Spoiler: The Darkest Lie by Pintip Dunn

This novel wasn't at all what I expected. When I'd heard of this book it had been described as a contemporary, which is the romance aspects I suppose it is. But other than that it's a sexual thriller. I don't know if that description makes sense to anyone but me. But here we go. Throughout this novel, we follow CeCe whose mother committed suicide after a student came forward stating that she had sex with him. Even after the mystery aspect is put out there this book does a strange thing where it switches between a love triangle and how bullied CeCe is mixed in with the idea that this suicide was likely a murder. It also seemed when reading the description that CeCe and Tabitha (her mother) were quite close but we see little evidence of this throughout the book itself. Needless to say, this wasn't my favourite book although I look forward to reading some of the authors other works. 

Characters:
CeCe: I think that while she was an interesting character to read from, she was very gullible at many plot points. As well as the fact that she seemed more interested half the time in boys than solving what happened to her mother. Ah to be a high school senior again...

Tabitha: For me, this was the most hard-hitting part of the book. It showed the things that her mother had kept from her daughter. Times of abuse, depression and the rumours that spread about her. I think that she was the most developed character throughout this story.

Sam: He was alright. He kinda had the whole Clark Kent thing going for him. Nerdy, but buff. I also appreciated that he wasn't willing to hurt everyone to get his story. I can admire that. 

Liam: Ok this is sick, but I wish that his backstory had been expanded on so we could learn more about the way his father treated him related to Tabitha and how he came to the idea to one-up his father. 

Tommy: Shows what a "small" rumour can actually do.


Memorable Moments:

Final Line: "Let them stare."


Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: The Diabolic by S.J. Kincaid

So this book has taken me a hell of a long time to get into. I read about 10 pages a day for a week before I forced myself to sit down and read today. And overall I enjoyed this book. I think that the author has an interesting concept, a unique setting and wonderful characters. This being said, I think this book did a lot of info dumping. Throughout I just felt like there was so much for me to take in in such a small amount of time. I also didn't appreciate how fast the rebellion seemed to work out. I would have appreciated it spread out just a little bit more. Maybe continuing to the next book.


Characters:
Sidonia: She was naive and sweet, but it makes you wonder what she might have become in a different situation. Would she still be so loving to "creatures"? Or would she be hard and callous like so many around her? I was sad to see her go but didn't grieve her as much the second time to be completely honest with you. 

Nemesis: The author touches on an important topic, what makes us human? And can we change certain things to disturb this humanity? I don't know the answers but I liked how the author tackled this topic with Nemesis. I also enjoyed watching her discover her humanity, along with realizing that fear is sadly natural. I think that she will be more than a little shell shocked in the next book and we'll see how the Empire views people like her in their society.

Tyrus: I don't know how I feel about him, at first I was all in and loved him. Now I'm thinking I should be more cautious. He will make an interesting leader. A cunning one for sure.

The Emperor: He was a sick freak, but none the less a puppet. 

Elantra: She wasn't going to make it far. Let's be honest she was an evil girl, who liked to flaunt what other's didn't have. She reminded me a lot of Evangeline in the Red Queen series

Cygna: So incredibly manipulative. I wonder what else would have happened if she had her way. 


Moments to Remember:
Final Line: "Whatever lay ahead, it would always be the two of us above the rest of the universe, and woe to any who dared step in our path."

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalco

This is yet another audiobook that hooked me. And more than any other that I've listened to before. Our story takes place in London during the time of the Jack the Ripper murders. Our main character, Audrey takes little to no shit from anyone and works secretly with her uncle learning the about forensic science. A little strange for a young woman in such a time period. Through her work, she begins to investigate a string of murders where women are butchered in the east end, and begin to piece together who the murderer could be. Is it someone close to her?

So since you've read the book you know who it is. But were you shocked? I was a little underwhelmed at learning who the murderer was, but blown away for the reasons of the murders. I think that the author had a mesmorizing way of writing about such gruesome things that kept me interested and wondering about who the killer was, what it was like to do an autopsy in such times, and why the bodies were being butchered in such ways. The narrator for the audiobook had a tremendous voice and kept me interested throughout the story. Her accent was amazing and I would truly recommend the audiobook to anyone looking for a good thriller. Please excuse the lack of care taken in the character section, I have trouble remembering side characters names in audiobooks.

Characters:
Audrey: I had my doubts that she would be a badass main character in such a time. And while the story does a great job of showing what life was like for young women in the time period, I had trouble believing that she would be able to investigate a body for Scotland Yard. Although if she had someone who admired her who was in charge I suppose that made sense. I did think that at some points she was a bit naive and at others so peculiar. But these two things really helped tie the story together. I think that the way she cared so much for women she had only really known in death was amazing, and how although she had a certain standard for the way she was brought up she didn't look down on these young women. She wondered about the choices that had placed them where they were. I can't wait to read more from her perspective.

Thomas: Now he is a sly fox. I thought for sure that he was going to be the ripper, but after finding out about his trouble past and being thrown out by his father, his actions started to make a lot more sense. I did think there were multiple times where his choice of words were irritating especially when he acted like such a know it all (even though he was). But I can't wait to see he and Audrey flirt even more in the next book.

Nathaniel: I'd be lying if I said he wasn't a suspect for me in the beginning. I had started to brush him aside a little, but after realizing that the author didn't even seem to note him suspicious, I became extra suspicious. Cause that's what kind of anxious person I am.  He was a delusional little shit, and super scary near the end, but I wonder why he became so obsessed with raising the dead, would be interested in a prequel from his point of view.

Uncle Johnathon:  He did seem pretty crazy near the start but after time I realized that science was his family and his job, and his love. So he was devoted? Does that make him crazy... maybe a little bit. I will miss him in the next story, but wouldn't be surprised if he turned up to lend Thomas and Audrey a hand.

Father (Edmond?): He was something, and while he did not deal well with the passing of his wife (who really does?) he tried his best to raise his children in a way that he deemed appropriate. I do feel sorry for him to have seen his beloved wife's corpse being maimed by his crazed son, but at the same time it really shocked him into action for Audrey's future.

 Blackburn: When did you become interested in Audrey and what will happen to you now?

Cousin V: I liked her spunk, but also the way she dealt with the cultural norms at this time. She still obeyed her mother's will, while staying true to who she was as well. A very interesting character to say the least.


Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

What a fun reread to start the month with? I think this book helped to remind me why I read middle grade. Rick Riordan's writing style and humour held me interested throughout the storyline and I can't wait to continue on with his books. I hope to reread this series and start the next series at some point this year.. is that a reasonable goal? I think this story makes learning about myths more interesting and helps younger readers see what the Gods looked like and could look like throughout the years. I also really love the story arch in this first book. My one complaint is that Percy is so freaking young. I thought he was 16, and me being 22 made me see that 12 years old is a little young to be taking quests and such. Although the teenage angst was all I could wish for and more. Can't wait to read the second book in this series.

Characters:
Percy: A hilarious main character. I forgot how he was diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia. I think that this was an interesting concept for Rick Riordan to bring up, and might help young readers identify themselves as a hero rather than someone who might need a little help (does that make sense). I loved his angsty and how he was introduced to the world so the reader could follow some of the main events. 

Annabeth: She is a real spit fire and I can appreciate that. I do wonder how her summer with her father will go. She seems to have a troubled past and I wonder what will happen after this quest.

Grover: Loved him. Reminded me of some of the people I knew in middle school and his character has to be one of my favourites in the series as far as I remember.

Hades: I won't lie I still picture the Disney version whenever this character is mentioned. I can't wait to see more of him. 

Poseidon: His description is amazing. I do wonder about his romance with Percy's mother and how his life will interact with Percy's.

Ares: As we all know, kind of a dink.

Zeus: This guy has the right to yell at people for fathering children... um, pardon you, sir.

Dionysus: Love the sass and lack of caring. Exactly what I expected from his character.

Luke: He makes for a kick ass villain I can't remember what his role plays throughout the series so I can't wait to read on and see him again. 


Favourite Lines:

Final Line: "I asked Argus to take me down to cabin three, so I could pack my bags for home."

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: The Reader by Traci Chee

So this book was a really good pick up from the reading that I've had lately. I feel like I've read alot of books that I thought were just ok and this one was really good. So let's start with why this book wasn't a 5/5 for me personally. I debated over what rating to give this book for some time, but I found the start of the book to be so incredibly slow, it just wasn't a 5/5 for me personally. I was happy that I didn't chose to DNF this book after 80 pages though because I began to really enjoy it around the 150 page mark (this is an estimate). I think something the author struggled with was pacing in this book. I couldn't tell how much time had passed and where we were going. I also found it difficult to relate the main character at the beginning of her reading journey (it seemed to come a little to easily). It just felt strange to read about someone learning to read. I did enjoy the aspect that a book could be magical and teach you the future, present and past. I also enjoyed the assortment of point of views after I got used to it. At first it seems like there is too much going on at once but after you get used to it, it become enjoyable to see what you're characters are up too. 

Characters:
Sefia:I think she was an interesting chosen one character. She made it clear from the start her intentions but when faced with the reality of having to kill someone she wasn't so sure. Which I feel is extremely realistic. I also thought that she was a bit naive to trust some of those around her or to leave notes behind her. That made it a little to easy. I wonder what she will do now that she's on the run from The Guard. Will she stop and join them or count on the crew to help her. I can't wait to read the sequel in... November... 

Archer: I think that he was another interesting main character. Mute and tortured he made for someone who was interesting to see in the world. Having been caught and forced to do so many horrible things that he forgot his past. It makes me wonder what he will have to do now that he has his voice and memories back. Clearly he and Sefia are a badass duo, so I strongly hope that that continues.

Nin: I wonder about her connection with the Guard and Sefia's parents.

Lon: He got a little big for his shoes I think at some points in the library but he was a powerful character. I wonder how he knew Tanin and why it came to his death in the end. Obviously they weren't that good of friends.. I'm just saying.

Captain Reed: Loved this character he was charming and bad in all the right ways. I think that he served an interesting role in the story and it should be interesting to see him in the sequel. His crew is definitely a unique one and he seems like one of the more just pirates I've read about.

Tanin: Who the hell are you? And why do you think that bringing a raging war to those everyone will end in eventual peace? Will it be a forced peace? That's kind of what it sounds like to me. I'm glad she's dead but what will happen without her as the director. 

Harison: What a sweet boy? The stories about his past broke my heart a million times over.

Mareah: To have to give up who you were, are and a future is horrible. But to kill those you love to show you're loyalty to a cause? That's cruel. It makes me think hard about the Guard and what they believe. 

The mate: Creepy but in the best way. I want to know more about his life and how he came to understand the ship. Can we please have a novella for this guy? Please?


Moments To Remember:
Pg. 323
"'You got a chioce, Sef. Control your future, or let your future control you.'"

Final Line: "'Anywhere but here,' she said."


Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs

To begin, these thoughts are my own opinion and if you're a die-hard fan of this series more power to you.

Based on that opening line, I have a feeling many of you know what I'm about to say. I didn't love it. I didn't hate it. It was a solid OK read for me. I think that the format of this novel was very interesting and yes I plan on continuing the story to learn more about the characters and the world. This being said, I didn't fall in love with the writing style or our main characters. I thought that this premise had a lot of promise and after being recommended it several times I had high expectations for this book. Unfortunately, it just wasn't the read for me. It took me a long time to read and I feel that while I'll remember this book, I may mostly remember the format. To continue my thoughts let's get into some character discussion.


Characters:
Jacob: Not my favourite main character, I felt for him in the beginning of the story. Dealing with the feeling that he didn't really belong and then witnessing a horrific scene. But then throughout the book, he was so severally wishy washy that it drove me crazy.  I think that his interest in Emma was questioned for only the briefest of seconds before it was just happening. It made me wonder about how he could make the decision so fast, but during other times just couldn't figure out what the heck to do.

Emma: Again interesting, but I wonder about her relationship with Abe and if she's really over it or if she's just replacing him with Jacob. I know it's been a long period of time, but still. She's been stuck reliving the same time over and over. It makes me wonder.

Miss Peregrine: I also wonder more about her past and her brothers. I think there may have been a name drop near the end of the book, but I'm too lazy to go back and check. I wonder if she'll ever be able to transform again. 

Millard: Probably one of my favourite characters. The way he speaks and just tells everyone how it is (especially after he's been shot). I wonder about his future in the series for sure.

Enoch: Creepy little shit... isn't he? But I like him for that reason especially. He's what I thought this book would be... creepy kids.

Olivia: She's so incredibly young, makes you wonder how mature she is internal.

Bronwyn: I think she's going to grow a lot throughout the series.

Grandpa Portman: How well his story lined up with World War II events was unfortunate because it made his "stories" seem like a cry for help when really he just wanted to share his past with someone so bad. Unfortunate how he met his end, and how no one believed him. To know that you're the only one you can count on.

Golan: Not completely surprised, but slightly creeped out to think about the people I pass every day without taking notice. Could I interact with so many people and not recognise them if they were the same person. Creepy.


Final Line: "We rowed faster."



Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: The White Rose by Amy Ewing

So this was a book I picked up because I enjoyed the first one and hadn't read a dystopian like this in a long time. I thought that the world was interesting and seeing different kinds of servitude to a ruler was interesting to me. The idea of companions and surrogates was interesting to me. In this book we learned so much more about the world how regimentals are taken, as well as ladies in waiting. It was interest and sad to see a world where there was so little choice in what you became, where the rich keep getting rich and the poorer are continual losing loved ones and lives. I think that the author does a very good job of getting a reader interested in different aspects of the world, but around the last 2 hours of the audiobook I found myself getting bored with where this story was going. And while the author tried to write a surprising ending, I wasn't surprised by what happened and guessed it within the last half an hour of the audiobook. For these reasons I thought this book was ok, it was good but not my favourite dystopian of all time.

Characters:
Violet: I think that Violet started to find peace with herself and what she had to do. But at the same time I found her a frustrating character because she was constantly saying it was time for answers she just got the bare minimum but then kept getting angry about it. I also thought she made many poor choices. I'm interested to see how her sister's kidnapping will change her, I can't see a way it won't.

Ash: To have to leave your sister to die when you are helping so many others can not be easy, but to see him without a purpose is so frustrating. Not quite as frustrating as people not taking his need for help seriously. Companions don't ask for what they get either. They aren't given a choice.

Raven: To see her so week and so different was scary, but also important to remind the reader what they were fighting against. I was surprised that she didn't want to learn what the other elemental powers were, but I can see how she would be frightened after all she's been through.

Sil: I'm not sure if this is how you spell her name, but I listened to the audiobook so I'm just guessing. She's a weathered woman. She's seen things that no person should ever have to and has lived through the building of a revolution I only hope she gets to see a better world.

Lucien: His story was another one that broke my heart. To hear that his father sold him out so similar to how Ash's family sold him out broke me. It was hard to see that they couldn't see eye to eye. They have no reason to fight, they should remember who they are really trying to fight but we'll see how well that works out.

Garnett: I wonder what made him really turn to the Black Key and could he be the weak link? It's sad to think that that's possible, but he didn't really get what he wanted out of the deal, he still had to marry the boring teacup lady.


Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: Like A River Glorious by Rae Carson

Like A River Glorious is the second book in the Gold Seer Trilogy by Rae Carson and we follow our main character Lee building a new home with her family and finding her own in the California. We follow her adventures and unfortunate circumstances the characters in our story go through. I think the author did a very good job of picking up right where she left off. I thought that it was interesting to see our characters starting a new home and becoming a new kind of family. The characters seemed to stay true to who they were and I loved that they were interesting and unique to other characters in this time. I also enjoyed the story line. I think that it was important that things weren't perfect, there were accidents, and people leaving. As well as, how the villain returns. I loved the mystery of what happened with Lee's mother and Hiram. It really makes you wonder if she is his daughter by blood. It was sad to see the camp change after people left and passed on, but I see why this was an important aspect in this story. I won't lie, I cried all the same. And what will happen after such a dramatic ending?

Characters:
Leah: I thought that Leah was so strong in the last book, and I was right she was. But I found her need to be too independent in this book to be troublesome. Especially after being captured and when Jefferson asks for her hand throughout the book. I did think that it was about time they got together in this story, but at the same time when you can't own anything or have your name on something because you're a lady... ugh I live a very lucky life to not have to think about things like this. I was very proud of Leah for taking down her uncle, helping those who were trapped in the camp and taking care of her new family. I wonder what will happen with her change in her magic as well, should be interesting to see how the author takes this story to the next book and the next level. 

Jefferson: He's grown from a boy to a man. I thought it was very interesting to see how he changed his proposals every time. I thought it was extremely endearing to see him stick up for Leah even after she brushes him off so many times. He is strong enough to deal with what he saw and stood up for what was right even though it was far from easy. I wonder where his path will take him.

Tom: I think that he's an interesting character to look into. It's interesting to see how the college boys act and how those around them accept it. Not that there's anything wrong with whatever sexuality you believe in. But that being said, during this time it would be rare to have this accepted in society.

Hiram: He's a real son of a gun. I hate him. He's horrible to everyone around him but I can't help but wonder what happened between him and Leah's mother. Is it true that they had one last night together? Or did he take advantage of her? I also wonder what happened to make her mother change her mind and marry Reuben.. there's a lot of things that are going unanswered. To see how he treated those around him as well as those in his care broke me a little bit. It's horrible to think that this was often the sad truth as North America progressed. 

Muskrat: I hope that he made it out of the fray, he did what was right for his people, it's a shame that he lost so many before they made it to any form of freedom. 

Dilley: I won't lie, I'm glad he died. He deserved it. This character showed his true form of evil in this book for sure. 

Tug: I didn't like him at first but he grew on me. I hope that he doesn't get too angry when Leah and Jeff get married, but it was bound to happen.

Mary: What she went through to get to freedom was horrible. To have to sleep with men, be beaten, abused and kidnapped... I can't even imagine. I do wonder what will happen next in her story. 

Wilhelm: What is this man's story? How did he get caught up with Hiram and Dilley?

Mr. Hardwick: I don't trust this man as far as we can throw him. He just doesn't seem like a good guy overall. I hope that he disposes of Hiram though as Leah requested.


Moments to Remember:
Pg. 143
"'I think you're in love with me,'' he says.
I stare at his lips. What comes out of my mouth is: "Jefferson McCauley Kingfisher, you have the swagger of a rooster and the swelled head of a melon.'"

Pg. 209
"'What now?' I ask.
He gestures toward the cabin.
'Again? All day?' I hate being cooped up, doing nothing. I've never spent an idle day in my life, and it makes me fit to burst.
He just frowns.
'Well, don't talk so fast. I can hardly understand you.'"


Pg. 250
"Well, I'm going to interfere. I'm going to interfere plenty."

Final Line: "'Never call me that again.'"



Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: The Winner's Kiss by Marie Rutkoski

What a good way to start the reading month! Boom! I was looking forward to wrapping up this trilogy but also nervous about all my fictional loves in this book. This series had a way of tearing the reader apart... in a good way. I loved the writing of the romance and the political drama. The characters and the interesting choices that the author made to set this book apart (a girl whose power lies in her smarts, having "savages" enslave the cultured society, etc). I really enjoyed the drama in the first two books and was a little disappointed how Kestrel chose to fight physically more in this book, although it made sense.

Characters:
Kestrel: So I thought for sure when she lost her memory I was gonna hate this book, I thought that the time in the mine was slow and while the dual perspectives kept me interested it was frustrating how long it took Arin to realize what the hell had happened. None the less, I think it really worked wonders for their relationship. I also mentioned how I was unsure when she kept using physical combat during the war, but in the end, she used her strategizing to win the war for everyone. Very impressed and love her to the end.

Arin: This guy gets me. He is hot and amazing and a martyr which for some reason gets me. I really thought that it was interesting to see how he kept Kestrel at a distance and while he was heart broken after she rescued him. I thought for sure he would throw a pity party but he was patient and got her to fall for him again. Ladies and gentleman, I fell with him. I would do literally anything for him.

Roshar: He is hilarious and wonderful. I did wonder about how he used his humour so much during the war, but he kept this story light and funny. It was great, I hope that he finds love in his lands with his freaking tiger.

Risha: What a badass.

The Emporer: Perfect ending for him. I loved it! I thought that it was incredible.

Verex: The fact that he still tried to help Kestrel, even after she was a "traitor". I hope that he finds happiness with Risha.

The General: He will learn to forgive himself and her, I'm sure.

The Queen: She thought she was so smart huh? You'd get the land if your brother owned it, but your brother is even smarter. So suck it! I'm not her biggest fan... obviously.


Moments to Remember:
There were alot I didn't mark so I'm just going to put the final line.... should I end this section???

Final Line: "'Play.'"


Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: Shiny Broken Pieces by Sona Charaipotra and Dhonielle Clayton

So I freaking loved the first book in this duology which gave me such high hopes for the second book. I'm more than slightly disappointed I won't lie to you. It's just sad to see the character change so quickly to a point where I felt like I didn't even know who was talking each chapter if I didn't read the name on top of each chapter. I was just disappointed in the drama and the twists and turns. It was all just ok while the first book blew me away, this book just threw random things at me and I just wasn't into it. 

Characters:
Bette: She changed a lot since the first book and after being kicked out of school for being a massive ass hole. It's no wonder everyone thought that she pushed Gigi, look at what she did in the past to bother her. She went to far all the time. I was surprised to find out that she hadn't done all I thought she had.

June: I thought it was interesting to see how her eating disorder changed and continued throughout the year. It was important to show that a boy couldn't just "fix" her eating habits. She had to admit that she needed help and want to get it. She needed to want to live and to be healthy. I'm sure there would be more setbacks in real life, but I'm curious if people who have experienced an eating disorder could relate with this character. 

Gigi: I hated her. She wasn't the person I cheered for to get better. She completely changed which made sense but it got a little crazy. I think that her character was written about hastily in this book. Although I am very glad that she ended up with the apprenticeship in the end. Although her and Bette competing more scares me more than a little.

Cassie: She is taking revenge way to far. I would have been interested to see things from her perspective more regularly throughout this book as she was a key player in so much of the drama. 

Alec: I feel like he is so indecisive about Bette and Gigi. Chose one or the other or just get the hell out. Also, who doesn't talk to a significant other for months on end? Even just to fight more. It was too weird for me.

Sen-Jin: Crazy to see her change as well. Too much change for me to be honest.

Henri: He's an interesting character and I wonder how much he had to do with everything overall. Did he also influence Eleanor and others around him to mess with Gigi?

Eleanor: I was sorry to see what happened to her, but it's an interesting perspective to see a person in power with a student. I find this more and more in TV and books and it makes you wonder how accurate it is to the situation in real life. It's more than a little crazy to think about.


Moments to Remember:
Final Line: "'I"m sure it is, Bette, I"m sure it is.'"

 Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: King's Cage by Victoria Aveyard

As always I am total Victoria Aveyard trash. So that's just my life now. I've already called my boyfriend and cried a bit. I'm sort of fine now. Good enough for me.
So this book i wasn't sure what the hell was going to happen. After the ending in Glass Sword I was dying to know which direction the author was going to take this book. And I loved it. I really thought that the characters were far more interesting to learn about the characters. We found out so much more about most of them. Not to mention the changing of perspectives which freaked me the f@ck out, because I thought we were pulling a Veronica Roth her and I wasn't ready for that! I also thought that the plot became very politically intriguing we found out so much more about the surrounding countries: Piedmont, Monfort, The Lakelands, etc. 
I really appreciated the way the author made sure the captivity was long, I was worried it would be a quick rescue and it being to easy but it was a long time. Enjoyed it, sorta.
Also the changes in some of the writing to make this appear more dystopian than fantasy. Adding water bottles, and origins to the silvers was an amazing touch!

Characters:
Mare: She really changed alot as a character, instead of pushing away she pulled in when she got her loved ones back. But it did break my heart to see her sort of open up again to Maven just to realize how truly twisted he was/is. He's a screwed up dude. But she also let Cal in only to get hurt. Which I mean like we'll get to that. My heart completely broke for her in the end of the book, but we all should have known things were going too fast.

Cal: I was on your team Cal when no one else was there. I was there. But then you pull this garbage. I can't believe you would work so hard just to run away. I was really loving your banter and how you were opening up to her and loving her. It was beautiful. I thought you made a choice, ya idiot. 

Maven: My heart broke when he told the story about Elara making him walk and taking away his memory. I thought that he might try and change, but that's just my wishful thinking. Anyone else thinking he dug his own grave though?

Cameron: Seeing her perspective was very valuable. I thought that the way she thought of her brother reminded me so much of Mare in the first book trying to get back to her family. I also thought meeting her brother was interesting, to see his reaction to the propaganda. Jeez 

Evangeline: Another interesting perspective. I mean I didn't know that she preferred female companions and that she wasn't interested in the crown for herself. But looking in to some things that makes sense. I was hoping right there with her when she was hoping that Cal would say no. 

Farley: Not surprised that she was pregnant, but that she chose to fight after giving birth so soon. Badass.

Kilorn: He's calmed down a lot which I can appreciate, but please find love. Please my little fictional baby.

Iris: I wonder about her reaction to losing her father and why she was so calm when she was pretty much given to a mad king losing power.


Moments to Remember:
Pg. 198
"'You think I would lie?'
I can't help but laugh darkly. In the back of my mind, I wish for a knife. I wonder if he could incinerate me before I slit his throat. 'You? Never.'"

Pg.359
"'A schedule,' I snort, stepping into the sunshine. 'You sound like a Silver lady.'
'Well, when you're as good-looking as I am...,' he sighs.


Final Line:
"We're going to let them kill each other."


Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: The Jewel by Amy Ewing

So another audio book to start off the month. I started this audio book 8 days ago and I sped through it. I found myself wanting to listen to this rather than reading, which is kind of a reflection of me as a person. I'm trying to read something quickly, but also I'm currently reading King's Cage and I don't want to speed through it to have to wait for the next one.
So what did I think of this book, I really enjoyed it. I thought that it was an interesting premise. The idea that a group of wealthy people would buy someone to have their child to compete to become royalty was interesting to me. And to have these girls trained in a centre to have magical powers, or to train them how to use powers they already possess is a little evil, to say the least. I enjoyed the main character, but she wasn't anything that stood out that much to me other than her eyes which were mentioned about every 40 minutes in the audiobook. I really liked the characters overall but found myself sticking in it for the world-building. I will say that I wasn't a fan of the instalove in this book. It just didn't seem real enough to me I understand that the two characters would have similarities in life but I"m more interested in Ash's upbringing at this point. How was the school for him, are there more like him... what the hell. But here are more thoughts based on characters.

Characters:
Violet: I thought that this perspective was perfect she was interesting and looked at the end like she was about to get involved in a rebellion, but then she gave that chance to someone else which makes me wonder what will happen. Speaking of which. She and Ash knew that they could have been caught at any minute... maybe be a little bit more careful dumbie. I'm just saying. Be careful. I do wonder what will happen to her now, but especially with who called her at the end. 

Ash: I do wonder about his schooling and his years. I'm sure he's seen horrible things, but it makes me wonder about a spinoff about his early years of life. Is there a novella like that cause I"m interested for sure. I do like that he acts so different with Violet, but they knew each other for what a month and were ready to talk about how sad they are they can't get married... that's a little too rushed, even for me.

Garnett: You are something aren't you. I kinda love it and I have his novella on my list of books to pick up next. Ugh. I just need to know.

The Lady of the Lake: She is certainly something. To treat another person like that is horrible but to know that she will kill her after child birth or that child birth will kill her is perhaps the worst of all. I think that she made a good villain for the first half of the book, and I wonder about her backstory as well.

Raven: She had more than a little bit of a tough go. How did she deal with what she did and what will she do now...? Did she even really get away or was that something that she would forget like she forgot her freaking best friend... ugh.

Julien: Interesting to see him have so much sympathy towards Violet but none for Ash.

The Electress: Evil takes another form in her. Let's just get rid of the girl's brains instead of finding a way to clone ourselves or to have children without the need for humans at all. Genius.... eye rolls are frequent right now... in case you're wondering.



Thanks for reading,
Sdiny

Spoiler: Deep Blue by Jennifer Donnelly

So it's only the beginning of the year and I've already found a book that just wasn't for me. Off to a good start, aren't we? Anywho this story is the story of a princess mermaid who is one of 6 chosen ones. It speaks about girl power and attempts to create a magical underwater world. I did find that the history was in depth and interesting. I thought that that would carry throughout but it seemed to lack in the middle. I also found that the time line didn't seem to line up, it didn't flow as nicely as I had hoped. And here's what really got me down in this book, the characters were whiny and juvenile. 

Characters:
Seraphina: Whiny and under developed. I found that this character did not act her age and wasn't ready to take over much of anything. I did empathize that she lost so much, but she didn't seem to care the Neela had also lost so much with her.. Just agravating.

Neela: Her obsession with candy was cute at first but after time it was more frustrating than anything not to mention her slang. I don't have much else to say based on how little I really know about her from the writing style.

Ling: I'm sure they would really just stumble on this girl in the middle of nowhere that's fine.

Mahdi: She's going to end up with the bad party boy, in the end, won't she? I don't' even care to read to find out.


Moments to Remember:
Final Line: "In the time to see Vraja pick up a rock and smash the mirror."


Just a quick note that these are only my opinions and I encourage everyone to make up their own minds about books. Even though this book was not for me, it doesn't mean that someone else wouldn't enjoy it.
Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: A Torch Against the Night by Sabaa Tahir

So if you've been here a while you may have seen my review of An Ember In the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir. So I wasn't as pumped about it as so many others seemed to be. I didn't hate it I thought that it was fine. I didn't love it either though. I wasn't as drawn in as so many others were with the first book. I bought this book not sure if I would love it or even like it for that much. So when I started to really get into this book I was trash before I knew it. I loved the change of pace, being on the run from people who can track anyone who are trained to kill. A rescue mission and magic none the less. That being said it took my a little while to get truly into the story. I can't wait to see where the rest of this series goes and if more perspectives will come along or not. I'm enjoying the three we have so far but I'll mention more below.

Characters:
Elias: I love Elias, I know it's kind of messed up because he's now a Grim reaper type guy but he is so good. Too good to be a mask. To kill with no reason. To not care. He's got a troubled past sure thing but I'm expecting that Harper is going to come and stir up some shit that he doesn't even know about. I can't wait.

Laia: I think that her character really changed as well. She started to see that people were taking her movements seriously. I thought that while some of her actions were rash, they were what she believed was necessary to save her brother. I'm curious about her powers and what she will do now that Darin has been saved.

Helene: My heart breaks for her but she has truly been unmade. She will get through this because she is the strongest of them all. She's put up with being rejected, being lead by a psychopath and then watching her family be killed. I can't wait to see her next move.

Darin: Is he going to be whole after what he went through?

The Commandant: She's crazy if she thinks she can just overthrough everyone, but it makes sense that she would go for it. She's ruthless if nothing else.

The Warden: I kept picturing him as a Crow from Game of Thrones but spookier. To experiment of prisoners is horrifying but he had true power in that prison. With the fear that those who walked it's halls must have felt. 

Keenan: Our should I say not Keenan ( I had a better lead up but I forgot it). The Nightbringer is coming and he doesn't give a single F*ck about anyone. He wants to free his own true, but he also wants to kill many for what they did to him. 

Marcus: The way he played with the Commandant makes me happy, but he has a lot more battles to fight to win the support of those around him, and hopefully those around him give him a hell of a fight right back. Especially Helene.


Moments to Remember:
Final Line: "'Look at you.'"

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: Tiny Pretty Things by Sona Charaipotra and Dhonielle Clayton

So if you haven't read this book I would highly suggest that you read the review rather than this spoiler. I read this book and didn't think that it would be a mystery and then boom it hits. I loved the idea of the ugly side being shown even more than the beauty of ballet. Seeing what someone would do for their passion. I really thought that it was interesting to see the three different takes. I thought that this story was important to read. It was definitely a thriller. I still don't know who the fuck did what. I know about what Bette admitted to doing, but what about the rest? Did Eleanor do that?

Characters:
Gigi: I loved her from the start. She was unique and different and driven. She was able to put her passion first even above her bodily demands. Although that was a fear the whole time I read the book,  I thought it added an interesting idea to the ballet.  I don't blame her for starting to loose it but I can only hope that she'll be ok. I can't wait to see if she'll make an appearance in the next book.

Bette: I thought that she was pure evil when I started reading the series and she is not the nicest girl, but she is in the gray zone for sure. Her upbringing and her life hasn't always been as easy as it may look. That doesn't make up for the horrible things she did or the way she acted. But did she do it? What all did she do?

June: Seeing someone struggle so hard with their bodies felt crazy to me. But the more I read from her perspective the more it made sense. It was her therapy. It's how she coped with the stress, just like Bette with her pills. I wonder if she did it? To gain the light? To be the best? Two birds one stone? I don't know.

Alec:  I thought that he was a bit to nice to each prima. Is that what he wants? To be with the star? I was impressed by how he helped her with her foot, but what is he going to do now that she may never dance again. What now? Was he in cahoots with Bette? Ugh I'm lost.

Henri: I think he pushed her. But I think that everyone pushed her, though, so not reliable. But would he do what they did to Cassie? How does he even feel about Cassie? Shit who is this guy?

Eleanor: I think that she's in cahoots with Henri. The way there were caught that one time. Shoot.

Liz: The idea that she felt the need to be continually thinner. That it would help her in all aspects. The idea that she had no one who would help her hurts me.

Will: He's gotta be in on it right? Like Henri might be using him now.

Cassie: How will she coming back affect everything.

Mr K: He's a little bit of a sick freak isn't he? The idea that he would fool with younger girls makes me so totally uncomfortable.

Sen-Jin: What an evil word that I refuse to type on the internet. Even if she's not gay or bi, why would she be such a jerk to June?

Jahye:  I wonder what the heck they're going to do together next. Will he break up with Sen-Jin, and get together with June? Or naw. I thought that he might just be around to make her eat based on her mother's demands.. thoughts?



Moments to Remember:
Final Line: "My spotlight."




Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: Gemina by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff

So this is the second book in the Illuminae Files series and I can finally understand what everyone has been talking about. I'd heard alot of things about this second book but mostly it was a companion novel type series. That I shouldn't expect the same characters and then wham! The authors hit me with multiple huge surprises. To start, I love the new characters they are incredible to read about. I thought that the continuation of the mixed media writing helps to tell this story even more. I also thought that it was interesting to see another type of ship in this world and a different life style. It made logical sense to follow up the first book with this one at Heimdall. 

Characters:
Hanna: I thought that it was such a different character to read from, other than Kady or Ezra. While in the first book they were badass in different ways. Hanna is physically bad ass. She was able to sort through the chaos that was happening to her and fight for those around her. I also thought that her media was helpful because of her journal entries. I can't wait to see where her story continues especially after the deaths she witnessed.

Nik: Nothing says unique quite like a space drug dealer. He was unique and in the end soft hearted. To see what he did for his brother and the crap he dealt with growing up. I do wonder how he turned out the way he did with his childhood. I thought his flirtation was cute and fun to get the story started.

Ella: I'm excited to see what happens with her and Kady on a team together. The two tech geniuses working together. I'm interested in knowing more about The House of Knives and how it started. She takes no shit and I can appreciate that.

Jackson: This little piece of work threw me for a loop. I didn't expect him to be the rapier. I thought that he would die and naturally Hanna would move onto Nik who she liked more anyways. Clearly. That way it wouldn't be cheating. But instead, he has to be a jerk who was playing with a girls feeling. I do hope that his death was slow and painful after all the things he put the station through.

Chief Grant: Did he get to see his daughter again? I sure hope so.

Falk: A villain who always smiles, even while killing is someone to be frightened off. I thought the way this character spoke was completely unique and kind of gave me a creep.

Kady: Yay. This girl is back!!! Awe hell yeah.

Aiden: I missed it/him. And his crazy ways. I'm excited to see what happens with him as well now that he has more power at his disposal. I thought that he might even out, but he's perfect. 

Leanne: The best kind of villain is the one who is at the top. Their pure evil without showing it. So what else did she do with her company and all this power? Who else will she punish? 


Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: The Winner's Crime by Marie Rutkoski

So as I mention in the review above, I find that I'm a victim of second book slump. Often when I read a second book I don't usually enjoy it nearly as much as the first book. But I thought that this book was even better than the first. It was amazing. The characters, the continual world building and the political drama. I found that the drama was the part that I enjoyed the most. The tension between the Emperor and the other countries was clear, but his use of strategy and revenge kept me on my toes. Seeing Dacra for the first time was really interesting and seeing their different culture described was incredible. I'm curious to see where the countries relationships go. I think that the dual perspective really helped build tension overall.

Characters:
Kestrel: I think that Kestrel really grew as a character.She had a lot more in her way, being right underneath the Emperor's nose. I thought that her attempt to forget Arin is very easy to relate to. Readers who are trying to get over a breakup although this is far more severe. I think that her emotions were portrayed amazingly well. I found that reading her perspective helped to build the story.

Arin: I thought that Arin as a leader was extremely interesting to read about. I thought that his changing mood helped this story grow. I won't lie that most of his choices broke my heart. I thought that his ever changing mind was causing the problems, but Kestrel's need to lie truly didn't help. I won't lie, I yelled when he went to Dacra, even though he was told not too. Ugh, just listen.  And now he thinks that she is perfectly safe, but she's going to prison so that's great.  

Jess: I think that her "betrayal" cut the deepest. The idea that Kestrel hurt her friends through it all and then still loved Arin is crazy, but the heart wants what it wants. Jess had every right not to see her friend ever again. 

Rolan: This is something that hit me deep. The fact that she didn't have the chance to explain or at least try and make amends for what she had done. To little to late. 

The Emperor: Villains grow in most stories, but he's a prime villain, one you love to hate. He's pure evil. I think that the way he uses those around him, even his son is amazing. It's horrible but truly brilliant to read. His waiting game he plays with revenge. 

Risha: The idea that she got sold to enemies is horrifying, but I can't wait to see what she does with her mastery of weapons.

Verex: He seemed fine, like he was growing on me but I wonder if he will always just be the emperor's puppet. I was very intrigued by his love for Risha and how that came to be. 

Tensen: I was sad to see him go, but I wonder how much he really told Arin. I know it wasn't a lot. I thought that he would give Arin her letter at least or explain that she was the spy in the end, but now everything is a huge mess.

The General: To betray your own daughter shows something horrible, like an evil form of loyalty.

Roshar: He is an interesting friend to have. I think that the way he tortured Arin was horrible, but also his job sooo... is it wrong that I kinda love him?

The Queen: I wonder how she will ally with Arin after he left in search for Kestrel. Although it's not looking like Kestrel will be making any appearances any time soon. That kiss was something interesting to read about.


Moments to Remember:
Pg. 315
"'Brother, you are mad,' said the queen.
'He loves me,' Roshar protested. The cub was sleeping, huddled against Roshar's leg.
'And when it has grown, and is large enough to eat a man?'
'Then I'll make Arin take care of him.'"

Final Line: "'I gave him nothing.'"


Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkoski

So I thought this was going to be a very cheesy romance. Something I wouldn't be interested in at all. But I freaking loved it! It was perfect for my mood and just picked me right up and I can't wait to read the next book ugh. The characters in this story, like damn. Not only that but the author's ability to highlight the differences in the two different cultures and to describe the invasion so well without information dumping. I loved it so much and I'm kind of fangirling over it all ready. I don't really know what to do. I mean I have the next book, but what will I do while I wait for the third one to ship. Ugh. My heart is breaking. But I'm so happy it wasn't instalove.

Characters:
Arin: I think that he's a really interesting love interest. To see someone who is a slave, and so strong throughout the struggles of his life was amazing. As mentioned on Thoughts on Tomes, seeing that the conquered nation was the more sophisticated ones was interesting to me. To have to see people live in his neighbours' house and his own house. I did think that his wit and how he fell in love with Kestrel and her wit rather than just using her as a pawn. 

Kestrel: She is an interesting main character to read from. Often in a rebellion situation the main character becomes a warrior, and while she is one, she uses strategy. I found that to be  unique and interesting. Her thought process and her ability to out think even her father's military ideas was amazing. That being said, to marry a man to save someone she obviously cares about is a strong move and the author does an excellent job of proving that she is a strong, badass woman. I look forward to seeing her future scheming.

Ronan: I was disappointed at how he asked Kestrel to marry him. I thought of him as a flirtatious friend, but now I wonder, does he suspect that Kestrel and Arin were lovers far before they were? Does he think that's the reason she said no? What's going to happen?!?

Jess: I didn't think that she had a lot of sustenance as a side character, but she shows a good example of what the mainstream society is looking towards. She was a good friend throughout and I wonder what will happen to her since the peace agreement (can we call it that?)

Irex: There is always a jerk, but some just take the cake. I won't lie, I was happy he died how he did. He deserved it. He was a sick little jerk and deserved whatever he had coming to him.

General Trajan: What will he think of his daughter's choices while he was gone? Will he be glad to be a member of the empirical family, or will he come to his senses? I thought at first that he seemed cruel, but I see he was the tough love character, which warmed my heart.

Cheat: This I did not see coming. I wasn't ready for it. I thought he simply hated her, but to see him attack her sexually was horrifying, it made me wonder how long he was thinking of attacking her.



Moments to Remember:
Final Line: "'You don't, Kestrel, even though the god of lies loves you.'"


Thanks for reading,
Sidny