view of a young maid by the name of Sarah. Sarah works for the Bennets along with Mr. and Mrs. Hill, Polly (formally known as Mary), and the newest addition to their makeshift family, James.
The readers follow Sarah throughout her days while she acts out her household duties and attempts her best to remained a background character whilst still furthering her own story.
So, was this book boring at parts? Most definitely, anyone in their right mind would find monotonous chores to be boring. But the real question is, is this book worth reading? And the answer to that is a simple one, absolutely. If you enjoyed P&P, there's no reason why you wouldn't enjoy Longbourn just as much (or even more).
Anyways, don't let my words sway you too much. Read the book yourself, form your own opinions and remember to keep warm & read.
[Please remember that from now until mid-April reviews will be posted twice a month instead of once a week.]
Saturday, 13 February 2016
The Replacement
- Brenna Yovanoff
"Mackie is not one of us... He is a Replacement... Now, he's dying... drawn into the underworld of Gentry, known as Mayhem. He must face the dark creatures of the slag heaps and find his rightful place..." - Taken from the back of the book.
I first read this book a few years ago when I was still in high school, I enjoyed it so much that I made one of my friends read it as soon as I was finished (and was heartbroken when it was returned in less than stellar condition).
Have I re-read this book since high school? Sadly, I have not, though I have every intention to once my exams are over. However, I have read enough of it over the past few weeks amongst my other readings to refresh my memory, and I am sad to have to put it down for more "important" readings.
This book provides the readers with a fresh outlook on the world of fae and brings to mind Holy Black's more popular story, Tithe with hints of The Labyrinth, asking the age-old question of, "nature vs nurture?"
My one complaint about the story itself is that I picked it up expecting to be scared or at the very least anxious throughout the course of Mackie's journey as promised by back-of-book-reviews (I really should've known better), and was sadly disappointed by that, however, once I began reading I forgot my expectations, and simply sat back and enjoyed the ride.
If you're interested in the book I ask that you give it a read and tell me your thoughts/opinions on the peace, and if you're interested in other books by Yovanoff I recommend, The Space Between about the world between earth and hell and a young girl's attempt to go against all that she knows in order to save an innocent, and while you're at it, make some tea, grab a blanket and keep warm & read.
"Mackie is not one of us... He is a Replacement... Now, he's dying... drawn into the underworld of Gentry, known as Mayhem. He must face the dark creatures of the slag heaps and find his rightful place..." - Taken from the back of the book.
I first read this book a few years ago when I was still in high school, I enjoyed it so much that I made one of my friends read it as soon as I was finished (and was heartbroken when it was returned in less than stellar condition).
Have I re-read this book since high school? Sadly, I have not, though I have every intention to once my exams are over. However, I have read enough of it over the past few weeks amongst my other readings to refresh my memory, and I am sad to have to put it down for more "important" readings.
This book provides the readers with a fresh outlook on the world of fae and brings to mind Holy Black's more popular story, Tithe with hints of The Labyrinth, asking the age-old question of, "nature vs nurture?"
My one complaint about the story itself is that I picked it up expecting to be scared or at the very least anxious throughout the course of Mackie's journey as promised by back-of-book-reviews (I really should've known better), and was sadly disappointed by that, however, once I began reading I forgot my expectations, and simply sat back and enjoyed the ride.
If you're interested in the book I ask that you give it a read and tell me your thoughts/opinions on the peace, and if you're interested in other books by Yovanoff I recommend, The Space Between about the world between earth and hell and a young girl's attempt to go against all that she knows in order to save an innocent, and while you're at it, make some tea, grab a blanket and keep warm & read.
Sunday, 31 January 2016
Please Remain Calm
- Courtney Summers
"Not everything we lost, but good, because it would be so close. So close. We were so close.
But it would never be close enough.
What am I supposed to do, knowing that?" - Taken from the book.
PRC was everything I could hope for in a sequel, it was 58 pages worth of angst and anger and even a few 'aw' worthy moments were thrown in there to mix it up a bit.
This story was told through the eyes of the male protagonist, Rhys, and I gotta say that I really enjoyed the change. It gave the story a fresher outlook and allowed the readers to experience this world through the eyes of someone who has fought so hard to stay alive, not out of obligation or necessity, but simply because to them, giving up wasn't an option. Even when all odds were against him and he was plagued with the heavy burdens of all those left behind, Rhys was still able to hold on to an ounce of hope, and it was that desperate need for survival, that ever present desire to be reacquainted with his last and lost companion, Salone, that had me shouting at my tablet and praying along with him (though admittedly not in Spanish).
Everyone knows that no one really survives a zombie apocalypse, in some way or another, things start to get to you, and you run out of fight. No, there are no survivors in a zombie apocalypse, not really, and there aren't many heroes either, but maybe that's not the point. Maybe the point is to keep on keeping on even when your only option is to jump into frigid rough waters or be turned into things that not even nightmares are made of. Read the book yourself, form your own opinions, tell me what you think, and remember, make some tea, grab a blanket, and keep warm and read.
"Not everything we lost, but good, because it would be so close. So close. We were so close.
But it would never be close enough.
What am I supposed to do, knowing that?" - Taken from the book.
PRC was everything I could hope for in a sequel, it was 58 pages worth of angst and anger and even a few 'aw' worthy moments were thrown in there to mix it up a bit.
This story was told through the eyes of the male protagonist, Rhys, and I gotta say that I really enjoyed the change. It gave the story a fresher outlook and allowed the readers to experience this world through the eyes of someone who has fought so hard to stay alive, not out of obligation or necessity, but simply because to them, giving up wasn't an option. Even when all odds were against him and he was plagued with the heavy burdens of all those left behind, Rhys was still able to hold on to an ounce of hope, and it was that desperate need for survival, that ever present desire to be reacquainted with his last and lost companion, Salone, that had me shouting at my tablet and praying along with him (though admittedly not in Spanish).
Everyone knows that no one really survives a zombie apocalypse, in some way or another, things start to get to you, and you run out of fight. No, there are no survivors in a zombie apocalypse, not really, and there aren't many heroes either, but maybe that's not the point. Maybe the point is to keep on keeping on even when your only option is to jump into frigid rough waters or be turned into things that not even nightmares are made of. Read the book yourself, form your own opinions, tell me what you think, and remember, make some tea, grab a blanket, and keep warm and read.
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