Spoiler: Gild by Raven Kennedy

 This book was so much more than I thought I was getting into. If you are reading books from Kindle Unlimited, or at least if you're me you have certain expectations about what the book might include. I often expect romance or smut, and while this book had some it was more of a dark adult fantasy than those two things.

Does this book start in an orgy, yes it does. But it really makes sure you're comfortable with anything that could happen in the book. I think that the author did a wonderful job of making all the characters have an individual voice. 

Our main character is interesting to read from, as she's been with King Midas for the past ten years and has seen his rise to royalty. I'm sure we will hear more about that as we continue in the series.

 King Midas best not be our love interest because I will lose my ever-loving shit. What he offers is NOT love! 

Digby was one of my favorite characters and I'm optimistic that he might make a comeback.

Sail was such a heartwarming character I bawled when he died.

I'm interested in Captain Rip and what kind of Fae he will prove to be.

Highlights:

"'What is the king's favored doing out of her carriage?'

Saild scratches the back of his neck nervously. 'Well, see, what happened was... um, she-'"

-Pg. 228 

"It's the arrogance of men, to think so little of women. And it'll be their downfall too."

-Pg. 287

"I won't sit idly by and keep letting men crush me in their fists."

-Pg. 295

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Spoiler: Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

 I've got a lot of thoughts so buckle up!

The plot of this book isn't anything ridiculously groundbreaking for a YA fantasy, we have our chosen one, we have a villain, we have multiple love interests. Need I say more? What is fun is all the twists and turns that the story takes throughout. I loved the way I wouldn't expect what moment someone would show up, or what was about to happen at all moments.

Atmosphere: The plot of this book really brought the world to life, it really reminded me of Russian folklore that I've read, or ideas just based on the weather, and the descriptions of the palace. Lovely!

Writing: Nothing ground breaking, but so addicting and fun to read. Capture the world and the thoughts of our main character so well. Addicting! I was intrigued and I thought that conclusions made logical sense.

Characters: I already know that I'm shipping the wrong people. I know that I"m supposed to hate the Darkling. I acknowledge he is fucked up, a bad person and clearly the villain but what I will say might be controversial, he's still HOT. Reading the first part of this book I was like woah, this Darkling guy is so sexy, and then he just had to become the villain. RUDE. Mal is fine, a great friend to lover plot. I get it. He's loved her since the start. But where is the passion? Alina is fun to read from, but she'd better get tougher quickly! I just feel like she's got a lot of work to do to hide from the Darkling. 

Can't wait to continue the series,

Sidny

Spoiler: War Storm by Victoria Aveyard

This series was a favourite for the past few years. At least since the first one came out, I've been keeping up with them. Unfortunately, I didn't get to this one when it first came out and now I'm stuck here thinking that it just didn't end how I wanted it to this. This series has followed Mare Barrow, a girl who unbeknownst to her had immense power and stumbles into a lion's den. Beginning with betrayal, politics, and intense battles. I loved the series overall, but the ending wasn't strong enough for the series.

Characters:

Cal: I really loved his character, but the fact that he chose the crown, time and time again annoyed the shit out of me. I understand that he was trained to rule, and was tutored to believe that the nation would fall without a strong king, but he had been travelling with the new-bloods for some time. He had to understand that they could overthrow him in the same way the original silvers overthrew the reds. And maybe he was set in his ways, but he flipped pretty quick when the only other option was another set of royals trying to take over the nation. It seemed like a last resort move, not a change of heart. I do wonder how he works through these changes in the novella.

Maven: Here I thought he would be dealt with in the end. And in some ways he was. He was left to be killed off until the very end. I was hoping for a more epic battle as we saw throughout the rest of the series and instead it turned more into political warfare. Which is also great, when done well, this wasn't done the best. I was happy to see that Mare was able to fight her demons and end this monster.

Mare: I think that we really saw her grow throughout this revolution. I just wish that we were able to watch her grow a little bit further than the epilogue. I was glad that she was able to find peace and a group of people who she could relate too (other newbloods with similar powers).

Farley: She is my favourite in the series! She is such a badass. Has a baby, has to leave her to go to war. Does it and continually leads groups into battles without powers, just a badass with a shit ton of weapons. I just wish that she had been able to kill Tolly. 

Kilorn: I loved his attitude towards being left out and how he fought his hardest to protect Mare from all different kinds of pain. I was also glad that we didn't focus on her turning down his feelings. She was straight forward and let him know that she didn't feel that way, and while he had a moment to deal with that he didn't hold that against her! I loved that!

Iris: Another badass. I hope that in the novella bindup we get to see what happens with her and how she was raised. Because she knew how to blend in and how to make connections. I liked her, definitely interested in learning more about her in general. 

Evangeline: I think that she generally took up too much time. I liked seeing her perspective and personal rebellion, but other than the battle in Harbour Bay I didn't think that the pov was all the necessary. I do hope to see more interactions between her and Mare. 

Julian: I was glad to see that in general he sided with the Reds and Silvers in the interest of the kingdoms for a while I thought that he was denying their cause and I was pissed. I wish that we had gotten his perspective instead of Mavens to be completely honest.

Moments to Remember:

Pg. 7

"'Did you hear me, lighting girl?' She sniffs and forces a smile, turning back around to reveal a now very red and splotchy face. 'I said I'm proud of you. Write that down. Commit it to memory. You probably won't hear it again.'"

Pg. 58

"'Are you offering yourself for the job, Iris?' he clips, looking down his nose at me.

I tighten at such a foolish thought. 'I am a queen and princess, not a dog playing fetch.'

'Of course, you aren't a dog, my dear.' Maven offers a sneer, never breaking his stride. 'Dogs obey.'"

Pg. 326

"Somewhere, a few of our storms break off. Their job is to call up thunder. Cultivate lightning. Shock and awe the garrison, send them running. Make them think Barrow is here."

Pg. 428

"Farley doesn't rise to the bait this time.She keeps still, and Davidson slowly claps his hands, inclining his head toward the false king. 'I have to applaud you, Maven,' he says. The blank calm of the premier is a welcome respite from so much bile. 'I admit, I didn't expect such deft manipulations from someone so young. But I assume that's how your mother built you, didn't she?' he adds, looking to me."

Final Line: "I will go back."

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Spoiler: Three Dark Crowns Series by Kendare Blake

I haven't written one of these in a long time and this is kind of the space that I used to write my full feelings, spoilers included. It isn't my best writing work but its where I rant or gush about characters and scenes, etc. I just felt that after the conclusion of this series I need to write my feelings based on character dynamics that changed throughout the story.

Do I remember every tiny detail that went on in the series? Of course no because I read these over the course of a year and there was quite a gap for me between the third one and the finale in the series.

This series has such a great setting on the island, shrouded by mist and in more ways than one the mist starts to take on characteristics itself. It is interesting to explore the different realms on the island. It really gives a great impression of how each of our queens is raised and how different they are from each other. The idea of being on a magical, mysterious island is also so intriguing just in concept in all. 

I also think that the political aspect is just amazing in the series, the way these queens are thrown at each other to compete and win. Along with the families that come with this is just an amazing aspect. I hated the Aarons at the beginning of this series, but the more I heard about Natasha the more I started to respect her choices and how she raised Katharine. I only wish that she had helped her through the struggle with the dead queens, but I understand why her character had to be killed in order for other aspects to happen. I think that Mirabella had one of the most interesting childhoods. She was reckless with her abilities and also had a memory of her sibling so in order to understand her, you must understand that at the temple in some ways she was almost worshipped (or that's how I interpreted it).

Let's talk about some (not all ok, I'd be here forever) .... 

Characters:
Mirabella: Her ending wrecked me. I think that she was such a strong person physically as well as emotionally. She was the only one who was willing to put herself in such danger repeatedly to give love to siblings that didn't even remember her childhood. I think that watching her go from graceful Priestess pet to rebel and back to warrior was so interesting to watch. I just wish that she had met a different end, but I do understand why this hand to happen. 


Arsinoe: I'm just going to say it. I wish that she would have taken the throne. I'm under the opinion those who don't want to rule often do the best job. Because they are grateful and understanding to those who they rule over. I do wonder what will happen in her life. Would she end up birthing triplets in the long run?

Katharine: She was absolutely terrifying, but she was also the underdog, so it makes you wonder how she would have lived throughout the storyline without the dead queens. And how much of her personality in the last 3 books were based strictly on those inhabiting her? I think it started slow and built to be out of control. In some ways, I was grateful at how she ended, while in others I was sad.

Juless: I didn't like that she was the one who ended up being the leader. She just didn't seem to have the conviction for it. She didn't stand for what she believed in frequently enough it bothered me. I do like her as a character and Camden as well, I just wish she hadn't gotten the ending she had. I mean she was happy, but not what I wanted personally. 

Pietyr: Who would have thought at the end of this whole thing I would like this asshole? I thought from the start that he was a piece of junk up until the end of Book 3 and through until the tower scene. It was a true turning point for him.

Billy: I hoped for more for him, but throughout the series he had to become the "man" of his house back on the mainland. That being said he did fight beside Arsinoe through so many things that were certainly not his fight. 

Joseph: His death still hurts me. 

Overall this is a great damn series. If you've read it fully let me know your thoughts down below.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Spoiler: Illuminae Series by Amy Kaufman and Jay Kristoff

   

After taking some time to think about my thoughts on this series overall I can say that it is one of my favourite series of all time! There are so many positive notes on the series: the characters, the style of writing (documents, IMs, etc) and the overall plot. The only cons I can think of over the top of my head is the fact that some of the conversations between the teens were so obviously adults writing it (a little over the top). But even then I was never disappointed in plot or use of art to depict certain aspects of the plot. 

Characters:
Ezra: I really liked his character especially watching him experience agism with the other people on the ship. I wasn't surprised to see that older adults wouldn't want to follow him. I can't blame them and can relate in my field of work (and I'm 24 not 18). I think that his romance with Kady is incredible and I was so worried about his safety as per usual.

Kady: She is just a geek badass that I can get behind. An amazing role model for young women who are into programming and computer sciences. I loved her and I was so happy to see her character in full again. I will say watching her make mistakes with AI was hard. And seeing her grow a relationship with Aidan only to have it end in such an intense climax was really hard to stomach. 

Hannah: Now she's a badass fighting and tactical genius. I just think that the woman in this series is so well written! I love the way that they kick as and take names in so many different ways. I also enjoyed that she and Nik didn't have an instantaneous relationship and that the authors gave her time to grieve because that's something that would be realistic to the characters and the situation. 

Nik: He is my favourite male love interest in the series. I won't lie I love the bad boy vibe, the misunderstood bad boy with the heart of gold is kind of my shit. I loved that he gave Hannah time to grieve and even was willing to let her go if she wanted. While he flirted he didn't push her in any direction per se.

Ella: Again, another badass female doing her thing. I think that her disabilities are truly her abilities, due to the fact that she lives so much of her life thanks to technology, she is fantastic with it. I was happy to see her regain a father figure and a family of sorts. 

Asha: Another badass, but not because she was trained with technology, tactical fighting, or strategy. She is a badass because she chose to rebel and give anything she can to fight against her oppressors. I loved her characters compassion towards those she cared for and her strength in her fight for those around her.

Rhys: I could do without him. I think he was a good look at how the military doesn't always know what's going on in different factions and don't always agree with what they sign up for. I do think that we could have done without the romance between him and Asha, but it was ok.

Aidan: We could argue about whether or not it is a character but I do think that he is. I honestly think that he gained the ability to care about those around him. Especially Kady, obviously. I also think that while it is viewed as heartless the action he took was for the greater good and no one else would have done it. I hoped that he wouldn't have to but it is in who he is. (Also I know that Aidan is genderless, I just imagine the voice to be more masculine). 

I really loved this series and recommend it for anyone who is even a little interested in it. What are your favourite parts of the series?

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: Queens of Fennbirn by Kendare Blake

 So let's just start by saying that I absolutely love this series. It is dark, political and fantasy. It was interesting to see the past in this world.

The Young Queens:
I really enjoyed that the queens were young enough to not quite understand what was going to happen between them. I didn't realize that they didn't know from birth what their roles were going to be. Watching them together, then watching them split apart was hard, but important to better understand their characters in the main series. I especially enjoyed Mirabella's storyline because it helps us to understand why she still remembered her sisters so vividly. It was horrible but beautiful. Exactly what I've come to expect from the series (I mean this in the best possible way. 

The Oracle Queen: 
I think that this is one of my favourite novellas to have read in any series. There are so many hints dropped in the main storyline about the "Mad Oracle Queen" who is the reason that any Oracle queen born is put to death. Watching how this queens story unfolded was heart-wrenching. I can't imagine what she must have gone through in her last years in the tower. It also helped us better understand the families that remain in great powerful houses under the queens. 

I enjoyed these novellas immensely and can't wait to finish the series and see how Kendare Blake manages to wrap the story. That being said, I know that I will be sad when it has come to a close.


Final Line: "'I do like it, Gilbert. I love it.'"

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Spoiler: War of the Cards by Colleen Oakes

I've finally finished this series that I was supposed to reread through last month and I can't believe it took me so long. I really enjoyed this last instalment. I expected it to lead up to the battle and that be the end of it, but I appreciated that the author put the action closer to the middle and wrapped the story with important plot points. There were times where the main character just seemed to be a little too naive even for me. That being said I was proud when she would realize something or research it for herself. I loved the different world and the notable nods to the original literature. Especially the end one.

Characters:
Dinah: I think the fact that she has that deeply embedded rage really makes the story what it is. The idea that she could just snap at any moment is terrifying both to her as well as the reader. It makes you wonder how she would be capable of ruling at some points and at others helps you acknowledge her fear of being on the throne at some points.

Wardley: My heart broke so soundly for him. I do wish that he had just told her. As per usual lack of communication lead to the death of someone's loved one. That being said, it would be safe to assume that she would have reacted the same way. Also if he can't even look at her how did they make 3 children....?

Cheshire: This scheming mother f**cker really twisted his way right into power. I'm not terribly surprised just disappointed. Wouldn't it have been easier to just manipulate the king and Vittorie? Not to mention did he not think that she would ever find out like she's a little naive but not dumb.

Mundoo: I liked his character, his strength for his people really came through. Overall their culture was so interesting to me. 

Bah-kan: I actually bawled when he died and I didn't expect that at all. He might have been my favourite character in this series.

Vittorie: I felt for her, but really to lay with Wardley was asking for it. Like you couldn't resist and just try to leave the palace to get away from him. I just didn't understand that choice tbh. 

Sir Gorrann: His story just hit me right in the heart more so than Alice and Wardley. It was far more important to me. 


Final Line: "But for her daughter's sake, Dinah prayed that this time, love would be enough to quench the flame."


Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Reread Thoughts: Outlander by Dianna Gabaldon

THIS POST CONTAINS SPOILERS
Title: Outlander
Author: Diana Gabaldon
Series/Standalone: Outlander Series (Book #1)
Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance, Adult
Pages: 640
Publisher: Doubleday Canada
Year Published: 1991
Format: Paperback Coy (Own it)
First Line: "People disappear all the time."

"Claire Randall is leading a double life. She has a husband in one century, and a lover in another...

In 1945, Claire Randall, a former combat nurse, is back from the war, and reunite with her husband on a second honeymoon- when she innocently touches a boulder in one of the ancient stone circles that dot the British Isles. Suddenly she is a Sassenach- an "outlander"- in a Scotland torn by war and raiding border clans in the year of our Lord... 1743.

Hurled back in time by forces she cannot understand, Claire's destiny in soon inextricably intertwined with Clan MacKenzie and the forbidden Castle Leoch. She is catapulted without warning into the intrigues of lairds and spies that may threaten her life... and shatter her heart. For here, James Fraser, a gallant young Scots warrior, shows her a passion so fierce and a love so absolute that Claire becomes a woman torn between fidelity and desire... and between two vastly different men in two irreconcilable lives."

My New Rating: 4.75/5

This seems like such a minor change and if you don't know me I'm guessing you think this is ridiculous. But here's the facts, I stand by my 5-star books and usually find that I rate them the same after a reread. This was the first time in a long time that I found it just wasn't quite as good the second time around. I have a few reasons that I lowered the rating just this tiny bit. One was that the element of surprise obviously wasn't as there for me as it might be for someone reading the novel the first time. Granted there were many aspects I didn't remember. Mostly because so many things happen in this novel, it's easy to forget an event here or there as there are so many things that happen. That is another reason that I marked it down a bit, it seemed a bit overwhelming with how many things go on. And I found that might have been the reason that I didn't see the problematic aspects of the story. There definitely are some. There are rape, assault, violence and many other aspects that should probably be warned about but every reviewer will likely tell you this. I think another aspect to keep in mind is the time period of the novel. It takes place in 1744 so the things that are described likely were the reality for many women. I understand the upset, but I think that the time period justifies most of the things that were happening in the novel. 
After all these jumbled thoughts I'd just like to say that I plan on continuing with the series in April and would recommend it to romance lovers and historical fiction fans as long as you can handle the problematic aspects.

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: The You I've Never Known by Ellen Hopkins

So let's start this off by saying that I rarely read the synopsis in a book and I'm certainly glad that I didn't in this one. After writing it out I see that any idea of mystery or wonder is totally explained in the description. I found it extremely frustrating that this is the case. I understand that the author is using her voice to describe a situation that in some ways was own voices. A terrifying tale to say the least, but this is more common than some may think. That being said, as someone who works in childcare, I understand how these things could happen.

Overall I just found this story to be too drawn out for me. I enjoyed the verse, but it didn't have the same effect on me that it has in some other books by the author. I also found that the characters were difficult to connect with. 

Characters:
Ariel/Casey: I think that her character is difficult to read from. Watching her walk on eggshells around her father and talk about her love for him was difficult to stomach, but that's the only life she remembers. Seeing her develop relationships with those around her was also good, but just not in depth as I thought that it would be. 

Jason: I do believe that he has a mental disorder. I'm not sure what, but the way he manipulates and uses Ariel/Casey against Maya is horrifying to think about. That and the way he is able to lie so convincingly made me extremely uncomfortable. I do wonder what happened to all the women he used and abused along the way.

Maya: I enjoyed her end journal entry's to be able to better understand her life with and without her daughter. The hope she lives with is amazing. 

Monica: Her character wasn't as fleshed out as I hoped it to be. At some points, she was spoken as this kick-ass girl who knew who she was and other times she almost appeared meek. 

Gabe: I liked him, but probably based on every basic guy I've ever met.

Hillary: I'm more interested in her life. Was she running away on her horse? What is she going to do now that she can't ride? Does she miss it? Like we're not going to talk about this?


Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys

So this book is marketed as a mystery and I would have to disagree with that. I think that this is a wonderful book that follows characters that you grow to love so incredibly quickly. As I was telling my boyfriend about the storyline I kept getting drawn into all the characters and how well developed they were. I also loved the setting the idea of New Orleans after the war and the difference between the Quarter and the rich areas. The narrators had wonderful accents that were natural and not overdone. The whole book was very well written. 
I will warn anyone going into this book that while it is marketed as a mystery, I wouldn't say that that is it's the strongest aspect. 

Characters (excuse the spelling, it was an audiobook):
Jo: I love that she is willing to push herself to be more than anyone expects, she is smart, cunning and ambitious in the best ways possible. But she doesn't push it too much. She wants what she deserves and doesn't use people to get it. I was annoyed that she didn't just go to Willie when she got the mark, but in some ways, I understand why she felt she had to do it herself.

Jesse: I like his character overall, but I'd be lying if I said that he was my first choice. I thought that he was a good fit for Jo because of their backgrounds and mutual understanding. I think that he is also willing to push Jo to be her best, and I hope that he will do the same for himself.

Patrick: His character was one of my favourites. I felt for him and his relationship with those around him. His fear about what people would do if they found out. And the loss of his father was almost too much to handle. I hope that he played the piano on the world stage at some point.

Willie: Now at the start I expected that I would hate her character and I didn't understand her attitude towards others, but as I continued I realized she was hard because she had to be. She felt as though she had to shut some out to be strong, that being said it didn't mean she didn't love anybody. Her relationships with some of the girls was so much stronger than I expected and I loved her. Up until the end.

Cokey: He's another character I just loved. He was well fleshed out and although he had a gambling problem he wanted to do good for those he cared about. I think that his singing was one of the best parts in the audiobook.

Charlie: I wonder about his life and how he got to know Willie so well. Were they just friends in the Quarter or had they known each other since he opened up shop? I wish that he hadn't met his end so soon, but I'm grateful that it was peaceful.

Loius: The things people will do to their own children never fail to frighten me. The way she acted as though she was nothing hurt me so deeply. 

Cincinnati: A sick freak who knows how to woo those who want his cash. Just sad that in the long run, he didn't end up behind bars.

Lockwell (I can't remember his name): By far the villain in this book. His character was well written and it made my skin crawl. To know the things he wanted to do to young women and how he thought he was entitled to do just that was horrible to read about. But I think extremely important. 

Charlotte: I hope that their friendship continue into the future. Because we all know you can't judge someone by their parents. 

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: Invictus by Ryan Graudin

So this book was one that drew me in by the cover and once I realized who the author was I was super interested in reading it. I loved the storyline and the characters overall. What really interested me though, was the idea of time travel and being born outside of time. That really kept me interested throughout the story. I will say that the twist of having different universes really wasn't what I expected and I had trouble getting behind that idea. That is the reason that my rating was on the lower side.

Character:
Farway: I think that his character impressed me. He was able to move on from defeat, with the help of someone fudging with his past and present, but he was able to find a way to follow his dreams. I also appreciated his willingness to sacrifice himself for his friends and the future. I do wonder what the future will hold for him and Priya.

Priya: Priya was probably my favourite character. She just had a fire that the others lacked to a point. She pushed for what she believed in and stood by Far no matter what but pushed him to be the best him. I think she stood apart from him enough though that she wasn't just Far's girlfriend. She was important in her own right.

Eliot: I don't know how I feel about her. I think that she was doing the best that she could but she annoyed me to no end if we're being honest. Even when she came back in the epilogue I was just annoyed.

Imogen: I think that she is the more like me than I'd care to admit. Her love for the fuzzy creatures was so sweet and really expanded her as a character. I also loved that she was able to keep fun logs, she gave the events of the book touches of humour in times of stress.

Gram: I'd be lying if I said I understood the logic of his brain, but I did appreciate his character for being able to fix problems with numbers and logic. Otherwise Far probably would have died and the fade still would have existed.


Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: Half Bad by Sally Green

This story really caught me off guard. I found it interesting to read about the good and evil in this world and then those who have no idea what's going on. The world building in this series was interesting and wonderful for me. A good mix of fantasy and reality. I was also interested in the Black Witches and how their world works. The world of the White Witches is easy enough to understand. I'm looking forward to further exploring the both in the next novel.

Characters:
Nathan: He's seen a lot for his short amount of time on this earth. It seems that neither group is interested enough in him to help him. The white witches want to use him and well the black witches seem to hate Marcus, so why help his child? I also wonder what he will do about Annalise and Gabriel.

Arran: I hope he does have an opportunity to live a happy life and almost that he forgets about Nathan. He was one of the only ones who were kind to Nathan. Maybe they will catch up in the future.

Annalise: I wonder about what will become of her. Will she be left there, sleeping forever? Or will he manage to free her, and then will she ever truly understand him and his life?

Mercury: What will she do with people onto her? Will she continue to hunt down Marcus for her sister? And what is the story behind that?

Marcus: What was his life like and why did he become the way he did? How did he meet Nathan's mother? I have so many questions.

Gabriel: I loved him. To think that he could transform into anything and chose to be just an average person is strange. It's ridiculous that he was stuck like that. But where is he now?

Rose: Her death hit me harder than I expected she was one of a kind, willing to work against her own.


Moments to Remember:

Final Line: "Gabriel."

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler:Caraval by Stephanie Garber

This book was surprising to me. I wasn't a huge fan of the Night Circus and I knew that this had been compared to it (that being said I didn't hate the Night Circus it was just ok for me). But this book has a very different element than the Night Circus. We are a player in a mysterious tradition on a seemingly magical island. It also appears that the more we watched the story unfolding the more we saw how everyone was a freaking liar and a player. No one told the truth and did what they were expected to do. I enjoyed the setting and look forward to reading the next book in the series.

Characters:
Scarlett: I understood her need to leave her home, especially after seeing how manipulative and abusive her father was. But the idea of marrying someone who could be worse than her father was horrifying. I don't even want to think about that. I also think that she got a little in over her head during the "game" especially in her relationship with Julian. It was frustrating. I'm curious to see how their relationship plays out.

Tella: I'll be the first to admit that I underestimated her. I thought that she was more beauty than brains, but by the end of this first book, she proved to be daring and intelligent. She worked hard to get herself off the island and to save her sister. I worry about the note I read by the end of the book. What else could she owe and where in the world is her mother?

Julian: His character was frustrating to me. I wanted to love him, as I'm usually fans of mysterious seemingly bad boys who have a heart of gold. But I just couldn't get on board with their romance. The more Scarlett fell for him the more I felt like she was making a mistake. 

Legend: What is his deal and what really happened over the years of his performances? Why did he chose to be a great performer rather than have the love of his life?

Dante: Will we know his truth?

Marcello: He's deserved how everyone left him and he deserves to lose his fortune. He's rude and a terrible father.

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: All the Ugly and Wonderful Things by Bryn Greenwood

Before I even start this book is very controversial, I'd say extremely. There are warnings I left in the review, but here are some more for assault, abuse, drug use, etc.
This book follows the story of Wavy from the age of eight to her early twenties. It follows her through the life of her parents (drug users and dealers) and how she ends up in a relationship with Kellen, an ex-con who works for her father.

Characters:
Wavy: I can see how she had to grow up so quickly in the situation she was in. It was heartbreaking to watch her be dumped on whoever was most willing to take her, when she was trying to take care of herself. I can also see how Kellen's kindness appealed to her. I'm not saying what happened in their... relationship (??) is ok, but I can understand how it happened.

Donnal: I would be interested in more of his backstory and some of the things I'm sure he saw at the "ranch." Did he ever try anything that he shouldn't have? What did he do to cope?

Kellen: I just wish that he had been able to say no, at least until she was of age. I know that she acted a lot older than she was, but it doesn't make it ok.

Amy: I liked that she showed who she truly was before the book ended, maybe it will shock her mother more than Kellen and Wavy did.

Renee: She was clearly someone who needed Wavy and who Wavy needed in return. I see that they in many ways grew into adults together.

Liam: Sick.

Val: Was she always like this or did the drug use make her who we saw in this novel.


Moments to Remember:

Final Line: "She had grown."


Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: Four Weeks, Five People by Jennifer Yu

I think that I explained my thoughts in the review about how this book probably would have been 5/5 stars if I had been in the right mindset. It was really promising to start but I found the potential romances to be slightly annoying. That being said I enjoyed the diversity of the characters and their illnesses. It wasn't stereotypical, as the characters were not miraculously cured. It really makes you think about the time it takes to feel better and how it isn't a forever cure in most cases. 

Characters:
Adam: He broke my heart into a million pieces. I understood how he felt so helpless and how he wanted to get better but wasn't able to do the follow through because the idea of being better was amazing, but the getting there was harder than expected. I would hope with time he would be able to recover.

Stella: I think that I related to her the most. The feeling of giving up and rationalizing whether recovering is even worth it. I'm viewed often as being the most pessimistic in my friend group.  Also, the way she reacted to those around her, she seemed callous but the more you got to know her the more you realized that she was too scared to become attached.

Clarissa: I was very interested in her perspective, especially since at the start of the story her OCD was influencing her life so negatively, but as I read, I was a little disappointed that it seemed her relationship with Ben is what really helped her. At the same time, I think that being around people who have similar conditions.

Ben: I was also curious about the way his emotions flowed. I was curious to see how that would pan out in the everyday world and continue to wonder about this.

Mason: This is something I think that was hard to swallow, his character flaws are actually mental illness symptoms.

Jessie: I'm not sure I agree with her tactics of breaking Stella out of her shell, but it seemed to work better for her than the hippie-dippie stuff. 

Josh: I think his hippie ways kind of made me happy. He really believed in what he was doing and that it would work to help these teens. 

Moments to Remember:

Final Line: "And maybe, for now, that's good enough for me."

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: Champion by Marie Lu

This series threw me for a loop. The characters, the setting and the romance was interesting to me, to say the least. I really enjoyed the characters change in pace and the way they were pulled apart. I also loved seeing other parts of the world. Antartica was amazing to see, and an interesting concept. The romance grew on me a lot. At first, I thought it was unnecessary but the more the romance was proved to me the more I wanted to fight for it.

Characters:
Day: I loved how his character handled things. I would do the same. It's easier to leave people behind without them ever knowing than telling them something that would break their heart. I was also glad that he took time to grow into himself, but it was heartbreaking to see that he didn't remember June for so long.

June: I think that she grew alot in this story. She had to understand the politics of the world, and she tried to be with someone other than Day and it just wasn't meant to be. She is an amazing character and I would be interested in a prequel story. 

Anden: I didn't appreciate how he was so much like his father at some points in the story. I think he did what he thought was right. Although he and June didn't work out, I'm sure he would find someone else willing to be with him.

Eden: His ability to put others first was unmatched throughout this story. Even though he knew it would put him in danger he was willing to be experimented on again for the greater good.

Tess: I'm glad that she grew up and we got to see her as a more mature adult. I strongly appreciated it.

Spoiler: Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

This was a great first installment in this series. I really loved the characters in this book, and the settings. It was interesting to see how the past compared to the present Orisha and hopefully the future. The twists in this book also got me. 
Overall the magic system was amazing. I wish I was a Tider.

Characters:
Zelie: I loved how strong she was and how she was willing to risk everything for those she loves. She is powerful and strong like her mother. Her struggles hurt my heart, and I was ready to cheer her on through everything. I really did believe in her relationship with Inan, and it was heartbreaking to see how it fell apart.

Amari: I think that she was strong in her own way. I agreed with how Zelie thought of her at the start of the story, but seeing how she was raised and the things she put up with, I think she might have been the strongest character in this story overall. And she was willing to sacrifice her way of life to help others.

Inan: I really thought that he was ready to commit to a new world where Maji and non-maji. Yet he continued to betray himself and the maji again and again. I'm also not sure if he will stay dead or if he will come back to continue the series. 

Tzain: I hope that he and Amari will continue to have this sweet relationship they've been working on, but I'm worried that the loss of Baba will be too much.

Zu: Her loss hit me the hardest out of all the losses (other than Baba), because of how much she believed in the world she was creating. She didn't run from those who stood in her way, she protected those who stood behind her.

King: His fear was based on his past which I would be interested in hearing about his first family and what happened with the Maji clans and the royalty of the past.


Moments to Remember:
Pg. 395
"'You never give up on her,' I shout after him. 'Never. Not once. Even when she cost you everything, you're always by her side.'"

Pg. 513
"I am a princess. A queen.
I am the Lionaire."

Final Line: "Now let's rise."

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: Delirium by Lauren Oliver

This concept was so interesting to me, but after hearing overall series reviews I wasn't sure about whether or not to pick up this series. I really thought that this first book was a great entry into the world and the quotes really made a huge impact on the story overall and gave a look into how the world had changed. 
I also appreciated the idea of the Wilds. So excited to see that setting change in the next book.

Characters:
Lena: I think that her fear was totally valid throughout the story. If you had been taught you're a whole life that loving someone was deadly, you would stray far away from caring about anyone. Which is maybe why I was confused by how emotional she was with Hana. Obviously, it was a different love, but it still counts. Excited to see where her life goes, but heart broken about Alex.

Alex: Something has got to give. He has to have some kind of past we don't know about. I also think that we need to be given his perspective. If that's even a thing anymore. Also he has to come back right? Right?

Hana: I hope that she ends up happy. She deserves more than the life she's taking.

Gracie: She is the character that made me feel the most. I think the way she copes is interesting, and also could be a side effect of lack of love and caring as a child.

Rachel: I wonder what would have happened to her if she had never had the procedure.


Moments to Remember:

Final Line: "They cannot take it."

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: Prodigy by Marie Lu

I was totally prepared to give up on this series based on the use of romance in the first installment but this book just really made me wonder about the world and the characters. I'm curious about where everyone will end up and how the colonies became the way they are. I'm really interested to see how June and Day manage to get through his announcement and how she will find out about his illness.

Characters: 
Day: I liked his story arch more near the end of this novel, mostly because of his super intense emotions that he felt for June. It seemed like his love for her was being forced, it just didn't seem natural at all. It was unfortunate. But the more I read, the more I was ok with how the character's relationship developed. I was disappointed in the way he handled his situation with Tess. 

June: I still think that she's a total badass, but I just couldn't relate to how she didn't understand what it was like to poor. It was like she just opened her mouth and shouted repeatedly "I was rich. I'm rich. RICH!" After she saw how the colonies were, I think that it really opened her eyes, that the grass is rarely greener, if anything it's about the same.

Thomas: His character changes was also something I wasn't ready for. The idea that he was gay and wasn't able to show his love for Metais was heartbreaking. But then seeing that he was ordered to kill his potential lover, damn it hit hard. I'm curious to see if he comes into play again after Day and June switched sides.

Tess: Man that friendzone was pretty rough.

Kaede: I was surprised how upset I was that she died. She gave up everything to save the Patriots and the Republic. To give the people another chance at life.

Razor: He was suspicious but I didn't expect him to be working in conjunction with the Senate. After hearing this though, many of my feelings of suspicion were justified.

Anden: I'm wondering what is going to happen during his reign. Will his affection for June ruin his chance of ruling without feel, or will he turn against the people if she rejects him.


Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau

This is such a popular story from my middle school, and I appreciate it overall. I think that this is one of the first dystopian books I ever read, and it is an easy read that I would suggest for those in middle school, but it is enjoyable for older readers as well. I can't wait to see how the author takes our characters above ground. 

Characters:
Doon:I think that his need to become a hero is interesting and makes me wonder how he will cope in a new area where no one knows him. And where his finding the exit might be something negative rather than positive.

Lina: I wonder how running in the great outdoors will affect her. And how losing her grandmother so suddenly might have a backlash.

The Mayor: What a guy? I can understand how he did what he did when he believed that there was no hope.

Grandma: Hurts my heart.

Looper: I'd like to think that this wouldn't be a likely trait that people would develop but I wouldn't be surprised if many people took advantage of the system.

Thanks for reading,
Sidny