Hey there, bibliophiles! Just a quick announcement!
All further reviews and book news/updates can be found on my new website the blabbing bibliophile. Head over there for the latest posts and more reading suggestions! I hope you enjoy the space!
Showing posts with label blogging. Show all posts
Showing posts with label blogging. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
Thursday, May 12, 2016
A Bookish Announcement!
Good morning, bibliophiles, and happy (almost) Friday! First off, I had my 100th bookish post the other day, and I was so anxious to get to the review, that I didn't even notice until two days later. Shame on me. I'm kind of blown away that I've written so many posts already. It feels like such a short time ago (and I guess, in a sense, it was) that I chose to even start a blog. I've had several fun and interesting experiences since I began this little space, and I can only hope to keep the momentum going and expand onwards and upwards!
Today, however, I can finally get you all up to speed on some of the updates that I've been working on behind the scenes. I've had a few projects in the works, that will be coming to you all soon, but the one I'm most excited about is the launch of my website.
As of midnight last night/this morning, it's officially official! I have finally launched and you can now visit The Blabbing Bibliophile ! It's not quite where I want it just yet, but I built it all on my own and I plan to add more and update as often as I can. For now, I hope you enjoy browsing and telling a few friends so we can spread the literary love!
Thanks for joining and sticking with me on this hobby I've slowly turned into a journey. It's taken on a life of its own and I can't wait to see where it leads all of us next!! Until next time, happy reading! xx
PS- please feel free to leave comments or send me e-mails with feedback telling me things you'd like to see on the site! I'd adore suggestions so I can keep improving the space!
Today, however, I can finally get you all up to speed on some of the updates that I've been working on behind the scenes. I've had a few projects in the works, that will be coming to you all soon, but the one I'm most excited about is the launch of my website.
As of midnight last night/this morning, it's officially official! I have finally launched and you can now visit The Blabbing Bibliophile ! It's not quite where I want it just yet, but I built it all on my own and I plan to add more and update as often as I can. For now, I hope you enjoy browsing and telling a few friends so we can spread the literary love!
Thanks for joining and sticking with me on this hobby I've slowly turned into a journey. It's taken on a life of its own and I can't wait to see where it leads all of us next!! Until next time, happy reading! xx
PS- please feel free to leave comments or send me e-mails with feedback telling me things you'd like to see on the site! I'd adore suggestions so I can keep improving the space!
Tuesday, May 10, 2016
The Crown (The Selection #5)- A Review
Hey, everyone! Two reviews in less than 24 hours. Who knew? Today, I'm reviewing The Crown which is book five (and the final installment) in The Selection series by Kiera Cass. I binged on these books last month thinking that The Crown was already out in stores. When I got closer to the end of the books I already had, and found out it wasn't being released until May 3rd, I was beyond mad at myself. I had to wait a few weeks on a cliffhanger to find out what the fate of Eadlyn, her family, and their kingdom would be. Needless to say, when Amazon dropped this puppy off at my house on release day, I couldn't wait to dive in, so, here we are! To read my compiled review on books #1-4 along with their novellas, you can go here.
I was very pleased once I had gotten to the last page in The Crown. I'm so glad Eadlyn finally matured beyond what she was in The Heir. Between books four and five, she blossomed and opened her eyes to her people and to a love like the one her parents shared.
I have to admit, after five books and four novellas, I got a bit teary saying goodbye to these characters. We parted on fantastic terms, but coming to the end was bittersweet.
I couldn't decide which man would be best suited to the future queen of Illéa out of the Elite in the Selection. I liked each individual of the final six for different reasons and at points, I wanted her to choose all of them because I hated seeing them go. Ean and Hale were charming and protective, Kile became the most unlikely of friends and companions, Fox was a gentleman, Gunner was a constant source of support, and Henri was too precious for words. Eric (aka Eikko), Henri's translator also served a level of importance. I adored each and every one of these boys and what they each brought to the table when it came to their queen.
However, when it became obvious where her heart was directing her, I wanted to scream at her to start breaking rules and tradition, otherwise there may not be a happily ever after. I'm glad other voices in her circle felt the same.
Having to choose between true love and duty or obligation was absolutely nerve-wracking. I devoured this book so I could get answers for my own sanity and know where both Eadlyn's future and the fate of Illéa would lie. What a ride it was! I was unsure about picking up this series in the beginning, but I'm not only glad that I did, but I'm thrilled I saw it through and got to experience such a charming story.
My Final Rating: four out of five stars
I was very pleased once I had gotten to the last page in The Crown. I'm so glad Eadlyn finally matured beyond what she was in The Heir. Between books four and five, she blossomed and opened her eyes to her people and to a love like the one her parents shared.
I have to admit, after five books and four novellas, I got a bit teary saying goodbye to these characters. We parted on fantastic terms, but coming to the end was bittersweet.
I couldn't decide which man would be best suited to the future queen of Illéa out of the Elite in the Selection. I liked each individual of the final six for different reasons and at points, I wanted her to choose all of them because I hated seeing them go. Ean and Hale were charming and protective, Kile became the most unlikely of friends and companions, Fox was a gentleman, Gunner was a constant source of support, and Henri was too precious for words. Eric (aka Eikko), Henri's translator also served a level of importance. I adored each and every one of these boys and what they each brought to the table when it came to their queen.
However, when it became obvious where her heart was directing her, I wanted to scream at her to start breaking rules and tradition, otherwise there may not be a happily ever after. I'm glad other voices in her circle felt the same.
Having to choose between true love and duty or obligation was absolutely nerve-wracking. I devoured this book so I could get answers for my own sanity and know where both Eadlyn's future and the fate of Illéa would lie. What a ride it was! I was unsure about picking up this series in the beginning, but I'm not only glad that I did, but I'm thrilled I saw it through and got to experience such a charming story.
My Final Rating: four out of five stars
Tuesday, April 26, 2016
The Bad Ones- A Review
| Hey hey hey out there to all of my bookworms and bibliophiles! Today, I bring you a new review! I took this weekend off from reading (well, Saturday and Sunday anyway) because it was just too hectic with life, and also, I watch my bookish shows on the weekend. Saturday is my Outlander night with some fellow Sassenachs of mine, and Sunday I lose my mind over Game of Thrones (which I still have yet to pick up and read as a series... guilty). Anywhoo, I got this book in the mail last week and I was actually waiting for Monday to arrive so I could get the time to pick up and start reading again. This is one I had seen all over my social media feeds accompanied by freak-outs from fellow reader friends of mine, so obviously I had to give it a go. It's The Bad Ones by Stylo Fantome. From the cover alone, I was a bit nervous going into the text, but I was also intrigued enough that I couldn't seem to stay away. Take Dexter, Bonnie & Clyde, and the murderers from Scream, and you've got The Bad Ones. I don't even know what to say about this story except that I lost sleep so I could finish it before I hit the hay. I couldn't leave myself in limbo. Right from the beginning, you know there's something not quite right with Dulcie or Constantine. She's in the guidance office of her high school being lectured about her future while he's conveniently found near the site of a burning car in the student lot. When they bump into each other in the middle of campus, it's clear that their future would be eternally entwined. I have never read a romance (if you actually want to call it that) quite so dark before. When one thinks of a "dark romance" you think of a couple trying to fight through issues so they can attempt a life of normalcy and happiness together. Not with these two. They're crazy and content to be so. If you've ever wondered if psychopaths could find love, this book will answer that question. On their own, they're disturbed at best, but together, they cause nothing but destruction. Although I couldn't understand them or their ways of thinking, I found myself itching to turn the pages to see what would happen next. They were such a twisted couple, that I couldn't seem to look away. They lived by raising hell and dealing with any obstructions to their lives together, and while their actions were so wrong, I couldn't bring myself to hope that they would get caught. I wanted to see what they could and couldn't get away with, and I was not disappointed! Maybe I need help if that's what I thought of these two. I shouldn't be cheering for the bad guys, but, sadly, I did, and I'm not sorry... My Final Rating: five out of five stars  |
Saturday, April 23, 2016
Love Letters to the Dead- A Review
Happy Saturday, bibliophiles! I hope you're all enjoying a lovely weekend discovering new worlds and new characters! I've been working on a few exciting projects that I plan to tell you about soon, but for now, I wanted to bring you my latest book review! Love Letters to the Dead is the debut novel from Ava Dellaira. I had noticed this book on a few of my B&N runs, but I finally decided to grab a copy on a binge haul.
This was an interesting take on trying to deal with loss. I admit, I was drawn to the stunning cover, but the story was intriguing as well.
Laurel has just lost her older sister, May, for reasons unknown to us, and relocated to another school. The unexpected passing of her much adored sibling left her family in tatters, and she's just trying to cope and find her way again. When her English teacher gives the students a project to write a letter to a dead person to turn in at the end of the class period, Laurel discovers an outlet for her thoughts.
Amelia Earhart, Kurt Cobain, Jim Morrison, Janis Joplin, Elizabeth Bishop, Heath Ledger, Alan Young, and a few others appear as recipients for Laurel's story. Through her letters, she is not only able to connect with the deceased and put her soul down on paper, but she's also able to come to terms with the night her sister left, and feelings she wasn't ready to handle.
While this is sold as a YA read, and readers get all the happenings of high school drama, we also understand how everyone deals differently with death. We meet friends of Laurel's and witness her day-to-day as she moves on, but we get the bigger story and her innermost thoughts, which, for me, was the focus of the story.
I adored this story. I've dealt with a tremendous amount of loss in my own life (unfortunately), so I was able to relate to Laurel quite a bit. The writing was stunning and read a little like poetry, so even though I was reading about death, there was something naturally beautiful woven into the pages as well.
Anyone who has not only had to cope with loss, but unexpected loss, should go pick up this book. It also looks like Ava is working on the screenplay for the movie adaptation, so we'll be seeing more of Laurel in the future!
My Final Rating: five out of five stars
This was an interesting take on trying to deal with loss. I admit, I was drawn to the stunning cover, but the story was intriguing as well.
Laurel has just lost her older sister, May, for reasons unknown to us, and relocated to another school. The unexpected passing of her much adored sibling left her family in tatters, and she's just trying to cope and find her way again. When her English teacher gives the students a project to write a letter to a dead person to turn in at the end of the class period, Laurel discovers an outlet for her thoughts.
Amelia Earhart, Kurt Cobain, Jim Morrison, Janis Joplin, Elizabeth Bishop, Heath Ledger, Alan Young, and a few others appear as recipients for Laurel's story. Through her letters, she is not only able to connect with the deceased and put her soul down on paper, but she's also able to come to terms with the night her sister left, and feelings she wasn't ready to handle.
While this is sold as a YA read, and readers get all the happenings of high school drama, we also understand how everyone deals differently with death. We meet friends of Laurel's and witness her day-to-day as she moves on, but we get the bigger story and her innermost thoughts, which, for me, was the focus of the story.
I adored this story. I've dealt with a tremendous amount of loss in my own life (unfortunately), so I was able to relate to Laurel quite a bit. The writing was stunning and read a little like poetry, so even though I was reading about death, there was something naturally beautiful woven into the pages as well.
Anyone who has not only had to cope with loss, but unexpected loss, should go pick up this book. It also looks like Ava is working on the screenplay for the movie adaptation, so we'll be seeing more of Laurel in the future!
My Final Rating: five out of five stars
Thursday, April 14, 2016
Scarred Souls (Raze #1 and Reap #2)- A Series Review
Happy Thursday, bibliophiles! Friday is upon us, and with its approach, I bring you all another book review! Get excited, because it's a good one AND it's a twofer! That's right, it's two books in one! I'm talking about the Scarred Souls series by Tillie Cole. I saw this book floating around on my Instagram feed and knew it would be one I had to pick up in my travels. It was just so pretty and had such an intriguing plot! Once I owned it and opened it, I just couldn't put it down.
I absolutely adored these stories! They were emotional, heartbreaking, and I could not possibly imagine what Luka and Naal had to go through in their young lives. It shattered me completely. Making anyone fight to the death is unimaginable, but making children take part in such a blood sport all but gave me a migraine to carry with me through the pages.
In Raze, we meet Luka, otherwise known as prisoner 818. He was taken to a gulag in Alaska for crimes he didn't commit when he was just a teenager. Trained to fight, and fight to kill, that's all he knows. It's when he's able to break out years later, that his life takes a turn.
His friends, family, and even his girl, Kisa, think him dead, but little do they know, he's been lurking in the streets and training for revenge on the people who put him away on false charges so many years ago. He's back and ready to Raze hell in order to get to his family, and the girl he's belonged to since birth.
Reap tells a vastly different story, but one that is still linked to the beloved Luka and dark days in a fighting ring. Naal is the son and heir of the Georgian Mafia, also a fighter, and a trained, drugged killer. Taken from his massacred family when he was just eight years old, he became the ideal prototype for a slew of experimental drugs given to him by his Master. His memories are wiped as are his emotions. He's simply a killing machine, a dog forced to obey his Master, prisoner 221.
Luka, who had been in the gulag with Naal's brother is on a mission to rescue him from the only life he can remember. Although their families are mortal enemies, (Luka Tolstoi of the Russian Bratva and Zaal Kostova of the Georgian Mafia) the brotherhood of survival in the death ring are stronger. Luka refuses to let Naal be forgotten.
When Naal is freed and detoxing from the black market drugs in his system, he meets Luka's sister, Talia, and his life takes a turn from anything he's ever been familiar with in the last twenty years. "You are...for me?" is a line that will make any girl's heart go pitter-patter. With the help of Talia, Zaal learns to recover and attempts to gain his life back. Surnames and a divide among their families won't keep these two apart. They're determined to see this through and be each other's missing half.
Scarred Souls were tales of survival, strength, war, determination, and undying, eternal love. While 818 and 221 might be trained killers, they become so much more. Their courage knows no bounds and stems from the unbreakable women who stand by their sides for better or worse.
If I'm not mistaken, I believe there is a third book coming in this series, entitled Ravage . Needless to say, I can NOT wait!
My Final Rating: five out of five stars
I absolutely adored these stories! They were emotional, heartbreaking, and I could not possibly imagine what Luka and Naal had to go through in their young lives. It shattered me completely. Making anyone fight to the death is unimaginable, but making children take part in such a blood sport all but gave me a migraine to carry with me through the pages.
In Raze, we meet Luka, otherwise known as prisoner 818. He was taken to a gulag in Alaska for crimes he didn't commit when he was just a teenager. Trained to fight, and fight to kill, that's all he knows. It's when he's able to break out years later, that his life takes a turn.
His friends, family, and even his girl, Kisa, think him dead, but little do they know, he's been lurking in the streets and training for revenge on the people who put him away on false charges so many years ago. He's back and ready to Raze hell in order to get to his family, and the girl he's belonged to since birth.
Reap tells a vastly different story, but one that is still linked to the beloved Luka and dark days in a fighting ring. Naal is the son and heir of the Georgian Mafia, also a fighter, and a trained, drugged killer. Taken from his massacred family when he was just eight years old, he became the ideal prototype for a slew of experimental drugs given to him by his Master. His memories are wiped as are his emotions. He's simply a killing machine, a dog forced to obey his Master, prisoner 221.
Luka, who had been in the gulag with Naal's brother is on a mission to rescue him from the only life he can remember. Although their families are mortal enemies, (Luka Tolstoi of the Russian Bratva and Zaal Kostova of the Georgian Mafia) the brotherhood of survival in the death ring are stronger. Luka refuses to let Naal be forgotten.
When Naal is freed and detoxing from the black market drugs in his system, he meets Luka's sister, Talia, and his life takes a turn from anything he's ever been familiar with in the last twenty years. "You are...for me?" is a line that will make any girl's heart go pitter-patter. With the help of Talia, Zaal learns to recover and attempts to gain his life back. Surnames and a divide among their families won't keep these two apart. They're determined to see this through and be each other's missing half.
Scarred Souls were tales of survival, strength, war, determination, and undying, eternal love. While 818 and 221 might be trained killers, they become so much more. Their courage knows no bounds and stems from the unbreakable women who stand by their sides for better or worse.
If I'm not mistaken, I believe there is a third book coming in this series, entitled Ravage . Needless to say, I can NOT wait!
My Final Rating: five out of five stars
Monday, April 11, 2016
Crossfire- A Series Review
Good evening, bibliophiles! Two posts in one day? What is happening? It's me trying to catch up on the blog posts I want to bring to all of you. I've been slacking, so here's hoping I can start to get back on schedule.
Tonight, I'm pretty excited because I'm finally bringing you one of my favorite series I've ever read! The books tonight were some of my first real glimpses at the romance genre, and I basically got sucked in afterwards. I'm talking about the Crossfire series by the one and only, Sylvia Day. I read the trilogy over three years ago, and waited for books four and five to be released before properly reviewing the complete set. Needless to say, that day is finally here! Let's delve into the world of Crossfire Industries, shall we?
Bared to You is where we first encounter the force that is Gideon Geoffrey Cross. He's brooding, isolated, and the master of his own universe, but little does he know, an encounter with a feisty blonde is going to change everything he's ever known.
Eva Tramell is a recent transplant to New York City from San Diego, California. Gideon Cross is the mogul of majority of Manhattan, one of the most eligible bachelors, and owner of Cross Industries. One day, when Eva takes a jog and visits where she'll be working as an administrative assistant to a massive advertising firm, she winds up in the lobby of the Crossfire, and in the path of one Gideon Cross. When they literally slam into each other, the ground shifts, and both of their worlds are forever turned upside down.
I just need to say that I am SO glad I met these two! To say I was obsessed with Gideon's intensity and Eva's strength right from the beginning is a total understatement. I had times when I wanted to keep Gideon in my own bed and other times, I was so angry with him that my heart broke...because I still loved him anyway. I can NOT get enough of this man or this couple!
If you want a sexy read similar to Fifty Shades but actually written well, I highly suggest this series!
My Final Rating: five out of five stars
Gideon and Eva.. Will this couple ever catch a break? They really do get hit from all angles in this book, but I love how fiercely they hold onto each other to try and get through every obstacle. After book three was done, I breathed a sigh of relief thinking that they got their happily ever after and were in the clear from turmoil, and I was 110% wrong on all counts.
I could NOT imagine what book five would bring, nor the television series! Sylvia could honestly write 20 books about Mr. Cross and I'd never tire of him, or his life with Eva. Now there's an idea!
I've adored this series since I first met Gideon and Eva back in 2013. These characters were absolute forces to be reckoned with, complete and total storms brewing, and I loved every tortured, agonizing, whiplash minute of their journey. From Bared To You all the way through to One With You, I've enjoyed seeing how this couple was able to grow and defeat not only their demons, but also every outside.
For roughly 80-85% of this book, I loved where it was going. I was so excited for everything the pair had coming their way for once. Loose ends were being settled and all the people who tried to tear these two apart were being put in their place. Gideon and Eva were waiting so long for their happily ever after, and I was thrilled they were finally on the same page and ready for the next chapter.
The four stars I decided on at the end are because when it comes to the couple themselves, they were perfection as always. I just love their dynamic, and I always have. I refuse to absolutely pan one of my favorite love stories just because of a choppy ending that I didn't picture in my head. No, I'm not happy with it, but I was immensely satisfied for so much of the overall series that I just don't have the heart to feel entirely crushed beyond repair.
I suppose I'll just wait and see what licensing brings to the tv series (whenever that hits the small screen), and in the meantime, I'll keep my fingers crossed for at least a novella of some sort, because I just need more of these two, even if it's only a sliver.
Tonight, I'm pretty excited because I'm finally bringing you one of my favorite series I've ever read! The books tonight were some of my first real glimpses at the romance genre, and I basically got sucked in afterwards. I'm talking about the Crossfire series by the one and only, Sylvia Day. I read the trilogy over three years ago, and waited for books four and five to be released before properly reviewing the complete set. Needless to say, that day is finally here! Let's delve into the world of Crossfire Industries, shall we?
Bared to You is where we first encounter the force that is Gideon Geoffrey Cross. He's brooding, isolated, and the master of his own universe, but little does he know, an encounter with a feisty blonde is going to change everything he's ever known.
Eva Tramell is a recent transplant to New York City from San Diego, California. Gideon Cross is the mogul of majority of Manhattan, one of the most eligible bachelors, and owner of Cross Industries. One day, when Eva takes a jog and visits where she'll be working as an administrative assistant to a massive advertising firm, she winds up in the lobby of the Crossfire, and in the path of one Gideon Cross. When they literally slam into each other, the ground shifts, and both of their worlds are forever turned upside down.
I just need to say that I am SO glad I met these two! To say I was obsessed with Gideon's intensity and Eva's strength right from the beginning is a total understatement. I had times when I wanted to keep Gideon in my own bed and other times, I was so angry with him that my heart broke...because I still loved him anyway. I can NOT get enough of this man or this couple!
If you want a sexy read similar to Fifty Shades but actually written well, I highly suggest this series!
My Final Rating: five out of five stars
Reflected in You means more Gideon, and more heartbreak! Mine was in my throat for such a chunk of this book and although I had faith in Eva and Gideon, I still worried nonstop.
When most couples are just starting out, their lives are like a fairy tale and everything is perfect. Gideon and Eva are not most couples, and I kind of admire them for it, because I just had a feeling in my gut that they'd fight for each other. Both of them have pasts consisting of abuse, and as two survivors, they must learn to navigate and build a life together, while also trying to banish their demons once and for all. It's when those pasts come back to haunt them, that all hell breaks loose, and they wind up on the brink of losing everything they've created as a couple.
What a sexy sequel. I couldn't put it down yet struggled with trying to pace myself just so I could spend more time with this amazing pair.
My Final Rating: five out of five stars
I love love loved the third installment in this series, Entwined With You!! I know some other reviews felt it was dragging when it didn't need to, but personally, I adored every second! With book two being the emotional rollercoaster that it was, it seemed like book three and their attempt at a happy ending wasn't possible. I'm so glad that us readers got something worthwhile after everything this couple had been through in their short time together.
I'm a total sucker for having all loose ends tied up and this did it and I STILL crave more of this couple. I know it seems pointless to keep going with this story to make books four and five, but I think since this series has been bought to be adapted for television, I could see it still going. Oh goodness, Gideon on my tv every week.. Now that makes a girl all warm and fuzzy inside. I can't wait!
My Final Rating: five out of five stars
I've waited over a year for more Gideon, and I finally got that with Captivated by You. Sylvia Day does NOT disappoint! I couldn't form words for this installment once I was done with it.
Gideon and Eva.. Will this couple ever catch a break? They really do get hit from all angles in this book, but I love how fiercely they hold onto each other to try and get through every obstacle. After book three was done, I breathed a sigh of relief thinking that they got their happily ever after and were in the clear from turmoil, and I was 110% wrong on all counts.
After a private vacation, the couple have a massive secret they're trying to keep under wraps and enjoy for a little while, but once they get back to Manhattan, it seems the world has turned against them, and their bubble of happiness bursts.
Gideon is a dream, as usual. I totally need one of my very own. He's fantastic, despite how shattered he has been throughout his life. Eva is such a good match for him, so I wish people would stop trying to destroy what they're trying to build together. I would personally enjoy some Cross babies next but who knows! I could NOT imagine what book five would bring, nor the television series! Sylvia could honestly write 20 books about Mr. Cross and I'd never tire of him, or his life with Eva. Now there's an idea!
My Final Rating: five out of five stars
The other day, book five, the last in the series, One With You was finally released. Despite a million interruptions, I finished it, and along with the bittersweet feeling of saying goodbye to this series, I'm also split in two on how I felt once I was finished. I'm sure most of you who have already read it may be wondering what I'm thinking once you see my final rating, but just hear me out. Honestly, I'll do my best to try to explain how my head is compartmentalizing aspects of this last installment.
I've adored this series since I first met Gideon and Eva back in 2013. These characters were absolute forces to be reckoned with, complete and total storms brewing, and I loved every tortured, agonizing, whiplash minute of their journey. From Bared To You all the way through to One With You, I've enjoyed seeing how this couple was able to grow and defeat not only their demons, but also every outside.
For roughly 80-85% of this book, I loved where it was going. I was so excited for everything the pair had coming their way for once. Loose ends were being settled and all the people who tried to tear these two apart were being put in their place. Gideon and Eva were waiting so long for their happily ever after, and I was thrilled they were finally on the same page and ready for the next chapter.
It was towards the end when a random situation with Monica (Eva's mother) happened that everything turned negative for me, and I wound up disappointed. It caused the ending to feel rushed and left too much up in the air and not quite as happy as one would imagine if you were Gideon or Eva.
Maybe it's because I hate endings (hello, guilty American here.. our shows and books go on for way too long), but if all that nonsense was going down out of the blue, the book could have ended there and then there could have been just one more story in the works. Having to crunch an ending into 50ish pages wasn't the way to go for me, and I was left a bit gobsmacked that after everything I went through with these two, that was all I would get as a way of tying everything up in a neat little bow. I'm trying to be okay with it, but for now, that ending along with the awareness of never having more Gideon and Eva in my life just leaves me feeling sad. If that makes sense.
The four stars I decided on at the end are because when it comes to the couple themselves, they were perfection as always. I just love their dynamic, and I always have. I refuse to absolutely pan one of my favorite love stories just because of a choppy ending that I didn't picture in my head. No, I'm not happy with it, but I was immensely satisfied for so much of the overall series that I just don't have the heart to feel entirely crushed beyond repair.
I suppose I'll just wait and see what licensing brings to the tv series (whenever that hits the small screen), and in the meantime, I'll keep my fingers crossed for at least a novella of some sort, because I just need more of these two, even if it's only a sliver.
My Final Rating: four out of five stars
Playing For Love and Beautiful: Cover Reveals Times Two!
Holy Moses, everyone! I apologize for slacking on posts this whole weekend. I just did NOT have a minute to bask in the excitement. What excitement, you ask? We have TWO new cover reveals, and I for one, am positively giddy!
Expanding the blog to incorporate not only reviews, but book hauls, cover reveals, TBRs, etc has already put me behind the eight ball. With work, an attempt at a sliver of a social life, tackling my pile of stories, and bringing posts for all occasions makes me feel like I'm already slacking (which I am). There are only so many hours in the day, but I hope to get to these posts as soon as I'm able.
Now that I've given a bit of a disclaimer, let's dive into the good stuff, shall we?
First up, we have Playing For Love from the one and only J.C. Grant. I reviewed her debut novel, Playing For Keeps a few months back, and needless to say, I'm beyond ready for more of the powerhouse that is David Taylor. BEWARE!!! This is an erotic romance, so read at your own risk!
COVER REVEAL
Playing For Love by J.CGrant
Release Date April 27th
Blurb:
Expanding the blog to incorporate not only reviews, but book hauls, cover reveals, TBRs, etc has already put me behind the eight ball. With work, an attempt at a sliver of a social life, tackling my pile of stories, and bringing posts for all occasions makes me feel like I'm already slacking (which I am). There are only so many hours in the day, but I hope to get to these posts as soon as I'm able.
Now that I've given a bit of a disclaimer, let's dive into the good stuff, shall we?
First up, we have Playing For Love from the one and only J.C. Grant. I reviewed her debut novel, Playing For Keeps a few months back, and needless to say, I'm beyond ready for more of the powerhouse that is David Taylor. BEWARE!!! This is an erotic romance, so read at your own risk!
COVER REVEAL
Playing For Love by J.CGrant
Release Date April 27th
Blurb:
David Taylor is the most possessive, dominant, alpha male I have ever met. Technically he's a stalker. He is bossy, needy, nasty, and so very sweet. He is everything I need him to be. I love him so much it scares me.
Austin James is mine.
Mine to take care of.
Mine to spoil.
MINE.
The first time I saw her, I knew she was MINE.
I saw a reflection of myself in her.
Broken. Damaged. Guarded.
I can't explain the depth of my feelings or why it happened so fast.
I just know she's mine and I'll do anything to keep her.
Add to your Goodreads TBR:
http://bit.ly/22cF7iq
Blurb:
The tenth work in the New York Times and #1 internationally bestselling series that started with Beautiful Bastard.
A new couple finds love, and the casts of the previous books join in to celebrate this series finale in the most Beautiful way possible.
"One free spirited Brit. One man weighed down by responsibility . . ....
(Also, a disorientatingly sweet Chloe, confused Bennett, grumpy Sara, Max as you know and love him, travel planner Hanna, chef Will, drunk Ruby, content Niall, George–oh, George–a rented van)
. . . and a whole lot of wine."
Austin James is mine.
Mine to take care of.
Mine to spoil.
MINE.
The first time I saw her, I knew she was MINE.
I saw a reflection of myself in her.
Broken. Damaged. Guarded.
I can't explain the depth of my feelings or why it happened so fast.
I just know she's mine and I'll do anything to keep her.
Add to your Goodreads TBR:
http://bit.ly/22cF7iq
Last, but not least, we have the fifth and last book in the Beautiful Bastard series by the amazing duo, Christina Lauren! I've read every single book in this series, plus all the in-between novellas. There are too many to link here, so peruse back through the blog to check out the reviews. It's not a series you want to miss out on at all!
Cover Reveal:
Beautiful, the last book in the Beautiful Series by Christina Lauren has a cover!!! I am all but jumping up and down in my office!
Blurb:
The tenth work in the New York Times and #1 internationally bestselling series that started with Beautiful Bastard.
A new couple finds love, and the casts of the previous books join in to celebrate this series finale in the most Beautiful way possible.
"One free spirited Brit. One man weighed down by responsibility . . ....
(Also, a disorientatingly sweet Chloe, confused Bennett, grumpy Sara, Max as you know and love him, travel planner Hanna, chef Will, drunk Ruby, content Niall, George–oh, George–a rented van)
. . . and a whole lot of wine."
Preorder:http://amzn.to/1XrmqGq
I'm seriously so damn pumped for these books to hit the shelves! More awesome contemporary romances with alpha males to add to the book boyfriends list! I can't wait to share reviews with all of you after I get my paws on these two!
Saturday, April 9, 2016
All Things Outlander Appreciation Post!
Good evening to all my bonnie lads and lasses out there! As you all very well ken (or at least I hope you do), we’re on the eve of the Outlander season two premiere (in my neck of the woods at least) and Droughtlander will officially be over! Let us rejoice!!! Fans of both the acclaimed novels and the television series have been chomping at the bit, myself among them, and I can’t wait to see how Dragonfly In Amber will be adapted for the small screen!
With the excitement looming and buzzing in the air, I’ve decided to create an appreciation post of sorts for all things in the Outlander universe, and formally thank Diana Gabaldon for the start of it all, her miraculous novels. Disclaimer: no, I’m not doing this because I’m a massive Whovian (fan of Doctor Who) and her concept stemmed from an old episode of the show, but that isn’t detracting from how much I want to shower this woman with praise for capturing me with her novels and inventive story. Bravo and massive brownie points, Gabaldon!
Last summer, I took on the immense task of all eight of these books, and binged on the show as I read. After book one, I watched all sixteen episodes so I could compare the pages to my tv screen, and I was nowhere near disappointed. I was positively hooked. You can read my reviews of every novel here:
My journey with these books took me roughly seven-eight weeks to finish. I began Outlander in the middle of June, and finished Written In My Own Heart’s Blood going into the second weekend in September, and I’ve been overwhelmed and overjoyed ever since.
Outlander tells the story of Claire Beauchamp Randall, a combat nurse at the end of World War II-1945. She’s reunited with her husband, Frank (a former solider and professor) and together, they journey to Inverness and the Highlands of Scotland to enjoy a second honeymoon. While reuniting and getting reacquainted, the couple take time to marvel at a set of standing stones the locals call Craig Na Dun. While exploring and studying the herbs and flowers scattered among the stones, Claire finds herself too close to one of the monoliths and winds up transported back in time to 1743, and in the middle of another war; the Jacobite rebellion. Scotland is at war with Britain to try to gain its independence, and they’re on the brink of the Battle of Culloden where majority of the Highlander culture was wiped out. Claire becomes entwined with clan MacKenzie, and eventually in the arms of one Jamie Fraser. Together, they must navigate the day-to-day, and adapt to not only each other, but a world that's changing rapidly around them. Circumstances lead the pair to an arranged marriage of sorts, and Claire not only finds herself torn between two different centuries, but the admiration and affection for two husbands as well.
Throughout all eight (and soon-to-be nine) novels, we spend decades with Jamie, Claire, and even Frank. Just when you think these stories have gone everywhere and covered every available landscape, Diana comes up with another direction that adds another facet to this universe. Personally, I never want my time with these characters to end. I know one day it will, but for now, I choose to ignore such possibilities.
Finishing these books (for now) left me positively speechless. I genuinely wanted to write, Tweet, Facebook, blog, or whatever the kids are doing nowadays, to Diana and gush about how much these stories meant to me. I knew I wouldn’t be telling her anything she hasn’t heard before, but at least maybe in my own space, I could attempt to organize my thoughts to be somewhat more coherent (yeah, right). All these months later,anxiously awaiting book nine and season two of the hit Starz series, I find myself in need to put my admiration from brain, to keyboard, to screen. I thought about being proper, formal, and professional to a degree, but instead, I figured I’d just keep my fingers crossed and hope what I’m trying to convey makes sense (because it does in my head, I swear). I may be the only one who reads this, but at least it's here, and anyone who wants to can be made aware that this fabulous universe is out there, so, in that case, you're welcome.
Here’s a sliver of back story because I need to paint a bigger picture. I’ve been reading since before I knew how to read. My parents still tell the story of the time when I was five years old and trying to sneak some Charles Dickens off of my father’s bookshelf to read a massive book I couldn’t begin to understand. I grew up surrounded by books. Every summer I had to compile a reading list and do a certain amount of reading every single day before I was allowed to go outside and play with my friends and be a kid. At the time, I was not the biggest fan of my parents, or reading for that matter. However, as the years went by, I found myself reading more and more, and I even took up writing as well. As early as middle school, I would spend my lunch periods with notebooks, jotting down ideas for stories. Fast forward to spending years in college and graduating university with three degrees, two of which are in English Literature. What I’m saying is that my parents created a monster (of the best kind, of course). Now, as an adult, I have to say I wouldn’t have been brought up any other way. I’m so thankful to have developed such a deep love of literature spanning numerous decades, continents, and genres.
Hopefully, I’m not too much of a monster. In all my leisure time, my schooling and classes, I’ve spent time with countless stories, worlds, and authors. I’d study and read essentially from the time I woke up, and into the late hours of the evening. Even after school has finished, I have shelves crammed with novels and short stories that span the globe and range from old to new. With such seemingly infinite possibilities stored in my brain and on my shelves, Diana Gabaldon is easily keeping one of the highest ranks among my ultimate favorite authors. Classic or contemporary, I can’t for the life of me pinpoint a writer who has done the research she has done for these Outlander stories, and therefore, have not created what I would call a literary masterpiece the way she has with every single installment of this series.You would think with so much ground to cover, it would be easy to lose yourself in the writing process and wind up losing the plot somewhere. This never happens even once in any single sentence she has written. I don’t remember the last time I’ve been so thoroughly impressed and touched by every minute detail she has portrayed. Eight (thick) novels became a chunk of my life, and a chunk of my heart. I laughed, cried, became enraged, was left shocked, and felt the warm fuzzies in becoming an unofficial and silent member of the Fraser clan. From the history, clothing, wilderness, landscape, battles, culture, language, medicines, food, herbs, mannerisms, etc, I have been sucked in mind, body, and soul. I can not praise the phenomenon that is Outlander enough, but I think we already knew that (it’s essentially the title of this post).
As I’ve said, in my own experience writing, I’ve always had stories, journals, and projects I’ve worked on, even as a child. I also walked away from every single word I’ve ever scratched down when having writer’s block, or simply getting bored with a plot. Writers like Diana inspire me to want to keep going with my own work and really put in the blood, sweat, and tears. The fact that she wrote Outlander in order to practice how to write a novel simply baffles me with how astonishing her debut work was, and astounded at everything it has grown to become.
The only regret I’ve had with this whole experience is the fact that I haven’t gotten to these books sooner. To be fair, they started coming out in the early nineties, and I was still in elementary school. I am ashamed to say that I’ve had these books beckoning to me from the shelves of B&N numerous times over the years, but I found it too daunting to take on 800+ pages at the time, multiplied by a stack of (close to) a dozen books. That’s entirely my own fault for being such a coward. Now when people ask if I’ve read all of the Outlander stories, I can say yes I have, and I feel immensely proud. This is not because I’ve taken on a mammoth of a story, but because I’m a part of this world that I can’t even begin to explain the importance of to others. All I can say is, if there are any novels or a single book series you MUST read in your life, these are it 110%. They are an investment in time and attention, but they are beyond worth it once you’ve finished the last page of the last book.
Luckily, since my time with the Frasers, I’ve gotten a few friends into both the novels and the television series, and it makes me feel like a proud parent for having corrupted them. I adore getting text messages and emojis at all hours of the day and night with friends obsessing about this time-travel romance as much as I have. Credit again goes to Mrs. Gabaldon for creating every spec of it for us to have forever.
Me being an absolute nerd with my very own James Alexander Malcolm Mackenzie Fraser.
With the excitement looming and buzzing in the air, I’ve decided to create an appreciation post of sorts for all things in the Outlander universe, and formally thank Diana Gabaldon for the start of it all, her miraculous novels. Disclaimer: no, I’m not doing this because I’m a massive Whovian (fan of Doctor Who) and her concept stemmed from an old episode of the show, but that isn’t detracting from how much I want to shower this woman with praise for capturing me with her novels and inventive story. Bravo and massive brownie points, Gabaldon!
Last summer, I took on the immense task of all eight of these books, and binged on the show as I read. After book one, I watched all sixteen episodes so I could compare the pages to my tv screen, and I was nowhere near disappointed. I was positively hooked. You can read my reviews of every novel here:
My journey with these books took me roughly seven-eight weeks to finish. I began Outlander in the middle of June, and finished Written In My Own Heart’s Blood going into the second weekend in September, and I’ve been overwhelmed and overjoyed ever since.
Outlander tells the story of Claire Beauchamp Randall, a combat nurse at the end of World War II-1945. She’s reunited with her husband, Frank (a former solider and professor) and together, they journey to Inverness and the Highlands of Scotland to enjoy a second honeymoon. While reuniting and getting reacquainted, the couple take time to marvel at a set of standing stones the locals call Craig Na Dun. While exploring and studying the herbs and flowers scattered among the stones, Claire finds herself too close to one of the monoliths and winds up transported back in time to 1743, and in the middle of another war; the Jacobite rebellion. Scotland is at war with Britain to try to gain its independence, and they’re on the brink of the Battle of Culloden where majority of the Highlander culture was wiped out. Claire becomes entwined with clan MacKenzie, and eventually in the arms of one Jamie Fraser. Together, they must navigate the day-to-day, and adapt to not only each other, but a world that's changing rapidly around them. Circumstances lead the pair to an arranged marriage of sorts, and Claire not only finds herself torn between two different centuries, but the admiration and affection for two husbands as well.
Throughout all eight (and soon-to-be nine) novels, we spend decades with Jamie, Claire, and even Frank. Just when you think these stories have gone everywhere and covered every available landscape, Diana comes up with another direction that adds another facet to this universe. Personally, I never want my time with these characters to end. I know one day it will, but for now, I choose to ignore such possibilities.
Finishing these books (for now) left me positively speechless. I genuinely wanted to write, Tweet, Facebook, blog, or whatever the kids are doing nowadays, to Diana and gush about how much these stories meant to me. I knew I wouldn’t be telling her anything she hasn’t heard before, but at least maybe in my own space, I could attempt to organize my thoughts to be somewhat more coherent (yeah, right). All these months later,anxiously awaiting book nine and season two of the hit Starz series, I find myself in need to put my admiration from brain, to keyboard, to screen. I thought about being proper, formal, and professional to a degree, but instead, I figured I’d just keep my fingers crossed and hope what I’m trying to convey makes sense (because it does in my head, I swear). I may be the only one who reads this, but at least it's here, and anyone who wants to can be made aware that this fabulous universe is out there, so, in that case, you're welcome.
Here’s a sliver of back story because I need to paint a bigger picture. I’ve been reading since before I knew how to read. My parents still tell the story of the time when I was five years old and trying to sneak some Charles Dickens off of my father’s bookshelf to read a massive book I couldn’t begin to understand. I grew up surrounded by books. Every summer I had to compile a reading list and do a certain amount of reading every single day before I was allowed to go outside and play with my friends and be a kid. At the time, I was not the biggest fan of my parents, or reading for that matter. However, as the years went by, I found myself reading more and more, and I even took up writing as well. As early as middle school, I would spend my lunch periods with notebooks, jotting down ideas for stories. Fast forward to spending years in college and graduating university with three degrees, two of which are in English Literature. What I’m saying is that my parents created a monster (of the best kind, of course). Now, as an adult, I have to say I wouldn’t have been brought up any other way. I’m so thankful to have developed such a deep love of literature spanning numerous decades, continents, and genres.
Hopefully, I’m not too much of a monster. In all my leisure time, my schooling and classes, I’ve spent time with countless stories, worlds, and authors. I’d study and read essentially from the time I woke up, and into the late hours of the evening. Even after school has finished, I have shelves crammed with novels and short stories that span the globe and range from old to new. With such seemingly infinite possibilities stored in my brain and on my shelves, Diana Gabaldon is easily keeping one of the highest ranks among my ultimate favorite authors. Classic or contemporary, I can’t for the life of me pinpoint a writer who has done the research she has done for these Outlander stories, and therefore, have not created what I would call a literary masterpiece the way she has with every single installment of this series.You would think with so much ground to cover, it would be easy to lose yourself in the writing process and wind up losing the plot somewhere. This never happens even once in any single sentence she has written. I don’t remember the last time I’ve been so thoroughly impressed and touched by every minute detail she has portrayed. Eight (thick) novels became a chunk of my life, and a chunk of my heart. I laughed, cried, became enraged, was left shocked, and felt the warm fuzzies in becoming an unofficial and silent member of the Fraser clan. From the history, clothing, wilderness, landscape, battles, culture, language, medicines, food, herbs, mannerisms, etc, I have been sucked in mind, body, and soul. I can not praise the phenomenon that is Outlander enough, but I think we already knew that (it’s essentially the title of this post).
As I’ve said, in my own experience writing, I’ve always had stories, journals, and projects I’ve worked on, even as a child. I also walked away from every single word I’ve ever scratched down when having writer’s block, or simply getting bored with a plot. Writers like Diana inspire me to want to keep going with my own work and really put in the blood, sweat, and tears. The fact that she wrote Outlander in order to practice how to write a novel simply baffles me with how astonishing her debut work was, and astounded at everything it has grown to become.
The only regret I’ve had with this whole experience is the fact that I haven’t gotten to these books sooner. To be fair, they started coming out in the early nineties, and I was still in elementary school. I am ashamed to say that I’ve had these books beckoning to me from the shelves of B&N numerous times over the years, but I found it too daunting to take on 800+ pages at the time, multiplied by a stack of (close to) a dozen books. That’s entirely my own fault for being such a coward. Now when people ask if I’ve read all of the Outlander stories, I can say yes I have, and I feel immensely proud. This is not because I’ve taken on a mammoth of a story, but because I’m a part of this world that I can’t even begin to explain the importance of to others. All I can say is, if there are any novels or a single book series you MUST read in your life, these are it 110%. They are an investment in time and attention, but they are beyond worth it once you’ve finished the last page of the last book.
Luckily, since my time with the Frasers, I’ve gotten a few friends into both the novels and the television series, and it makes me feel like a proud parent for having corrupted them. I adore getting text messages and emojis at all hours of the day and night with friends obsessing about this time-travel romance as much as I have. Credit again goes to Mrs. Gabaldon for creating every spec of it for us to have forever.
As far as the television series, I’m not going to be one of those people who says, “the book is better”. Again, Diana is to thank. She surrounded herself with outstanding people and she’s been extremely present on set. The end results are fantastic… simply spectacular, and I can’t get over how much I LOVE the show. Much like books, I’ve grown up with a lot of television, but there are only a handful of shows that have been profound for me, and Outlander is one of those shows. The costumes, set, scenery,producers, writers, directors, and CAST MEMBERS have put together a production that have only enhanced my connection to the books. Instead of rambling on and on, I’m going to leave the trailers for season one and the upcoming season two right here, and you’re going to contemplate watching this show as soon as yesterday, so, enjoy:
Season One
Season Two
I would say long story short, but it’s too late for that, and I won’t apologize. When people ask me why I like reading so much, I should just say, “see above” or, “read this post”. Books mean the world to me because I’m allowed to experience another world, one I may never have gotten the chance to experience without words on a page. To some, that may seem silly, but to me, I’m thankful and forever grateful because authors like Diana Gabaldon have bound their souls to set them on a shelf and have allowed someone like me, a complete and total stranger, to inhabit their space, gobble up every word, and tell everyone I can how amazing it is to experience a story like Outlander (or any other story you can think of for that matter). For me, it’s a priceless feeling, and I can’t wait to see what’s in store next.
Thank you, for the millionth time for these stories, Mrs. Gabaldon. I know I’ll never properly convey my sentiments, but I can only hope this is a good starting point. My life would be just a bit more dull if it weren’t for the sensitive heart of Jamie Fraser, and the never-ending bravery of Claire Beauchamp Randall Fraser. They have taught me so much in all the time I’ve spent with them and their family. Without the beauty of their story, I’d simply be a Sassenach who never got to experience the joy and thrill of belonging to a clan of Highlanders. To everyone who has already watched the new season premiere in an advanced way, I'd love to hear your thoughts (without spoilers, please), and to everyone who have yet to watch, please enjoy every single second! Tulach Ard!
Wednesday, April 6, 2016
The Selection- A Series Review
Warning, there are a few spoilers ahead that are only in here because they couldn't be avoided, so if you don't want the plot of later books ruined, don't read further that the review of The Elite. Read at your own risk!
Let me start by saying, I didn't get to any of the novellas until after I finished book one. Did I need to read The Queen (#0.4) to understand what was going on in the main series? Not particularly, but I'm glad I did because one, it settles my OCD with needing to read the complete works including any intervals and spin offs, and two , it was a pleasant intro to the concept of the main story.
As I read book one, I was interested in the dynamic between King Clarkson and Queen Amberley, so I was thrilled to get this insight into how she survived her own Selection to be the king's one and only. If anything, it makes me enjoy seeing them as the rest of the series progresses and we meet her son, Prince Maxon and see how his story takes shape.
My Final Rating: four out of five stars
I gave The Prince (#0.5) three stars because it adds to the aspects of book one from Maxon's POV, but as a story, it wasn't needed.
Anyone who knows me knows that I don't particularly care for repeats. For example, when I close up book one and there's a sequel, I don't want to get to said sequel and have it be almost verbatim the first book but from the other main character's perspective. That's essentially how this novella turned out. I didn't hate it, but as a story, it simply wasn't necessary. If Cass had gotten a bit more creative and given me something new in the overall plot or about Maxon's life, I would have enjoyed it much more.
My Final Rating: three out of five stars
The Selection (#1), the series namesake, is where the story really begins. I won't lie, these novels have been sucking me into their web for months and I finally got to them. Every time I went to Barnes & Noble, these covers caught my eye, plus, the plot seemed interesting enough, so I caved and picked up copies of the first two books to get started.
Take The Hunger Games, eliminate the need for survival, and substitute the need to grab the eye of the Prince of Illéa, and you have a competitive romantic dystopian fantasy. I'm not particularly a fan of dystopian literature. It's simply not my thing, but the story of princesses, kings, and queens was intriguing and overshadowed the fact I was in a world I was nowhere near familiar with.
It is very much a YA or NA story, but I enjoyed the dynamics of the characters. America Singer has a duty to provide for her family who are Fives in the caste system of One through Eight (eight being the lowest and essentially consisted of the homeless). The longer she remains as part of The Selection of thirty-five young ladies to become Prince Maxon Shreave's bride, the longer her family may prosper and benefit from their stipend. America's only problem, is that her heart belongs to Aspen, a Six caste whom she has known since they were children together. When he breaks up with her for what he thinks is her own good, she decides to enter her application into the competition and change her family's future for the better. Attempting to focus on Prince Maxon keeps her from focusing on her shattered heart.
It's a futuristic idea of The Bachelor so if you enjoy a bit of a dramatic and budding romance with a splash of royalty and regal living thrown into the mix, you should read this story. It held my attention enough to keep the pages turning and wondering what would happen next.
My Final Rating: four out of five stars
Things in the competition of The Selection are heating up and the pressure is on in The Elite (#2). America is navigating her way through her rivals, and also through her own conflicted heart. With her ex, Aspen, in the picture as a Royal Guard assigned to see to her own personal safety, and Prince Maxon becoming a prominent piece of the picture, she's torn on where she wants her future to take her.
The rebels from the north and the south of the kingdom are also revving things to an intense level. The castle the Elite girls are residing in along with the Royal Family are constantly under attack and sabotage due to upset among the caste system. Maxon's decision in a new bride and princess could lead the world to new hope, or absolute destruction. He must choose carefully.
This story has a lot of back-and-forth, but if you're up for the adventure for what it is with loads of drama, it's an enjoyable and fast read. America's fickle heart and indecisiveness is really annoying, but I have to keep in mind that she's only seventeen, so any decision she makes is going to be monumental to her regardless of the outcome. In that aspect, I rolled my eyes a bit and kept reading. She has her past love and trust in Aspen, even though he broke her heart due to their separate rankings among society and his need to save her of poverty. Then there's Maxon, the prince who is quite literally, charming and is willing to call off the competition, make her his queen, and shower her with love, fortune and affection. Although he confesses his feelings and intentions for her, it kills America to see him with the other six girls on his arm. Jealousy rears its head a few times which makes her choice even more difficult as to who she'll marry. Until she makes her decision, Maxon and Aspen are left in limbo and must stick to what they know.
My Final Rating: three out of five stars
I really just don't care for these filler books. The Guard (#2.5) is Aspen's story. Yes, I get his perspective on things in the palace, and towards America, but it repeated segments of the same events I just read in The Elite.
Also, I'm not sure how I feel about Aspen anyway. Yes, he's a good guy with a solid heart, but he broke America's and encouraged her to enter this Selection to become the prince's bride in order to have a chance at a prosperous future. Now he shows up as a member of the royal guard, and messes with America's feelings all over again. He didn't do it intentionally, but he also isn't doing either of them any favors.
I could've passed on this one.
My Final Rating: two out of five stars
Out of all the novellas so far, I loved this one the best! The Favorite (#2.6) is the story of another Elite girl in the Selection, and America's best friend, Marlee. Carter and Marlee were the sweetest couple who really stuck it out for love, even if they were technically committing treason against their king and prince.
Marlee was part of The Selection, and Carter was an esteemed member of the Royal Guard, but they couldn't help falling for each other. Luckily for them, Maxon is a gracious ruler and spared their lives in front of the kingdom. When they're caught together, the punishment is death, but Maxon does everything he can to have them caned in the town square instead before being sent away to live as Eights. While that outcome seems just as cruel, Maxon has his reasons that become justified later on in the story.
Their simple life was sweet to experience. It was lovely to know they found their happiness as a couple and didn't need more than each other's love and support to create a blissful existence hiding and working among the staff in the castle, even after they were supposed to be exiled.
Maxon's meeting with the couple some time post-punishment redeemed their friendship and solidified a future for Marlee and Carter and their royal friends. I absolutely adored the presents they received from their king and how happy they still were whether they had nothing at all, or every prized jewel and fortune in the world.
My Final Rating: four out of five stars
The One is the last in the America/Maxon trilogy aspect of the Selection (#3). I know I was a sucker who was totally drawn into this series based on the cover art alone (hello, they're stunning), but I have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed this series. When it comes to dystopian, if you know me, you know I don't usually say things like, "enjoy" and "dystopian" in the same sentence. However, if you look at it as a fairy tale, all the elements are there (and then some) to make this quite an adventure.
America is one courageous young lady. There were several times in this story I willed her to shut her mouth to keep from getting in trouble, but I also cheered for her because she acted like the people's princess, and did what was right over what was law, and I have to give her brownie points for that alone.
Maxon, as usual, is perfection. He's born to rule, but his spirit is as wild as America's, even if it's more pent up in its cage. I could only hope she'd break down his walls more and more.
I still wasn't a fan of the Selection aspect. I just wanted Maxon and America together already, but, he had to have his pick of ladies of the kingdom. This caused my heart to tear in two, because like America, I had to question the prince's genuine sentiments. Was what he said the truth and from the heart, or was he playing a part for his kingdom to see?
It sucked that it took back-to-back tragedy to really make these characters realize their potential both on their own, and in their relationships. I was not expecting the invasions of the northern and southern rebels to turn quite as deadly as they did, so my heart was in my throat wondering who lived and who died. I met so many people in my time with the girls of the Selection at the palace, that I was nervous to see what happened to them when all hell broke loose.
On merits, it's absolutely a YA series. There's a sense of innocence throughout the book, but there's also the constant lesson of finding your voice and being strong whether among friends or among adversity, so while aspects of the tale were a bit juvenile, I can't fault it for keeping me entertained and teaching me some solid lessons on life and love even as an older reader.
I devoured these books. They were fast, sweet, adventurous, suspenseful, regal, and so much more, so I have no complaints as far as what I'm looking for in a great story.
My Final Rating: four out of five stars
I am left thoroughly confused and torn when it comes to The Heir (#4). Bear with me because I'm going to attempt to convey my thoughts properly. This story is part of The Selection series, however, Maxon and America are not in the spotlight. Instead, we meet their children, sons, Osten, Ahren, Kaden, and their eldest daughter (and heir to the throne) Eadlyn.
First off, massive cliffhanger that I'm not okay with... And I have to wait another month to get any answers or clarification. Until then, I'm left with heart palpitations wondering what the outcome will be... grrr...
I did adore Maxon and America twenty years down the line as King and Queen of Iléa. It was amazing to see them as rulers, partners, parents, friends, lovers, and more now that they're more distinguished in their roles and still so deeply enamored with each other.
Thank you, Ahren, for being the voice of reason throughout this whole story. I simply applaud you. our twin sister is so damn stubborn and all all I wanted to do was shake her, so I'm thankful you stepped in a time or two and attempted to come to the rescue.
As far as Eadlyn is concerned, she's nowhere near ready to be a future queen. Yes, she's very astute and has an understanding of her future kingdom, but like everyone points out to her, she's distant, too private, and seemingly too cold to get her people to like her and support her when her reign comes. Maxon is doing his best to groom her for the formalities of the position but she's still too rough around the edges. I understand her frustration of not wanting her hand forced into her own Selection to find a husband, but when some of the boys prove they're worthy of her, she either barely gives them credit or she's so stuck in her old ways refusing to want love or marriage, that I can't wrap my brain around anyone who actually still wants her. She's quite bratty, spoiled, frigid, and cruel. She needs a swift kick in the pants and do some growing up before an entire kingdom is passed her way.
When it comes to the boys of the Selection, I have no idea who I enjoy more or what team I find myself cheering for. Several of them are worthy of the title to be Eadlyn's husband and future prince to her monarchy. I guess I just have to wait until May to find out who the chosen one will be, and if everything from the cliffhanger plays out well. For my own sanity, I hope so.
My Final Rating: three out of five stars
*All novellas: The Queen, The Prince, The Guard, and The Favorite can be found in a companion novel appropriately titled Happily Ever After. They're also available for individual download on the iBooks app.
Lastly, coming on May 3rd, 2016, the next chapter in Eadlyn's life, The Crown. I was going to wait to review this series until after I had read the last book, but I figured I'd at least get the thoughts on the first batch down and bring you the conclusion in a few weeks.
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