Eclipse | Audiobook

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.” 

Ceaseless

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?"

Ascend

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 Ascend by Amanda Hocking.

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 Ascend because you know more information than you already should. Therefore, I recommend you not to read the review of Ascend but to read the review about the first in the series: Switched. If you're interested in the second book, Torn, 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.

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? 

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? The ultimate question remains: will she'll be able to save everyone? 

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.

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.

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 Ascend!) 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. 

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.

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. 

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!

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.

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. 

I feel like the author really took time to set apart all the responsibilities Wendy will have to carry to amplify the weight on her shoulders, as well as really show 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. 

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!

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. 

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 Ascend 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.

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.

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 Ascend, I think you can find it online as an e-book type but I'm not sure. What I can say about Ever After 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! 

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.

“I will make this world a better place, whether they like it or not. That’s the fun of being Queen.” 

Predestined

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.” 

Anticipated releases!

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 anticipated releases!

Just Friends by Tiffany Pitcock
Release date: 1st august 2017
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! 


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.

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.

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!

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. 

Love & Luck by Jenna Evans Welch
Release date: 1st May 2018
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 Love & Gelato which I fell in love with the moment I saw the cover.

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 loved 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.

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 Love & Gelato's so that makes it even more thrilling in my opinion.

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.
So when Addie discovers an unusual guidebook, Ireland for the Heartbroken, hidden in the dusty shelves of the hotel library, she’s able to finally escape her anxious mind and Ian’s criticism.

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.

That is if they don’t get completely lost along the way. 

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 Love & Gelato so I'm hoping that this won't be any different. I really loved the author's first book so my expectations are high!

If you're interested in reading my review on the first book by Jenna Evans Welch, the review on Love & Gelato is HERE! It was my summer read of July 2016 so it's absolutely a recommendation to read during summer!

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 Love & Luck since it comes out May but it's not summer yet... we'll have to see!

Tell me three things

Time for a book by a new author and also a book that I really 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: Tell me three things by Julie Buxbaum!

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 SN, 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... 

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.

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.

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! 

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. 

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. 

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.

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 Tell me three things 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. 

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. 

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! 

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!

At last there's the title that's being used in the book and got me very excited! Tell me three things 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. 

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!

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!

"Perfect days are for people with small, realisable dreams. Or maybe for all of us, they just happen in retrospect;"

My first poem book | Love & space dust

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 very hard to find! However I did just finish it and I have to say... I'm in love! My ever first poem book: Love & Space dust by David Jones!

 "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.

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!

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...

Because finding this book was not an easy thing!

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! 

Love & Space 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.

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 Goodreads 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!

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! 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! 

"We are nothing but //  Space dust // Trying to find // Its way back to // The stars."

The Problem with Forever

It took me two months to finish this book and no 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 again! The Problem with Forever by Jennifer L. Armentrout.

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. 
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...

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! 

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.

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.

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. 

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?

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 loved 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. 

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.

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...

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.

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! 

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.

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! 

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 awkward 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.


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! 

“Forever was something we all took for granted, but the problem with forever was that it really didn't exist.”