The Book Addicted Girl

Series: Locked, Book One

Publisher: Self

Format: Kindle

Published: 10^th February 2014

Number of Pages: 219

Book: Sent For Review*

Genre: Romance, Murder Mystery, Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Action-Adventure, Re-Telling, YA, NA

Recommended Age: 14+

Contains:Violence, Death, Swearing, Alcohol, Drug and Sexual References

Available On: Amazon, Barnes&Noble

Author's Blog: Eva Morgan

WARNING: This review will be an excited rambling of a fangirl.

You have been warned…

Eighteen-year-old Irene Adler hasn’t cared much for living since her sister died.

Until Sherlock Holmes moves in next door.

Sherlock is a conceited, sharp-cheekboned nightmare—and Irene’s first real friend in ages. Within a day, he’s partnered with her to solve their school's mysteries. Within a week, he’s saved her life in more ways than one.

Within a month, the whole school thinks he's a murderer.

When Sherlock is found alone with a dead girl, he and Irene must crack the case under a hailstorm of hate—before the killer comes after the genius who gave Irene her life back.

This is a modern-day reimagination of the Sherlock Holmes series by Arthur Conan Doyle.

Review:

“Great. Apparently it's my fate to be frequently alone with Sherlock Holmes. Fate has it out for me…”

Ever since Irene Adler’s sister died, she’s been just going through the motions. Going to school, going home, and at night, sneaking out to solve problems for her fellow students under the alias Ares.

And then Sherlock Holmes moves into the house next to hers.

Sherlock is… different. Ok, he’s a know-it-all, obnoxious, socially-impaired lunatic who gets bored far too easily and gets into fights far too often (though, really, what does he expect when he goes around pointing out everyone’s secrets and talking smack about their mothers?).

He’s also Irene’s first friend since her sister died.

Before long, he’s become her partner in crime – or, more truthfully, partner is solvingcrimes.

He also saves her. He makes her feel alive again, makes her care again, deeply. He protects her.

But then Sherlock is found standing over the body of a classmate – a classmate who hurt Irene. The whole school is certain he’s the killer.

Now, it’s Irene’s turn to protect Sherlock, all the while trying to solve the case – before the killer comes back to take it all away, to take away the boy who saved her…

Team Sherlock Edit! TheBookAddictedFanGirl at work! ;)

I am a major Sherlock Holmes addict. So much so that I really ought to go to SA (Sherlockaholist Anonymous) meetings – Hello, my name is Megan and I am a Sherlockaholic – I am Sherlocked. Seriously though, I've read the books, watched loads of the movies (old and the new ones with Robert Downey Jr – those are my favourites!) and, of course, watched Sherlock and even Elementary (it's my between-Sherlock-series hit). Therefore, when Eva Morgan offered this book to me, I jumped on the chance to review it. And, even though I had two books for my English Lit that really needed reading, I couldn't resist opening Lockedup on my Kindle. And damn if I wasn't hooked from that very first chapter! So hooked, in fact, that I was still reading well into the wee hours. I think it was like five am when I finally finished the book – in one sitting, I might add – and finally managed to calm myself down enough to get some sleep. Ok, I didn’t calm down. I was still crying. I just kinda passed out. And my brain was still totally Locked-obsessed when I woke up. Yup, guys. Seriously that freaking good.

Ok, I’m gonna start with my favourite thing about this book: Sherlock... I've always adored how utterly terrible he is at social interactions. He's a freaking genius, but he's also an utter sociopath – especially in Sherlock, much of which I believe this book is based on. And Locked brought me my favourite version of Sherlock Holmes in a teenager's body, with a teenager's attitude and Sherlock's terrifying intelligence. The combination was brilliant, hilarious and utterly hot. He was also so broken and vulnerable, in his own obnoxious way. And he has been added to my list of Top Five Book Boyfriends. Yup, he's made Top Five. I've always loved Sherlock's various incarnations but Eva's? The best by far. I mean, how can one read this quote and not totally fall in love with Sherlock:

“How much longer will this last?

“Estimate: Not long. Days at most. Something will happen to break through her loyalty. I'll do something to ruin it.

“I always do something.”

I loved Irene too – how she could hold her own against Sherlock's insanity, her sense of humour. She was a brilliant foil to his mildly-crazy ways, but she was a great character in her own rights and I loved her.

But I've got to say, what really made the book was the relationship between the two of them. They had this connection, this bond, that was hilarious, beautiful, insane, touching and impossible to resist. I loved the two of them together, even more than I loved them apart.

And this book... Sherlock... it totally broke my heart. I mean, seriously. I was an absolute bloody wreck by the end, sobbing my eyes out. I'm not kidding. I was literally pleading with the book for I don't even know how many pages: 'Please, no. Please... Just no, please...' I may have forced myself back awake at 5am to finish it. I couldn't leave it where I left it. So thank you, Eva, for completely wrecking me! I’m crossing literally everything hoping that there’s a second book – and soon!

Oh, the writing was amazing as well. Most of it was written by Irene, but there were these little bits, these notes, that were written by Sherlock. Sometimes his notes were funny, sometimes confusing and sometimes they were heartbreaking. I really loved Sherlock’s bits – but Irene was an amazing narrator. I’m just a bit Sherlocked – especially on Locked’s Sherlock. Sorry: I’m totally biased!

So if you haven’t gathered, I adored Locked. I only rarely get the time to read self-published books now, but I am so glad I made time for Locked. It’s actually one of the best things I’ve read this year – and I want all Sherlock fans to go buy it! Even if this is, kind of selfishly, because I want a sequel really really soon!

So Sherlock fans: go, read Locked. Come back and gush. I swear to God, you will not be disappointed. There are just… no words for how good this book was and no end to how much I could gush over it. I just loved it so much! And I need a sequel – please Eva!

Star Rating:
5 Out of 5

Read this book if you liked:

Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle

The Empty Coffins Series by Gregg Olsen

Lux by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Sherlock

Happy Reading

Megan

* This book was received from the author in exchange for an honest review

Series: The 5^thWave, Book One

Publisher: Penguin

Format: Paperback

Published: 7^th May 2013

Number of Pages: 480

Book: For Review*

Genre:Psychological Suspense, Thriller Suspense, Contemporary, Realistic-Fiction, Science-Fiction, Thriller, Suspense, Horror, YA, YA-Adult Crossover

Recommended Age: 14+

Contains:Violence, Death, Swearing

No Alcohol, Drug References

Author's Site: Rick Yancey

Series' Site: The 5th Wave

The 1^st Wave

Took out half a million people.

The 2^nd Wave

Put that number to shame.

The 3^rd Wave

Lasted a little longer, twelve weeks… Four billion dead.

In the 4^th Wave

You can’t trust that people are still people.

And the 5^th Wave?

No one knows.

But it’s coming.

On a lonely stretch of highway, Cassie runs. Runs from beings that only look human, who have scattered Earth’s last survivors.

To stay alone is to stay alive, until she meets Evan Walker. Beguiling and mysterious, Evan may be her only hope.

Now Cassie must choose: between trust and despair, between defiance and surrender, between life and death.

Review:

It’s taken me forever to get this review done, in no small part because I loved The 5^thWaveso much I couldn’t find the words… Also, once I found them, there were just too many words! I rambled – a lot. I’ve done my best to cut back… I don’t think I was overly successful… Enjoy the gushing!

"1st Wave: lights out. 2nd Wave: surf's up. 3rd Wave: pestilence. 4th Wave: Silencer. What's next, Evan? What is the 5th Wave?"

The 1st Wave killed all electrical items – everything run by a battery or electricity or an engine. Everything.

The 2nd Wave created huge tsunamis that destroyed all cities near the sea. Goodbye London, New York, Sydney...

The 3rd Wave created the Red Death, the Blood Plague, the Fourth Horsemen of the Apocalypse. It killed almost four billion people...

The Fourth Wave created the Silencers – things that look like humans, act like humans, until you get too close. Then, they kill you. The 4th Wave isolated the survivors – made sure they couldn't trust anyone.

The 5th Wave? Well, no one knows. It hasn't happened yet. But it will. The Others want the humans dead. They want Earth. And they won't stop until they get it...

Cassie is a survivor. She is alone, on the run, trying to avoid Drones and Silencers. To do that, she needs to be alone. The only way to stay alive is to stay alone.

But then she meets Evan Walker. And he might be her only way of staying alive and finding the one thing she needs more than anything...

Meanwhile, a resistance is assembling. But are their aims true – and if they are, how can they alone possibly defeat the Others – the ones who killed seven billion in the blink of an eye...?

The 5^thWave’s prologue drew me in completely and I just was hooked from the word go! Right from the start, I loved it and knew that it would be my favourite alien-dystopian-sci-fi this year - maybe even ever! I mean, I'm a huge alien-apocalypse fan. Heck, I was watching Prometheusand Independence Day earlier this week, the latter while reading this book. And while Independence Day is a truly brilliant film, all I kept thinking was: ‘Bleh. Shut up, silly movie aliens, and let me go back to The 5^th Wave.’ And that right there is how I know The 5^thWave should be seen as the best freaking alien dystopia out there right now.

But now onto one of my favourite bits of the book (other than the alien stuff). And that was Cassie. She was brilliant – hard and vulnerable, kickass and broken. And so so funny! She was such an awesome character!

And Evan... oh, I just instantly fell for him! He was just so... yum. So perfect. And I swear, it's just impossible not to love him. Evan Walker has now been added to my list of book boyfriends... But am I the only one who suspected, like right from the beginning…?

Other characters: loved Zombie. Loved Sammy. Loved… in fact, all the characters were brilliant, be they human or alien. They all felt very real, be they human, Other, or something… else... They had the best and worst traits of humanity, both the strengths and weaknesses.

And the romance was brilliant. Not too fast, not too slow. Not too much, not too little. Just perfection– making me one very happy little blogger!

I also lovedthe writing - Cassie's voice in particular. She sounded completely real and like any other teen girl - horrible world and all aside. But I just loved her sense of humour - it was kinda twisted and dark and wry, but it often made me smile. I love a girl who can joke in the face of death.

I also loved the split perspectives in this book. It did confuse me to begin with but I soon fell even harder in love. I love split POVs – they are my favourite style of writing. And we had so, so many scrummy perspectives to gobble up, ranging from Cassie and Evan, little Sammy and even a Silencer. Each of the chapters had a kind of distinct feel to them: amazing!

And, oh, how completely hooking the plot was! It was a mile a minute. Just non-stop action, suspense and twists. I loved zooming through it all!

I also really liked that despite the sci-fi setting there were still so many real issues involved - humanity, what's important, trust, love, family, strength. And the world was really amazing! It was like I was right there with Cassie – so terrifying! And I loved his take on the alien genre - these were clever aliens, not the stupid kind that launch a human war. As Stephen Hawking said...

“If aliens ever visit us, I think the outcome would be much as when Christopher Columbus first landed in America, which didn't turn out very well for the Native Americans."

Oh, and I loved that Yancey's main character was a girl. I hate it when authors feel they need to stick to their own gender – this is an all-audiences book. It has something for everyone and is so un-stereotypical and fresh it's untrue. Yay to Yancey for ignoring stupid gender norms!

The 5^thWave is insanely fun and addictive and exciting and I loved it to pieces. And I must say, there was something truly masterful about the way Yancey linked all the stories together, making me doubt everything I thought I knew about a million times over and surprising me even more often. It was somuch fun and was such an easy and quick read – one you're going to want to read in a single sitting, food, work and sleep be damned, so be prepared to take a large chunk from your day to devour this book!

Oh, and be prepared for the insane desperation for book two, the very second you put thus one down. It's all consuming, maddening, and yet The 5th Wave is so worth it.

Still. Don't say I didn't warn you...

Star Rating:
5 Out of 5

Read this book if you liked:

Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

Earthfall by Mark Walden

Lorien Legacies by Pittacus Lore

Billi SanGreal by Sarwat Chadda

Falling Skies

Revolution

The Walking Dead

Happy Reading

Megan

* This book was received from Penguin in exchange for an honest review

Series: Teardrop, Book One

Publisher: RandomHouse

Format: ARC

Published: 24^th October 2013

Number of Pages: 464

Book: For Review*

Genre: Dark Romance, Fantasy, Paranormal, Mythical, Thriller, Suspense, Mystery, YA

Recommended Age: 13+

Contains:Swearing, Death, Alcohol and Suicide References

No Drug References

Author's Site: Lauren Kate

Never, ever cry…

Seventeen-year-old Eureka won’t let anyone close enough to feel her pain.

After her mother was killed in a freak accident, the things she used to love hold no meaning. She wants to escape, but one thing holds her back: Ander, the boy who is everywhere she goes, whose turquoise eyes are like the ocean.

And then Eureka uncovers an ancient tale of romance and heartbreak, about a girl who cried an entire continent into the sea. Suddenly her mother’s death and Ander’s appearance seem connected, and her life takes on dark undercurrents that don’t make sense.

Can everything you love be washed away?

Review:

“Never, ever cry again…"

Ever since she was a little girl, Eureka Boudreaux's mother has been told that she can never, ever cry - no matter what.

But now Eureka’s mother Diana is gone, killed in a freak accident, and Eureka feels as dead as her mother. She feels broken, empty, and secretly wishes she'd died alongside her mother.

And everywhere Eureka goes, there's Ander. Ander, the mysterious boy who knows all kinds of things that he shouldn't know. The boy who is the first person since the accident to worm his way past her defences, the boy who brings her closer to tears than she ever has been in her life.

And then, at the reading of her mother's will, Eureka is left an old book in a language no one she knows can read. And Ander carries on following her, warning her, protecting her...

Behind the secrets and confusion lies an ancient story, one that ended in pain and death. Can Eureka escape fate? Or will everything she's ever loved just... wash away…?

I must say, I really did enjoy the Fallen series. And therefore I just knew I needed Teardrop - ASAP. I was even more intrigued once I read about the concept behind the book. I've got to admit, I preferred Teardrop. I just adored the uniqueness of the mythology and found myself one-hundred-percent hooked from the beginning.

I also couldn't help seeing the similarities between Luce from the Fallenseries and Eureka. Both are pretty damaged, drawn to the mysterious types, have weird pasts/destinies... For some reason, this kind of muddied my feelings towards Eureka for a while. But I do prefer her to Luce, I think. Even though Eureka is so very broken and distant, you can still feel her pain. Anyone who's ever lost someone close to them will be able to relate to Eureka and what she feels for her dead mother. So even though there were times when I could literally smack the back of Eureka's head, I still found her a compelling and thoroughly interesting character, albeit not always overly loveable.

Then there’s Ander... I'm not entirely sure what to make of him. I didn't love him or hate him. He did the whole stalker thing, which I'm not a fan of (hello: felony?) but he was doing it for a reason, unlike certain other characters. I just don't think he was really in it enough for me to get a proper read (no pun intended). There was also the whole sorta insta-love – on Eureka's side, at least. It was more understandable for Ander. I'm really interested to see where the two of them are going...

As for the other characters, I absolutely loved her best friend Cat: she was brilliant! And Eureka's younger siblings were too cute!

But I've got to admit, the whole best-friend-being-in-love-with-female-protagonist-causing-a-love-triangle is beginning to really bug me. It's just so, so overused now. I mean, why can't a boy and girl be friends without one being in love with the other or one being gay? Seriously: people of opposite genders can really just be friends! I know, I was shocked by this too…. Ok, sorry for the rant. It’s not even overly justified here, because the before-mentioned love triangle wasn't what it first appeared to be...

The plot: well, I found it damn near impossible to tell where the book was taking me. I may have guessed a few twists, but I was just so drawn in by the story. It may have started kind of slow following the prologue, but it added to the suspense, the mystery.

And there's no denying that Kate's writing is amazing – both in Teardrop and in her other books. I must say, I loved the kind of pained-angsty feel to the writing – it really fitted in with Eureka's personality. However, perhaps due to the third person and Eureka's withdrawn emotions, I did find it a little hard to really connect with her... The subtle(ish) religious undertones bugged me a bit, too. As someone who isn't overly religious, I do get a little annoyed when religion is thrown in so often – although again, I guess it's to be expected given the mythology and setting... But distance and religion aside, it's really hard to fault Kate's beautiful writing.

Especially any of the bits that referred to the Book of Love and the love story within. I mean, the mythology in Kate's book is one of the most unique I've ever come across. It's just so freaking cool! Seriously cool! Seriously! And after that ending... well, I can't wait to see what happens next!

All in all, I loved Teardrop. The story and mythology were both so utterly unique, the writing beautiful and the characters interesting. Whilst certain aspects did bug me a little, I am desperately awaiting the second books – my mild annoyances were completelyovershadowed by the bits I really like about this book.

Star Rating:
3¾ Out of 5

Read this book if you liked:

Fallen by Lauren Kate

Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl
Revenants by Amy Plum

Happy Reading

Megan

* This book was received from RandomHouse in exchange for an honest review

** Quotes used are from a proof copy and may have been changed in the finished book

Alternate Title: The Demon Trapper's Daughter (USA)

Series: The Demon Trappers, Book One

Publisher: Macmillan

Format: Paperback

Published: 7^th January 2011

Number of Pages: 448

Book: Bought

Genre:Urban Fantasy, Paranormal, Dystopia, Futuristic, Magic, Action-Adventure, Thriller-Suspense, Mystery, YA

Recommended Age: 13+

Contains:Swearing, Violence, Death, Drug and Alcohol References

Author's Blog: Jana Oliver

Riley Blackthorne. Kicking hell’s ass one demon at a time…

Riley has always wanted to be a Demon Trapper like her father, and she’s already following in his footsteps as one of the best. But it’s tough being the only girl in an all-guy world, especially when three of those guys start making her life more complicated:

Simon, the angelic apprentice who has heaven on his side; Beck, the tough trapper who thinks he’s God’s gift, and Ori, the strikingly sexy stranger who keeps turning up to save her life.

One thing’s for sure – if she doesn’t keep her wits about her there’ll be hell to pay…

For Older Readers

Review:

Riley Blackthorne is the only child of legendary Demon Trapper Paul Blackthorne and is now following in his footsteps. She's good too - not that the patriarchal idiots in charge of the Trapper's Guild appreciate that. But with more and more demons coming into our world, they’re willing to let this girl into their all-man world.

Even after she totally screws up. On a routine assignment, a Grade Five Geo-Fiend attacks. In case you don't know, this is bad. For one, Geo-Fiends are the highest level of demons under the Archdemons. Two: demons don't work together. Ever. A Geo-Fiend shouldn't be helping a stupid little Grade One Biblio-Fiend out; it doesn't make sense. But third, and even more worrying: why is the demon interested in Riley? What does it want from her?

Trying to deal with necros, demons, the Guild, three hot guys and a sudden, devastating loss leaves Riley spiralling out of control.

Who can she trust? Who can she love?

And can she prove her worth - prove that she should be a Trapper? While keeping her life - and her soul...? While fighting the hardest damn battle the Trappers have ever faced? When their most trusty weapon might be even less use than a fluffy little bunny?

And, more importantly, will her self-appointed keeper, the hot and infuriating Beck, let her do anything by herself? Like, ever..?

I’m going to start off by saying that I adored the setting of Forsaken. You have so many hunter books now, thanks to Buffy and Supernatural. And yes: this was a book about a demon trapper. But it was set in the future – in a horrible world where much of society just seems to be falling apart thanks to a really serious economic crash that has left only the super-rich able to afford things like college or gas cars. And then, of course, there's the whole demony-side... Yeah, it was awesome. I loved it! It was so freaking cool! And so different! Basically, Forsakenwas a book that was sure to win my heart before I even read the first word. And man it succeeded. It won my heart so damn quick and hard that I needed the next book. Like, right now. I'm hooked!

Is it obvious that I loved Forsaken? No? Whoa. Maybe I should expand...

Let's start with the characters. I loved 'em all. I especially loved how I could hear all the accents – I especially loved Beck's Southern drawl! But, accents aside, my favourite character had to be Riley. She was just so brilliant – her witty quips and snarky comments were just hilarious and really reminded me of one Buffy Summers, AKA my fave kickass heroine ever! Her habit of talking to herself was brilliant too – and sofunny! And she was strong as nails, tough as steel, but vulnerable too. She was a totally kickass demon trapper, but she still had relationships problems, still got picked on. She just felt real. One-hundred-percent real real real.

And my joint favourite was without a doubt Denver Beck. I adored Beck. He was hot. He was also such a sweetheart: the kindest, most caring guy ever. He too was the perfect blend of steel and heart – he was one seriously epic fighter and Trapper, who took alcohol to meetings, wound people up (especially Riley) and acted pretty damn goofy. But he was also so very vulnerable and broken. I just loved all the hidden sides of Beck and he is definitely a huuuggee part of my needingto read on! Team Backwoods Boy, people!

The other guys in Riley's life were all very varying. First off, Simon – such a sweetheart; so kind and good. But he's a bit... I don’t know, too good? Too... safe? Ok, I admit. I'm totally biased. I like the snarky, bad-boy types. So, basically, I'm a Beck girl through and through. Sorry, Simon. It's not your fault. With Beck, you just didn't stand a chance with this girl.

As for Ori... I kinda thought he'd have a bigger role, judging by the blurb. But he only came in like over half way through. However, he did have that whole mysterious-hot-type thing down. He intrigued me. I have two theories about him... I can't wait to see which is right...

One of the guys I didn't like? Harper. I wanted to punch him. Hard. And yet... I don't know. He had his redeeming factors. Kinda. Occasionally... I don't like him by any stretch of the imagination, but I wouldn't shove him at a Five just for the hell of it. High praise. Kinda...

Enough of the characters and onto the world. It was... well, terrifying. It was just so gritty– even for urban fantasy. I think it was the whole disintegrating society thing. That added a whole other layer of grit. And also just all the paranormal stuff too. The demons... Well, I'd quite like a little Magpie. They were cute. But Geo-Fiends? Grade Threes? Um, no thanks. Scary. And Biblio-Fiends? HELL NO! Peeing on my books and destroying them? I think I'd rather have a Grade Five in my house! Of course, that's just the book addict talkin', not the, like, survival instinct part of me... Speaking of: The necromancers terrifiedme... But what was with the no-girls-in-trapper-club thing? I mean, hellooo, sexist much, Trapper dudes? And given how utterly kickass Riley is, you could do with a few more gals like her!

Oh, but it’s good to know that McDonald's survives the demon apocalypse/collapse of society. I've always been dreadfully, dreadfully worried that I won't be able to have a McFlurry one day. My fears, it seems, are unneeded, though.

And yes. That was all sarcasm.

But moving on... to the writing. I freaking loved it. Why? Because the POV was split between Riley, who I loved, and Beck, who I freaking loved! It was also really interesting – seeing his motives, seeing the world from his perspective. Also, he's older than most YA narrators – more mature too. Ergo: much more interesting perspective! Kidding, kidding: I love Riley. Love her to pieces. But Beck... he was older, war-damaged, mature(ish) and... I just loved him, 'kay? But seriously: loved the writing. And the plot: I freaking LOVED the plot! It was so awesomely... awesome. So righteous and butt-kicking (I think they're two of Riley's favourite words). I was totally hooked, start to finish. And that ending! Ohmigod! Evil! Gimme Forbidden. Like now.

With one kickass girl, a whole bunch of hot guys (hottest of all Beck) and a world to end all other paranormal worlds, Forsaken was one hell of a start to a series I just know I'm gonna love. And to all you paranormal junkies out there? Pick this up. Right now. It's so freaking awesome and unique and awesome. And I know I said awesome twice, but it deserves two awesomes. So pick it up! It's freaking amazing and I can't wait to get my greedy little hands on Forbidden.

Dammit, where's a Magpie when you need one?

Star Rating:
4½ Out of 5

Read this book if you liked:

Fire City by Bali Rai

Carnival Of Souls by Melissa Marr

Billi SanGreal by Sarwat Chadda

Buffy The Vampire Slayer

Happy Reading

Megan

Publisher: HotKey

Format: Paperback

Published: 5^th June 2014

Number of Pages: 240

Book: For Review*

Genre:Paranormal, Supernatural, Urban Fiction, Horror, Thriller, Suspense, Action Adventure, YA, YA-Adult Crossover

Recommended Age: 14+

Contains:Horror, Death, Swearing, Drug, Cigarette and Alcohol References

Author's Site: James Dawson

The truth is more terrifying than the legend

When Bobbie and her best friend Naya are dared by their schoolmates to summon the legendary ghost of Bloody Mary, neither really believes that anything will happen.

So they complete the ritual, and chant Mary’s name five times in front of a candlelit mirror…

Bloody Mary, Bloody Mary, Bloody Mary…

And something is called forth that night.

Something dark, terrifying, and out of control.

She will be there, just out of sight, in the corner of your eye.

She will lurk in your nightmares.

She will hide in the shadows of your bedroom.

She will b waiting in every mirror that you see.

She is everywhere. And she wants revenge.

Review:

“Five days. Five days to die. Five days to find her before it was too late...”

It was only meant to be a game - a stupid, childish game, played to freak them all out on Halloween at midnight.

Bobbie was sure it was all crazy: that it couldn't be real.

She was wrong.

From the moment Bobbie, her best friend Naya and town-boy Caine stood in front of the mirror and candles at midnight and chanted 'Bloody Mary' five times, they set something loose – something that can't be stopped.

To begin with, the signs are small and easily dismissed. The words 'Five Days' are scrawled on the mirror one day. One of the girls present while they chanted Mary's name falls ill. The three who said the name get nosebleeds at the same time...

But it's not a coincidence – none of it is. Because Mary is real and she wants revenge.

She cannot be stopped. She will not be stopped. She will haunt them, torment them and torture them until she has her revenge – and they are dead.

And Bobbie, Naya and Caine have only five days to figure out how to stop her...

Drip, drip, drip...

“BLEED LIKE ME…”

A little BookAddictedFanGirl picture!

I always love a good horror – be it in book or movie form. And James Dawson is a master of horror writing (as well as being Queen of Teen 2014) – something truly displayed in Say Her Name. Right from the start of this book, I was absolutely hooked. I loved how it was such a suspenseful read: the suspense was wracked up slowly, slowly, messing with my mind the whole time. I'm going to admit this: I really, really wish I hadn't read Say Her Namein the middle of the night... Not my brightest move because this book was freaking terrifying! I seriously recommend reading it in the middle of the day in a room flooded with natural sunlight – and with all the mirrors covered up. Because otherwise: nightmares alert! Not for me, of course... I'm totally immune and definitely didn't throw a towel over my bathroom mirror, keeping it covered for days...

Bobbie: well, I always love a fellow writer (aspiring one, anyway) as a character. I liked that Bobbie was kind of odd: she wasn't your typical paranormal heroine – she was smart, funny, a little awkward and unsure of herself. I found that refreshing. She was also (justifiably) scared but was just as brave, too. I think most girls can relate to her – ghosts aside, of course...

I really loved Naya, Bobbie's best friend: she was brilliant! I loved how snarky and mouthy she was, and also how she showed her vulnerable side. Gotta love the sassy ones!

And then there was Caine: I really liked Caine. He wasn't what you first expected and I loved that. He was more than just some boy from town – he was strong and sweet and just... the perfect hero-ish boy. And I really liked how the relationship between him and Bobbie developed: it was sweet and real – again, ghosts aside...

The rest of the cast was brilliantly real. There was no denying that, although loads of them were complete cows... Mary I found absolutely intriguing, however, right from the start.

But the writing... I swear, it felt like I was there – like I was Bobbie, being stalked by a crazy, terrifying ghost. And Good God, it was scary as hell! The suspense James managed to build... I was on the edge of my seat for every single word on every single page. And, as mentioned before, I was scared witless – yes, to the point of covering all mirrors... Hey, it's like Jaws! It takes you a while to get back into the water, so to speak. And trust me: if you read this, if you live this terror, you'd be a little... nervous, too. However, James did manage to get these funny moments in: that did help my terror a little. Even so, I was always just waiting for the other shoe to drop: for the scary to come crashing back as Mary made another deadly move...

And as for the story: terrifying. Honest-to-God terrifying. I mean, the way James just wrenched up the suspense, the horror, the fear... I've never read anything like it. In fact, I've been a little scarred by it! Hence covering the mirrors…

Oh, and I have to mention the Bloody Mary legend – it was by far the most interesting Mary myth I've come across. I mean, totally terrifying but brilliantly intriguing.

To sum it up, I recommend Say Her Name to literally everyone who wants to be hooked start to finish, perched right on the edge of your seat. However, if you scare easy, stay the hell away! This book is terrifying! For all horror movie lovers, on the other hand, dump your Paranormal Activities DVDs and pick this up. It's much better, much more intense, and much better for your brain (not your nerves, though...). So what are you waiting for?!

But something to end with that scares the pants off of me: When James signed my book he wrote 'I dare you to say her name'. I can definitely, bluntly and honestly say that I will never, ever, ever say her name. Like, ever. I'm logic-less: I'm not suicidally stupid. But if you want to try it, go ahead. But be prepared to be terrified, tortured and killed.

Look, don't say I didn't warn you...

Oh, wait... I've said her name more than five times in my notes on my tablet... Does that count as saying her name?! DOES IT?!

Good God, I'm dead...

Star Rating:
4 Out of 5

Read this book if you liked:

Hollow Pike by James Dawson

Anna Dressed In Blood by Kendare Blake

Supernatural

Happy Reading

Megan

Series: Skulduggery Pleasant, Book Three

Publisher: HarperCollins

Format: Hardcover

Published: 6^th December 2008

Number of Pages: 395

Book: Bought

Genre:Paranormal, Fantasy, Comedy, Urban Fantasy, Thriller, Suspense, Horror, Action-Adventure, Mystery, Children's, YA, Children's-YA Crossover

Recommended Age: 10+

Contains:Violence, Death – Lots And Lots Of Violence And Death! – And Mild Swearing

No Alcohol or Drug References

Author's Blog: Derek Landy Blogs Under Duress

Skulduggery Pleasant Site:Skulduggery Pleasant

WARNING: COULD CONTAIN SPOILERS... AND A LOT OF FANGIRLING.

YOU'VE BEEN WARNED...

“Valkyrie screamed, sprinting towards Skulduggery. He looked up and reached out to her, but it was too late…”

You’ve seen it all before: some bad guy wants to bring about the end of the world, and Skulduggery and Valkyrie fight valiantly to stop it happening. A few people get hurt, sure, but everything’s all right in the end.

Well, not this time.

Review:

"There's a prediction about me, you know. I die and the world ends..."

Honestly, you save the world not once, but twice, and then another guy pops up, wanting to start the tango all over again. We all know how it goes. Skulduggery and Valkyrie (a living skeleton sorcerer detective and his teenage trainee-sorcerer-sidekick) get involved to stop the end of the world. Things get sticky. Someone probably gets kidnapped. Or injured. Or turned to stone. Or killed. But they always win – always. They always save the world by the skin of their teeth and fix everything last minute.

This time, though, it's different. You know the Faceless Ones? They’re the evil, homicidal gods who were exiled eons ago. The gods who want to kill all humans. And crush all the goodness on earth. And are just, plain and simple, evil.

Well, someone's found a way to get them back. To bring them back from their exile and into our world – you know, the place they want to destroy. Yeah, it's safe to say that if they come back, things are gonna get very very bad very very fast.

Which is why Skulduggery and Valkyrie have to act quickly. Someone's been killing Teleporters – Teleporters who are the key ingredient to opening the gates between the Faceless Ones and us. And Skulduggery needs to find out what the killer’s angle is before it's too late.

Can they stop the Faceless Ones returning? What will be the cost...? Will their full forces be enough this time?

Will anything be enough..?

Have I mentioned yet how much I love this series? No? Really? Man, we've got through like twenty lines without me saying I love Skulduggery Pleasant? That's gotta be a new record! But I'm about to ruin my streak. I freaking love this series. It is one of my very favourite series in the history of the world. And, at the risk of totally repeating what I've said in like every review of the Skulduggery series so far, it's so much fun! You can just completely forget about the world, food, water and sleep when you pick up a Skulduggery book. And I do. They're too freaking good!

And good God do I love the characters. Like all of them. Well, apart from the evil ones. Who likes evil characters? That's just weird.

But as always, my favourite is the Skeleton Detective. Skulduggery, I don't care what they say: I love you. You are funny and kickass and hilarious! I can literally never read a scene with him in without laughing my head off. He's just... awesome. And soooo funny. And I just love him. Team Skulduggery!

Valkyrie, you're awesome too. I love you. I wish I was you. You’re strong, kickbutt, funny and brave. I’m also jealous: I want magic and Skulduggery as a partner. But I digress: I love Valkyrie. She's just brilliant and the most amazing lead girl.

Now, I found Fletcher Renn equal parts infuriating and hilarious. When I read the series for the first time I think I was a bit too young to crush. Or maybe I was just blinded by the other, hilarious characters. But now... Fletch is kinda hot. He has that whole snarky, rebel, bad-boy thing goin' on. And y'all know how much I like my bad-boys. This isn't as creepy as it sounds. Fletcher is seventeen... And reeaallly funny.

Ok, so I know I say this every time, but I love Tanith and Ghastly. Tanith especially. Why? Cause she is kickass! She's also awesome. I also love China – she's so complicated and yet so straightforward. And I love how she always alwayscomes through. No one seems to expect her to, but she does. And I'd kill for her powers! Only not really. Because that would be wrong…. Echo-Gordon was one of my faves, though.

On the other end, someone I could literally punch was Crux. I seriously wanted someone to eat him. Preferably vampires. He just wound me up! The Diablerie, AKA the Real Bad Guys, weren't very nice either. Or at all. And they were all really sneaky. Sanguine makes me laugh, though. I think it's the accent.

And man, this world just gets more and more awesome. For example, Necromancers. They rock. The way the control shadows... Legendary! Kinda like the Darkling, though not as evil. The Teleporters are awesome too. Especially since Fletcher is like last-guy-standing. Go Fletch!

The writing, as always, amazing. Loads of awesome and funny scenes of witty banter. Also some of the best action writing out there – lovin' those fight scenes! Speaking of action: hot damn, there was a lot of it! This plot was literally nonstop! And sooowonderfully twisty. I'm always kept on my feet with Landy's books – just another reason to love them! Although that ending... Oh. My. God. This is my second or third read, but each time the ending hits me like a suckerpunch to the stomach. Derek Landy, welcome to the royal hall of evil cliffhangers...

Something I really love, though, is that it's a book for everyone. You can be old, young, a boy or a girl, and you'll still love this series. With so many boys, if there's a main character that's a girl, they'll just roll their eyes and push the book away. Not with Skulduggery. For one, there's a whole bunch of other awesome characters. And two, Val isn't a normal girl. And even if she were, that's not what this is about. It's about good versus evil, non-stop action, skeleton detectives and getting completely and utterly lost in a book. And I love that. It's perhaps the main reason I love Skulduggery Pleasant. That everyone can enjoy it – there's no set reading group, no stereotypical audience. And I like that. I lovethat.

And I need more. Now now now. I swear to God, this series is like a freakin' drug. And The Faceless Ones? Just yet another kickass amazing instalment to this brilliant brilliant series. Please, I don't care how old you are, pick up one of these books and you'll get it. You'll love it. You'll want more as much as I do.

Thank God I have Dark Days. Now, where did I put it...?

Star Rating:
5 Out of 5

Read this book if you liked:

Skulduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy

Percy Jackson by Rick Riordan

The Spooks' Apprentice by Joseph Delaney

Department 19 by Will Hill

Buffy The Vampire Slayer

Happy Reading

Megan

Series: A Song Of Ice And Fire, Book One

Publisher: HarperVoyager

Format: Paperback

Published: 1^st January 1996

Number of Pages: 8o6

Book: Bought

Genre: Epic Fantasy, Fantasy, Action-Adventure, Thriller Suspense, Mythical, Adult Fiction, YA-Adult Crossover

Recommended Age: 15+

Contains:Violence, Death, Swearing, Blood, Gore, Sexual and Alcohol References

No Drug References

Author's Site: George R. R. Martin

Kings and queens, knights and renegades, liars, lords and honest men.

All will play the Game of Throne.

Summers span decades. Winter can last a lifetime. And the struggle for the Iron Throne has begun. It will stretch from the south, where heat breeds plot, lusts and intrigues’ to the vast frozen north, where a 700-foot wall of ice protects the kingdom from the dark forces that lie beyond.

The Game of Throne.

You win, or you die.

Book One of A Song of Ice and Fire begins the greatest fantasy epic of the modern age.

Review:

"When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die..."

In a land that is dangerous and unpredictable, the Iron Throne is coveted by all.

In a land where no one can be trusted and allegiances change in a heartbeat, to play the Game of Thrones could mean death.

But none of them have a choice: the game has already begun and each already have their part to play....

Ok, so since I mostly review YA and children’s books on this site, I'll -needlessly, I'm sure - point out that A Song Of Ice And Fire is NOT a children’s series. Hell, at times, I wondered if I was old enough to read it! But yeah. Just thought I'd state that for any of my younger readers...

Moving on... I've been meaning to read and then watch the Game of Thronesseries for ages. Finally, after my exams, I thought: What the hell? So I picked up my - very substantial - copy. It took me a few chapters to really get into the book - and about three times that long to get all the family names straight in my head! But pretty damn soon, I was completely hooked. I don't really know what it is about this book, but it is freaking additive.

However, I don't know if my heart was made for books like this. I have a habit of getting attached to characters: a habit I'm sure will kill me if I continue it with the Song Of Ice And Fire series. I just couldn't help it: I could feel myself getting attached to these characters and I just knew I'd most likely be crushed sooner or layer - probably sooner, given Martin's notorious reputation of character-killing... And so I was crushed. Just as I'd start to really love a character, bam! Bye bye. Dead. Gone. But I didn't learn - I don't think I'll ever learn!

And so, because I'm a glutton to punishment, I did have favourites. Arya was obviously one of them: that kid is badass. I loved Eddard: he was the most noble person in the whole damn book. Jon, his illegitimate son, was brilliant too - as was his middle son, Bran, who was so brave. I really liked Dany as well: she was a sweet girl with a git of a brother. Tyrion may have been my favourite: that guy is awesome and so snarky! I don't care for Lannisters, but I'll make an exception for Tyrion! However, I have this dreadful, ominous, and most likely totally correct given the events of this first book, feeling that all the characters I love will die, and all the ones I hate will live... Le sigh... And I also fear for my favourite shippings: the two I loved quickly perished. Sigh. Not looking good for my heart, is it...?

Now, I've heard some badish things about Martin's writing: that's it's mediocre. I actually rather liked it. Sure, it wasn't the most lyrical I've come across but it fit in perfectly with this world and these people. Plus, I'm all for any epic fantasy that doesn't read like J.R.R. Tolkien's dry and long books. I mean, all the gore and fighting and world building... it was phenomenal. Seriously. And so much easier and more fun to read than the likes of Lord Of The Rings.

The plot... I was a little confused for a while. In fact, about half way in I wondered where this plot was going. I mean, sure, fights for the throne and all that, but... Let's just say, s*#t got real pretty soon. And people died. Like a lot. The slogan for Game Of Thrones should be: “No one was safe. No life was certain.” So yes, the plot was wonderfully complex yet also totally intriguing. I really enjoyed it.

Oh, I've got to mention the world, because I adored it! The history was so rich and vivid it’s untrue. The extent of the story that Martin has created is incredible! I mean, I thought the epic fantasies I’d read were amazing, but A Song of Ice And Fire

However, I wasn't so keen about the incest, sexism and misogynist views that were so present throughout the whole book. Saying this, though, given the kind of alternate-world time period the series is set in, I guess it was to be expected. I mean, look at all the stuff that went on during the War of the Roses: illegitimate kids, kings having orgies, people marrying their first cousins, etc. etc... I'm sure you get my drift. What I'm trying to say is that you can be annoyed about an aspect of the time period without it clouding your enjoyment of the book. And trust me when I say that it really didn't – ok, I may have rolled my eyes a little about how many times the word 'whore' was used throughout the story, but other than that, no real complaints. I mean, there were some kickass women in this book and they pretty much made up for it.

So now we reach the end of my review. My feels for this book are so very hard to put into words. I really, really enjoyed A Game Of Thrones. It was… phenomenal. Totally just… I really don’t have the words! It was an amazing book and I can see why everyone is so obsessed. I’m totally obsessed now, too! I needed the next book the very moment I put A Game Of Thrones down! It is… epic. I have no better words than truly and utterly epic.

So I’ll leave you all on that epic note and go and read A Clash Of Kings…

Star Rating:
5 Out of 5

Read this book if you liked:

Lord Of The Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien

Cousins Series by Philippa Gregory

Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling

Study Series by Maria V. Snyder

The Grisha Trilogy by Leigh Bardugo

Happy Reading

Megan

Series: Study, Book One

Publisher: Mira

Format: Paperback

Published: 21^st September 2007

Number of Pages: 416

Book: Bought

Genre:Fantasy, High Fantasy, Paranormal, Magic, Romance, Mystery, Suspense, Action-Adventure, YA

Recommended Age: 13+

Contains:Violence, Death, Alcohol and Sexual Assault/Torture References

No Drug References

Author's Site: Maria V. Snyder

Blurb from Goodreads:

Choose:

A quick death

Or slow poison...

Yelena has a choice – be executed for murder, or become food taster to the Commander of Ixia. She leaps at the chance for survival, but her relief may be short-lived.
Life in the palace is full of hazards and secrets. Wily and smart, Yelena must learn to identify poisons before they kill her, recognise whom she can trust and how to spy on those she can’t. And who is the mysterious Southern sorceress who can reach into her head?

When Yelena realises she has extraordinary powers of her own, she faces a whole new problem, for using magic in Ixia is punishable by death...

Review:

"To Yelena, our newest food tester. May you last longer than your predecessor…"

Ixia is a military state, run by the Commander. It is split into eight Military Districts, each ruled by a General. This is Yelena's world.

Yelena is in prison, awaiting her hanging. She's there because she killed the son of one of Ixia's Generals. A life for a life. Her death is imminent - any day now.

And then she's summoned. At first she thinks they've scheduled the hanging.

She's wrong.

She's called in by Valek, one of the Commander's most loyal advisors, person security chief and leader of the intelligence network of Ixia. And she's offered a chance. A chance to live.

She can either become the Commander's food taster and risk her life every day, or she can die right now.

Yelena is no fool. She would rather live in fear of poison than die from the hangman's noose.

But the poison might not kill her. She's trapped in a whole new world, one where she doesn't know who to trust, who will try to kill her next, and one where a powerful southern magician is after her. When Yelena discovers her own hidden gifts, life becomes even more dangerous than it ever was. Every way she looks, every possible path she could take, seems to end in death.

What do you choose when the only choice is to die...?

I adore Maria V. Synder. The woman is a freaking legend. Literally everything she writes is pure gold. Her fantasies are some of the best I've ever come across. And her Yelena Zaltana series is one of my favourites. Partly due to the world. Partly due to the characters. A large part due to the amazing Yelena. And partly - ok, mostly - because of Valek. I have a minor crush on Valek... But seriously. This is my second read of Poison Study and I still love it just as much – was still just as hooked! It is one hell of a book – with one hell of a book boyfriend living within!

God, all of Snyder's characters rock. They are all just so very real and awesome and complex and hard to judge! And I love or hate them to absolute pieces. As in, I either want to hug-slash-marry them or cut them in half!

Yelena is everything you could possibly want in your leading gal: tough, strong, smart, resourceful and damaged in a way that makes her even more vulnerable and hard at the same time. She was really kind of ruthless – so dangerous – and yet she was also one of the sweetest people ever.

And then Valek. Oh, Valek. You are so wonderfully complex and so completely irresistible. I loved trying to figure him out - and seeing that sweeter side of him! And an artist too... a damaged, bad-boy assassin-artist. Excuse me while I swoon!

I absolutely adored Janco and Ari – they killed me! They had to be two of my favourites in the book, barring Yelena and my dear Valek. They were just so funny! Then again, I did have a wee bit of a soft spot for Rand – he was sweet, though I wasn't so keen on his moodiness and emotional instability. Then again, it was all understandable really... I also liked Maren: she was totally fierce! And the Commander... For the longest time, I didn't know what to do with him. But he was so so much more than meets the eye – his secret was genius and made me so proud of him, he was just so strong and so brave.

But I hated Reyad so so much. I was slightly put off by the fact that Yelena had killed someone for a reason no one seemed to know. And then, slowly, we found out why. And I hated Reyad's guts. I could literally murder him dead dead dead. He was horrible – the devil. I could have strangled him! How could he do that to Yelena? How could anyone do that to another person?! Wasn't so keen about the surviving baddies either: Grr...

The relationships were brilliant. I especially loved the romantic one between Valek and Yelena. It wasn't instalove. It wasn't instahate. The relationship was slow and sweet, with each earning the other's trust little by little as their bond bloomed and grew. I loved every single moment they spend together and am just aching for more Yelena-and-Valek moments! I also, however, loved Yelena's friendship with Janco and Ari – it was so funny! I wish I had big brothers like them!

Maria's world building is literally second to none. Each and every one of her worlds are incredible, intricate, complex and beautifully created. They honestly take my breath away. Study's world could not be more real if Maria V. Snyder wrote a million-page book just on this very world (which I would still read, by the way). And I loved how she described it – much like Bardugo's writing, this world wasn't heavy. There wasn't infuriating over-description: more than enough details for technocolour but not enough that my head began to hurt.

And there was literally always something going on in this book – there wasn't a single dull moment anywhere! There was always a conspiracy or a mystery or spying or fighting or bone-melting romantic suspense scenes. Many of the events in the plot I just did not see coming. I loved every single twist: absolutely loved them all. And I liked that people died. That sounds so twisted, but I always find a death or two is more realistic... Man, I need help...

Sometimes you just need to read the first few pages of a book to know that it's special. In my opinion, Poison Study is that book: I knew by the second chapter that it would be a five star read – and it only got better from there! It may be a book about magic but it has a magic of its very own. It completely bewitched me, having me up until three in the morning to finish and then immediately ordering the next book. If only I hadn't had exams when I first read it: I could have read the entire series three times over by now – and still wouldn't've had enough of it all and of Valek!

A book full of magic, spies, treachery, murder, friendship, passion and a bit more magic, Poison Study is something The Book Addicted Girl recommends one-hundred-percent with all of her heart, be you a high fantasy lover or a contemp queen. Read it. You'll love it. Trust me. But Valek's mine, so back off...!

Ok. When does Magic Study get here? If it's longer than two days I'm reordering the book on my Kindle. I can't wait much longer to finally get my hands on Book Two...

Star Rating:
5 Out of 5

Read this book if you liked:

Throne Of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

Grisha Series by Leigh Barduho

Gracling by Kristen Cashore

Touch/Glass by Maria V. Snyder

Happy Reading

Megan

Hi fellow book addicts! So nice to catch up with a few of you at YALC - hope you had as brilliant a time as I did!! But back to the present - I have presents!! Four of you lucky ducks can win a signed set of Easy and Breakable, courtesy of Penguin! How can you resist?! To enter, simply use the Rafflecopter widget below!

I'm really, really sorry to any international followers, but this is UK only! It ends Saturday 26th July - just one week from now!! So enter ASAP for your chance to win!! Oh, and check out my Giveaway Policy before entering please!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Series: Blue Bloods, Book One

Publisher: Atom

Format: Paperback

Published: 22^nd February 2010

Number of Pages: 336

Book: Bought

Genre:Paranormal, Supernatural, Urban Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Thriller, Suspense, Action Adventure, YA, YA-Adult Crossover

Recommended Age: 14+

Contains:Violence, Death, Swearing, Smoking, Alcohol, Drug and Sexual References

Author's Site: Melissa de la Cruz

Blurb From Amazon:

They're Young, Fabulous and Fanged…

And they rule Manhattan from the trendy uptown clubs to the downtown boutiques. Fifteen-year-old Schuyler Van Alen has never quite fit in at her exclusive prep school - she's more of a vintage than a Versace girl - but all that's about to change…

Because Schuyler has just found out she's a Blue Blood. The Blue Bloods are the city's glamorous - and secret - vampire elite. They're young, beautiful and powerful. But now they're being murdered. And Schuyler must find out who - or what - is behind it before she's next.

Review:

“You are the newest Blue Bloods. Today is your induction into your secret history. Welcome to your new life…"

Schuyler Van Alen goes to the prestigious Duchesne School – a school full of socialites and the ridiculously wealthy. But even though the Van Alen family is so deeply intertwined with Manhattan history the two are indistinguishable, Schuyler has always felt like an outsider in her society.

But, as it turns out, she's part of a group of outsiders. A group of gorgeous, rich and powerful vampire elitists.

Schuyler is a Blue Blood – a vampire. She's immortal – she will never die. Understandably, it's a lot to take in.

Taking it all in gets a lot harder when the fellow Blue Blood and super-rich-and-popular Jack Force reveals that Blue Bloods – who, according to The Committee, cannot be killed; by anyone or anything – are being murdered. Forever. With no returning.

Something is hunting the Blue Bloods – an old and ancient foe that no one, especially The Committee, want to admit exists. And it's hunting Schuyler now.

Nothing is as it first seems. No one are how they first seem to be. And no Blue Blood is safe...

Man, I love this book! I don't know what it is – it is just totally addictive! And so original! I absolutely adored the vampire lore – and my taste of high-society-American-life. And all the mystery: damn, it was hooking! Blue Bloods was like Gossip Girl meets Vampire Diaries meets CSI. Awesome!

And damn do I want to be a Blue Blood! It’s just all so very cool! Well, aside from crazies stalking them and blood lust and whatever... And the weird twinny-thingy. Still. Minor technicalities…

Onto Schuyler... I liked Sky. She was weird, unique and wonderfully odd – oh, and funny, sweet and brave, too. But mostly awesomely weird. I like weird. And I like a girl who always, always sticks to her guns – and Sky never backed down, not ever. She was awesome.

Oh, and her best friend Oliver was brilliant too – he was such a sweetie. But what is it with best friends crushing on other best friends who don't return their crush? Seriously, people: what's with that?! Even so, I loved Oliver.

I loved Jack too. He was... yum. Sure, he was very very easily manipulated (damn, his twin was evil!) but I still liked him a lot – he was so... noble, almost. I guess that's what immortality does to you. I'm intrigued about where he’ll go next. But that bond with his sister? Freaky with a capital F… It also didn't help that I really wasn't overly keen on Mimi. I just didn't like the girl – she was too reckless, too cold, too... Mimi.

But now I just have to gush about this world! I mean, the vampire lore is some of the coolest and most original I've ever come across – I just gobbled it up! And I so wanna be a Blue Blood! The mythology is all so rich and detailed and wonderfully built up: I loved it and totally believed everything. But onto the more... upper-class-ish side of the world building...

Now, as a total fashion bimbo, I must say that I don't get all the designer brand stuff. So I will admit that the extensive name dropping and clothes description wasn't my favourite part of the story. But then I was like, ‘Hey. This is a book about the one-percenters and to them, this stuff is every day.’ The lavishness of everything just added to the high society atmosphere and made me feel, for a bit anyways, like a hot, fanged, rich-rich-rich girl with designer everything and immortality to boot!

Seriously, can I be a Blue Blood?

I found de la Cruz's writing irresistible. It was so gorgeous and so utterly hooking. I liked how we got to see from lots of people's perspectives, even if sometimes I wasn't overly sure whose head I was in at the time (it jumped occasionally within sections, which threw me a bit at times). But even so: so utterly gorgeous.

And as for the whole mystery, plot-line side: hot damn, it was awesome! It was a little slow to begin with, but the suspense... Well, it just built from the word go. I was tugged right into the heart of the mystery, totally hooked and absorbed. I could not stop reading – not for anything. And if anyone had tried to take my book away whilst I was reading... Well, I would've ripped their arm off to get it back: I simply had to continue reading and I just had to know how everything ended. And I must say, I was surprised by a lot of the twists. Not all of them, but some.

So, if you haven't read Blue Bloods and are looking for an utterly different and unique take of vampires, this is for you. But here's a little warning: you will not be able to put this book down no matter how hard you try, so don't expect to get much else done the day you read it. God knows I didn't. But don't say I didn't warn you guys: you will want to read it in one sitting and you will be dying to pick up Masquerade the second you put Blue Bloods down.

Speaking of, where the heck have I put my copy of Masquerade? I simply must know what happens next! I gots to know, people!

What can I say? I'm utterly hooked.

Star Rating:
4 Out of 5

Read this book if you liked:

Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

Angel by L.A. Weatherly

Rephaim by Paula Weston

The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare

Happy Reading

Megan

Series: The Mortal Instruments, Book Five

Publisher: Walker Books

Format: Paperback

Published: 8^th May 2012

Number of Pages: 560

Book: Bought

Genre: Dark Romance, Fantasy, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy, Romance, Action-Adventure, YA

Recommended Age: 12+

Contains:Violence, Drinking, Death, Faerie Drugs, Swearing

No Alcohol References

Author's Blog: Cassandra Clare

WARNING: This Will Be A Rambly And Long Review From A Crazy Fangirl. Said Fangirl Has Tried To Cut This Review Down. She Has Failed. Miserably.

Oh, And There Will Be Spoilers.

You Have Been Warned.

Jace is now a servant of evil, bound for all eternity to Sebastian. Only a small band of Shadowhunters believe he can be saved. To do this, they must defy the Clave. And they must act without Clary. For Clary is playing a dangerous game utterly alone. The price of losing is not just her own life, but Jace’s soul.

Clary is willing to do anything for Jace, but can she still trust him? Or is he truly lost?

What price is too high to pay, even for love?

Review:

We’ll start with a little rambling, before the spoilers (and more rambling) begins…

City of Lost Souls is engrossing, all consuming. I left the house without it and nearly went stark raving insane wondering what would happen next. It's one of those books that you simply can't put down without going round the bend! If you're planning on reading any book in this series, make sure you clear out a whole day or two so you can read it without distractions! Or, unlike stupid ol' me, DON'T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT IT!!!

Spoilers begin now…

"Kill me, little sister. Kill me, and you kill Jace, too..."

Jace Wayland disappeared the night Lilith died – along with her and Valentine's son Sebastian, the boy with ebony eyes and demon blood in his veins.

The Clave has been searching for them ever since and Clary has almost killed herself with worry. She thinks she's imagined the worse until she runs into Jace and Sebastian.

And sees that Jace... isn't her Jace anymore. He's evil, bound to Sebastian forever.

Everyone thinks he's beyond saving. Believes he's evil now too.

Apart from the ones closest to him, the ones willing to do anything to get their Jace back. Even if it means breaking every single rule ever made.

Or, in Clary's case, risking her life to get more information, risking Jace's soul, as she tries to find a way to bring him back to her...

Y'know how you pick up a book cause you can't sleep and want to find out how it starts, and then end up reading two hundred odd pages and stay up til three AM? CoLS? So that book. Really I should have known better; after all, Clare has kept me reading way into the night before. Really I only have myself to blame, thinking I would be able to stop reading a book with Jace Wayland and Magnus Bane and Simon Lewis in for any other reason than I was about to pass out from exhaustion. Stupid Meg! But, man, was it worth it! I couldn't put it down (lack of sleep fainting aside) and was totally absorbed and invested in the plot and characters. This series will never get old to me, not when there are so many wonderfully snarky characters and such a kickass world I've already got my bags packed, ready to move there like right now! But how, how, how am I meant to wait months and months and months for the next book?! Damn stupid waiting! I need more: NOW!!

The characters… I’m sorry, but I warned you about the rambling, people…

Jace, even with your evil on you are utterly irresistible. And seeing Izzie's memories of Jace as a kid – just break my heart why don't you! I love Jace so much – even twisted Jace. But is it wrong that I love the not-Jace? He still has the snark and wit...

Oh, who cares. That boy is darn irresistible.

Clary Fray... I like Clary, I really do. But are you an idiot?! C'mon, self-destructive much? Still, I love how much tougher and kickass she's gotten, how awesome she is at fighting. Well done Clary! But she was selfish. Clary, Clary, Clary. Why, why, oh why did you have to become one of those girls?

Magnus Bane, oh, how I love you! He is so cute and funny and eccentric and just so... Magnus! He is just my favourite! He makes me giggle and he really brought humour into otherwise crappy situations. He himself said that he was "not a hero", but he loved Alec enough to stay and fight. I love him so much for that.

And Simon, oh how I adore you! Sweet, loving, warm, so, so human Simon who is just the best-hearted person in the whole book. He’s really the hero of the story, the one who was pure and sweet and good and... well, I just love my "Warrior of Heaven"!

I love Izzy, the fierceness and how she's totally independent, would do anything to help the ones she loved. She may look cold and hard, but she's so vulnerable inside, beneath the hard-ass-ness of her – and beneath the whip, too!

Oh, Alec! I love you so much but don’t do that! Stupidity aside, my heart broke to see how horrid the other Shadowhunters treated him – they aren’t open-minded when it comes to sexuality…

Sebastian... I hate him! He is an even better villain than Valentine – meaning, he's even MORE dreadful! He has such believable motivations and reasons for his craziness – but don’t think that I don’t want to jump into the book and muder him dead! He was truly intriguing and terrifying!

I adore all of the characters in this book, but I just loved how some of the more minor characters got starring roles in this. I loved getting to know some of the characters I didn't really know that well before. Maryse Lightwood really came through for me: how much she loved Jace just really made me warm to her. I loved Simon's sister Becky: she was so sweet and added a perfect feel to the story.

And I lovethe couples in this book. Simon and Izzie were perfect, even if they weren't exactly 'official'. Jace and Clary I've always loved 'cause they belong together. But Magnus and Alec were my all-time favourite. They were PERFECT! And so darn cute! If they don't work out, I will cry my eyes out. I'm warning you two! The 'bromance' between Sebastian and the not-Jace was intriguing. I hated what Sebastian had done to Jace, but their banter made me laugh nonetheless!

Oh and how the hell does Clare write in the way that makes me unable – like, physically unable – to put down her books? How does she make me feel like I'm right there in the world, with all the others, like I'm a Shadowhunter too and there for the action? I've decided how. Cassandra Clare is MAGIC!

And COLSmay have had the best plot of the series. It was just non-stop and super-fast, and I loved how some of my favourite minor-ish characters got their own chunk of the story line. COLS was just jam-packed with subplots and suspense. It was addictive and could so easily have been confusing, but it just wasn't. However, the problem with following many various characters' stories is that there will inevitably be some you don't like as much and some you to find and carry on with their story. Though they grew on me, the ones I wasn't so excited about were Maia and Jordan. The ones I skipped for? Always Jace and Clary. And also Magnus and Alec. And Simon and Izzie. It's not that I didn't like the Jordan-Maia scenes, some were actually pretty hot, just that I didn't feel as connected to them, as fond of them. Nonetheless, this book addictive! It was fast-paced and exciting and absorbing. Perfection!

And God, I wanna move to this world. Like, so bad it's driving me insane! I wanna be a Shadowhunter, have a Seraph blade and kick demon butt! Book Fairy, PLEASE let me wish my way into this world! PLEASE!

It's honestly crazy how much I love this series. If you ask me, it just keeps on getting better and better. I know there are fans who disagree, but I love it so, so much. I guess those are the ones who thought it was just a trilogy and never thought more books would come out. I always thought it was a series and read it as such. I just adore everything about this series – and this book.

Sure, there were not-so-good bits, but the story and characters and world just outshine everything and anything. It's almost intoxicating. God, I love it... But, WHY, WHY, WHY must I wait a year for the next book!?!?! I'm going to go insane!

Ok, I could go on and on and on about this book – well, more than I already have. I loved it so much I'm not sure if all my rambling has even done this incredible book justice. I loved it do much I couldn't put it down, couldn't stop reading until I passed out from exhaustion. And now I've begun the rambling again... What I was trying to say was that this book, this amazing, pure awesome book, is so good I can't even tell you. So all I'm gonna say is read it. Read the series – PLEASE. I know you'll love them just as much as me – how COULDN'T you?! So please, even if you're sick of paranormals or don't like them, please, please, please read these. I'll love you forever if you do!

Star Rating:
5 Out of 5

Read this book if you liked:

The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare

Lux by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Rephaim by Paula Weston

Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

Challenges It's Taking Part In:

100 Books in a Year Reading Challenge 2012 (Hosted by Book Chick City)

Happy Reading

Megan

Series: Skulduggery Pleasant, Book Four

Publisher:HarperCollins

Format: Hardback

Published: 1st April 2010

Number of Pages: 320

Book: Bought

Genre: Paranormal, Fantasy, Comedy, Urban Fantasy, Thriller, Suspense, Horror, Action-Adventure, Mystery, Children's, YA, Children's-YA Crossover

Recommended Age: 9+

Contains: Violence, Death – Lots And Lots Of Violence And Death! – And Mild Swearing

No Alcohol or Drug References

Author's Blog: Derek Landy Blogs Under Duress

Skulduggery Pleasant Site: Skulduggery Pleasant

WARNING: COULD CONTAIN SPOILERS... AND A LOT OF FANGIRLING.

YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED...

“Valkyrie turned to the portal. The wind whipped her hair, and she could feel the gravitational pull, eager to welcome her. She ran, straight into the yellow…”

Skulduggery Pleasant is gone, sucked into a parallel dimension overrun by the Faceless Ones. If his bones haven’t already been turned to dust, chances are he’s insane, driven out of his mind by the horror of the ancient gods. There is no official rescue mission. There is no official plan to save him.

But Valkyrie’s never had much time for plans.

The problem is, even if she can get Skulduggery back, there might not be much left for him to return to. There’s a gang of villains bent on destroying the Sanctuary, there are some very powerful people who want Valkyrie dead, and as if all that wasn’t enough it looks very likely that a sorcerer named Darquesse is going to kill the world and everyone on it.

Skulduggery is gone. All hopes rest with Valkyrie. The world’s weight is on her shoulders, and its fate is in her hands.

These are dark days indeed.

Review:

"Valkyrie, I hate to be the one to tell you this, but your friend is most likely dead."

"Of course he's dead. He's a skeleton."

Skulduggery Pleasant is gone, missing, taken, held hostage by the homicidal gods known as The Faceless Ones.

Valkyrie Cain will go to any length to get him back – including risking her own life.

But meanwhile criminals that Skulduggery and Valkyrie put away are gathering. Their plan? To destroy the Sanctuary – and Valkyrie Cain.

Things are looking grim.

Grimmer: the mysterious and dangerously powerful Darquesse, whose only goal is to destroy the world... And on top of this, they can trust no one at the Sanctuary.

Yup, things are looking pretty damn dark...

If only they had Skulduggery to help them... Cue foolish planning, now...

God, I adore this series! I've seriously forgotten how much I love it. Even on my second or third reading, it's just so damn good! Dark Days was action-packed, hilarious and just as magical as all Skulduggery Pleasant novels. I literally can never get enough of Skulduggery and co, and Dark Days really didn’t disappoint me – in fact, it was better than the three that came before it, which I thought impossible. How Derek Landy always manages to completely outdo himself with each new book is beyond me, but he does, and it's awesome. Also, totally addictive. I can't wait to continue my reread in the big run-up to the final book! But God knows I'm going to be a snivelling mess by the time it's done!

Ok, Valkyrie is getting to be soo awesome! She's growing up a lot, you can just see the difference, like her getting crushes. I was really impressed by how natural and subtle Derek made her growth feel – Val really does seem so much like a real person, albeit one with magic, razor-sharp wit and more strength than a million elephants. And even though I know where she's going, I can't wait to see it!

Skulduggery: I love him so much. I really wish people would stop saying mean things about him (in the book) 'cause I adore him. He's funny, bonkers, snarky and smart and is my favourite ever detective – and this includes Sherlock from the BBC TV show, so that's sayin' something!

I loved Fletcher too – he was so cute and obsessed with his hair! However, I always see Jedward whenever I think of him... Don't ask... Tanith was, as always, brilliant (I do so love the kickass girls in this series) – as was Ghastly (brilliant, I mean, not a kickass girl). I also really like China, even if she is a bit... creepy... Oh, and Finbar is amazing– that guy kills me each and every time!

The villains in Dark Days were epic. You had the Revengers Club (or Vengeance Brigade, depending on who you ask), who were made up of familiar and new faces, and then there was the mysterious Darquesse... My favourite (though I probably shouldn’t have a fave villain) was Billy-Ray, purely because he cracks me up. But all the villains were pretty awesome.

And damn, I love the writing in these books – the dialogue in particular! The characters never lack a snarky thing to say, some witty and brilliant comeback. I love that. I also love how amazing Derek's writing is: reading his books is like watching a film inside my head, which is awesome. These books are just the perfect escape for reluctant readers, in my opinion!

As for that plot... all the twists, the turns, the action, the murder, the excitement... It's enough to hook a girl for eternity. And as for the ending: cliff-hanger alert! I mean, I saw it coming this time, but the first time I ever read Dark Days: serious jaw-drop moment.

And I really quickly have to mention the world in these books, because it is awesome– seriously, awesome! Magic, monsters, mayhem, awesomeness… I want to move to this world and become a sorcerer so badly!

I also want to say how much I appreciate Derek writing to please everyone. There's magic, science, adventure, suspense, humour and friendship in this book, appealing to a wide audience. I also love how it's not aimed at boys or girls. I mean, Val's a girl but Skulduggery plays just as big a part. Boys and girls alike love this series – and some not-so-boys-or-girls too – and they're all so very right to. Skulduggery Pleasant is one hell of a series and everyone, everywhere ought to pick it up. Right now. I'll be waiting.

Oh, but before you go I want to and this: Dark Days was dark in the most delicious way. It left me wanting more, as always, and I seriously can't recommend it - all of the bokos actually - enough.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go read Mortal Coil and those of you who haven't read Skulduggery Pleasantneed to go read that ASAP.

Happy reading!

Star Rating:
5 Out of 5

Read this book if you liked:

Skulduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy

Percy Jackson by Rick Riordan

Department 19 by Will Hill

The Spooks' Apprentice by Joseph Delaney

Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Happy Reading

Megan

Series: Skulduggery Pleasant, Book Five

Publisher:HarperCollins

Format: Hardback

Published: 2^nd September 2010

Number of Pages: 604

Book: Bought

Genre: Paranormal, Fantasy, Comedy, Urban Fantasy, Thriller, Suspense, Horror, Action-Adventure, Mystery, Children's, YA, Children's-YA Crossover

Recommended Age: 10+

Contains: Violence, Death – Lots And Lots Of Violence And Death! – Gore And Mild Swearing

No Alcohol or Drug References

Author's Blog: Derek Landy Blogs Under Duress

Skulduggery Pleasant Site: Skulduggery Pleasant

WARNING: COULD CONTAIN SPOILERS... AND A LOT OF FANGIRLING.

YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED...

“The blonde girl with the black lips turned to Valkyrie.

‘We know,’ she said. ‘We’ve seen the future. We know you’re going to kill the world…’”

Skulduggery Pleasant is back, but all is not well in the magical community. For one thing, there’s an unstoppable assassin with a metal mask on the loose… and for another, Valkyrie has discovered that she is Darquesse, the evil sorceress set to destroy the world. The problem is, she doesn’t feel she can tell Skulduggery what she’s learned, and so she must try to change her terrible destiny alone.

But the price of changing your destiny is high, and if she fails, she’ll die alone too.

With Valkyrie on her own quest, Skulduggery and the gang are even more vulnerable. Which is a shame, as the Necromancers have a body-snatching Remnant that they’re about to release…

When no one is who they seem, when she can’t trust her friends and her enemies are closing in from all around her, the only thing Valkyrie can do is run.

Review:

"When you're dealing with magic, you can never trust your enemies to stay beaten, or to stay dead…"

So I'm going to try to give the spoiler free version of this plot...

Alright, so Valkyrie Cain just found something out – something huge, so huge she doesn't know what to do.

So huge and so horrible that she can't even tell her friends...

Something... life shattering...

Meanwhile, the Irish Sanctuary is reeling from... well, the bomb that killed most of them. It needs to be rebuilt from the bottom up – preferably safely and securely.

Yeah, right.

And on top of all of this, some mysterious people are plotting to take Skulduggery, Valkyrie and the Sanctuary down. You know. Again.

Oh, and the Remnants – evil soulless things that killed thousands last time they were free – are walking among the living once again. And this time, they have a purpose– which is “bloody terrifying”, to quote Tanith Low…

All in all, it really isn't going too well.

But then, when does anything ever go right for this group?

Once again, I'm going to state how much I love the Skulduggery Pleasant series. And each book is even better than the last. Take Mortal Coil, for example. It still had all the action, all the humour, all the fun, all the magic – but it was darker too, more... grown up. More YA than children's – but still appealing to a pre-teen audience, as well as an older one. What can I say: the magic that is SP appeals to everyone, everywhere. It's just so freaking good that it's untrue! So good, in fact, that I finished this 570-odd paged book in an afternoon – on the edge of my seat and laughing my head off the whole time, of course. For that is the magic of Skulduggery Pleasant: more addictive than drugs and funnier than Live At The Apollo crossed with hilarious animal videos.

Valkyrie... I really felt for the girl in this one. Poor Val. Still, she's so strong, even when dealing with all these really tough things. And funny all the way through, of course!

As for Skulduggery: I love him so much. I don't care about all the kinds, all his dangerous and borderline-sociopathic tendencies – he's so funny, so good, such a good friend to Val... I really hope he stays this way…

Tanith: she rocks. Like totally. Ghastly is amazing too. China, whilst being quite cold at times, is awesome. But Fletcher Renn really stole the show for me. He kills me – he’s so funny, but if his ego was any bigger, planets would revolve around him. Seriously. Also, I've gotta say, I kind of liked Billy-Ray in this one. He was good... ish and so freaking funny. And Clarabelle, Grouse's assistant, absolutely killed me – she always does! She's so ditzy! It's brilliant and so, so funny! Val's dad is brilliant too – he, too, is freaking hilarious! Um, have you gathered that I adore the characters in this book, flaws and all? You have? Awesome: moving on.

Once again, Landy's writing is stunning. Like I've said multiple times, his writing is pure magic. The dialogue is hilarious and so witty: Landy really knows how to ramp up the suspense and make you laugh all at the same time. His fight scenes are beyond compare: so vivid and bloody that you can see it all in your mind...

And as for the plot of Mortal Coil: holy hell, Batman! This plot was nonstop thrills, spills and violence! Seriously, there were so many freaking twists it was untrue. I never knew where I would go next. I also didn't know who would survive til the next chapter: Derek really has a passion for killing off his characters... Seriously, though, Mortal Coil was dark and exciting and suspenseful and I loved every single moment of this twisting rollercoaster.

I can't believe it took me this long to point it out, but I'm really pleased that Skulduggery Pleasant isn't set in America or even the UK – there are sooo many paranormals set in the USA so one set in Ireland is a really nice change. The notion of Ireland being "a cradle of magic" is cool too – much, I guess, like the theory behind Sunnydale in Buffy or the house and nexus in Charmed; natural sources of magic and supernatural activity. This is really turning into a nerdsfest, which wasn't my original point at all (I think) so I'll move on now...

Anyway, what I'm trying to say in this long and rambly fangirly review (well, might as well continue the trend: I have a whole series of fangirly SP reviews – why stop now?!) is that Mortal Coilis the best book in a brilliant series. I could be stuck on a desert island with any of the SP books and I'd be happy for eternity because they just never get old. SP is the perfect escape and I will love it forever and ever. I will also never stop recommending it to everyone, no matter their age, gender, etc – not even when I'm old and grey and meant to pretend I like 'intellectual' books, like War and Peace.

So yes. Mortal Coil is amazing. And you all need to read SP. Right now. I mean it: I can't recommend it enough.

Derek, I love you and you are my god. I worship you the way the Remnants worship Darquesse. Maybe that's wrong, but I don't care.

And on that (mildly disturbing) note: Megan out.

Star Rating:
5 Out of 5

Read this book if you liked:

Skulduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy

Percy Jackson by Rick Riordan

Department 19 by Will Hill

The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Happy Reading

Megan

Series: Devil's Kiss, Book Two

Publisher: Penguin

Format: Paperback

Published: 1^st July 2010

Number of Pages: 384

Book: Bought

Genre:Paranormal, Supernatural, Urban Fiction, Horror, Thriller, Suspense, Action Adventure, YA, YA-Adult Crossover

Recommended Age: 14+

Contains:Swearing, Loads of Violence... and Death... and Suspense... and Werewolves... Some Alcohol References

No Drug References

Author's Blog:

Billi SanGreal is a Knight Templar and has thrown herself utterly into their brutal regime, shutting herself off from everyone and everything.

But when Billi finds herself at the heart of a savage werewolf attack, she knows their target – a young girl – must be rescued at all costs.

For this is no ordinary girl. Vasilisa is an avatar with an uncontrollable force within – and it’s not just the werewolves who want her. The Dark Goddess wants to sacrifice Vasilisa and use her powers to unleash unimaginable catastrophes and devastation.

Can Billi protect Vasilisa from the ancient goddess – and at the same time stop her from destroying the world?

Review:

When a book starts with a dead body, you know you're in for a freaking awesome and terrifying adrenaline ride. I should've expected it anyway. Those who have read Devil's Kiss will get how good Chadda is at writing horror, deaths, sadness, betrayal, and badass teenager Templar Knights. Sarwat, you are officially one of my favourite people ever…

The one person Billi SanGreal cared about most is gone. Her way of coping? To throw herself into her duties as a member of the Knight Templar. Fighting the Unholy, saving lives and getting all battered up is a pretty usual night for her.

And then everything goes south. Because Billi gets caught up in a werewolf attack. Something unlike anything she's seen before.

The target? A little girl named Vasilisa.

The motive? Who knows!

Ok ok, I know. So does Billi. And the Knights Templar.

The girl is... special. Really special. Special enough for a secret Unholy organisation with a deadly mission to spring up, intent on stealing her.

Can Billi keep the girl safe, even when she's totally out of her depth and in a country she doesn't even know? When she's up against enemies stronger than anything she's ever faced before?

When she's forced to ask a question that could either save or destroy the world...?

And when she starts to fall in love again?

This is Billi Sangreal and she is here to save the world. Hopefully...

Sarwat Chadda, I officially love you. Not only have you managed to bring Billi SanGreal back with a bang, but you've brought her back in a story that is somehow even better than Devil's Kiss, in a story that is fast-paced, action-packed, emotional, and at times slightly terrifying. And how I love every single minute!

Billi: oh, I love you too! She's just so funny, so tough, so reluctantly caring, so stubborn and so totally kickass! I also really love that she just feels so real. She's flawed but in a totally believable way. She's tough but also relatable. She's mature but in a way that's completely truthful to her personality and lifestyle. She's just the perfect heroine. And I am just... I don't want to let her go. I want more of her. So please, please, pleasepeople at Penguin. Publish the third Billi book! I will buy a million copies if you'll just PUBLISHit so I can just READ it!! And damn you, Sarwat, for giving me those first few chapters! Now I’m even more desperate!

I'm sounding slightly crazy right now so I'll move onto Ivan. Now, Ivan... I may have started thinking you were a stuck up Tsarevich, but I love you now and see you for the broken, beautiful, caring, noble guy you are! I didn't think I'd be able to love someone as much as Kay, but I loved Ivan just as much! Maybe... maybe even more...

The rest of the cast was brilliant – and all very varied. And I'm pleased to say that Sarwat didn't let me down and killed off loads of them! That sounds really twisted but c'mon! They're freaking Templar Knights! I'm sorry, but some of 'em are gonna die. It's just the way life works, people. You know, in books about demon hunters anyway... But still, Sarwat! Did you have to scare the hell out of me so many times? I'm not sure how many more of these close shaves and horrible, terrifying fearsmy nerves and heart can take!

Right now, in so, so many YA books, it's all about the romance. Sure, there's like demons or ghosts or whatever, but much of the plot is about the romance. Dark Goddess is such a refreshing change to that trend! It's all about the world, the suspense, the horror, the action, the evil and the people. The romance? Just the sprinkling on the cake that is this killer of a book. It doesn't overwhelm the hard, violent story but also adds a nice break – a sweet dash of sugar in this action-packed thriller. And I loved that. I reallyloved it. And it means that this book, this wonderful wonderful book, is perfect for boys and girls.

I also loved the history of the Bogatyrs: like the Templars, only Russian and led by long-lost descendants of Tsar Nikolas. Russian history is one of my favourites. I love Tsarist Russia and absolutely adored all the elements of it in Dark Goddess. Especially the one where there's a secret organisation led by a secret Romanov. That's awesome. And of Baba Yaga. She is freaking terrifying... But also just the tour of Russia as it is today. Ever since Markus Sedgewick's Blood Red, Snow White and Richelle Mead's Vampire Academy, I've wanted to visit Moscow and St Petersburg. And after reading Dark Goddess I want to go even more! It all just felt so real – like I was actually there!

One of my favourite things about Sarwat's books is that nothing is sugar coated. People die. Like, a lotof people. There are sacrifices, there are losses and it's not all happily-ever-afters either. It just completely sets him and his books aside. Well, that and the plot. Have I mentioned the plot? Not really? Well, it was kickass. Like seriously. I never saw the twists coming, I never guessed what would happen next, I never knew who was – and who wasn't – going to die, I never even knew how the book would end – as in, with a fave character's death, more heartache, happy-ever-after or with no world left... Yup. That bad. That good. Man, I want another book...

Towards the end of the book, I found it really hard to read. Not because it was a let-down or anticlimactic or anything. Oh no. Completely the opposite. It was just so good I didn't want it to end! Ever. Which, if you ask me, is the sign of an amazing book. And Dark Goddessreally truly was an amazing book. Even better than Devil's Kiss, something I didn't even think Sarwat would be able to manage. I adored every single moment of this book and just could not put it down, even when I really didn't want it to end... It didn't make sense to me, either. But seriously. If you haven't checked this series out, you absolutely have to. I don't care if you're thirteen or one hundred, a boy or a girl: you will love this book and you will see it for the unique brilliance that it is. Trust me.

Dark Goddess started with a dead body and ended with dead bodies – and one hell of a bang. Now it's time for me to pray, hope and beg for the release of a Billi SanGreal Book Three. Would it help if I put in a gif of someone begging? No? Oh well. You're getting one anyways, people at Penguin. This is how serious and desperate I am.

Because when a series is this good, it should be illegal to stop it. A death penalty offence. Which is saying something, since I like in the UK where there is no death sentence, and when I'm against it anyway. But now do you get how desperate I am?! I need more Billi, more Ivan, more Templars and more of everything this book is about. As soon as possible. Please...

Star Rating:
5 Out of 5

Read this book if you liked:

Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

The Demon Trappers by Jana Oliver

The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Supernatural

Challenges It's Taking Part In:

100 Books in a Year Reading Challenge 2012 (Hosted by Book Chick City)

2012 Debut Author Challenge (Hosted by The Story Siren)

British Books Challenge 2012 (Hosted by The Overflowing Library)

Happy Reading

Megan

Series: Schrodinger's Consortium, Book One

Publisher: Entangled

Format: Kindle

Published: 25^th November 2014

Number of Pages: 400

Book: For Review*

Genre:Science-Fiction, Paranormal, Fantasy, Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Romance, Urban Fantasy, YA

Recommended Age: 14+

Contains:Violence, Death, Swearing, Alcohol References

No Drug References

Author's Site: Tonya Kuper

Reality is only an illusion.

Except for those who can control it…

Worst. Birthday. Ever.

My first boyfriend dumped me—happy birthday, Josie!—my dad is who knows where, I have some weird virus that makes me want to hurl, and now my ex is licking another girl’s tonsils. Oh, and I’m officially the same age as my brother was when he died. Yeah, today is about as fun-filled as the swamps of Dagobah. But then weird things start happening…

Like I make something materialize just by thinking about it.

When hottily-hot badass Reid Wentworth shows up on a motorcycle, everything changes. Like, everything. Who I am. My family. What really happened to my brother. Existence. I am Oculi, and I have the ability to change reality with my thoughts. Now Reid, in all his hotness, is charged with guiding and protecting me as I begin learning how to bend reality. And he’s the only thing standing between me and the secret organization that wants me dead…

Review:

Josie's seventeenth birthday sucks – latest in a line of suckiness. Her dad's vanished. Her boyfriend broke up with her. An awesome interning job fell through. Her mom's being super protective. And she's now the age her brother was when he died. All in all, a great day. Not.

But also... things keep happening. Things that don't make sense...

And then a total hottie rolls up to school on a motor bike, sporting a tattoo just like Josie's brother had...

The hottie is called Reid. He's come to drop a huge bomb.

Josie has powers. She's in danger. Bad guys are gunning for her. Her life has been a lie. Oh, and he's got to train her quickly – as in, before it's too late and war starts.

No pressure there. I mean, where are the Avengers when you need them...?

I saw Anomalyon NetGalley and instantly thought: gots to have it! From the moment I began reading, I fell totally and utterly in love. This book... Holy Thor! It was freaking amazing. I was just instantly hooked! Anomaly was hilarious, exciting, action-packed and full of brilliant nerdy references. Many of its elements weren't stunningly original (nerdy lead girl, former crush, snarkiness, hotness, sci-fi stuff), but when put all together, along with a whole load of awesome, the result meant Anomaly was just stunning. It was so much fun and I loved every single second of it. I seriously cannot recommend Anomaly enough!

Now, when dealing with awesomeness, start with the awesome characters. And Josie was awesome. She was nerdy, funny, clever and, if you haven't gathered by this point, awesome. Her Star Trek, Star Wars, Big Bang Theory and Marvel comics references killed me every time. I also loved her "I was just wired to be weird"– the girl had some brilliant snark! Her reaction to what she really was felt so utterly believable and realistic – I mean, who deals with 'you're not quite human' and 'your life's a lie' with a happy grin? She was brilliant and so was her development!

Reid was amazing too – and totally crushworthy! He, too, was snarky and funny – but he was serious and motivated too. And badass – do notforget the badassness of Reid! He was just amazing.

Oh, and Rosie (Jeid?) was perfect too! They were so cute, so hot and so brilliant. I loved seeing the two of them together and just loved them!

I loved Josie's best friend Hannah as well – she was the perfect counterpoint to Oculi craziness and was really sweet and funny. And Santos killed me too! Oh, and I loved that Josie's mom had to use a cane, but that she hated any help. She didn't want to be treated like she was incapable, like all disabled people (well, unless the hill is really steep...) Go Mrs H! Well, not really. Mrs H was also rather cold and rational. I was very torn about Mom…

But the writing was perfect. Split between Reid and Josie, the action was non-stop and also funny as hell! I loved getting both sides of the story – loved Josie's nerdiness and Reid's badassness. Together, it was like the perfect little mix for my bookish loves! I mean, all those geeky/dorky references... it was like dying and ending up on the Enterprise (not really, since I'm not really into Star Trek, but the dorkiness of the statement seemed fitting). Seriously, all I needed was the mention of D&D or Rock, Paper, Scissors, Lizards, Spock and I literally would've been on geekdom cloud nine!

And damn this plot was good! I mean, oh my Star Lord! It was fast-paced, exciting, unpredictable, and awesome. I read this book in one sitting – that good! I was just so hooked and so desperate to know what would happen next! I may have seen a few plot twists coming, but there were so very many twists and turns that I was always, always hooked and on the edge of my seat. I cannot wait for the next book in the series! I need it so badly!

As for this world... Oh. My. Thor! It was so cool! The whole sci-fi edge to the paranormal aspects just blew me away. Everything felt so real – I mean, there was all kinds of science-talk, as well as mentions of scientists – all of which made these unbelievable acts of projection seem, well, believable. And man do I want to be Oculi!

Oh, how I hearted Anomaly! It was the perfect book to just sit and read (preferably in a single sitting) and then gush about afterwards. I’m recommending it to all sci-fi, paranormal and Marvel lovers out there – this is not one to miss! It’s just the most amazing, nerd-a-licious, exciting, thrilling, fun book to read and I shall be desperately waiting for my second hit of the Schrodinger’s Consortiumseries!

Star Rating:
4½ Out of 5

Read this book if you liked:

Lux by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Slide by Jill Hathaway

Unravelling by Elizabeth Norris

Fated by Sarah Alderson

The Medusa Project or Blood Ties by Sarah McKenzie

Happy Reading

Megan

* This book was received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

** Quotes used are from a proof copy and may have been changed in the finished book

Series: Skulduggery Pleasant, Book One

Publisher: HarperCollins

Format: Paperback

Published: 29^th March 2012

Number of Pages: 604

Book: Bought

Genre: Paranormal, Fantasy, Comedy, Urban Fantasy, Thriller, Suspense, Horror, Action-Adventure, Mystery, Children's, YA, Children's-YA Crossover

Recommended Age: 9+

Contains:Violence, Death, Swearing, Very Mild (And Hilarious) Sexual Innuendos

No Alcohol or Drug References

Author's Blog: Derek Landy Blogs Under Duress

Skulduggery Pleasant Site: Skulduggery Pleasant

WARNING: COULD CONTAIN SPOILERS... AND A LOT OF FANGIRLING.

YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED…

Meet Skulduggery Pleasant: detective, magician, warrior.

Oh yes, and dead.

The Death Bringer has risen. Skulduggery and Valkyrie have seven days to uncover the Necromancers’ secret before it’s too late.

The clock is ticking. Lord Vile is loose. And after this one, nothing will ever be the same again.

Review:

"On Sunday the world changes."

"On Sunday the world is saved."

"Yes," Skulduggery said, "well, we’ll see about that..."

The Death Bringer has been chosen – but it's not Valkyrie Cain (for once)... The Death Bringer, who is meant to bring about the mysterious 'Passage', which is meant to make the world better and solve death. Too good to be true? Almost certainly...

Lord Vile, the previous candidate for Death Bringer, has also returned. He's also a notorious war criminal. Not good.

And meanwhile the Sanctuary is going through massive changes, the Faceless Ones fanatics are stirring again, Tanith is missing, China's being blackmailed and Val is having some serious boyfriend troubles...

I'd forgotten about Death Bringer– forgotten, repressed, same difference... All the Skulduggery Pleasant books get progressively darker as the series goes on. But this one... it just breaks my heart every time. So very many things go so very wrong and... uh! I can't read Death Bringer without getting this horrid spasm in my heart. And yet even as these painful little twinges were happening, I was laughing my head off. Because Derek Landy has a serious gift. Hell, he has gifts plural; mad gifts. He's so gifted that his freaking gifts have gifts, and they too have gifts, and then they... You get the picture, right? My point is I adore Skulduggery Pleasant.

Skulduggery... you understand so much more about him in this book – why he is who he is, why he's like he is. And... to begin with it's a little disturbing but then... then your heart breaks in two. Oh, Skulduggery! I just want to give him a hug, even if it would be a little bit of a painful hug – you know, all the bones. He is a skeleton, after all. Ok, sorry: these jokes suck... Moving on: he's so amazing, he's so funny and he's so damaged. I lovehim.

As for Valkyrie: she annoyed me in this one. She was just... selfish. And also a little mean – poor Fletch! However, she was also badass and funny and real and good at heart. Come on: what teenager isn't a little self-involved? And also the poor girl's had a hell of a lot to deal with, especially for a sixteen-year-old. You just have to see her with Skulduggery or her uncle or her parents or her baby sister to see what a good person Val really is. I really love this girl – flaws and all.

Speaking of Fletcher Renn – break my heart! Poor poor Fletch... I really felt for China in this one too: she's done some bad stuff but she's trying to make amends. She has friends for the first time ever and she doesn't want to be alone anymore. I want to give her a hug too. And then there's Caelan... Um, he creeped me out. He was also unintentionally hilarious – with his cliché gothic proclamations of "eternal" and "burning passion". Ha! Seriously: so funny! But my fave supporting character? Val's dad: that man seriously kills me!

Once again, and as always, Landy's writing is second to none. It's not the most elegant, but it's adrenaline-fuelled, action-packed, hilarious and surprisingly emotional and deep for a MG fantasy book featuring a skeleton detective. I love Landy's writing – so, so much. And as for the plot for this one: Unpredictable. Awesome. A roller coaster. Non-stop. These are just a few of the words that pop to mind. Awesome in particular, since Derek Landy is undeniably awesome. Oh, totally twisty is another phrase – because damn! Death Bringeris just full of twists! Seriously: this book is as unpredictable as a rabid dingo on drugs! Does it get any more unpredictable than that?

To sum it up, Death Bringer was the most awesome book out of the most awesome series. I know I say that with each new book, but it's true. Death Bringer was emotional, hilarious, addictive and a perfect escape. I wish I could live in this world, with these people – even if I died or was just in the background. Because I love them all that much. Love Derek Landy and SP that much. And I really, really want you all to read this series if you haven't yet. I mean, you've been listening to me gush about this series for six books: when are you going to take my advice and read this amazing, amazing series?!

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go and reread Kingdom of the Wicked. Ciao!

Oh: P.S. This should be Derek Landy's catchphrase: "Be off with you. I have a book to write, characters to kill, and a party to plan." That is literally the most Derek Landy thing ever, even if it came out of Gordon’s mouth.

Star Rating:
5 Out of 5

Read this book if you liked:

Skulduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy

Percy Jackson by Rick Riordan

Department 19 by Will Hill

The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Happy Reading

Megan

Series: Covenant, Book One

Publisher: Spencer Hills Press/Hodder

Format: Paperback

Published: 15^th December 2011

Number of Pages: 304

Book: Bought

Genre: Paranormal, Mythology, Fantasy, Romance, Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy, Thriller, Suspense, Action-Adventure, Greek Myths, YA

Recommended Age: 14+

Contains:Violence, Death, Swearing, Alcohol, Sexual References

No Drug References

Author's Site: Jennifer L. Armentrout

Warning: This review will be an excited rambling of a fangirl.

You have been warned…

Could you kill the one you love?

The Hematoi descend from the union of gods and mortals, and the children of two Hematoi – pure-bloods – have godlike powers. Children of Hematoi and mortals – well, not so much. Half-bloods only have two options: become trained Sentinels who hunt and kill daimons or become servants in the homes of the pures.

Seventeen-year-old Alexandria would rather risk her life fighting than waste it scrubbing toilets, but she may end up slumming it anyway. There are several rules that students at the Covenant must follow. Alex has problems with them all. But especially rule #1:

Relationships between pures and halfs are forbidden.

Unfortunately, she’s crushing hard on the totally hot pure-blood Aiden. But falling for Aiden isn’t her biggest problem – staying alive long enough to graduate the Covenant and become a Sentinel is. If she fails in her duty, she faces a future worse than death or slavery: being turned into a daimon, and being hunted by Aiden.

And that would kind of suck.

Review:

“You will kill the ones you love.

Fate had been right about that...”

Once upon a time, the gods walked among humans. They had children with humans, who came to call themselves the Hematoi. The child of two Hematois are pure-bloods and have godly powers – and godly views of themselves.

The offspring of a Hematoi and a human is a half-blood. They have no powers and only two choices: to become servants for the pure-blood, with no free-will or thoughts...

Or they can become Sentinels and hunt the Hematoi who have renounced the gods and taken to stealing aether, the godly essence. Daimons.

Alexandria Andros has just returned to the Covenant after her mother took her and ran. Alex doesn't know why they left. All she knows is the one she cares about most is gone and she has to return to her kind – to the Covenant, so she can train to kill the daimons that hunt her.

Of course, her becoming a Sentinel depends on her catching up on the years she missed – and on the gorgeous pure-blood Aiden St Delphi.

The main rule when you're a half-blood is this: Never fall for a pure-blood. They're untouchable.

Unfortunately, Aiden makes sticking to that rule damn near impossible...

Once again caught up in the power plays, politics and dangers of the Covenant, Alex must find out why her mother left before the secret destroys everything. And that reason might not be the only shock that hits her, now that she's returned to her own world...

Have I mentioned how much I adore Jennifer Armentrout? Only a million times? Huh? So few? Well, I best sort that out, hadn't I? I freaking love Jennifer Armentrout. And I'm seriously peeved that I left reading Half-Blood for so long. Why? Because I freaking loved it. It was so, so amazing. It was funny, witty, so many layers of awesome, addictiveness and so very fast-paced. I read the whole book in a single sitting, completely ignoring any company we may have had (rude, but when a book's this good you just don't care) and even the chocolate that was on the table. And yes, it really was that good.

I'm gonna start my crazy ramblings with Alex. She was awesome – kickass, but also really untrained, strong as nails, but very vulnerable, funny and witty and just brilliant. I loved her in Daimon and I loved her even more in Half-Blood. I just loved all of her – how she isn't perfect, how she doesn't let the deaths destroy her but also doesn't just jump up and get over it right away. She has to fight to carry on, but she does carry on, and I love her for that. Almost as much as I love her for her snarky wit and sarcastic remarks!

And as for Aiden, our forbidden love... Oh, yummy. He is gorgeous. I didn't think I could love anyone as much as I love Daemon Black, Jennifer's other hottie, but I love Aiden almost as much. He's Daemon's complete opposite: more serious, less snarky; he has a really brilliant dry sense of humour, is all broody and worldly and protective and then there's the whole forbidden badboy thing. C'mon, you gotta love that. Plus, he's just Aiden, ok? Those grey eyes... Sigh. I love him.

And the forbidden romance, fight training and exchanges of witty remarks... Forgive me while I swoon. I just love these two together – damn all the stupid rules! They should be together! Or, failing that, Aiden can be mine. You know. Worst Case Scenario (For Alex)...

Oh, and I must mention Aiden's brother Deacon, who is equally brilliant – he absolutely kills me! He reminds me a tiny bit of Adrian Ivashkov – he's snarky, always drunk, funny and sweet. I loved him and really reallywant to see more of him!

Then there's Seth, who I can't figure out but who intrigues me. Caleb: who's so sweet and who I love. Marcus: again undecided. Lucian: I hate him (lying, smarmy, enterbadwordhere). Rachelle: My heart breaks. All of them are just so brilliant – and so awesome!

And the world... I had this whole rant in my review of Daimon where I just ramble about how this world is like Vampire Academy's world and how completely, amazingly different it is too. I mean, sure, VA has vampires and that's totally awesome. But the Covenant series? It has gods, people! Freaking Greek Gods. It's like Percy Jackson meets Vampire Academy meets Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Camp Half-Blood meets St Vlads. It is totally freaking awesome! I love the idea of daimons, of Hematoi, of half-bloods, of the Apollyon, all the legends and gods and myths. They are so freaking awesome and I would so move to this world if I could, enter the Covenant and train to be a Sentinel – under Aiden St Delphi, of course!

Ok now, I'm gonna admit this upfront: I did see some of the twists coming. One thing in particular about Alex I guessed pretty early on. But others? Um, no. And I adore Jennifer's habit of just killing people off. Not enough books do that. But if you kill my favourites (Alex, Aiden, Caleb, Deacon) I will cry. A lot. Just sayin'. The point is, the plot was awesome, twisty, action-packed and so very addictive. I rushed through it and instantly picked up Pure, which I'm a good way through even as I write this! I loved the plot to pieces, and I loved Alex's voice just as much – it was just so Alex, you know? Funny, witty, sarcastic, kinda vulnerable at times. I loved it!

Ok, sometimes this is similar to Vampire Academy– in all the best ways. But that... that isn't why I love the Covenantseries. Because it's just so much more than 'similar-to-VA'. It has its own characters, its own smouldering romances, its own kickass plots, its own I-wanna-move-in-right-now world, and it's very own addictiveness that runs through all Armentrout books. It leaves me needing more – always more – and thanking the gods that I have the next couple of books. Trust me, I’m already ordering the others!

Half-Blood has left me craving Pureand the world of the Covenant series the way daimons crave aether – i.e., I have no control and will go on a killing spree if I don't get another hit right now. Ok, I don't really think daimons kill when they don't have aether. They probably die or something... Point is: I'm stopping this crazy, rambling review right now so I can get back to Pure.

If that and freaking ignoring chocolate isn't a sign of how amazing Half-Blood is, I don't know what is. I don't think I'll threaten you again. I think I did that twice in my review of Daimon. Wait 'til Pure. I'm sure I'll be titanium-wielding and element controlling, ready to force everyone in the world to read Jennifer's books...

And on that note: Happy Reading!

Star Rating:
4½ Out of 5

Read this book if you liked:

Lux by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

Percy Jackson by Rick Riordan

Anti-Goddess by Kendare Blake

The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare

Challenges It's Taking Part In:

100 Books in a Year Reading Challenge 2013 (Hosted by Book ChickCity)

Happy Reading

Megan

Publisher: Bloomsbury

Format: ARC

Published: 1^st January 2015

Number of Pages: 464

Book: For Review*

Genre: Contemporary, Thriller, Mystery, Magical Realism, Suspense, Paranormal, Mythology, Fantasy, Action-Adventure, YA

Recommended Age: 14+

Contains:Swearing, Violence, Alcohol, Smoking, Drug and Sexual References

Author's Blog: Thus Spake Nick Lake

Blurb From Goodreads:

Shelby Jane Cooper is seventeen, pretty and quiet. It's just Shelby and her mom, Shaylene, a court stenographer who wears pyjama jeans, stitches tapestry, eats ice-cream for dinner and likes to keep Shelby safe. So safe she barely goes out. So safe she doesn't go to school. Because anything could happen, to a girl like Shelby. Anything.
When Shelby gets knocked down by a car, it's not just her leg that's broken: Shelby's world is shattered. Her mom turns up to collect her and drives off into the night, like it's the beginning of a road trip, like two criminals on the run, like Thelma and Louise or Bonnie and Clyde. And somehow, everywhere she looks, there's a coyote watching her, talking to her, telling her not to believe.
Who is Shelby Jane Cooper? If the person who keeps you safe also tells you lies, who can you trust?

Review:

“I'm going to be hit by a car in about four hours, but I don't know that yet.

The weird thing is, it's not the car that's going to kill me, that's going to erase me from the world.

It's something totally different. Something that happens eight days from now and threatens to end the world…”

Shelby Cooper's Mom has always been paranoid and over-protective. Shelby has been home-schooled, only going out once a week for batting practice and ice cream. Her Mom knows everything about her, controls everything, is always telling her to be careful, watch out for cars...

One day, Shelby isn't careful enough. A car comes onto the pavement, hits her and breaks her leg. As she lies there, she sees a coyote, who says:

"There will be two lies, it says. Then there will be the truth. And that will be hardest of all."

The moment Shelby is released from the hospital, she and her mother go on the run. They pack their car up and flee.

Shelby's Mom has been lying to Shelby all her life. Mom isn't who she claimed to be.

The world isn't what it claimed to be. Because every time Shelby closes her eyes, she leaves our world and appears in another, guided on a quest by the coyote...

“There was a time before time existed and that is called the Dreaming, and that is where we are, he says.

Oh, that clears it up, I say…”

What are the two lies? What is the truth?

And why has her whole life been a lie? Love? Fear? Survival...?

I started There Will Be Lies, just intending to read a few chapters to see what it would be like. Half an hour and a hundred pages later, I was still hooked to every word. I stayed up 'til three-freaking-o'clock to gobble up as many pages as possible before I pretty much passed out. There Will Be Lies is the kind of thriller that gets under your skin, until your desire to find out what the hell's going on becomes a burning need, so intense and so strong it can't be denied. And I must say, There Will Be Lies was like no other thriller I've read before. It was just... so unique. I've read real life-fantasy mashups before, but I think TWBLmight just be my favourite, thanks to the mystery and Native American folklore. All this made it so brilliant and so utterly addictive! It's also going to be hard to write a review for – I mean, how much can I say without giving everything away? But I'll try my best to ramble on as usual... Lucky followers.

There were really only a few characters in this book, but they were all so very interesting and unique and intriguing. I really liked Shelby – in fact, I found her intriguing! Oh, and yay for the disability diversity – and for her blasé way of telling us! But she was really brave and strong, but also lost and scared and confused. Basically, totally understandable for her character – and very likeable and relatable.

Mark... Yeah, that was weird and so interesting – as bizarre as it was brilliant, that part of the storyline... more in a minute on that. Mark: he was cryptic, mysterious, confusing – a puzzle I loved trying to crack.

Shelby's Mom... I had a few theories concerning her overprotectiveness. I found this woman, who wore pyjama jeans and was so protective and jumpy, intriguing... But I can’t say more, otherwise I might give it away…

This writing... I do like Nick Lake's writing style – his use of bizarre punctuation, his edgy voices. Shelby really came through – so strong. The voice was amazing, the prose compelling and the way of writing so different and unique. I can't really explain it – it was kind of written like a train of thoughts, a stream of consciousness: everything Shelby thought, we heard, no matter the consequences. It was honest and real and so believable. Some people might find the weird punctuation annoying or hard to read, but I rather liked it – but that's me.

I really love thrillers. I love all those big ohhh moments, the ones you discover and think that all makes SO MUCH sense now! I love it. And normally I'm actually pretty good at guessing, despite my love of twists and oh moments. But in There Will Be Lies... Sure, I guessed a few twists (one of the big ones, actually, though it was only one of my many theories – another so-called 'PLOT TWIST' was very, very obvious for me) but this storyline, thanks to the fantastical elements, was generally unpredictable and insanely exhilaratingly exciting.

The Dreaming was so bizarre and so awesome. I must say, I guessed aspects of the Dreaming plot, but the world building was brilliant - more so because we're never really sure what, exactly, the Dreaming is. If it's real, if it's a different plane, world, etc. Maybe I would have preferred some further explanation, but it all was so fascinating and really rather unique - I really enjoyed my time in the Dreaming! I’ve also only read a few books focusing on Native American folklore, and found the Coyote aspects simply brilliant.

There was something about this book, something I really can't put my finger one. It's something I've found in Nick's other books, something that keeps me awake until ridiculous hours, desperate to read on. It's some weird sort of magic, something inexplicable and powerful. I read the book as fast as humanely possible, gobbled it all up and was left both wanting more and utterly satisfied. The ending... it was perfect, kind of. There Will Be Lies was an intriguing, addictive and beautiful book, one I really enjoyed. It might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it made this reviewer very happy!

Star Rating:
4 Out of 5

Read this book if you liked:

We Were Liars by E. Lockhart

Ferryman by Claire McFall

Bone Dragon by Alexia Casale

Before I Go To Sleep by S. J. Watson

Happy Reading

Megan

* This book was received from Bloomsbury in exchange for an honest review

** Quotes used are from a proof copy and may have been changed in the finished book

Calling Holly Black and faerie fans everywhere: The Darkest Part Of The Forest is coming 5th February! It has faeries, it has knights, it has wishes, changelings, horned princes in coffins... Yeah. It's epic. And one of you lucky people will have a chance to win your very own copy - yes, an international giveaway! But more on that in a minute...

I am literally the biggest Holly Black fan in the history of ever. And therefore I was SO excited to have a chance to take part in The Darkest Part Of The Forest UK blog tour (sort of thing).

The whole focus of this tour is #bookishWISHES! There are a few wishes in DPoTF - with faeries: not always the best idea...

But here is a little blurb for you - trust me, if you're not excited yet, you're going to be...

FAERIES. KNIGHTS. PRINCES. THINK YOU KNOW HOW THE STORY GOES? THINK AGAIN...

NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author HOLLY BLACK

spins a dark, dangerous and utterly beautiful

faerie tale, guaranteed to steal your heart...

Children can have a cruel, absolute sense of justice. Children can kill a monster and feel quite proud of themselves. A girl can look at her brother and believe they’re destined to be a knight and a bard who battle evil. She can believe she’s found the thing she’s been made for.

Hazel lives with her brother, Ben, in the strange town of Fairfold where humans and fae exist side by side. The faeries’ seemingly harmless magic attracts tourists, but Hazel knows how dangerous they can be, and she knows how to stop them. Or she did, once. At the centre of it all, there is a glass coffin in the woods. It rests right on the ground and in it sleeps a boy with horns on his head and ears as pointy as knives. Hazel and Ben were both in love with him as children. The boy has slept there for generations, never waking.

Until one day, he does… As the world turns upside down and a hero is needed to save them all, Hazel tries to remember her years spent pretending to be a knight. But swept up in new love, shifting loyalties, and the fresh sting of betrayal, will it be enough?

But onto the wishin' and give-awayin'!

First up, I'm meant to make my #bookishWishes. And I am making wishes - plural. The first is a little selfish, I guess, but the second isn't. Balance is key. ;)

My First Bookish Wish:

My first wish is that 2015 is the best bookish year of my book blogging days. I wish that brilliant books are published (and I get to read them all!), that I get to meet up with my amazing blogging friends more ('cause I love you all!), that I actually have time to read everything 2015 has to offer and that, just maybe, I get to finish the book I'm writing - it's about time these characters, worlds and plots get out of my head and into the world! So that's my selfish-ish wish (though of course I wish the same for my blogging friends!)...

My Second Bookish Wish:

My second wish is less selfish: I wish that every child all over the world has at least one book to read and love. Every child should have the magic a wonderful book can give. Books save my life every single day and I just want everyone everywhere to have that.

And now for your turn!

Because it's time I go all Bookish Faerie Godmother on you guys, my lovely followers! It's time for an international giveaway of The Darkest Part Of The Forest, thanks to the very generous Indigo peoples!

Now, let me paint a picture of what you have to do... using pictures and a faerie tale theme!

Well, that was fun! But let's go over the rules once again...

First up, consider this: If you could make any bookish wish, what would you wish for? Now decide how you want to make this wish: do you want to just write it down in the comments, Tweet it, post it on Tumblr, Instagram, Facebook (use the #bookishWISHES and #DPoTF tags if you do) or email it to me? Do you want to wish it in a picture, like me? Do you want to draw your wish? Do you want to video yourself? Do you want to get creative and write a story - write your own faerie tale?

If you decide to get creative, post your special wish wherever you want and place a direct link in the comments to this post - please Tweet or email me too at @BookAddictdGirl (and the #bookishWISHES tag!) or thebookaddictedgirl@yahoo.co.uk. Whoever makes the most marvellous, creative, unique and special wish wins a copy of The Darkest Part Of The Forest!

The giveaway is INTERNATIONAL and ends midnight 11th February - the witching hour (fey-ing hour?)! I will go through all the entries and choose which is the most marvellous and deserving of the brilliant The Darkest Part Of The Forest!

But remember: if you don't post the link in the comments and Tweet/email me - you can't win! No matter how amazing your entry is!

Well, I'll leave you all, my loveliest followers, to get a-wishin'! I hope you have fun!!

---

Keep up with the wishing tomorrow, over at Serendipity Reviews!

And if you want to know more about the amazing The Darkest Part Of The Forest, check it out on Goodreads and Amazon. Follow the lovely Holly too on her website, Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook!

About HOLLY BLACK:

Holly Black is the bestselling author of YA and children's books including being co-creator of The Spiderwick Chronicles, a NEW YORK TIMES No.1 bestselling phenomenon and hugely successful film. She has been a finalist for the MYTHOPOEIC AWARD, the EISNER AWARD and a recipient of the ANDRE NORTON AWARD and a NEWBERY HONOR. She currently lives in New England in a house with a secret door.

Series: Study, Book Two

Publisher: Mira

Format: Paperback

Published: 29^th February 2012

Originally Published: October 2006

Number of Pages: 432

Book: Paperback

Genre: Fantasy, High Fantasy, Paranormal, Magic, Romance, Mystery, Suspence, Action-Adventure, YA, YA-Adult Crossover

Recommended Age: 14+

Contains:Violence, Death, Swearing, Alcohol, Sexual and Sexual Assault References

Author's Site: Maria V. Snyder

WARNING: COULD CONTAIN SPOILERS... AND FANGIRLING.

YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED…

Controlling the past.

Controlling the future.

With an execution order on her head, Yelena has no choice but to escape to Sitia, the land of her birth. With only a year to master her magic – or face death – Yelena must begin her apprenticeship and travels to the Four Towers of the Magician’s Keep.

But noting in Sitia is familiar. Not the family to whom she is a stranger. Not the unsettling new facets of her magic. Not the brother who resents her return. As she struggles to understand where she belongs and how to control her rare powers, a rogue magician emerges – and Yelena catches his eye.

Suddenly she is embroiled in battle against good and evil. And once again it will be her magical abilities that will either save her life… or be her downfall.

Review:

Yelena has had to leave her home – her kingdom – and flee to Sitia, the place of her birth but a place she knows nothing about. In Sitia, she will train her powers – must train and control them, or else be put to death in one year’s time. And so she goes to the Four Towers of the Magician's Keep, a place where magic is taught to those like her.

In Sitia she is also reunited with the family she was taken from so long ago. They are all strangers to her but are welcoming – loving. All except for her brother, Leif, who seems to hate her.

Caught up in struggles that are political, magical and emotional, Yelena is already dealing with a lot. The emergence of a powerful magician, targeting young girls, just creates more mayhem.

Of course, Yelena gets involved in the investigation. With magic as powerful as hers, she will either flourish here amongst those like her, or... she will perish...

I finished Poison Study and then instantly cursed myself – quite creatively too – in my head for not buying the rest of the damn books at the same time. So I ordered the second two in the Yelena Zaltana series on Amazon, vowing that if they didn't get here soon I would just buy them again on my Kindle. I was so excited when I saw a book saying: 'A Yelena Zaltana Novel' on the bottom. And then I cursed again – even more creatively – when I realised it was the third book not the second!! Magic Study did arrive the next day but it was still too long! I dived right in the moment it landed on my doorstep!

Now, I have this habit of writing down quotes as I go through a book. It's a habit I should really stop because it means that when I read a book with loads of quotes I love I end up writing down half the blinking book. I don't even really know why I do it... I think in case I want to use them in the review or make a picture quote of the book... But Magic Study... Well, it was one of those books that was just too good to stop! I literally could not stop. It was that good. Sure, it wasn't quite as good as Poison Study, but there really wasn't much in it.

I really loved how Yelena grew in this book: she was so much stronger and such a good person, better than before. She'd really come into her own as both a woman and a magician. Of course, she still has the pesky habit of rushing in without thinking – generally with bad results – but she's growing stronger too. She's able to kick some butt and she uses her family and friends' help when she needs it. Do I wish she'd trust the Council and Irys more? Yes. But I also got her reasons for not trusting them. Yelena isn't perfect and I think that's why I like her so much: she's tough as nails, but flawed and vulnerable too.

I missed Valek all the time he wasn't there and then felt my heart do a little flutter every time he reappeared, often in some bizarre disguise. Valek is sweet and hard, protective and trusting of Yelena's ability. He lets her do her thing, but he's always there for her too. Why I love Valek in one sentence?

"I'll be close by if you need me, love."

I also love this little scene between Yelena and Valek, where Yelena is nervous and Valek is... Valek:

"This is dangerous."

"I knew falling for you was dangerous, love."

Yeah. I melt every time he says 'love'. I think it's leftover from my Spike-addicted days. I always did have a thing for the bad boys...

Now, my favourite characters in the previous book, Yelena and Valek aside, were Ari and Janco. You guys can't even begin to fathom how pleased I was when the two of them popped up again! But we were also introduced to a whole range of new, brilliant, evil and sometimes bizarre characters. I really liked Irys – she was a really awesome teacher. The Zaltana clan were brilliant – and so bonkers! Leif intrigued me and I'm so excited to see more of him. Moon Man was brilliant; gotta love the cryptic ones! Dax provided comic relief in the Janco-less times. And then there was Cahil... who I did not like. At all.

But I think my favourite character in Magic Study just had to be Kiki. Now who's Kiki, you may wonder. Well, Kiki was Yelena's horse. Weird favourite character, right? Not if you've read this book.

I adored the world building in Poison Study. My love only grew as I read Magic Study. Because now there wasn't just Ixia, but Sitia too! A land of magic and clans, a land (for the most part) without poison and secret spying. The cultures of the different clans intrigued me, as did the differences between the two lands of Ixia and Sitia.

Maria Snyder's writing and plotting were pure genius – as always. The writing was beautiful and hooking and not too heavy. The plot was addictive and just the right pace (fast and exciting but not neglecting world building). I loved how it built all the time, with plenty of action, and came to an impressive conclusion. I was a bit exasperated that Yelena has yet to learn the advantages of patience and assistance, but she's pretty badass, so it was all cool. And I also liked the way Maria dealt with sex in the book. Yeah, this bit is random, but I need to mention it. Maria didn't just ignore the fact that Yelena's a girl in love with a bad-boy boyfriend (heart mate) who called her 'love'. There was no lengthy description, almost no mention of S-E-X at all, but you knew what was about to happen. I think it's a good way to deal with sex: let us know it's happening, it's natural, but not with all the... graphic details.

I adored Poison Study and it really was one hell of an act to follow. Magic Study fell a little short, probably due to the only intermittent appearances of my three fave boys, but it kept me hooked and just as invested. The world building was epic, the action addictive and the characters believable. It also had the best horse in the history of the world – of any world, even.

I love Maria V. Snyder and, of course, she didn't disappoint with Magic Study. It was a worthy sequel to one of my favourite magic books. I can't wait to continue with the series – with Fire Study and Shadow Study! Eek! I don't have to leave Yelena and Valek! Yelek? Valena? Someone needs to come up with a shipping name! I would, but I'm too busy grabbing my copy of Fire Study!

Star Rating:
4½ Out of 5

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Happy Reading

Megan

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Magic Study by Maria V. Snyder