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: Eclipse by Stephanie Meyer.
WARNING For the ones here that haven't read the first in this series, I recommend you not to read on since there will be further developments to the characters and to the plot. This will create a less pleasant read of Eclipse because you know more information than you already should. Therefore, I recommend you not to read the review of Eclipse but to read the review about the first in the series: Twilight. If you're interested in the second book, New Moon, I also wrote a review about that book. Just clicking on the title will open a new page with the review on the first book.
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.
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...
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...
Even though Bella still is one of my favorites and still showed me sides of her we saw in New Moon, 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.
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.
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.
Now as for the guys, I got more opinions right there. Beginning with an overall comment: how immature are they?! Eclipse 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.
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 Eclipse, 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.
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 New Moon. Of course there are scenes where Jacob is like that, but overall I just did not enjoy him because of his immature behavior.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
“I am Switzerland. I refuse to be affected by territorial disputes between mythical creatures.”
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 to be read-list 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: Ceaseless by Abbi Glines.
WARNING For the ones here that haven't read the first in this series, I recommend you not to read on since there will be further developments to the characters and to the plot. This will create a less pleasant read of Ceaseless because you know more information than you already should. Therefore, I recommend you not to read the review of Ceaseless but to read the review about the first in the series: Existence. If you're interested in the second book, Predestined, I also wrote a review about that book. Just clicking on the title will open a new page with the review on the first book.
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?
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 holy alien babies everywhere I adore him! Especially in Ceaseless 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.
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 Existence 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.
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 hello, 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!
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.
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 still 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.
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.
Another and last remark I want to point out is that I wish Ceaseless 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 Predestined in Ceaseless. This story more felt like a one-book-story and not as if it fit into a series. I think if more elements of Existence and Predestined 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.
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!
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.
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.
“What if she never remembers?"
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 eternity. 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, Predestined by Abbi Glines, and I have to tell you: it got better!
WARNING For the ones here that haven't read the first in this series, I recommend you not to read on since there will be further developments to the characters and to the plot. This will create a less pleasant read of Predestined because you know more information than you already should. Therefore, I recommend you not to read the review of Predestined but to read the review about the first in the series: Existence. Just clicking on the title will open a new page with the review on the first book.
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.
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.
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! Predestined has surprised me in such a good way and I'm also really happy with how the characters evolved!
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 Predestined. 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.
Did I hate seeing this in her character? Absolutely not. 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.
As for our sweet, beloved Dank! Gah, I absolutely adore him. His protectiveness that we saw in Existence hasn't changed at all and I just love how he is around Pagan. This time around he even gets his own chapters 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.
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.
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.
As for the plot, I have to say I was absolutely amazed 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.
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. 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.
As this is the second book and we already know Pagan's ability, Predestined 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.
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!
A thing I hadn't expected in Predestined 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 Existence, I feel like Predestined 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.
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!
I absolutely adored the second book. Comparing the first book to the second book, Predestined, 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 learned
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!
“He's already proven he'll defy Heaven to keep her. If Hell wants a piece of him too, then bring it on.”
A little while back, I tried out the first in a series that I had always told myself you will not read it! 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 New Moon by Stephenie Meyer and enjoyed this one a lot more than Twilight!
Note: 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 Twilight HERE!
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?
First I'd really love to talk about Bella because I finally know how I feel about her! In my review of Twilight 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.
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 Twilight.
As for Edward, of course I still like him. Just as in the review on Twilight 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 Twilight will also disappear; which I'm grateful for. I felt like in New Moon we saw even 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 and kindness.
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 adore 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 really enjoyable! Sometimes he's also so unknowing which made him even funnier.
As for a character we saw briefly in Twilight, 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).
Now the plot was also a whole new thing. Twilight 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.
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 is 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.
New Moon 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.
However for everyone who thinks this would be boring because there is no action, hold up! There is! Things seem solved after Twilight, 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!
Which brings me to the feelings, the first book in the series was very cliche and had me rolling my eyes so much. The romance was just too much and too thick but New Moon really changes all that. There will be place for friendship, loss, funny parts but of course there's still romance. I'm really happy that the romance is much tender and sweeter instead of the over-romantic-eye-rolling-cliche!
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!
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 New Moon really surprised me by turning out a lot more different than I had expected!
I enjoyed this book far better than Twilight! 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!
“Forbidden to remember, terrified to forget; it was a hard line to walk.”
Finally! I got my hands onto a book that I wanted for ages but could never find in any of my bookstores: "out of stock" situation! Yet finally, I got around it and ordered the book: Existence by Abbi Glines, and I feel so happy to have it! Although I did feel a bit disappointed by it and really hope the other books are better!
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: souls. 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...
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 want 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.
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 needy and judgmental kind of girl. A side I rather not see in her!
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!
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.
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. I felt like that really really 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.
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 so needy (this more towards the end) which then again ruined it a bit in my opinion.
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. Thank the Bookgods! 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 finally 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.
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 he. knows. more. 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.
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 did menage to give the reader a satisfying ending though!
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 was 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!
I have to say I fairly enjoyed the book but really 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.
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!
"He's about to break all the rules."
Today feels like a special day! Why, you might ask. Well, this time I'll review a book I never, ever thought I'd even touch with one finger. I'm already known for not going and taking books that are very popular. (AKA The Hunger Games) but every now and then, I decide against my instincts and touch them anyway. However this was a series I absolutely never thought to betray myself with! I'm talking about Twilight by Stephanie Meyer.
When Bella moves to a rainy town, Forks, with her dad she never expected to have a very interesting life in it. She hates cold, she hates rain, she hates dark days and hates the fact that she'll live in Forks. However when she discovers the beautiful family Cullen, she thinks very differently about her existence in Forks. She tries to reach out to one of the Cullen guys but he only gives her angry looks and a very bad feeling. Speaking of bad, there is more to this bad guy that she first thought. It might even become very dangerous...
Really, I don't think I need to explain a lot about this series. It's a highly spoken and appreciated series that everyone, or at least almost everyone, has read before and hyped about. I remember that I never wanted to see the movies! That was even before I got into reading, many many years before, I already wanted to hate it! However, there was one evening where I found my way to the first movie... betrayed myself by watching it... on Youtube back then when the titles were "Twilight part 1 of the 14" and I had to watch it in bits and pieces. And then I became fan of the movies... watched them in the movie theaters! I then told myself: no! not the books!
Today I am here with the first book and the rest of the series coming along the way! However I need to be honest: I didn't love it. I enjoyed it enough to go pick out the next few books yes, but love was never there like it was with The Hunger Games.
First of all, Bella. I can't really tell if I like her or not. I feel like often she made me like her but at certain moments like when she starts overreacting about the littlest thing, I can't find myself liking her at all. What I did really enjoy about this character was the fact that we got to know the fact that she suppressed bad feelings like fear and hurt. This was something we never quiet got to understand during the movie since we didn't know her thoughts. And it cleared the fact that she wasn't afraid of vampires, or Edward. The book will therefore bring a few things about her in perspective and I really enjoyed that.
What I also enjoyed about this character was her interest in books, the movie doesn't really show that but since Bella enjoys books, I felt like I could relate better to her in some way. Also the way she acts around Edward was something I can't really stop myself from enjoying. Although sometimes she overreacted and was over romantic I started doubting this character. She often tried to hide certain things from him and that was nice to see develop to why and how she would do certain things when it came to him. Overall, I most of the time, did find enjoyable feelings about this character.
As for Edward, I like him. It's hard not to really! Every person that's a bit paranormal grabs my attention and finds a way to my heart... even Edward. Also this character became mad for a lot of little things and sometimes was over-romantic but it was less laid on there in comparison to Bella. This character really showed you that he was mature (most of the time) and that was parallel with his age so I loved the fact that it was realistic (well, not that vampires are realistic but you get what I mean!). I also enjoyed the fact that he was very protective over Bella and wanted her to be save, it was very cute and not too corny to my taste. Edward was probably my most enjoyed character in this book.
Now the plot! First of all I really want to point out the huge difference with the movie. I often thought I knew how this was going to go down, but I was absolutely surprised! This book is so different from the movie that it felt like a new story I've never heard or seen of before. Readers who haven't read the book but did see the movie will be surprised when it comes to this! It gave such a new spin to Twilight as well as a new taste and I liked that! Very refreshing if you ask me !
You might have already guessed my next point: the romance. Many times I have rolled my eyes at this romance. For me personally, it often got to corny and cliché which didn't make the plot always feel right to me. However, at times readers like me will find the love in it and enjoy it too. It sometimes just got too cheesy for me that it became a bit unbearable. Overall I could appreciate it enough.
What missed in my point was the action. I liked the plot, it wasn't boring, especially because it was refreshing in comparison to the movie and I love the discovering the truth about Edward! I would have just appreciated the plot more and enjoyed it more if there was action. The movie does a greater thing in this part. Tension and thrill are already known at the beginning of the movie. Here we wait until the very last bit of the plot before we finally get new characters involved that don't want romance but action, thrill, tension, suspicion and a game. That made me feel very thrilling and exciting. So if this would have been played out sooner and spread over the whole book, I would have felt this a lot and enjoyed the book even more!
Don't get me wrong, as I said before: the plot isn't boring! Especially because it's so much more different than the movie it felt new and good. The romance maybe was a bit too corny at times but overall I really enjoyed the book... I just didn't love it like most people expect! The characters also often brought me to laugh but also roll my eyes at the clichés but that aside the characters were great too. I enjoyed Twilight enough to check out the rest of the series though!
I conclude this review by saying that I didn't love the book but I enjoyed it enough to probably check out the rest of the series. I'm really curious if their mental age will evolve and make the books less corny and cliché. Don't get me wrong, I laughed often enough with the characters and felt with them during the read, but they became too many times angry for stupid things that caused me to roll my eyes a lot during Twilight. Although I didn't think the plot was boring, I did wish to see the threat of the bad guys spread over the plot and not all rushed at the end of the book. That said, I really missed the thrill and action through the rest of Twilight and often it was too romantic to my taste that it became painful for my eyes each time I rolled them. I did really love the fact that the book shows a huge difference to the movie. This is also another asset to the book that will make me check out the rest of the series. I might have not loved it but I sure did find it really interesting and enjoyable to read!
“I like the night. Without the dark, we'd never see the stars.”
It is time to say goodbye to yet another fantastic series. I have to say, I was actually scared of starting the last in this series because I didn't want it to end and break my heart... It didn't break my heart, well it did by ending, but I'm really happy and satisfied with the end we get presented. It's also a series in my favorite themes of all: angels. Without further ado: Burn by Paula Weston.
Note: This is the last book in a series, if you haven't read the first one, second or third one, I highly recommend NOT to read on. A lot of things will have taken place and changes will be noticed during the review because the story has already advanced. If you are curious, I wrote a review on all the previous books!
Review on Shadows HERE
Review on Haze HERE
Review on Shimmer HERE
They remember. Both Gaby and Jude now remember everything that has happened before they lost their memories. All the feelings, from love to pain, all come back to smack them across the face. And all that while a threat is hanging right above their heads. Readying for battle, Gaby and Jude have difficulties with adjusting themselves now they remember their pasts. All the bad that has been done to Gaby makes her doubt about the new relationships she has made. But doesn't the past year change things?
Over the course of three books, I've noticed all these changes with the characters. Even with the new ones who only turned up later on in the series! And this time the changes are the biggest ever, especially because the memories have been resurfaced. During the flashbacks in the book, we could even see how big of a change there was between then and now and I absolutely adored to see that.
Especially with Gaby because she's our main character and the girl we follow in this story. Now the memories are back, we see that Gaby is going to have a hard time adjusting, just like Jude. This is something that really made me happy because it'd be ignorant if they just stayed the way they were and acted as if nothing has changed. Gaby's behavior shows such a contrast! I was actually quiet shocked to see that some things were as they had said in the past books. However, this contrast really makes sure that this character will know a huge development through Burn.
The contrast just made sure that Gaby started to feel bad in her skin, because who is she now? Past Gaby or present Gaby? And which one does she prefer. Above readying herself for battle, she'll have a hard time finding back her rhythm and finding out who she really is. This uncertainty in her was something I really absolutely enjoyed seeing because it made her more vulnerable but also a lot stronger in the end.
Then we have Jude, I don't have a lot to say about him because what I just said about Gaby, also applies to him! I did feel like Jude had a much easier time to adjust only to be knocked down later in the book. He'll also have a moment of vulnerability when the verdict is there, but as always he is very well supported by everyone. Although his adjustment was a bit easier, he has a lot to explain and has a new burden upon his shoulders. I really enjoyed to see how he was going to tackle that as I feel he has had a much easier time remembering and also a much easier time fitting back into the Rephaim life when he found Gaby back.
Then there's Rafa, I feel like we haven't seen that much of him like the books before but still enough to enjoy the life my book boyfriend is living. He has warned Gaby over the course of 3 books that if she remembered, she wouldn't be happy. Now she remembers! That really gives this character a whole new personality trait: insecurity. Also he is wondering which Gaby will be staying and how her reaction will be afterwards. He has a very hard time with believing in forgiveness if she would ever be able to provide that. And also his best friend, Jude, has lied to him before last year which makes him really feel defeated. I really loved to see this change in him, this feeling of not being good enough to have known and not being good enough for Gaby. Of course we'll mostly see his strong attitude and big words, but at some moments these bad feelings of him would shine through and crack his shield which I enjoyed seeing.
Each of the characters has really shown their weaknesses during this read and their vulnerability. It'll be very well known by the readers as we'll see what has been going down in the past. Now we can compare everything and see how much they have changed. Also their mistakes will be known now, after 3 books and that will add to the feelings they all show. Above that, seeing their insecurities now everything is back really makes them very relatable as we all have known a moment or period where we questioned ourselves and others.
Before I stop talking about the characters I'd like to just point one thing out about Ez and Zak! I actually really loved these characters in this series: they're very strong, very caring and sweet but their relationship really caught my eye. I felt like in Burn, we even saw it more clearly and they just make me think about Rosalie and Emmett with the intimacy of Jasper and Alice. Am I going crazy?
Since every memory is back, the author will provide the readers with flashback of two important periods that define the characters right now. I was a bit scared in the beginning that the flashbacks would take over the whole plot as they were a big chunks, but I am really relieved to say that that wasn't the case at all. Of course the flashbacks take some space, but the plot of the now will not be shorter or therefore very fast paced to fit into the book.
The flashbacks provide a lot of answers for the readers and I think that's a great thing in the book because the flashbacks don't give the answer to the greater thing that's happening. A lot will become clear like the relationship between characters, it'll be explained which also makes the readers pick a side: the new one or the old one, based on the new knowledge we know now. Readers will be really satisfied with knowing what actually happened to many years ago and why that made the other Rephaim act the way they did. However as I already mentioned, we know a lot of new things now but there's still that mystery lurking towards everything we don't know yet like what part of Nathanial is real? What is going on?
When the characters aren't trying to decided who they are and what they want, they're busy with the threat that's coming up next. Nathaniel has been talking a lot about prophecies and the purpose of the Rephaim but is this actually what they'll find out during this fight? They don't know if this was the fight that everyone has been talking about that would happen and that creates a form of uncertainty with the Rephaim. They don't know what's coming their way and if they'll be able to stop it. The tension only becomes thicker because Jude and Gaby need to tell they remember and also tell what happened a year ago, when both disappeared. The camp is already divided between Sanctuary and Outcasts and with the knowledge of Gaby remembering, it brings all Outcasts on a fit because which Gaby is she?
Eventually the battle does come, whether or not both parties know who to trust and if they want to trust at all and the fight is like we could expect very phenomenal. A lot bigger than all the fights we've seen before and it really brings so much action and thrill for the reader. Especially because the scene is really well described and the vibes that come of the weather and the characters really adds to that. And although I want to go on, I can't because what happens during and after the battle was something huge and just unbelievable. I think this is the part where I have been the most confused and shocked and surprised in this whole series. It's not that I mean the confusion because the author wrote it bad, I mean confusion as in waw this is not what I had expected and this is all new and I need a translator to tell me what on heaven and earth is going on! And that doesn't only mean for the reader, each and every character from Gaby to Daniel to even Nathaniel and so on, will have these mutual feelings. It's just a huge surprise!
The author really goes out with a boom, she gives enough information and enough details to really understand now and to be able to close the series with a beautiful and satisfying ending. What I admired most in the ending really was that even though you know now and even though this really feels like the end, you can still dream a bit further and wonder what will be up next and I really appreciate to have that. I'm not someone who likes open endings, and it's nothing like that but it still gives room for thought and that is something I really like.
Waw, I can't believe that this series has come to an end! Burn is the last part in the series and even though it hurts me that it is, it gives you such a satisfying and beautiful end that the pain lessens! This is the book where we finally get all the answers we've been waiting on for 3 books and I am so surprised and shocked because everything turned out much more different than I and probably many other readers had anticipated. I do have to be honest, I thought that the book was going to be all flashbacks and less plot of the now but I had to re-think about that. The plot isn't only flashbacks which I really appreciate, it's a nice balance between the now and then and really gives more food for thought. The readers themselves will be able to find out the truth and make conspiracy theories alongside the characters while absorbing the feels. The characters are once again amazing and have known such a big development through the series, I can't be anything but absolutely happy and satisfied! This series is really a huge recommendation!
“Pride. Blame. Longing. Truth."
