Book Review: Amongst the Ruins by Saewod Tice

Amongst the Ruins by Saewod Tice

Series: The Chronicles of 2020 #1

Genre: YA Dystopian

Publication Date: September 12, 2011

Publisher: Noble Young Adult

Pages: 321 pages

Source: Received for review from the author

In the year 2220, only about 15% of Earth's population have survived and thrived after the Nuclear Disaster of 2020.

With the collapse of modern society, the population has regressed into eight clans.

Amongst these clans, an unusual girl grows from child to adult.

Raised on the run and in hiding, Shilo wants to be free of the expectations of women. But in a ruined world where anyone could be an enemy, only the radiation-twisted mutants are clearly identifiable. A fertile female is a precious treasure, and any lapse in caution can mean a loss of the freedom she longs for.

Training as hard as a soldier would, in order to free herself from social constraints, she finds herself faced with an offer from a new clan--an offer that provides her with what she desires. But her recently found independence brings discovery, and discovery brings two very different men from her past—and each of them is determined to claim her.

One is obsessed with owning her, the other desires her as the only person who can make him love again. (Summary from Goodreads.com)

So, uhhh, I read this like really amazing book, it's called "Amongst the ruins" and if you don't read it then, uhhh, I guess it's your loss.

This books was truly amazing! I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. It's the first novel in the promising 2020 chronicles. When I finished reading "Amongst the ruins" I completely fangirled to the author and she hasn't replied yet so I think I scared her? Maybe the part where I told her I "loved" her did it?

Ok, so onto the more serious part of the review... Heck, this is going to be so hard to write! I'm still so hyper about the book!

I genuinely don't know where to start or what to say to prove how phenomenal this novel was. It's hard to sum up awesomeness in a few paragraphs.

Unlike most dystopian novels, whose plots sound promising but fail to deliver, this story really struck me and is now one of favourites of all time.

The plot was basic yet seemed so complex at the same time. There were so many twists and unpredictable turns. In the future the remaining 15% of the population live in clans due to the collapse in society after a nuclear disaster devastated mankind. The 'Nigredo" are savage, radiation-twisted mutants, almost human-like if it weren't for their lack of empathy, who threaten to ruin the life mankind has salvaged from their past failures; but they're not all that endanger Shilo's life, freedom and future.

Shilo's transformation from a young girl in hiding to a young woman who will stand her ground is compelling and dangerous. Everything she does is to survive. Nothing else matters but survival in this world, but for Shilo, survival isn't enough. She wants freedom from the  trap she's fallen into, from the expectations of women in this monster of a world.

The characters are what make the story. The characterisation was beautiful and ever so real. The heartless mean fueled me with adrenaline and her friends and family enveloped me in warmth. I felt everything she experienced as if I were her, but at the same time I felt as though I was sat on the side line, unable to help her when my heart was screaming at me to do so.

The relationships between characters, whether they were enemies, friends, family or lovers were indecisive, believable and emotional. The feelings characters developed towards one another and the words they wished they'd had a chance to say make you realise just how precious life is.

I really can't strain enough how prodigious this novel was. The plot was simple yet layered, the characters all too human and beautiful.

A compelling read. An admirable protagonist. Her story will consume you.

*Recommended for 15+ due to mature content*

Purchase this novel!

(Also available at Amazon US and from the publisher.)

Book Review: Incarnate by Jodi Meadows

Incarnate by Jodi Meadows

Series: Newsoul #1

Genre: YA Sci-Fi Fantasy
Publication Date: January 31, 2012
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
Pages: 374
Source: Bought

NEWSOUL
Ana is new. For thousands of years in Range, a million souls have been reincarnated over and over, keeping their memories and experiences from previous lifetimes. When Ana was born, another soul vanished, and no one knows why.

NOSOUL
Even Ana's own mother thinks she's a nosoul, an omen of worse things to come, and has kept her away from society. To escape her seclusion and learn whether she'll be reincarnated, Ana travels to the city of Heart, but its citizens are afraid of what her presence means. When dragons and sylph attack the city, is Ana to blame?

HEART
Sam believes Ana's new soul is good and worthwhile. When he stands up for her, their relationship blooms. But can he love someone who may live only once, and will Ana's enemies—human and creature alike—let them be together? Ana needs to uncover the mistake that gave her someone else's life, but will her quest threaten the peace of Heart and destroy the promise of reincarnation for all?

Jodi Meadows expertly weaves soul-deep romance, fantasy, and danger into an extraordinary tale of new life. (Summary from Goodreads)

 I did truly adore this novel. The cover is stunning and so is the story inside.

The world which Meadows created was beautiful and so far from the truth of reality yet it seemed so very real. I felt as though dragons, sylph and reincarnation actually existed as I read my way from cover to cover; I was so absorbed in this world.

Ana (our protagonist) was a character I adored from the first sentence and she continued to grow on me throughout the duration of the novel. She was as new to herself as she was to us; we knew everything she did and the best part was that we learnt it all with her - who she was, what she liked, why she existed and more importantly, who to trust. Meadows showed us all of this, she didn't tell us - this I liked.

Another character who I (and you will) love is Sam. He is so perfect, yet so flawed. He seemed so real throughout the book, so human. He was a lovable character and a great asset to the story.

The only issue I had with characters was that I think Meadows introduced us to too many members of the 'council' in one go so that I forgot who was who for a while. Only a few members were relevant characters yet all these names were thrown at us. This was ONLY a tiny issue, do not let this put you off the novel! You will not get confused about who is who with any main characters, I promise!

The relationships in this novel were more realistic than in a lot of YA reads these days as friendships were tested and emotions were used as weapons as well as comfort. The relationship between Ana and sam developed well throughout the story - they were each other's lifelines but also each was the other's greatest weakness.

I love the plot, the characters, the writing (the cover!) and everything else about this novel. It was well thought-out and beautifully written. I loved it so much that I've picked out a few of my favourite quotes! (I couldn't include all as they wouldn't have made sense out of context.)

1) "Honestly? I think people aren't sure it's worth getting to know you. It would be like you deciding if it was worth befriending a butterfly, even though it wouldn't be there in the morning."

2) I was the brushstroke that ruined the painting.

3) I was trapped, a butterfly under glass.

I loved this story as much as I'd hoped I would. I definitely recommend it and will certainly be picking myself up a copy of the sequel.

Book Review: The Book of Broken Hearts by Sarah Ockler

The Book of Broken Hearts by Sarah Ockler

Series: Standalone

Genre: Ya Contemporary
Publication Date: May 21, 2013
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Format: eARC
Pages: 352
Source: Received from publisher for review, via Edelweiss

Jude has learned a lot from her older sisters, but the most important thing is this: The Vargas brothers are notorious heartbreakers. She’s seen the tears and disasters that dating a Vargas boy can cause, and she swore an oath—with candles and a contract and everything—to never have anything to do with one.

Now Jude is the only sister still living at home, and she’s spending the summer helping her ailing father restore his vintage motorcycle—which means hiring a mechanic to help out. Is it Jude’s fault he happens to be cute? And surprisingly sweet? And a Vargas?

Jude tells herself it’s strictly bike business with Emilio. Her sisters will never find out, and Jude can spot those flirty little Vargas tricks a mile away—no way would she fall for them. But Jude’s defenses are crumbling, and if history is destined to repeat itself, she’s speeding toward some serious heartbreak…unless her sisters were wrong?

Jude may have taken an oath, but she’s beginning to think that when it comes to love, some promises might be worth breaking. (Summary from goodreads.com)

Well it looks like my first Sarah Ockler experience was a success! I was definitely captivated by the motorcycle hotness, absurd oath, and the touching father-daughter relationship. This is a book that will stick with me for a while.

Protagonist:
Jude is a character I had no issues connecting to. Sometimes I related to her so much that I kind of wanted to cry. She's the youngest child which means not only is she left to deal with everything on her own but she also has to live in the path that her sisters have already walked. She gets their hand-me-down clothes and their hand-me-down heartbreaks. I felt so bad the way her friends treated her and I respected the fact that her family came before their opinions no matter what. I absolutely loved what she was trying to do for her dad with the motorcycle. As a total daddy's girl, I really enjoyed Jude's relationship with her father. It was sweet and realistic. Jude has great values and I really liked and respected her.

That Vargas Boy:
Okay, guys, Emilio is HOT. Sarah Ockler put together the perfect YA boy: rides a motorcycle (and fixes them), has a bad reputation, a tragic story, and loves his mom. Jude has taken an oath to her sisters that she will stay away from all Vargas boys, but that becomes pretty difficult for her when she realizes that Emilio is not like his brothers. He is unfailingly sweet. He helps Jude out the best he can, even if he doesn't necessarily know what's going on. He doesn't judge her or her family, even though sometime they deserve it. Most importantly, he's always there for Jude. Simply said, I love him. I love the relationship between the two of them.

Plot:
So, Jude's dad has Alzheimer's, and his memory gets worse everyday. For some reason, when he thinks about his motorcycle, though, his memory becomes crystal clear. In an attempt to help restore her father's memory, Jude makes it her mission to get his old motorcycle fixed up. Enter hot boy, insensitive friends, infuriating but well-meaning family members, and old western movies. It's an emotional story line with perfect pacing, leaving me completely engaged throughout the entire book.

To summarize:
This book rocked my hypothetical socks. It's a great addition to the contemporary YA world, one that will stand out in my mind for a while. I connected to it very strongly, and even if you don't find the same connection, I guarantee you will find something in this book that worms its way into your heart. This is a book I'd most definitely re-read.

Book Review: Slated by Teri Terry

Slated by Teri Terry 

Series: Slated #1

Genre: YA Dystopian

Publication Date: May 3, 2012

Publisher: Orchard Books

Pages: 448

Kyla’s memory has been erased,
her personality wiped blank,
her memories lost for ever.

She’s been Slated.

The government claims she was a terrorist, and that they are giving her a second chance - as long as she plays by their rules. But echoes of the past whisper in Kyla’s mind. Someone is lying to her, and nothing is as it seems. Who can she trust in her search for the truth? (Summary from Goodreads.com)

A breakthrough in dystopian fiction and an outstanding debut from author Teri Terry!

Slated has gone up straight into my top 10 - it was phenomenal.

I truly do adore this novel, it's story and Kyla herself.

Kyla has been 'born again' if you like. She's had to learn to talk and walk all over again - her first step, her first word, every moment a struggle. She's 16 years old but has been stripped of the privileges of this youthful age, and of her childhood. She can't remember her old friends, her parents, who she was or what she did wrong to lose herself... 

Teri portrayed this so well as she showed Kyla struggling to open the door handle to the car and how Kyla felt almost privileged to be doing the washing up - though the novelty soon wore off. At first I thought "She's happy to be washing up? WHAT?!" But then I remembered how when I was younger I loved to do the washing (even if my Mum had to rewash everything afterwards - she thought I didn't notice!) and as I grew to my teen years the novelty had worn off and it became a chore - Kyla is having to experience all of this all over again. Teri put so much thought into this novel - it's incredible.

Something I loved about the story was the introduction of the "Levo". A device (like a watch I suppose) that monitors a slated's 'levels' - their emotions. It's designed to protect both the society and the Slateds from themselves - if their levels drop too low, dangerously low, they're deemed unconscious; or worse.

Teri wrote this novel beautifully - not just how she paced the story but how she actually chose to write it; I love her writing style.

Secrets, trust, friendship and love are put under tremendous stress as Kyla discovers that she's not like the other Slateds; Kyla is different. And this is her story of discovering the difference between right and wrong, between facts and lies, but most importantly between who she is and who she was.

A beautiful story, a compelling read...

It's disturbingly close to the undeniable nightmares of our future.

Kyla's story is heart-wrenching. 

It will haunt you.

A MUST READ for all dystopian fans and anyone else! I highly recommend this novel and can't wait for the sequel "Fractured" to be released in 2013.

Book Review: Sam Cruz's Infallible Guide To Getting Girls by Tellulah Darling

Sam Cruz's Infallible Guide to Getting Girls

Series: Standalone
Genre: YA Contemporary
Publication Date: October 1, 2012
Publisher: Te Da Media
Pages: 244

Why the hell can’t chicks be more like guys?

That question plagues high school senior Sam Cruz. Sam is perfectly happy being a player. He just wishes girls wouldn’t change the game from sex to relationships. It makes him look like an asshole. But when Sam’s best friend, Ally Klinger, gets dumped, she begs him to transform her into someone who can screw around then screw off. No risk of heartbreak that way. It’s Sam’s chance to create the perfect female AND cheer up his best friend. Armed with Sam’s Three Step Guide to Backseat Success, Ally gets the game better than Sam thought she would and before long, Sam has his wish: the female version of himself. Too bad it’s driving him nuts. Told from Sam’s and Ally's alternating POVs, Sam Cruz’s Infallible Guide to Getting Girls is a fast-paced romantic comedy that follows these teens as they navigate the minefield of sex, love, and friendship.

This book contains strong language, drinking, euphemisms, and lots of “bow chicka wow wow.” (Summary from Goodreads.com)

Hilarious! A down to earth novel with characters you want to hit over the head, laugh with and laugh at. I devoured this book in one sitting and will probably re-read it again in the future. A must read for teenagers 15+

The characters had great personalities. They were funny, kind, stupid, selfish, ; they were human. Typical teenagers who managed to stay unique in their own way.

The story is simple and realistic but at the same time is highly unpredictable which made it all the more enjoyable! With so many scenes being easy to relate to, I really can't think of anyone who wouldn't really enjoy this book! It was funny but had enough 'serious' scenes in it to keep it real. I certainly cracked a smile, heck, I laughed my socks off!

A cringe-worthy yet hilarious novel! A must read!

Book Review: Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry

Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry

Series: Pushing the Limits #1
Genre: YA Contemporary
Publication Date: July 31, 2012
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Pages: 392

No one knows what happened the night Echo Emerson went from popular girl with jock boyfriend to gossiped-about outsider with "freaky" scars on her arms. Even Echo can't remember the whole truth of that horrible night. All she knows is that she wants everything to go back to normal.But when Noah Hutchins, the smoking-hot, girl-using loner in the black leather jacket, explodes into her life with his tough attitude and surprising understanding, Echo's world shifts in ways she could never have imagined. They should have nothing in common. And with the secrets they both keep, being together is pretty much impossible.

Yet the crazy attraction between them refuses to go away. And Echo has to ask herself just how far they can push the limits and what she'll risk for the one guy who might teach her how to love again.

 "They say be a good girl. Get good grades. They know nothing about me."

A brave, riveting and truly powerful novel - Pushing the limits will drive the devastating aspects of young Echo's life closer to home than you may have thought possible.
 
I loved this novel to pieces! Katie McGarry is a talented author who I'm glad was daring enough to tackle the challenging topics of love, loss and life itself, but most importantly how cruel they all can be.

Told from alternating perspectives, we follow Echo, whose memory has been regressed due to a traumatic experience, and Noah, whose life took a turn for the worse and who now hates the system for not playing fair. The pair are an unlikely match but after being kicked down, we watch the story progress to see if they have what it takes to help each other get back up.

What hit me the most was how easy this novel was to relate to, even if none of the delicate issues raised in the novel have been experienced by you first hand. Maybe you're not Noah, a foster kid who's fighting to try and get his life back, or Echo, a damaged teen attending therapy sessions to try and find out why her life hit rock bottom. But maybe you're the one whose insecurity has a hold over you, controls what you wear and where you go? Maybe you're someone who is fighting a losing battle but are refusing to give up. You may even be the girl, or guy, people stare at and mock in the corridor, the one they whisper about and misunderstand.. You might be the friend who always offers a shoulder to cry on, or just a bystander who watches it happen. Heck, you might even be the *cough* selfish, vile, weak, pathetic *cough* person who gives the glares, starts the rumors and excludes the ones who aren't 'cool' enough. But my point is, whoever you are, there's something in this novel that you can relate to.

The characterisation is a majorly strong element in this novel; everything Echo and Noah fought for I  found myself wanting so badly too, for them - that's how real they seemed, how much McGarry made me care for them. Both characters are realistic, easy to relate to and down to earth; they both have very distinct and unique voices and personalities.

I don't really want to spoil anything so I have deliberately not mentioned the problems the characters face because the fun of the novel is understanding the characters, their lives and unraveling the mystery of what actually happened to them and why. Though I will say that I loved how you discover Echo's past alongside her, she never knows more than you do, and how you stand by Noah as he never stops fighting. I'm not going to lie, my heart ached for Echo and I cried enough to fill the ocean over Noah's story - maybe that's just me, I don't know, but even if you don't cry, you'll be touched!

Having said that, this was no a sad/depressing story. It was a journey with both its ups and downs which was overall just as heart-warming as it was heart-wrenching. I really do hope people take something away with them after reading this novel, even if it's just making people more aware before they make judgments.

OH! THE ROMANCE! How have I not mentioned that?! The chemistry between Echo and Noah was hot, sexy and the strength they offered one another was admirable. The romance was a great part of the book (the majority of the book I guess) but it was necessary as it moved the plot along. The love Noah and Echo had for each other, for their families and for 'normal' was extraordinary.

I really can't explain how much I adored this novel. I recommend it to anyone and everyone!

Book Review: Confessions of an Angry Girl by Louise Rozett

Confessions of an Angry Girl by Louise Rozett

Series: Confessions #1

Genre: YA Contemporary

Publication Date: January 4, 2012

Publisher: Mira Ink

Pages: 266

Rose Zarelli, self-proclaimed word geek and angry girl, has some CONFESSIONS to make...

#1: I’m livid all the time. Why? My dad died. My mom barely talks. My brother abandoned us. I think I’m allowed to be irate, don’t you?

#2: I make people furious regularly. Want an example? I kissed gorgeous Jamie Forta, boyfriend of the coolest cheerleader in the school. Now she’s out for blood. Mine.

#3: But most of all high school might as well be Mars. My best friend has been replaced by an alien…and now it’s a case of survival of the coolest.

"About the occasional panic attack and being fourteen in the suburbs without a mobile phone. Read It And Weep."

Rose is my new best friend and she doesn't even know it! I loved how down to earth she was - how real she seemed and how extremely easy to relate to she was in more ways than one.

I originally only accepted this book for review when I read 'panic attack' on the blurb because I wondered how an author would portray a character who suffered from something which I also endured; I was impressed with how Rozett handled Rose's anger issues and was surprised (in a good way) about how Rose wasn't this 'hot under the collar' brute who threw her weight about when she didn't get her own way, but whose anger was mostly silent and only made itself known when she was pushed over the edge - the thin line between being angry and being upset is shown very clearly in this book. I always found myself experiencing the same emotions as Rose in each situation she was in. The guilt, the betrayal, the anger stirring in the pit of her stomach, I felt it all. I suppose I expected an aggressive protagonist, but instead I was presented with Rose.

The plot moved at a good pace, never was I bored, even despite not that much happening. The story is driven forward by emotions and characters and everything was necessary, nothing was just thrown in for the sake of it.

I'd sum the book up to be about a young teenage girl struggling to smother her anger at life (and what it can take away from you) while trying to survive high school with boys, cheerleaders, friends and a whole bunch of personal boundaries thrown in there.

The sparks of romance in this novel are awaiting to be ignited in the sequel! Being just fourteen, Rose isn't 'experienced' so you follow her as she learns all these new feelings, both emotional and physical. The realism of Rose's situations and her reactions made this book all the more enjoyable.
 
I loved this book! There's not really much more I can say without spoiling it but I loved Rose and I can't wait to read the sequel! I recommend it to all!

Book Review: Requiem by Lauren Oliver

Requiem by Lauren Oliver

Series: Delirium #3

Genre: YA Dystopian
Publication Date: March 5, 2013
Publisher: HarperCollins
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 391
Source: Purchased

Now an active member of the resistance, Lena has been transformed. The nascent rebellion that was under way in Pandemonium has ignited into an all-out revolution in Requiem, and Lena is at the center of the fight.

After rescuing Julian from a death sentence, Lena and her friends fled to the Wilds. But the Wilds are no longer a safe haven—pockets of rebellion have opened throughout the country, and the government cannot deny the existence of Invalids. Regulators now infiltrate the borderlands to stamp out the rebels, and as Lena navigates the increasingly dangerous terrain, her best friend, Hana, lives a safe, loveless life in Portland as the fiancée of the young mayor.

For this review I was tempted to leave it at one simple sentence: It's Lauren Oliver. Of course I couldn't stop there, but it is honestly how I feel. It's Lauren Oliver--Of course you should read it; of course it is phenomenal. It's hard for me to describe how I feel about this book. It certainly wasn't my favorite book in the series, yet it is equally as fantastic--and important--as the other books. 

Let me just say that it is so hard for me to believe that I am inside the head of the same Lena in Delirium. She has come so far! Of course there are still little traces of that girl, especially with Alex being back, but she is part of the Resistance now. She's super tough and determined. Ain't nobody going to mess with her and get away with it! Though she is not my favorite heroine to hypothetically walk the Earth, she is still easy to love and feel for. As for the Big Debate: Alex vs. Julian, I will start by emphatically declaring my spot on Team Alex. Alex is pure beauty. The way he reads poetry to Lena, how he teaches her about a whole other world, how we is willing to sacrifice every single thing he has to offer for what he believes in. I do not believe he was present enough in this novel and that makes me sad. But don't get me wrong, I like Julian, too--just not for Lena. He is sweet, but he doesn't compliment her the way she needs. Also, in this book, we get a glimpse from Hana's point of view. I liked seeing the world from "the other side" AKA the mind of a Cured. However, Hana was not my favorite character. I don't really know why--maybe I just found her a little too passive--but I wasn't hanging on to her side of the story. 

In the final installment of the Delirium trilogy, it is pretty much now or never--fight  or die, join the resistance or conform to the mindlessness. Whereas in Delirium, the book had an underlying hint of hopelessness, and in Pandemonium there was an underlying hint of desperation, Requiem had an overarching feel of urgency. The whole time I was bracing myself, preparing for Shit To Go Down. At the same time...the plot was kind of slow. It was a lot of figuring out what is really up with Hana's future husband, or figuring out which way Lena and her group is going to go. But then once Shit did start to Go Down it went down hard. Oliver's action is pretty frackin epic. Book one is about discovering what Lena wanted, book two is about discovering how to get it, and book three is about getting it.There is chaos and emotion and emotional chaos. And it rocks!  

I know a lot of people were upset by the ending. Oliver leaves a lot open for reader interpretation. While I do wish I got a bit more closure and confirmation on things, I feel satisfied. In Lena's world, hope will pretty much always be crushed. There are no permanent solutions to such a deeply screwed up society. And Lauren Oliver left us with hope, with the idea that things are about to get better, rather than tying a bow around the story that couldn't possibly exist. We're left believing that the characters achieve what they are fighting for, and that they get the life they dream of. 

In the end, it's Oliver's writing that leaves me sighing when I think of this book. Her words are so beautiful, poignant, and meaningful. More than the characters, more than the story line, more than the romance--the writing is what places this series on a pedestal so untouchable in my heart. I will never, ever forget this series and a large reason for that is the gorgeous writing. 

Basically, Lauren Oliver is a goddess and even if this book isn't perfect, it is perfect. And I have not a single doubt in this entire universe that you will gain something from reading this series. The other day, I told my friend that I would sell my soul to write just one book HALF as good as any single one of Lauren Oliver's novels (her response: "Gabbi, you really shouldn't sell your soul. I don't think that's healthy."). 

I know that this review is pretty much a jumble of nonsense. Was it good or wasn't it? It had its flaws, but basically it was such an integral part of an astounding series, that it pretty much has to be astounding itself.

Book Review: Unravel Me by Tahereh Mafi

Unravel Me by Tahereh Mafi

Series: Shatter Me #2
Genre: YA Dystopian
Publication Date: February 5, 2013
Publisher: HarperCollins
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 461
Source: Purchased

Juliette has escaped to Omega Point. It is a place for people like her—people with gifts—and it is also the headquarters of the rebel resistance.

She's finally free from The Reestablishment, free from their plan to use her as a weapon, and free to love Adam. But Juliette will never be free from her lethal touch.

Or from Warner, who wants Juliette more than she ever thought possible.

In this exhilarating sequel to Shatter Me, Juliette has to make life-changing decisions between what she wants and what she thinks is right. Decisions that might involve choosing between her heart—and Adam's life.

Uh, WOW! I am absolutely blown away by Mafi's newest installment, Unravel Me. I enjoyed Shatter Me, but its sequel is something else entirely. It is simply more. Powers are more powerful, angst is more angsty, and sexytimez are more sexy. I was completely engaged the whole time, sucked into the twisted world, ensnared in Juliette's desires and discoveries. Unravel Me is definitely a worthy addition to the YA world! 

Like most book sequels, Unravel Me was less about establishing characters, and more about expanding them. But this book was somehow different than most other book sequels. Mafi introduces all these characters in book 1 and pretty much hands us certain opinions on them: Juliette is misunderstood, Adam is absolutely wonderful, Warner is evil, and Kenji is just some weird, foolish companion. In book 2, however, Mafi reveals that her characters cannot be summed up so easily. Her characters are so incredibly flawed, and troubled, and so frackin real. With this book, we discover that Juliette is actually deeply conflicted, torn between her true self and what people think of her. There were points where she would recede into herself, become whiny, lose the urge to try, and feel sorry for herself. And yet, it didn't feel like Juliette was weak, or annoying, or always depending on people to save her. Sometimes, she needed someone to hold her hand to get through things, but then she'd rise above and make the decisions of her heart, staying true to herself. Really, at the root of things, Juliette is extremely powerful, strong, and pretty kick-butt! If I was unsure about her before, I am now confident that Juliette is not a character that will be easily forgotten, or fade into the blur of other YA heroines. 

We also discover that Adam is extremely moody. I mean, I still love him. I do. My heart broke for him several times. But he became kind of needy in this book. Like, I get that you really care for Juliette, dude. However, if the girl says she needs space just give her some. I don't know, I just wasn't rooting for him as hard as I used to. When he was with Juliette, I couldn't help but melt a little. Just...some of the things he says...*chills.* There are definitely still signs of that sexy, B.A. guy we all used to love. When he and Juliette are apart, though, I like her a lot more, for one. She makes decisions for herself, not worried about what Adam will think or do. Secondly, when they're apart, I realize that an emotional connection to him is severely lacking. We find out some interesting things about him, so I hope in the next book we'll get to see him deal with those things and overcome them, rather than trying to carry all of it on his shoulder. Now Warner is a whole 'nother story. Warner is just...Warner is...I don't even know how to describe ALL THE THINGS I FEEL about him. Before cracking open Unravel Me I kept reading about all the Team Warner advocates and I never EVER suspected I'd hop on the Warner wagon. I didn't think there was anything Mafi could do for me to see him as a legit romantic option. How wrong was I? I don't know necessarily that I would pick him over Adam...yet. It's possible for Adam to redeem himself and secure his position as number one in my heart. But Warner is this intricate man, this person so full of conflict. Another unforgettable character, that's for sure. Warner adds a definite twist to the typical love triangle...and the typical love interest. I mentioned earlier in the review that the sexytimez are more sexy. And, uhm, let me just emphasize that. Because YUM. I can't spoil anything but YUM!

While writing this review, I almost forgot to mention Kenji. Which is ridiculous because he has easily glided up to a high position on my list of Favorite Secondary Characters Ever. He provides the very necessary comic relief. Every word he says makes me want to hug him. There is very obviously more to him than meets the eyes, and while I would like to know his story, what he's seen and experienced, the little mystery makes him much more fun. 

To me, the plot in these books comes second, maybe even third, to the characterization. It's kind of the typical YA dystopian story: a group of "different" people (the brave, the rebel, those with powers) rise up against the oppressive leaders. Blah blah blah. What I want to see more of is the world that Mafi has created. I want this broken, desolate world to have as much depth as her characters. I want to be surprised by the secrets and the treasures and the hideous layers that it holds. I got a glimpse of that in this book, but I want more! This world almost feels real, believable, scary. It's balancing on a precipice and I want it to be tipped. Of course, Tahereh Mafi's writing is beautiful. Sometimes her metaphors and similes and analogies flew over my head, but it's okay because at least they were pretty. The writing style she uses creates a very smooth pace, allowing you to fly through the book.There's not really a "dull" moment. The non-action-packed scenes contain just as much intensity, tension, and rapid flow of the scenes that are bursting with action. 

Basically, Tahereh Mafi manages to exceed the usual YA book, bringing fresh, exciting elements to the table. I closed this book, took a deep breath, and actually said aloud, "Wow. That was good."  Now I'm definitely going to (not really) die waiting for the third installment. Trust me when I say this is a series you don't want to miss. Can Mafi's next book beat Unravel Me? I'm not sure. It was pretty killer. But there is very clearly a distinct possibility. I guess I'll see!

Book Review: Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry

Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry

Series: Standalone
Genre: YA Contemporary
Publication Date: July 31, 2012
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Format: eARC
Pages: 384
Source: Publisher via NetGalley

So wrong for each other...and yet so right.

No one knows what happened the night Echo Emerson went from popular girl with jock boyfriend to gossiped-about outsider with "freaky" scars on her arms. Even Echo can't remember the whole truth of that horrible night. All she knows is that she wants everything to go back to normal. But when Noah Hutchins, the smoking-hot, girl-using loner in the black leather jacket, explodes into her life with his tough attitude and surprising understanding, Echo's world shifts in ways she could never have imagined. They should have nothing in common. And with the secrets they both keep, being together is pretty much impossible.  Yet the crazy attraction between them refuses to go away. And Echo has to ask herself just how far they can push the limits and what she'll risk for the one guy who might teach her how to love again.

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Sometimes there are books you fall in love with before reading. Sometimes you just see it and know that it is perfect for you, that it will enter your heart and sink its claws in and refuse to go away. That's how Pushing the Limits was for me. I saw it sitting on my kindle and, even though the release date was more than a month away, I could not resist. I started it. And devoured it. And never wanted it to end. 

Noah and Echo are two amazing, unforgettable characters. The narration switches between the two of them as we delve deep into their minds and their pasts. And even though it appears that the two have nothing in common, they are actually so perfect for each other. Noah has all the qualities that make up the cliche bad boy that is all too common in YA: player, loner, mysterious past, misunderstood...you get the gist. But he does the bad boy thing so well it definitely doesn't feel cliche. Echo is uptight and she has obedience issues. She jumps at her father's every command. Total opposites, right? No no no. They both have dark secrets and goals that seem impossible to obtain. Working together, they discover they are capable of facing the most difficult challenges of their lives--and falling in love along the way. Both of these characters had so much depth, and I connected to them immediately. Noah and Echo made this novel such an emotional--and incredibly steamy--ride!

Aside from the marvelous characters and their sizzling relationship, my favorite part of Pushing the Limits is that we just keep uncovering secrets. There's always another betrayal, another tidbit of information that someone has kept hidden to protect another person. It makes the book unpredictable, intriguing, and addicting. 

Basically, this book is just amazing. One of the best contemporaries of the year. Actually, one of my favorite books of the year, period. These character and their story has stayed with me for months after I closed the book. If you like books with substance and lots of kissing, this is your book! And if you don't, Pushing the Limits might just convert you. 

Also, don't forget to check out my interview with the author, Katie McGarry. 

Book Review: The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

Series: Standalone
Genre: YA Contemporary
Publication Date: January 10, 2012
Publisher: Dutton Books
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 318
Source: Won in giveaway

Diagnosed with Stage IV thyroid cancer at 13, Hazel was prepared to die until, at 14, a medical miracle shrunk the tumours in her lungs... for now.

Two years post-miracle, sixteen-year-old Hazel is post-everything else, too; post-high school, post-friends and post-normalcy. And even though she could live for a long time (whatever that means), Hazel lives tethered to an oxygen tank, the tumours tenuously kept at bay with a constant chemical assault.

Enter Augustus Waters. A match made at cancer kid support group, Augustus is gorgeous, in remission, and shockingly to her, interested in Hazel. Being with Augustus is both an unexpected destination and a long-needed journey, pushing Hazel to re-examine how sickness and health, life and death, will define her and the legacy that everyone leaves behind.

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The Fault in our Stars was my first John Green Experience. It was life altering. I'm not kidding. I will never be the same after reading this. John Green has written a novel so far beyond the ordinary. It's poignant and highly addictive, with a unique cast of characters, meaningful dialogue, and beautiful pacing. On the real, I was a mess while reading this; a snotty, bleary-eyes, tear-streaked, red-nosed, heartbroken, wailing mess while reading this. There are exactly three books I can recall getting this emotional with while reading and those would be Delirium by Lauren Oliver, Beautiful Chaos by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl, and We'll Always Have Summer by Jenny Han. If you check out previous posts on my blog, you'll no doubt discover how much I adored those books. The Fault in Our Stars has officially been added to my Crazy Emotional Adored Books list. Seriously, I had to get the roll of toilet paper and leave it next to me so I could blow my nose. And afterwards, I was so emotionally drained I could barely keep my eyes open. I now understand why everyone worships John Green. 

I now worship John Green.

Hazel and Augustus are unlike any characters you've ever read, I promise you. Somehow Green manages to make their dialogue a perfect combination of intelligence, sarcastic humor, and depth. I don't know how he did it. I was alternating between laughing and crying. Hazel is quite the scrapper. She was diagnosed with cancer three years ago, but she never gives up. Sometimes she wishes she could die, but I don't think she really means it deep down. She's not typically one to give up. She's strong. She's so beyond her years, too. She's smart and passionate. Determined. An all around marvelous character. And Augustus Waters. My oh my. Augustus AugustusAugustusAugustusAugustusAugustus. I LOVE YOU. Like, he's nothing you've ever seen in a YA boy. I'm not even sure I can put him into words. He's kind and strong and a beautiful person. I wish I could meet a guy like Augustus Waters. Together they go on adventures that are weird and heartbreaking and unique.

I keep saying it's different and unique, but I think what I mean is that everything in this book is astoundingly real. The characters are real, the relationships are real, the plot is real. It's all real, authentic, genuine. It's difficult to explain, but people experience different things in life. John Green really thought out of the box with this book, which makes you wonder if perhaps he is secretly a sixteen year old girl with cancer, obsessed with a certain author worried that she's a grenade. 

This book is stunning. If you don't read it pronto, I will be tempted to, ya know, shank you or something. I can't emphasize enough how much you need to read it. It's moving, fresh, different, and nerdalicious! I didn't even want to like this book. I am a rebel of sorts, and I don't like to flow with the hype. So I didn't want to like it, but I couldn't help it. This book is phenomenal in a way you'll only understand if you read it. There were some sentences, paragraphs, pages, chapters that literally took my breath away. 

Just. Read. It. 

Trust me. 

I'm not kidding. If you don't read this, I will hunt you down....