Book Review: How to Love (Katie Cotugno)

This is a love story. But it’s not what you think. This is not a first kiss, or a first date. This is not love at first sight. This is a boy and a girl falling in messy, unpredictable, thrilling love. This is the complicated route to happiness that follows.

This is real. This is life. This is how to love.

BEFORE:

Reena has loved Sawyer LeGrande for as long as she can remember. But he’s never noticed her, until one day… he does. They fall in messy, complicated love. But then Sawyer disappears from their humid Florida town, leaving a devastated – and pregnant – Reena behind.

AFTER:

Three years later and there’s a new love in Reena’s life: her daughter Hannah. But just as swiftly and suddenly as he disappeared, Sawyer turns up again.

After everything that’s happened, can Reena really let herself love Sawyer again?

I haven't read an emotional book for quite a while until this one and How to Love had me tearing up quite a few times. The teen drama/ relationship problems are not usually the type I go for, but this one definitely blew me away. The love story is not the 'normal' kind where boy-meets-girl-and fall in love story, but one that focuses on their lives after their paths collided.

what I liked was how the chapters alternated between the past an the present which helped understand Reena and Sawyer's relationship better. It was well thought of and written as the story line remained smooth throughout the book. It kept making me want to know more, that's for sure.

My heart kept twisting and wrenching for Reena. I felt sorry for her and the troubles she had to go through as a teen mum, but what I liked about her was her incredibly strong character and personality. Reena was more than capable and persevered through her hard times - especially with Sawyer gone. I liked Reena, but sometimes I didn't get her at all and her character is quite unpredictable. She obviously still loved Sawyer, but pretends as though she does not, yet it is so obvious by the way she becomes weak whenever he is around.

My first impression of Sawyer was that he was kind of a jerk. Yet, that did not hold out long. I soon found him quite sweet to Reena. Incredibly sincere. As the story alternated between the past and present, you will definitely notice the change in Sawyer.

How to Love is an incredibly book that I found so hard to put down. At times, I became overwhelmed with emotion I just have to stop. It's an amazing love story and  I didn't want this book to end at all.

Five Stars

Book Review: Allies & Assassins (Justin Somper)

They killed his brother. Now they're coming for him. . .

As the second prince of Archenfield, Jared never expected to rule. But behind the walls of the castle is a dark and dangerous court where murder and intrigue are never far below the surface. 

Now his older brother is dead. The kingdom is his. And the target is on his back. Can he find the assassin before the assassin finds him?

This book has it all. I love love LOVE it! Justin Somper has come up with another beautifully written book packed with mystery and thrill to drive anyone crazy. Even the cover drew me in - it captivated me and continued to do so with the plot as I read through the book. Allies & Assassins had a gripping and intriguing plot that really kept me guessing all the way.

It follows the life of Jared, Prince of All Archenfield, as he tries to cope with the assassination of his brother and as he hunts down the person responsible. I liked Jared. He seemed like an innocent teenager suddenly brought into the all-adult world of politics and feud unprepared. Nonetheless, Jared has kept a strong personality as he tries to find his own self and his brother's assassin, although admittedly at times I found him to be easily manipulated. 

Asta is one of  the characters I adored. She was an incredibly strong woman and knew what she wanted; And exactly how to get it. She was an intuitive and a humble character who I looked forward to reading more about - she's always off either investigating or doing something reckless!

The dark secrets of ex-Prince Anders involving his love life played a major role in this book, something which I never actually thought would come up. I was ready for a thriller, the romance was a nice surprise! 

In Allies and Assassins, Justin Somper has created a world full of mystery, adventure, thrill, politics, family feud and romance! It has an intricate and unbelievably well-crafted plot that kept me at the edge of my seat. The mystery was especially too much for me to handle and had me pulling at my hair as my suspect list kept growing and changing all the time.

Allies & Assasins had all the components of a good book and had me in the first few pages with its twist and turns. I really don't have much to say except that this is a wonderful book. It's definitely a must read for all those mystery and adventure lovers out there!

Five Stars!

*A massive thank you to Atom Books for letting me have my hands on this fantastic book!

Book Review: Evercrossed (Elizabeth Chandler)

Ivy and Tristan have both moved on ~ Tristan, to the other side of the afterlife, and Ivy has moved on with sweet, dependable Will. But when an accident seriously injures Ivy, almost to the point of near death, she meets her soulmate Tristan again. And at the place of the "in between", their bittersweet reunion culminates in one breathtaking kiss. But unbeknownst to both Ivy and Tristan, it was that one heart stopping kiss that brought Ivy back to life ~ and angels are prohibited from meddling in matters of life and death. Now fallen from heaven for saving the girl he loves, Tristan is in the body of a stranger, and he must find his way to Ivy once.

I totally adore this book! It may be short, but I enjoyed it an awful lot. Evercrossed is thrilling and romantic. The storyline is really good and it is just as amazing as the previous book, Kissed by an Angel. I was emotional when reading this book, just like when I was reading the previous book. I think the author really does a great job in making people feel strong emotions in her books. They are just superb!

The story is narrated in Ivy Lyons' point of view. Ivy is sometimes very stubborn, but deep inside, she is kind and forgiving. Will, Ivy's boyfriend, is quite protective towards her, since Ivy is also sometimes careless. Will was Ivy's best friend and so was Beth. Beth is also protective over Ivy. Beth and Will have always looked out for her. I like Beth because she cares about Ivy a lot and always watches out for her. In Kissed by an Angel, I liked Will, but I after reading Evercrossed, I don't think love him as much as before. He's change! But here is something that is very interesting in the book : the "stranger" which the soul of Tristan goes into is not who I expected, I thought of him with a different personality, but he turns out to be someone with a different personality and background! You guys just have to wait and find out!

The storyline was great. I totally get the plot and it was thrilling. The ending was a shock to me though. I was not expecting it, it just left me there hanging. I hope there is a next book! I just cannot wait! I love Kissed by an Angel and Evercrossed. I would definitely rate it....

Five Stars!

*Thank you to S&S for my review copy.

Book Review: My Soul to Save (Rachel Vincent)

When Kaylee Cavanaugh screams, someone dies.

So when teen pop star Eden croaks onstage and Kaylee doesn't wail, she knows something is dead wrong. She can't cry for someone who has no soul.

The last thing Kaylee needs right now is to be skipping school, breaking her dad's ironclad curfew and putting her too-hot-to-be-real boyfriend's loyalty to the test. But starry-eyed teens are trading their souls: a flickering lifetime of fame and fortune in exchange for eternity in the Netherworld—a consequence they can't possibly understand.

Kaylee can't let that happen, even if trying to save their souls means putting her own at risk…..

I am once again ensnared by Rachel Vincent's The Soul Screamers Series. There is just that extra oomph in this series that puts it above the many others I've read- I'm not going to deny how addicted I am to it. And in more ways than one, Kaylee Cavanaugh is my heroine of choice!

I was fascinated by the world of the bean sidhe in My Soul to Take and in its sequel Rachel Vincent does not let up in unleashing more of the horrors of the netherworld. Fortunately, I was fascinated by these too. I find it enchanting really, and Kaylee is a strong narrator who both satisfied and stirred my curiosity. I was continually surprised and horrified along with her; she's such a genuine character, one I consider as a reflection of myself in fiction. I think one of the characteristics that truly define her is what she gives the readers - the ability to see themselves in her.

Not only do we learn more about the netherworld, we also see Kaylee beginning to realise the extent and limitation of her bean sidhe abilities. Having just recently discovered her heritage, she is still set to explore it; but as always, danger is connected to exploration and she is not exempt. Thus, Kaylee takes us into action-filled adventures in both realms, dodging both raging hellions and condescending human adults alike. Spurred by her moral compass, Kaylee once again dives heads first into danger, but who wouldn't in her place? Rachel has truly and effectively conveyed her character's motives and intent behind their actions in My Soul to Save.

Apart from the fascinating mythology, the action-adventure that makes you fly through the pages, we also see more romance. But not only of Nash and Kaylee, but of the reaper's also. Tod - despite his tendency to always appear aloof - shows his one weakness in this book, and I'm sure I'm not the only reader whose heart went out to him. Although Tod messes up a a little at the end, one can understand why. Despite his ungentlemanly actions, I think the jury's still out on Tod's behaviour; for the romantics at heart like me however, he did what did for love, and that says a hell of a lot of things. I admired his assertiveness, no matter how disillusioned he ended up

Rachel's mythology, plus her fantastic set of characters has fully cemented Soul Screamers on my favourite YA series list!

Five Stars!


* Thanks to Mira Ink for my beautiful review copy. I <3 it!

Book Review: Low Red Moon (Ivy Devlin)

The only thing Avery Hood can remember about the night her parents died is that she saw silver—deadly silver, moving inhumanly fast. As much as she wants to remember who killed them, she can't, and there's nothing left to do but try to piece her life back together. 

Then Avery meets the new boy in school—Ben, mysterious and beautiful, with whom she feels a connection like nothing she's ever experienced. When Ben reveals he's a werewolf, Avery still trusts him—at first. Then she sees that sometimes his eyes flash inhuman silver. And she learns that she's not the only one who can't remember the night her parents died.

Part murder mystery, part grief narrative, and part heart-stopping, headlong romance, Low Red Moon is a must-read for teen paranormal fans. As breathless as Twilight and as spooky as Shiver, this is a book to be devoured in one sitting—by an acclaimed YA author making her paranormal debut under the pseudonym Ivy Devlin.

This book is so, so marvelous! It's mysterious, grue-some, heartbreaking and romantic at the same time. It has a very believable heroine, a sexy hero and a murder-mystery that had me on the edge of my seat!

Avery is - like I said - a very believable heroine. Although significantly ostracised from both her high school and her community, she feels like a girl-next-door who one could easily get to know. Her interactions with people are somewhat limited by her home-schooled background, but to those who she does befriend, she is both giving and understanding. She has a generous heart and I adore her for it. Sheltered by them all her life, Avery doesn't only feel lost in the death of her parents but feels like she's trapped in a sort of limbo, tormented by her lapsing memories.

Avery narrates the book with a voice with genuine grief. The melancholy but collected narration is honest and lyrical. Every word is captivating, every thought filled with emotions.
My heart ached for Avery at many points in the book, but never did the narration make me feel like putting the book down. On the contrary, I read it in record time! I have none but praise for Avery and her lyrical prose.

I also love how the narration matches the gruesomeness of some part of the book while being flexible enough to equal the majesty of its romance. Ben and Avery share a deep, instant connection. Uncontrollable and life-changing, both are each other's salvation. There is a lot of discovery surrounding Ben Dusic, but it's left wide open for the sequel (I am wishing for more) to build on. The romance is sexy and seductive, and there's more than just one. I am hungry for more from these characters!

Low Red Moon has a good transition in the plot, from murder mystery to direct supernatural. Furthermore, the backdrop of the forest, and how most things happen at night gives a very eerie feel and setting. And whenever Avery and Ben gets together, this shifts to become a romantic atmosphere. A perfect fit for the plot!

Five Stars!

* Thank you to Bloomsbury for my shiny, lovely review copy!

Book Review: Halfway to the Grave (Jeaniene Frost)

Flirting with the grave...

Half-vampire Catherine Crawfield is going after the undead with a vengeance, hoping that one of these deadbeats is her father--the one responsible for ruining her mother's life. Then she's captured by Bones, a vampire bounty hunter, and is forced into an unholy partnership.

In exchange for finding her father, Cat agrees to train with the sexy night stalker until her battle reflexes are as sharp as his fangs. She's amazed she doesn't end up as his dinner--are there actually good vampires? Pretty soon Bones will have her convinced that being half-dead doesn't have to be all bad. But before she can enjoy her new found status as kick-ass demon hunter, Cat and Bones are pursued by a group of killers. Now Cat will have to choose a side . . . and Bones is turning out to be as tempting as any man with a heartbeat.

Oh my word. Cat and Bones! I don't think I have been as crazy about any Ubran Fantasy books as I have been with the Night Huntress Series - I have not been obsessed about any book characters in a while but within a few pages of Halfway to the Grave the fire was immediately brought back to life. To say Cat and Bones are the perfect pair does not seem right at all - they are THE pair!

I am mostly indifferent to modern retellings of the traditional vampire legends, so to the Night Huntress World's version of vampires all I can say is that it is a joy to read and while it can only be so original, it is nevertheless solid, interesting and a heck of a good read. It follows certain conventions including that vampires are sensual and attractive, but what really strikes me most about this book is not its twists on vampire mythology but the richness of its characters, both primary and secondary.

I did not say Cat and Bones are the pair for nothing. They are in fact, one of the best characters I have ever read - singularly and as a pair. Cat is the epitome of strength and determination, and yet maintains a very cynical outlook in life. She is sarcastic, stubborn and very kick-ass. As the book is in her narration, this results in some hilariously apt descriptions, which accounted for a whole lot of fun while following Cat's adventures. Bones, on the other hand is HOT HOT HOT. Oh, and is a devious, cunning vampire. He is outrageous, formidable and at times overwhelming in both his power and sensuality - he really does transcend the pages of the book. One would think a two hundred fifty year old vampire to be full of wisdom - and Bones is - but not so much humour. Bones proves that wrong as this master vampire extraordinaire, whose weakness just so happens to be Cat, is in a class of his own. He's incorrigible at times but as loyal and as romantic as can be. VILF anyone?

Though Cat and Bones' relationship emerges from the worst possible beginnings, it blossoms into something so strong it is undeniable how right they are for each other. Their equally shocking pasts flavours their relationship with flare and humour. They share such an interesting bond - and romance - it all makes me sigh. Together, they are formidable, envy-worthy pair. Hot, explosive and addicted - so much so I still cannot get enough of them! You will love them - it's a guarantee!

They battle against numerous villains continually and consistently, so there are a lot of actions in the book, as well as personality clashes, humour and the occasional tears. It has a brilliant ending too, though it might as well have killed me - it sets the scene just right for readers to demand the sequel right away. Trust me - I did!

Halfway to the Grave is a fantastic book - a truly amazing start to what I expect to be a hugely addictive series. Have I mentioned sexy as hell? I cannot wait to get my hands on the next book!

Five Stars!

Book Review: My Soul to Take (Rachel Vincent)

She doesn't see dead people, but…

She senses when someone near her is about to die. And when that happens, a force beyond her control compels her to scream bloody murder. Literally.

Kaylee just wants to enjoy having caught the attention of the hottest guy in school. But a normal date is hard to come by when Nash seems to know more about her need to scream than she does. And when classmates start dropping dead for no apparent reason, only Kaylee knows who'll be next…

Rachel Vincent should be a name readers should always, always categorise under 'bloody amazing'. Her shifters series is noteworthy in the Urban fantasy genre and her newly published (in the UK, at least) Soul Screamers series is just as fantastic! I love it! It has in its pages the exact reasons why I love YA - and why it is bound to be one of my favourite series!

My Soul to Take hooked me from the very beginning. Despite paranormal YA being very popular in the market today, I am drawn to the book even before it began introducing its paranormal element. Rachel's writing is magnetic - her no nonsense prose is witty, direct and thoroughly enigmatic. The way it delivers exactly what is just right - without taking the wit off the narrative voice - is truly captivating. It is a very comfortable read, smooth in both its prose and pace. Before I knew it, I was half-way thru it!

I don't think I've ever read a book about bean sidhes before. I have come across the notion of course, particularly in highland romances, but I have yet to read one which focuses entirely on it. The Soul Screamers series fits the bill entirely, and I have been completely enthralled by its mythology.  It is incredibly well-imagined, and so easy to drown in! It is not only rich and particularly exciting, it is also a joy to gather and discover more of it with Kaylee as I read along.

Kaylee Cavanaugh is one funny, sassy and witty heroine. At times even confused, as well as horrified by her abilities. She is the perfect complement to Nash's laidback, protective personality. While she is a risk-taker unaware of the consequences, Nash is a guarded and a careful assessor. This pair is - there is no other word for it - sexy. Yes, My Soul to Take is definitely more seductive than many YA books I've read - and I am not complaining!

Apart from the obvious pair, there are also a number of secondary characters that not only surprises you, but ones you know will play an increasingly important role in the succeeding books. One of those is Tod, who has a hugely surprising relationship to one of the characters - I will not ruin the surprise for you, but it has a completely huge twist I never would have guessed! The book has a whole lot of it on hand for the readers - brace yourselves! You're in for a definite treat! The fact that everything is well balanced with some very nerve wracking instances just adds to the general marvelousness of this series.

Fast-paced, engaging, enthralling, magnetic, seductive - My Soul to Take definitely has the best of YA!

Five Stars!


* Review copy courtesy of Mira Ink. Thank you!

Book Review: The Iron Witch (Karen Mahoney) + Giveaway!

Freak. That's what her classmates call seventeen-year-old Donna Underwood. When she was seven, a horrific fey attack killed her father and drove her mother mad. Donna's own nearly fatal injuries from the assault were fixed by magic—the iron tattoos branding her hands and arms. The child of alchemists, Donna feels cursed by the magical heritage that destroyed her parents and any chance she had for a normal life. The only thing that keeps her sane and grounded is her relationship with her best friend, Navin Sharma.

When the darkest outcasts of Faerie—the vicious wood elves—abduct Navin, Donna finally has to accept her role in the centuries old war between the humans and the fey. Assisted by Xan, a gorgeous half-fey dropout with secrets of his own, Donna races to save her friend—even if it means betraying everything her parents and the alchemist community fought to the death to protect.

I rarely pick up to read fey novels, but for once I am glad I started The Iron Witch - it turned out to be so bloody good it was impossible not to love it. As it turns out, this is the only book that has a fey element that worked for me. Surprisingly, it doesn't even revolve much around it; I was surprised and intrigued to find dark elves instead! What a phenomenal debut this book is - truly a pleasure to read.

Donna Underwood is a reserved sort of character. Inherently isolated from the rest of her contemporaries, it is easy to see that her character is born out of her experiences and difference from the norm. She is very observant and is weary of many things; at times even paranoid of what might crawl out of the darkness. Her longing for the parents she has lost and the happiness she had to give up is so palpable in her words it is easy to sympathise with Donna. It is also apparent that she holds many secrets and is yet to discover more, so readers are drawn to her very nature.

There are not many secondary characters in The Iron Witch but Navin and Xan are both (HOT - I mean...) noteworthy and will clearly play bigger roles in the succeeding books. Nav is Donna's best and only friend, and between them is a friendship that is tiptoeing on something more. Although we do not actually see literal proof of this, Donna and Navin share such a comfortable, secure relationship with each other, that is quite difficult not to draw any conclusions. Donna is very expressive of how important Nav is to her - which is why when gorgeous half-fey Xan enters the picture, the tension becomes immediately clear. How to balance two gorgeous boys? Xan is both strong and yet vulnerable. Head strong and willing to take chances, I feel that Xan is a worthy choice for Donna, although we can never truly rule out Nav. It would be interesting to see how the romance sparks further in the series, and for the record I am unequivocally team Xan!

The Iron Witch is written very eloquently and never beats around the bush. It is very good in setting up the mystery early on in the book and is equally good in parting with the answers in a controlled way - much like enticing readers with deliberate gaps in the plot and then filling them out afterwards. It has a clever way of ensnaring its readers into the dark and twisted plot. It is also a book with a touch of magic, alchemy and steps into the realm of supernatural. The Iron Witch felt like an adventure book, an action book, a magical fairy tale and a romance book all rolled together as one.

Like I said - a phenomenal debut from Karen Mahoney!

Five Stars!

Giveaway!

Wanna to win a signed copy of The Iron Witch?

Basic Rules.

• Open to everyone, everywhere.
• Non-followers are welcome. But you do have to spread the word anywhere in cyberspace to enter.
• Ends 5th February 2011 12MN GMT
• E-mail will not be passed on to any third party.
• The winner will be chosen by random.org
• The winner will be e-mailed shortly after and will have 48 hours to reply. Otherwise a new winner will be chosen.

* Thanks to RHCB for both review copy and giveaway book and to the lovely Kaz for signing it :)

Book Review: Inside Out (Maria V Snyder)

Keep Your Head Down. Don't Get Noticed. Or Else.

I'm Trella. I'm a scrub. One of thousands who work in the lower levels, keeping Inside clean for the Uppers. I do my job and try to avoid the Pop Cops. The Trava family who rules our world from their spacious Upper levels wants us to be docile and obedient, like sheep. To insure we behave, they send the Pop Cops to police us.

So what if I occasionally use the pipes to sneak around the Upper levels? Not like it's all that dangerous--the only neck at risk is my own.

Until a lower level prophet claims a Gateway to Outside exists. And guess who he wants to steal into the Upper levels to get the proof? You’re right. Me. I alone know every single duct, pipe, corridor, shortcut, hole and ladder of Inside. It’s suicide plain and simple. But guess who can’t let a challenge like that go unanswered? Right again. Me.

I should have just said no...

I'm a new lover of everything dystopian, so when I was offered the chance to read Inside Out in advance, I jumped at the chance. Apart from Spy Glass, I was not at all familiar with Maria Snyder's work, so this was technically a new venture for me.

I loved it.

At first, it took me quite a while to get into the book. The first few pages establishes the setting and introduces our heroine, Trella. The book does this very efficiently, so despite the fact that I had to draw the basic cubic structure of the levels of Inside to aid me as I follow Trella along, soon you actually get used to the idea. I never since had any difficulties in following our heroine as she takes us readers on a very thrilling adventure.

The setting plays a huge role in how the plot progresses - and it is very claustrophobic. Pipes, air shafts, hidden rooms, cubes - you name it. The whole plot is executed in a very enclosed environment, but interestingly, as one finishes reading, it becomes clear that it is one of those book that comes from 'out of the box'. It is very, very cleverly imagined - it surprised me in exactly the way how I'd want a dystopian novel to.

I also feel like mentioning that I adored the way the social structure of Inside appears to be a reflection of the totalitarianism that modern governments seem to trudge towards. It establishes a sense of possibility in the plot.

I loved Trella as a heroine. She's fiercely independent, head-strong and daring, all of which makes her the perfect revolutionary icon. But she has many flaws, and all throughout the plot we see her being hindered by these flaws. She is cynical and distrusting and can be terribly stubborn. While secondary characters were not quite given enough focus and development, their backgrounds and back stories are not only criss-crossing, but also packed with jaw-dropping surprises and twists. I found it very clever how the author manages to surprise me again and again and again with her characters.

There is also a sprinkle of romance in this book, which was another surprise. At first I wasn't sure if there will a romance angle at all, and then I wasn't sure who Trella's mate will be (because there were quite a few to choose from) and when it all became clear...well, it was fun guessing! There was just enough romance to spice it all up and not change the flavour of the book, which I found very well done indeed!

If there were to be nit-picking the only thing I'd say would be that the high-tension scenes could have been built up better. Although there were several heart-pounding moments, I often found myself surprised that the climatic part is suddenly over. At points it felt like it was missing altogether, however that did not seem to bother me that much. Apart from that, nothing can be said about the action and sense of dread that Trella's adventures incites in the reader.

Inside Out will be appreciated by readers from across the board as there is a lot in this book to delight in -

A definite page-turner, complete with heart-pounding action and a cleverly thought-out plot. A near perfect dystopian novel!

Five Stars.


* Thank you to the lovely people at MIRA Ink for my lovely review copy.

Book Review: Anna and the French Kiss (Stephanie Perkins)

Anna is looking forward to her senior year in Atlanta, where she has a great job, a loyal best friend, and a crush on the verge of becoming more. Which is why she is less than thrilled about being shipped off to boarding school in Paris—until she meets Étienne St. Claire: perfect, Parisian (and English and American, which makes for a swoon-worthy accent), and utterly irresistible. The only problem is that he's taken, and Anna might be, too, if anything comes of her almost-relationship back home.

As winter melts into spring, will a year of romantic near-misses end with the French kiss Anna—and readers—have long awaited?

Let me warn you, this review will hardly be coherent due to a severe case of swooning. I am still recovering from the melting galore this book had me in because oh my God, Anna and the French Kiss has everything I want in a YA romance ... and more!

Don't you just hate it when parents try to live their lives through their children? That is exactly what's happening to Anna Oliphant. When her father decides to enroll her in an American boarding school in Paris, Anna's life drastically changes. She is forced to leave her family, friends and a hot boy crush back in Atlanta to be the new girl in a class of 25 seniors in a foreign country. Pretty crazy, but trust me, the author makes it f-u-n. The book follows her adventures in the most romantic city in the world...with the beautiful Etienne St. Clair, whose mere name is already so sexy!

Anna is a wonderful character and a smooth, flawless narrator. She's endearing, extremely lovable and her narration is the perfect depiction of the awkwardness of not only being the new girl in a new school in a new city (and alone!) but also of the twists and turns of falling for the perfect boy, who just so happens to be unavailable. What I enjoyed most is the fact that Anna has a surprising amount of thoughts floating about in her head. I adore her mental dialogue and humour, and there are some laugh out loud moments in the book that should be noted by all. Anna is also a little sarcastic, perhaps patronising, at times insecure. Despite all these, she's such a natural character - every girl in her shoes would probably act and think similar to her.

You will also love the secondary characters in the book. Anna's clique - Meredith, Rashmi and Josh - are a colourful bunch! There are also the classic characters - the bad, irresponsible parent, mean beautiful school queens and the bullies. And Etienne St. Clair. I swear, he is an honest-to-God dream boy. Despite the fact that he is taken, he is simply too irresistible. Anna certainly thinks so!

Throughout the book we see the complex web of friendship-only-or-is-it-something-more interaction between Anna and Etienne. There is a lot of hints, chivalrous actions, smiles and teases to decipher and decode! Strikes a chord, girls? I'm sure you remember those high school days where every action of the boy you had your eye on is turned inside out, analysed, assessed, and sorted into 'he-likes-me' and 'he-likes-me-not'. Anna goes through the exact same process, and who doesn't enjoy the ride? Anna and the French Kiss will have you sighing, clicking your fingers, giggling, and rooting for this couple!

The book is as much about romance as it is about adventure. Anna's life is Paris is certainly not only about romance, and her adaptation to the new lifestyle is well-described. There is the language, of course. The book has a lot of French phrases, which are quite fun to figure out. There are also references to Paris landmarks which would make you want to be there. Then there is the culture, which Anna has to adapt to as well, by learning to get over stereotypes and misconceptions. We see how her acceptance in Paris coincide with the blossoming romance between Etienne and her.

The plot is crafted perfectly. I mean, what better to cure homesickness with than love? In the city of Paris itself? This book just oozes romance! And I shall end with a really cute quote that is so totally this book:

"Argh! Boys turn girls into such idiots."

Cinq étoiles!

National Non-Fiction Day Book Review: The Undercover Economist (Tim Harford)

Who makes most money from the demand for cappuccinos early in the morning at Waterloo Station? Why is it impossible to get a foot on the property ladder? How does the Mafia make money from laundries when street gangs pushing drugs don’t? Who really benefits from immigration? How can China, in just fifty years, go from the world’s worst famine to one of the greatest economic revolutions of all time, lifting a million people out of poverty a month?

Looking at familiar situations in unfamiliar ways, THE UNDERCOVER ECONOMIST is a fresh explanation of the fundamental principles of the modern economy, illuminated by examples from the streets of London to the booming skyscrapers of Shanghai to the sleepy canals of Bruges. Leaving behind textbook jargon and equations, Tim Harford will reveal the games of signals and negotiations, contests of strength and battles of wit that drive not only the economy at large but the everyday choices we make.

The truth is, in my eyes, economics is and will always be the best field of study ever. Complex, world-changing and integral to our daily lives, it has never been and will never be obsolete or far removed from our everyday actions and decisions. It may not have occurred to everyone how important economics is and how deeply it affects each individual until the onslaught of the recent recession, but regardless of how long your interest has been, The Undercover Economist is a must-read for just about anyone who has the slightest bit of curiosity in what economics is really all about.

Tim Harford is a genius. This I found out when I attended one of his talks at the LSE a few months back. His book is no less brilliant and does not let up in its charms. The Undercover Economist is a good introduction to the study of economics - it covers the basic and immediately dives into what it really is. It erases the misconception that it only affects economists, and explains in various understandable ways. The author explains the subject in clear, easy to understand language, tailored especially for non-economics folks. That is not to say that this book is only for those who doesn't study economics. Fellow economists will also be charmed by The Undercover Economist, especially those in their early years of study and are looking towards how economics operates in our daily life.

The text in the book is conversational and is founded through examples in real life situations. Everyone will be able to relate to this because it refers to many things we do regularly - for instance, choosing free trade instead of non-free trade coffee, shopping in supermarkets and getting on the property ladder. The insights this book will give you makes you feel like an insider knowing how things operate - it is rather brilliant! It answers so many questions in a way that will pique your interest in the beauty that is economics.

And if you think this book is a boring academic text - you're wrong! It's as fun as an economics book can be - with its light hearted banters and amusing situations, not only is the author's brilliance embedded in this book, but also his fantastic sense of humour!

Clearly, I love this book, and I'm sure other readers do too. If you're vaguely interested in economics or are simply bored, why not pick up a copy of The Undercover Economist and perhaps discover an appreciation for everything economics...

Five Stars!


*This book is reviewed for The National Non-Fiction Day.

To find out more about National Non-Fiction Day, visit http://nnfd.org

Book Review: Boys Don't Cry (Malorie Blackman)

This is the explosively page-turning new novel for teenagers from the author of the award-winning "Noughts and Crosses" sequence. You're about to receive your A-level results and then a future of university and journalism awaits. But the day they're due to arrive your old girlfriend Kendra turns up unexpectedly ...with a baby ...You assume Kendra's helping a friend, until she nips out to buy some essentials, leaving you literally holding the baby ...Malorie's dramatic new novel will keep you on the edge of your seat right to the final page.

There is no one word that can describe just how good of a read Boys Don't Cry is. This book is one of the few that should be read by every teenage boy in the world - it's packed with life's lessons and I'm sure I'm not the only one who says that this book is a thought-provoking and a reflective read.

When Dante Bridgeman finds the biggest surprise in his life lying in a baby buggy, to say that his life is turned upside down is an understatement. Suddenly, he is no longer a typical student waiting for his A level results and university, but a single father to an eleven-month baby, Emma. With his ex-girlfriend and the baby's mother Melanie suddenly MIA, he finds his future veering dangerously towards the unknown. The changes in Dante's life - every minute details - is well described and highlighted. I'm familiar with the difficulty of babysitting, but not quite with the difficulty of single parenting. Dante's narration is vivid and so real it's almost like a first hand account. Nothing quite gets to you than the voice of someone who has really been there - I got that from Dante. His sacrifices opens the reader's eyes to the reality of being a parent - single, teenage or otherwise. His concerns starts from the basic (what about university? How do I stop her from crying?) and evolves to the bigger (will I be a good father? How will I provide for Emma?) questions. I am a lot like Dante in situation (A level results, university...) but it is his questions that makes him so normal, so average. That, more than anything, makes Dante real. His actions, his thoughts and his words show his flaws, but it also channels his growth as a person, as a brother, as a son and as a father to Emma.

Interspersed with Dante's life changing moments are his brother Adam's. My heart went out to Adam in this book - he's a cheerful lad who is neither ashamed nor afraid of his sexuality. The challenges that face him are not the easiest ones to face nor read. Despite that, he has an indomitable spirit that rises up and faces these challenges head on. Of course, Adam has his share of challenges, but with his family's support never once leaving his side, Adam's strength is clear for all to see. I'm not sure who between him and Emma I find more adorable - but both of them are near top of the list of characters I love hugely.

There are varying sub plots in the book in support of the main plot. These elaborates more on the characters and are very well ingrained with the narrative. Mostly, they are resolved and I am one happy reader with how everything turned out. The secondary characters are involved in these subplots and are also very important as they are foils to and frame the protagonists. Quite simply, I have no complaints! It's my first Malorie Blackman read and I sure will check out more of her works.

Boys Don't Cry is an eye-opener, a complex novel that is one of the few which effectively thrusts the reader into issues that matter most in the big world. It made me cry, it made me think and it made me want to read so much more. I love this!

Five Stars!


* A huge thank you to RHCB for my proof copy.

Book Review: Nevermore (Kelly Creagh)

Cheerleader Isobel Lanley is horrified when she is paired with Varen Nethers for an English project, which is due—so unfair—on the day of the rival game. Cold and aloof, sardonic and sharp-tongued, Varen makes it clear he’d rather not have anything to do with her either. But when Isobel discovers strange writing in his journal, she can’t help but give this enigmatic boy with the piercing eyes another look.

Soon, Isobel finds herself making excuses to be with Varen. Steadily pulled away from her friends and her possessive boyfriend, Isobel ventures deeper and deeper into the dream world Varen has created through the pages of his notebook, a realm where the terrifying stories of Edgar Allan Poe come to life.

As her world begins to unravel around her, Isobel discovers that dreams, like words, hold more power than she ever imagined, and that the most frightening realities are those of the mind. Now she must find a way to reach Varen before he is consumed by the shadows of his own nightmares.

His life depends on it.

Nevermore is one of my most eagerly awaited debut novels of 2010. Quite rightly so - lengthy as it is, I could not put it down. Whenever I take a break to rest my eyes, I cannot get it off my mind and my hands itch to feel the book again. Nevermore's haunting quality hooked me right into Isobel and Varen's world from page one so thoroughly, I still struggle to free it from my consciousness. The book demands to be read in one sitting, folks!

If I were to use one word to describe Nevermore, I'd go for haunting. Although part romance, this book leans more towards horror and mystery. Ingrained within the plot is the prominent figure of Edgar Allan Poe - and reflective of his works, Nevermore is just as dark and as fascinating. Knowing more about the poet would better your reading experience, but regardless, it is hard to resist this compelling book. It is superbly written, descriptive and genuine to its characters. The feel of the narrative is dark but smooth, fluid and completely captivating. Nevermore will drag you into its depths as easy as Poe's works - it's complex, it's twisted, but worth every word. It will have you turning pages well into the night, and leave your imagination running!

Everything begins when Isobel finds herself paired with Varen for an English project. Goth and poetic, and definitely outside of Isobel's crew, Varen finds himself threatened and bullied by Isobel's boyfriend, Brad. Isobel's defence of Varen and her subsequent distance from her crew endeared me to her. Her choice is not to stand by Varen because she is attracted to him, but because she knows her friends are acting wrongly - I liked that best about her. Her actions carry an air of realism and I never had a moment of doubt and dislike for Isobel. Varen is unlike many guys - he wears eyeliners, has lip piercing, he loses himself in the darkness of words, and is distant. He is complex, broken and... hot. It's a classic mismatch, but cheerleader Isobel is undeniably perfect for the Goth Varen. Their chemistry is one of the best I've read in YA romance.

Unlike what you might expect, Varen's and Isobel's relationship is chaste, appropriate, and is strictly within the safety of friendship - but, and it's a humongous, colossal, gargantuan BUT, the air whenever these two are together sizzles. The romantic tension between them is evident in every word, in every touch, in every searing gaze. The lack of physical interaction only intensifies the need for one, and shoot me if I was not scrambling for more Var-obel moments! Only the necessity to understand Varen more prevented me from swooning!

Isobel's difficulty at figuring out Varen's emotions is one of the most compelling parts of the plot. Although written in the third person, the readers are taken into Varen's world through the eyes of Isabel, and only through that. As a result, you only get to know what Isabel knows - a lot of suspicion arises from it and the continuous mysteries and revelations as more about Varen is uncovered is a brilliant rush. With secondary characters that will have you grinning and laughing to frowning and yelling, rest assured you'll enjoy every bit of Nevermore!

I was in tatters by the ending, and it will be a slow, painful torture to wait for the next book. Fantastic first book in a trilogy (thank God!) - and horror fanatic or not, Edgar Allan Poe lover or otherwise, read.this.book.!

Five Stars!

Book Review: The Immortal Highlander (Karen Marie Moning)

BEWARE: lethally seductive alpha male of immense strength and dark eroticism, do not look at him. Do not touch him. Do not be tempted. Do not be seduced.

With his long, black hair and dark, mesmerizing eyes, Adam Black is Trouble with a capital T. Immortal, arrogant, and intensely sensual, he is the consummate seducer, free to roam across time and continents in pursuit of his insatiable desires. That is, until a curse strips him of his immortality and makes him invisible, a cruel fate for so irresistible a man. With his very life at stake, Adam’s only hope for survival is in the hands of the one woman who can actually see him.

Enter law student Gabrielle O’Callaghan, who is cursed with the ability to see both worlds: Mortal and Faery. From the moment she lays eyes on this stunning male, Gabby is certain of one thing: He could be her undoing. Thus begins a long, dangerous seduction. Because despite his powerful strength and unquenchable hungers, Adam refuses to take a woman by force. Instead, he will tease his way into Gabby’s bed and make her want him just as he wants her.

Now, no matter how hard Gabby tries to avoid him, Adam is everywhere, invisible to all but her—perched atop her office cubicle in too-tight jeans, whispering softly from behind the stacks of the law library, stealing her breath away with his knowing smile…all the while tempting her with the promise of unimaginable pleasure in his arms. But soon danger will intrude on this sensual dance. For as Adam’s quest to regain his immortality plunges them into a world of timeless magic and the deadly politics of the Faery queen’s court, the price of surrender could be their very lives. Unless they can thwart the conspiracy that threatens both mortal and Faery realms…and give them a shot at a destiny few mortals ever know: glorious, wondrous, endless love.

Out of all the books in Karen Marie Moning's Highlander Series, this is the book I was most excited about. The Immortal Highlander is the (great) Adam Black's story. First introduced in Beyond the Highland Mist, Adam Black's incredible charm and unbelievable arrogance hooked me to him. So of course, now stripped of his powers, invisible to both mortals and fae and in a (very puny, very needy) human body, Adam attempts to save his queen, seduce Gabrielle O'Callaghan and evade an old enemy all in one go. I just had to read this book!

This series is already my favourite, and despite ridiculously high expectations for this particular book, I'm pleased to say it did not fail me. Adam Black is as arrogant as ever, just as gorgeous and all the more drool-worthy. His antics in this book are beyond hilarious, so much so it actually hurt to read it! God I was laughing so hard. There's nothing funnier than Adam Black asserting his prowess to a very cynical modern woman! Despite his ever-present arrogance, readers see deeper into him in this book. Although not a typical bad boy with a good heart, Adam has his selfless moments. Gabrielle herself is a loveable character, and is the perfect match for him in every way. Just as defiant and raised to hate the Fae, she is the one person who does not bow down to him and is therefore his equal. I love the way these two interact with each other. Adam is perpetually seducing her and Gabrielle is resisting just as much. Every bit of development means a lot in this book, I love it!

Another strength is the suspense in the plot. As this series progresses, more suspense is infused in the books, which results to a romance/adventure thrill which I can never say no to. Add Adam Black to that and you get the most amazing quotes. Romantic, arrogant, pure male and completely and utterly drool-worthy!

Fans of previous books will also delight in there are recurring characters, and I do think it's best to read the previous books as it will give you better platform to understand Adam and the plot. Amazing book!

And so, in letters as big and as bold as Adam Black:

FIVE STARS.

Spoiler Free Book Review: Mockingjay (Suzanne Collins)

Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has survived the Hunger Games twice. But now that she's made it out of the bloody arena alive, she's still not safe. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge...

So, Mockingjay. I'm not going to lie - I am addicted, obsessed and completely loyal to this trilogy, so my review is reflective of that - but even so let me tell you, this book did not exactly bring me joy. It evokes a lot of emotions, yes but I was crying not smiling at the end of it.

Mockingjay stays true to its dystopian origins. While a lot will not agree with me, I feel that the grimness of the book is a part of its strength. In true dystopian fashion, it explores the downfall of human conscience and displays the worse of our attributes; like Hunger Games and Catching Fire, I was appalled by many of the events in the book and at points felt sick at the ability of the characters to act as cruelly as they do. At times I felt that Mockingjay borders on unbearable - exactly how grim can a book be? It seems that nothing close to happily ever after can be associated with this book, because believe me, it can be depressing.

I can't help but comment on all the political implications on this book, because the trilogy is far beyond just Katniss' story. The workings of the rebellion and the fight for freedom takes a bulk of the book and the tension spirals out of control in many of its pages.As the mockingjay, Katniss traverses the thin line that divides both sides. I love the twisted, wicked feel of the battle because that was exactly how I imagined it to be. Not only full of secrets, but full of dark aims and uncertainties.

There is a lot I can say about how the characters' fates are sealed. We know beforehand that there will be deaths; what we do not know is who will die. Or exactly how many. As it turns out, no number of speculations could possibly have prepared me for the depressing turn of events in Mockingjay. Unfair will not even begin to cover what I think, because really I felt as if the characters were oppressed. Their circumstances were too heavy to comprehend experiencing, and the book does not give them what happiness they were due. The strength of characters is evident here, as clearly as their weaknesses. At this point, we readers are already very attached to the characters, so extreme reactions are expected. When I found out exactly who dies, I literally screamed and cried and wished the words changed. It was not supposed to happen, that was my primary reaction. There was a sense of hopelessness and helplessness and surely, you have got to be kidding? I felt as if I was killed right along with the character(s).

It was even more painful to read about the fates of those who were indirectly responsible for those deaths. And while I was not happy with the decisions of some of the major characters, I can understand the rationale behind it. It was not easy to pretend to be in their shoes and emphatise, but to comprehend the depth of pain and grief is, and that understanding is what makes it seem like a true decision. Depressing, but I felt that the portrayal of the damages to the human persona is not only accurate but also vivid, I believe Mockingjay stays true to its origins.

The ending I felt is slightly too rushed for my liking and too much too short. I am not sure I approve with what happened to some of the major characters, because towards the end I felt the need to know more about how they fared. I needed details, further insights and I don't think that was exactly granted. The ending is open to interpretations and leaves a lot to the reader to ponder and imagine. It is not happy per se, but as close to happiness as a dystopian trilogy like this one can be. I'm going to go ahead and say that the ending be-fits the feel of the trilogy. Had it been a flowery happy ever after, I would have much disliked it, because then it would appear as if it was only made to please the readers. It's not the best possible ending, but I can envision it happening following the events of Mockingjay. So it is a neat ending I guess. Still, I needed more!

I'm sure Mockingjay is part evil - it gave me such a terrible case of withdrawal once I finished that I did not know what to say or do - and that was on top of all the other emotions the events in the book evoked! There was a sense of 'now what?' that hovered over me when it was over, and I was emotionally-drained. Which means it's a good book, a great trilogy and a worthy read. Which means I am still hooked to it, and will probably always be. Which means Katniss' story is unmissable. Prepare to scream, kick and cry with this final book.

FIVE STARS.

PS. Hunger Games Fanfictions, anyone? Already I see a lot of readers writing alternative endings:)

Book Review: The Hunger Games (Suzanne Collins)

Winning will make you famous.

Losing means certain death.

In a dark vision of the near future, a terrifying reality TV show is taking place. Twelve boys and twelve girls are forced to appear in a live event called the Hunger Games. There is only one rule: kill or be killed.

When sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen steps forward to take her sister's place in the games, she sees it as a death sentence. But Katniss has been close to death before. For her, survival is second nature.

With a few exceptions, I feel I am the last person to read this book. In a way, I'm glad I read it late. Had I read it any sooner I would have gone insane waiting for Catching Fire and again waiting for Mockingjay.

There is always something unnerving about dystopian fiction in general, but what makes Hunger Games just that bit more gruesome is the fact that it pits children against each other under the amusement of everyone else. The thought it sickening. The Hunger Games certainly lives up to the brutality of the concept, and Katniss' narration gives a very vivid picture of just how sadistic it all is. I must admit that while reading, the Hunger Games felt like one big adventure and as such, has a certain magnetism to it that I could not say no to. But for once I am glad not to be part of that adventure and be in the relative safety of my bed reading rather than fighting for survival.

I'm sure a lot will agree Katniss Everdeen is probably the strongest female protagonist in the world of YA. Her voice is authentic and conversational and thus easy to follow, despite the heavy decisions she has to make within the circumstances. The ease in which she narrates her world adds to her strength and is a strong contrast to the darkness of her future. She's very real and very tangible, truly a person of her own.

There is no end to the number of secondary characters that is note-worthy in this book. Friendships and bonds are fragile, but unmistakable. It's particularly difficult to endear myself to any one of the tributes as they are doomed to perish one way or another, but certain characters attach themselves so strongly that their deaths deliver a very different point across to the readers. One of these points being just how satirical The Hunger Game is. It reminds me of George Orwell's Nineteen Eighty Four and hence also carry heavy political connotations.

The Hunger games does not forgo humour or drama, but it excels in brutality. And I do love it. It's a bloody good book!

As for the great debate? Well, Team Peeta.

Five Stars!

Book Review: I am Number Four (Pittacus Lore)

In the beginning we were nine.

We left when we were very young, almost too young to remember. Almost. And now . . .

Three are gone.

We are here to keep our race alive, which was almost entirely obliterated. We're just trying to survive.

Six are left.

But we are hunted, and the hunters won't stop until they've killed us all.

They caught Number One in Malaysia.

Number Two in England.

And Number Three in Kenya.

I am Number Four.

I know that I am next.

I was right to be excited and downright giddy for I am Number Four because it totally rocks my sock. No wonder it's been optioned for film even before the book has been published. It's so brilliant it has got to be epic.

I was in awe with the concept of the Lorien Nine. Sent to hide on Earth after the destruction of their planet Lorien, they are hunted by the destroyer of Lorien, the Morgadorians. A Loric charm protects these nine so that they may only be killed in order. The first three are now dead, and Number Four - otherwise known as John Smith-, being the next target, hides in Paradise, Ohio with his guardian Henri. The danger that surrounds both John, Henri and their every move creates tension of the best kind. That lurking, dangerous feel of the unknown is well depicted by this book, and culminates in an action sequence so intense reading it drained me afterwards, as if I myself was part of it!

Though not a usual fan of sci-fi, I found it hard not to be amazed by the Loric way of life. Reading about it felt like a discovery of a rich culture I wanted to indulge in, and the Lorien Nine in particular had me reading in slack jawed fascination. Everything that binds them together and all that they share are completely mersmerising - their legacies, the loric charm, their fight for survival against the Mogadorians. It's fascinating, and it was so very difficult not to indulge in exploring more about Lorien and its people!

Our Hero, Number Four, is one swoon-worthy alien. His voice is authentic, characterised by the brief, punctuated sentences. His narrative intensifies the tension and works particularly well in the fast-paced action scenes. Despite his otherworldly roots, the book takes some time showing just how human John is. He is an alien with a heart, and one easy to adore. Like any typical fifteen year-old boy, he gets into fights, vies for female attention, and makes some genuine mistakes.

Despite his otherwordly roots however, John's battles are not only of extra-terrestial origins, but are also comprised of those which he has wielded for himself and for those whom he has grown to care. In particular, for his love interest Sarah and best friend Sam. The sense of brotherhood and friendship is also strong in I am Number Four - in John's closeness to Henri and his friendship with Sam's. Relationships are at the heart of this book and it was a delight to read bout Henri and John in particular. I adore and admire Henri as a character - his selflessness shines in this book and his affection for John unforgettable! Of course, I must also note the romance. Sarah and John share something innocent yet moving, one I'm sure readers will root for.

I am Number Four is one brilliant book. With an epic concept, a heart-stopping action sequence, a wonderful romance and an emotionally charged resolution, this sci-fi thriller is unmissable. It's gripping, it's exciting, it's bloody brilliant. Like I said, epic!

Five Stars.

Did you know? Pittacus Lore is actually James Frey. I am Number Four is currently being filmed for a movie release on February 2011 and it stars Alex Pettyfer (sigh!) as John Smith. Yes, I am one very happy gal :)

I am Number Four will be out in the UK on 26th August 2010. Visit the official website here to find out more.

* I received this book from Waterstones for review.

Book Review: Kiss of the Highlander (Karen Marie Moning)

A laird trapped between centuries...

Enchanted by a powerful spell, Highland laird Drustan MacKeltar slumbered for nearly five centuries hidden deep in a cave, until an unlikely savior awakened him. The enticing lass who dressed and spoke like no woman he’d ever known was from his distant future, where crumbled ruins were all that remained of his vanished world. Drustan knew he had to return to his own century if he was to save his people from a terrible fate. And he needed the bewitching woman by his side....

A woman changed forever in his arms...

Gwen Cassidy had come to Scotland to shake up her humdrum life and, just maybe, meet a man. How could she have known that a tumble down a Highland ravine would send her plunging into an underground cavern — to land atop the most devastatingly seductive man she’d ever seen? Or that once he’d kissed her, he wouldn’t let her go?

Bound to Drustan by a passion stronger than time, Gwen is swept back to sixteenth-century Scotland, where a treacherous enemy plots against them ... and where a warrior with the power to change history will defy time itself for the woman he loves....

This is by far the most engaging novel in the series, and one of, if not my favourite in the whole series. While the first three couples have been perfect for each other in the classical sense, our hero Drustan and our heroine Gwen engaged in a romantic play with unconventional roles. In general I prefer the latter, but in a novel where the protagonists are centuries apart, the female being in the later century, I expected a fiesty heroine and Gwen is exactly that! Which is why I love the role reversal in The Highlander's Kiss so very much.

I always love Karen Marie Moning's characters and both Gwen and Drustan have a special place in my heart. I admire Gwen's firmness in her stance, her persistence and her bluntness. Despite her inexistent love life, rift with late parents and tumbling career, she can still spare Drustan a piece of herself. Drustan MacKeltar is a persistent man himself, but with a more stubborn, arrogant edge. First born, laird and with an ego the size of Scotland, waking up beneath Gwen in the middle of the twenty first century is one hell of a surprise for him. Despite the challenge, he takes everything in his stride and maintains his dazzling charm. Drustan also comes up with seriously funny things in this book, and that alone should be read by anyone! There are no limits to masculine pride and testosterone in Kiss of the Highlander, so prepared to be charmed!

The Highlander's Kiss is a plot-driven novel, really. It has dramatic irony, so part of it is predictable from that viewpoint. However, it's still such a real roller coaster ride; just when I thought I knew the plot, it twists and turns and surprises me. More than once too! Out of all the books in the series, this one has more intellectual motifs as Gwen is a physicist. She analyses the plot in her own terms and produces academic explanations of her adventures. In a way, her scientific reasoning adds colour to the plot and explains the sudden twists well. Of course, need I mention how romantic it is? Especially the oath and the ending? Well heck, it's romantic!

Like the rest of the highlander series, The Highlander's Kiss has vibrant secondary characters bound to recur in the succeeding books. It ends perfectly to set up the next book, which revolves primarily around Dageus, Drustan's brother. Although it closes the Gwen and Drustan's chapter well, it also leaves a gripping cliffhanger which will have readers demanding the next book.

Besides, don't you just love those sexy, luscious lips on the cover ?

FIVE STARS.

* I received this copy for review. 

Book Review: City of Bones (Cassandra Clare)

When fifteen-year-old Clary Fray heads out to the Pandemonium Club in New York City, she hardly expects to witness a murder - much less a murder committed by three teenagers covered with strange tattoos and brandishing bizarre weapons. Then the body disappears into thin air. It's hard to call the police when the murderers are invisible to everyone else and when there is nothing - not even a smear of blood - to show that a boy has died. Or was he a boy?

If book can give hang-overs then City of Bones can give the best and worst kind of it. Best, because I'm completely intoxicated with this book; and the worst - because I am utterly and completely going insane over it! This is one hell of a book. It's simply superb!

I think I am one of the remaining few still new to Cassandra Claire's Mortal Instruments series. I regret not reading City of Bones sooner, as it turned out to not only exceed all my expectations, but gave me a thrill that I had not quite experienced since the Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings books! I will probably inevitably repeat all the gushing reviews given to this book, but there's no way around it. It's just that good.

City of Bones stars Clary Fray, an ordinary girl who discovers a world beyond any she knew existed. In the Shadow world, prominent figures include demons, warlocks, witches, werewolves, vampires, shadowhunters and a certain Jace Wayland. The author's description of this world is impeccable. In rich and with great detail, strong imagery and letter-perfect writing, City of Bones just lures the reader into its world. Clary's adventure I don't often wish I belong to a book world, but I certainly did with this one.

Clary is an amazingly strong heroine. I love her perseverance and her will to fight, her selfless concern for others and even her sarcasm. She's a fiesty heroine, one I totally cheered on. She handles trials with grace and is firm in her stand. Secondary characters are not less note-worthy. They are colourful and their vibrance give this book life. Isabel for instance, is as just as tough as Clary - I really adore her. Alec, Simon, Luke, Hodge - the variety of characters is amazing. All of them are fully-developed and important in their own rights. And of course, I think this review would be incomplete if I don't mention how hot the heroes are. I love both Simon and Jace, but damn. Jace Wayland? Yes please.

City of Bones has the markings of a great classic and so much more. It's exhilarating, intoxicating and every bit gripping. Expect a whole lot of suspense, tension, thrill, drama, you name it! There were twists in every corner, new characters to delight readers, adventures that would give anyone an adrenaline rush and a romance that will leave you gaping. As more secrets are uncovered, more truths laid bare and more of the Shadow World discovered, the more this book hooks you. It was slightly draining to read as it really engages the reader; I felt as if I was in one adventure myself!

And the ending? The bomb. The profanities the flew out of my mouth after I found out the great revelation was unbelievable. Like I can wait a second for City of Ashes?

Five stars.

Book Review: The Ghost and the Goth (Stacey Kade)

After a close encounter with the front end of a school bus, Alona Dare goes from Homecoming Queen to Queen of the Dead. Now she’s stuck here in spirit form with no sign of the big, bright light coming to take her away. To make matters worse, the only person who might be able to help her is Will Killian, a total loser/outcast type who hates the social elite. He alone can see and hear her, but he wants nothing to do with the former mean girl of Groundsboro High.

Can they get over their mutual distrust—and this weird attraction between them—to work together before Alona vanishes for good and Will is locked up for seeing things that don’t exist?

I don't think I've ever smiled so broadly after reading a book than I did with Stacey Kade's The Ghost and the Goth. Vibrant and full of life, this book just downright loveable. Yep, you totally should get this, and devour it right away.

Alona Dare - three-time homecoming queen, varsity cheerleader co-captain, technically perfect - is such classic Queen Bee (warning: can be bitchy). I love her voice - undeniably feminine, saturated with unyielding confidence and with an admirable tenacity. What endears me most to Alona is not the fact that she has hidden issues or that she is afterall imperfect, but more because she's not infuriatingly arrogant. She may be ruthless, but this only stems from one trait: frankness. Unlike the conventional miss perfect, she's not being mean for the sake of it. It's simply just her defense mechanism, the one way she knows how to survive the big world with.

Similarly, Will Killian is a charming character with many faults and vulnerabilities. Although commonly labelled the school freak, hidden behind the drone of music and the colour black is really just a boy longing to live his life in peace. In the world's unlikeliest partnership (that's not even considering the fact that she's dead and he's not), Alona and Will will find answers, help and drive each other mad. And tell you what, I love every single bit of Alona-Will moments!

It's hard to find fault in either of these wonderful pair. It's one of those rare books with characters so magnetic you immediately connect with them - that's what it was like to me. They are charming by themselves alone and so hilariously uplifting together. Alona's and Will's narrative occur alternatively in this book, interwoven to ensure a continuous flow of all the positive vibes I could ever get in a book. But no, I'm not implying the book is everything fun and happy. It has depth and morals too. The plot spends time in highlighting the transition of Alona and Will's relationship with each other from aversion to acquaintance to friendship and beyond, and in doing so emphasises their acceptance of each other by seeing more than just the superficial. As they begin to trust each other, their smallest acts become significant and carry with them a major 'aww' factor. So very cute!

As the plot progresses, the focus shifts more towards seeking answers both Alona and Will are looking for and generally turns to its darker side. Sub plots also become more prominent in the second half of the book, as do the secondary characters. Unconnected links are finally drawn together and a very fresh, very inventive take on the afterlife is conjured in the Ghost and the Goth. It's slightly vague at parts, but there should be some more answers in the sequel, and there was nothing significantly amiss. Of course, Alona and Will learn to accept, if not understand each other too. In doing so, their respective characters really develop and mature. Together, these two seems to have an endless supply of surprises that had me giggling and grinning and being extremely happy!

The Ghost and the Goth is one of the most endearing books I have ever read. Uplifting, funny and loveable beyond compare, it's also one of my utter favourites! Loving the cover as much as I do is not harm either, right? What am I to do whilst waiting for Queen of the Dead?

I rate this Five Stars!