Book Review - Just Like Fate

Title: Just Like Fate
Author: Cat Patrick & Suzanne Young
Publisher: Electric Monkey
Release Date: 27 Feb. 2014
ISBN-13: 978-1405268073

Synopsis
Caroline is at a crossroads. Her whole family is on her back, and her grandmother, the only person who really understands her, is sick, maybe dying. All she wants to do is escape. So when her best friend suggests a night out to forget her troubles, Caroline must choose: stay by her grandmother's side, or go to the party and live her life . . . and maybe meet the boy of her dreams.

This decision will split Caroline's fate into two separate paths - and she's about to live them both. But there can only be one happy ending . . .

My Review
This is another book on the list for Children's Book Day at work and it sounded interesting to me, I was actually looking forward to it. The synopsis reminded me a bit of the film 'Sliding Doors' starring Gwyneth Paltrow which I enjoyed so thought this could be good.
Caroline has to make a choice - stay at her grandmothers bedside or go out for a night. It sounds like such a simple choice but as her gran is on her death bed it could be the difference between saying goodbye and missing those final moments. Sometimes our choices change everything. 
I liked Caroline, I immediately felt a connection to her and wanted to see what would happen. I was also very intrigued to see how the two different paths would affect the storyline and how they would meet again at the end (Because of course you know they have to meet again!) 
I liked the style of writing and although I was worried I would be confused about which path I was on but luckily the book makes it very easy for you and I had no problems at all. In fact I read this book in just one day. I found it hard to put down and I believe that did help in keeping track of what was happening. 
I think Caroline is a relateable character for many teens, as this book covers many aspects such as bereavements, friendships, first loves and general teen worries. She is human and has her faults and makes mistakes but she is still likeable and she doesn't give up which I like to see in a character. 
I am glad that I had a chance to read this book and I really did enjoy it. I've read some Cat patrick before and did enjoy it so I'm pleased she didn't disappoint on this occasion. I am intrigued to know if one author wrote the 'Stay' chapters and one wrote the 'Go' or if they shared each between them, but you can't tell it's two different people when reading it - they have combined their skills seamlessly.
Definitely a good read and one I would recommend. 

My Rating

     

Book Review - Four

Title: Four
Author: Veronica Roth
Series: Divergent (Short Story Collection)
Publisher: Harper Collins Children's Books
Release Date: 8 July 2014
ISBN-13: 978-0007582891

Synopsis
Two years before Beatrice Prior makes her choice, the sixteen-year-old son of Abnegation’s faction leader does the same. Tobias’s transfer to Dauntless is his chance to begin again. Newly renamed 'Four' he discovers that initiation is only the beginning.
Four must claim his place in the Dauntless hierarchy. And his decisions will affect future initiates as well as uncover secrets that could threaten his own future—and the future of the entire faction system.
Two years later, Four is poised to act but the course is still unclear. The first new initiate who jumps into the net might change all that. With her, the way to righting their world might become clear. With her it might become possible to be Tobias once again.

My Review
I was so excited when this came out, but I haven't bought a copy yet as I want the American version, as I have the other books in this series with those covers and I have ot have them match. So I was waiting to read it until I got my copy, but as that hasn't happened I decided I should request it from the library to read. That way I still get to enjoy the story and I can keep looking for the American cover I want. 
This book opens up the world of Divergent a bit more and reveals a lot about Four's past. He's the guy we all love from the series and this is a great read. It really lets you see where he really came from, it just gives him another dimension, makes him seem well rounded. The book starts with Four's test and Choosing ceremony, then moves through his Initiation and then features the time he becomes a trainer - when Tris is first introduced. It was really refreshing to see the story from another point of view and made me see some details I hadn't noticed before. 
I read this in one sitting, it's easy to read and will envelope you into the world just as much as the original Divergent series did. It was like coming home and revisiting old friends. 
This is a must read for any fan of the series, it's fresh, fun and an amazing read.

My Rating

    

Book Review - Take Me On

Title: Take Me On
Author: Katie McGarry
Series: Pushing the Limits (Book 4)
Publisher: MIRA Ink
Release Date: 6 Jun 2014
ISBN-13: 978-1848452909

Synopsis
Champion kickboxer Haley swore she'd never set foot in the ring again after one tragic night. But then the guy she can't stop thinking about accepts a mixed martial arts fight in her honor. Suddenly, Haley has to train West Young. All attitude, West is everything Haley promised herself she'd stay away from. Yet he won't last five seconds in the ring without her help.
West is keeping a big secret from Haley. About who he really is. But helping him fighting for her is a shot at redemption. Especially since it' s his fault her family is falling apart. He can't change the past, but maybe he can change Haley's future.
Hayley and West have agreed to keep their relationship strictly in the ring. But as an unexpected bond forms between them and attraction mocks their best intentions, they'll face their darkest fears and discover love is worth fighting for.

My Review
I love Katie McGarry's books, she is one author I will always pick up no matter what. I never thought she would be my type of book, as I usually head towards fantasy and paranormal, but I have actually discovered I quite like contemporary romance and Katie is the cream of the crop when it comes to contemporary.
This is the fourth book set in the world of the Pushing the Limits novels, they are all individual stories following different characters but some of them do cross reference to the other books so it will make more sense if you read them in the order they came out but you can follow it without. But really why wouldn't you read them all, they are fantastic books and well worth a read.
This book follows Hayley and West. Hayley used to be a champion kick boxer, she had won titles and was the top of her game, but then something happened, something that changed it all and she swore never to enter the ring again, never to fight anyone again and never to get involved with boys who trained as fighters. But an old grudge still stands between Hayley, her ex boyfriend and her brothers. Then new boy West gets involved, he's new to this area but gets thrown in at the deep end. When he agrees to a fight in order to protect Hayley, he's not got much hope of winning, but maybe if they work together they can pull it off. But both of them have secrets, problems at home and things they don't want the other to know. They must get past all of that and then maybe they have a hope of winning, or at least not getting killed!
I started reading this book and was immediately thrown straight back into the world, although it's been quite a while since I visited, this book has been out for a while but somehow I missed it. It was only when I saw the announcement for the new book coming out this month that I looked back at the ones already out and realised I hadn't ever got a copy of this one. I requested it straight away and moved it to the top of my pile. 
It was nice to see Isaiah and Rachel feature again and made everything tie up nicely, it even answered some questions I had about how their story ended which was an added bonus. 
I loved Hayley as a character, she is dealing with some pretty bad things and has no one she can really tell. Everything is piling up on her but she refuses to quit. She is naturally tough, and although she has moments where she breaks down - these just make her so much more human. I felt like she was the sort of girl I would have been friends with at school, if I wasn't scared of her tough exterior that is! 
She has a very level head and a very loyal heart, she will do anything to try and keep her family together and just do the right thing. 
West is more of an unknown, and although he plays the tough guy bit, he is actually very caring and sensitive, most of the fights he gets into are because he is trying to protect someone he loves, and once he's met Hayley this is no different. He can tell that she is the type of girl who can take care of herself, but he can also see through her facade and realises she needs someone at her side too. 
The pair work well together throughout the book, they have a fair share of arguments and fights but you can really feel the romance blossoming between them.
Katie McGarry is one of those writers who writes 'real'. the situations, the characters, the world. It all just comes to life on the page and makes you feel like you know the people and could just step through the pages of the book into their world.
I literally read this in one sitting, after saying I would put the book down and go to bed, I ended up sitting for a further 2 hours and finishing the whole thing. I just couldn't walk away, and everytime I considered it something would pull me back.
These books really are amazing and will make you have serious feels!
Maybe not appropriate for some younger readers due to the issues involved such as abuse. But otherwise I would recommend it to all!

My Rating

      

Book Review - Department 19

Title: Department 19
Author: Will HIll
Series: Department 19 (book 1)
Publisher: HarperCollinsChildren'sBooks
Release Date: 31 Mar 2011
ISBN-13: 978-0007354450

Synopsis
Jamie Carpenter's life will never be the same. His father is dead, his mother is missing, and he was just rescued by an enormous man named Frankenstein. Jamie is brought to Department 19, where he is pulled into a secret organization responsible for policing the supernatural, founded more than a century ago by Abraham Van Helsing and the other survivors of Dracula. Aided by Frankenstein's monster, a beautiful vampire girl with her own agenda, and the members of the agency, Jamie must attempt to save his mother from a terrifyingly powerful vampire.

My Review
I saw a copy of this in my local book shop ages ago and decided I would buy it. It was on sale and sounded like the sort of thing I would enjoy, but it has sat on my shelf ever since. Until I knew Will Hill was going to be at YALC, then I decided I had to try to read it so I could meet him.
I only started it the day before the convention as I had to finish the book I was already reading and I only got 100 pages into it, but in that first 100 pages I was hooked, the characters seemed to come to life off the page and I immediately felt connected and wanted to know more. 
I met Will Hill and he was very nice, friendly and we had a brief chat. He signed my book and I got a picture with him. It was awesome, and I knew I wanted to read the rest.
Unfortunately I have had a bit of a block lately, I just haven't been able to concentrate on reading, and it's not this book. I even tried re-reading some of my favourite books, and books from series I know I love, but nothing was working. 
However I had a break through yesterday and seem to be getting back into my reading swing, so I sat down tonight (as I had an evening in) and finished this book. I have also read 100 pages of book 2 already. :)
Department 19 is a secret organisation that trains operatives to hunt down supernatural beings, mostly vampires. Jamie thought he was an ordinary boy but when his dad is killed and his mum goes missing he starts to question everything and then he meets a large man named Frankenstein who introduces him to the Department and all it involves. His life changes for ever.
This book mixes fantasy with history and folklore. Dracula and Van Helsing appear in the story and play a vital part in the events. I liked the mix of old legends and new, it works really well and makes you feel like there is more to the story, more to discover. That the characters actually have a history. It somehow made it feel more realistic and believable. 
I think my favourite character is Larissa though, she is a vampire but also way more than that and she plays an important role in Jamie's life. She has a no nonsense attitude and puts on a tough front, but you do see her moments of weakness and doubts and how she fights through them, which just makes her all the more kick ass. 
There is quite a lot of violence in the book and also a fair bit of gore - descriptions of blood and guts. So younger readers should be aware. But although I am a bit of a wimp, I didn't find it too bad, in fact I was kind of captivated, totally hooked into the story, so it didn't bother me as much.
I am glad I picked up this book, and I can't wait to find out what happens to Jamie and the others.

My Rating

     

Book Review - The One

Title: The One
Author: Kiera Cass
Series: The Selection (book 3)
Publisher: Harper Collins Children's Books
Release Date: 5 Jun 2014
ISBN-13: 978-0007466719

Synopsis
For the four girls who remain at the palace, the friendships they’ve formed, rivalries they’ve struggled with and dangers they’ve faced have bound them to each other for the rest of their lives.
Now, the time has come for one winner to be chosen.
America never dreamed she would find herself anywhere close to the crown – or to Prince Maxon’s heart. But as the competition approaches its end and the threats outside the palace walls grow more vicious, America realises just how much she stands to lose – and how hard she’ll have to fight for the future she wants.

My Review
*squeals... I have been waiting for this book for soooo long! So when it finally came through in the library for me, nice and shiny and new I couldn't wait to get stuck in. This was going to be EPIC. Never mind the fact that I am already in the middle of 2 other books, they immediately got pushed to the side so I could start this one. 
THIS REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS! 

 
America is now in the final four in the Selection process, Maxon is coming closer to making his choice. One girl will be his Princess, the other three will be sent home. But with the threat of Rebel attacks on the Kingdom he has to try and do what is best for his country. As his love for America deepens things get more difficult, but America is still torn between Maxon and Aspen. Her heart says one thing and her head says another. The King certainly doesn't approve of America and is trying to get her kicked out of the runnings. 
I had so many expectations for this book, and I knew who I wanted Maxon to pick and there were questions I needed to have answered, and I am pleased to say it gave me all I wanted and more. This book was sooo good, I could not put it down and when I had to, I just wanted a chance to get back to it.
Celeste, Kriss, America and Elise are in the final four, I never liked Celeste but you see so much more of her in this book and out of all of them she has the most character development which I was actually pleasantly surprised by. Kriss and Elise were never particularly strong contenders in my view, but you see more of how and why they got this far and although I still didn't root for them, I could appreciate them more.
There are a lot of twists in this book that I just did not expect and every single one of them made me want to keep reading even more. I had to know what would happen. This book will make you have so many emotions, i would laugh, cry, gasp in shock and get angry all in the space of a few pages, everything is just so emotive and well written that you really feel for the characters.
I am trying not to give too much away, but oh my goodness that ending - That ENDING!?!?! I still can't quite believe it or catch my breath, just what, how, huh!? Totally awesome, I am sorry the deaths, and much more upset about one of them than I thought I would be, just :O  I can't even speak!
If you have read the other 2 books (The Selection and The Elite) then this is a must read. If you haven't - get the whole series and get reading. It's a must!
Totally AMAZING!!!!
So sad it's over, I want more, I'm not ready to say goodbye to this world yet.

My Rating

  

Book Review - Mrs Frisby and the Rats of Nimh

Title: Mrs Frisby & the Rats of Nimh
Author: Robert C O'Brien
Publisher: Puffin Classics
Release Date: 6 Oct 1994 (first published 1st January 1971)
ISBN-13: 978-0140366143

Synopsis
Mrs. Frisby, a widowed mouse with four small children, must move her family to their summer quarters immediately, or face almost certain death. But her youngest son, Timothy, lies ill with pneumonia and must not be moved. Fortunately, she encounters the rats of NIMH, an extraordinary breed of highly intelligent creatures, who come up with a brilliant solution to her dilemma.


My Review
I read this book as a child and I always remembered loving it. For years if you asked me what my all time favourite book was I probably would have said this one, something about this book just captured my imagination and stuck a chord with me. So when I was looking for a book to give my children's book group at work I thought of this one. I wanted something different and a bit older no vampires, aliens, hero dogs or diaries and this book came to mind.
In order to run the discussion properly I decided to re-read the books, after all it must be at least 10 years if not more since I last read it. I was a bit worried that I wouldn't enjoy the book as much and it would ruin my happy memories of it but I sat down and got stuck in.
The first few pages I was a bit hesitant, it didn't grab me straight away and it seemed my fear was coming to light, but thankfully after a few more pages I felt that familiar pull and warmth that comes from reading a great book and I was once more lost in Mrs Frisby's world.
Mrs Frisby is a field mouse, she has 4 children and is currently living in an old cement brick partially buried in Mr Fitzgibbon's farm. It has served them well as a winter home but she knows that as soon as spring comes the Farmer will need to plough the field to sow his seeds and her little home will be dug up. Preparing for moving day is hard but then her youngest son Timothy falls ill, there is no way he can travel in his condition so Mrs Frisby has to find an alternative. This is when she is introduced to the Rats and learns about their fascinating past and the amazing things they can do. They aren't ordinary rats, but super intelligent rats who come up with a fabulous solution to Mrs Frisby's problem. But where did these rats come from and why do they seem to know Mrs Frisby and her late husband.
I love the set up of this book and the range of magnificent characters, right from Jeremy the daft crow, to Nicodemus the head Rat and Dr Ages a mouse with skills and knowledge in medicine.They each play there part and help to shape the story.
This is a book filled with wonder and a certain sort of magic - I don't mean the kind with wands and spells, but the kind that allows you to believe that anything is possible.
I would recommend this to adults and children alike - in fact I think this would be a great book to share. I'm so glad I still loved it after all this time and have just found out that the author's daughter wrote a sequel so I will definitely be looking that up.

My Rating

     

Book Review - Resist

Title: Resist
Author: Sarah Crossan
Series: Breathe (Book 2)
Publisher: Bloomsbury Childrens
Release Date: 10 Oct 2013 
ISBN-13: 978-1408827208

Synopsis
The sequel—and conclusion—to Sarah Crossan's Breathe. Three teen outlaws must survive on their own in a world without air, exiled outside the glass dome that protects what's left of human civilization.

Bea, Alina, and Quinn are on the run. They started a rebellion and were thrown out of the pod, the only place where there's enough oxygen to breathe. Bea has lost her family. Alina has lost her home. And Quinn has lost his privileged life. Can they survive in the perilous Outlands? Can they finish the revolution they began? Especially when a young operative from the pod's Special Forces is sent after them. Their only chance is to stand together, even when terrible circumstances force them apart. When the future of human society is in danger, these four teens must decide where their allegiances lie. 

My Review
I read book 1 in this series a year ago and I remember devouring it and loving it, so when I heard book 2 was coming out I was desperate to read it. However I couldn't get hold of a copy so had to order it through the library, then by the time I got it I had forgotten a lot of what happened in book 1. I started to read this book and just thought 'who is Alina and why is she on a boat?' so i decided to quickly re-read book 1. (I haven't re-written a review for that one because I had pretty much the same reaction as last time - i still loved it, so that first review still stands hehe)
So then straight onto Resist. The pod is starting to fall, Bea is on the run, Quinn is out there too, escaping from the riots and Alina is trying to make her way to the only place left that could help - Sequoia. But things aren't always what they seem and soon the 3 of them are fighting against something bigger than any of them could have imagined and the enemies don't always come from where you expect.
This book is actually the second and final part of the Breathe 'series', but when I had finished I was desperate for more. Sure the storyline is wrapped up enough that the majority of questions are answered and there aren't really any lose ends, but it's one of those books that just pulls you in so much and makes you connect with the characters that you can't bear to say goodbye. I was desperately hoping there would be another one in the series just so I can go back and spend more time in that world and see what would come next.
This book is told from Bea, Quinn Alina and Ronan. And I felt like I connected with each one, Ronan was a nice addition and gave an extra dimension to the story, another side to view it from. I think Bea is and always will be my favourite character though - indecisive at times, a bit nervous but willing to fight for the right thing and tough when needed. She's feisty and I can relate to her quite a lot.
There were some questions left unanswered which I am not entirely happy with, but overall Crossan does such a good job with the story, plot, characters, and general feel of the book that I can't help but love it.
I will definitely be buying copies of both book 1 and 2 when I can afford it as I know I will be reading them again, they are that addictive. 
Sarah Crossan is coming to London in July to a big author event at the 'London Film and Comic Con' and I am trying to get the day off so I can go. Would be awesome to meet her, have so many things to ask her. Will probably have to pick my one burning question though. But after reading this book I am all the more excited to see her.
This is a series I highly recommend - fast paced, action packed and moving a story you won't be able to forget.

My Rating

    

Book Review - Someday, Someday, Maybe

Title: Someday, Someday, Maybe
Author: Lauren Graham
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Release Date: 30 April 2013
ISBN-13: 978-0345532749

Synopsis
Franny Banks is a struggling actress in New York City, with just six months left of the three year deadline she gave herself to succeed. But so far, all she has to show for her efforts is a single line in an ad for ugly Christmas sweaters and a degrading waitressing job. She lives in Brooklyn with two roommates-Jane, her best friend from college, and Dan, a sci-fi writer, who is very definitely not boyfriend material-and is struggling with her feelings for a suspiciously charming guy in her acting class, all while trying to find a hair-product cocktail that actually works.
Meanwhile, she dreams of doing "important" work, but only ever seems to get auditions for dishwashing liquid and peanut butter commercials. It's hard to tell if she'll run out of time or money first, but either way, failure would mean facing the fact that she has absolutely no skills to make it in the real world. Her father wants her to come home and teach, her agent won't call her back, and her classmate Penelope, who seems supportive, might just turn out to be her toughest competition yet.

My Review
I have been a massive fan of the TV show 'The Gilmore Girls' for years and so when I heard that the actress that plays Laurelie Gilmore had written a book I knew I would have to read it. So I put an order in for it at the library and waited it's arrival. It took ages to come in and I had a massive pile of books by then so I admit it's been in my cupboard for a while. But someone else has requested it so as I have a couple of days off for Easter weekend I decided now was the time.
Franny Banks set herself a target - 3 years in New York to become a successful actress, no longer. If she doesn't succeed by then she would move back home. The story starts with 6 months left of her 3 year challenge and all she has to show for her troubles is a commercial for Christmas jumpers. Can she turn everything round in 6 months, and finally catch her break or should she just give up now. Follow Franny as she struggles with casting calls, agents, boyfriends and rival actresses, no one said it would be easy but does everything have to be this hard?
I liked Franny as a character, she was funny, witty and a bit hopeless. A bit clumsy and always seeming to do and say the wrong thing. She has no real idea of how good she is, always putting herself down and fighting along. But no matter how bad things seem to get she still struggles on and refuses to give up. She actually reminded me of myself a bit, apart from the fact I'm not trying to be an actress, hehe.
For a first time novel I was very impressed, it was well written and captivating, I found it hard to put it down and ended up reading it pretty much in one go. I wanted to know what would become of Franny and I felt my heart go out to her, I desperately wanted her to succeed, she had my backing and I wanted to see it through. The only time she irritated me was her choice in men, I was desperate for her to wake up and see the one in front of her and dump the egotistical pig that everyone fawns over.
This story will have you rooting for Franny and you'll be laughing throughout. Every character, no matter how minor plays an important part and really sets the world of the book. I felt like I knew these people.
For a fairly light-hearted, enjoyable read I would recommend this book, it's fun and will have you turning the pages quicker as you absorb every word. I am impressed by Lauren Graham's work and hope she does more in the future.

My Rating

     

Book Review - Sentient

Title: Sentient
Author: Kenechi Udogu
Series: The Mentalist (book 2)
Publisher: CreateSpace
Release Date: 6 Nov 2013
ISBN-13: 978-1493518692

Synopsis
Mastering her Progressive Empath abilities isn’t going as well as Gemma hoped. In fact, months after finding out what she really is, she still has no clue what this truly means. All she can do is wait to see if any new abilities will eventually manifest. Things aren’t going great with Russ either. Unsure of how to handle her Sentient Link with him, she tries to integrate herself in his busy social life but struggles to adjust to her new circumstances.

When she is plagued by recurring nightmares, Gemma realises things are changing and knows she has to do something, fast. The arrival of two sets of strangers in town, both offering the much needed assistance she needs to unearth her powers, escalates the situation even further. Gemma attempts to decipher whose intentions are genuine, but does she have enough time to figure out who has her best interest at heart?

My Review
I read book 1 in this series in February last year, I will admit that I have had this one on my reader since October but I just haven't had time to get round to it. However I took my e-reader with me on holiday and had a couple of hours in the airport to waste so I flicked open my reader and looked at what I had. This was next in my queue so I dug in. 
As it's been more than a year since I read the first I was worried that I wouldn't remember who any of the characters were or have any idea what was going on, but fortunately I was immediately absorbed by the story and some details started coming back to me. I wasn't confused at all thank goodness.
At only 165 pages this is quite a short story but once again Kenechi has managed to pack quite a lot in to the story that makes it gripping and exciting. We come back to Gemma who is still trying to figure out her powers and what makes her different from other Averters. Her Dad has gone into hiding as he is still being chased and a new girl turns up claiming to be a friend and tutor, but Gemma doesn't know who to trust.
I liked the new girl Laura, and the fact you weren't sure whether to trust her or not keeps you on the edge of your seat, but I liked her and hoped she would turn out good.
I felt drawn back into the world and I didn't want to leave until I knew what would come of the characters. I think this is set for at least one more book as there isn't a real conclusion to this book but there is a major development and I look forward to seeing what comes next. 
The characters are well developed and seem realistic, I could picture myself alongside them in the story. A fun, exciting read that will leave you wanting more.

My Rating

    

Book Review - Witch in Winter

Title: Witch In Winter
Author: Ruth Warburton
Series: Winter Trilogy (book 1)
Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
Release Date: 5 Jan 2012
ISBN-13: 978-1444904697

Synopsis
Anna Winterson doesn't know she's a witch and would probably mock you for believing in magic, but after moving to the small town of Winter with her father, she learns more than she ever wanted to about power. When Anna meets Seth, she is smitten, but when she enchants him to love her, she unwittingly amplifies a deadly conflict between two witch clans and splits her own heart in two. She wants to love Seth, to let him love her—but if it is her magic that's controlling his passion, then she is as monstrous as the witch clan who are trying to use her amazing powers for their own gain. When love is tangled up in magic, how do you know what's real?

My Review
I requested this ages ago after seeing some good reviews for it, then I heard it was a trilogy so I waited until all 3 books were out. Then they still sat on my shelf for months. I think I've renewed these books about 20 times at the library, I almost gave them back but every time I tried something would stop me. I knew I wanted to read them so I kept putting them back on my to be read shelf. I was scanning my shelves trying to decide what to read next last week and this jumped out at me so I put it in my bag. I was then out all weekend so it stayed there, but I have been ill this week with Bronchitis and had a 40 minute wait at the doctors so I started to read this and I was instantly hooked. When my name was called I didn't want to put it down. I got home from work today (yes I've still been at work) and sat to read for an hour. Well, 2 and a bit hours later I was still sat there and just finishing it, I just couldn't put it down.
Anna and her father move to Winter leaving her friends and the busy London life behind them. The old creepy house isn't what Anna is used to but she's willing to grin and bear it for the fresh start her Dad is trying hard to get. Starting at a new school at her age is always going to be hard and she makes an instant bad impression on the popular girl. And when she finds an old 'magic book', she tries a spell with some of her new friends, not believing in magic she thinks it can't hurt - right? BUt when the spell works - very well, Anna is in trouble, how can she release him from his obsession, and will she ever be able to believe that his love is real and not a spell. Mix in some magic rivalry and old grudges things start to get messy quickly.
I don't know what it was about this book that made me keep reading, Anna is a great character, she doesn't want to give up or let anyone else take the risks for her but I also found her slightly annoying. There were odd little things that annoyed me a bit, such as the massive fight she has with her dad - once it's over it's never mentioned again, but the things they said would have a backlash. Caroline attacks Anna and warns her to stay away from Seth or she'll regret it but then seems to fade into a background character that is hardly mentioned. And lots of secrets and hints about the witches and their community are hinted at but never fully revealed - I don't know, maybe some of these things will be resolved later in the series. The ending/big fight also seemed very sudden and thrown together a bit to climax the story and make an impressive ending, but even so it was done fairly well.
Despite the niggles I did still find myself enjoying the story and wanting to know what would happen next, it's the sort of book you can't put down but you're not sure why. And yes I do have book 2 next to me ready to read, I just have to know what comes next. This book is seriously addictive. 
If you are looking for a exciting, easy read then this book is for you, definitely worth picking up

My Rating

    

Book Review: Skulduggery Pleasant - Last Stand of Dead Men (Re-Read)

Title: Last Stand of Dead Men
Author: Derek Landy
Series: Skulduggery Pleasant (book 8)
Publisher: Harper Collins Children's Books
Release Date: 29 Aug 2013
ISBN-13: 978-0007489206

Synopsis
War has finally come.
But it's not a war between good and evil, or light and dark – it's a war between Sanctuaries. For too long, the Irish Sanctuary has teetered on the brink of world-ending disaster, and the other Sanctuaries around the world have had enough. Allies turn to enemies, friends turn to foes, and Skulduggery and Valkyrie must team up with the rest of the Dead Men if they're going to have any chance at all of maintaining the balance of power and getting to the root of a vast conspiracy that has been years in the making.
But while this war is only beginning, another war rages within Valkyrie herself. Her own dark side, the insanely powerful being known as Darquesse, is on the verge of rising to the surface. And if Valkyrie slips, even for a moment, then Darquesse will burn the world and everyone in it.

My Review
I read and reviewed this back in September just after it had been released and said that I was really disappointed with it. But I knew it was my own problem, I wasn't in the mood, I didn't have enough time to read it and I hadn't read the earlier books in the series for quite a while so I wasn't entirely sure what was going on at various points. I swore to re-read it sometime and that time has come. 
I started by listening to the rest of the series on spoken word which was awesome. Although the guy who reads the first 2 or 3 is EPICALLY good, he does all the voices and really gets into the story, then it changes to someone else and it wasn't as good, the voice just fell flat. Then someone else takes over and whilst it's not as good as the first he does a pretty decent job. Slightly off topic - but certainly worth a listen to. 
So once I was up to date with the series again and really into it all I grabbed my copy of this book and dived in once more. And I am totally thrilled to say that this time I really enjoyed it. I still ended up reading it in bits (lunch breaks at work etc) but I found myself wanting to get stuck in and read more. It seemed exciting to me again, and yes whilst I knew what was going to happen and who was going to die I still found myself turning pages in anticipation and dread. This time the whole book had a different feel to it, the way SP always used to feel to me, the raw emotion, the excitement, the banter between characters, the destruction and mania. It was all there, everything I remember loving about the series.
I still can't believe we are nearing the end, and I still can't believe some of the characters he killed - how dare he! Derek Landy is playing with our emotions!
I am so glad I gave this book another chance, it's strange how much circumstance and mood can affect the way you enjoy a book.
I am now eagerly awaiting book 9 - the final book! Whose title was released today, and it shall be called "Skulduggery Pleasant: The Dying of the Light". I can't wait - it comes out the day before my birthday too - PERFECT!
Once more the world makes sense - well as much as it ever did. I read the book and loved it, phew!
I'm sorry I ever doubted you Derek.

My Rating

   

Book Review - Arch Enemy

Title: Arch Enemy
Author: Frank Beddor
Series: The Looking Glass Wars (book 3)
Publisher: Egmont
Release Date: 1st October 2009
ISBN13: 9781405251938

Synopsis
The battle for Wonderland has come to a head and the Heart Crystal's power has been depleted thanks to King Arch's devastating weapon, WILMA. Imagination has been wiped from the land and the people of Wonderland have lost their greatest asset. Most alarmingly, even Queen Alyss is without her powers as her Queendom hangs in the balance. 


My Review
I read the first two books in the series quite quickly and really enjoyed them, I started this one but for multiple reasons I haven't had much time to read over the last week or so so this got put to the side. I had a day off today so decided to finish it. 
Alyss and Redd are still at war but now they also have a common enemy - Arch. Determined to take over and make Wonderland into a Kingdom he disables the Heart Crystal rendering Alyss and Redd's powers useless. 
Alyss must try to defeat Arch and get rid of Redd before all of Wonderland is lost forever.
I was expecting great things from this book after the first two and I wanted it to answer all my questions and I don't know just be exciting. I have to admit I was a little disappointed. The plot felt very disjointed to me, it would move from one scenario and character to another, back and forth and I found myself losing interest and forgetting what was going on. I would just get into part of it and it would change to something else. Not only that but it felt more complicated than it needed to be, I started to get bored, I just wanted the book to get on with it. Normally I will sit and read a book and look at teh page numbers and be like 'wow I've read over 100 pages already' but with this one I would look and be like 'has it really only been 30 pages!' It just seemed to be really slow and at times I had to make myself keep reading.
Overall the story isn't bad and it does resolve 99% of events and character questions but I just feel like it could have been done a lot quicker and with less interruptions.
Good if you want to finish the series, but a bit disappointing in my opinion.

My Rating

     

Book Review - The Long Song (Audiobook)

Title: The Long Song
Author: Andrea Levy
Publisher: Headline Review
Release Date: 4 Feb 2010
ISBN-13: 978-0755359400 (book)
ISBN-13: 978-0755384006 (audio)
Read by: Adrian Lester and Andrea Levy

Synopsis 
The child of a field slave on the Amity sugar plantation in Jamaica, July lives with her mother until Mrs. Caroline Mortimer, a recently transplanted English widow, decides to move her into the great house and rename her “Marguerite.”

Resourceful and mischievous, July soon becomes indispensable to her mistress. Together they live through the bloody Baptist war, followed by the violent and chaotic end of slavery. Taught to read and write so that she can help her mistress run the business, July remains bound to the plantation despite her “freedom.” It is the arrival of a young English overseer, Robert Goodwin, that will dramatically change life in the great house for both July and her mistress. Prompted and provoked by her son’s persistent questioning, July’s resilience and heartbreak are gradually revealed in this extraordinarily powerful story of slavery, revolution, freedom, and love. 

My Review
I have been listening to audiobooks in my car for months now and I love it, being told a story as I drive round is great. I listened to all of the Harry Potter's and then the Skulduggery Pleasant series, so mainly old favourites and books I wanted to re-read but didn't have the time for. Then I got to a point where my next book of choice hadn't arrived and I had nothing to listen to, my colleague at work pulled this off the shelf and said it was a really good book and that I should give it a go, so I did.
When I first started to listen to it I really wasn't sure, it's nothing like my usual kind of book and I wasn't sure if I would get on with it, but I decided to give it a fair try and my other book still hadn't arrived so I stuck with it.
This book follows first Miss Kitty as she works in the fields and then gives birth to a baby girl. From then on the story follows little July, who works by her mother's side in the fields until one day when she is 12 the new owner's sister arrives and decides she wants her as a house slave and takes her away. Brought up alongside Miss Mortimer, July learns to read and write and has some privileges other slaves don't have.
To be honest I didn't really know an awful lot about slave movements or Jamaica in general, but this story crafts the setting and events well and is actually quite a gripping tale. I don't know what it is that made me want to keep listening but I couldn't stop.
The book is read by the author herself on the audiobook and so she obviously knows how it should be read, she reads it in the proper accents, Jamaican being the main one but she does do quite a good English accent for Caroline Mortimer. She has one of those voices you can't help but listen to.
I certainly would never have picked this by choice and I don't think I would ever re-read it, but I did enjoy the story nd am glad my colleague recommended it. 
It does have a lot of serious issues in it; slavery, love, murder, suicide, war etc but it is aimed at adults and none of it is over the top. 
If you are looking for something a bit historical or cultural then this is a good book and a worthwhile read.

My Rating

I would maybe rate this slightly above average, so Average +