tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31963778941231933522024-03-05T09:47:33.198+01:00To read or not by EricaBook & Review BlogEricahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.comBlogger150125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-32065619741116303822017-11-08T12:00:00.000+01:002017-11-08T12:00:07.278+01:00Focus<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">A very long time ago, I read this first in a series. I remember being so in love with this book and its cover that I also bought the second book to it already. In my review about the first book, I remember ending with something along the line of "I also read the second book already and am going to write the review right now". Hmm... I wonder where that review is <i>now</i>? For my birthday I got the third and fourth book in this series and I wanted to fresh up my thoughts by reading both reviews of book one and two, now I found the review of book one. I <i>never </i>found the review of book two... So I decided to reread this second book and bring the review after all: <b><span style="color: #990000;">Focus by Alyssa Rose Ivy</span></b>.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>WARNING </b>For the ones here that haven't read the first in this series, I recommend you </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">not </i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">to read on since there will be further developments to the characters and to the plot. This will create a less pleasant read of <i>Focus </i></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">because you know more information than you already should. Therefore, I recommend you </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">not </i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">to read the review of <i>Focus </i>but to read the review about the first in the series: <i><a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2015/12/flight.html">Flight</a></i></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Just clicking on the title will open a new page with the review on the first book.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOtNQU8PdZfEX1zuHHtJwL8IH12z36sZEG6krJT2JgdM4u9FRmEgY0gdXaJfbD61MWgMkKJQHKbxqNGvoyoONaS2rl1Z9iWljPzttqkLFcZEeVErKRPB07bdJwjrgFZPAe2UoQHwTxH3ub/s1600/IMG_8681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOtNQU8PdZfEX1zuHHtJwL8IH12z36sZEG6krJT2JgdM4u9FRmEgY0gdXaJfbD61MWgMkKJQHKbxqNGvoyoONaS2rl1Z9iWljPzttqkLFcZEeVErKRPB07bdJwjrgFZPAe2UoQHwTxH3ub/s320/IMG_8681.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="background-color: white;">Being a future wife of a secret society you know nothing about is hard. Having to work for college next to that is near impossible.</span></b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Allie finally starts her college years, but things have never seemed so hard than anything before. Being a fiancee to some creature and not knowing taking his ring would mean she was going to marry was something she never saw coming. It's one thing to be engaged, but it's a whole other when being engaged to the prince of the Society brings danger into her life. Already being kidnapped once, the odds do not seem to be in Allie's favour. Above that Levi is trying to win her trust back after the ring incident. Realizing the danger she's in and her feelings for Levi, Allie knows it's too late to turn back. </b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">This book. YES! I didn't remember a lot of it anymore so it's a great thing that I decided to reread this book and hell did I enjoy it! Let's start with the characters.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">First of all there is Allie, her determination in <i>Focus </i>is unbelievably fascinating. In book one she was already recovering from a broken heart, now being engaged to someone without knowing she was going to be engaged is a whole new thing. Yet this is also something where we'll see that her heart is broken over. Her feelings for Levi were pretty clear in the first book and being deceived like this is something she never imagined. Her determination however to keep him at a distance and making him work for it is something I really admired with this character. She still knows how she feels, however we also really see the indecision in her personality. She loves him but knowing what he did, him lying to her and keeping her out of loop of who he is and what his intentions were with the ring really crushed her. </span><span style="background-color: white;">This character will therefore be a very strong female character that's willing to be independent and making the guy work for it. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">I really enjoyed seeing how Allie was growing as a character and how she was so determined. We'll also really see how her feelings evolve through the story, especially once this whole situation makes sure she needs to go to events all the time and will have to leave school constantly. Her will to study is very big and seeing that she's now obligated to go to events of the Society with the man that deceived her but who she still has feelings for will therefore bring many problems and mixed feelings. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Lastly about this character, we'll really see how she acts under pressure. Pretending to be Levi's mate will is one thing where we'll really see this character grow into the person she is at the end of the book, as well as her indecision of her feelings. Yet being the prince's mate will also cause her to be in danger. I enjoyed seeing how this character was while being under pressure once again. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As for Levi, if there's one thing I really noticed is how sex <i>obsessed </i>he is. That was something I wished I saw less in him because the Levi who is sweet and caring also gets a place in this story and I just adored it. Levi is known for his cockiness and arrogance and overall I don't mind it that much, add the sex obsessed side to it and it begins to be doubtful if I like him that much.</span></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA59tfx0sVzYQ9_4yFGnhlwgwBcVM67E61Eo6vAalmU7xR1U8lJj9osngeO9H_UgdMlebbTLuHKxK2h1HKYx58gqF6zkyf6bOtBDhbSA8pvo_lv8HbqycH8KHAVznuULSb8t6fPtrDaCWx/s1600/IMG_8724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA59tfx0sVzYQ9_4yFGnhlwgwBcVM67E61Eo6vAalmU7xR1U8lJj9osngeO9H_UgdMlebbTLuHKxK2h1HKYx58gqF6zkyf6bOtBDhbSA8pvo_lv8HbqycH8KHAVznuULSb8t6fPtrDaCWx/s320/IMG_8724.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But as I mentioned before we do get to see a sweeter side of him. One where he isn't that arrogant and to be very honest this side of him... it's so swoon-worthy! And this also effects our other main character which makes sure there's a certain dynamic that's absolutely outstanding! One side that's also really enjoyable to see in Levi is his jealousy because he gets jealous over the littlest things. It gets funny after a while! </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Overall these two will have a rough ride during the book. Especially because Allie is feeling very mixed about Levi and Levi still sees her as his. He sometimes is a little over-possessive which will bring heated moments between these two which readers will find very understandable. The thing between these two is that they do know how to give and take, both will sacrifice things for each other which made this relationship very balanced and readers will really want them to be in a relationship. They're just yin and yang! If these two will end up together is still the question...</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for the plot, I remember speaking of a very high pace in <i>Flight</i>. Here I felt like the pace was already lowered but still very fast. Especially when the danger is there. This book will really focus on Allie being Levi's mate, and him being the prince of this mysterious creatures world also means that he has enemies. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">These enemies will be after Allie to harm Levi. Whenever there was this danger or threat I felt like it was dealt with rather soon, which is a little disappointing if you ask me. The author could have gone crazy with it and really opened up this story to more of it if you ask me. The danger really works well with the overall theme of a protector, here being Levi, and the person who doesn't want to be dependent on the person who brought this crazy world in the first place, Allie. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Other than the danger and the faster pace with it, the rest of the plot was highly enjoyable. Readers are going to be tortured! And I mean that in two ways. One kind of torture because you want these two to be together. The plot really makes room and time for Allie to gets things in order and to find out what she feels after the whole engagement disaster. Meanwhile we also see how Levi is working to earn her trust back and to make her fall in love with him once more. It really brings all sorts of situations which leads to my second way of torture.</span></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOtNQU8PdZfEX1zuHHtJwL8IH12z36sZEG6krJT2JgdM4u9FRmEgY0gdXaJfbD61MWgMkKJQHKbxqNGvoyoONaS2rl1Z9iWljPzttqkLFcZEeVErKRPB07bdJwjrgFZPAe2UoQHwTxH3ub/s1600/IMG_8681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"></span></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;">The whole Levi being overprotective and Allie being so independent and determined to get him at a distance, will cause situations where Levi was one step ahead and blocked all guys for her. Making them know that she's with him and they need to stay away. This causes that all the guys stay away from Allie, including them staying away from her friends! Which then again causes fights that are just hilarious to live through because we know the meaning behind them. The feels are just all over the place! I absolutely loved how these two characters are and how they work together making this read funny and light. Add in some more information about the Society and the new creatures, the danger and the hierarchy and you come to a story that's amazing to read and has everything to enjoy it!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLdpcByFbFscPNtqzQYWYSUjUvloLDbuiVTtJBdA0E83RcjMJYoFNRDT4yscoMWU7rhDXv6luQE2MYY9_DLFoGajefwlFmVRv44C7sqtDexpPdxZ1Rj49VZZqU-CbR8lmsiCermTi-jyUr/s1600/IMG_8723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLdpcByFbFscPNtqzQYWYSUjUvloLDbuiVTtJBdA0E83RcjMJYoFNRDT4yscoMWU7rhDXv6luQE2MYY9_DLFoGajefwlFmVRv44C7sqtDexpPdxZ1Rj49VZZqU-CbR8lmsiCermTi-jyUr/s320/IMG_8723.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Concluding this I can say that I absolutely adore this book! The characters are just to die for, both having such strong personalities really brings some sparks into this story. Also the whole disaster that happened in <i>Flight </i>brings that these two have a lot to work out. With Allie being distant and very independent and Levi being very protective and wanting her back, these two bring encounters that are really enjoyable and funny to read. Add some danger into this all and you're in for a great story. My only remark is that the author could've extended the danger a lot more and if the pace wasn't as fast, we could've enjoyed it a lot more and feel the suspense. Overall, I absolutely think this book is swoon-worthy and over the top feelings that will leave the readers with a tortured heart that skips a beat. I can't wait for the next book! </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">"Relationships aren't a democracy. Not everyone gets an equal vote."</span></span><br />
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<br />Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0New Orleans, Louisiana, Verenigde Staten29.951065799999991 -90.071532329.511172299999991 -90.7169793 30.390959299999992 -89.4260853tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-25736556622742206452017-11-01T12:00:00.000+01:002017-11-01T12:00:08.956+01:00Eclipse | Audiobook<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Ha! Here I am with a book of a series I swore I'd never ever read. Technically I didn't read it because I'm listening to the series through Audiobooks. I'm already three books in the series and the end is nearing. My love for the books is very double as I enjoyed the second book better than the first, but now I've listened to the third book and I'm left doubting once again if this series is really something for me. I am really looking forward to the fourth and last book though because I loved the movie and how the plot changed there! We'll see... First off, the review about the third book: <b><span style="color: #990000;">Eclipse by Stephanie Meyer</span></b>.</span><br />
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<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41HZnxOQggL._SX328_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Afbeeldingsresultaat voor eclipse stephenie meyer" border="0" height="320" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41HZnxOQggL._SX328_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="211" /></a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>WARNING </b>For the ones here that haven't read the first in this series, I recommend you </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">not </i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">to read on since there will be further developments to the characters and to the plot. This will create a less pleasant read of <i>Eclipse </i></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">because you know more information than you already should. Therefore, I recommend you </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">not </i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">to read the review of <i>Eclipse </i>but to read the review about the first in the series: <i><a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2017/03/twilight.html">Twilight</a></i></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">. If you're interested in the second book, <i><a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2017/06/new-moon.html">New Moon</a></i>, I also wrote a review about that book. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Just clicking on the title will open a new page with the review on the first book.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>A new threat hovers over the Cullens when new vampires are being created. One vampire turning innocent humans and making them creatures everyone will fear. </b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>New borns are ripping through Seattle, taking more lives all for one cause: getting to Bella. Once again Bella finds herself in danger of someone who desperately wants revenge. And revenge she'll get. Above that, Bella also finds herself torn between two guys and she'll have to pick one eventually. While also knowing that her choice might ignite struggles between the creatures, she finds herself in a hard situation. And if that isn't enough, her choice about life or death still must be made...</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As I have previously mentioned I am really doubting about how much I liked this book and all of that is really caused because of the characters...</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Even though Bella still is one of my favorites and still showed me sides of her we saw in <i>New Moon</i>, I have to say that there was also a less pleasant side coming. This time around she really behaves weird when anything bad happens. Any time there is something bad going on, and nobody blames her, she wants people to blame her. At some point I understood why she felt that way and wanted people to blame her. I could relate to why she was thinking it and also saw in her perspective why she'd think it was her fault. In other situations I really wished she wouldn't be asking them to blame her. Often it came off like a little dramatic and even slightly annoying. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Nevertheless did I still really love Bella a lot. She still shows strength and wants to be part of everything. She's not the girl that goes hiding when something bad is going on or when danger is seeking her. If there's something up, she wants to know and she wants to fight too. I really adore that in Bella because it makes her a strong character that doesn't come off as too girly to be touched. Another aspect that I really enjoyed while reading in Bella's head was the fact that she needs to make choices. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Not only about her life, but also about the two guys that mean a lot in her life. Her indecision and many thoughts about them were very intriguing and also relatable. By now we've seen both Edward and Jacob and we know how they act, so every pro and contra she said about them made sense. The heartache that comes with it is also I could very easily understand and live through. It was a strong sentiment but not one that was dramatic or unnecessary. Overall I really enjoyed Bella, but at some times she just was a little annoying.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Now as for the guys, I got more opinions right there. Beginning with an overall comment: how immature are they?! <i>Eclipse </i>really showed me how both of them are in some ways so childish. They're making this some sort of game to get to Bella and win her over. Of course I get they both want her and both their feelings were really genuine, however the way they acted or were playing the game were very immature and really annoying.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Edward did seem to control it better, which might be done with premeditation by the author because he's been with Bella since book one. In any way, Edward has always been collected and known for his rules and behavior. He knows when enough if enough and how to keep neutral. Yet in some situation during <i>Eclipse</i>, I found him being dishonest and very immature for his overall personality. Of course he's only trying to keep Bella because he loves her and is with her, but his behavior often hurt her and I thought he never wanted to hurt her. If we compare him to Jacob though I did notice that Edward was just more mild and understanding toward Bella's situation and her feelings for either boys. He also really tried to be patient, understanding and to keep his comments for himself which I really appreciated in this character.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">If we look at Jacob though we really notice how immature he is this time around. He really pressures Bella into things and uses manipulation, or at least that's how it felt for me. I did really love how Bella was able to stand up to him and put him in line, however at some points in the story Jacob just really did a great job in persuading her. I just wish we saw more of the outgoing and sweet guy we met in <i>New Moon</i>. Of course there are scenes where Jacob is like that, but overall I just did not enjoy him because of his immature behavior.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiReuUXTRzDyXZ8iUq8n6I6Lmr8-2h1hgyms_7KeCaLBYJqA_z3YCNVO1qutO3UPQrgiEtXBJyzQKc8rM-g6cGIOoW1o8vC_cvbiPIP6PmgPervgQtDl79LsfncF25B_q-P6t8jktQV3qQX/s1600/IMG_8708.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiReuUXTRzDyXZ8iUq8n6I6Lmr8-2h1hgyms_7KeCaLBYJqA_z3YCNVO1qutO3UPQrgiEtXBJyzQKc8rM-g6cGIOoW1o8vC_cvbiPIP6PmgPervgQtDl79LsfncF25B_q-P6t8jktQV3qQX/s320/IMG_8708.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">That said for the characters, the plot wasn't too bad. I did enjoy it but not enough to say that this book was absolutely spectacular. I did however really love the descriptions in this book. If I can compare this to the movie, we really see how it's enrolling through TV or we really see how some are fighting. This time it wasn't that easy because we are in one person's mind. We couldn't be in all different places, this is where the author will make use of the vampire's abilities which is a very amazing thing I have 'witnessed' in this book. We always knew about their abilities but now we really saw them in action, which caused very detailed descriptions so we could form the scene in our head. I really found that magnificent. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Speaking of the vampire's their abilities, the author also took time to give us an image of how certain Cullens became vampires. I really love to go back in the past and get their experiences, to me that just really adds to the story. These past events also have impact on Bella who is struggling with the decision of wanting to change or not. So these stories also came with a purpose and that adds to the story. Overall knowing how some of them changed was just a nice break from the immature behavior of both Edward and Jacob, but also was nice because it made us get to know certain characters better. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Next is the fact that the plot really makes time for Bella to have time with both guys. This of course ends in their hideous game where Bella will suffer more than I can count. This was a part I wished to have seen very different, especially if it meant Edward and Jacob would be functioning normal. I don't say that them fighting for her isn't thrilling, because it does bring so much more feelings and makes the reader pick a side as well. It's just the way they were acting that really annoyed me. If this was different, it might have changed my opinion on the entire book.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Lastly there is of course the threat of the new borns and one revenge seeking vampire. Overall I really loved how this went because once again the abilities of the vampires were used so we could see the tension and the fighting, while still being in one person's head. I also really enjoyed how this brought groups of people together and how this also made sure that some characters we've seen before are coming back... I don't want to spill too much about this because this is a big chunk of the book and also is very important for the development of the story. I can say that this was a part i absolutely adored because there was a lot of mystery and playing with the abilities which are just turning this plot into something worth raving over!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">To complete this review I can say that I'm feeling very indecisive to if I liked the book or not. Most of it really is caused because of the characters that often annoyed me with their behavior. Especially the guys, Edward and Jacob, knew how to annoy me and really not enjoy the book by their immature behavior. I do like the fact that they want to fight for the person they love, however the way they did it was often through manipulation which then hurt Bella. I absolutely hated the fact that they were so childish and so far apart from their normal personality which I absolutely adore. Even though this really annoyed me, I'm also very impressed by how the author made us be at two places a time while being in one person's head. This was through many abilities of the vampires and I really loved to see that in action! Their abilities really gave magnificent descriptions so we could enjoy this story a lot more. Lastly, the whole idea of new borns out to kill one person made it thrilling and worth listening further to the audiobook. Not only did they bring mystery, they also played with the abilities of the vampires in an amazing way and brought certain people together! If I like this book is still a big question, however I am looking forward to the next book in the series! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #990000; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“I am Switzerland. I refuse to be affected by territorial disputes between mythical creatures.” </span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Forks, Washington 98331, Verenigde Staten47.950355 -124.385486747.907817 -124.4661677 47.992893 -124.3048057tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-15061258002355196312017-10-04T12:00:00.000+02:002017-10-04T12:00:01.011+02:00Ceaseless<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I can't believe I'm here with another review about a last in a series. It seems to me that I'm ending a lot of them on a short time. This time it's the end of a series that's been on my<i> to be read-list</i> forever. By now you all know how long it was on that shelf and how hard it was for me to get them into my possession. Even though the first book did disappoint me, the rest of the series really surprised me and made me swoon! Another last in a series: <b><span style="color: #990000;">Ceaseless by Abbi Glines</span></b>.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixzjNvXVA2wqFiImIfb_hWvAWcvsSS-oJ5liZSlb6Ia97zTZGIpWAmP3s8njAVQhd1G87vCur7VqiLru5Zsrz9YMIYJuzEsijVj6W9yUGZZBA7MiVANdjUXC0YgHbGPirVwGOiEbOts8tG/s1600/ceaseless.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="597" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixzjNvXVA2wqFiImIfb_hWvAWcvsSS-oJ5liZSlb6Ia97zTZGIpWAmP3s8njAVQhd1G87vCur7VqiLru5Zsrz9YMIYJuzEsijVj6W9yUGZZBA7MiVANdjUXC0YgHbGPirVwGOiEbOts8tG/s320/ceaseless.png" width="320" /></a> <span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>WARNING </b>For the ones here that haven't read the first in this series, I recommend you </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">not </i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">to read on since there will be further developments to the characters and to the plot. This will create a less pleasant read of <i>Ceaseless </i></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">because you know more information than you already should. Therefore, I recommend you </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">not </i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">to read the review of <i>Ceaseless </i>but to read the review about the first in the series: <i><a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2017/05/existence.html">Existence</a></i></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">. If you're interested in the second book, <i>Predestined</i>, I also wrote a review about that book. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Just clicking on the title will open a new page with the review on the first book.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Meeting death and fighting Voodoo spirits was nothing compared to what Pagan will have to go through now. Pagan lost all the memories of her time with Dank Walker, not remembering who he is or why she fell in love with him. Dank is left miserable, watching Pagan act as if her life hasn't changed at all. He has never felt so alone as he does now. As if feeling this isn't enough, Pagan's real soulmate is back, trying to get her attention. They complete each other's destiny and are meant to be. Knowing this Dank only has one mission left: make Pagan choose him over her soulmate. If he can make her fall again for him and make her pick him, he'll get to keep her once again. The only question is, who will Pagan pick: Death or her soulmate?</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Dear book gods this is one heck of a ride! I absolutely enjoyed this book so much. Especially because of the plot, but let's first talk about the character's a bit. Starting with Dank this time because <i>holy alien babies everywhere</i> I adore him! Especially in <i>Ceaseless </i>we'll see the fight and insecurities of Dankmar and how can we not love this? The last two books really show off how Death is Death and everyone fears him and how strong he is and protective. Now he has lost something he loves and it brings out all the insecurities he has. This time he's on his knees to whatever power made this happen and Death isn't as terrifying anymore. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This is once again another side of Dank that we get to see and really deepens his character even in book 3! Even though he's having a lot of insecurities, we'll also see how far he's willing to go to fight for who he loves. It's absolutely a nice twist to his character to see how he is terrified of something and has to work harder to get to something. The last two books really concentrated on Dank being Death and how he's indestructible and this time there might be something to get him on his knees, defeated. How his character evolves and how he'll suffer and work with his insecurities is amazingly written. However I absolutely loved the fight he gave during this book and how much effort he did. It really shows us who we fell in love with in <i>Existence </i>and who we absolutely can't resist. A very swoon-worthy character that has deepened through the trilogy: from being Death to being a guy who isn't terrifying at all. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for our lovely Pagan, this is so strange. Her character still is the same, however we see so many changes. For one there's a change with her ability (I can't tell more because spoilers!) and two <i>hello</i>, she lost her memories! I can't believe this is actually happening. However her memory loss won't affect her personality at all and I really loved that. Pagan still is the person who shows strength and will step up when she needs to. This time her heart is the focus and her head really messes with her, which brings encounters where she's feeling a little lost and lonely like Dank is feeling. I absolutely adored to see how this character will choose a path to follow without realizing what's at stake, but at the same time she doesn't know what she'll be losing or missing so why should she realize it. This character has always showed the best of herself and even now, with her memory loss it doesn't change. Still, she'll be up for quiet the challenge without even knowing it. I want to tell so much more about this character but feel like I can't because the littlest thing might spoil things. So forgive me for my little paragraph about Pagan, but hey you'll have a better read because of it! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Now the plot! I really enjoyed this book because of the plot, although I have a few remarks. First off, I have to say the book really starts abruptly. There's no indication that something has happened to Pagan and the readers will have to find out that she's suffering from memory loss. I think that was something that I enjoyed less. You just fell into the book and was left without any information to what, who, where and why. I think I would have enjoyed the beginning of the book better if there was more information on it or if the book started with Dank who explained things.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I do have to admit that not knowing why she's suffering from this memory loss is very mysterious and also adds to readers their curiosity. That is something that I see as a very positive element of the story. It's only as you read further that things are told and explain why this happened and I loved that Abbi Glines made us guess to what must have happened to Pagan. However I <i>still </i>wished that we knew why this happened in the first place. Therefore I can conclude that the memory loss is a bit double: I wished there was more of an prologue to it so we were lead into the new story better instead of having to find out ourselves. Then again the mystery that comes with it is absolutely fantastic and highly enjoyable.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Another aspect that I love in this book is the fact that Pagan is going to be in a conflict: her soulmate or death? Our main character doesn't know that the one person is her soulmate and that the other is Death. To her those are just two guys, both fighting for her attention. Then add the jealousy of Dank Walker, his effort and his miserable behavior and you're in for a ride full of emotions but also swoon-worthy moments. I really love how for the last book there is this conflict and we'll really see who's meant to be. It was very thrilling and yet emotional to see all of this turn out the way it did. If anything this part of the story also really gives us the feels we've all been waiting on.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Another and last remark I want to point out is that I wish <i>Ceaseless </i>incorporated more of the past two books. I feel like this is important because it really makes the characters who they are in the next book in a series. Although a little part of the Voodoo Spirit came back, I didn't think it was nearly enough to get full closure on <i>Predestined </i>in <i>Ceaseless</i>. This story more felt like a one-book-story and not as if it fit into a series. I think if more elements of <i>Existence </i>and <i>Predestined </i>were incorporated more and this story had more of a prologue that connected with elements from past books, this would have been even better. I'm not saying that it isn't a good plotline because of it, because the whole idea of Death losing what he finally got back is really intriguing and something I had never expected in a last book of a series.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">One thing I did see incorporated and loved is the fact that there have been certain changes with Pagan and the Pagan we saw in the first book. This also provides us answers that connects all three books which also brings this series to a wonderful end. Speaking of the end... I was surprised with how things ended due to the surprising element I had never thought would be told. I know it's pretty vague, but once you read it you'll remember what I said here!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYi0Dzv89dhNhynaYKjHX20wO3apk2uKIXkPeKieAuTAYkxmzyj-32bPDmWJHu2twZGT_f9zaucYWqEXkksq0havXA__u0VnCUMNMqal7oc_H1H__C-qB_3-KDNswtPWawBJprbYyud1-/s1600/IMG_8677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYi0Dzv89dhNhynaYKjHX20wO3apk2uKIXkPeKieAuTAYkxmzyj-32bPDmWJHu2twZGT_f9zaucYWqEXkksq0havXA__u0VnCUMNMqal7oc_H1H__C-qB_3-KDNswtPWawBJprbYyud1-/s320/IMG_8677.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">To complete this review all I want to say is: this was amazing! I have to say I'm so relieved I read this series after all, because damn I would have missed out. Even though I feel like this one might be a little bit more corny than the others, I absolutely adored it. The characters once again will have to suffer through things that this time around isn't as easy as a Voodoo Spirit. Talking about Voodoo Spirits I am a little disappointed that the book didn't reopen that part. I feel like Ceaseless is a total new story where the last two books aren't processed in too much... which I think is a little silly because they are supposed to be the past that made the characters who they are now. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Another remark I have concerning this book is that the beginning was very abrupt. You really fell into the story and had to find out for yourself what the heck was going on, while it was already unrolling in front of us. However this also made sure that the intensity of mystery was very high in the book. So it's a double feeling! Once we do know what's going on though, we're in for a swoon story with so many feelings it was hard not to get addicted to it. A very special twist to the overall story, I had never expected for the last book to go as it went. The problem that's sketched is very unique in my opinion and played out very well! A successful last book in a series.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">“What if she never remembers?"</span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Verenigde Staten37.09024 -95.712891000000013-36.4162205 99.052733999999987 90 69.521483999999987tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-33668621552769216192017-09-27T12:00:00.000+02:002017-09-27T12:00:04.687+02:00Ascend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The time has come to end yet another series! I still remember the first time I had the first book in my hands... I saw it and it was mine. And here we are, to the third and last book in this series that has surprised me and took me on a great adventure. It's always sad to close a series, however I am absolutely happy that I picked this one up. The only thing I can already say though is that this was totally different from what I had expected to happen and it did disappoint me in the beginning. But I have come to terms with it and I am absolutely in love with <b><span style="color: #990000;">Ascend by Amanda Hocking</span></b>.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>WARNING </b>For the ones here that haven't read the first in this series, I recommend you </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">not </i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">to read on since there will be further developments to the characters and to the plot. This will create a less pleasant read of <i>Ascend </i></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">because you know more information than you already should. Therefore, I recommend you </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">not </i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">to read the review of <i>Ascend </i>but to read the review about the first in the series: <i><a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2016/01/switched.html">Switched</a></i></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">. If you're interested in the second book, <i><a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2016/12/torn.html">Torn</a></i>, I also wrote a review about that book. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Just clicking on the title will open a new page with the review on the first book.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrL9F3MoFf-THKn0vCyobyYt7mGVM4zO6eeIhC8VLqDIFlXTXAylWLNvKYqDydF2o8jqpelbybjh2G7pcpW060o1rahNu0gGPZSbYQyIXM-hlDmHgH_a8Jy0TClzouBseLza1e5OleFDS_/s1600/IMG_8529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrL9F3MoFf-THKn0vCyobyYt7mGVM4zO6eeIhC8VLqDIFlXTXAylWLNvKYqDydF2o8jqpelbybjh2G7pcpW060o1rahNu0gGPZSbYQyIXM-hlDmHgH_a8Jy0TClzouBseLza1e5OleFDS_/s320/IMG_8529.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>The weight of the world is on Wendy's shoulders. After realizing that only she can safe the kingdom by sacrificing herself, Wendy is up for a great task. Above that not everyone in the kingdom stands behind her, which results in many disputes where Wendy can't defend herself. Only learning to be a future queen, she's has save the kingdom and wants to save everyone she loves. The treat of the Vittra is suffocating them all, but how does she get people to trust her and to fight this battle with her when all they do is ignore her and not see her as their future queen? </b></span></div>
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<b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">If that isn't enough yet, Wendy also struggles with her feelings for both Finn and Loki while being married to Tove. It's time for her to finally pick someone, but her fear of losing either one of them is too hard to bear. Next to losing one of her loved ones, her mother isn't doing well either. Wendy finds herself on an emotional roller coaster while training to be the future queen and saving her kingdom. Will she be able to stand or will she fall under the weight? </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The ultimate question remains: will she'll be able to save everyone? </span></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">With this series coming to an end, I have to say I'm absolutely happy with our main character Wendy. Over the course of 3 books, we really saw her grow. From first being someone totally different from who she thought she was to now being on her way to become the queen of the kingdom, I have to say this character has never ever disappointed me.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">If there's one thing I can say it's that it's amazing to see her make this progress over a longer course. It just adds to the realistic side of the character. Everything takes time, and her becoming the woman she was destined to be was something that takes time. Amanda Hocking therefore did a great thing from making this doubting character into a strong, independent one. It might have taken us 3 books to finally see her being ready or close to ready, but the end result in the last book is fantastic.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">If there's one thing I admired in this character it's her courage. Wendy has this hard task on her shoulders: rescuing the kingdom from the Vittra treat. By now we all know what's going on and what the history is between both Trylle and Vittra (Bonus: we'll get a few more answers during <i>Ascend</i>!) and know what role Wendy plays in this part. The fact that she's also in the process of becoming the future leader of the kingdom makes sure that she'll have a great challenge. The courage and strength this character shows therefore is very admirable. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">And strength she'll need. The people in the kingdom are having a hard time with standing beside her and agreeing to whatever she proposes. This creates an even more difficult situation for Wendy. It might be the last book, but if all it really gives our main character one last chance to prove herself. And prove the readers that she really is in fact this amazing, strong, independent woman that grew over the course of this series.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Above that Wendy is struggling with a few problems of her own. Being the last book of the series, we'll have to get answers on that. Once again this character shows how strong she is by leading and trying to figure out where her heart is really at. This will of course make sure that a lot of feelings will be directed to the readers and makes it easier to connect with the character. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">If I can say anything about all the characters in general it's that I absolutely think the author did a fantastic job with writing them. Each and every character has its individual characteristics, strengths and weaknesses that made sure we got a very varied range of characters. Each of them really added to the story and influenced it so that we came to this one coherent story that really takes us on an adventure. Above that I'm amazed by how well each of the grew and changed, some taking a different path than readers might have expected. Amanda Hocking really writes beautiful characters that still surprise!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">For the plot I have to admit that I was stunned by it. We all know that Wendy is having some personal trouble and I had expected that that would really take up the plot as a whole. However that really wasn't the case at all. Of course we'll get a close-up on these problems as they'll still be of major importance for our character's personality and for the readers (because we want answers!). Yet I did notice that the story really concentrates on Wendy becoming the woman that she needs to become to save everyone.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We know that she's still learning to be this future queen and Amanda Hocking really took us onto the trip where we saw her grow in this individual, strong person. She's totally transforming in front of us by making us live through moments of her reigning. With her mother being really ill, it's therefore logical that Wendy takes her spot for now. This learning process will be added with making us sit through meetings and moments where fights have happened and the kingdom needs to make a statement or visit the surviving. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">I feel like the author really took time to set apart all the responsibilities Wendy will have to carry to </span><span style="background-color: white;">amplify </span><span style="background-color: white;">the weight on her shoulders, as well as really <i>show </i>us, through the plot, how she becomes the woman she's always destined to be. I really enjoyed being in those meetings as a reader and get to know their plans and train of thoughts. It just didn't shut out the whole task that Wendy would have to take when she's a future queen. I'm absolutely thrilled that the author didn't only talk about the personal affairs, but also put a lot of attention on what this is all about: the threat. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Speaking of the threat we're in for a lot of action in this book. Even though we are seeing a lot of meetings and battlefields, the book takes time to present scenes where Trylle and Vittra will meet. These scenes in particular always gave me chills because of the nature of the Vittra. That's something I have always admired with this series, the author made such a great representation of the Vittra and when they meet each other on the battlefield or in either ones kingdoms, we're in for action and thrill. Once again these emotions will make us get ready for what will come. The tension between the two was also something that got bigger, which I had expected because it is the last book, nonetheless it was something I really enjoyed!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Next up are the emotional and personal problems, or challenges, Wendy will have to conquer in the last book! We've come a long way and we also know that Wendy's heart is torn up between different men. Now the series is coming to an end, we'll see how this will turn out. Therefore the author gave us all the options and so many things to feel through different scenes. It is time to find out if your ship survives people! I absolutely enjoyed this challenge, especially because Wendy had to find an answer. Above that the pressure she's now feeling will influence her relationships and make it an even bigger mystery to who she might pick. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This book is just a great story with the emotional factor and the political one! There's action, there's thrill, there's romance, and so much more! Also the family aspect will come forward even more in <i>Ascend </i>and I really fell for that more than I had expected. Even though it isn't discussed too much we'll still be able to live through it and feel connected to it when it is discussed and get a few answers we were dying to get.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">One thing I'd love to point out however is the fact that Amanda Hocking twisted this story so much. It came as a huge surprise to not see the story go as I had first anticipated. I think we can all agree that when you read a book, you know how the author will try to maneuver it. There's always that thread that connects the characters to each other and to the events. I really had not thought that this story could end up so much more different. I have to say that this caused me to be so disappointed, because I had really high expectations of the story to go and end this way. The author really showed great courage with twisting it and making the characters go another way. After coming to terms with it and accepting it, I did actually love how it went. And I absolutely want to applaud the author for making this change of course.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Lastly I want to point out that there's a prologue to the story and it was included in my copy of the book because it's bonus content. If it's not included in your copy of <i>Ascend</i>, I think you can find it online as an e-book type but I'm not sure. What I can say about <i><b><span style="color: #990000;">Ever After</span></b></i> is that I absolutely loved the bonus content. It was absolutely amazing to see how this series had ended and how all the characters have moved on from it too. It gives us one last look to each and every one of them and to feel like this is really the end. It just really gives the readers more closure by giving us a glance in their happily (?) ever after! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUsRC2i1KDdDndB10fPP0JSkWBNU-FKY_vi_O6KODmhjDLUlmlRnY4G4WUYGjuhaWe3yYNhHWRvQifNCeMePG20TuFQlpaVLye-xWOCZPM4uPfzDP-BvfJUAw33uI6Eusl27zcDOuJbC65/s1600/IMG_7955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUsRC2i1KDdDndB10fPP0JSkWBNU-FKY_vi_O6KODmhjDLUlmlRnY4G4WUYGjuhaWe3yYNhHWRvQifNCeMePG20TuFQlpaVLye-xWOCZPM4uPfzDP-BvfJUAw33uI6Eusl27zcDOuJbC65/s320/IMG_7955.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Although I had expected a total different ending, I did enjoy this book as the end of the Trylle series. The characters have grown so much over the course of 3 books and I really adore how Wendy became the strong independent woman she was destined to be. I really admire that the author dared to change the story up and turn another way with some characters so that the readers are left with a total different outcome. I do admit that I was a little disappointed it didn't go the way I wanted it, however I did come to terms with it since it's a beautiful ending. Also the big concern that's been hovering over this series is finally resolved and I have to say that I absolutely loved it! The author took time for a plan and then action and let me tell you... action it is! Even though I didn't enjoy this book as much as I did the first one, I'm still really happy that I picked up the series and finished it! Bonus points for Amanda Hocking to change it up and leave us with a book and ending that's so different from what we might have expected since book one.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;">“I will make this world a better place, whether they like it or not. That’s the fun of being Queen.” </span></span></div>
<br />Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com09060 Zelzate, België51.1987114 3.811977200000001251.1589114 3.731296200000001 51.2385114 3.8926582000000014tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-38634368386375263782017-09-20T12:00:00.000+02:002017-09-20T12:00:14.594+02:00Predestined<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">A little while back I remember saying that I was a little disappointed in the first book of a series. It had been a book series that was on my shelf for what feels like <i>eternity</i>. Above that it was hard to find those books, and eventually I got my hands on the first one! Even though I was disappointed I was really willing to read the rest of the series and hope things would be getting better! Well, update! I read the second book, <b><span style="color: orange;">Predestined by Abbi Glines</span></b>, and I have to tell you: it got better! </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>WARNING </b>For the ones here that haven't read the first in this series, I recommend you </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">not </i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">to read on since there will be further developments to the characters and to the plot. This will create a less pleasant read of <i>Predestined </i></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">because you know more information than you already should. Therefore, I recommend you </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">not </i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">to read the review of <i>Predestined </i>but to read the review about the first in the series: <a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2017/05/existence.html">Existence</a></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Just clicking on the title will open a new page with the review on the first book. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVIzhz-F3F6B0Qq4hVc5NBO_Ou727L67LASxiQH433P2IohEQVcIsHmwEEFMuN_86TWpvIfc7X0hk43EDByWZs_CMxrhnUoj4ARwVy6AGNXwmCecC4aL_w8N8FXDlId-B7GnULCqfDUqVE/s1600/IMG_8657.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVIzhz-F3F6B0Qq4hVc5NBO_Ou727L67LASxiQH433P2IohEQVcIsHmwEEFMuN_86TWpvIfc7X0hk43EDByWZs_CMxrhnUoj4ARwVy6AGNXwmCecC4aL_w8N8FXDlId-B7GnULCqfDUqVE/s320/IMG_8657.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>With Leif being gone, everything seems to get back to normal. Nobody knew what Leif really was, not even Death himself. Him being a soulless creature could have been a lot of trouble for their little town. Even though Leif has gone missing, Pagan still sees him frequently. Her memories are catching up with her in the form of dreams. Ever since she was a little girl Leif has been around her, trying to help her and to protect her. Now she sees him in every dream and every memory, making sure that she never forgets who was with her first.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Meanwhile Dank starts to understand there's no way that he can't ignore Leif's influence on Pagan's dreams. Finally finding out that Pagan's soul has been marked by something even Death doesn't want an encounter with, Dank realizes that saving her will be a hard task. But not as hard as having to live without her for the rest of his life. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This book really made me believe that I did the right thing. I'm so happy that I didn't put this series aside and not read on! <i>Predestined </i>has surprised me in such a good way and I'm also really happy with how the characters evolved!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Speaking of the characters, let's talk about Pagan. I feel like this character still really amazes me. Just the confidence this girl carries is absolutely outstanding for a main character, however I did feel as if we saw a more tender side of her during <i>Predestined</i>. During this story we'll see how old memories will resurface for Pagan and this will be having dramatic changes. She'll feel less strong and stressed. This will also immediately be reflected in her behavior.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Did I hate seeing this in her character? Absolutely <i>not</i>. Even though I know she's a very confident person and stands up for herself, it was nice to see that sometimes she also has moments where she feels less confident and needs others to help her out. This isn't something where one of her friends will be able to help, so she'll automatically go to Dank for that but I mean... I'm not complaining! Also, the dreams will bring some action into the story which will also show us how Pagan reacts on danger and risking her life. I absolutely loved to see the fight in her and how she protects the people she loves! The ability we first saw with our main character in book one will not be addressed as much anymore but I absolutely didn't mind that because the story brings other elements to keep us connected and into the story. Overall a great character that shows a lot of courage. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for our sweet, beloved Dank! Gah, I absolutely adore him. His protectiveness that we saw in <i>Existence </i>hasn't changed at all and I just love how he is around Pagan. This time around he even gets <i>his own chapters</i> which I am so happy about! Overall I also feel like Dank really has become more mature and I loved to see that in this character. What I always noticed though was his sweet side and once again the readers will see this. He just brings very strong emotions to the story and that also makes sure that the readers will not be left without feelings. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Did I see a dramatic change in Dank? No, he's still very protective and pro Pagan. That only made sure that he'll go to the ends of the world to help her and that's the spirit we'll need during this read. One thing I did notice about Dank is that we'll get to see more of his position in the universe and his influence. Readers will be pushed into his world of what his obligations are and I really did enjoy to see that happen, especially because it's told in his perspective. It brings us a bigger understanding of who he is and just deepens his character more. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8kjqSsoI-aAStfNayZOVhxYlQf2JvbxRiMLMg7WWB6GaejVwqBdDdU1JGV6z09nNmEwBIfml16YqyCdEo16-Hdn3ym_WGS2HPui_ohLbYhu4otsm67DDXISkgLoafZr2JnQyRGnwfCdIK/s1600/IMG_8658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8kjqSsoI-aAStfNayZOVhxYlQf2JvbxRiMLMg7WWB6GaejVwqBdDdU1JGV6z09nNmEwBIfml16YqyCdEo16-Hdn3ym_WGS2HPui_ohLbYhu4otsm67DDXISkgLoafZr2JnQyRGnwfCdIK/s320/IMG_8658.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">With seeing more of Dank's obligations, we'll also see that Dank's away from Pagan a lot more. That while she's struggling with the dreams and her memories. A certain danger is forming under their noses but neither really sees it. Their relationship will therefore be put to the test. Both really need each other and their love is sweet so it was very interesting to see how these factors influenced their relationship.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for the plot, I have to say I was absolutely <i>amazed </i>by it. Especially because the author made enough time to write out Pagan's dreams that are actually memories from her childhood. This really brought a new sense of mystery that I absolutely enjoyed. Above that in the beginning of the dreams there are flashbacks of Pagan's friends as well and I really loved to see how that relationship started to grow and how it influenced their future. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The thing with these dreams was that they started to form the story. The dreams really lead to this one big revelation that we need to know to understand what kind of danger our characters are now in. I think it was a very great thing of the author to reveal this through dreams, because it took some time to piece everything together for the characters as well as for the readers. Above that it really brought a great deal of mystery and tension which I could absolutely enjoy. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This element of the story was very well written as it absolutely builds up the tension and leads to a big revelation that's mind blowing</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As this is the second book and we already know Pagan's ability, <i>Predestined </i>doesn't make a lot of time to get into it anymore. She still sees souls, but the plotline won't be focusing on that anymore. There will be a new darker element that comes to the story. It's something totally new and also a new kind of character that'll bring this story some action. I have to say that I am more satisfied with this than with Pagan's ability in book one, because the author made more time to specify and describe this new element in the story with it's own unique powers and behavior. Abbi Glines really took her time to build this out better than she did with the ability in my opinion and I really appreciate that.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">However this new aspect will bring answers that have to do with Pagan's ability which then again was something I was looking forward to. I never had expected to get these answers and they also come as a big surprise. The author really thought this through and made sure that the readers will be thrilled as well as in shock. Never had I ever anticipated to get answers to Pagan's ability or to ever know why she is the way she is, so it's safe to say that's a big asset!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">A thing I hadn't expected in <i>Predestined </i>was the emotional rollercoaster that we'll be on. There are a few aspects that really surprised me and will mark the readers to feel sad. Of course there are also cute scenes between characters and other scenes where we'll have to brace ourselves. In comparison to <i>Existence</i>, I feel like <i>Predestined</i> just really deepened its story by creating all these scenario's where other emotions besides love could be felt and I absolutely appreciated that. Just know what you'll be in for, and be ready! Mark my words.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Lastly we will see some action as well, the only remark to the plot is that I sometimes wished the action would stick around longer. Even though I feel like the plot is a lot better, I did wish that the pace of these scenes weren't as high paced as they were. A bit more danger, risking and fighting for the things you want would have been better in my opinion. Now it felt rather done fast and quick so we could move on. Other than that I really don't have any remarks to this book so that also means I can conclude this review!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I absolutely adored the second book. Comparing the first book to the second book, </span><i style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">Predestined</i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">, was a lot better and didn't disappoint me at all. The only remark I have is that some scenes were written on a fast pace not leaving enough room to feel the action and tension because it ended so soon. Other than that I really loved how what we </span>learned<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> at the end of book one was now a major influence. Above that the two main characters finally felt like a lot closer so us readers could enjoy it more. And boy, did I enjoy it... The plot was really well written and always up for a twist and a surprise I bet half of us didn't see coming. And the characters really showed a big change and evolved in a better way in my opinion. I absolutely enjoyed the second book, and let me tell you the ending is so sweet! Interpret that in any way you want... I can't wait for the 3rd and last book in this series!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: orange; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“He's already proven he'll defy Heaven to keep her. If Hell wants a piece of him too, then bring it on.”</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14px;"> </span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Verenigde Staten37.09024 -95.712891000000013-36.4162205 99.052733999999987 90 69.521483999999987tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-57508588515214107782017-09-13T12:00:00.000+02:002017-09-13T12:00:00.308+02:00The Winner's Kiss<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Dearly beloved, the time has come to say goodbye. Goodbye to amazing characters, an amazing trilogy. Goodbye to an amazing story that now has come to an end. It pains me to say that we will close a book-series, one that I have grown to adore from the first few pages. One that I totally absorbed and got absorbed by. With the last book in the series, <b><span style="color: orange;">The Winner's Kiss by Marie Rutkoski</span></b>, we will be left but not without a phenomenal ending. A review about the last book in a series that has become my favorite this year!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>WARNING </b>For the ones here that haven't read the first in this series, I recommend you </span><i style="background-color: white;">not </i><span style="background-color: white;">to read on since there will be further developments to the characters and to the plot. This will create a less pleasant read of <i>The Winner's Crime </i></span><span style="background-color: white;">because you know more information than you already should. Therefore, I recommend you </span><i style="background-color: white;">not </i><span style="background-color: white;">to read the review of The Winner's Crime but to read the review about the first in the series: <a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2017/05/the-winners-curse.html">The Winner's Curse</a></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">. If you're interested in the second book, The Winner's Crime, I also wrote a review about that book. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Just clicking on the title will open a new page with the review on the first book. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>War has arrived and it will not be easy to defeat. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="background-color: white;">Arin is making strategies to defeat the enemy together with his new allies. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Even though he tries to convince himself that he no longer thinks about Kestrel, his mind and heart often go back to those sweet times. Trying to forget about her for good, he throws himself into a battle that might become his death.</span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="background-color: white;">Meanwhile </span><span style="background-color: white;">the woman in his heart is somewhere in the Tundra. As a prisoner for her betrayal to the empire and her own father, Kestrel has time to feel the pain. The pain of her father letting her go. The pain of losing Arin. Kestrel starts fighting to keep her conscious and tries hard to escape what might become her death. </span></b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This book! This book! <i>This book</i>! I can't believe how the author keeps writing these amazing books. If you haven't picked up the first one... what are you doing here? This is going to spoil all of this fantastic series! Also instead of reading this, go pick up the first book! Hurry!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The thing I noticed about the characters and actually the whole book in general, is that our focus changes. In<i> The Winner's Crime</i> we really saw how Kestrel was protecting Arin but this time she can't protect him. Kestrel is in a prison and is now suffering. In<i> The Winner's Crime</i> we saw how Arin suffered through her actions and now she's suffering from her actions. I really love how the characters focus changes but still has this element that attaches the change to what we already saw before.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The thing with Kestrel is that I feel it's one of the first times we really see her suffer. Yes, we saw her feel bad and suffer but this is different. She's imprisoned. Her father let het get taken away because of his beliefs. We really see how the prison feels like and how everything works in the world Marie Rutkoski created. But most of all we see how Kestrel's feelings finally catch up with the past two books. Her heartbreak is ginormous and that makes her level of suffering far worse than what we have seen before. </span></span><span style="background-color: white;">The once strong Kestrel now seemed like a totally different character, a person without the fight inside of her, a person without her strategies. I really loved to see this side of Kestrel because it brings more dept into her character and shows the readers that she's more than a strong strategist. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Also what I really admired with this character is that she eventually will fight. The prison tries to make the prisoners calm and without any emotion so they work harder. The battle between wanting to forget everything because of her obvious heartbreak and the will to break free is therefore a big element that'll be important for this character. We'll really see how Kestrel is fighting to be strong again but also wants to give up the fight because she lost Arin and her father. A very strong character that gives us new insight in her personality. Even though we only see it in the last book, I didn't mind that too much because it was an amazing turn.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">As for Arin, also he's changing more and more. I felt like in the first book, <i>The Winner's Curse</i>, he was just a boy. Now, in the third and last book, we really see how everything has changed him. He's become this new man who has been through so much. Also his past will be something that's discussed in <i>The Winner's Kiss</i> which I think is a big asset to his character because it makes us understand more of his past actions. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">His character seems older and more mature because of everything that has been going on during this trilogy. Above that there's also the obvious heartbreak on Arin's part, however I feel like the heartbreak with this character was already obvious in <i>The Winner's Crime</i>. How Arin feels and what he'll do with his broken heart will take interesting turns though which I think is a good thing, but I can't tell more about that!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">What I <i>can </i>say about Arin's character is that I'm <i>really </i>impressed with him. When you look at the past three books, you really see that he has evolved the most and that his thinking has become deeper and more mature. His personality is also very likable and swoon-worthy which we all know by now! I absolutely adored him, his bad sides included!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">As for the relationship between our two characters, we've seen a lot of that happening already. The first book really focused on them meeting and how their relationship and bond starts to form, the second book then really concentrates on Kestrel trying to protect him and Arin trying to get her back. So as I already mentioned each book changes it's view and starts to focus on a change. It's therefore really interesting to see what the third and last book, <i>The Winner's Kiss</i>, is going to do with our two characters and how everything will evolve. If we'll get a happy ending or if these two will see each other again is a question you'll have to find the answer to yourself! All I can tell is that I'm really happy that the author made this evolve and have certain turns I hadn't seen coming! </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgujqQgKXzfTL_eKHFu62WoWLMrZHTAr2k3sIFKQ5_GYlauk5q1dUA_ziZr6gYbPq54Ts9_3oAbMVZ-Fs5XMQs6zpxe4zJo8ZxjsNpnos7eCFFZRN_3HGFhtl_3rouOwuS97hf3VgjcxiPP/s1600/IMG_8655.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgujqQgKXzfTL_eKHFu62WoWLMrZHTAr2k3sIFKQ5_GYlauk5q1dUA_ziZr6gYbPq54Ts9_3oAbMVZ-Fs5XMQs6zpxe4zJo8ZxjsNpnos7eCFFZRN_3HGFhtl_3rouOwuS97hf3VgjcxiPP/s320/IMG_8655.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Now the plot! The story finally starts with the war. In the first book there wasn't really any case of war. Everyone lived peacefully but then of course, there was the rebellion which had set things in motion. In<i> The Winner's Crime</i> we then saw how the empire and strategists were trying to overpower each other and get the best out of their situation. And then we finally arrive at the last book and it's really time for war! </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I actually have to say that I really looked forward to this. Especially now we have a new game piece: the east. Arin had been trying to make them his allies and also succeeded in doing so. The thing I really love about the east is that they bring other habits and also new views on war. I just really adored their influence on the story. It really comes together as one coherent concept that's very realistic: every land has it's own habits, own strategies and own views. That's no different in this book! And I really loved that because the habits and the things they wore are so much different from each other. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">However with every war there are allies and when everyone works together they start to take over their habits. This is something Marie Rutkoski also took into account and also wrote out for the readers. If there's anything I'm really happy that the author really made detailed sceneries that we could then read and really view with our fantasy. The fact that she also paid attention to those habits and spend time making these differences was therefore very appreciated. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Another element in the plot is that we'll also get some more action in this book. Although I think we already had some action in the past books, <i>The Winner's Kiss</i>' focus really is on the war between the Empire and the rest of the lands. With war I think we all expect more than one fight and more action than we've had before. The author came to our aid and also really brought us scenes of battle. Not only the good kind but also the loss and the new strategies!</span><span style="background-color: white;"> I've always been a fan of the strategies, and once again the author doesn't leave us without them.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The only thing we'll be seeing a lot less in this book is the betrayal and the games. This is probably because the war has already begun and everyone has taken sides. There's no need to betray people or to play games. Did I miss that aspect? Not really. I find that the book didn't really need it just because the war really takes up the plot and makes sure we've got enough elements there to keep us busy and entertained. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Next to war we'll also see the two main characters be on their own path. Arin is already in the war, but Kestrel is imprisoned. I think it's an asset to the readers to also live through the sort imprisonment that the Empire sees fit. It really brings a lot of other and new details and characteristics that we can pin to the empire. As for Arin, as I already mentioned he's already in war but he'll make sure that the readers will get a good view on how the east will react and claim their space in war. Which is also a very nice thing to read about! Both characters will just make sure that more details and characteristics of other lands will become known. Even though it's the last book, I really enjoyed getting to know the other lands even better!</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Another thing I absolutely adored in this book was the past of Arin that got a little bit more revealed. Arin will tell tales of his past and also his gods will be around. These little elements are things that really define Arin and make him who he is. Therefore reading into his past and getting to understand (at last) why he did the things that he did, is something readers will find amazing. Also the part of his gods will be more important in this book and really makes Arin's character even better.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for Kestrel, we know her heartbreak and as I already said she's imprisoned. <i>The Winner's Kiss</i> is finally going to add more to the bond between her father and her. Some questions will be answered and readers will not be disappointed at all! Their relationship as well as both characters will be talked about and seen more so that we'll finally be able to understand what went wrong and why. I think that's a nice element to close this series off with because I think this was something that defined Kestrel's personality.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Does this mean that we won't be seeing some Kestrel and Arin action? Who knows. I can't really say much about that, especially because that's just the fun of the book. However I can really say that I'm absolutely amazed and happy with how the book ends and how the trilogy is closed off. After a long ride of 3 books with so much loss and games and betrayal, I think it's safe to say that readers will <i>not </i>be left disappointed. At least I really wasn't! </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">And with this review, this series ends! I can't believe that it's over and it also really pains me to think of that! Marie Rutkoski has given me a new series to treasure and also and ending I never came close to. <i>The Winner's Kiss</i> has surprised me in many ways and the author has once again showed us that she can keep exciting us. This time I felt that the focus has changed once again and claims the war as theme. I have to say I respect the author a lot to refocus her theme in every book but still make it one coherent trilogy. As in all other books, we'll be able to enjoy strategies and see them being executed with it's effects as we get a closer look onto the war. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">As this is the last book in the trilogy, a lot of remaining questions get answers and new questions still arise which I think is an asset to the book. The author keeps making us guess and question certain characters but also certain situations. And speaking of characters, they surprised me even more! It's amazing to see them grow even further and play with their demons during the times of war. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Lastly, there's still the part where the trilogy is written with an all-knowing-persona but once again the author won't give everything to us. There's still so much room to speculate or even to be surprised because things turned out totally opposite than what we might have expected. I absolutely loved that effect in this story. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">To conclude I think it's fair to say that this is an outstanding ending that's both thrilling but also very satisfying. Even after two books the author has given us a worthy last book that still gives us all the things we loved during the story. I am in tears! This book (and this entire series) is absolutely magnificent. A huge recommendation!</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: orange; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>"Some kisses come at a price."</i></span></div>
Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Valoria47.6112768 1.332517000000052622.0892423 -39.976076999999947 73.1333113 42.641111000000052tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-65154039683180150212017-09-06T12:00:00.000+02:002017-09-06T12:00:01.716+02:00Hopeless | Audiobook<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">A book that's been on my to be read shelf for over two years has finally been picked up because I was going to Luxembourg! Yes, that sounds weird right? Let me explain: what do you do on a 2 hour and 45 minute drive that became a 5 hour drive because of traffic jams? You listen to an Audiobook because you can't read while driving without getting sick. So that's exactly what I did: I picked up the Audiobook: <b style="color: orange;">Hopeless by Colleen Hoover </b>and listened for the entire drive to Luxembourg and back. My third book by this author and I have to say I'm not disappointed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>It takes one encounter with a total stranger for Sky to finally feel something real. It's the only boy she ever has had any attraction to. The one worst thing about it? The guy is hopeless and totally arrogant and strange. Feeling things she never has felt before for a guy, Sky is terrified that he has so much control over her. Yet he makes her feel fireworks and nostalgic, bringing up memories she wished wouldn't ever be revealed. But he has some secrets he hasn't been sharing either and Sky feels torn between the past and present while feeling so many things for this hopeless boy. The question is is he really who he says he is and why does he keep things from her? Totally hopeless herself Sky is in for the ride of her life finding out truths she never thought were lies before... </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Being a book that's been on my to be read shelf for so long, I have to say it was even more surprising as I had first thought it would be. I read two other books by Colleen Hoover by now so I like her style enough to dare and go into another book by her. I have to say it stayed on my shelf for so long because I didn't know if I would really like it as much as it seemed but having listened to it now I can safely say I'll read, or well listen better yet, the sequel!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The first thing I really want to get into are the characters, especially because they brought a deepness and surprise I never thought would happen. To really be honest, I had never expected that the characters or even the plot would have turned out as it did. First we have Sky, she seems like a normal teenager when we first get to know her. The only thing that's "wrong" with her is that she doesn't feel anything when there's a boy around. She just feels nothing at all and watches her stars on her ceiling. I guess that was something that intrigued me with this character from the start. This just made me think that the story would be about Sky having to find her first true love to make her feel things but soon enough we'll notice that a lot more things are going on with Sky. The book makes time to let us know what she dreams. These dreams aren't even just dreams they're memories from when she was little and still lived with her biological parents who put her up for adoption. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">At the first memory we get we have this feeling there's a lot more to the story than we know. That Sky isn't only this teenager that doesn't feel anything but that something else is going on. However Sky's personality isn't one that worries a lot. She's very confident and tends to just go with the flow. The only insecurity she has is when she's with boys and doesn't feel anything. That all changes when she meets the second main (male) character in the book, Holder, and she starts to feel so much more. He brings a lot more memories at night which readers will immediately absorb into their minds and hold onto. It's also from that moment on that we see Sky turn into another part of her. From the beginning we knew she wasn't very emotional, she's strong and independent and most of all she's confident. The moment she meets Holder and her memories come more frequently, she becomes fiercer and stubborn. Especially when she sees Holder or is talking with him. I really loved to see this stubbornness and fierce part in her although sometimes I think both Sky and Holder were being angry for nothing!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">However the more memories she gets and the more Holder makes her feel, the more insecure Sky is becoming and even though this seems like too big of a change, I really enjoyed seeing her turn into this Sky. It brought more softness to her personalty and didn't make her seem like she knew everything better and was so confident you couldn't get to her. It brought a deepness and even more understanding to this character and made the reader notice that something was going on with this character and it wasn't only not feeling anything for boys. Something in her past was haunting her and Holder is triggering things even she doesn't know anything about. It's also from that moment, where Sky becomes this more insecure and bomb of emotions that we start to question everything, starting with Holder.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Holder's very alike Sky, he's very confident and sure of himself. Although he always, from the start, had this softness that Sky didn't have. He was the gentler person and always knew when things weren't going the way someone else wanted them to. He's always there for them, even though he's that confident. It's not as if his confidence becomes arrogant and I liked that a lot. In the beginning I thought Holder would be this cocky character in the book but Colleen Hoover really surprised me with making him this soft person. Readers will also really notice how fast he can lose his temper which was also a surprise when he's such a gentle person, however I loved that he could also be so fierce about things. But as I mentioned before, sometimes I thought both got angry over the smallest things and I just wanted them both to get over it a lot faster than they did. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The thing between these two characters is that they both are so much different when they're together and it brings Sky this nostalgic feeling and Holder is keeping things which obviously makes this combination as exciting as dangerous for the readers because we don't know enough to make a verdict. However I think both characters were very easy to love, especially together. They brought the best from each other, ones they stopped being angry for nothing. The combination of Sky's big personality change and Holder's softness but strength really made this amazing bond between the two that's both swoon-worthy and suspicious for the readers. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Even though the memories triggered by Holder make the plot make interesting turns, I think everyone who read the book will agree with me that we wouldn't be able to hate or resist Holder at all. The characters were really well written with more dept and softness than I had expected and also were a lot different than I had thought and that's all because of the influence of the plot.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Why? Because the plot really turned my whole view on this book upside down. I thought this was going to be this classic romantic and predictable story well I was wrong all along. Yes there is something going on with Holder and how he's triggering all these memories of Sky's past but still the author keeps the reasons why and what has happened then so well hidden! It really leaves a lot of room for the reader to make wild guesses and maybe, just like me, be totally wrong about everything you thought this was about. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I think it's a very interesting thing to see this story turn into something so much more deeper than I had expected and that's really all I can tell about it. What I first thought to be a typical romance about a girl finding a boy, them arguing, breaking up and getting back together, was totally not the case. Although this book also contains a high amount of sweet romance which really isn't anything that's going to bother the reader, this book will really start to fall apart. The plot line will start making sudden turns and reveal memories that open a way to memory lane. And boy, let me tell you that neither of the two characters had ever imagined that.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This book really contains a lot of mystery and when you think you <i>finally </i>know what's going on and what is linking these two characters together, there's even <i>more</i>! I have to admit that the author, Colleen Hoover, has really surprised me in a good way. I had never thought that a book could be so different from what I had ever expected! And that's not even all because when you finally know every part of the truth and people are ready to confront it and open up for it something happens that will leave you so speechless. Damn I wish I could tell but I absolutely can't. I can however say that once again Colleen Hoover made a surprising move and really turned all of our worlds upside down for the 100th time in this book.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The thing with the plot is that I think it really does a great job with influencing both the readers and the characters. The characters personalities and behavior will really vary on what's going to be revealed. Especially because there's a big part Sky doesn't even know anything about. These memories are all new to her as she doesn't even remember anything. This of course brings a lot more feelings and a lot more changes to her story and personality which I think was amazing to witness. How such a strong character can change so much due to the things she now learns, is also something that's a big part of reality. We also change a lot when things happen or when things we didn't know are revealed and I think that's a great asset to the book: the realistic part. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">To conclude I can say I was so scared to finally start this book, but heck I shouldn't have been! Once again Colleen Hoover really surprised me with her book by giving it an amazing twist. This book totally turned out different that I thought it would be and when I thought I finally knew how this was going to turn out, it surprised me with another twist! The characters were so well written and the book contained a deepness I hadn't thought to give it when I read the synopsis. So many elements of the past, present and secrets come together to create a plot line I absolutely enjoyed and couldn't stop listening to. If you're looking for a surprise read then this is absolutely your book. You'll be pulled into a world of a normal teenager who's world will be turned upside down because of secrets and her past. You'll be thrilled by all the twists and turns and fall in love with the character's amazing personalities and softness! A deep read that really made me feel so much and made me fall in love once more.</span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;">"</span><span style="background-color: white;">The only thing that matters to me with you are the forevers."</span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Luxemburg49.815273 6.129583000000025149.1595375 4.838689500000025 50.471008499999996 7.4204765000000252tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-24991518128973990142017-08-30T12:00:00.000+02:002017-08-30T12:00:14.326+02:00The Winner's Crime<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">For the love of all the Book Gods, I am lost for words! I finally dared to open the second in a series. And when I say dare, I really mean it because I was so scared to start this book. I shouldn't have been! If I thought this book was going to disappoint me, I was <i>absolutely </i>wrong. I said it with the first book and I'll say it again: this is probably the best book I've read in 2017 so let's make this statement right: this will probably be the best series I've read this year. The second book in The Winner's-trilogy is ready for it's review: <b><span style="color: orange;">The Winner's Crime by Marie Rutkoski</span></b>. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px;"><b>WARNING </b>For the ones here that haven't read the first in this series, I recommend you </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: 16px;">not </i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px;">to read on since there will be further developments to the characters and to the plot. This will create a less pleasant read of <i>The Winner's Crime </i></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px;">because you know more information than you already should. Therefore, I recommend you </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: 16px;">not </i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px;">to read the review of The Winner's Crime but to read the review about the first in the series: <a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2017/05/the-winners-curse.html">The Winner's Curse</a></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px;">Just clicking on the title will open a new page with the review on the first book. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLLikdwdn2LYy5OkTqIsftt3zoj4hS-g9Fxkao4EUi0KjoftO7Rvmrxad-bUidBp_vkgf1enUYvQ94ND6T7kp2jey6ZWRLRjG2dDEIQa0R_x_jWl6LJKGj1P0YD2LQ39xvoi0RDobdWmol/s1600/wc.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="596" data-original-width="598" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLLikdwdn2LYy5OkTqIsftt3zoj4hS-g9Fxkao4EUi0KjoftO7Rvmrxad-bUidBp_vkgf1enUYvQ94ND6T7kp2jey6ZWRLRjG2dDEIQa0R_x_jWl6LJKGj1P0YD2LQ39xvoi0RDobdWmol/s320/wc.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Now Arin is free and has his country back, it's Kestrels duty to keep him safe and free. However everything comes with a price and Kestrel is paying it. Being the Prince's finance, she feels as if she's living in a cage going from one celebration to the other. All this time her heart is longing for someone else but she's made it her job to protect the one that lies closest to her. But with every day that day of the wedding approaching and every moment Kestrel has to live through the torture, she's aching to tell Arin the truth about everything and tell him how she sacrificed everything because of him and so he would be safe. </b></span><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Arin however tried everything to win Kestrel back and to make her tell him the truth, but the </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">God of Lies loves Kestrel and all this time she tried to protect him. Some truths should have been told earlier and some lies should've never been said in the first place. Kestrel becomes the goddess of deceit as she becomes a spy all the while Arin is fighting to keep his country's freedom. When the truth finally will come out, hearts will be cut open and left to bleed...</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This book has left me speechless! The reason why I was so scared to begin the second is the series is because of the ending in<i> The Winner's Curse</i>. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely loved the first in the series and also loved the ending because it wasn't typical and as I had thought it would end. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">By now we all know that (<i>SPOILER ALERT</i> if you're reading this review and haven't read the first book!) Kestrel and Arin aren't together and left each other. We also know there's been made a deal and that Kestrel didn't get engaged because she was madly in love with the prince. All of us that read <i>The Winner's Curse</i> know that sacrifices have been made and that one of the parties doesn't know anything about it. My ship was totally wrecked at the end of the book because my love for Arin and Kestrel is too big for words. My thoughts immediately thought that<i> The Winner's Crime</i> would make sure that Arin and Kestrel would be far away from each other and that the book would begin to develop a plot where both don't or barely see each other. However the author really made sure that both characters were still linked to each other and would develop the plot while also coming across each other in different situations! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">So the thing that scared me to start <i>The Winner's Crime</i> was really nothing to be scared of and even though the characters will not be like they were in the first book, due to circumstances and lies, I still absolutely enjoyed the atmosphere they brought the book and how, independently, they twisted the story to what is has become! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">What I really feel with these characters is that each of them is growing on a rapid pace and have now fully stepped into the world of deceit and lies. Although<i> The Winner's Curse </i>also really focused on this, I felt like the second book did an even better job on this! Especially because the lies are the main thing that split our characters apart from each other and might keep them that way or might bring them together like this.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The role with deceiving and lying and being totally focused on the game was really Kestrels and I absolutely loved to see how she was going at it. From the first book we knew that Kestrel has a very strong mind that's smart and knows how to makes strategies. We wouldn't expect less of a general's daughter. However in<i> The Winner's Crime,</i> Kestrel did an even better job especially because she felt the need to. This need was very clear for the readers and also made it very pleasant. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Once again we saw a very strong and determined Kestrel that always explained her motives to the readers but never let anything get obvious to the other characters that she was deceiving them. Her strategies were totally new and also amazing to see. The author really made sure that we could follow every step through her mind and that we knew her motives and which strategy she preferred over the other. The thing with Kestrel in this book was that I really felt like she was balanced out. Her longing to protect Arin was so strong that it made her mind games even better and her strategies excellent. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The last thing I really want to say about Kestrel is that she might look very strong and of course, she is! However we really see her suffer in this book as well, because she can't have what she wants so badly. Her need to protect is bigger which I think is a trait from this character that came out a lot stronger in the second book than it did in the first. The things she wants and where she's currently at because of her protectiveness also really reflects how caged she feels and how it's making her rot from the inside out. Above that Kestrel doesn't only want to keep Arin safe by helping him and give information through someone else, she also wants her father to love her and respect her. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">That's something that Kestrel always has wanted, even since the first book and I have to say that my questions about if this was going to be resolved and how are now satisfied. The author will also concentrate on her inner conflict: getting the love of her Father and being with the man she loves. There's a lot in store for Kestrel and she'll be walking on a very thin line where she'll have to be careful not to make any mistakes. The verge of danger she's in and what her heart wants will really make this character amazing and magnificent!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for Arin, I really felt that his character struggled a lot as well and was in an inner conflict just like Kestrel. Arin is also longing for everything in the past and that made it hard for him to move on and be a man. The plot will keep referring to Arin fighting between the little boy from the first book and the man that he's now in the second book. Arin does play well in the games at court, however he's less of a game player in <i>The Winner's Crime</i>. While Kestrel really is fighting for something close to Arin, Arin is trying to keep his land and busy with other political influences that can help him keep Harran. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Although he might be busy with other things, Arin will still think of Kestrel a lot. And Kestrel's strength of strategy has been rubbed off on him in this book. The author really showed how much more Arin can do and how much he can think like Kestrel which I think was a great asset to the book because that was something that linked the two characters, now split, together. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Speaking of the two linked together, both will see each other on multiple occasions through the book where we see their personalities develop and grow stronger. Kestrel being deceiving to protect but also being a source of information for Arin without him knowing and Arin being smarter, stronger and more developed. Both of their characters are going to be very strong and stubborn which will form multiple clashes between the two and the readers will be left with frustration because we know everything but they don't! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">A last thing about Arin though, is that I feel like he isn't only struggling with the whole past and present but also with seeing the lies and conspiracies. Throughout the book we'll see that Kestrel has the advantage because she has a stronger mind to make conspiracies, strategies and to lie. Arin is strong in that part too but not as strong as Kestrel which causes Arin to struggle a lot with seeing the truths when he thinks she's lying. Both play a very convincing role in pushing and pulling each other which will have different effects that will leave the readers with feelings all over the place! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The relationship between the two isn't like we saw it in the first book which I think is an asset to the story. The plot has developed in many ways so we can't expect for them to be the same. However since it's written in an all-knowing-persona we do really see what they both long for but how things have changed and what made the change. Meanwhile we'll be left with feeling and wished we were the Gods of love so we could interfere! The characters really showed a big development that left me lost for words but really happy. Their personalities are just so much stronger, kind of the same, which makes it hard for them to interpret and understand each other like they did before, even if their feelings speak the same language. Absolutely outstanding once again!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for the plot there's a game to play so make sure you're ready! Even in <i>The Winner's Curse</i> I noticed that the author had a gift to make these conspiracies and to trick the readers even if it was written in an all-knowing-persona. Also in the second book the conspiracies and games will play a major role. Especially because it's these games that Kestrel needs to protect the person she's wanted from the start. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In the first book the author focused on the empire of Valoria and how Herran was colonized by them. Even then there were conspiracies and rebellion which caused the ending of<i> The Winner's Curse</i> as we all know it now. In <i>The Winner's Crime </i>the focus of war will be less on Herran and more on the East: Dacra. This doesn't mean that Valoria and it's players won't keep Herran in their sight. The book really has a higher political aspect than it had in <i>The Winner's Curse</i> but I actually loved to see that because it made sure that we could see our characters form strategies which I absolutely adore. Being that the focus of war has changed also brings Arin to the table. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As I mentioned the eyes won't leave Herran because many Valorian people are not happy that it got it's independence. Kestrel will do anything to make sure it keeps it and therefore will also start playing an even more dangerous game. For the first time Kestrel changes her ways and will turn on her own nationality because of Arin. Even though he doesn't know, Kestrel will be feeding information and she'll be everywhere when it comes to the political games. Why? Because the emperor of Valoria knows how strong Kestrel is when it comes to war and making moves and he wants her to take over when she's ready. I really loved how the plot turned this story so much in the second book. Although <i>The Winner's Curse</i> also contained this political aspect, I feel like it didn't concentrate on it as much as it did in <i>The Winner's Crime</i>. The danger is real because Kestrel turned on her people and will now have to be extra careful. The author also really shows what happens when you do that and how dangerous it can get.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The plot really needed all these wars and strategies to make the plot evolve the way it did. I can't really tell more because that would spoil but just know it's <i>not </i>a boring thing at all! Many might think this will be dragging on but in fact it made things a lot more interesting and also a lot clearer. You really got to be in the character's head and see how every move is written out and why they chose things the way they did. The war is now everywhere. Valoria is turning onto Herran and Dacra which makes things very interesting for the main characters and will develop a lot of things.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The plot is one big game where the players have to trust their gut to see through lies and deceit. I think that was also the thing that made me love this book the most: even though our characters aren't close all times both still play the game to favor the other and to find out the truth. The lies are big and important and the reader really needs to read carefully which also makes us feel like we're into this book. It really gives a lot of freedom to think for ourselves and to search for motives of other characters such as the General, the emperor, the queen of Dacra and even old friends. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Even though we think we know everything because of the all-knowing-persona we keep being presented with these unexpected turns that make us suffer or encourage the characters to go on and that's really what a book should do: be unexpected when it seems like we know everything. If you loved the first book and really fell in love and made Kestrel and Arin your ship, then you'll also be on fire when it comes to feelings. It's really as if we're part of this game where we see our characters go away from each other because of everything that's happening: the war, the upper hand in the game, the players and the conspiracies. It's easy to feel lied to in this book and to have to guess if you're right or wrong which adds to the feels in this book and made the characters as they are now! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">For short the plot is absolutely amazing: it's a big game where it doesn't only resolve around Kestrel and Arin anymore, many other characters will find their way into the story and play along with the game. You'll be lied to, you'll be seeing people disappear and deceive and you'll see how much people long for things they can't have. Above that the plot really influences the moves of the characters and made them develop as they did.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxB2YyxTjqNrmFc2C-4V9IM38cVHFGSIB2xkB3MwK-T_47eI8WKIQcUGQRFNZ5rPCbX701R9P3DrNQI5Lx3aanojeNIU-YCznuYXJlKayu3yHw_H5YhyywFC4t46M4MWg2w8lomNyEJG1I/s1600/IMG_8652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxB2YyxTjqNrmFc2C-4V9IM38cVHFGSIB2xkB3MwK-T_47eI8WKIQcUGQRFNZ5rPCbX701R9P3DrNQI5Lx3aanojeNIU-YCznuYXJlKayu3yHw_H5YhyywFC4t46M4MWg2w8lomNyEJG1I/s320/IMG_8652.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Once again Marie Rutkoski brought an amazing story that followed up on the first book in this series. I was so pleased with book one and finally got around to read the second. I have to admit I was scared to start The Winner's Crime, because I didn't know if I'd like to see my two main characters in a situation they got in at the end of The Winner's Curse. However I'm also really happy to admit that this book turned out to be even better than I had expected. The characters grew and fight against what they see as lies and truths. I really loved how the author played games with us and made us doubt these lies and truths. Above that this book is filled with conspiracy that still involved both characters and therefore kept them linked together even if they weren't near each other. It's an outstanding book that really keeps you on your toes, even though we know almost everything since it's written in 3rd person. I absolutely loved how the plot evolved and how the author played with the characters. A great book (and so far series) if you're in need of a game that's played with lies, conspiracy and so much more!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: orange; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“If you won’t be my friend, you’ll regret being my enemy.” </span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Valoria47.6112768 1.332517000000052622.0892423 -39.976076999999947 73.1333113 42.641111000000052tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-26326488261408745192017-08-23T12:00:00.000+02:002017-08-23T12:00:09.733+02:00The Struggle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As every summer for the past two years I've posted a review about a book in a series that I absolutely adore. And when I say adore, I really mean lots more than that word can ever describe. The book I want to talk about today is also one of that series and also written by one of my most favorite authors! If you followed around on my blog, you might already know how much I love this author and her books: <span style="color: orange;"><b>The Struggle by Jennifer L. Armentrout</b></span>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><b>WARNING </b>For the ones here that haven't read the first in this series, I recommend you </span><i style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">not </i><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">to read on since there will be further developments to the characters and to the plot. This will create a less pleasant read of </span><i style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">The Return</i><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"> and <i>The Power</i> because you know more information than you already should. Therefore, I recommend you </span><i style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">not </i><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">to read the review of The Struggle but to read the review about the first in the series: </span><a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2016/02/the-return.html" style="background-color: white; color: #78bdff; font-size: 16px; text-decoration-line: none;">The Return</a> or the second in the series: <a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2016/10/the-power.html">The Power</a>. <span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">Just clicking on the title will open a new page with the review on the first book. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This book series is also a sequel to the <i>Covenant series</i> by Jennifer L. Armentrout. If you haven't read that series yet but plan on reading it I also suggest to not read any of these books first, since they reveal details of the ending of the <i>Covenant series </i>which comes before these books! If you're interested in finding out what the <i>Covenant series </i>is I also wrote review on those! By clicking on the title of the first book a new page will open and reveal the review: <a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2015/10/half-blood.html">Half-blood</a>. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiynRKzS0P57ghjZVr8TfquMZGxLZBrfeouLHEnLc-iufsOezkwF7QxR-0BjCpGUnYL2FzLGtvQ-IBQjkuuvCgBflqQyVbjRdw-6PA_jY6NMDsmld7ZYKyCFL2HUTx6P7t-uZ4fGqipa0C0/s1600/IMG_8474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiynRKzS0P57ghjZVr8TfquMZGxLZBrfeouLHEnLc-iufsOezkwF7QxR-0BjCpGUnYL2FzLGtvQ-IBQjkuuvCgBflqQyVbjRdw-6PA_jY6NMDsmld7ZYKyCFL2HUTx6P7t-uZ4fGqipa0C0/s320/IMG_8474.JPG" width="320" /></span></a><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Everyone is doubting of what Seth has become. Only one person trusts him with her life and she's the only one willingly to seek him out and this time help Seth to become who he really should be. Believing that Seth isn't a monster, Josie starts to seek him all over the world. However this won't stop the Titans from attacking and getting what they've always wanted: absolute power and control. As they strike their battles against Josie and her friends, the other demi-gods are still in danger and Josie being one of those gods the Titans want doesn't mean anything good. Running from the titans and meanwhile searching for the person she loves, Josie will be in complicated situations where she has to choose between her own life or his. The question is, will she ever find Seth before it's too late?</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As always we'll start with the characters and start with Josie! I really have to say that I admire Josie <i>so much</i>. I've always thought she was a very strong woman, especially with how she handles everything and because her world totally got turned upside down and she kept going. This book really brings another facet to that, in the other books I felt like the focus was on her not being able to defend herself physically and her learning that she could do this on her own. This time around you really felt the emotional part where she was strong and independent for someone else she felt really strong about. Josie really is the only one who wants to help Seth now he is what he is, which we don't even really know. I really admired Josie being strong for someone else and willing to fight for others and not just think about the greater problem which were the titans. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Once again we really saw another side of Josie's strong character which I think is a great asset to the series in general as well. It's really amazing how the author can still make us see new facets and parts of a character, and Jennifer L. Armentrout really did that with Josie. As always I admire her in every way possible and grow to love her even more. Especially because she'll have to endure a lot more during this book than she has in every other book before. And it doesn't only stays with physical strength or mental strength, the author really does make sure that Josie can prove to be a strong female character in every way possible. An amazing well written character she is, she really amazes me each time around! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for our other main character Seth, I really was feeling <i>so </i>happy when he finally got into the book! The author really leaves us in suspension at the beginning of the book, making us wait on SETH! Although I have to say this <i>really </i>gave a big boost to my excitement of seeing him and also brought mystery to where he was and what he was doing, I was so happy to finally see him! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Seth really will be a big mystery for most of the beginning of the book which I think is <i>marvelous </i>when you think about it. The author gave us such a strong character that changes so much from how we once knew him in the rest of the books. He's such an amazing person to Josie and his friends, very protective but gentle and still has this cockiness from time to time. However last time around in<i> The Power</i>, Seth changed and nobody knows if it was for the better or not. We only know he left Josie which is a big thing for the both of them and will have major impacts. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I can't really say much more than that because that would totally ruin the read. All I want to say is that whatever happened to Seth will become clear during the read, but the author really made us wait for it which I think isn't a bad thing but really adds to our mystery and excitement. When he does come around though I really loved Seth, <i>as usual</i>, and really was glad to see him in the picture again. More I won't say because that might give away how his change affected everything around him, his relationships and his personality. Just know: I heart Seth, okay?</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk1Lg7JOgcSdUp-j64RUo_CF6UR3xCIlIocDyW644sGAyXkEwe8ukCUpGL3EC60NYcsRTUFWgaEApnSrLVczsmj0iiy9tgU_sxrbj4BpMIyiosdU0EcHjVL21hLZ4NhS4M-uoViO_pGvaA/s1600/the+sturggle.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="596" data-original-width="595" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk1Lg7JOgcSdUp-j64RUo_CF6UR3xCIlIocDyW644sGAyXkEwe8ukCUpGL3EC60NYcsRTUFWgaEApnSrLVczsmj0iiy9tgU_sxrbj4BpMIyiosdU0EcHjVL21hLZ4NhS4M-uoViO_pGvaA/s320/the+sturggle.png" width="319" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">What I can say more about the relationship between Josie and Seth is that Seth being gone and being whatever the heck he's being really will affect their relationship. In what way I can't tell since that's something for you to find out, but I can say that it reaches another level and deepness I never thought was possible between the two. Once again the author made sure we could see more and root even deeper for these two and I think that's the best thing she could ever give us! Above that the author has this major surprise during this read that involves both of them and you guys cannot even guess how exited I am for that!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Now the plot because <i>oh wow</i> the plot. Of course there's this big problem that the book will focus on: the Titans. This is a problem that's been overshadowing this whole series and what it really is about. Defeating them will therefore be a major thing in this book. Last time in <i>The Power</i>, they were already searching for other demi-gods which now will continue. I have to say that these demi-gods really will give an impact that leaves you chilled and feeling things you never thought you'd ever feel. I personally hadn't seen coming what will happen with them as it also involves one of the characters we've been looking at closely during the books. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The titans will also be involved with this situation of the demi-gods which really gives it a lot more suspicion and thrill. The thing with the titans is, is that in <i>The Struggle </i>they will really start to come forward and will be more involved. We'll see more of them, their behavior and their motives, than we did in any other book before this. This is something I really enjoyed because they're the enemy and being able to situate them was a really good thing during this read. It also gives way to thinking about how we can defeat them and how they'll approach the rest of our characters. A really good plot part in my opinion to boost the series!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Of course next to the overshadowing problem of the series there's Seth being something we don't know what. As I mentioned before we really get to wait it out and drown in mystery! That's the thing I really loved most about this book: the big question about Seth. Him being this whole other thing really divides the group of friends he has and will also majorly affect everyone and the situation. Even if we don't know what he is and if he changed for the better or not, this will bring feels all over the place and that's what I really adored. The impact this will all have on his relationship is also something highly discussed during the book and also something I could really agree was necessary. I can't go too deep into this one especially because it's a big thing in the book, all I can say is that the author really wrote some major surprises during this book and really made sure we totally understood the situation.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Speaking of surprises there's this one thing that surprised me so much and involves our two main characters! Yes, I can't tell but know that surprise is waiting for you and the author did something I never thought would ever happen. Next to being in for surprises during this book and <i>a lot</i> of revelations, I really know that this book will give the readers all they wanted and were waiting for in this book. Once again it has so much thrill and new aspects that boost the book and never make it boring. It makes you exited, it makes you feel so many things and above that the titans will be more involved which will bring situations you never thought would happen involving Josie, involving the other demi-gods and even just the gods. I have to say I was not disappointed at all during this read and the things that will be revealed... oh holy book gods, be ready for it! There's another book after this one and we have to wait so long once again but the wait will be so worth it!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipGsqdABnDRKr3BDnRi-Nz3SYGMj3qDFKP7N6Kj1CnnUyRjeoEzkSlfb_ekr9QWOhGL7vER7kOCkOnVNSJmFYbP9BTs7c8uFmnz0K0HZAxBWJo4djVJ9JxyD485tlCoNQt93y5Xtif_k-S/s1600/the+sturggle.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="597" data-original-width="597" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipGsqdABnDRKr3BDnRi-Nz3SYGMj3qDFKP7N6Kj1CnnUyRjeoEzkSlfb_ekr9QWOhGL7vER7kOCkOnVNSJmFYbP9BTs7c8uFmnz0K0HZAxBWJo4djVJ9JxyD485tlCoNQt93y5Xtif_k-S/s320/the+sturggle.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Such non real characters but such REAL feelings! Gah, just absolutely amazing!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">As always I have nothing to complain about when it comes to Jennifer L. Armentrout. Her stories are filled with thrill and romance that makes your head spin and your heart race. And once again, even if it's the 3rd book in the series, she managed to present an amazing book that won't make you stop reading. I fell in love even more with the main characters as both really make life changing decisions and try to find out what's best for either of them. Of course we finally get answers to questions and get more thrill in this book than I had ever anticipated. The Struggle is also topped of with a lot of unexpected twists and turns I never thought we'd get to read in Seth and Josie's story and believe me when I say that I was that excited and scared that I probably needed medical help! I really couldn't get enough of this book as it contains surprise, romance, changes, decisions, action and of course amazing characters that might or might not make thrilling changes because of... things. I absolutely LOVED this book. If you haven't read Seth's sequal: BE ASHAMED! And pick it up. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>"A bloody path has been chosen. The Great War fought by the few is coming and in the end the sun will fall..."</b></span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Griekenland39.074208 21.82431199999996432.685665 11.497163499999964 45.462751 32.151460499999963tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-57912139864189402392017-08-16T12:00:00.000+02:002017-08-16T12:00:16.380+02:00Emancipated<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Time for a book I received for Christmas from my niece! First of all I'd really like to thank her again for this book so <b>thank you so much</b>. I really felt as if this was a summer kind of read so I also left it for summer. Now it's time and I finally got to read the book <b><span style="color: orange;">Emancipated by M.G. Reyes</span></b> and I have to say I am surprised!</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">6 teens, all no longer under control of their parents, live together under one roof at Venice Beach. And every one of them has something to hide. Bringing them together might end up as a blessing or in a total catastrophe. There are no limits, no rules and no alibis and everyone can betray anyone. Living under the same roof brings a lot more that responsibility, especially when people start to trust one another and share their secrets. Murder, drama, long lost friends and a spy. It takes one person to deceive and betray anyone and nobody will be ready for when that day comes. Especially because other eyes are looking over the house...</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Now the characters, as the synopsis said it contains 6 characters. All these characters were really nice to see together and also amazing to witness but I have to say I wished every character was equally talked about. Some received more attention than others which makes me wonder a lot about if the ones not highly spoken of are really important for the story.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">First of all there's Grace, the character I absolutely loved most and really surprised me the most as well. Grace is just very relatable for me since she's such a silent and calm person also very gentle and kind. I absolutely loved this character for who she was! She didn't seem to be any harm to anyone, very open to everyone and always there when people needed her. The thing a lot of people and all characters in the book might love about this character is her feeling for justice as she writes with people who have been sentenced to death. During the story we get to see her go to visit the person she's writing with and see how much this affects her life. It really brings a lot of sympathy for Grace when you read it which only adds a lot more to how you feel about her. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Something I absolutely loved about Grace was the fact that she didn't only come as a sweet, gentle girl. Grace has this darker side to her and this jealous side to her that I really enjoyed to read about. Especially because it brought more to her relationship with the other characters and also build the intensity of her character: is she really as kind as she seems? Soon enough it seems like Grace's character runs a lot deeper than we expected and also she seems to hide something which I thought was magnificent to witness. It really builds up questions about this character because she kind of deceived us at the beginning of the book. When even she's hiding something but you know she's so gentle you can only wonder if her intentions are good or bad. The author really saved her for last, her part in the book started to grow more towards the end which I think was a good thing because Grace really is my favorite (female) character!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Secondly there's Candace, the step-sister of Grace. I have to say I'm really disappointed in this character as she was the one character that wasn't talked about at all. The synopsis says they all have something to hide but with Candace there's literally no indication to what she might be hiding. All we know is that she's trying to make it in Hollywood which is fine and she has a role she's constantly out for. The thing with Candace is that I really don't have any grip on her and on her life. We know little of her background and she's only interested in other people's business so she can gossip. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">If I had to describe Candace in a few words it'd be arrogant, self-centered and gossip. She really is one of my least favorite characters in this book just because of her personality as well. I found it really hard to like her with the few things we got from her in the story, she written very superficial. She sure does bring drama when she's around which does bring some things to the plot but that's really it. There's no indication of her hiding something or meaning harm to the others other than gossiping. I don't really know if her role in the next books will increase since her role in Emancipated wasn't big and she also didn't get any chapters for herself. This book has six pov's and each chapter is someone elses pov but Candace barely gets any. A very disappointing character to me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Then there's another female character named Lucy. It's not that I didn't like Lucy but she's also not my favorite, that's probably because I'm still trying to figure her out. Lucy gets a very big and important role in the book because of what she's hiding. It also takes a very long time to understand what her secret is and for how long we've known it because Lucy's secret really brings a big mystery in the book that makes things confusing. I can't really get into that too much because then I'd spoil but just know Lucy's secret is major and really affecting the rest of the plot and characters! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for her personality itself, since she has such a big role it's obvious she'll be talked about a lot. First impression of Lucy is that she's kind of distant but the more you see her the more you recognize a facade in it for some reason we don't really know yet. She's also a rock chick in this book and very invested in the music world which I really loved about her because she sparkled passion for music and I absolutely adored that! She comes off strong but eventually it's really easy to like her and get the things she says. I really loved the fact that Lucy is one of those girls that doesn't care what others say and go for what they want, it really shows how courageous and passionate she is!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The last female character is Maya, who's also the youngest sibling. She's also one of those characters that's not spoken of that much which is a little annoying. However the author did increase her participation in the book near the end which really made up for a lot. Her part in the book will also open eyes and be very shocking which was something I never had expected to happen with Maya. The author really saved best for last when it comes to this character so I can't say I don't like the part she plays!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXnhyjNO9DQ29KLw-MWhyVQcmnw5ipVHICPOdQbkw-PGbZ1mgM7vOsa-WCtizkib9K_jDV16eJT7AXovUJU9qGQtkstBr_V93j3M6Uxb2nVIlvs7wVI-SWjeXdbq4kOhkaAXVZX9Fkai_c/s1600/los.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="600" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXnhyjNO9DQ29KLw-MWhyVQcmnw5ipVHICPOdQbkw-PGbZ1mgM7vOsa-WCtizkib9K_jDV16eJT7AXovUJU9qGQtkstBr_V93j3M6Uxb2nVIlvs7wVI-SWjeXdbq4kOhkaAXVZX9Fkai_c/s320/los.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for her character Maya is a very closed off character and only busy with creating an app. Most of the time she isn't around and when she is, there's not much to be said about her. I think that's a little disappointing though that we didn't get to know her better from the start but not knowing her that well really plays with the character she is as she's very closed off. Her secret also leads to her being this and it will also make sure that the characters will start to ask questions about her when she is around. I'm really glad that M.G. Reyes decided to make her role bigger near the end since it really does make sure we can get to know Maya in some way but I hope her role will be bigger in the next book, which I'm sure it will be.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for out male characters, let's start with Paolo. The first impression everyone gets from Paolo is the hot guy, the gets-every-girl guy which is very misleading with this character because he actually has a bigger heart than he leads on. It's also very clear from the start that he's looking for more than just one nightstands and is seeking for something deeper. The question is will he find it in a house full of women? Above that his secret won't be there until he comes into the house which makes it different from the other characters. The secret he's keeping also isn't anything he thought would happen and comes over as a little shocking when it happens.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The main thing with Paolo is that he's trying to find himself out and trying to find what he's been looking for for so long: real, deep and connecting love. He's really trying to figure that out and how he can get that. <i>If </i>he will get that at all. That's going to be the main plotline about Paolo. His secret will be important for a little but gets less interesting further on into the read. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The last character to discuss is John-Michael which is my favorite male character in this book because he's very diverse. The thing with John-Michael is that the first chapter we see him in he's doing something very weird but we don't know for sure what he's doing. The author really wrote it suggestively and readers will have their suspicion and know for 80% sure that what they think is real. However this isn't discussed until very late in the book which makes his character all the better. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">John-Michael is a little like Grace in my opinion which makes him of course a great character in my opinion. Although we already knew the secret from the start, it's still easy to really like this guy for who he is. He's very nice, gentle and kind towards everyone else and the author really builds a story around him including his past. The first things we know about John-Michael is that he has a bad relationship with his now dead father and that it really bothers him a lot. This tension will really make him feel bad at times and makes him close off for others about himself, but he'll still be there when others need him. Things get really interesting for John-Michael and for the readers since we don't know everything and a lot about his secret will be revealed in the book. I think his secret is pretty amazing and well build so you won't be disappointed at the end. Especially because a long lost person will come to visit him which makes it even more thrilling! A very interesting plotline he has!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for the plot I have to be honest in the beginning it was very confusing. The book has these six plotlines which isn't really the problem but there's another plotline I can't tell more about. The thing it that coming into the book and having no clue at all, it got really confusing because you didn't know anything about anyone. Others can and probably will say this isn't confusing but building up the mystery, which I really agree on. For me it just became a little much to comprehend next to the other six main character's that are revealing their secrets as well in the beginning. So that's a little downside to the book, although the start was confusing things will get really clear even before half the book and that really made things a lot better for me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As I did mention it can be seen as building up the mystery which this book really has a lot of. Although I'm not that into mystery this book really made me love it in a way I never thought I could. The fact that each of them has a secret and none of them are clearly in the picture for the readers really builds up the tension and mystery during the book. Especially because some characters are more related to each other than others and some aren't who they say they are. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Of course the fact that each of them has this secret they're protecting with their life really builds up tension between the characters and makes sure some relationships work better than others, also their personalities make sure that some work better and some just don't kick it off. I really loved how the characters and their secrets had such influence on their relationships.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Also since the tension and their relationships toward each other, the house screams drama. I have to say I'm not much into drama reads but this wasn't over the top and was also very understanding since you're in each persons head most of the time. You really see everyone's perspective and understand their point of view towards each other or towards a subject. Therefore the drama wasn't anything that bothered me at all but really added to the plotline.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Main thing in this book will of course be the secrets and I was happily to start figuring them out without being confused and start to unravel each mystery with the characters. Some things even seemed so obvious than others and then you're all wrong and so on, for short the book will keep making you guess and it'll never bore you at all! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Regardless of the few remarks I had this book was absolutely surprising as I had never expected it to like it as much as I did! Although<span style="background-color: white;"> not all the characters were that well visualized, other that were I was a great fan of since they were well written and well thought of as they will play a major role in the next couple of books. I absolutely felt the drama and feelings the characters were going through and it all really added to their personalities. The fact that many characters don't seem like they really are also kept me on my toes and on the lookout for new clues to their personality! I really like the characters and how they create the environment around them, although I wished some characters should've been more in the spotlight! As for the plot in the beginning I did find it very confusing but that's a big asset to the mystery that's being created. I did really love the mystery and all the drama the plot had to offer, the confusion was a bit big on my part which is a pity. Overall, I really enjoyed this book better than I had expected and it really left me wanting for more!</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: orange; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>"Six teens legally liberated from parental control for six different reasons, all with one thing in common: something to hide."</b></span></span></div>
Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Venice, Los Angeles, Californië, Verenigde Staten33.9850469 -118.4694832000000133.9323829 -118.55016420000001 34.0377109 -118.38880220000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-86683080998917949472017-08-09T12:00:00.000+02:002017-08-09T12:00:09.789+02:00Anticipated releases!<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As always summer makes me more eager to read, especially because most days I'm working! So not a lot of the days are over to get a lot of reading done, because then you're just so tired as well... You know the drill! Even though I can't read a lot right now, I'm really looking forward to two books that will be releasing in the next coming time! Both feel like a big summer read but one isn't coming out until 2018! Sad face... Here are my <b><span style="color: orange;">anticipated releases</span></b>!</span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Just Friends by Tiffany Pitcock</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Release date: 1st august 2017</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I might never have read anything by this author, the cover and the synopsis just really make me feel like this needs to be read during summer. I'm in luck, it gets released this summer in August so I will be able to read it this summer and feel absolutely great about it! </span><br />
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<b style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Jenny meets Chance for the very first time when she is assigned as his partner in their Junior Oral Communications class. But after they rescue a doomed assignment with one clever lie, the whole school is suddenly convinced that Little-Miss-Really-Likes-Having-A’s and the most scandalous heartbreaker in school have been best friends forever. It’s amazing how quickly a lie can grow―especially when you really, really want it to be the truth.</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">With Jenny, Chance can live the normal life he’s always kind of wanted. And with Chance, Jenny can have the exciting teen experiences that TV shows and movies have always promised. Through it all, they hold on to the fact that they are “just friends.” But that might be the biggest lie of all.</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I also just read that the author is a debut author which makes this release even more exciting! I'm always on the lookout for new authors that present a first book. It's nice finding new ones because it means a new writing style and who knows maybe a new favorite author!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Also the story just gives me amazing vibes and who doesn't love to read something like this? It's a classic romantic one so I'm hoping that it'll get a twist anyway and maybe a bit of drama. For short I'm just really, really excited about the book and I can't wait to get it in my hands. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Love & Luck by Jenna Evans Welch</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Release date: 1st May 2018</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A little downside to the book: we need to wait another year before we can get this book! Nevertheless am I absolutely thrilled for this one! Last year Jenna Evens Welch brought her first book<i> Love & Gelato</i> which I fell in love with the moment I saw the cover.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A few of you might remember that I wanted to take this book with me on my trip to Italy because the characters were based there but that the release was postponed to a later date and I had to leave without the book. I read the book when I got home and boy, I <i>loved </i>it! This book has so much thrill and romance and a beautiful written description about the city that it was hard not to love. Of course I just had been to Italy and I had seen the beautiful piazza's which added a lot to my imagination in the book.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This time around the author will do something similar but in another city and with another background story! I'm already very excited for this as the cover is very close to <i>Love & Gelato</i>'s so that makes it even more thrilling in my opinion.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span id="freeText1822149855005280559" style="background-color: white;">Addie is visiting Ireland for her aunt’s over-the-top destination wedding, and hoping she can stop thinking about the one horrible thing she did that left her miserable and heartbroken—and threatens her future. But her brother, Ian, isn’t about to let her forget, and his constant needling leads to arguments and even a fistfight between the two once inseparable siblings. Miserable, Addie can’t wait to visit her friend in Italy and leave her brother—and her problems—behind.</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br />So when Addie discovers an unusual guidebook, <i>Ireland for the Heartbroken,</i> hidden in the dusty shelves of the hotel library, she’s able to finally escape her anxious mind and Ian’s criticism.<br /><br />And then their travel plans change. Suddenly Addie finds herself on a whirlwind tour of the Emerald Isle, trapped in the world’s smallest vehicle with Ian and his admittedly cute, Irish-accented friend Rowan. As the trio journeys over breathtaking green hills, past countless castles, and through a number of fairy-tale forests, Addie hopes her guidebook will heal not only her broken heart, but also her shattered relationship with her brother.<br /><br />That is if they don’t get completely lost along the way.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span></b><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I'm already so excited to visit Ireland through the eyes of the characters, and through the eyes of the author. I really love her writing style and it was also very easy to read in <i>Love & Gelato</i> so I'm hoping that this won't be any different. I really loved the author's first book so my expectations are high!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">If you're interested in reading my review on the first book by Jenna Evans Welch, the review on Love & Gelato is <a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2016/07/summer-read-of-july-love-gelato.html">HERE</a>! It was my summer read of July 2016 so it's absolutely a recommendation to read during summer!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Those are the two books with summer-y feeling that will be released in the next couple time (ugh year!) that I'm really looking forward to! Hopefully I can read both during summer as I know this will add more to the feels while I read. I do wonder if I'll be able to contain myself for a month with<i> Love & Luck</i> since it comes out May but it's not summer yet... we'll have to see!</span></span><br />
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<br />Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com09060 Zelzate, België51.1987114 3.811977200000001251.1589114 3.731296200000001 51.2385114 3.8926582000000014tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-74270992164286444392017-08-02T12:00:00.000+02:002017-08-02T12:00:18.501+02:00Tell me three things<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Time for a book by a new author and also a book that I <i>really </i>enjoyed! It took me one day and a half to finish this one because it was such a huge page turner. I already finished 200 pages on the first day, if I wasn't tired I would've probably finished it in one sitting. A recommendation for this summer: <b><span style="color: orange;">Tell me three things by Julie Buxbaum</span></b>!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI68zY9E0GDrQgBmmzVW_XRabP2JGMIhxzYTvlFdlTeSpIgRu03p_IarT2ftWvfz_76JQ-U5Pyc7xpCyDpYIXfz-bcuW0DeL54g-s3t_5KPL_WcaolYzlUbTDBdUlAFejfz7cL4gt0bZlt/s1600/33.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="598" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI68zY9E0GDrQgBmmzVW_XRabP2JGMIhxzYTvlFdlTeSpIgRu03p_IarT2ftWvfz_76JQ-U5Pyc7xpCyDpYIXfz-bcuW0DeL54g-s3t_5KPL_WcaolYzlUbTDBdUlAFejfz7cL4gt0bZlt/s320/33.png" width="319" /></a><b style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">Moving across the country, Jessie has to adjust to a new lifestyle of rich snobs and high expectations. Not feeling like she belongs anywhere, Jessie eats all by herself on the new school, and getting support from her new stepbrother is nothing she needs to wait on. It isn't until an unexpected mail that Jessie understands someone has been watching her very closely. Calling himself <i>SN</i>, he guides Jessie in school situations while keeping his anonymity. She finds herself swooning for him very soon as SN is starting to become bigger part of her life and someone she feels comfortable with and can relate to. But then there's Ethan Marks who made a very good first impression on her... Fighting against the feelings she has, Jessie will have to pick. Before deciding anything she thinks it's time for her and the famous SN to finally meet... </b><br />
<b style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"><br /></b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">First of all there's Jessie! I have to say I was absolutely stunned reading her part in this book. She's a very sweet girl, very open towards others but then there's also her being so shy which makes it even more difficult for her. It's clear from the start that Jessie has a hard time adjusting to her new life style as her head keeps going back to past events and memories of where she used to live. People at school also don't make it easy for her and she doesn't make it easy for them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">At some point in the book we really see how vulnerable but strong this character is. She might have been making friends, especially with the help of the all too famous SN, there are also enemies. I think that's a very relatable aspect in the story as well, the people who you don't get along with or that will judge you the moment you arrive. Soon we see that she's having some bullies and I really loved how we saw Jessie grow and be strong for herself. It was relatable and a amazing role model for a lot of people out there.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In general I have to say I really loved this character since she has a realatable character and background story for I bet a lot of people out there. She also grew a lot during this book and shows how something bad can turn into something brighter. The only remark I have in this character was the fact that she was sometimes a little bit too consumed by her own situation and own thoughts which made sure that she sometimes forgot about the others around her. Other than that I loved to read in her perspective! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Another character I want to discuss is this SN person. I'm a sucker for books like this: the anonymity of well... kinda a savior! I absolutely loved this SN person. From page one we know it's also a guy which really made me excited to find out how the bond between our main character and SN would become during the book. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">SN really is somewhat a savior as he really pays attention to Jessie and also looks out for her from afar. The representation we get from him in the mails is also a very caring guy that wants to meet Jessie but is scared to. I guess that also made sure that we stayed excited for SN and also got a soft spot for him. In general this character was very well written even though we only see him in the mails during the book which I think is a very big asset to this book. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUEchmQtWSvT2VJIIKDiS10-HFlG7lmjPM0Xmq2L9jAjXpgmtWm-7kMIAiKflq8TWk40GygOBFnjswWD_yTbLhQfvI-Akm6pbPlKq5KiQOgWlp3od_5O-LOrOdFAP_mgXoYfAUFOmC7CO/s1600/3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="596" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUEchmQtWSvT2VJIIKDiS10-HFlG7lmjPM0Xmq2L9jAjXpgmtWm-7kMIAiKflq8TWk40GygOBFnjswWD_yTbLhQfvI-Akm6pbPlKq5KiQOgWlp3od_5O-LOrOdFAP_mgXoYfAUFOmC7CO/s320/3.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Even though we only see him in the mails, I think we get a very good picture of how this character is or may be in real life and that made sure that our speculations could begin. The biggest question always is do we even know who SN is? The author might just make him a character that will never be spoken about next to the mails... I really adored reading SN's mails and also really enjoyed him as a person too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for the plot I have to say this is a 9 out of 10 for the level of swoon-worthy! This damn book got FEELS! I love it when books make me feel this deeply and <i>Tell me three things</i> is absolutely one of those books. There's also so much more next to love affairs that Jessie is going to encounter in this book. I mean, Jessie has so many problems and drama around her head at home but also at her new school and also at her hometown where she will be going back to during the book. The author really played this book on so many different levels and aspects it never got boring and just stayed interesting to read. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As I already mentioned before this book is a huge page turner, which has to do with the fact that there are so many facets to this book but also because of the thrill and excitement about SN. Even though I wished to see even more of SN through mails I was very satisfied with him and so excited to know who this person would be and if we'd ever know. The anonymity this character brings so much more to the general plotline because he's everywhere and nowhere at the same time, only communicating with mails. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The best part yet is that we can speculate as much as we want as we'll see different guys through the book and get hints from SN about who or how he could possibly be in real life. The speculations also make sure that we stay excited and pay close attention to all behavior from our men in this book! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Although I have to say when you passed half the book, it seems a little bit predictable to who it might be and that's something I really found a sad thing. The author could have used SN for so much longer if she could have kept up the anonymity but on that part I think the book got a little too obvious and a little too expecting. Not that I minded it that much, I still was really excited and still am really in love with this book! I just think that it got predictable which is just a bummer when you've been speculating and being excited for so long during the book and then just know before the very end!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">At last there's the title that's being used in the book and got me very excited!<i> Tell me three things </i>is sort of like a game between Jessie and SN where they each tell each other three random things. I found this also one of the things that made the book very cute and adorable but also very excited because it had hints of who SN might be. Overall I think that was just such a cute thing in this book that showed how close SN and Jessie really are but also showed us more about their personalities which was an asset in my opinion. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Oh and not to spoil anything at all but because of all situations Jessie has been in and who she all met with or without the help of her friend SN, Jessie will find her in better situations but also make new harder situations for herself. This is the part where Jessie will have to use her strong personality traits to make decisions and man, we won't be disappointed. I really loved how the author made this somewhat predictable ending funny by a little twist!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6CngxPVODxN60NDwM2P9xGQ3-6xrUlPc6_q3A3sXFoU46b6sjiY9_1Nh12XY-vOdZBXz4wqEuAfaIWvOb6OcpO-PI7ebk6BUbDURPGEc5E-KA77Xe_yHtpBwP4edXoEIav9yR5J2Qmt1/s1600/IMG_8476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6CngxPVODxN60NDwM2P9xGQ3-6xrUlPc6_q3A3sXFoU46b6sjiY9_1Nh12XY-vOdZBXz4wqEuAfaIWvOb6OcpO-PI7ebk6BUbDURPGEc5E-KA77Xe_yHtpBwP4edXoEIav9yR5J2Qmt1/s320/IMG_8476.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Overall this book has really surprised me but also really made me excited. Julie Buxbaum really concentrated on many aspects of life which made sure that the book was equally balanced and also stayed really interesting. On top of that the book is really swoon-worthy and very cute which makes it the perfect read for this summer. The only aspects that were kinda sad or disappointing were that it was a bit predictable near the second half of the book and also that our main character was sometimes self-absorbed which made her forget about everyone else while her character isn't like that at all! I was really excited to find out who SN was and what he'd become in Jessie's life and how he had an impact on this character. Both of them really connected which was amazing to see. And as far as I can tell here are 3 things: (1) this book was so cute! (2) it's a huge recommendation (3) tell me three things!</span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">"Perfect days are for people with small, realisable dreams. </span><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Or maybe for all of us, they just happen in retrospect;"</span></b></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Californië, Verenigde Staten36.778261 -119.4179323999999823.886426 -140.07222939999997 49.670096 -98.763635399999984tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-37027745958891130652017-07-26T12:00:00.000+02:002017-07-26T12:00:13.351+02:00Book Haul<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Ha! It's been a long, long time since I've done another book haul so I thought why not? In the past few months I've bought a total of 5 books and then of course there were all the books I got for my birthday which you can find on my post about <a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2017/03/birthday-haul.html">my Birthday haul</a>! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The first load of books are books I bought on Amazon! As you might have read in an earlier post, I had a hard time finding out how to buy from Amazon, but found a loophole. Luckily! After my first time buying from Amazon, I ordered other books there as well.</span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Ceaseless and predestined by Abbi Glines</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">My first time ordering there I bought <b><i>Existence by Abbi Glines</i></b>. I could only find the series up there because it wasn't available anywhere else. I had my eyes on this series for a very, <i>very </i>long time and finally I could read them! After seeing if I was still interested in the series after I read the first book, I ordered the others! Here is the synopsis of the first book, Existence:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLsBXaY9A1r3xIoxCJs7k8XgBsTzke7vcGFtsGXJ_8vapQGjO9fNenky9OMyHuHWIbPaUyLvm_9JO_eDLvHiv3RvlXelNTJlduINcvUsKUIQlRiSjhLqqc6QiVu6ZTk-9R9_b-vHAp317X/s1600/IMG_8472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLsBXaY9A1r3xIoxCJs7k8XgBsTzke7vcGFtsGXJ_8vapQGjO9fNenky9OMyHuHWIbPaUyLvm_9JO_eDLvHiv3RvlXelNTJlduINcvUsKUIQlRiSjhLqqc6QiVu6ZTk-9R9_b-vHAp317X/s320/IMG_8472.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<b style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: 16px;">Pagan isn't any normal girl, aside from going to school and doing homework she sees things nobody else sees. And she shouldn't be able to see the things she sees:<i>souls</i>. None of the souls give her any attention, and she doesn't give them any attention either. One day, that all changes when one of them starts staring at her and eventually starts talking to her. Trying to ignore him, Pagan can't do anything else but start getting attached to the soul. But he is nowhere near a soul...</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I have to say that my expectations were really high and I was a little disappointed. Nonetheless I decided that I really wanted to read the rest of series and see if it gets any better. I've been waiting to read this series for such a long time so I wasn't ready to give it up! </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>REVIEW ON EXISTENCE <a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2017/05/existence.html">HERE</a>!</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: orange; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>The Struggle by Jennifer L. Armentrout</b></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">While I was ordering there I decided that I was going to pre-order 3rd book in the Titan-series by Jennifer L. Armentrout. Many of you know by now how much I love Jennifer L. Armentrout and how in love I am with the Titan-series! So of course I pre-ordered this book! </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">For everyone who doesn't know what the heck I'm talking about, the Titan-series is a sequel to the Covenant-series by Armentrout. It's a series that gives us a look in Seth's life and my god, do I <i>love </i>it! A short synopsis of the first book in the Titan-series <b><i>The Return </i></b>so I don't spoil you guys for book 3...</span></span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 16px;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It's been a year since Seth made a deal with all Gods, getting on his knees and pledging his life to them. Now he's theirs, he gets all sorts of assignments but most are violent and bloody. Apollo now has something else in mind for him. This assignment will be more difficult for Seth because he has to keep his hands to himself. That's kind of difficult for a guy that doesn't understand the word 'restraint'. </span></i></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv0Mjj07JYX9ZkrPxMAKTAKaoWgFssnpbn0AZksTe_QvuNx0uxsm2rCKwV6cjHqhWD5IxpRwgguJAcKa2mfklP9UJ6LD8XDoyIR5Arp5eujAibi-TkpfqKbG62ixhXCtx1p2PG-VSA8Mj9/s1600/IMG_8474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv0Mjj07JYX9ZkrPxMAKTAKaoWgFssnpbn0AZksTe_QvuNx0uxsm2rCKwV6cjHqhWD5IxpRwgguJAcKa2mfklP9UJ6LD8XDoyIR5Arp5eujAibi-TkpfqKbG62ixhXCtx1p2PG-VSA8Mj9/s320/IMG_8474.JPG" width="320" /></a><b style="background-color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 16px;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></i></b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 16px;"></span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 16px;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Josie on the other hand doesn't know what's going on. Her mother is sick and she's doing everything to understand how it all works. Hoping to help others and help them understand. That is until her world get's overthrown by the ancient myth. Starting with meeting the golden-eye, mysterious Seth she thinks is kind of attractive. </span></i></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 16px;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></i></b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times new roman" , "times" , "freeserif" , serif; font-size: 16px;"></span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 16px;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Together they get dumped into a story of danger, discovery and even forgiveness and redemption. For Seth this journey will be challenging, for Josie this journey will be discovering. But it might be the unlikely attraction simmering between her and secret-keeping Seth that may prove to be the most dangerous thing of all. </span></i></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">As far as I know this series has 4 books, the 4th coming in March 2018! I can't really say anything bad about this series. It contains everything to write a good book: feelings and action. The author makes sure that there are so many plot twists so every book still has this unique thing they concentrate on while fighting something on a bigger scale that comes to all books in the series. It's just such a big variety in situations that happen it really never gets boring. Then again who gets boring from Seth? Not me. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">This is really one of the series I absolutely recommend but I also recommend reading it <i>after </i>the Covenant-series since you'll spoil yourself if you read Seth's story first. Other than that: PICK THIS SERIES! You won't regret it.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>REVIEW ON THE RETURN <a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2016/02/the-return.html">HERE</a>!</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>REVIEW ON THE POWER <a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2016/10/the-power.html">HERE</a>!</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>REVIEW ON THE STRUGGLE COMING SOON!</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: orange; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Tell me three things by Julie Buxbaum</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">The last book I bought on Amazon was Tell me three things by Julie Buxbaum. I never heard of this book before or saw it on Goodreads until I watched Jesse on Youtube. He had the book in a haul of his if I'm correct, and it really spoke to me. I just really needed it. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">In comparison to the other books I bought, this is a more realistic one and also one I already read and loved! This book doesn't have anything paranormal but it does have secrecy and really had me excited...</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijR6TeB-cfkqtobxjEJEO8tzBgWDO4etFNnJRL90mw6cjds3IRzenyoAnP6tHK4Uph1arr5UeJN6_WQBTc1I_G0PEiTwjshq2vRXK5KjCy313w7MitbqZDQUoEKPVrTR8Hitt5LUKgSsnd/s1600/IMG_8476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijR6TeB-cfkqtobxjEJEO8tzBgWDO4etFNnJRL90mw6cjds3IRzenyoAnP6tHK4Uph1arr5UeJN6_WQBTc1I_G0PEiTwjshq2vRXK5KjCy313w7MitbqZDQUoEKPVrTR8Hitt5LUKgSsnd/s320/IMG_8476.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Moving across the country, Jessie has to adjust to a new lifestyle of rich snobs and high expectations. Not feeling like she belongs anywhere, Jessie eats all by herself on the new school, and getting support from her new stepbrother is nothing she needs to wait on. It isn't until an unexpected mail that Jessie understands someone has been watching her very closely. Calling himself <i>SN</i>, he guides Jessie in school situations while keeping his anonymity. She finds herself swooning for him very soon as SN is starting to become bigger part of her life and someone she feels comfortable with and can relate to. But then there's Ethan Marks who made a very good first impression on her... Fighting against the feelings she has, Jessie will have to pick. Before deciding anything she thinks it's time for her and the famous SN to finally meet... </b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">This. Book. It has so much suspicion I read the first 200 pages in one day! I needed to know who this SN person was and I needed to know it fast. This book is a real page turner because it'll keep giving information about the person and you won't be able to contain yourself! The will to find out who it is, is very strong!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Next to the fact that you want (no, need) to know who this SN person is, you'll really be able to enjoy reading this book because of how Jessie is now growing and trying to adjust to her new lifestyle that also contains bullies. I absolutely loved having this suspicious SN part in the book as well as seeing her handle new things while she's feeling homesick. The main character really was to die for and I absolutely loved reading this book so much. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">The only thing that disappointed me a bit was the fact that I felt it was a bit predictable. And I'm talking about the SN part, reading the first 200 pages of course you built a list of who it might be. However I really knew who it was as well halfway through the book, a little disappointed that it was so predictable but nonetheless I really loved reading this book and enjoyed every feeling in it! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">REVIEW ON TELL ME THREE THINGS COMING SOON!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Hidden by Marianne Curley</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">At the end of June there's also this big book feast in Ghent. In the previous years on my blog, I talked about this before as well as posted the book hauls from it! This year I went again but I didn't really find a lot of books that I wanted. Some I even had already! I did find a lot of children's books which was a good thing, but for YA and English reads I didn't find a lot.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">In fact I only found one book! I was doubting if I should take it but after running around the place once again, my mind kept going back to it! Of course this is an Angel-themed book, I can already guess it which is also why I couldn't leave it behind. Everyone who's been around here for a while knows how much I love books that have angels in them and so I took this beauty with me!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="background-color: white;">For as long as Ebony can remember, she's been sheltered. Confined to her home in a secluded valley, home-schooled by her protective parents, and limited to a small circle of close friends. It's as if she's being hidden. But something is changing in Ebony. Something that can't be concealed. She's growing more beautiful by the day, she's freakishly strong, and then there's the fact that she's </span><i style="background-color: white;">glowing</i><span style="background-color: white;">.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">On one fateful night, Ebony meets Jordan and she's intensely drawn to him. It's as if something explodes inside of her--something that can be seen from the heavens. Ebony still doesn't know that she's a stolen angel, but now that the heavens have found her, they want her back.</span></b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmngrPBCkLMY8to2v69YpeMo6eiLWIq2iUml3_wCGDfDy1vin1WVBZP_oh3dHsfQlY_a90lVeAL11PJrkq3Mm8D678q8uhGqvbGJpnKca7hTDx7-xWqqcjIWPMNaTryHC1rL4gw5H03MV/s1600/Naamloos.pnghidden.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="597" data-original-width="599" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmngrPBCkLMY8to2v69YpeMo6eiLWIq2iUml3_wCGDfDy1vin1WVBZP_oh3dHsfQlY_a90lVeAL11PJrkq3Mm8D678q8uhGqvbGJpnKca7hTDx7-xWqqcjIWPMNaTryHC1rL4gw5H03MV/s320/Naamloos.pnghidden.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">I don't know a lot about the book or author, never read a book by her before. I did find out through Goodreads that it's a series of 3 and yes, maybe I couldn't contain myself to read the synopsis of the second book... and third. Although it's only a 3,46 on Goodreads, I'm having high expectations to find out how much I'll enjoy this book! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">And that concludes my book haul featuring all the books I recently bought! Of all the books I bought I already read two of them and those reviews will be posted online in the next few weeks, so stay tuned...</span></span><br />
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Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Gent, België51.0543422 3.717424299999947850.7351412 3.071977299999948 51.3735432 4.3628712999999477tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-67754568364596224092017-07-19T12:00:00.000+02:002017-07-19T12:00:25.173+02:00My first poem book | Love & space dust <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Something I'm absolutely thrilled about is that I took a book that wasn't YA-themed at all! This book has been on a special place in my heart ever since I came across it and also was <i>very </i>hard to find! However I did just finish it and I have to say... I'm in love! My ever first poem book: <b><span style="color: orange;">Love & Space dust by David Jones</span></b>!</span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">"And in the end we are nothing more than love and space dust." Timeless poetry of feeling and emotion, Love & Space Dust carries readers on a journey through love, life and relationships, and then far beyond, into the stars and the far flung galaxies, where all that remains of the feelings we once felt and the lives we once lived is love and space dust.</b><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Even though this is something I can't talk about a lot, I still wanted to post a little review on it because it's really something I feel needs to be read more! In my opinion it's a little bit underrated while it should be read by a lot more people. Especially because it has all these different facets and view on the themes!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As I already announced it's a poem book, and it's also my first ever poem book! The first time I came across poems from this book was on Tumblr. I remember hearting this post with a lot of quotes from it and reading that it was from that book. It wasn't until now, a few years later, that I really felt the need to read this book and all it's hidden secrets written in words and so my journey began...</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Because finding this book was not an easy thing!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Eventually I found the book on Amazon, but we can't buy on Amazon so it was a whole disappointment! Until I found a loophole! It made sure I could buy this book and another book that was only available on Amazon! Using giftcards I bought online I eventually got the books in my mailbox! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>Love & Space</i> dust was the book I started reading the same night it arrived. I wanted to take it very slow as this is my first poem book and I just wanted to be sure that I understood and really felt each and every word that was written in it.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">And dammit I loved this book! It might seem like a very thin book, but there are so many quotes in it and each word meant something for me and it was a pleasure to try and figure out what the author meant by them. As the synopsis on <i>Goodreads </i>says the poems are each so differently from each other and have a big variety in theme: love, life, relationship, and far beyond about galaxies and stars! Above that each of these themes are being talked about in different perspectives which makes some of them more relatable than others but still... relatable or not each of them is just beautifully written and really touched my soul!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljz_cs-NH_0tA__1FntKwHhBoUWAbLOQ70gY1Bf91OUcOf4FLzCS9nd2pHZDAITDI6sYF-GLtv3W4oR8kNTa49GRHSjOrNSdkKAisct9y2WIVHf4rsBsoypICOcniWGXG4fDIc4Zr_y4k/s1600/IMG_8470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljz_cs-NH_0tA__1FntKwHhBoUWAbLOQ70gY1Bf91OUcOf4FLzCS9nd2pHZDAITDI6sYF-GLtv3W4oR8kNTa49GRHSjOrNSdkKAisct9y2WIVHf4rsBsoypICOcniWGXG4fDIc4Zr_y4k/s320/IMG_8470.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">I really recommend this book if you're looking for a read that touches your heart with only a number of words. I also recommend it just because it's so beautiful yet so underrated so if you ever come across from it: pick it up! And see for yourself if you'd enjoy it just as much as I did! David Jones brings a lot of quotes that are each so different and look at a theme in a different perspective which makes sure that there will be a lot of quotes that you can relate to so much! </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">My first poem book was a huge success! I'm already looking forward to reading others in the future and discover the meaning behind the author's words and feeling it right in my heart! </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: orange; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>"We are nothing but // Space dust // Trying to find // Its way back to // The stars."</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com09060 Zelzate, België51.1987114 3.811977200000001251.1987114 3.8119772000000012 51.1987114 3.8119772000000012tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-60972953619985039452017-07-12T12:00:00.000+02:002017-07-12T12:00:21.774+02:00The Problem with Forever<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It took me <i>two months</i> to finish this book and <i>no </i>it was not the book's fault. School has been really asking a lot of attention as I had my internship and then got into my exams so I haven't had a lot of time to read... That's why it also took me two months to finish this one. It's a real pity because this book actually is a page turner full of amazing facets of our lives. I have to say it: Jennifer L. Armentrout, you did it once <i>again</i>! <b><span style="color: orange;">The Problem with Forever by Jennifer L. Armentrout</span></b>.</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWrBvShW9goKsZGue5dZGknIjDeNO29uSbfynxedUKAhNeBoM7Rt7aDiRlO1BXfuL8ZiN1fl3c3QjQMcnrLibWtkcG-mkObg-7pIg6ggL2Mx31FUaCUO0En1ICLlkGOWUuzUGTLgQGo5Se/s1600/IMG_7961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWrBvShW9goKsZGue5dZGknIjDeNO29uSbfynxedUKAhNeBoM7Rt7aDiRlO1BXfuL8ZiN1fl3c3QjQMcnrLibWtkcG-mkObg-7pIg6ggL2Mx31FUaCUO0En1ICLlkGOWUuzUGTLgQGo5Se/s320/IMG_7961.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Mallory is not a big talker, she never has been. From an early age she learned to be silent and not be heard. That's until she's adopted and out of the hellhole she used to be in. Now ready to take a new step on her path, Mallory goes to a public school where she re-encounters someone from the past. </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>From that moment on Mallory wants to fight harder against getting past her past and doesn't want to be stuck with her demons. The person who changed her life is with her once again making her feel strong. And this time around, Mallory hopes he'll stay forever. But sometimes forever is a lie...</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This is my first book by Jennifer L. Armentrout that doesn't have any mythical creatures! I know, I'm shocked as well but for some reason I was just really intrigued and before you know it you have the book... it goes as fast as that. Also I was a bit scared that my expectations I had by Jennifer L. Armentrout wouldn't be fulfilled as this is something totally different from what I'm used to but damn... I'm still in love with her books! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Especially because of the main character Mallory. I'm a sucker for books that have people in them that have a hard time or had a hard past. Mallory is one of those characters which made it very easy for me to get into the book and absolutely fall in love with the character.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Mallory is a very strong character in that way that she comes off very insecure and silent, because she doesn't know any better. Still when it comes to it can really stand up for herself. She's really learned from her past, even though she's still struggling with it and you really see her grow and become the woman she's always destined to be. I absolutely loved to see that happen with this character because you really were there to witness it and to see her grow into a very confident woman.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">And it isn't all solved in this book. Mallory has had such a hard past and has been struggling so much with it, I'd find it really weird if it was solved immediately. Jennifer L. Armentrout therefore makes a really good vision of how the past can influence you and how much work it needs to be solved. The growth we see in Mallory is outstanding but she's still very realistic when it comes to her past and her being in it. She's still a work in process and I'm glad that the author made us realize that and stayed so close to that as I feel like that's a realistic thing. Nothing is solved in a few weeks. I really appreciated that as well. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In general Mallory really is a gentle character who is really open for everyone around her and is prepared to give everyone chances. She's also a very loving and grateful person which made it very easy to relate to and also very pleasant to read. I really don't have any bad things to say to this character. She's realistic, she's well written and she's intriguing, what else do you need?</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">And then there's Rider. A boy I bet all girls are swooning for. A boy with a big heart. A boy who is just as lost as Mallory. I dammit <i>loved </i>him! He seems like the typical high school boy, very cool and attractive but when we look closer to him he has so many qualities that make him stand out. As always Jennifer L. Armentrout knows how to bring us a character that's still very unique and yet very relatable. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu66Fzs27p55q1zLiR7G2qzHs394k-su3GB-y3FofjnR1c36h-Lnno1tdcCI4HfNsQ54GIhEhaarFaat64RTMwK1lcaupW15fTgaIZsgqmXlpBVvs_05wlegf-bT7yu4Zb99elGCXVNhfc/s1600/p.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="597" data-original-width="598" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu66Fzs27p55q1zLiR7G2qzHs394k-su3GB-y3FofjnR1c36h-Lnno1tdcCI4HfNsQ54GIhEhaarFaat64RTMwK1lcaupW15fTgaIZsgqmXlpBVvs_05wlegf-bT7yu4Zb99elGCXVNhfc/s320/p.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">What was really noticeable with Rider was very selfless. He was always wondering how others were, always noticing things from others and always there with a good piece of advice for others. In the beginning Rider stays a big question mark for us, we barely knew him and how he was handling his life. That also made sure that we really stayed curious to this character as we saw a lot of positive traits developing and see how much he cares about others.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Of course this selflessness and insecurities (which yes he has!) will make sure that he forgets about himself and that's when the reader finally notices the little things that are Rider his imperfections. His selflessness will eventually eat away at himself because he doesn't take care of himself. When we finally notice what's going on with Rider, so do the other characters and they will finally make him realize what's important and that's also the trigger for Rider. From that moment on we see him grow and become a little more self-conscious. It's truly a beautiful thing to see happening and of course will lead to a lot of things...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for the plot this was a typical story yet still so special. A boy, a girl, they meet and they get along what more do we need? This story alone would be swoon worthy but of course our dear author made sure a lot of other interesting plots will happen.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">My first opinion about this story is that it was very realistic. Looking at all other books I read by Jennifer L. Armentrout, which is logical I mean the books only had aliens and gods! However this story just really shows a development of teenage lives and the struggles that come along. A bit of drama, a bit of love and a bit of danger! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Of course the drama and love will be things were all of us can relate. We all know the mixed feelings and the feelings of love and the author does a very great job with portraying those for us in a normal teenage and school context. What I also really loved about this book was the fact that there is adoption in it and how that plays out with the characters. Reading how that has developed and how much impact it really had on them, especially because of the hard past that's going to be a big influence on the relationship, made this even more interesting.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for the danger well, this book puts a light onto the fact that some kids get caught in risky business and how that can influence themselves but also the ones around them. This really lead us to the author making this a big deal in the plot and also giving us a very big surprise near the end which sets also something in motion for Rider! I love how all of this was first something separate but at the end started to click together to form a big story that's setting in motion different things. It really made it coherent. And of course this danger also gave a lot more feels and a lot more thrill to the typical lover story. And so the author gives us, once again, an amazing story from beginning to end! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Another thing and last thing I'd like to remark is that I really loved the vibe of trial and error in this book. Since our main character is starting over with a new family and has had a very tough past where silence was her only weapon, Mallory wants to try and be better and do better. This will lead to a lot of <i>awkward </i>situations but also a lot of situation that we'll feel so proud on. She's really trying it out and if it doesn't work, she tries again. Just as all of us are doing in life, Mallory keeps doing it better every time and I really loved to see that in this story and come back in a lot of situations.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlr7QH1J0F9x81z6B96fdPB64ShKeVHEPOezskLpYaMr9Y1xxichGHnJ9UIqbno_8-0HNrm6wKtQqWaILrw2JxE_P_CIXvsdL_ZI7rkPa7PD40YxxlDkf09VDxFs1Is-KbJ2V2wyR4zbD/s1600/pp.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="477" data-original-width="480" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlr7QH1J0F9x81z6B96fdPB64ShKeVHEPOezskLpYaMr9Y1xxichGHnJ9UIqbno_8-0HNrm6wKtQqWaILrw2JxE_P_CIXvsdL_ZI7rkPa7PD40YxxlDkf09VDxFs1Is-KbJ2V2wyR4zbD/s320/pp.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Absolutely waw. And Jennifer L. Armentrout does it once again! This is the first time I've read one of her books that don't contain any mythical characters, but real characters that go through life. And what a life they have. I was absolutely intrigued by every character in this story as it shows so many realities at once that are all unique and influenced by one another. I absolutely loved to be in the head of our main character Mallory as she's trying to figure out what her forever is and what the past means to her. This book is absolutely amazing and yes, contains cuteness all over the place. But the most important thing is the lesson that Jennifer L. Armentrout wrote down for us. I wish this book could go on Forever but this book doesn't last Forever... I'm happy with it though. It's a real page turner with every facet of our lives. Once again, a great book by one of my favorite authors!</span> </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: orange; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">“Forever was something we all took for granted, but the problem with forever was that it really didn't exist.” </span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com09060 Zelzate, België51.1987114 3.811977200000001240.9822314 -16.8423198 61.4151914 24.4662742tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-82437189257024565732017-07-05T12:00:00.000+02:002017-07-05T12:00:10.607+02:00We All Looked Up<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">You guys, the book I'll be reviewing today contains so much hope and has such a good content I actually might faint because of it. This was so unexpected! A book I bet a lot of people would absolutely enjoy: <span style="color: #351c75;"><b>We All Looked Up by Tommy Wallach</b></span>. I am so happy to review this book!</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTd-FLPhWE0ZEgnn0nUiTUd5FscYMl8yLuUNUWQI0n9ZJYuERvXSkRcFeJG2lP2rf7CqSMOS05wXF7KpAbyfHw2mDyvsRMMLR1jjSAkFe_bANZoGl3lh6GzO1TTa3QiDM5bCFv43W9Gd_C/s1600/pl.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTd-FLPhWE0ZEgnn0nUiTUd5FscYMl8yLuUNUWQI0n9ZJYuERvXSkRcFeJG2lP2rf7CqSMOS05wXF7KpAbyfHw2mDyvsRMMLR1jjSAkFe_bANZoGl3lh6GzO1TTa3QiDM5bCFv43W9Gd_C/s320/pl.png" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Two months. That's how long everyone on earth has before an asteroid crashes down onto them and kills everyone on it. Two months to do what you always wanted to do now you still can. For some that means loving, for others that means making music, everyone has two months to find their purpose and to fulfill it. Two months of really living. Two months to really feel alive.</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This book has amazing characters that undergo such huge changes and that all because of this asteroid! I absolutely loved to see how each of them changes so dramatically because of it and how they'll change. This asteroid influences their life so much and I feel like that's something realistic, if everyone got 2 months to be and do what they really wanted we'd see this changes around us as well. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This book follows 4 teenagers during these two months and I enjoyed each of them so much. First of all there's Peter. Peter is the good guy, the one that had great grades, is loved by everyone, is popular and so on. Yet Peter never felt like he was living, never thought he had a purpose. These two months Peter is on his way to find out what his purpose is and what would make him truly happy. Readers will really enjoy him because even though he thinks he needs to find a purpose, his gentle character won't change and that made him a very pleasant person. His actions however, will drastically change and I was a fan seeing that! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Then we have Eliza, who has a connection with Peter. A year before the world was coming to an end, Peter had kissed her. He had a girlfriend! A very mean one. The girlfriend made sure Eliza already changed before the asteroid, in a girl that made guys want her. In a girl that's up for anything. Above that her father is not alright and her mother has left her a few years before. This is a character I was really curious about on how others would act around her. Eliza might act very tough on the outside but her home situation is so different. This character also changes during the last two months, she will chase love while becoming famous by her artwork.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Her artwork was something that defined her even before the asteroid. Eliza loved pictures and now made it purpose to picture everything through her lens as the world is coming to an end. I felt like the author really described each important picture really well which made sure we had a very good vision on it too, and that was something that added to the story and the vibes to my opinion. </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">However I was really into the fact that Eliza started to chase love because it's something she's been holding back for a year now and this is her trying to grab everything left in life. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Then we have Andy, a character that already had a lot of potential to me from the start! Andy has a very bad home situation and basically lives on his own. Also his friends aren't a very safe situation, Bobo (his best friend) is into bad things and expects Andy to be in those things too. Andy is a people pleaser, he doesn't want to lose his best friend and therefore sticks to whatever it is he needs to do. He also didn't believe in forgiveness. This character undergoes such a huge change and he's actually my <i>favorite </i>in this story. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdP3Z22EyxlTt7egAkQf1OGUwBq9DeetZerGTgGImOY01jgjLvUiZeSEL_zn3-26K4085TOdXHndlLogpRsnt1Lz_wJ4BImd4c-JSfQenFbOQNh_T1s3vKcYM6tyn_VWuQk88I_foZXCul/s1600/IMG_7747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdP3Z22EyxlTt7egAkQf1OGUwBq9DeetZerGTgGImOY01jgjLvUiZeSEL_zn3-26K4085TOdXHndlLogpRsnt1Lz_wJ4BImd4c-JSfQenFbOQNh_T1s3vKcYM6tyn_VWuQk88I_foZXCul/s320/IMG_7747.JPG" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Andy begins to understand what forgiveness is and how love feels. Although he had the wrong purpose in the beginning and it took him a while to see he was wrong, this character has so much good in him. His character is really gentle but funny, a lot more smarter than he leads on and so much different from what Bobo wants. I really enjoyed Andy <i>so much</i> because he started to realize what real friends and real love was which made him such a strong character in this book.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Lastly there's Anita, a girl who's life has been all about pleasing her parents. When the end of the world was announced, she finally decided to make her last two months worth living. Anita never got the chance to do what she really loved to do: sing and now this is her last chance. <i>Whatever it was that was holding her back, it isn't worth it</i>. This girl grew so much, from being the hard worker, she became the girl who did what she wanted to do all her life. And she finally starts to realize who she really is and what she really wants which also made this character a very strong one.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Each of these characters bring so much to the story and come together in the <i>karass</i>, as Andy describes it. "</span><span style="background-color: white;">A group of people linked in a cosmically significant manner, even when superficial linkages are not evident. Created by Kurt Vonnegut." when this word was introduced I think I screamed because this was absolutely amazing. It brings all these characters together, one way or another, and made sure that the characters are a very strong feature in this book. I absolutely fell for each of them and enjoyed them so much! </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #2c353c; font-family: "source sans pro" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">As for the plot, I actually didn't really know what I had to expect with a book like this. I didn't want it to be depressing but I also didn't want everyone to be happy about it. The author made a very nice balance between the two while the world became complete mayhem.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #2c353c; font-family: "source sans pro" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">This mayhem sure did add to all the feelings and the vibes that were going on and also made sure that the characters go to explore more and develop more so that's a great thing. But even more this plot was just so much different from what I had expected. It was a lot more action and thrill than I had expected. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #2c353c; font-family: "source sans pro" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Now the world is coming to an end, people decided it was time to take over, others decided it was time to get together with family and yet other people thought it was a good idea to lock everyone up because others got together to talk about the people who locked people up. It's a complete <i>mess </i>but still very easy to follow, yet another great asset to the plot. I feel like the author really thought the plot through and probably put his finger right onto how the world would look in this kind of situation.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Another thing I really loved was the fact that there'd be this big End of The World Party that brought everyone together for the end. It's just amazing to see how much hope seeps into the story just because of this. The coziness, the love, the feeling like you belong, all these words describe how it felt reading about it and how much it actually feels like the end in this book. The author did such a great thing describing the situations that it also really felt like the end was nearing and I really <i>loved </i>to feel that because that's what it's about!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">However, the book also made clear that the end might never come. Scientist weren't sure if it would destroy the world, although it looked like that with a 66.6 percentage. That made sure that the readers would feel really curious towards the end: would it be the end or not? And how would people be if it weren't the end? How would they be if it were really the end? Tommy Wallach also made sure to put different perspectives of the end in the story: people who believe, people who think there's nothing at the end and so on. The reader will really be able to think how he or she would act and what their heart would desire: the end or not?</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Lastly I'd really want to point out how much I enjoyed to see the different perspectives from each character as they had their own plot line. Every character backtracked part of the chapter before it so you would know what the character thought after what happened or what he or she was doing before the last part of the chapter before it. All that really came together in a very nice plot with hope written all over it.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Oh, before I forget! The story makes use of songs as Anita's purpose is to sing. The author only gave the titles but after the end of the story I was going on his website and found that he had all the songs and sang all the songs. If you'd be interested in that I'll put a link to it right <a href="https://tommywallach.bandcamp.com/album/we-all-looked-up-the-album">HERE</a>! And that leaves me to conclude this review...</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtrqzPdbKx5_dHnQaJ690ULwkJCx5fFDzV3FW7T0NJ2hl5IjCtE1vr6TrhmT3MP35bieGfp6QbFyyKnhLpRfLobRoqX0uq9T0bSdr2fvH4MOzBIYzq4LMBIRcMqa27DBumSbrl230ty0pJ/s1600/IMG_7746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtrqzPdbKx5_dHnQaJ690ULwkJCx5fFDzV3FW7T0NJ2hl5IjCtE1vr6TrhmT3MP35bieGfp6QbFyyKnhLpRfLobRoqX0uq9T0bSdr2fvH4MOzBIYzq4LMBIRcMqa27DBumSbrl230ty0pJ/s320/IMG_7746.JPG" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This book is <i>so</i> different from all the things I've read before and I am absolutely speechless. The content is so deep and the characters undergo such a huge change, and that all because of the circumstances. I absolutely loved the concept behind this book and how it influenced everyone's life. People coming together for the end of the world also made sure that the readers will feel the hope that the author is trying to give us through his words. An absolutely stunning read with amazing raw and tender content, surprising elements, things I didn't expect in this book and <i>absolutely</i> amazing characters. If the end of the world would look like this and it's inevitable, I'd say let it come because I'd like to have a karass of my own. What a book...</span><br />
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<h1 style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-family: proxima-nova, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">"Question: How could you look the end of the world in the face and not go crazy? Answer: You couldn't. The only sane thing to do was seek out enough distraction to numb the terror."</span></span></h1>
Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Seattle, Washington, Verenigde Staten47.6062095 -122.332070847.2636695 -122.9775178 47.9487495 -121.68662379999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-25335373440952874822017-06-28T12:00:00.000+02:002017-06-28T12:00:02.706+02:00When We Collided<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Finally, I got around to a book that's been on my book pile for a <i>very </i>long, long time. To be honest, it seemed like great book but somehow I got a bit scared that it would disappoint me! But... what a surprise! So without further ado, let's talk about <b><span style="color: orange;">When We Collided by Emery Lord</span></b>. Also the cover is <i>marvelous</i>!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Jonah Daniels has been having a hard couple of months. His mother doesn't show herself too much and stays in her own room. That leaves him and his older siblings to take care of everything: the household, the money, the other kids,... But those rough months finally seem to ease up and become a bit brighter when Jonah meets Vivian Alexander. Vivi is on a holiday in Verona Cove, trying to escape all that has happened in the past. When these two collide, both finally notice what has been missing in their lives.</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The first character I really want to discuss is Vivi! This book is written with two POV's, therefore it already captured my heart since chapter one (also the head banners per chapter are to <i>die </i>for), and Vivi got the first chapter. The things I noticed really fast about her is her eccentric behavior. She's really active and also full of life, which in my case is something I haven't seen in a main character before. Vivi also really relies on social contact and she's also very playful which makes her sometimes feel younger than she is in my opinion, but I still really love this trait in her. Although I like Vivi's impulsiveness and confident attitude, sometimes I felt like it was a bit too much and that's really a pity because she's such a great character!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">From the beginning it's also really clear that something is going on with her, we don't know what until later on in the story. It was really nice to feel that buildup for us, readers, knowing what's going on with her. Her personality loves mystery but she feels like a mystery herself that has a very bright side to her. It was really amazing to discover this character from page one until the last page.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Jonah is the other main character we'll follow. He used to be a family of 8: the mom, the dad, Jonah, Leah, Bekah, Naomi, Isaac and Silas, and really can I just point out that Bekah and Silas are very original names? I've never heard them before! Our character, Jonah, is having a tough life. The 3 oldest, Jonah, Naomi and Silas are making up for the fact that their parents are not there and take care of the rest of the family. Their mom is in her bedroom almost all the time and their dad, well he's not there anymore. It's really easy to see how much Jonah cares about his family and his mother even though she's not there, I really like to see that in this character. Above that I really feel like Jonah grew up a lot faster than he was supposed to which makes him a very realistic and mature character.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">His personality isn't just caring, it's also very gentle and sweet. He's the kind of guy you want to be your boyfriend. Or well, that's my opinion!<i> I guess I just got myself yet another book boyfriend</i>... I could easily go with this character because of his personality. I kind of have a soft spot for him! He puts everyone first and him last which really shows how much of a golden heart this one has.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCjVgfIeYaGfkifKOalIlZmuf-8xrmNemXMP7rSRCd2Jy818XuySZbbxRAZLbe24OLmdCucGdLL9EiNjGxjLm918Oy52mtwk_v0xkIGKpSx3aW8UIOsw7EnIAY6TBVsYwttnuYg7naWtf4/s1600/wwc.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCjVgfIeYaGfkifKOalIlZmuf-8xrmNemXMP7rSRCd2Jy818XuySZbbxRAZLbe24OLmdCucGdLL9EiNjGxjLm918Oy52mtwk_v0xkIGKpSx3aW8UIOsw7EnIAY6TBVsYwttnuYg7naWtf4/s320/wwc.png" width="317" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">When these two collide it's funny, their first encounter they're trying to mend together. I mean we have Jonah who's all serious and family supporter and Vivi who's all playful and active. And because Vivi is so active and playful, she easily finds her way with Jonah, while Jonah is a bit dumbstruck and uncomfortable while he actually really wants to talk to her. It's really adorable to see there personalities collide and trying to mend together. I really liked to see them balance each other out, Vivi trying to make Jonah more playful, less mature like he should be at this age and Jonah bringing some seriousness and steadiness in her life. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">When two people collide, not only positive things come out of it. The two will have a rough road during the story and that was something I personally really enjoyed (even though sometimes it was SO frustrating!). Especially because both will bring in factors that influence the rough road: Jonah has a lot to deal with but we also know something is going on with Vivi. These things all come together and bring them both happiness and other feelings. It's also because of a collision that both finally realize what they both should be doing in their lives and what was missing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The plot therefore will really balance both characters out as both of them will have major influence on the other. Through the many chapters, both readers and characters discover what life for each of them is about. Some need to mend things, others need to open their eyes, sometimes they need to ask for help and other times they should try to do it themselves. This book is really filled with so many life lessons but it's not laid on the story too thickly it's more subtle than I had expected.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Above that the feelings will be everywhere in this book, it's what you get when two characters collide and don't know what to do with themselves. <i>When We Collided</i> has so much happy moments but those also get broken and replaced by sad moments or embarrassing moments or frustrating ones,... It's really a great thing that there's so much variety in the book. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">And when we finally realize what is going on and our hearts have beaten together and broken together and laughed together, we all finally realize what this book <i>really </i>is about. It's such a surprise while reading because the characters will surprise us so much but also realize what life really is about. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-KoKo4A6z1gv3bOrfXI4RMYejb5d4xCsyHhPN2pCKw2HglY1VfLhkWzRKnftB3OnZ-NoXdGXD1rbCj4mhIiM73O2bFk38omOzSqU5LUhZ0Wt8RT9EHxlc5ZCoScSNi2F4iCajRnzKGtGt/s1600/wwwww.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-KoKo4A6z1gv3bOrfXI4RMYejb5d4xCsyHhPN2pCKw2HglY1VfLhkWzRKnftB3OnZ-NoXdGXD1rbCj4mhIiM73O2bFk38omOzSqU5LUhZ0Wt8RT9EHxlc5ZCoScSNi2F4iCajRnzKGtGt/s320/wwwww.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This book is absolutely amazing, I had my doubts when I started but all of those are gone! The characters are uniquely written. And although I sometimes thought Vivi was a bit too much, she really made up for it in the end. I was really into the story because of the characters but also because of the many feelings and life lessons that were buried inside the story. When you finally think you understand what's happening, you find out you were wrong all along but that this book holds an amazing, feels-loaded message for everyone who wants to see. A splendid read that's an absolute recommendation!</span><br />
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<span style="color: orange; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>"But there are always consequences when worlds collide..."</b></span><br />
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<br />Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Cove St, Verona Island, ME 04416, Verenigde Staten44.5650267 -68.79323579999999144.5650267 -68.793235799999991 44.5650267 -68.793235799999991tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-15423140455567327402017-06-21T12:00:00.000+02:002017-06-21T12:00:15.177+02:00Invaded<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">So we had the month of April which was basically invaded by Luxen, aliens. We're June and once again this blog is going to be invaded by yes another alien species! It's also the 21st of June which means it's FINALLY summer and we can all look out to summer reads that brighten our day even more. And of course the lay-out will change with the season, so I'm excited! Anyway, back to our invasion of today: <b><span style="color: orange;">Invaded by Melissa Landers</span></b>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Note:</i> this is not a first in a series! I recommend not reading any further as Invaded is the second book and there have been many developments and changes made since <i>Alienated</i>. If you're interested in the series or want to read <i>Alienated</i>, I wrote a review of this book on my blog <a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2016/03/alienated.html">HERE</a>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Earth is in need of planet L'eihr's technology but L'eihr won't help out Earth before they have an alliance where everyone agrees to the terms. Cara and Aelyx need to make sure that alliance will be formed by pleasing their people. Cara needs to please L'eihr and Aelyx needs to please Earth. Both knew it would be a huge adjustment and them being away from each other doesn't make things any easier. Especially because both are being targeted and the alliance is in danger.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">First off, the characters! Cara seriously grew so much onto me. I can't believe that I didn't like her at first in <i>Alienated</i>. This character really has a very big task and she's very sure of herself to make it true. Her determination and her trying so hard was something I really appreciated. Especially because she's now on another planet, surrounded by species who don't like her at all, Cara is really being tested. I appreciated that this character showed us to always believe everything will come to a good end, and didn't give up. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I did love the fact that the author made the balance between her being totally alright and not giving up and then give her moments where she really doubts if she can do this and want this. I think that's a very realistic perspective of life as well, the ups and downs, and our character has these moments which gives the book a very realistic twist (well in the feels department since Aliens are not real <i>yet</i>.)! Cara really surprised me by her actions and motivation and I'm really keen on her! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Then we've got Aelyx, also he is on a planet where the species will test him. Also Aelyx the alien has changed a lot over the past two books, his hatred for mankind has simmered down now he knows Cara. During the book we'll also see his perspective and his feelings towards her and can I just <i>scream</i>? He's so adorable! Another trait in this character was his patience on the unknown planet and try his hardest to form the alliance. He's also really gentle, gentler than I had expected, and really caring which really is a trait that I feel he had less in <i>Alienated</i>! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The bond between Cara and Aelyx will be tested as both are on unknown territory and are away from each other's support, but they're still there for each other and that will be highly appreciated by the readers. Both of them might be far away from each other, but the cuteness and gentle, comforting moments will get a chance in this book as well. Something I really appreciated to see as I was a bit scared that we wouldn't see these moments at all because they were apart. However readers might also really appreciate the fact that they're on their own, it really gave them the chance to feel one with the planet they're on and also made sure that the characters knew further development! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Lastly, I really want to talk about Cara's <i>brother</i>! It might come as a surprise but he really grew on me! I don't want to spoil too much because it really is something to enjoy during the read, but I just love this character so much. He's really funny and caring but in his own way and I was really happy that we'd get to know him after all. Troy is a very surprising character, especially after all the things we already knew about him (which weren't all the most positive ones) and readers will really be pleased by him!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZoadjbS-IwEFJZv8RIX8Agm8_N5XoAyK5idASG2zx-WIfCTsqTEx_Z7_mau0gJavlEvxjxuWvHmwn3z56xCq_e6-j0JBMh43c1nFHM9jHDILVrlCGFrazRwZf4rSzDPSG9z0J5bMGqKGJ/s1600/inn.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZoadjbS-IwEFJZv8RIX8Agm8_N5XoAyK5idASG2zx-WIfCTsqTEx_Z7_mau0gJavlEvxjxuWvHmwn3z56xCq_e6-j0JBMh43c1nFHM9jHDILVrlCGFrazRwZf4rSzDPSG9z0J5bMGqKGJ/s320/inn.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The plot really surprised me the most, because it felt like a huge contrast and I actually really liked that. I'm in love with the fact that it's a reversed world where both characters go to the partner's world and live there. Of course there's this bigger task that's important while they're there but still, it is something really cool!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Especially because now Cara lives on planet L'eihr we'll even get more drowned into the culture and above that get to see the landscapes, the government, the daily schedules and how everything works on the planet. <i>Get ready to become full L'eihr!</i> I really think this is a great asset to the book to see the functioning of this other planet and the contrasts it shows with ours.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">But as I already mentioned, a bigger task needs to be done: the alliance. It's only because of the alliance that both character now reside on each other's planet.<i> Thank you alliance, now I know how planet L'eihr looks like</i>. The alliance between the two should help the earth with it's problems but readers will soon try to find out why the L'eihrs want this alliance: what's in it for them? And that's how all the suspicion starts to take place. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It's not a secret that the Earthlings hate Aelyx and it's also not a secret that L'eihrs hate Cara, these relationship between the alien and the earthlings and the earthling and the aliens will really create a tension and more division in both camps. The remaining question is how everyone is going to react to the tension and that was also the surprising moment in this book. (Which I'm not going to get say because <i>hello </i>spoilers!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This book actually really contains a lot of surprise and I really loved it a lot more than I did <i>Alienated </i>because there's a lot more action and mystery that's supported by the tension. Above that now Cara resides on L'eihr she won't only find out more about their culture but also about many more other cultures in the galaxy which once again gives a nice twist to the story. When we finally find out what on earth is actually going on, you'll be actually really surprised by this as it is something unpredictable, yet fantastic to find out. I have to say this outcome was actually a lot more twisted and original than I had expected. Then again, I hadn't expected anything like this in the plot.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Next to mystery, action and thrilling I really felt like the story made a lot more room for the feels. Now the characters are divided, the tension will also be transferred onto their relationship which then causes moments of comforting, love and caring but also moments of jealousy and <i>uncertainty </i>which I actually really appreciated. The bonds created will receive a new dept that was really amazing to witness and of course there are also the family bonds and friendships that get more attention! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Lastly, I noticed that this book has a third in a series, but I don't know if I want to read it. It's not that I hated the two books in this series, not at all. In fact I <i>absolutely </i>enjoyed them! However the author made it look like this was the last in the series as the end feels really the end for me. I'm satisfied with it. I think that's a good thing actually, if readers want it to be the end they can but they can also go on and explore further. I did notice that there's a suggestion that opens the way for a third book, but I also thought that it could be a future thing that we wouldn't ever know and didn't really mind that. </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I'm not sure what I'm going to do, either read on <i>or </i>stop here and make this my ending. </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Either ways are possible and I like that about the series. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>PS: I actually originally thought that this was a duology! That's why I thought this was the end, until I found out a few minutes ago that there was a third in the series! </i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This book shows such a contrast to <i>Alienated</i>! The characters are now more evolved but still show their traits and strengths through the book. I even felt like we finally got to know them a lot more and a lot better, which is a very big asset to this book. Above that the plot takes a whole new turn as the worlds are now reversed: Cara is on the planet L'eihr and Aelyx is on earth. I really loved to see this going that way because both are foreign on the planets and that causes a lot of new things and a lot of adjustment. We finally also got to know the L'eihr culture a lot more because Cara lived there and I must say this culture was nice to explore! To top it all off, the two characters need to make the alliance between the two races stand, but some don't agree and sabotage which gives the plot a taste of action and suspense! I loved this book even more than I did <i>Alienated</i>!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: orange; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>“When you preach hatred, how do you expect your followers to respond?” </b></span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Leihr40.7830603 -73.97124880000001240.590684800000005 -74.293972300000007 40.9754358 -73.648525300000017tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-41786856425974923552017-06-07T12:00:00.000+02:002017-09-14T16:02:33.706+02:00New Moon | Audiobook<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">A little while back, I tried out the first in a series that I had always told myself <i>you will not read it</i>! Yet I haven't been able to resist and although I had my remarks on it, I still wanted to read the rest of the series so that's what I did! I picked up the audiobook of <b><span style="color: #351c75;">New Moon by Stephenie Meyer</span></b> and enjoyed this one a lot more than <i>Twilight</i>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u>Note:</u></b> This is not a first in a series, I highly recommend you not to read any further since this is the second book in the series and further developments have been made. If you're interested in the series and haven't read the first story, I have a review on <i>Twilight </i><a href="http://toreadornotbyerica.blogspot.be/2017/03/twilight.html">HERE</a>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Bella's life is all about Edward Cullen. Now she knows what he is it's even harder for her to stay away. Edward saved Bella once, but not all danger is gone and the more he realizes she's in danger, the more he's turning away from her. Bella is left with a broken heart over Edward's behavior and comfort comes from a very unexpected corner. But is everything how it looks like?</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">First I'd really love to talk about Bella because I finally know how I feel about her! In my review of <i>Twilight </i>I wrote that I wasn't really sure how to feel about her, but I do now! I like her! It might be because Edward Cullen is less around her side or it might just be the fact that she grew up and didn't overreact as much as she did in the first book. I feel like she behaves herself a lot more mature and that's something I really appreciated about her. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Above that, Bella is torn over Edward Cullen who is trying acting weird and that causes her to make changes in her life. It isn't about Edward all the time and that made this character also a lot more pleasant. Bella will sort out her feelings after a while and her feelings were so relatable when you're torn over someone that I could also really feel with her. She'll get stronger and more determined in a mature way and not in a childish one. She really feels like a whole other character, one that I appreciate a lot more and also grew a lot more than Bella in <i>Twilight</i>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for Edward, of course I still like him. Just as in the review on <i>Twilight </i>he still finds his way toward my heart and I won't be sorry about that! Once again he shows us how mature he can be, and his little childish moments he had in <i>Twilight </i>will also disappear; which I'm grateful for. I felt like in <i>New Moon</i> we saw </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">even</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">a lot more how protective he is over Bella in a less over-romantic way. I really love this protectiveness of Edward in a tender and sweet way instead of the cliche way we saw it in the first book. And just in general, I really love this character for his protectiveness</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> and kindness. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">However this book made a lot more room for other, new, characters to come in and present themselves, something I was very happy about! First of all, I'd like to talk about Charlie. I just <i>adore </i>this character so much and I'm so happy that in this book he was more present. Charlie is a bit like Edwards but then in a different way, he's protective of Bella but makes it seem like that in the little ways which I appreciated a lot. He's very down to earth but a character that's funny and is just <i>really </i>enjoyable! Sometimes he's also so unknowing which made him even funnier. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for a character we saw briefly in </span><i style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Twilight</i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">, there's Jacob! Also this character was one that I was really happy to see more of because he adds so much to the story. He's different from Edward, he's less stiff and more outgoing but in a sweet way. He'll also take care of her which is another trait in this character that will be loved by readers. Other than that this character really gives more to the story as he'll be very important and is just a very good friend to Bella which made me appreciate him even more. I feel like the movies made him seem so hateful and not good enough, but in the books he's way different (at least that's what my opinion is).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Now the plot was also a whole new thing. <i>Twilight </i>focused on discovering what the Cullens were and the possible danger that comes along with it. This danger that comes with the Cullens will be the first focus point in the book. I really loved to see this part because otherwise it only seems like they were untouchable. Stephenie Meyer really made it clear that danger comes from all different corners and not just the ones you expect. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This all leads to the protectiveness that Edward brings as he decides this danger is not what he wants from Bella. I did think he'd become protective but what follows was something I don't really feel was something many would see coming, this isn't anything predictable. Of course if you've seen the movies it <i>is </i>predictable but this was one of the movies I absolutely loathed so I don't remember too much of it. That of course sets everything into motion, Bella is sad because he's being like this and she turns to new friends: Jacob.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>New Moon</i> brings such a very nice friendship and bond between the characters, it's really something to appreciate and also something that's really relatable. Of course it isn't full of action but it did make us see more about the characters and their interests which I think is an asset to the book.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">However for everyone who thinks this would be boring because there is no action, hold up! There is! Things seem solved after <i>Twilight</i>, the bad guy is gone but does it really mean it's solved? Above that certain things will start to seem weird and not as they first seemed to be. New things will come out of the dark and present themselves. This is a bit cryptic, I know and I also bet half of you know what it is but I like to stay not-suggestive for the ones that don't know. These unsolved problems and new things that are looming around will make sure that the reader, next to all the loss and the new friendship, will get mystery and action into the story. The author made a very good balance between this new mystery and the new friendship in the plot! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Which brings me to the feelings, the first book in the series was very cliche and had me rolling my eyes <i>so much</i>. The romance was just <i>too </i>much and <i>too </i>thick but <i>New Moon</i> really changes all that. There will be place for friendship, loss, funny parts but of course there's still romance. I'm <i>really </i>happy that the romance is much tender and sweeter instead of the <i>over-romantic-eye-rolling-cliche</i>! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Lastly, when we finally know what's going on everything will turn upside down! Bella might be acting as if she's alright but she still feels the ache and that makes her a bit crazy which then causes everyone to get a minor heart attack because every crazy thing she does, has consequences... I'm not going to get into details though (but yet again, most of you already know...). That's yet another thing that I appreciated in this book, when you think it's all okay and well it turns out to be different than what you expected! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">A little note for everyone who did see the films but did not read the books: you need to read them. Although the movie really shows a lot of things that happen in the book, I felt like the ending had a lot more to give in the book than in the movie! So if I can make a suggestion: read the books! Although my review on the first book wasn't too good, I have to say <i>New Moon</i> really surprised me by turning out a lot more different than I had expected!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc81rlcA9_RtUgD9_obddv_ZYcKcO-k9eyJ8xBps2rxDrGqAOIjr3pW1eY_cS3rRKdnC3VHfU8dU5piQ0XlIoLnSRNu8Lwzu0RNZOBmfgv3JXTrORmC_dBsGUkLHHUZkvg62bZf7hwOosv/s1600/IMG_7744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc81rlcA9_RtUgD9_obddv_ZYcKcO-k9eyJ8xBps2rxDrGqAOIjr3pW1eY_cS3rRKdnC3VHfU8dU5piQ0XlIoLnSRNu8Lwzu0RNZOBmfgv3JXTrORmC_dBsGUkLHHUZkvg62bZf7hwOosv/s320/IMG_7744.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I enjoyed this book far better than <i>Twilight</i>! Even though some characters don't come around as much as I wished them to, other and new characters get a chance to present themselves and to further develop during the story. The mystery towards the other creature in this series and their influence in the story was also something I really enjoyed to see. And of course there are things from the first book that return because they weren't solved, bringing a whole new portion of action and wonder! I also found this book far less cliche and over-romantic which can only be another asset in my opinion! I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series and to seeing the adventure with Edward and Bella!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>“Forbidden to remember, terrified to forget; it was a hard line to walk.”</b></span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Forks, Washington 98331, Verenigde Staten47.950355 -124.385486747.907817 -124.4661677 47.992893 -124.3048057tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-21304219365052884662017-05-31T18:15:00.000+02:002017-08-28T18:06:20.212+02:00Existence<i style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">Finally</i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">! I got my hands onto a book that I wanted for ages but could never find in any of my bookstores: </span><i style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">"out of stock"</i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> situation! Yet finally, I got around it and ordered the book: </span><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Existence by Abbi Glines</b></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">, and I feel </span><i style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">so </i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">happy to have it! Although I did feel a bit disappointed by it and really hope the other books are better!</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">Pagan isn't any normal girl, aside from going to school and doing homework she sees things nobody else sees. And she shouldn't be able to see the things she sees: <i>souls</i>. None of the souls give her any attention, and she doesn't give them any attention either. One day, that all changes when one of them starts staring at her and eventually starts talking to her. Trying to ignore him, Pagan can't do anything else but start getting attached to the soul. But he is nowhere near a soul...</b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">First of all, Pagan Moore. As already mentioned above, Pagan sees souls. I really had expected Pagan to be a bit more stressed out about this and to <i>want </i>to find out why she can see them. However, this character feels like it's completely normal and just ignores the souls as a solution. I don't really feel happy about that, because it doesn't really give any mystery to her ability, however I do feel as if that's something unique. Many characters in books that I have read and have a special ability really stress out about it and wonder, this gives Pagan a more unique side. Yet I can't help but want that mystery around her ability which I lacked in her personality.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Other than that I really enjoyed this character, she stood up for herself through all the madness. She's a girl with a lot of spirit! She says no when she feels like it, and she does what she really likes. Yet when she's finally doing so well, she often disappointed me by becoming the <i>needy </i>and <i>judgmental </i>kind of girl. A side I rather not see in her! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for her the spirit she comes to see and starts talking to, now that's what I call mystery! The book describes him as a very handsome guy but also as a very relaxed one, and one that likes to get the blood from under Pagan's nails. I can't help but love books where boys behave like that: tempered but still soft and also this soul is like that. Readers will really be pulled into the story because of him and because he also speaks in cryptic messages from time to time. Yet his personality also has the soft side, as I already mentioned, and that soft side will melt us from time to time. I really loved this soul, he probably is my favorite in the whole story because of his character and the mystery he brings!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">One other character I really want to discuss is Leif, a very popular guy in the book. Pagan really judges him from the start and the arguments she brings do make us fend for her side. Yet I am really happy that the book made time to let us explore Leif and see what's really going on with this guy. He might be popular but I really loved this character as well, he's very calm and very funny which made an awesome personality that's swoon worthy! However, get ready for more exploring this character because I feel like he will be important in the next few books. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Now the plot, I kind of was disappointed with the plot. Everything starts out so good: the mysterious soul that talks, getting to know our characters, getting to know the environment. But as I already has mentioned: Pagan isn't really concerned by her seeing the souls and the reason behind it. </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I felt like that really <i>really </i>ruined part of the plot, the author really left out a part where I think I could have learned so much more about the creatures into the book. We will find out more about them, but the mystery really was lacking. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">However, that is made up by her getting attached to the soul that won't go away. I was keen on seeing how she would act towards it and how she would get rid of it or how she would bring it into her life and handle it. This was something very tender and sweet that I did enjoy from time to time, but sometimes Pagan became <i>so </i>needy (this more towards the end) which then again ruined it a bit in my opinion. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">To every soul is a story, or so I'd like to describe it because the soul she can't get rid of will bring mystery. <i>Thank the Bookgods! </i>After a little while, the plot will make the soul something different, something special and I was really excited about that because finally there was thrill! And when Pagan realized that, she <i>finally </i>started doing her research. Although I found it a bit superficial at times, I did still managed to enjoy it and wonder what was going on. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">And there is more going on than I had first expected, people are coming after Pagan without any reason to. Although that's what we think together with the main character, but once again the soul brings mystery with it and<i> he. knows. more</i>. I'm really happy that the author decided to mix this in because it did give us some action in the story next to the tender and sweet moments. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Lastly, I'd like to point out that the book is rather fast paced which I think is a negative side because it gives us less time to explore this new world and made us jump from one thing to another. And the ending was also rather rushed! This rushing is really a pity because it should've created a lot more mystery and suspicion for the next book, but it lacked in this department. It <i>did </i>menage to give the reader a satisfying ending though! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I know it sounds really negative, but I did really enjoy it. The sweet and tender parts and the getting to know characters better was really nice. Also after a while, the suspense and mystery comes so that's a great thing, but I <i>was </i>disappointed and had expected a lot more. I did see that the following books are a lot better rated so I'm still looking forward to the rest of the series, especially because this ending was a cliffhanger!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAAf6UKq5XKGftLZE4xqDx5vMo1tnhcb4eggZzZbhFz8pBYgYnpQYF24NaRMMZ2-WrJMlhm7n992OZko35WFrsw1R0XLxVI9xMkVaGqO9x-NJZdX0MlB2d3k1-cmcxTEVAFHwJ_cUJsbC_/s1600/IMG_7705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAAf6UKq5XKGftLZE4xqDx5vMo1tnhcb4eggZzZbhFz8pBYgYnpQYF24NaRMMZ2-WrJMlhm7n992OZko35WFrsw1R0XLxVI9xMkVaGqO9x-NJZdX0MlB2d3k1-cmcxTEVAFHwJ_cUJsbC_/s320/IMG_7705.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I have to say I fairly enjoyed the book but <i>really </i>hope that the rest of the series will be better. The thing that made me enjoy it less was the fact that the main character, who sees souls, doesn't really question it a lot and when she becomes attached to ones she still doesn't really ask what's going on. At all. Also I felt like the story skipped from one subject to another on a very rapid pace. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">That aside, I really did enjoy the characters and the story around it enough to really be willing to read the next book as we are left with a very important question at the ending that maybe should've been presented a bit more tragic and thrilling, but sounds very intriguing for the next book! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">"H</span><span style="background-color: white;">e's about to break all the rules."</span></b></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Verenigde Staten37.09024 -95.712891000000013-36.4162205 99.052733999999987 90 69.521483999999987tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-62874614806803425552017-05-24T12:00:00.000+02:002017-05-24T12:00:05.159+02:00These Broken Stars<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">A book I fell in love with, and it <i>was </i>love at first sight really, was <b><span style="color: #351c75;">These Broken Stars by Amie Kaufman and Meagan Spooner</span></b>. <i>That </i>cover. It was all it took to convince me I needed this book on my shelves! And after reading the back of the story, I was even more convinced that I needed this book right away!</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">When the <i>Icarus </i>comes crashing down, the only survivors left are Lilac and Tarver. Both come from a different social class and both of them hate one another. But when you find yourself on unknown territory, on an unknown planet, don't you think it's better to work together and find your way out of it? Both characters have a hard time trusting one another as this is easy for Tarver being a soldier but hard for Lilac being a royalty. But when the planet blooms with things they both have never seen before, they find out it's better to stay together than alone...</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This story is like<i> Romeo and Juliet</i>, mixed with<i> the Titanic</i>, mixed with futuristic elements... and I absolutely found it intriguing, phenomenal and fantastic! This read has so much in store for us and I am excited! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">First of all, the characters! Lilac LaRoux was a character I didn't really know what to think of in the beginning. When we first see her, I felt like she was different from the rest of her social class. Lilac is one of the most popular girls in the whole galaxy because she's a LaRoux and everyone insists she acts like a LaRoux. This girl gives so many mixed signals but she also knows the biggest development in the whole book. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Some personal traits are the following: extremely stubborn and extremely determined. I have to hand it to her but when everyone expects her to act like a queen, she does quiet the opposite. There are a few moments in the book where I don't know what to make of her: the queen who thinks everyone else is below her, <i>or </i>the Lilac who doesn't see differences and thinks people are equal. This was something that really intrigued me because this girl made you so curious to who she really was and what her purpose was. Her stubbornness and her determination will also add to her finding her purpose in life and will also make sure she stays out of danger. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I really loved to see Lilac because she grew during the story, as one of the higher social classes she didn't know what to do in survival, or how to act in certain situations. She became a very strong individual who knew how to fend for herself and I really admired that development within her. The once rude Lilac will change dramatically and it's very noticeable in the story!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for the other person who crashed from heaven, Major </span><span style="background-color: white;">Tarver Merendsen he's my new <i>book boyfriend </i>you guys! He's a soldier but all soldiers come from a lower social class, his personality will reflect his hatred for people who are higher above. Especially because he wants everyone to be equal and <i>real</i>. I really loved to see Tarver because even though he think Lilac is one of those higher snobs, he'll still protect her. Tarver has also made a very huge development, he becomes more and more open during the plot. This also causes the readers to know more about his past, about his behavior and his feelings which I felt was a great asset because it shows us how he manages to survive.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">His knowledge is also something I really admired and added more to the story as it progresses. At one side we have the all-knowing Tarver and at the other side the unknowing Lilac. Yet the further we go, the more we realize also Lilac has knowledge to add which showed another side of her readers will <i>really </i>enjoy. Especially because to all knowledge is a story and both of the characters will give us fragments of the past which I was really keen on. It made us get to know them even better! Even though they're from another social class, it's great to see how they worked together as a team and bundled their knowledge to survive!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ3bXgHisx3bTK9hIPqQgQKeIpx1Tyd8R9eT2VSfnzOuGvH9_u4tGxNzsez8wPvfAc6DBFaWIW7gLJkN1EQIP2pYWVFuPVGd_uKIR_AGHCXYs4hu0TvD7vi1ZDGonvAWVDK0Y3tieZ9ebJ/s1600/IMG_7707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ3bXgHisx3bTK9hIPqQgQKeIpx1Tyd8R9eT2VSfnzOuGvH9_u4tGxNzsez8wPvfAc6DBFaWIW7gLJkN1EQIP2pYWVFuPVGd_uKIR_AGHCXYs4hu0TvD7vi1ZDGonvAWVDK0Y3tieZ9ebJ/s320/IMG_7707.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for the plot, it was very surprising! The first few chapters we'll get into the world of the future with the social classes and how everyone behaves in those social classes. I was really keen on seeing that in this story because it explains a lot for the rest of the plot. And slowly but surly the plot builds up towards the crash which leads to Lilac and Tarver in one of the escape rooms and them escaping to find safety on a new planet.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">This planet was very rich and very nice to play around with because it has different sceneries and therefore different dangers or hard moments in it. Even though Tarver knows his way around on many planets, and knows how they're each build up, this planet has a different vibe. That's another thing that I really enjoyed: the knowing but not knowing entirely. It made sure that the plot just becomes more thrilling and suspenseful: <i>what </i>is different? And <i>why </i>is it different? Things seem more darker than you'd first thought.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">At first the plot will also be a lot about finding the ship, <i>Icarus</i>, that came crashing down and to find the rescuers, if there are any already. Above that in that first moment they touch down the planet, it's also really about the two main characters and their differences. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">These differences just give so much more to the plot as each of them has knowledge and each of their personalities will roughen everything up.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">However, the plot will make a very slow movement towards the dangers onto the planet: mental and psychical. Readers will be happy about the fact that that movement is made very slowly because it therefore still hides a lot. I don't want to get into detail too much because when that movement is made, I was <i>shocked</i>. This is something I really hadn't expected in this book. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">I had expected them to just find the other people on the planet, find the <i>Icarus </i>and be done with it while talking their way out of their differences, but <i>oh no</i>! This plot is so rich, so dynamic and it will just really surprise you when you least expected it. You're in for a much deeper story than you might think, with danger, action but also with a lot of surprising futuristic elements and a lot of plot twists. These plot twists kept everything very interesting and made the plot also a lot more suspenseful! Also, </span><span style="background-color: white;">I'd like to say that these two characters are just so amazing. Their hatred for each other really gives so many funny encounters that the reader can enjoy and laugh at sometimes, which made the plot get a more light side.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Lastly, I really love to point out that between each chapter, one of the characters will be asked questions. This is such a great asset to the book to my opinion, because those questions really build up towards the ending. You get a feel about what has happened and how this might influence your ending. It's also a great way to summarize a chapter and comes in handy when you put the book aside and want to catch up!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6XmiZvT8ZV8RrllwvJ2qzv3jJHAZc2GkvW9mqCoD7fN7DQfVpij9MsMp-Ekucwf8vVxkkgdjpa_5FO55aR6OyfSRlq28i28YH6wUK1ypkoo0-xdbvvIi7ke_ov7I06Yth4O8we3cZWly1/s1600/IMG_7708.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6XmiZvT8ZV8RrllwvJ2qzv3jJHAZc2GkvW9mqCoD7fN7DQfVpij9MsMp-Ekucwf8vVxkkgdjpa_5FO55aR6OyfSRlq28i28YH6wUK1ypkoo0-xdbvvIi7ke_ov7I06Yth4O8we3cZWly1/s320/IMG_7708.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This book was better than I had anticipated. I was a bit skeptic in the beginning of the book but after a few pages, I was happy to be pulled into the story. The characters, both from a different social class, show us so much and are incredibly written. They always show a side you didn't expect them to have. The plot is also filled with thrill and suspense and when you least expect it, the plot will absolutely <i>destroy </i>you with plot twists. The plot was so rich, unique with a very dynamic but unpredictable new world. Above that many surprises await us in this world and I had never expected anything like this. A very unique story with a nice twist to everything, I absolutely loved it so much!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>"And there it is, against all hope, like the sun peeking out from behind the clouds. The smallest hint of a smile.”</b></span></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0New Planet39.7564542 -75.72548749999998639.7534027 -75.730529999999987 39.7595057 -75.720444999999984tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-89819880617529301522017-05-20T12:00:00.000+02:002017-08-13T13:20:23.374+02:00The Winner's Curse<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This is one of those books that's just <i>so </i>good that you need the second book, the third and then hope it's longer than a trilogy. I am cursed though, it's only 3 books in this series... Well, I guess I should just enjoy the rest of it and then cry because I wished there were more books. This book was so much better than I had ever dared to dream: <b><span style="color: #351c75;">The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkoski</span>.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Kestrel's known for her power. Not directly hers but her family's power. Nobody dares to say a bad word of her or even look at her the wrong way. One day all of that changes, when Kestrel buys a slave on the market and feels there's more to him than an eye can see. She's ready to uncover the whole truth about her slave, but society thinks a lot differently about her cause. When she finally understands the dept of this person, it might already be too late to cover the truth or even escape...</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Where to start, where to start! Both characters that are focused on the most are each such <i>beautifully </i>written characters because they both deceive the other and their environments. For a change, I'll start with the male main character: the slave. Each of the slaves is known to be a Herrani and he is also one of those. What a Herrani is or what they do or who they are, is something for you to find out while reading this book (and I really recommend that you do). I do have to admit that in the beginning I was a bit confused about what a Valorian was or a Herrani or Herran but once you're pulled into the story, you'll know soon enough! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">So about our slave's personality: I just <i>adored </i>him. He might be hiding so many treasures and secrets, maybe even lies and truth, I just absolutely loved him. His personality is very guarded, which is nothing less than I had expected since he's a slave and has been through a lot. However this guarded side of him is actually quiet pleasant because it really gives you the opportunity to find out who he is, alongside with Kestrel who's trying to do the same. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This book is written in 3rd person narrator which also gives us a few private moments with the slave's thoughts and actions. This also causes the reader to know some things sooner than Kestrel which actually build up so much more tension than I had expected. Every time I read a 3rd person narrator, I feel like some of the tension is gone but here it wasn't like that. With every clue the slave gave us, a new one came into place and made me wonder what this is all about. I was really keen on being in the thoughts of the slave and know what he was up to, I do wish to have had those moments a lot more than they were given in <i>The Winner's Curse</i>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">One thing I also want to quickly mention about the slave were his tricks. He might not look like one of the smartest but he has so much more power than I had granted him. This guy... he deceived me and oh was I happy to be deceived by this guy... This character was so much more than he wanted us to see!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for Kestrel, she had most of the story and we also knew so much about her. The moment she bought a slave, most readers would be doubting: does she do it out of a kind heart or does she do it to make her father proud? Her father is the general in the military and he doesn't hide the fact that he wants her to be part of that military. Yet Kestrel is smart, <i>very </i>smart and she knows how to get around her father the best way possible: play a game. One day she'll have to decide anyway: marry or enlist. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I was amazed by the fact that the female main character is pictured as such a smart woman. I feel like in all books I have read that the women are often pictured as really strong fighters with high emotional steadiness until they break. Kestrel was so much the opposite in this: she couldn't fight well at all, she was the smart strategist who knew every flaw in a plan, who saw what was the best way to approach and who therefore knew how to play a game while bluffing. She was so smart and I absolutely loved seeing that in this character so much. Above that she was also kind to everyone who was kind to her, and she was dangerous to everyone who wasn't kind to her. This contrast was also something that I absolutely admired in her personality.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAYUhgbTtiv8JBdSVPZCR89IGk9zndwkyyMdvvPfJVMFXViZAJoHSp4wz_MMNX-3QoNxKbgsZ_OO-7Qa3n5HqWBFkXsMeD3g9JJYieS3-8gU0lBEqqK8wyJTJt90ai4UFFwg8Nmj_-Ivba/s1600/wcc.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAYUhgbTtiv8JBdSVPZCR89IGk9zndwkyyMdvvPfJVMFXViZAJoHSp4wz_MMNX-3QoNxKbgsZ_OO-7Qa3n5HqWBFkXsMeD3g9JJYieS3-8gU0lBEqqK8wyJTJt90ai4UFFwg8Nmj_-Ivba/s320/wcc.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Both characters are very similar to each other: both of them can easily pass as liars, both can easily pass as manipulating people and both can easily pass as lovable characters. Even though both have the same personality traits and share so many things together, they each still brought so much uncertainty and new things to the story because of their background and because of their treasures, memories, secrets inside of them. These characters were to <i>die </i>for! Both were such good strategists that they couldn't see what the other one was clearly doing and that brought so many feels for the readers and I just feel so in love with these characters PLEASE give them to me in real life, I'll be their best friends!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The thing with these two characters is that even though both seem to hate the other at times, they would do anything for the other. How small the gesture might be and it's then so hard for the both of them to know if the God of lies is loving them or if this is really the truth. The constant doubt about the intentions really was splendid.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This is a story that contains so many games between the people and it's so important to keep your head into it or you will lose. As said on the back of my book: <i>"The gamble is whether you will keep your head or lose your heart. Winning what you want may cost you everything you love."</i> And isn't that true. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The plot plays with a very big hierarchy and really focuses on the high class society, the reader will be caught of guard by all the luxury, the gossips and the love triangles while trying to gamble their predictions about the plot. I actually really loved to be a part of this high class because it wasn't too exaggerated. Some books tend to go over the top with the gossip and loses the red line in the story but <i>The Winner's Curse</i> really gives a balance between the two. The gossip also really makes you stay sharp because it can be relevant for future events in the book or even past events. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The biggest focus is of course on Kestrel and the slave: what is she going to find out about him and what is he trying to do to her? The feelings will be all over the place, and you will get frustrated because you might ship people but those people are acting as if the other one doesn't exist and you need them to be together. One step in the right direction, causes them to take two steps back and then I haven't even begun about other character coming in and deciding things for other characters... this book is such a game and a constant pulling and pushing that it's just amazing to read. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">But of course what would this book be without a bit of warfare, more games and of course a total surprise? When we finally realize what has been going on and who lied to who the world has been turned upside down. Other people will arise and better than any of us probably expected them too and the two worlds seem to be changed up. That part actually really reminded me of<i> Beauty and the Beast</i> and I also loved that! Still the personality trait of smart will never leave both characters and this will of course deceive them both once again. Did I already mention that betrayal is also one of the things I'd sum up if people asked me 5 words that described this book?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This seemed the biggest surprise of all, the world turned upside down but then there was the ending, <i>yep </i>there it was and what a surprise we caught there... For the record, that surprise actually broke my heart a lot and also made me need the second book like right away so I could find out who found out or didn't and what they'll do now... I just need <i>The Winner's Crime </i>okay! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT8igvbqTyKGAsrmQ6QY0XfkcbKVTUTyJQsafUOetiKaFYT3a-DTJzhbd2u5J9e3uSnG7trV-8iPw3-s9PRR-2XdKj8QRHgCvo4LoTW5w4t9_0U3iKt7MDx3wb1ksa9-fh21en-rf96bZV/s1600/wccc.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT8igvbqTyKGAsrmQ6QY0XfkcbKVTUTyJQsafUOetiKaFYT3a-DTJzhbd2u5J9e3uSnG7trV-8iPw3-s9PRR-2XdKj8QRHgCvo4LoTW5w4t9_0U3iKt7MDx3wb1ksa9-fh21en-rf96bZV/s320/wccc.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">To conclude this review <span style="background-color: white; color: #181818;">I wish I could give this all the stars in the universe. Never had I expected this book to be as good as it actually is. I am surprised, I am excited, I am ready for the rest of this trilogy and I want the other books right now. This book was so good! The characters share so many of the same traits but still spin it that they seem so unique. The female character really surprised me by being a very strong one by her mind and not by her fighting skills. The level of deadly games and gambling away your life is very high in here, as is the topic of warfare but that really gave this book another unique twists and made it very interesting as well as enjoyable. And if you're looking for feels, surprise, lies, games, gossip, and much more in a total rich new world, this really is <i>your </i>book to read. I absolutely recommend this book to everyone who is ready for so many feels, so many surprises and so many other things. Absolutely one of my new favorite books!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;">"The God of Lies loves you..."</span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Valorian32.768719 -117.134084000000037.2466844999999971 -158.44267800000003 58.290753499999994 -75.82549000000003tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-74570551369118346362017-05-17T12:00:00.000+02:002017-07-22T20:32:33.622+02:00PS I Like You | Audiobook<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It's been a long while since I've read anything <i>this </i>cute and adorable. I do have to say, this author always knows a way to my heart with her books. I always wish there was a second part to every book she writes but it's also satisfying to read a standalone, especially when they're so adorable: <b><span style="color: #351c75;">PS I Like You by Kasie West</span></b>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Little note: I read this as an Audiobook! Can I just say how much I actually liked listening to an Audiobook? I had never expected that I'd like it because I also don't like e-books. I just want the physical copy! However, I have to say an Audiobook might become very welcome in my life, especially when I'm driving or walking or when my eyes are too tired to read. This also means I don't have a lot of pictures about this book at all, which <i>is </i>sad because I like the cover so much but well, it's worth it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Lily hates chemistry. All she wants is to write song lyrics and make music so she can enter the competition. Yet one day, during her chemistry class, someone has left a note for her and she feels intrigued. Whoever the person was, he or she knew what real music was! Lily soon finds herself constantly writing with her anonymous penpal and because of that, she can even write amazing lyrics. But who is the person at the other end?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I have to hand it to Kasie West, she knows how to write intriguing and realistic characters. Each character we came across in this book has so much of reality and it so easy to relate to, I absolutely enjoyed each one of them. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Lily is very passionate about music and really loves to write lyrics but she feels very shy and </span>self conscious when it comes to that. This character will really show you her passion and it was really nice to see and feel it through her, but she'll also have that realistic side of her that's scared of what people might think about the words. This just really shows how realistic the character is: her need to please the people around her is something a lot of us will be able to relate to! However, I really loved this character's toughness. </div>
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Although she's very shy about her words, her actions will show you how much she actually cares about what people think about her otherwise. It's a nice contrast added to Lily, one many readers will enjoy. Even though she sometimes is a little bit naive, I really think a lot of readers will love her for her strength to face society and bring it down while still being the shy but passionate girl that doesn't want to be judged. </div>
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Another character that I absolutely adored was Isabel, the best friend of Lily. I felt like she was a little bit more bright, shiny and funny in comparison to Lily which also shows a nice contrast between the characters. Isabel is a very supportive friend, a very sweet friend and I really appreciated that about her. The thing is, Isabel always means good. During the story you'll see how she wants to set Lily up with boys and how she'll react on Lily's behavior. It's a very funny thing to see because she really tries hard and means well with her intentions. I also feel like Isabel is someone readers will easily relate to. </div>
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Lastly, I would like to shine a light onto Lily's family! Oh boy, they're a handful! Lily has 3 siblings, one sister and two younger brothers and then her parents. During the book she'll explain how hard it is to have such a big family and how she feels about that. This is yet another thing that would be something people can relate to! Her siblings really gave me a very satisfying feeling. Her sister is more observant than I first thought which brings a very intriguing and special part to the book and her two younger siblings are just too cute for words. I really loved how Kasie West played the card of <i>the massive family</i>, especially because more contrast will be caused with the characters.</div>
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While Lily has a very busy and noisy family, her penpal has nothing: divorced parents who don't look after the penpal and a stepfather who absolutely doesn't like the penpal. I'm saying penpal because I just want to grab and hold onto its anonymity! The contrast between Lily's penpal and Lily is massive but still, they enjoy each other's company during the exchange.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWv6JZk2ipAT0DPqCnoL-hd8sjPYtLIjf2pM09IFkmv_Vc5V5l3Y_hGmlAUaFJjy6-llOi2IfVZ5Q5V6555diQo5gCVCEel2JnzVfmIt-a1SdAfedlDSIcRl8CrjZstJFXiFqc1KTxjXxw/s1600/16468833_772025072954188_463272116_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWv6JZk2ipAT0DPqCnoL-hd8sjPYtLIjf2pM09IFkmv_Vc5V5l3Y_hGmlAUaFJjy6-llOi2IfVZ5Q5V6555diQo5gCVCEel2JnzVfmIt-a1SdAfedlDSIcRl8CrjZstJFXiFqc1KTxjXxw/s320/16468833_772025072954188_463272116_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>I was really keen on seeing all these contrasts coming together to create the characters individually but also made them seem connected through it all. After all, in real life we're also very diverse but still connected to each other by our passions, dreams and feelings. That's also the thing I adored in <i>PS I Like You</i>, it's so realistic and so real which makes it very easy to relate and to feel with the characters! </div>
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Lastly, I really want to point out that, as in real life, society will have such an influence that I ADORED! Lily and her penpal will really show us how easy it is to get two faces because of society. Lily being very shy about her words because she don't want to be judged, her penpal by acting like another person so their secret is being kept. While they talk through letters, you'll notice how easy it became for the both of them to talk about the real them and I think it was an important message for us as well as something very unique and special to see during the read. </div>
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Now, the plot what other things can I say that it was just cute? When I envision Kasie West, I think instant cute! Yet this book, as all her other books, do have more than just cute. This story line was very intriguing because it really shone a light on how people act and how they really are.<br />
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As mentioned above, the characters will show a very diverse personality with each their own weaknesses and strengths. The plot will really close up on Lily and her penpal for this and show us how diverse you can actually be on daily basis (two faced in other words) and the cause of this. I really was keen on the underlying message in there. Or it might've been me that over-analysed it and thought there was a message! However, I feel like the author made a very special story line by letting the comparison of the <i>real life Lily</i> and the <i>Lily in the letters</i> go on for a while, it shows the reader the effects of the judging society and how Lily goes along with that.<br />
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The letters provide anonymity in this story which was another factor I was really keen on. First of, it made us get to know both Lily and her penpal way better because the anonymity made them open up and show their real selves. Secondly, it made the mystery come alive: who was at the other end?<br />
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And that other end of course will make sure this story will become cute and adorable. It's really about the letters at first but the plot will develop more and more towards the question about <i>who </i>is at the other end. Also this was something I really loved to see in the book because I was also very curious to that other end, although I have to say when the development is made it becomes more and more predictable.<br />
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Even before Lily discovers who it really is, the readers will already have known it for a long time. I think that's a negative side of the story, however I didn't mind it and still really enjoyed it. For others this might be the thing that makes them stop loving the story. I do have to say that after Lily knows who it is, the story will become less predictable! It's just the penpal who isn't a surprise at all.<br />
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Of course the plot isn't all about the penpal, but this is one of the important things. It's also about Lily overcoming her fears and her judgments towards herself and others! I already said that Lily is very passionate about music and she wants to get into a competition. Because of her noisy and loud family she doesn't have a lot of success with finding the right words, because of her penpal she does. However Lily is still shy to speak up and tell her lyrics. This story will also go onto the journey of opening up for this and finding your way around your weaknesses. I really was keen on that as well.<br />
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And of course there's Lily's family to give the plot a rest of the penpal and the competition and making room for funny encounters between the members. I really enjoyed these parts because they were so light and so humorous. I also absolutely <i>loved </i>her family and the weird habits they have just make you smile.<br />
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Lastly, readers will also really be able to enjoy the conflict that will present itself to Lily when she knows her penpal. Her judgments about the person will contradict with what she learned through the letters. It's really intriguing to see how she'll feel about it and how she'll solve this, if she'll solve this at all!<br />
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Although this book was predictable, I absolutely loved this book. It's all that I had expected from Kasie West, and once again she fulfilled my desires by giving me a very adorable, cute and funny read! The characters are absolutely amazing and also a reflection of so many real people out there. Their two sides, their side to please society and their side where they are themselves, were really raw and also really realistic and I just adored to see it in <i>PS I Like You</i>. Next to that, the readers are in for a very tender romance that starts with just the anonymity of writing with a stranger and the growing force of this. I also really liked it that we could go on and think about <i>who </i>the penpal may have been, although that was the most predictable part in this book. Yet I couldn't resist it and really fell head over heals with this book: predictable but oh so sweet! It's a great book and I hadn't expected anything less by this author. </div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>“You’re my favorite way to pass the time. But time stands still when you’re on my mind.”</b></span></span></div>
Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Arizona, Verenigde Staten34.0489281 -111.0937311000000127.330691099999996 -121.4208796 40.7671651 -100.76658260000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-17250319898525996192017-05-14T12:00:00.000+02:002017-05-14T12:00:35.304+02:00Reboot<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Time to review a book I have received for my birthday. It's a book that I've stumbled across multiple times in a bookstore, but always in Dutch and I prefer reading in English. So when it was my birthday, I finally asked for this book and received it. <b>Thanks </b>again! I absolutely enjoyed it: <b><span style="color: #351c75;">Reboot by Amy Tintera</span></b>.</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">Somewhere in the future, there's a life after death for most of us. We awake after we die, we're stronger, faster, we heal while we blink... that last part is true when you're a high number. Wren, 178, is in control. She's fast, heals and doesn't blink when someone shoots her and she doesn't feel. Once you awake, and the higher your number, your lack of emotions increases and you can kill for the ones that protect you. All is going great until Callum, 22, arrives in HARC and he wants her as his trainer. His low number only indicates one thing: emotions and Wren is not someone who likes that at all. When training does not succeed, she's asked to eliminate him. But something about 22 makes 178 doubt. The odds will not be in her favor if she declines...</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">First of all, the fact that you can wake up again after you die and the minutes between dying and living becomes your number, sounds awfully intriguing. I'm already wondering what number I'd be and what that'd mean.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As you already could have read in the synopsis of the book, Wren is a <i>very </i>high number. She's one of the over 120's with her 178 minutes. The higher the number the faster, stronger and less emotions. Everyone around the area has heard about the all too famous 178 who loves to chase people and then kill them as her order. They're scared of her. Wren never really cared about that and she always comes off really tough and controlled. I really loved to see that in a female character. Her steadiness really made her an intriguing character and her fighting skills might've been terrifying but I was <i>so </i>jealous. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Wren has been in HARC for 5 years, she doesn't remember things from the past and she just does what the bosses tell her to do: kill or get killed. Her emotions are gone and that also made her, in some way, a very vulnerable character, something I had not expected to see. People are so scared of her and even though she doesn't totally get why, that'll change soon enough when the newbies arrive.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Callum is one of the under 60's with his <i>very </i>low number: 22. He isn't as strong or fast, he won't heal fast and he will scream when he gets shot. Above that the lower the number, the less of a chance his emotions are gone. The first day he's in Callum's already tortured by the Reboots who've been in HARC for a very long time. It isn't until he sees Wren that he feels he might make it after all. After challenging her, Wren also chooses to train him with all the consequences of it. What really struck me with Callum was the fact that he was <i>hopeful</i>, even though his number is one of the very lowest. And he's also still very cheerful even though he's a reboot. At the beginning I did not know what to make of Callum, he was very eccentric, very happy and always smiling and secretly flirting with Wren. Callum is also a very gentle person who's very devoted to Wren and would never heart anyone, even if his own life dependent on it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This was such a huge contrast between the two and also a huge contrast between this book and all other books I have read. Sure the females are in most books also very strong, but here we saw the male being very dependent on the female and also their emotional balance seemed rather new to me in comparison to all other books. The fact that Callum was such a low number and therefore more emotional, also really changed Wren in small ways and made her turn with the wind and have an inner fight with herself: feel or don't feel. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEl433AR29VUDlHwprT3VsfHnDjvVgCtPwAWtVOUTdYy4qsbXdGIsF3sq8lXfy9UQlV326P-7dnB-zjLtUt-UQwMvIshA7sELmKNfB-XhWHOCIpO0L4p5Y8hhJOmzK80EhGAp5SYUXazDR/s1600/reboott.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEl433AR29VUDlHwprT3VsfHnDjvVgCtPwAWtVOUTdYy4qsbXdGIsF3sq8lXfy9UQlV326P-7dnB-zjLtUt-UQwMvIshA7sELmKNfB-XhWHOCIpO0L4p5Y8hhJOmzK80EhGAp5SYUXazDR/s320/reboott.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Although their bond began to grow at some point in the book, the author started to step up her game and also started to speed everything between these two up which was such a </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">downside in my opinion. In the beginning we could witness it grow slowly but surely and see how feeling things, friendship and all, affected Wren since she's not used to feeling emotional as such a high number. Luckily, the author recovered that later on which I'm really thankful for. However it did make sure that Wren was already super into the emotional things and that her inner fight suddenly stopped, too rushed in my opinion!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As for the plot, I really enjoyed the story. It all begins very foreign and mysterious: what are reboots and why do they have a number? Why are they part of HARC and not normal society.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It's very clear in the beginning that there's such a big hierarchy inside HARC and what Reboots mean to them: a weapon. HARC provides safety, food, shelter for the reboots and the reboots save humanity by clearing out the threats as they're made for those. They're the subjects and they have to listen. If they don't, dead will be upon them once again. Although this hierarchy won't be <i>that </i>obvious all the time, it's there in a very subtle way which I absolutely enjoyed in this series. It kept the characters in tow and the reader saw a reality of a dystopian future.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As already mentioned, the newbies will get trained and that means we'll also see a lot of action. I have to say that I was more thrilled in the beginning of the book than the middle section because in the beginning the focus really was on training, surviving and eliminating which I really found interesting to see in this world, very thrilling and very intriguing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Wren really gets influenced by HARC's sayings and Callum's ability to think for himself and think emotionally, this gives her the ability to start thinking for herself as well. And that makes her end up with rebelling inside of herself and making drastic decisions that will then end with something I thought we wouldn't see until later on in the book, or even in the next book. I have to say that it was very surprising, thrilling and also very enjoyable<i> (what I mean is something for you to find out) </i>but as I said before it's then that everything started to get rushed between Wren and Callum and also where the action really felt less suspenseful than inside of HARC.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Now Wren really needs to find out if HARC was really lying to her about all the "good" things they do for the Reboots and how many "good" things she's doing to return the favor. HARC won't make it any easier for her as they're constantly watching her. When her roommate starts to act differently just as all under sixties are behaving very weirdly, Wren is also going to transform into a person to really think for herself. The fact that something is up with the under sixties is something I hope we'll find out more about in the second book. We only touched the surface of what's going on with them and how it affects everyone but I hope to see more of it soon. The only remark towards the changes with the under sixties is that I didn't find it build up well enough, especially with Callum, nevertheless I'm still very curious to the next book!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">It's safe to say that I was very intrigued by the story and its characters. A whole new world about these creatures, the Reboots, opened in front of me and I was very into the whole fighting thing. Above that the main character really has an inner fight between what's right and what might have been lies. The book did not solve all of that immediately which only makes me very curious to the next book.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Although I really loved the bond between Wren and Callum, at some point in the book, their bond was a bit too sped up and therefore disappointing, but the author did recover from that later on. Also the mystery around Callum and what's going on with under-sixties wasn't build up too well in my opinion, but also makes me very curious to the next book as I want to find out a lot more. Other than that, I really enjoyed this world and can't wait to found out what will happen now and who the real enemy is.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>"5 years ago, I died. 178 minutes later, I woke up."</b></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0ROSA39.8874734 -74.99721950000002814.365438899999997 -116.30581350000003 65.4095079 -33.688625500000029tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3196377894123193352.post-47909725196311502862017-05-10T12:00:00.000+02:002017-05-10T12:00:15.964+02:00Bound<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Finally it's time to review a book that's been on my TBR pile for a very long time. I bought this book on the annual Book Feast last summer and I don't know why I have prolonged reading this one so long... I really don't know why and I don't approve of my behavior! A book that should be read by a lot more people: <b><span style="color: #351c75;">Bound by Sarah Bryant</span></b>.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_snKTThWlTAgaxj5_VsU-dyoa37ZKrh5lyBuOmhvfBd5llm_6b_PCilz87JwAdN7RlRFZUXhY3FbJRLaoOdMSH-8U7K1GRPZNzBkeGaWgD3vbKhldW9DnedLGgLwSfigf7wWyTdW3mpgR/s1600/IMG_7609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_snKTThWlTAgaxj5_VsU-dyoa37ZKrh5lyBuOmhvfBd5llm_6b_PCilz87JwAdN7RlRFZUXhY3FbJRLaoOdMSH-8U7K1GRPZNzBkeGaWgD3vbKhldW9DnedLGgLwSfigf7wWyTdW3mpgR/s320/IMG_7609.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">Sophie has been seeing strange things since she was a little kid. And those things have been scaring her and haunting her forever. Determined to never see the creatures again, she runs to the ends of the world. Or literally the pub "End of the World" where she starts working. Soon she finds out that coming here was a mistake as more creatures are haunting her and new creatures find their way to her. Above that, two strange boys she feels oddly connected to start acting extremely weird. There is more to the ends of the world than she had first thought...</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Wow, to this book. I remember scanning the rows of Young Adult on the Book Feast and being really happy because FINALLY there were English YA books this time. My eyes had scanned this one, picked it up, read the back and felt over it, but I wasn't entirely convinced and put it back. But sometimes, your little reader's heart tells you to go back and take it before you regret it. And boy oh boy am I one <i>lucky </i>girl to have picked it up and taken it with me because this book was a surprise!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">First and foremost our main character: Sophie. She's what the mystery is all around, when she was a very small kid she saw one of the <i>Revenants</i>. Strange creatures that came towards her, were drawn to her and absolutely scared the living crap out of her. So Sophie decides to run to the ends of the world and hope to outrun them there. When she arrives on a little island somewhere near Scotland, we finally get glimpses of her personality. She's very determined and composed, very witty with comments and also very curious of nature. Although her curiosity seems to be suppressed by her anxiety of these creatures. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">What I also really loved about this character next to her curiosity and determination, and her witty comments because they were funny, were her feelings towards her being seen as a mad person. People she told about the creatures thought she was just crazy and stupid while she's actually a very <i>wise </i>character. She picks up on all tricks by other characters, she picks up on the slightest details and this wise side of her will come in handy when the time comes. I really enjoyed seeing a girl being very wise in a story and she really shows us that part in <i>Bound</i>. She'll never forget anything, even if it has sunken to her deepest state of consciousness...</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">As for other characters in the book first of all I want to talk about the two guys that are actually pretty strange! Sam and Lucas, when our main character Sophie finds out about them there this weird vibe about them. They're both rich, they're both <i>very </i>isolated from the other townspeople which makes them rather weird youngsters. Soon Sophie also finds out they're very weird and feels a very odd connection to them but she doesn't know what it is exactly. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I like Sam because well, he's all that I had expected: he's the hot guy in town. Yet Sam has this very mysterious side that makes you really want to get to know him but also <i>not </i>get to know him. He'll really have a strange vibe which makes us doubt if we should actually trust him or not. As for Lucas, he's the introverted one, the opposite of Sam which I thought was a nice addition to the characters because it gave a lot of diversity. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Then there is Michael, I really adore this old man. He was a bit strange maybe but he was very friendly towards Sophie and open. He's also very wise and knows when to come to rescue in awkward situations so I really liked this character although I had hoped to know him a bit better than we do now. I feel like he'd also have a very unique background which I wished to see more of.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Lastly, there's Ailsa! I really loved this character as well because she was very open and also very girly! She's all you'd expect from a character that becomes friends with Sophie: more eccentric than Sophie; who's more composed. Ailsa made sure that the book had a very outgoing taste and really helps to build up the story!</span></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Now the plot! The first few things you'll notice is the big mystery. Sophie decides to hold back on us in the beginning and we don't really know who or <i>what </i>she's talking about until she comes forward with it. When she does though, not all mystery is resolved because this book is just one big mystery read! Characters will have weird conversations where Sophie and the reader eavesdrop, weird circumstances, strange dreams. This book is one mystery for both reader and main character which I found a very great thing in <i>Bound</i>. Both the reader and Sophie are out on a very deep secret and we'll have to discover it together which makes Sophie a very relatable character because you will connect with her through it all.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF1c5dz6I6qsXPfSytczpPc8_tMoQZbfscFe_yp3mLUPIUd1BVwKJOoEMsmUuyXGRh2BqAXdD0IyWx5hAa8RYW4peIYOV_YvwE3miWJURpKtMFgHeekX0VjGNyeWwI7zUXNH-tReGKZ7pN/s1600/mp.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF1c5dz6I6qsXPfSytczpPc8_tMoQZbfscFe_yp3mLUPIUd1BVwKJOoEMsmUuyXGRh2BqAXdD0IyWx5hAa8RYW4peIYOV_YvwE3miWJURpKtMFgHeekX0VjGNyeWwI7zUXNH-tReGKZ7pN/s320/mp.png" width="318" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">But it's not only weird circumstances or conversations, it's also the townspeople. As I already said before, the characters will show a wide diversity of personalities and the author will make use of that. Some characters are holding something back and you'll notice but what is it exactly is still part of the bigger plot. You might think it lies in their diversity but what if that isn't true? This really made it a nice read as well because all the little things are connected to something big but you can't put your finger onto it because you need to know everything in order to discover. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">And of course there're also the mysterious creatures that are following Sophie everywhere that we know nothing about. First there were only the <i>Revenants</i>, but as soon as Sophie sets foot on the little island a lot more creatures will come her way. I was really pleased with this because these creatures opened up a very wide world of diversity in the paranormal aspect but will still surprise you with what's <i>actually </i>roaming around! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The paranormal activity does give the reader a very nice opportunity to guess what they are and rule it out during the plot. I for instance first thought there were ghosts but then something happens and I'd say they weren't ghosts but reincarnations maybe or mythological creatures. It's a great asset to the book because you'll be searching for the answers and those answers lie in those creatures as well!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Lastly there are the dreams Sophie has. I must say I was very surprised by these dreams because I had never expected dreams to have any part in this. Yet I was very pleased with them because there's a girl in those dreams and she only talks in riddles and cryptic messages. It did add more to the mystery as well as the thrill and suspense to what is actually going on.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Once we finally find out what this is all about, I was really surprised. I thought the book wouldn't be able to surprise me this much because it already gave so much to be surprised about. Yet this was something I hadn't even thought about, even though if I had paid closer attention I could have guessed it! Some more clever ones will get it a lot faster but I did really enjoy the fact that I could really search for the answers in my own imagination while checking in with the main character if she thought about this as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Lastly I'd like to point out that the plot doesn't really tell us everything at once, I felt like there were part of the truths we got to know along the way by circumstances and things that happened. Although you felt like you'd finally knew, the characters who influence the plot still hold back. They stayed quiet because they were bound to and this causes us to wait a little bit longer in suspense. But when you find out the truth a new world of mystery, secrets and people who want to harm them opens in front of you and it just gives so much tension to it all that I absolutely devoured the book. And then <i>that </i>ending! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I do want to say that I sometimes was a bit confused because we didn't really have any truth to hold on to since our character was just dropped in all of this just like us. However I did still really enjoy it and can't wait for the sequel or well, next part, in the series: <i>Riven</i>.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPQiieFGQvMYr5v5VOVmS9LtV2X319gPfHCXGxKeEQI0q-TNW4xjvyuqR7ItwIqcyLdAtwN6oLikaOWe1JwC1PP6i5YQw53GGaI8X-_B-8vp-rSJrpiuOcglk6pR88C5B_6Kmto7ZiOuTm/s1600/IMG_7666.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPQiieFGQvMYr5v5VOVmS9LtV2X319gPfHCXGxKeEQI0q-TNW4xjvyuqR7ItwIqcyLdAtwN6oLikaOWe1JwC1PP6i5YQw53GGaI8X-_B-8vp-rSJrpiuOcglk6pR88C5B_6Kmto7ZiOuTm/s320/IMG_7666.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">To conclude this review I'd really like to point out how underrated this book is and how much I want it to change! This book was such a great one to read and I absolutely devoured it. At the start we're already confronted with the mystery around the main character and what she's exactly seeing. The fact that both reader and character didn't know what these creatures actually were made it a very pleasant read, because we get the possibility think for ourselves and come up with theories and rule them out along the way. Also the townspeople are a great asset to the book as they are also very strange and add to the mystery alongside the weird dreams Sophie has been having. The book really is one big mystery where everyone is bound to keep silent and this makes the reader frustrated as well as eager to find out what everything is about. When we finally realize what's going on and who we're dealing with, we're in for such a surprise and close to the ending that will leave you shivering in disbelieve!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>"There are no such things as monsters, Sophie told herself. No demons, no witches, no ghosts..."</b></span>Ericahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15356044798242919785noreply@blogger.com0Schotland, Verenigd Koninkrijk56.490671199999987 -4.202645800000027547.764661199999985 -24.856942800000027 65.216681199999982 16.451651199999972