Title: The Carnivorous Carnival
Author: Lemony Snicket
Series/Standalone: A Series of Unfortunate Events (Book #9)
Genre: Fiction, Young Adult, Fantasy
Pages: 286
Publisher: HarperCollins
Year Published: 2002
Format: Hardback Library Copy
First Line: "When my workday is over, and I have closed my notebook, hidden my pen, and sawed holes in my rented canoe so that it cannot be found, I often like to spend the evening in conversation with my few surviving friends."
"Dear Reader,
The word 'carnivorous,' which appears in the title of this book, means 'meat-eating' and once you've read such a bloodthirsty word, there is no reason to read any further. This carnivorous volume contains such a distressing story that consuming any of its contents would be far more stomach-turning than even the most imbalanced meal.
To avoid causing discomfort, it would be best if I didn't mention any of the unnerving ingredients of this story, particularly a confusing map, an ambidextrous person, an unruly crowd, a wooden plank, and Chabo the Wolf Baby.
Sadly for me, my time is filled with researching and recording the displeasing and disenchanting lives of the Baudelaire orphans. But your time might be better filled with something more palatable, such as eating your vegetables, or feeding them to someone else.
With all due respect,
Lemony Snicket."
My Rating: 5/5
As I mentioned in my review of the 8th book review, I think that this series really took a turn now and I'm enjoying it far more than I enjoyed the first books. While I liked the first books, I found them to be a little too repetitive and young for me. At this point, I'm extremely excited to continue my reading of the series. I found this book caught me off guard with a twist or turn here and there. I think that the writing style in this series is by far one of the most unique styles I've ever read and it really sets the books apart. I am looking into watching the Netflix series but hoping to finish the series first. I plan to pick up the next 4 books in May and June.. if not before then. My curiosity is killing me.
Thanks for reading,
Sidny
Title: The Hostile Hospital
Author: Lemony Snicket
Series/Standalone: A Series of Unfortunate Events (Book #8)
Genre: Fiction, Middle Grade, Fantasy
Pages: 255
Publisher: HarperCollins Publisher
Year Published: 2001
Format: Hardcover Library Copy
First Line: "There are two reasons why a writer would end a sentence with the word 'stop' written entirely in capital letters STOP."
"Dear Readers,
Before you throw this awful book to the ground and run as far away from it as possible, you should probably know why. This book is the only one which describes every last detail of the Baudelaire children's miserable stay at Heimlich Hospital, which makes it one of the most dreadful books in the world.
There are many pleasant things to read about, but this book contains none of them. Within its pages are such burdensome details as a suspicious shopkeeper, unnecessary surgery, an intercom system, anesthesia, heart-shaped balloons, and some very startling news about a fire. Clearly, you do not want to read about such things.
I have sworn to research this story, and to write it down as best as I can, so I should know that this book is something best left on the ground, where you undoubtedly found it.
With all due respect,
Lemony Snicket."
My Rating: 5/5
So I took a break from this series for a month and when I was at the library getting some books for my preschool classroom I thought what the hell, I might as well pick up this book and the next one in the series. For me, these are perfect weekend reads and on weekends when I don't have plans I can fly through them along with my other book of the week. This one I thought really blew the others out of the water. It came into its own and connections are starting to be made and as an adult, I'm far more interested. I think that the author does a magnificent job incorporating his own story and others into that of the Baudelaire orphans and I was impressed with his writing in this installment even more than the others. I can't wait to finish the rest of the series, and I'm strongly considering binge reading over the next few months. After all what's a long weekend without books!
Can't wait to see where this series is going.
Thanks for reading,
Sidny
Title: Sailor Moon Vol. 2
Author: Naoko Takeuchi
Series/ Standalone: Pretty Soldier Sailor Moon (Vol. 2)
Genre: Manga, Fantasy, YA,
Pages: 235
Publisher: Kodansha
Year Published: 2011
Format: Physical Copy
"The mysterious Tuxedo mask has revealed his identity, forcing Usagi to come to terms with her growing affection for the masked vigilante, all the while defending the people of Earth from renewed attacks by the sinister "enemy". Everything threatens to overwhelm even Sailor Moon when suddenly a new Sailor Guardian appears. Could this new Guardian be the Moon Princess the Sailor Guardians are sworn to protect?"
My Rating: 5/5
So this second instalment definitely upped the excitement. As I'm laying sick in bed, I thought what better time to pick up such a nostalgic piece of my childhood and man was I happy that I did. Sailor Moon really went deeper than I ever realized as a child. As a child, I would dance around my living room "transforming" into a Sailor Scout and protecting the world from the evil but I didn't realize what the storyline actually was. As per usual the art in this book was inspiring and made me wish that I could draw or do something of the sort, but damn I'll just appreciate it. And the story line? Got so much better this book. Will be continuing on and can hardly wait!
Title: The Winner's Kiss
Author: Marie Rutkoski
Series/Standalone: The Winner's Trilogy (Book #3)
Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult, Romance
Pages: 484
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Children's
Year Published: 2016
Format: Physical paperback copy
First Line: "He told himself a story."
"Wishes don't win wars.
The empire is at war and a heartbroken Arin leads his people to battle. But, he can't forget Kestrel- or how she's betrayed him. Kestrel is a sly, ruthless killer, caring more for the goly of the empire than for the lives of innocent people- and certainly more than for him.
At least, that's what he thinks.
In the frozen north, Kestrel is sentenced to life imprisonment in a brutal work camp. As she searches desperately for an escape she wishes Arin could know what she sacrificed for him. She wishes she could make the empire pay for what they've done to her.
But no one gets what they want just by wishing.
High stakes, true love and the destiny of nations come together in a heart-pounding climax to the bestselling Winner's trilogy."
My Rating: 4.5/5
So I finally finished this series and was super nervous for all my fictional babies in this book and damn Marie Rutkoski she did not disappoint. I thought that this was a marvelous conclusion to a very interesting series. The political drama continued, the romance was still swoon worthy and the characters stayed true to who I remembered them to be. That being said, I did find that the beginning of this book seemed to drag a little. I found that it was taking a little to long to get to the pieces that I was hoping would happen and for that reason I knocked off half a star. I will say that the twists and turns in this book still managed to catch me completely off guard and I was ready for the worst at almost every moment.
Marie Rutkoski you've made me laugh, cry and sigh with this trilogy and when you write more books (which you have to) I will be in line to pick them up.
Thanks for reading,
Sidny
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
Title: Shiny Broken Pieces
Author: Sona Charaipotra and Dhonielle Clayton
Series/Standalone: Tiny Broken Pieces (Book #2)
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary, Fiction
Pages: 384
Publisher: HarperTeen
Year Published: 2016
Format: Physical Copy- Hardcover
First Line: "Sometimes you want something so badly you're willing to do whatever it takes to get it."
"May the best dancer win.
June, Bette and Gigi have given their all to dance at Manhattan's most elite ballet school. Now they are competing one final time for a spot at the prestigious American Ballet Company. With the stakes higher than ever, these girls have everything to lose... and no one is playing nice.
Ever since June landed the starring role in last year's performance, she can finally see herself as a prima ballerina. Being the best means making sacrifices, though, and getting what she wants might cost June everything- including the only boy she's ever loved.
Legacy dancer Bette is determined to clear her name after she was suspended and accused of hurting her rival, Gigi. But even if she returns, will she ever regain the spotlight she craves? or has she tarnished the treasured family name forever?
Gigi endured a year of torment from Bette and other dancers who envied her success. It nearly ended her ballet career- and her life- and Gigi is not going to let them go unpunished. But as revenge consumes her. Gig may be the one who pays the price.
After years of grueling auditions, torn ribbons, and broken hearts, it all comes down to this last dance. Who will make the cut? And who will lose her dream forever?"
My Rating: 3.5/5
So I read the first book in the duology a while ago and I really enjoyed it. I thought that the drama and mystery were perfect and couldn't wait to get my hands on the next book. Such a guilty pleasure read. This second book had a lot to live up to and for me, it just didn't hit the mark. I understood why the characters had to change, but I just felt like I reading about a completely different cast of characters. I didn't find myself surprised by many of the twists and turns. I think that the lack of mystery really made this book difficult to get through. I would have liked to see more mysterious drama rather than so much solving. Overall I enjoyed this book. The world of ballet was still very interesting to me, and the final dance off was interesting to read about but I likely won't be rereading this duology.
Thanks for reading,
Sidny
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
Title: King's Cage
Author: Victoria Aveyard
Series/Standalone: Red Queen Series (Book #3)
Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult, Dystopia
Pages: 528
Publisher: HarperTeen
Year Published: 2017
Format: Hardcover physical copy
First Line: "I rise to my feet when he lets me."
"In this breathless third installment to Victoria Aveyard's bestselling Red Queen series, allegiances are tested on every side. And when the Lightning Girl's spark is gone, who will light the way for the rebellion?
Mare Barrow is a prisoner, powerless without her lightning, tormented by her lethal mistakes. She lives at the mercy of a boy she once loved, a boy made of lies and betrayal. Now a King, Maven Calore continues weaving his dead mother's web in an attempt to maintain control over his country- and his prisoner.
As Mare bears the weight of Silent Stone in the palace, her once- ragtag band of newbloods and Reds continue organizing, training, and expanding. They prepare for war, no longer able to linger in the shadows. And Cal, the exiled prince with his own claim on Mare's heart, will stop at nothing to bring her back.
When blood turns on blood, and ability on ability, there may be no one left to put out the fire- leaving Norta as Mare knows it to burn all the way down."
My rating: 5/5
As per usual Victoria Aveyard's writing blows me away. I know that it's not everyone's cup of tea but damn she just gets who I am as a reader and just continues to impress me. I was very impressed with this third book, I wasn't sure where the story would be after the ending of Glass Sword or how the story would continue and that made me nervous for about a year.. that's fine... (no sarcasm here). I also was prepared to try and stretch this book out, but I wasn't able to get away with more than 4 days (because of a snow day). I thought that the characters were really the main focus of the first half of this book and I enjoyed that along with the changing point of views. I think that it's important to learn more about the players in the game that the author has set out and figure out who you're cheering for overall. I mean you might not win, but at least she's giving us options. I also enjoyed the action packed scenes as I always do in this series with the details the author gives the readers making it feel like a cinematic experience. I can not wait for the next book to come out so I can figure out what to do with my heart after that ending, oh and to mourn over this series being over.
Thanks for reading,
Sidny
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
Title: The House of The Stone
Author: Amy Ewing
Series/Standalone: The Lone City (Book #1.5)
Genre: Dystopia, Young Adult,
Pages: 82
Publisher: HarperTeen
Year Published: 2015
Format: Ebook
First Line: "I am Raven Stirling."
"In The Jewel, we followed Violet in her servitude under the Duchess of the Lake. Now we'll hear Raven's story and her time as a surrogate for the Countess of the Stone in this digital novella from Amy Ewing.
When Raven is bought at the Auction, she knows immediately that things will not go well. And when she arrives at the Countess's palace, Raven quickly discovers that the Countess is much less interested in having a baby than experimenting with Raven's mind and body. Raven can only hope for an escape... and to see Violet again, all the while reminding herself that she is Raven Stirling, and she does matter.
HarperTeen Impulse is a digital imprint focused on young adult short stories and novellas wth new releases the first Tuesday of every month."
My Rating: 4/5
I want more. That's all I can really think in the moments after finishing this short little novella. I want to know more. I want to hear about her life before the Exetor's Ball and about how she stays so strong in between. Maybe we'll get more from the next book in the Lone City series and I certainly hope so because Raven is such an important character to th main character in the series and she is leading such a different life in comparison to Violet's surogacy. I do wonder about the past in this series, like generations in the past so I hope to read more of the novellas when I get through the series as a whole if I still enjoy it..... here's hoping.
Thanks for reading,
Sidny
