Book Review: This Song Will Save Your Life by Leila Sales

Title: This Song Will Save Your Life

Author: Leila Sales

Series/Standalone: Standalone

Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary

Pages: 291

Publisher: Square Fish

Year Published: 2013

Format: Audiobook 

"A powerful coming-of-age story about an outsider who finds herself when she enters the underground music scene. 

Making friends has never been Elise Dembowski's strong suit. All throughout her life, she's been the butt of every joke and the outsider in every conversation. When a final attempt at popularity fails, Elise nearly gives up. 

Then she stumbles upon a warehouse party where she meets Vicky, a girl in a band who accepts her; Char, a cute, yet mysterious disc jockey; Pippa, a carefree spirit from England; and most importantly a love for DJing."

My Rating: 4/5

I'm always hesitant when reading a young adult contemporary story because I have aged out of the targeted market for this book. But reading one like this reminds you of the feelings you had during those formative years. The bullying that Elise experiences is something I have witnessed in high school and being a childcare worker something I've done my best to monitor and dissuade. The idea that music is the way our main character can relate to the world is relatable and the family elements of this story are heartwarming. I would strongly recommend reading this if the synopsis interests you even remotely, whether or not you are in the targeted demographic. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny 

Book Review: Ruby Red by Kerstin Gier

Title: Ruby Red

Author: Kerstin Gier

Series/Standalone: Edelstein Trilogie (Book #1)

Genre: Young Adult, Science Fiction, Romance

Pages: 322

Publisher: Square Fish

Year Published: 2009

Format: Audiobook 

"Although I had never seen him before, I recognized him immediately. I'd have known his voice anywhere. This was the guy I'd seen on my last journey back in time.

Or more precisely, the one who'd kissed my doppelganger while I was hiding behind the curtain in disbelief.

Sixteen-year-old Gwen lives with her extended- and rather eccentric- family in exclusive London neighborhood. in spite of her ancestors' peculiar history, she's had a relatively normal life so far. The time-traveling gene that runs like a secret thread through the female half of the family is supposed to have skipped over Gwen, so she hasn't been introduced to 'the mysteries' and can spend her time hanging out with her best friend, Lesly. It comes as an unwelcome surprise when she starts taking sudden, uncontrolled leaps into the past. 

She's totally unprepared for time travel, not to mention all that comes with it: fancy clothes, archaic manners, a mysterious secret society, and Gideon, her time-traveling counterpart. He's obnoxious, a know-it-all, and possibly the best-looking guy she's seen in any century..."

DNF @ 80%

My Rating: 1/5

This was something that had been on my TBR for so long that I thought I should get to it to see if it was a series that I want to continue with or if it just wasn't for me. It wasn't what I wanted it to be. I felt like things were supposed to be happening but nothing was happening and we were already almost at the end of the book and nothing was happening. I felt like it was a lead-up to nothing. Super boring. Wouldn't recommend reading now when YA has expanded so much.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo

Title: Crooked Kingdom

Author: Leigh Bardugo

Series/Standalone: Six of Crows Series (Book #2)

Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult, 

Pages: 561

Publisher: Square Fish

Year Published: 2016

Format: Paperback Copy (Own It)

First Line:  "Retvenko leaned against the bar and tucked his nose into his dirty shot glass."

"Welcome to the world of the Grisha.

Kaz Brekeer and his crew of deadly outcasts have just pulled off a heist so daring even they didn't think they'd survive. But instead of divvying up a fat reward, they're right back to fighting for their lives.

Double-crossed and badly weakened, the crew is low on resources, allies and hope. As powerful forces from around the world descend on Ketterdam to root out the secrets of the dangerous drug known as jurda parem, old rivals and new enemies emerge to challenge Kaz's cunning and test the team's fragile loyalties. 

A war will be waged on the city's dark and twisting streets- a battle for revenge and redemption that will decide the fate of the Grisha world."

My Rating: 5/5

When I was reading this book all I could think was, "People really think the first one is better than this one." I thought that this one outranked the first one in many ways, but this is also because I don't love books with journeys. I preferred the second one for this distinct reason. Between great characters, a fully fleshed-out city and the twists of a lifetime how could this not be a 5-star book. I adore this series and I can't wait to read King of Scars. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Paper Wishes by Lois Sepahban

Title: Paper Wishes

Author: Lois Sepahban

Series/Standalone: Standalone

Genre: Middle Grade, Historical Fiction,

Pages: 192

Publisher: Square Fish

Year Published: 2016

Format: Paperback Copy (Own It)

"A moving debut novel about a girl whose family is relocated to a Japanese internment camp during World War II- and the dog she has to leave behind.

Ten-year-old Manami did not realize how peaceful her family's life on Bainbridge Island was until the day it all changed. It's 1942, after the attack on Pearl Harbor, and Manami and her family are Japanese American, which means that the government says they must leave their home by the sea and join other Japenese Americans at a prison camp in the desert. Manami is sad to go, but even worse is that they are going to have to give her dog, Yujiin, to a neighbor to take care of Manami decides to sneak Yujiin under her coat, but she is caught and forced to abandon him. She is devastated but clings to the hope that somehow Yujiin will find his way to the camp and make her family whole again. It isn't until she finds a way to let go of her guilt that Manami can accept all that has happened to her family."

My Rating: 4/5

I think this book needs to be in every school and readily available to all children. I think that this is a story that I didn't know a lot about as a Canadian, but the more I have read about these events, the more heartbroken I become. I feel that this is something that was overlooked for so long, but it's something that we all need to remember to make sure that these events do not repeat themselves. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Ruin and Rising by Leigh Bardguo

Title: Ruin and Rising

Author: Leigh Bardugo

Series/Standalone: The Shadow and Bone Trilogy

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy

Pages: 417

Publisher: 2017

Year Published: Square Fish

Format: Paperback Copy

First Line: "The monster's name was Izumrud, the great worm, and there were those who claimed he had made the tunnels that ran beneath Ravka." 

"The Darkling rules Ravka from his shadow throne.

Now the nation's fate rests with a broken Sun Summoner, a disgraced tracker, and the shattered remnants of a once-great magical army.

Deep in an ancient network of tunnels and caverns, a tweaked Alina must submit the dubious protection of the Apparat and the zealots who worship her as a Saint. Yet her plans lie elsewhere, with the hunt for the elusive firebird and the hope that an outlaw prince still survives.

Alina will have to forge new alliances and put aside old rivalries as she and Mal race to find the last of Morozova's amplifiers. But as she begins to unravel the Darkling's secrets, she reveals a past that will forever alter her understanding of the bond they share and the power she wields. The firebird is the one thing that stands between Ravka and destruction- and claiming it could cost Alina the very future she's fighting for."

My Rating: 4/5

This happens a lot for me in a series. The final book just isn't what I expected and while I liked this one, and thought that it made some really great plot choices, the final conflict resolution just wasn't what I wanted from the series. The characters were dynamic and interesting. I am so excited to continue reading Leigh Bardugo's backlist and I'm glad I started with this series. It was such a fun ride, and a great YA read without being too much of a throwback.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Siege and Storm by Leigh Bardugo

Title: Siege and Storm

Author: Leigh Bardugo

Series/Standalone: The Shadow and Bone Trilogy (Book #2)

Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult

Pages: 435

Publisher: Square Fish

Year Published: 2013

Format: Paperback Copy (Own it)

First Line: "The boy and the girl had once dreamed of ships. long ago, before they'd ever seen the True Sea."

"Hunted across the True Sea, haunted by the lives she took on the Fold, Alina must try to make a life with Mal in an unfamiliar land. She finds starting new is not easy while keeping her identity as the Sun Summoner a secret. She can't outrun her past or her destiny for long.

The Darkling has emerged from the Shadow Fold with a terrifying new power and a dangerous p.an that will test the very boundaries of the natural world. With the help of a notorious privateer, Alina returns to the country she abandoned, determined to fight the forces gathering against Ravka. But as her power grows, Alina slips deeper into the Darkling's game of forbidden magic, and farther away from Mal. Somehow, she will have to choose between her country, her power, and the love she always thought would guide her-- or risk losing everything to the oncoming storm."

My Rating: 3.75/5

This really suffered from middle book syndrome for me. I felt that the start of the book had a few twists and actions, but as the book progressed I saw some of the things that were coming. Which lessened the entertainment value for me. I also didn't like the story that some of our side characters took. I am extremely curious to see how this trilogy originally wrapped up. I can't wait to see where the world goes. I look forward to watching the show and finding out where our characters go. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

Title: Shadow and Bone

Author: Leigh Bardugo

Series/Standalone: The Shadow and Bone Trilogy (Book #1)

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy,

Pages: 358

Publisher: Square Fish

Year Published: 2012

Format: Paperback Copy (Own It)

First Line: "The servants called them malenchki, little ghosts, because they were the smallest and the youngest, and because they haunted the Duke's house like giggling phantoms, darting in and out of the rooms., hiding in cupboards to eavesdrop, sneaking into the kitchen to setal the last of the summer peaches."

"Surrounded by enemies, the once-great nation of Ravka has been torn into two by the Shadow Fold, a swath of near impenetrable darkness crawling with monsters who feast on human flesh. Now its fate may rest on the shoulders of one lonely refugee.

Alina Starkov has never been good at anything. But when her regiment is attacked on the Fold and her best friend is brutally injured, Alina reveals a dormant power that saves his life- a power that could be the key to setting her war-ravaged country free. Wrenched from everything she knows, Alina is whisked away to the royal court to be trained as a member of the Grisha, the magical elite led by the mysterious Darkling.

Yet nothing in this lavish world is what it seems. With darkness looming and an entire kingdom depending on her untamed power, Alina will have to confront the secret of the Grisha... and the secrets of her heart."

My Rating: 4.75/5

This was such a refreshing read. It was exactly what I needed to read this month. It really reminded me of the Young Adult fantasy that I used to read when I was younger, and why I started writing out my thoughts in the first place. I have so many thoughts on the characters, and I'm intrigued by the world as well. The plot was intriguing and the twists were so fun. I also enjoyed reading about the atmosphere and the training aspects of the story. Most of all I'm interested in the history of the world, and where this plot is taking our characters. 

Will I be buying the whole box set? Absolutely.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Reivew: Struck by Jennifer Bosworth

Title: Struck
Author: Jennifer Bosworth
Series/Standalone: Struck Series (Book #1)
Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian, Paranormal
Pages: 373
Publisher: Square Fish
Year Published: 2012
Format: Paperback Copy (Own It)
First Line: "When you've been struck by lightning as many times as I have, you start to expect the worst pretty much all the time."

"I am a lightning addict.
I crave it like lungs crave oxygen.
Nothing makes you feel.

Mia Price is a lightning addict. She's survived countless strikes, but her craving to connect to the energy in storms endangers her life and the lives of those around her.

Los Angeles, where lightning rarely strikes, is one of the few places Mia feels safe from her addiction. But when an earthquake devastates the city, her haven is transformed into a minefield of chaos and danger. The beaches become massive tent cities. Downtown is a crumbling wasteland, where a travelling party moves to a different empty building each night, the revellers drawn to the destruction by a force they cannot deny. Two warring cults rise to power, and both see Mia as the key to their opposing doomsday prophecies. They believe she has a connection to the freak electrical storm that caused the quake, and to the far more devastating storm that is yet to come.

Mia wants to trust the enigmatic and alluring Jeremy when he promises to protect her, but she fears he isn't who he claims to be. In the end, the passion and the power that brought them together could be their downfall. When the final disaster strikes, Mia must risk unleashing the full horror of her strength to save the people she loves, or lose everything."

My Rating: 2/5

This book was brought to my attention after it was compared to the Red Queen series. I would like to state that this is nothing like the Red Queen series. Or not in the ways that I hoped. I think I've learned that other people suggestions for books that are similar to my favorite books don't really count if they don't love the Red Queen series as much as I do. I think that this book was a decent debut and it was an interesting world, but there were so many corny aspects that I couldn't overlook. I do think that I would be interested in the prequel to this book and the becoming of some of our characters in this story. That being said, I don't think I will be reading The Prophet by Jennifer Bosworth anytime soon.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Spoiler: Struck by Jennifer Bosworth

I expected a lot from this book which might have been my main problem. Whenever someone compares a book to my favourite book I get this urge to read it but I tend to be a little biased about whether it is really like Red Queen. This book had interesting aspects, getting to see the world fall apart, watching two cults battle for the end they wanted, the powers brought by lightning, and of course, the idea that you can change your fate.

Characters:
Mia: She was interested in the beginning of the story, but as I read I was increasingly annoyed by her. She seemed more interested in her love interest than the fact that the world was legit ending. You'd think that she'd have a different set of priorities but apparently not. She also is just too trusting of everyone, except for those I was rooting for. It was extremely frustrating. 

Parker: I think that he was immature and clearly didn't understand the danger he was putting himself in repeatedly. He was also kinda just a stock character.

Jeremy: He was such a basic love interest. He was bound to be betraying her. I kinda figured with some of the white clothing that he was somehow in cahoots with the Followers. But I do wonder about his mother and how his life was with the Prophet in the beginning while he was still being brainwashed.

Prophet: I'd be interested in the point of his view, but not enough to purchase the prequel of this book. I honestly think that he thought that he was the Prophet and he was meant to bring those to God.

Katrina: I want her families back story. It was just kinda thrown in there like an afterthought that her mother had been the leader of the Seekers to begin with.

Mr. Kale: Mind control is shitty. Duh.


Moments to Remember:
Final Line: "'I did.'"



Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Book Review: Cress by Marissa Meyer

Title: Cress 
Author: Marissa Meyer
Series/Standalone:  The Lunar Chronicles (Book #3)
Genre: Young Adult, Retellings, Fantasy, Science Fiction
Pages: 552
Publisher: Square Fish
Year Published: 2014
Format: Paperback Copy (Own It)
First Line: "Her satalite made one full orbit around planet earth every sixteen hours."

"Even in the future, there are damsels in distress...

Cress, having risked everything to warn Cinder of Queen Levana's evil plan, has a slight problem. She's been imprisoned on a satellite since childhood and has only ever had her netscreens as company. All that screen time has made Cress an excellent hacker. Unfortunately, she's just received orders from Levana to track down Cinder and her handsome accomplice.

When a daring rescue of Cress involving Cinder, Captain Thorne, Scarlet, and Wolf goes awry, the group is separated. Cress finally has her freedom, but it comes at a high price. meanwhile, Queen Levana will let nothing prevent her marriage to Emperor Kai. Cress, Scarlet, and Cinder may not have signed up to save the world, but they may be the only hope the world has."

My Rating: 4/5

I've really been working hard to binge read series that are highly anticipated in the YA book community and this series is no exception. I really have enjoyed getting to see the twist that Marissa Meyer takes with classic fairy tales. I enjoyed how well the series brings in new characters and perspectives while keeping the story line interesting. I also enjoyed catching up with older characters from the past two books. That being said, I didn't think that this book was as ground altering as I hoped it would be for the plot. There were a few aspects that were surprising but not as shocking as they were in the past two books. This book was good for me, it just wasn't all I hoped it to be. I can't wait to continue on with the series and novellas to gather a complete opinion on the series as a whole.

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: Cress by Marissa Meyer

I think that this series really has a lot going for it, which is likely why it's such a classic in the YA book community. I think that Marissa Meyer does a great job storytelling with a twist on the classics. I love the way the characters intertwine and connect without seeming overdone. I also have really connected with a few of our characters in these past three books. Unfortunately, Cress wasn't one of them for me. I thought that she was ok, but she didn't really capture a whole of my attention. I

I also really appreciated the change of scenery in this book. Which has happened in the past two novels. I always appreciate when authors are willing to expand on their world/universe. I think that the space aspects of this story were especially interesting to me. 

Characters:
Cress: I think that she was just too nice for me. I like my characters to have a little more fire or humour behind them and she just didn't. I can see how she made a very good damsel in distress and how the world from her perspective was an interesting idea, it just wasn't my favorite. I also found it rather obvious that she was Dimitri's child. Especially after the first two books. It just became to clear for it to be even close to a surprise.

Thorne: I like him. He's a sassy womanizer. He also reminds me a lot of Han Solo's attitude projected into a young Captain character. I wonder what he'll think as his eyesight begins to return. I also wonder how his relationship with Cress will grow.

Cinder: She's gotten a lot more fierce throughout the series, something I'm totally on board with. I loved that she was willing to go to such lengths to show that she was capable while still keeping true to who she really is. I also liked her consciousness aspects, the feelings of guilt she felt when using her power kept her relatable for me. 

Scarlet: She's by far my favorite main character. She is so loyal to those she loves and believes in. It was sad to see her lose so much because she was in the wrong place at the wrong time. I do think that she'll find her way out though.

Wolf: I also love him. I really enjoy his relationship with Scarlet and the evidence of heartbreak as he begins to believe that she is gone. I think that's an important aspect that fairytales sometime forget to show. How the love of the two is reciprocated. 

Sybil: She went just the right amount of crazy for me. She deserved what she got, I do wonder how her death will affect Levana.

Levana: Speaking about the evil lady herself, I'm super excited to get to Fairest to learn more about her backstory and why she turned into the person she did. I also wonder about her perspective being more present in Winter. 

Kai: He's got a lot of pressure on him the poor dude. That being said, he just seems lost so much of the time. I sincerely hope that he's ready to do what they have to end the war. 

Dr. Erland: This might have been the most heartbreaking part of the story line for me. To finally found something that you thought was gone only to have a short amount of time to enjoy it/share it with the other person. It was heartbreaking to see him start to lose his mind, but I think it was important to see that anyone is now able to catch the plague. ANYONE.

Iko: Just as sassy as I remember and I love it. I hope that she gets everything she wants throughout the series and I can't wait to see how she does with the upcoming war. She is getting braver with each book, and slightly less self-centred which I can appreciate.

Jacin: I'm not sure what to think about this character yet. It's clear that he and Winter have an intense relationship, but I'm curious how that happened and how it got to that point. Especially with him being Sybil's puppet.

Winter: I also appreciated seeing someone who just looks like she's full of madness. I appreciate a character who is not exactly reliable and who the reader is unsure of. I can't wait to read her story in the final book in the series.


Moments to Remember:
Final Line: "'So I'm going to Luna, and I'm going to start a revolution.'"


Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Book Review: Scarlet by Marissa Meyer

Title: Scarlet
Author: Marissa Meyer
Series/Standalone: The Lunar Chronicles (Book #2)
Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult, Science Fiction
Pages: 454
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Year Published: 2013
Format: Physical Copy (Own it)
First Line: "Scarlet was descending toward the alley behind the Rieux Tavern when her portscreen chimed from the passenger seat, followed by an automated voice: 'Commm received for Mademoiselle Scarlet Benoit from the Toulouse Law Enforcement Department of Missing Persons."

"Cinder, the cyborg mechanic, returns in the second thrilling instalment of the bestselling Lunar Chronicles. She's trying to break out of prison even though if she succeeds, she'll be the Commonwealth's most wanted fugitive.

Halfway around the world, Scarlet Benoit's grandmother is missing. When Scarlet encounters Wolf, a street fighter who may have information as to her grandmother's whereabouts, she is loath to trust this stranger but is inexplicably drawn to him, and he to her. As Scarlet and Wolf unravel one mystery, they encounter another when they meet Cinder. Now, all of them must stay one step ahead of the vicious Lunar Queen Levana, who will do anything for the handsome Prince Kai to become her husband, her king, her prisoner."

My Rating: 4.5/5

So this book has been a long time coming for me to read. I finally had the chance to binge read this book this weekend. Overall I loved the way the story introduced new characters and a slightly different plot. But it still manages to keep our older characters close, and is able to connect these characters together. I loved the way the story line morphed and the new characters we got a chance to meet in this installment.

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: Scarlet by Marissa Meyer

This book was so much better than I thought it would be. When I first started reading and realized that this book was from a different perspective. I thought that we wouldn't really connect with Cinder and the rest of the story. That being said, Scarlet might be my favorite character throughout this series so far. I also loved exploring different parts of this new style world. France as a dystopian and changed country was a interesting to see and experience. I also enjoyed the one chapter from Levana's perspective.

Characters:
Scarlet: I really love Scarlet. I think she's sassy, loyal, a go getter. She does what she needs to do to help those around her. I also like how critical she was of people around her (for the most part). She's a badass and I hope we see more of her in the next book. 

Wolf: I also really liked him and Scarlet together. I'm not sure how popular that opinion is, but I don't care. I do wonder what he was taken from and turned into. The way he said, he remembered who he really was. I do wonder if maybe these wolf people are shells. 

Kai: I'm not overly impressed with him but he's making the choices he can with the bartering tools he has. That being said, he knows that Levana is going to take over the country one way or another.

Cinder: I liked how she was exploring her powers and learning what she was capable of. I also appreciated her exploring her past and learning more about herself. I'm curious to see where her story line will go. 

Thorne: I like him. He's sassy and he's a huge flirt which I'm on board with. Hopefully he finds someone to hang out with and who has the same sense of flirtation that he does.

Iko: She needs a different body. She's a bad ass ship, but what if she gets shot or something! Ugh.

Levana: I'm excited to see stories from her perspective and learn more about the reason she is the way she is.



Moments to Remember:

Final Line: "'And then I'm going to stop hiding.'"

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Book Review: Cinder by Marissa Meyer

Title: Cinder
Author: Marissa Meyer
Series/Standalone: The Lunar Chronicles (Book #1)
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Dystopian, Science Fiction
Pages: 387
Publisher: Square Fish
Year Published: 2012
Format: Paperback Copy (Own it)
First Line: "The screw through Cinder's ankle had rusted, the engraved cross marks worn to a mangled circle."

"Even in the future, the story begins with Once Upon a Time....

Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth's fate hinges on one girl.
Sixteen-year-old Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She's a second-class citizen with a mysterious past and is reviled by her step-mother. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai's, she suddenly finds herself at the centre of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world's future. Because there is something unusual about Cinder, something that others would kill for."

My Rating: 4.5/5

I was hesitant going into this book because this is another well loved series on booktube and the book community, and I would be disappointed if I hated this one. But I really enjoyed it! I think that this book is a perfect binge read. This series is fast passed but also written in a way that you feel like you're getting a lot of story line in a short amount of time. Marissa Meyer everyone was telling me to read your books and I feel like I've wasted so much time putting this one off for long. The half a star was docked due to the ending that I predicted to an extent but other than that this book is an amazing read. I can't wait to continue with the series. They are being added to my next month TBR.

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Spoiler: Cinder by Marissa Meyer

So I finally got to this book that feels like it's been on my TBR forever (because it has, let's be honest with each other). I loved this book! I think that Marissa Meyer kicks ass with retellings, while making them her own. The story was so unlike anything else I'd ever read. And while there were elements from Cinderella I didn't feel like everything was predictable. There were a few things that I guessed, such as the ending fact about Cinder's identity, but I think that that just made sense.
The setting in this story is another interesting factor in this first instalment. In a dystopian novel were Earth has many different governments after World War IV, and there are freaking people who have "powers" on the moon, it's hard not to get caught up in the world. I can't wait to continue the series and see other parts of this world through the next story. 

Characters:
Cinder: She's an interesting main character to me, because of her different makeup. Being a cyborg obviously isn't always accepted in this world, and especially with the plague going on and people refusing to "volunteer". I think that she was the right amount of naive and with a reason (not enough to make me roll my eyes while reading).

Kai: I wonder how his life will continue when or if he finds out about Cinder's true identity and what that could mean for his kingdom and the Lunars. 

Peony: She was sweet, ditsy but sweet. I cried when she died, especially when Cinder was so close to saving her.

Queen Levana: I'm not going to lie I can't wait to rad Fairest to see about her life and how she became to be an evil dictator.

Iko: Please come back to our story line. I miss your cute, sassy comments. Ugh perfect side character.

Dr. Dmitri: You son of a gun killed a lot of cyborgs to find the one you were looking for. Also what else do you know about Cinder and the Lunar migration? I want to know so much more. 

Adri: I hope you're embarrassed but I'm surprised you weren't the real villain during this story to make it a classic Cinderella retelling.

Pearl: I could do without your snotty little attitude. Hopefully we don't see you for a long while... or ever.


Moments to Remember:
Final Line: "But they would be looking for a ghost."


Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Book Review: The Winner's Crime by Marie Rutkoski

Title: The Winner's Crime
Author: Marie Rutkoski
Series/Stand Alone: The Winner's Trilogy (Book #2)
Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult, Romance
Pages: 414
Publisher: Square Fish
Year Published: 2015
First Line: "She cut herself opening the envelope."

"A royal wedding means one celebration after another: balls, fireworks, and revelry until dawn. But to Kestrel it means living in a cage of her own making. As the wedding approaches, she aches to tell Arin the truth of her engagement: that she agreed to marry the crown prince in exchange for Arin's freedom. But can Kestrel trust Arin? Can she even trust herself?
Kestrel is becoming very good at deception. She's working as a spy in the court. If caught, she'll be exposed as a traitor to her country. Yet she can't help searching for a way to change her ruthless world... and she is close to uncovering a shocking secret. This dazzling follow-up to The Winner's Curse reveals the high price of dangerous lies and untrustworthy alliances. The truth will come out, and when it does, Kestrel and Arin will learn just how much their crimes will cost them."

My Rating: 5/5

I am always so nervous going into a second book. I find that a lot of books have a second book slump for me. So needless to say I thought that this book was the opposite. It was better. I thought that it was even better than the first one. I was sucked in immediately and wasn't ready when this book ended. I thought that it was a tremendous cliff hanger and I want more. I thought that the characters really fleshed out in this book. The characters grew and became more real throughout the story. I thought that the changes in political drama also helped the story along. I really enjoyed Marie Rutkoski writing and look forward to the next and final book in the series. That being said, I still need to order the next book along with other sequels after reading through more of my tbr. 

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

Book Review: The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutoski

Title: The Winner's Curse
Author: Marie Rutoski
Series/Standalone: The Winner's Trilogy Book #1
Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult, Romance
Pages: 384
Publisher: Square Fish
Year Published: 2014
First Line: "She shouldn't have been tempted."

"Winning what you want may cost you everything you love.
They were never meant to be together. As a general's daughter, seventeen-year-old Kestrel enjoys an extravagant and privileged life. Arin has nothing but the clothes on his back.. Then Kestrel makes an impulsive decision that binds Arin to her. Though they try to fight it, they can't help but fall in love. In order to be together, they must betray their people... but to be loyal to their countries, they must betray each other.
Set in a  new world, The Winner's Curse is a story rebellion, duels, ballroom dances, wicked rumours, dirty secrets and games where everything is at stake and the gamble is whether you will keep your head or lose your heart."

My Rating: 5/5

I read the description on this book, which is something I never do. But I must say I was surprisingly impressed. I kind of expected this to be another romance based in fantasy and while it had many romance moments, I thought that it was so much more than that. It really helped me think about the invasions in the past of many North American countries. It was heartbreaking story to read and I can't wait to see what happens throughout the rest of this series. The author did an awesome job of introducing not one, but two different cultures. I think that the characters were lovable and interesting enough to keep me intrigued. I'm trying so hard not to spoil anything in this section, but if you're interested in one, please look below.

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