A Need So Beautiful by Suzanne Young

A Need So Beautiful by Suzanne Young

Source: ATW Tours

Rating: 5/5

Synopsis: Charlotte’s best friend thinks Charlotte might be psychic. Her boyfriend thinks she’s cheating on him. But Charlotte knows what’s really wrong: She is one of the Forgotten, a kind of angel on earth, who feels the Need—a powerful, uncontrollable draw to help someone, usually a stranger.

There have been others before who’ve felt the Need, but they’re gone—erased from the memories of everyone whose lives they had touched. It's as though they never existed. This is the fate that awaits Charlotte. But the last thing Charlotte wants to do is disappear, to be Forgotten. She wants to stay with her best friend, whose life is spiraling out of control. She wants to lie in her boyfriend’s arms forever. She wishes she could just ignore the Need, but she can’t. And as everyone important in her life begins to slowly forget her, she has to decide if she’ll fight the Need in order to remain herself—no matter how dark the consequences

Review: My mind is still trying to make sense of the ending. I keep rereading the last few pages, and all I can think is: Wow, did that really just happen? Has there been a more beautiful ending? This book takes me to places no book has ever taken me before. I rarely ever cry when I'm reading (Those If I Stay books? Yeah, I didn't get why people cried over them), but this book? It was as if everything bottled up inside of me came out. I got really emotional. I just closed the book up and I'm sniffling and all I can do now is tell you the reasons why you should read it.

It's beautiful. Seriously. The way the author connects every single word in the book together is astounding. It's told from Charlotte's point of view, but your connection to every character reaches well beyond the pages. Every ounce of pain, laughter, and confusion they feel will become your own.

Of course there's romance and friendship here, but the core of it all is something entirely phenomenal. At least, I think it is. Something mind-boggling. It really puts me in a drastic state of awe when a book is this life-changing. It certainly gave me a different outlook on a lot of things. Choices, mainly. The second I closed this book, something came over me and I went out and told my mother I loved her. (Of course, she thought I was crazy, what with the tears and all...)

I'm still trying to think everything through coherently so I'm a little fuzzy on a lot of details. Charlotte might be a Forgetten, but I will always remember her. I will always remember this story.

The one thing I know for sure though is this book? You NEED it.

~~A Reviewer's Journey GIF Style~~

The Beginning:

*CUTENESS OVERLOAD*

AHHH, CHARLOTTE AND HARLIN ARE SO CUTEEEE.

The Middle:

The End:

I am not going to cry. I am not going to cry. I am not...

In short, there are not enough words to describe how incredible reading this book is.

What Happens to Goodbye by Sarah Dessen

What Happened to Goodbye by Sarah Dessen

Rating: 4/5

Synopsis: Another town. Another school. Another Mclean. Ever since her parents' bitter divorce, Mclean and her father have been fleeing their unhappy past. And Mclean's become a pro at reinventing herself with each move. But in Lakeview, Mclean finds herself putting down roots and making friends—in part, thanks to Dave, the most real person Mclean's ever met. Dave just may be falling in love with her, but can he see the person she really is? Does Mclean herself know?

Review: Oh, Sarah Dessen, how homey your books are. Because that's what every Sarah Dessen book feels like when you open it up right? Cozy and comfortable? It is not any different here.

Like every other Dessen book, they resemble one another in their own quirky ways. We always have that female protagonist with the parental issues, not to mention the phenomenal characterization.

And oh, boy. I never expected one of the characters from her previous book to appear again--especially like THIS. Wow, just wow.

I enjoyed this book, but I felt like it had more potential to be something better. I don't think Mclean's relationship with Dave developed well enough in the end. I would have liked to see her interact with everyone altogether instead of just focusing on her own problems. However, no one should ever pass up this book. One of the reasons why I liked this book was because of the characters. I don't think any book in the world has such amazing and life-like characters. If Harry Houdini is the master of magic , then Sarah Dessen is truly a master at people.

~~A Reviewer's Journey GIF Style~~

The Beginning: AHH, I CANNOT BELIEVE I GOT THIS.

Lots of background information, but it's okay. It's SARAH DESSEN! She knows how to make these things work!

The Middle: Heh.Heh.Heh. Dave and Mclean...<3

WHAT THE HECK. O_O How did HE end up like this? :O

Oh my gosh. WHAT IS SHE DOING? Poor, poor McClean :(

The End: It feels so open!! I want moaarr XD

[FTC: Received at RT Teen Day]

The Survivors by Amanda Havard

The Survivors by Amanda Havard

Rating: 4/5

Synopsis: In 1692, when witch trials gripped the community of Salem, Massachusetts, twenty-six children were accused as witches, exiled, and left for dead. Fourteen of them survived.

The Survivors is the first installment of the tantalizing tales of the fourteen ill-fated Survivors and their descendants, who have been content in hiding for over three centuries. Isolated on a Montana mountainside, only Sadie, the rogue daughter, dares to abandon the family's sacred hiding place. But no matter how far Sadie runs, something always pulls her back.

On a muggy summer night in Tennessee, she witnesses a shocking scene that will change her life forever. It is the first in a sequence of events that will drag her from the human world she's sought to belong to for over a century and send her back to her Puritanical family and into an uncertain future filled with cunning witches, mysterious nosferatu shape-shifters, dangerous eretica and vieczy vampires, millennia-old mythology, and the search for her own mortality. After all...

HOW DO YOU KILL A SURVIVOR?

The Survivors will steal your heart and invade your mind. Fall into the pages of Sadie's life, a world so frighteningly similar to your own, you'll find yourself wanting to go to the Montana mountains to find the Survivors for yourself.

And it is only the beginning.

Review: Never has a book taken me by surprise SO much. I really hadn't expected The Survivors to be anything out of the ordinary, but, whoa, it was amazing! The whole book in general is so ridiculously awesome that I still cannot fathom the fact that it's over. I really regret underestimating the degree of its appeal.

With very developed characters and an intricate plot line, The Survivors keeps readers hooked on from page 1. You're probably going to hear this sentence a lot in other reviews of this book, but it's very true--the protagonist is so relatable. Which brings me to the conclusion that this book is not just a book, it's almost having a conversation with Sadie herself and having her tell you every little detail going on in her life. And even if she is different from us, we're going to be able to draw the similarities out. Every emotion that Sadie will feel--confliction, anticipation, love, fear? (LOVE, repeated again just for emphasis, cuz ya now, Sadie steals many hearts in this book) You're going to feel it too. (And yes, you will yell at her. I did. Very often...No, I am not weird! O_O'')

The language Havard uses is very smart and natural that you actually feel smarter when you read the words from the page. And then there was that one scene where I should have KNOWN what was going to happen, but fjsldfjsljj! AHH. I AM STILL IN SHOCK. OHMYGOSH.

I'm not really sure how I feel about the romance aspect of this book. I would have liked to see her relationship(s) develop a bit slower. I do not know if it is the fangirl inside of me, but I just couldn't see why she fell in love with Other Guy. I do not even want to comment on Other Guy.

...But uh, COLE PWNS EVERETT. Every day of the week. Every second of the day. Every inch to the sky!! O_O So if you read this book and you take a liking to Other Guy, I'm afraid we cannot be friends anymore...(not even if you bake me cookies! And yes, I WILL be judging you XD)

On a more serious note, to me, The Survivors really isn't even paranormal. It's unlike any paranormal book I've read--very smart, very fresh, and very addictive, and very still in my mind. But a word to the wise, you won't be able to put this one down once you start (unless you are craaazyyy and not even a good crazy like me...). Read it now if you haven't! I do not know how long I can SURVIVE without the second book in my hand. Watch out, Amanda. *creepy laughter* xD!

And now, let the fangirling begin!

~~A Reviewer's Journey GIF Style~~

The Beginning: *got it out* Okay, let's read...*five seconds later* OMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMG!! *Cole appears* ME:

The Middle: OHMYGOSH! WHAT IS HAPPENING? *is eaten up by Amanda Havard's world of epic proportions*

Mom: Come out for dinner! Me: WHO NEEDS TO EAT? I HAVE THIS INVISIBLE CORN OF DISBELIEF TO CHEW ON!! O_O

WHAT THE HECK ARE YOU DOING SADIE? WHERE'S SWEET, SWEET COLE? Other Guy, you need to find a hole and jump in it and dieeeeee.

O_O OH. MY. GOD. FJSKFJKSLDJF WHAT WHAT WHAT. HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE. * FLIPS PAGES BACK AND FORTH* It all makes sense now o_____o

The End: No, it's over. *SOBSOBSOBSOBSOB* HOW COULD YOU, AMANDA HAVARD? I HOW COULD YOU JUST END THE SNEAK PEEK OF BOOK 2 LIKE THIS? sobsobsob.

You all need to read it now!

---

1) I recently conducted a Twitter interview with Sadie herself along with The Book Pixie! To view it, just click this [edit: updated link here for FULL interview]! (BOWL FOREVER!)

2) Have you heard the GORGEOUS song that goes along with this book? It was just released and honestly, it has been on repeat the whole day yesterday. I'll embed it down below...

Less than three, folks. LESS THAN THREE!~

Angelfire by Courtney Allison Moulton

Angelfire by Courtney Allison Moulton

Rating: 5/5

Source: Netgalley

Synopsis: When seventeen-year-old Ellie starts seeing reapers - monstrous creatures who devour humans and send their souls to Hell - she finds herself on the front lines of a supernatural war between archangels and the Fallen and faced with the possible destruction of her soul.

A mysterious boy named Will reveals she is the reincarnation of an ancient warrior, the only one capable of wielding swords of angelfire to fight the reapers, and he is an immortal sworn to protect her in battle. Now that Ellie's powers have been awakened, a powerful reaper called Bastian has come forward to challenge her. He has employed a fierce assassin to eliminate her - an assassin who has already killed her once.

While balancing her dwindling social life and reaper-hunting duties, she and Will discover Bastian is searching for a dormant creature believed to be a true soul reaper. Bastian plans to use this weapon to ignite the End of Days and to destroy Ellie's soul, ending her rebirth cycle forever. Now, she must face an army of Bastian's most frightening reapers, prevent the soul reaper from consuming her soul, and uncover the secrets of her past lives - including truths that may be too frightening to remember.

Review: OHMYGOD. HOW AMAZING WAS THIS BOOK? I am still reeling from its awesomeness. A little bit dazed still.

Angelfire was the perfect read for me to cuddle up with in midst of all the rain in California. Like an open fire, it was warm and bright, setting off many sparks for my eyes to see. Not only were the characters molded into such beautiful beings by the author, but the story itself had a life of its own. It breathed and it lived, like all books should. The only qualm I have about this book--ONLY one--is that the beginning was a bit slow. It was a nice introduction into Ellie's life but it dragged. The upside to the beginning, though, was KATE. I LOVED KATE. I wish all best friends were that awesome.

I loved, loved, loved Ellie!!! I developed such a strong connection with her that I wasn't able to do with many other YA characters. When she felt frustrated, I was pulling out my hair with her. I felt like I was going through every event in the story along with her. I even had mini spasms throughout her sword-pwning battles. Every time she was in the middle of a fight with a reaper, I had to constantly remind myself that she was going to make it through! I mean, there was another two hundred pages after this scene. SHE WAS GOING TO LIVE, RIGHT? RIGHT? Well, with this book, you never really know. Bravo to the author for keeping you on your toes and guessing throughout. It's not a work of fluff and romance. Angelfire is the perfect balance of romance and action.

Angelfire is a book that will make you giddy and grin like an idiot. You will squeal like a crazy fangirl over Ellie and Will's endearing romance. You will get weird looks from your mother and possibly forget to eat because you just can't put this book down. And when it ends? You'll be wanting to trade your soul to the reapers for more.

(Let me digress... Since it is the holidays, I have a tradition with my sisters: We have a Sailor Moon YouTube/VHS marathon because...well... just because!! O_O DO NOT JUDGE. I am currently watching Season 3 episodes and well, I AM STILL HIGH ON SAILOR MOON. [again, do not judge xD] AND I LOVE GIFS so voila! Plus I am getting tired of my "What I thought of..." parts in my reviews SO I AM CHANGING IT UP!)

~~A Reviewer's Journey GIF Style~~

The beginning was okay~

The middle:

THIS STORY IS AMAZING. KICK THEIR BUTT, ELLIE. KICK THEIR BUTT.

OH MY GOD. ELLIE AND WILL ARE SO CUTE. AH!H!H!H!H

GO ELLIE!!!! KILL ALL THEM PATHETIC REAPERS. REALIZE YOUR LOVE FOR WILL. YOU LOVE HIM. YOU LOVE HIM! YOU MUST LOVE HIM.

The End:

NO, ANGELFIRE. YOU CANNOT END. You must last FOREVAAHH! SOB.

No! IT HAS ENDED! NOOOooo000oo.*stares at book for another half hour*

TAKE MY SOUL. TAKE MY SOUL. PLEASEEEEE. I NEED THE NEXT BOOK!! PLEAASSEE.

And for all you Sailor Moon fans out there: Angelfire is like heaven for people like us. Ellie and Will? They are about as epic as Sailor Moon and Tuxedo Mask. Now that is saying something.

Yup. Read it. Read it now. Or Sailor Moon will punish you.

The Haunted by Jessica Verday

The Haunted by Jessica Verday

Rating: 3.4/5

Synopsis: An impossible truth. An impossible love.

After a summer spent reclaiming her sanity and trying to forget the boy she fell in love with—the boy who must not exist, cannot exist, because she knows that he is dead—Abbey returns to Sleepy Hollow, ready to leave the ghosts of her past behind. She throws herself into her schoolwork, her perfume-making, and her friendship with Ben, her cute and funny lab partner, who just might be her ticket to getting over Caspian once and for all.

But Abbey can never get over Caspian, and Caspian has no choice but to return to her side, for Caspian is a Shade, and Abbey is his destiny. They are tied not only to each other, but also to the town of Sleepy Hollow, and to the famous legend that binds their fates—a legend whose dark truths they are only beginning to guess....

Review: I wasn't sure if I should give the series another try, but I did, and I've got to say: it was better this time. While far better than its predecessor, The Haunted is still lacking that quality that makes me fall in love with its characters. The characters are definitely not three dimensional, but for some reason I can't build any connections with them. I hate that. Hopefully the next book will change that.

I think the reason this book was much better was because The Hollow was just dripped and painted with just so much sadness. The Haunted differs from that. We definitely do not get the same melancholy Abbey for hundreds of pages. Her character changed, and new characters were introduced. And Caspian...he was just so lovable in this book! Honestly, the best character out of this entire novel.

While The Haunted is not the perfect read, it leaves you hanging with unanswered questions. Those of which will make you want to read the third book. :)

What I thought of...

The Beginning: Very slow, but I am loving the changes to Abbey!

The Middle: This is getting so much better. I am actually turning the pages faster :D

The End: ARGH. CLIFFHANGER JFLSDKFJKSLDFJ.

FTC: Checked out from library

The Duff by Kody Keplinger

The Duff by Kody Keplinger

Rating: 4/5

Synopsis: Seventeen-year-old Bianca Piper is cynical and loyal, and she doesn't think she's the prettiest of her friends by a long shot. She's also way too smart to fall for the charms of man-slut and slimy school hottie Wesley Rush. In fact, Bianca hates him. And when he nicknames her "Duffy," she throws her Coke in his face.

But things aren't so great at home right now. Desperate for a distraction, Bianca ends up kissing Wesley. And likes it. Eager for escape, she throws herself into a closeted enemies-with-benefits relationship with Wesley.

Until it all goes horribly awry. It turns out that Wesley isn't such a bad listener, and his life is pretty screwed up, too. Suddenly Bianca realizes with absolute horror that she's falling for the guy she thought she hated more than anyone

Review: Going into this book, I had high expectations--I'd heard so many positive things about it that I was confident it was going to be worth reading. I'm so glad to say that it was. It was strange how the plot unraveled. I hadn't expected it to happen that way. I hadn't expected smile like a giddy schoolgirl whenever Bianca and Wesley were together. I loved the wittiness of the author's writing and the way every word flowed effortlessly naturally.

While the romantic aspect of this novel was very endearing, what I liked the most was how the author tackled so many life issues in one book--and again, it was done just SO naturally. I mean, who HASN'T felt like the DUFF? Reading this book just made me feel like I was worth something, and maybe that's why I enjoyed it so much. Because I was able to see the empowering message it radiates.

I loved, loved, LOVED the characters. They had so much depth and their own unique traits that they never left my mind. Usually in books, there's a character who's seemingly perfect. Well, in The DUFF, no one is. Every single character had their flaws. Flaws that made the book stand out from others. In other books, I didn't feel like I knew most of the characters well, but in The DUFF, I understood them. Like I said, it was just strange and remarkable how this one book changed how I viewed all the books I read in the past. The only downside to this book is probably the ending. Everything happened a little too quickly. Otherwise, The DUFF was absolutely amazing.

What I thought of...

The Beginning: The perfect build-up! :D

The Middle: LOVEEEEE.

The End: I was not satisfied :( Gah, why was it so short? xD

Favorite line:

Wesley Rush doesn't chase girls. But I'm chasing you.

FTC: Thank you to We Love YA Tours

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer
Rating: 4.6/5

Synopsis: Calla Tor has always known her destiny: After graduating from the Mountain School, she'll be the mate of sexy alpha wolf Ren Laroche and fight with him, side by side, ruling their pack and guarding sacred sites for the Keepers. But when she violates her masters' laws by saving a beautiful human boy out for a hike, Calla begins to question her fate, her existence, and the very essence of the world she has known. By following her heart, she might lose everything--including her own life. Is forbidden love worth the ultimate sacrifice

Review: I loveeeeeeed this book. I'd heard fabulous things about it before, but I was hesitant to start it. I mean, another werewolf book? No, thank you. Fortunately, I opened it up and sped through it like it was my only way to survive. I remember going back to reread parts because I didn't want to finish the book. It was just that good. I LOVED Calla. She represented such strength that most girls would die to have. Cremer's hand at a werewolf book is like no other. Starting it, I realized, "Whoa," because it was just SO different from what I usually read in books. It had layers underneath layers, proving that it was a real gem. Do you know how everyone says each book has its own world? Well, I never wanted to leave NIGHTSHADE's.

The only aspect I'm concerned about is the romance. Sure, both boys are lovely, but I felt like I failed to grasp their importance to the story and Calla. To me, the romance never really happened. I hope this improves in the second book.

All in all, NIGHTSHADE is perfect even with its imperfections.

What I thought of...

The Beginning: The first sentence hooked me in right away.

The Middle: SO. MUCH. GOODNESS.

The End: Such a cliffhanger...it pains me to have to wait for the next book D;

I am part of a tour stop for Nightshade! Check back tomorrow for a fanmade trailer :)

FTC: Won an ARC

The Extraordinary Secrets of April, May, and June by Robin Benway

The Extraordinary Secrets of April, May, and June

Rating: 4/5

Synopsis: Three sisters share a magical, unshakeable bond in this witty high-concept novel from the critically acclaimed author of Audrey, Wait! Around the time of their parents’ divorce, sisters April, May, and June recover special powers from childhood—powers that come in handy navigating the hell that is high school. Powers that help them cope with the hardest year of their lives. But could they have a greater purpose? April, the oldest and a bit of a worrier, can see the future. Middle-child May can literally disappear. And baby June reads minds—everyone’s but her own. When April gets a vision of disaster, the girls come together to save the day and reconcile their strained family. They realize that no matter what happens, powers or no powers, they’ll always have each other. Because there’s one thing stronger than magic: sisterhood.

Review: This book was absolutely fantastic. While it wasn't as great as Audrey, Wait! it seems just as real as it. I have two younger sisters myself, so I could totally relate to this book, minus the magical powers part. April was just terrific--probably my favorite out of the three. I just want to befriend all three sisters. Their high school lives are absolute chaos, but with their powers, it makes them feel better. They don't realize they are capable of something much, much more. The romance part just made this book even more fun to read. Thinking about this book makes me squee with delight.

All three sisters have different personalities, which help them stand out. I wasn't sure if the magical part of this book could be pulled off, but it did. It was super hilarious and witty!Sometimes, though, I would forget to read the headings and not realize it was April I was reading about and not June, or some other combination. Or maybe I'm just absent minded...The pacing was good, despite some parts that dragged out. Sometimes, I just felt like the plot line lacked depth. Otherwise, I loved it! The three sisters really are strong together rather than by themselves. This novel will melt your hearts, but not without making you laugh first.

What I thought of...

The Beginning: I love them already!!

The Middle: Perfect tongue-in-cheek story!

The End: Awwwwww.

Favorite part:

"Yeah, well," I said. "You have no idea how crazy I am. I should be wearing yellow CAUTION tape. I'm that bonkers."
He laughed again. He had a really deep, hearty laugh. "So what's your name?"
"April."
Julian nodded. "Well, I'm sorry I littered, April."
"Well, I'm sorry I yelled at you."

FTC: Received from publisher for review

Restoring Harmony by Joelle Anthony

Restoring Harmony by Joelle Anthony

Rating: 4/5

Synopsis: The year is 2041, and sixteen-year-old Molly McClure has lived a relatively quiet life on an isolated farming island in Canada, but when her family fears the worst may have happened to her grandparents in the US, Molly must brave the dangerous, chaotic world left after global economic collapse—one of massive oil shortages, rampant crime, and abandoned cities.

Molly is relieved to find her grandparents alive in their Portland suburb, but they’re financially ruined and practically starving. What should’ve been a quick trip turns into a full-fledged rescue mission. And when Molly witnesses something the local crime bosses wishes she hadn’t, Molly’s only way home may be to beat them at their own game. Luckily, there’s a handsome stranger who’s willing to help.

Restoring Harmony is a riveting, fast-paced dystopian tale complete with adventure and romance that readers will devour.

Review: I've always wanted to read this book after seeing a review from my friend. I couldn't find it anywhere at my B&N, so it took me a while until I found it at an indie. While I didn't love this book like I thought I would, it was certainly refreshing! I can't imagine a world without electricity. The world Anthony creates is alluring, but at the same time, it's also very shocking. Not only that, but it's so believable too! Restoring Harmony was a beautiful story with a powerful message. Its characters shined all around.

Molly, to me, was a good character. She's naive and grows throughout the book, which is entertaining. I liked how she would play the fiddle. I'm glad she brought it with her as it usually saves her. The most important thing I enjoyed reading about was Molly's family. They felt SO real. But Molly was only 16! How could her parents just allow her to go on her own to such a bloody, rubbishy place called America? She's so young! The romance between her and Spill also lacked in a sense, and he seems just too old for her. Still, I haven't read anything like this in such a long while! I'm so glad I did. Overall, this was a nice dystopian novel. Dark at some points, but with a light shining throughout, Restoring Harmony should be read.

What I thought of...

The Beginning: My attention was caught, but it kinda wavered a bit.

The Middle: It was good, but it wasn't GOOOOOOOD. Still, I really liked reading about all the predicaments she got herself in.

The End: It was satisfying, but I would have liked to see more interaction between her family.

(No favorite part/line from book because I lent it to my friend)

FTC: Bought at Vroman's

She's So Dead to Us by Kieran Scott

She's So Dead to Us by Kieran Scott

Rating: 5/5

Synopsis: Perfect, picturesque Orchard Hill. It was the last thing Ally Ryan saw in the rear-view mirror as her mother drove them out of town and away from the shame of the scandal her father caused when his hedge fund went south and practically bankrupted all their friends -- friends that liked having trust funds and new cars, and that didn't like constant reminders that they had been swindled. So it was adios, Orchard Hill. Thanks for nothing.

Now, two years later, Ally's mother has landed a job back at the site of their downfall. So instead of Ally's new low-key, happy life, it'll be back into the snake pit with the likes of Shannen Moore and Hammond Ross.

But then there's Jake Graydon. Handsome, wealthy, bored Jake Graydon. He moved to town after Ally left and knows nothing of her scandal, but does know that he likes her. And she likes him. So off into the sunset they can go, right? Too bad Jake's friends have a problem with his new crush since it would make Ally happy. And if anyone deserves to be unhappy, it's Ally Ryan.

Review: Reading this book was like getting high on chocolate--addicting and delicious. I couldn't stop reading it once I started! And once I did, let me tell you, the ending made it difficult for me to sleep even when I was done. This story is told in both Ally and Jake's point of views. The voices are really distinctive, leaving me with awe. Their relationship throughout the story was my highlight of the week! I absolutely loved their characters. At first, they didn't make quite a good impression, but as I kept on reading, I understood them more and more, Jake especially.

When the characters felt sad, I felt sad. When they were happy, i was happy. I don't think I've ever had such connections to book characters before. I absolutely love all the characters in this book, even the mean and snotty ones. They al had history, and weren't cookie-cutter clean. It's such a shame that some of them use their big awesome brains to bring down Ally. Every time they humiliated her, I just wanted to stick a knife in them and turn it like a doorknob. In this book, nothing's like the surface. Everyone has to read into the lines, and find out who everyone really is. It's the change in character that I really liked about Ally and Jake.

I've never read any work of Scott, but after this book, I'm planning to go to the bookstore this week and grab anything I can see. It's light and funny, which is just what I need for a perfect summer read. I cannot wait for the sequel--seriously, I can't. I'm still thinking about the ending right now. So many questions to be answered!!! Jake and Ally forever!

What I thought of...

The Beginning: I was hesitant at first, but after sticking with it, I actually started to like the characters.

The Middle: Absolutely hilarious!

The End: WHAT THE HECK?!! WHAT KIND OF ENDING IS THIS?!!!!! (I mean this in a good way...)

FTC: Read on Pulse it!

Magic Under Glass by Jaclyn Dolamore

Magic Under Glass by Jaclyn Dolamore
Rating: 4/5

Synopsis: Nimira is a music-hall performer forced to dance for pennies to an audience of leering drunks. When wealthy sorcerer Hollin Parry hires her to do a special act - singing accompaniment to an exquisite piano-playing automaton, Nimira believes it is the start of a new life. In Parry's world, however, buried secrets stir. Unsettling below-stairs rumours abound about ghosts, a mad woman roaming the halls, and of Parry's involvement in a gang of ruthless sorcerers who torture fairies for sport. When Nimira discovers the spirit of a dashing young fairy gentleman is trapped inside the automaton's stiff limbs, waiting for someone to break the curse and set him free, the two fall in love. But it is a love set against a dreadful race against time to save the entire fairy realm, which is in mortal peril.

Review: I don't think I've read anything quite like this before. I've seen great reviews for it, but hadn't had the chance to pick it up until I saw a copy at my library. I actually think I'm one of the few who just read it now. Let me tell you, this novel is a great piece of work! I made the mistake of thinking I could put it down so I started it at one in the morning, only to find myself completely lost in its world by the end, not even noticing it was 3. When the automaton first began to speak, I was REALLY creeped out! But who could blame me? It was late at night and here I am reading about a talking machine. Of course, shortly after, I learn he's much more than that.

Throughout the book, I rooted for Nim! She's not feisty, but she knows how to make very good choices--and she's strong. She knows how to save herself. The only thing I didn't like about this novel was how fast the love happened. I just didn't see it! Heck, I didn't even know she was in love with him until she told him, herself. But the magical aspect of the book makes up for everything. Wherever it is taking place, it obviously is unlike any other. The writing itself was beautiful. I recommend it to anyone with a keen desire for mystery, magic, and romance.

What I thought of...

The Beginning: It draws you in pretty quickly.

The Middle: I was panicking all the way through.

The End: I need the sequel right away!!!! AHHHH. It can't end like this.

Favorite quote from book:

"There could be hope for us yet."

FTC: Got from library!

One Night That Changes Everything

One Night That Changes Everything by Lauren Barnholdt

Rating: 5/5

Synopsis: Eliza is in a full-blown panic. Her notebook has been stolen—the one that lists everything she wants but is afraid to go after. And the absolute worst person in the world has it: her ex-boyfriend, Cooper.

Like it’s not enough Cooper was lying to Eliza for their entire relationship, now he and his friends are blackmailing her. They’re giving her just one night to complete the most humiliating tasks on her list or they’ll post her secrets online—including the ones that aren’t just about her.

Eliza’s sure of only one thing: she isn’t going down without a fight. Cooper may have what’s left of her dignity, but she’s not the only one with something to hide …

Review: For all of those who've never ever read this book, started it, or even heard of it, I suggest you slap yourself right in the face. RIGHT NOW. I am proud to say that once I saw it was in stock at my B&N, I begged for a ride there. Even if it was the middle of the night.

While it isn't as amazing as Two Way Street (nothing in my heart besides A&R'S Epic Detour beats it!), One Night That Changes Everything is definitely one of the best books. EVER. See that summary above? You think it's good? Well, it's even BETTER. Barnholdt perfectly captures the teen voice in all of our souls into Eliza, a perfectly flawed and strong heroine. I wish I knew a girl who wrote all her fears down into a purple notebook. Anyway, moving forward!

The plot goes into full force in the first three chapters, leaving me and hopefully some of you guys addicted. I like how the summary doesn't tell you what Eliza's fears are-that way they really are unexpected. It doesn't stop there though. Soon, the pages are flying with hilarity, suspense, romance, and lots and lots of brilliance! And for the secondary characters in this book...not really happy with Eliza's friends. They're there for her, but I feel like she could do better. As for Cooper? Ha. One of the best YA boys this year.

I am SO glad I bought this book because I'm never going to be the same again. I read this book the same night I bought it, and it changed everything! (see what I did there? xD) I lost a whole heck of a lot of sleep, but who CARES?! With such a refreshing plot, I'm DYING for Barnhold's next YA novel, ACES UP. To all those have the ARC, I ENVY you. It's going to be agony waiting a whole month.

What I thought of...

The Beginning: Hooked right away. But what else is new with Barnholdt's books? They're addicting. They're remarkable. And they know how to draw you in.

The Middle: Hahahahahahaha. I didn't expect ANY of this. XD

The End: I. WANT. MORE. WHY IS THIS SO SHORT? I'M SUING AMERICA!!

Favorite part from book: (Yes it is between Cooper and Eliza. Because they are awesome.)

He smells like soap and shampoo and that same yummy smelling cologne. Wait a minute. I give the air another sniff.

"Are you...are you wearing the cologne I gave you?" I ask incredulously.

"No." He gets a panicked look on his face and takes a step back.

.....

"Take it off," I demand.

"I can't take it off," he says.

"Don't ever wear it again," I command.

He rolls his eyes. "You don't own the cologne."

FTC: Bought! :D You should buy it too.

THIS COMES OUT TODAY! :D

Forgive My Fins by Tera Lynn Childs

Forgive My Fins by Tera Lynn Childs

Rating: 5/5

Synopsis: Lily Sanderson has a secret, and it’s not that she has a huge crush on gorgeous swimming god Brody Bennett, who makes her heart beat flipper-fast. Unrequited love is hard enough when you’re a normal teenage girl, but when you’re half human, half mermaid like Lily, there’s no such thing as a simple crush. Lily’s mermaid identity is a secret that can’t get out, since she’s not just any mermaid – she’s a Thalassinian princess. When Lily found out three years ago that her mother was actually a human, she finally realized why she didn’t feel quite at home in Thalassinia, and she’s been living on land and going to Seaview high school ever since, hoping to find where she truly belongs. Sure, land has its problems – like her obnoxious, biker boy neighbor Quince Fletcher – but it has that one major perk – Brody. The problem is, mermaids aren’t really the casual dating type – when they “bond,” it’s for life. When Lily’s attempt to win Brody’s love leads to a tsunami-sized case of mistaken identity, she is in for a tidal wave of relationship drama, and she finds out, quick as a tailfin flick, that happily-ever-after never sails quite as smoothly as you planned.

Review: Forgive My Fins was more than merely pages of an adorable romance. The characters popped, and the plot consisting of mermaid drama was as delicious as ever. I heard people call this an easily predictable romance, but honestly, my guesses were WAY off. I guess my brain is just not suited enough to make legit predictions. Let's start with the blurbs--it's vague, which makes it all the more better. Many blurbs give out the entire story! I didn't even expect anything but the climax happening. And that epilogue? It definitely added a shocking twist to the story.

The main character had her perks--many, in fact--but there were times I wanted to strangle her. Give her a good beating! (Har-har) The inevitable is going to happen anyway, just deal with it, Lily!

I've always loved mermaids, and I can imagine most of the people who read this blog do too! Forget Ariel, Lily has me hooked!

What I thought of...

The Beginning: It had me quite hesistant, but within minutes, I warmed up!

The Middle: So. Much. Cuteness!

The End: I did NOT see this coming! O_O Sequel? Heck, yes! :D

Favorite quote from book:

Didn't really have one! Just so good!

~~~

I am a member of the street team for this, and I have a couple of leftover swag from this book that will be in the blogoversary giveaway! (12 more days!)

FTC: Bought this!

13 to Life by Shannon Delany

13 to Life by Shannon Delany

Rating: 4.5/5

Synopsis: Something strange is stalking the small town of Junction…

When junior Jess Gillmansen gets called out of class by Guidance, she can only presume it’s for one of two reasons. Either they’ve finally figured out who wrote the scathing anti-jock editorial in the school newspaper or they’re hosting yet another intervention for her about her mom. Although far from expecting it, she’s relieved to discover Guidance just wants her to show a new student around—but he comes with issues of his own including a police escort.

The newest member of Junction High, Pietr Rusakova has secrets to hide--secrets that will bring big trouble to the small town of Junction—secrets including dramatic changes he’s undergoing that will surely end his life early.

Review: I absolutely loved this book. It had almost everything I looked for in a book; a satisfying heroine, mystery, and action. The pacing was as natural as it could get, and Jessie's voice was very distinct. Her relationship with Pietr is very sweet, not like most relationships in YA today. Even the secondary characters were molded in very well. I have a soft spot for her friend Amy.

Delany's retelling of werewolves is very refreshing. I happen to really like Russian history so that just made the book more appealing! Of course, the whole revelation thing with the wolves drags out til the end, but it works. This is one of the best werewolf stories I've ever read!

There's only several things I disliked like the characters, Jenny and Macie. They just seemed a bit superficial. And it was also frustrating when Jessie kept lusting after her crush, and her constant acts of self-sacrifice. However, I could see why she always lives for others and not herself.

Other than that, the writing itself was brilliant! I don't think I've ever read a book where the voice of the character stood out so much. It's like you're RIGHT inside her head. I can't wait for the sequel!

The book officially releases today so...happy birthday book!

What I thought of...

The Beginning: I was hooked very early on. I found myself already understanding the backstory and everything at pg. 18!

The Middle: So, so good! I flipped through this one.

The End: Ends on a mini cliffhanger, but it was satisfying. :)

Favorite Quotes/Lines From Book:

"Oh. Your name's not Peter," I said, wondering if I'd been pronouncing it all that correctly. Huh. P-i-e-t-r. "It's Pie-eater--" ..."No, Pee-yoh--ter."..."Pay-oder?"

"I have never heard so many--creative--pronounciations of my name."

FTC: Bought at store