Review: A Witch in Winter

A Witch in Winter (The Winter Trilogy: Book 1)
Release Date: 5th January 2012
Pages: 346
Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
Author: Ruth Warburton
Source: Purchased at Bookstore
Purchase Book: Amazon UK | Amazon US

Goodreads:
Anna Winterson doesn't know she's a witch and would probably mock you for believing in magic, but after moving to the small town of Winter with her father, she learns more than she ever wanted to about power. When Anna meets Seth, she is smitten, but when she enchants him to love her, she unwittingly amplifies a deadly conflict between two witch clans and splits her own heart in two. She wants to love Seth, to let him love her—but if it is her magic that's controlling his passion, then she is as monstrous as the witch clan who are trying to use her amazing powers for their own gain. When love is tangled up in magic, how do you know what's real?

Trailer:

Review:
A Witch in Winter is the first in The Witch Trilogy told in the first person. Anna, a young girl tell us her story of her new life with her father after her mother left them. They start fresh in a town called Winter. From the get go, with a name like Wicker House, you already get the sense something will be eerie about their new house. One thing Anna doesn't know... she is a witch, from a long line of witches, who unfortunately learn the trade from their mothers. With no mum in tow, it's up to Anna to figure out what and who she is. It gave me a quick flashback to Spellcaster as the mothers keep abandoning their families and daughters who aren't full witches.
When Anna finally discovers she has powers, she takes it all in stride and you get the sense she is just an ordinary girl, nothing out of the ordinary, which was a relief for a change. That is until she meets a new group of witches, new friends and Seth. 

It reminds me of those moments when teenage girls wish they could enchant a boy to fall in love with them... well Anna and her new friends accidentally do it without evening knowing. Unfortunately, while Anna might really like Seth, having a boy fall madly in love with you under a spell doesn't feel the same. Even if they break the spell, how will she know if it is truly broken or if Seth really loves her? Now that is torment! My only negative comment on this is that Seth isn't too memorable in my opinion, not a heartbreaker that you want to dive into the book for. But who knows, my opinion could change in book two.

Aside from this little complicated romance, there is a battle looming between two groups of witches, sort of like the Cullens vs Volturi. It's normal witches sick of a group of witches trying to control their way of life. The cool thing about it is that they use their magic to fight, but again I really felt like I was comparing it to the Breaking Dawn battle scene, even though I tried not to.

I chose this book solely on reviews online and recommendations from fellow book bloggers. There was a lot of chatter around it, and I felt like another YA witch book.

Cover:
Simple cover with a girl and a backdrop of a house and lightning. Nothing too spectacular, but not dull either.

Final Comments:
This book was interesting, I read through it fairly quickly. I'm not going to spoil the ending, but there really wasn't an expected cliff hanger leaving me wanting to read on. I almost thought there was no book two. 
I'm always a fan of giving new British writers a shot, and was pleased with the first book. I recommend it to YA fans who like a bit of witchery, or someone looking for a light book that you can fly through. Not too heavy, not too light... just right! On to book two!

Rating:

New Series: Witch Finder

I am currently in the middle of writing my review for A Witch in Winter and stumbled across a new series being written by Ruth Warburton - Witch Finder. I haven't read much about it except the blurbs and a few reviews, but as we all know, every review is different and you can't honestly judge it until you read it yourself. I would say it is an on the fence book at the moment from what I have read, but you have to admit, the digital cover is pretty cool (to the right)!

Aside from the cover, this book intrigues me because it is based in London in an era that I love to read about. Also due to the fact I used to work in Spitalfields and developed an interest in it's rich history. Throw in some witches, it may be a good read. 

The book is out now, so if you loved Ruth's Winter Trilogy, you can grab a copy now as the book came out in January. If you have read it, feel free to get in touch with your review so I can share them along with my review when I finally get my hands on a copy.

Goodreads:
London. 1880. In the slums of Spitalfields apprentice blacksmith Luke is facing initiation into the Malleus Maleficorum, the fearsome brotherhood dedicated to hunting and killing witches.

Luke’s final test is to pick a name at random from the Book of Witches, a name he must track down and kill within a month, or face death himself. Luke knows that tonight will change his life forever. But when he picks out sixteen-year-old Rosa Greenwood, Luke has no idea that his task will be harder than he could ever imagine.

Review: Spellcaster

Spellcaster
Release Date: 1st March 2013
Pages: 389
Publisher: HarperCollinsPublishers Australia
Author: Claudia Gray
Source: Purchased at Kmart
Purchase Book: Amazon UK | Amazon US

Goodreads:
When Nadia's family moves to Captive’s Sound, she instantly realizes there’s more to it than meets the eye. Descended from witches, Nadia senses a dark and powerful magic at work in her new town. Mateo has lived in Captive’s Sound his entire life, trying to dodge the local legend that his family is cursed - and that curse will cause him to believe he’s seeing the future … until it drives him mad. When the strange dreams Mateo has been having of rescuing a beautiful girl—Nadia—from a car accident come true, he knows he’s doomed. 

Despite the forces pulling them apart, Nadia and Mateo must work together to break the chains of his family’s terrible curse, and to prevent a disaster that threatens the lives of everyone around them. Shimmering with magic and mystery, New York Times bestselling author Claudia Gray’s new novel is sure to draw fans of the Hex Hall and Caster Chronicles series, and fans of the hit CW TV show The Secret Circle.

Trailer:

Review:
Spellcaster is a paranormal YA - the first in a trilogy by Claudia Gray (pseudonym). Like the last book, I chose this book based on the cover and the blurb, which caught me on the promise of a star-crossed romance.
Nadia, her father and brother move to Captive's Sound to start fresh after her mother left them. Nadia is descendant from witches, and as the rule goes, the mother teaches the daughter how to develop her magic and no man born of a woman can ever know the truth about witches. Well with her mum out of the picture, her magic may be strong, but not developed enough to take on something bigger, which is a problem considering something is brewing in the new town.

Something unique about the way Claudia reinvented witches is through spells. Instead of mixing potions, spells are done through memories, thoughts and emotions while touching pendants on jewellery. One example is when she did a spell to part water. She thought "The love of a child. A living thing rising from the earth. Hope through grief" as she touched her pendant. However this didn't work on its own, she then had to think about old memories - her brother taking his first step, spring and their move. It was a bit of a risk for Claudia to do this, but kudos for trying something new. The downside to this is it got a bit annoying for me and I found myself skipping past her memories.

The entire town seems to be ridden with magic, secrets, curses, mysterious deaths and strange behaviour. It is Nadia's mission to find out what is causing everything and to be an end to it, to save her family, new friends, the town and new love interest.
In terms of the characters, they are a bit weak, but I put it down to the curses and I have a feeling they will build up in the next book. There isn't as much drama as I expected, which is refreshing.

Down to the reason I chose this book - the promise of a star-crossed romance between Nadia and Mateo. Sadly I was disappointed in the lack of any romance. It was the equivalent to two children holding hands in a playground - a lack of passion and no connection. I finished the book wondering if the main characters wanted to be together at all. Claudia writes as though they were in love and meant to be, but based on the events in the story, nothing happens beyond a glance or two.

Cover:
Simple and magical cover with a great choice of fonts and colours. The cover doesn't give anything from the story away, except that it's about a girl.

Final Comments:
This book was good, however I found that it dragged on a bit and I was just waiting for things to happen. It has some interesting bits and I think the overall story is strong, but the build up is so slow that it took me several attempts to read it. There is a cliff hanger which is expected, and I liked most of the characters, but it just didn't have a wow factor for me. 
The story continues with Steadfast which will be out in March this year.

Rating:

Review: Switched

Switched
Release Date: 5th January 2012 (first published 2010)
Pages: 335
Publisher: Tor
Author: Amanda Hocking
Source: Purchased at Kmart
Purchase Book: Amazon UK | Amazon US

Goodreads:
When Wendy Everly was six years old, her mother was convinced she was a monster and tried to kill her. Eleven years later, Wendy discovers her mother might have been right. She’s not the person she’s always believed herself to be, and her whole life begins to unravel—all because of Finn Holmes.

Finn is a mysterious guy who always seems to be watching her. Every encounter leaves her deeply shaken…though it has more to do with her fierce attraction to him than she’d ever admit. But it isn’t long before he reveals the truth: Wendy is a changeling who was switched at birth—and he’s come to take her home.

Now Wendy’s about to journey to a magical world she never knew existed, one that’s both beautiful and frightening. And where she must leave her old life behind to discover who she’s meant to become…

Review:
Switched is the first in the series of the Trylle trilogy. I actually picked this book with my grandpa. He was trying to help me find a new book to read when he spotted the cover. I do as I always do, read the blurb on the back and give it a quick google. Didn't sound too shabby.

It tells the story of Wendy Everly, a bored girl that feels unloved and no sense of belonging, which is only made more real when her mother tries to kill her when she was six, claiming that she was a monster and didn't belong in her family. It makes you think, what could a little girl do so wrong to make her mother claim she isn't hers... She is raised by her loving brother Matt and aunt Maggie. That is until a mysterious boy named Finn shows up in her life and convinces her to run away with him to her real home and place where she belongs.... in Forening, home to the Trylle (trolls). In Trylle, Wendy discovers a new magical place, where she is important for a change, however darker forces are looking to tear everything apart before it begins.

When I first realised this was a book about trolls, I thought if an author can put an interesting spin on it, then I could at least give it a go. This book was pretty good - interesting, engaging and told in the first person. A refreshing break from what I usually read. Not a thriller or a romance, just a cool YA fantasy novel.

Wendy is not your average teen, which I was pleasantly surprised with. She is a handful but it is her attitude and desperation to find where she belongs that eventually wins you over. Plus she doesn't let anyone push her around. She is also a big deal, destined for greatness!
In terms of supporting characters, we get an interesting group of guys and gals, some potential love interests and others what I envision could be best friends. I have yet to read the second book, so I can't predict anything yet. Finn of course wins hands down for the hotty of the book. He does frustrate me at times - one of those guys that wants something, but doesn't really chase after it. One of my favourites is actually Matt, Wendy's brother. He is a very supportive, intelligent, gentle guy who gives everything he can for his sister, a real rarity.

Wendy does get her go at a bit of romance, however it felt like more of a build up to something that could become bigger in the second book. Plus, when she has everyone against who she wants, you know this will drag on for a while

Cover:
I love the Australian cover for this book (the one above), it is what got my attention. Doesn't give much of an insight into the story but it feels a bit whimsical and mysterious.
The US cover (to the right) is equally superb. I love the colours and mystery in the cover, from the castle down to the flowers. 

Final Comments:
This book was great, however my only annoyance is the ending. It concludes abruptly, but not even with a cliffhanger that makes you wanting to read on. It is almost as though someone tore out the last few pages of the book and left you confused. The only solution to this is to buy Torn (book 2) and continue on. 

Rating:

Review: The Selection

The Selection
Release Date: 7th June 2012
Pages: 327
Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
Author: Kiera Cass
Source: Purchased at Waterstones
Purchase Book: Amazon UK | Amazon US

Goodreads:
For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in a palace and compete for the heart of gorgeous Prince Maxon.

But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.

Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself—and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.

Review:
I was recommended this book by the Sales Assistant at Waterstones Piccadilly Circus. As I love watching romantic reality shows like Ready for Love and The Bachelor, although I wish they weren't as staged. The thing that really intrigued me about it was the blurb - "In a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels, The Selection is the chance of a lifetime: to compete for gorgeous Prince Maxon's heart. But for American Singer it means turning her back on her secret love, and leaving home for a prize she doesn't want".
As you can see, its not exactly like the dating shows, but better! America already is in love, and is only entering for the sake of her family. Confused? Then read on.

The Selection follows the story of America Singer, who lives in a world of social castes. America herself is a five, at the lower end of the system. With the lower castes obviously not as well off as the higher, America's mother convinces her to enter the competition to win Prince Maxon's heart. It's simple, marry the Prince, be rich and save your family! The downside... well every single other girl want's the same thing. To give this story a bit of juice, America doesn't freely enter the competition with an open heart, she is secretly in love with Aspen, who belongs to a lower caste, which in this world, doesn't get approval from your parents. Assuming she wouldn't be chosen, she enters and gets the shock of a lifetime when she becomes one of the chosen 35. From here on out, there is drama! Think cat fights, sabotage, confusion and more!

In the middle of all the competing and romance is a bit of political drama with rebel attacks due to the caste system. At first, I thought this was a bit odd, but when you get into this book, you come to appreciate the small details outside the Palace walls. The royal life is not as black and white as you would think, and you really get to see multiple sides of the royal family. It is a bit of a back story, but the lower castes obviously don't like how things are run. This ultimately will continue and build up through the series.

When it comes to boy candy, there is enough to go around. With the choice of Aspen (America's secret boyfriend) and Prince Maxon, America has a choice to make. The guy that will save her family's fate or the one that has always been there for her. I found myself torn over and over again who I thought she should end up with. Both of them have qualities fit for America, drawing you into a love triangle that you can't get enough of. Prince Maxon may be the one making the choice, but with America having her own private show on the side, who will ultimately make the decision?

The only downside of the story for me is America's need to mess things up. I understand she is confused, but her constant need to lash out at people that didn't deserve it and to disobey rules just irritated me. Then again, it's this confusion that keeps you on your toes because you never know which way the story will go.
The story was so addictive, I ran to the store the next day to pick up the second book. I'm just disappointed that I can't read book three until next year.

Cover:
This cover grabbed me instantly, the gorgeous dress and simplicity. You really don't need to see much else because you spend more time in the book.

Final Comments:
I loved this book and highly recommend it to any YA or dystopian fans. If you love your reality dating shows, well then this is perfect for you. Not only do you have a dozen girls vying for one man's attention, but you have a second on the side which spices it up!
And if you find yourself wanting to know more about Prince Maxon, there is a book from his perspective, going into more detail behind the scenes, titled The Prince.

Rating:
Continuing my book loving spree, I'm giving it 5 acorns as it was one of the best books I have read!

Upcoming Reviews - Hello Australia!!

It's that time again for a round of reviews. I recently moved down to Australia so my life has been all over the place while I organized things. While I get settled in, I have been catching up on my reading, a healthy book a day!

I have just finished reading the first two books from The Selection trilogy by Kiera Cass. I absolutely adored these books and I am now eagerly awaiting the final installment. I am a fan of romantic reality shows like the bachelor and ready for love, so when I heard of this book, I thought I would give it a shot and glad I did. If you are like me and love a little competition for love, check these out and I promise to get the review up in the next few days.

If you have read any amazing YA books recently, or even something unmissable, please do let me know as I am looking to read a whole collection of books in the next few weeks.

Unfortunately the other books I was meant to review which I previously mentioned are in my container on the boat, heading down from England, so I have to put them to the side for now. In the meantime I will be reading Switched by Amanda Hocking and Spellcaster by Claudia Gray. 

Review: Finale

Finale (Hush, Hush Series) Book #4
Release Date: 25th October 2012
Pages: 464
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Childrens Books
Author: Becca Fitzpatrick
Source: Purchased signed edition (Waterstones)
Purchase Book: Amazon UK | Amazon US

Goodreads:
Will love conquer all?

Nora and Patch thought their troubles were behind them. Hank is gone and they should be able to put his ugly vendetta to rest. But in Hank's absence, Nora has become the unwitting head of the Nephilim and must finish what Hank began. Which ultimately means destroying the fallen angels - destroying Patch.

Nora will never let that happen, so she and Patch make a plan: lead everyone to believe they have broken up, and work the system from the inside. Nora will convince the Nephilim that they are making a mistake in fighting the fallen angels, and Patch will find out everything he can from the opposing side. They will end this war before it can even begin.
But the best-laid plans often go awry. Nora is put through the paces in her new role and finds herself drawn to an addictive power she never anticipated.
As the battle lines are drawn, Nora and Patch must confront the differences that have always been between them and either choose to ignore them or let them destroy the love they have always fought for.

Review:
I had ordered this book long before it was due to come out as Waterstones had issued a limited number of signed copies for pre-order. Obviously, with the series being my favourite, I bought my copy. Before I go into my review, I must remind you there are three books before this and this is the very last in the series.
I suggest if you haven't read Silence, you should probably skip down to my final comments to avoid minor spoilers.

As with each book in the series, Silence ended with a cliffhanger. With Nora left in charge of the Nephilim, she is left with a choice, to take a side - stand with Patch or take the take lead of the Nephilim against everybody else. Both sides are under risk of major losses, so she must grow up and understand the world outside her Patch and Nora bubble, to take charge and protect those she loves.

Nora is a much stronger character in this book and she finally develops a spine. Patch... well lets just say he is just as strong as he always was, if anything he becomes less mysterious and you he finally opens up.

With a clear line now between the two sides, Patch and Nora must fight for each other and decide if they are strong enough to be together, or give it all up to join their sides.
The book is full of drama, scheming, back stabbing, lies, romance, suspense, action and more! By far the most compelling of the series, Becca leaves you wanting more.... but sadly this is where it all ends.

Cover:
Keeping in line with previous covers, we see the same thing, Nora and Patch. Like Silence, it's again on the rocky shore, this time with Patch reaching out to Nora. A very dramatic cover with black feathers floating everywhere. As this book is full of suspence and romance, I couldn't have chosen a better cover to finish off the series. Below is a photo of Becca's autograph:

Final Comments:
I absolutely loved this book and highly recommend it to fans of Becca, along with any YA readers. Again I suggest you read the previous books as they all tie in together and it would be a shame to miss something.
As mentioned above, there is no lack of drama, scheming, suspense, romance and action. It is utterly compelling and probably the best in the series. Becca has out done herself and well so since this is how we are parting ways with Patch and Nora.

Rating:

Review: Linger

Linger (The Wolves of Mercy Falls) Book #2

Release Date: 21st July 2010

Pages: 416

Publisher: Scholastic

Author: Maggie Stiefvater

Source: Purchased (Waterstones)

Purchase Book: Amazon UK | Amazon US

Goodreads
Grace and Sam must fight to be together. For Grace, this means defying her parents and keeping dangerous secrets. For Sam, it means grappling with his werewolf past... and figuring out a way to survive the future.
But just when they manage to find happiness, Grace finds herself changing in ways she could have never expected...

Review:

At the end of Shiver, we were left with a bit of a cliff hanger. Did the cure work? Is Sam a wolf forever or will he become human? If you have yet to read the first book, I warn you there are spoilers for the previous book as this one jumps an entire space of time between books. So shield your eyes!

Obviously you know a love story can’t continue without the main protagonist going on with the love of his life. Enter the first line in the first chapter “This is a story of a boy who used to be a wolf and a girl who is becoming one.” I was instantly reminded of Romeo and Juliet. The author presents us with a random statement at the beginning and will go on to explain what exactly it all means.

After the first book, we saw Sam and Grace build their relationship, although it was difficult to understand what they saw in each other. The focus being on Sam being a wolf and how would they work it all out. Shiver on the other hand is about Sam and Grace finally being able to be together, planning their future and generally being all merry.... enter the evil parents that are anti teenage freedom. With every teen love story, parents are bound to get in the way, along with annoying characters that are bent on killing wolves and newly formed wolves with issues. This story is choca-block with drama. We are introduced to a new wolf, Cole who comes with a tonne of baggage and we finally get to see how the effect of her brother’s death plays on Isabel. Throw in another minor romance and a death and you got yourself a pretty well rounded second book. The thing that makes this book a bit easier to read than the first is that there more substance to Grace and Sam’s relationship. We learn more about them both, their qualities and what they could possibly see in each other. They may seem like polar opposites but like they say opposites attract and their romance is quite sweet.... with the exception of the whole potential doomed future.

Interesting bits:

Continuing in the same format as the first book, It is written in alternate chapters. This time instead of just Grace and Sam’s point of view, we are getting perspectives from an array of characters... it is actually pretty creative and it gives you the chance to see how all the characters behave around set events. My only issue was keeping up with which character was narrating.

Cover:

Following the same design as the first, a fantastic cover, again with different designs depending on the country you purchase the book. I love the graphic style of the black, white and red, this time with a bit more white negative space for snow. The US was alright, but doesn't grab my attention is much as the previous US cover (below). Which do you prefer?

Final Comments:
Sadly this book didn’t leave me speechless. While it was written well and has some interesting twists, I found it a bit predictable. That’s not to say I won’t be continuing on to the third book, as this book still managed to leave me wanting to know what happens next. I find I need to run to the bookstore, because even though Grace and Sam’s relationship was odd at times, they grew on me and I want to know how it will all turn out. If you have read the first, I would definitely recommend reading this book. If you are new to the series and love your wolves, fantasy, mythology or YA books, why not give it a go. I give this book 3 acorns as the author threw me into the book without an explanation as to what happened between the two books and there was something else missing for me. Happy reading!

I would love to know what you thought of the book. If you have also read the final book, please do share links to your reviews in the comments section as I will be sharing a collection of the final reviews for the last book.

Rating:

Review: Shiver

Review: Shiver

Shiver (The Wolves of Mercy Falls) Book #1

Release Date: 5^th October 2009

Pages: 448

Publisher: Scholastic

Author: Maggie Stiefvater

Source: Purchased (Amazon UK)

Purchase Book: Amazon UK | Amazon US

Goodreads
Grace and Sam share a kinship so close they could be lovers or siblings. But they also share a problem. When the temperature slips towards freezing, Sam reverts to his wolf identity and must retreat into the woods to protect his pack. He worries that eventually his human side will fade away and he will be left howling alone at the lonely moon. A stirring supernatural teen romance.

Review:

Shiver is the first book in the Wolves of Mercy Falls saga. I was recommended this book by several bloggers and the hundreds of great reviews. After reading too many vampire books, I wasn’t sure how I felt about a werewolf book, but I was mistaken. While it did take me three attempts to make it past the first few pages, it was well worth it once I got into it.

The book itself is an interesting approach to telling the story of Grace and a wolf called Sam. Grace grows up with a horrid past, where at the age of six she was attacked by wolves, only to be spared by a wolf with yellow eyes. Instead of being afraid her whole life, she becomes fascinated with the pack and the yellow eyed wolf, Sam. She spends the years after the traumatic event watching the woods behind her home, where the yellow eyed wolf is also keeping watch on her. It is only when another attack occurs on a teenage boy, several years later that the town of Mercy Falls begins to pay attention and launches a hunt against the wolves. Grace is against the attacks and does all she can to protect the wolves. Unfortunately there is a victim.... her wolf, Sam. Sam turns up shot and bleeding in his human form on Grace’s porch. Without giving you too many spoilers, the story sets off from there with Grace and Sam finally be able to communicate with each other.

There are some interesting bits:

When it comes to the format, It is written in alternate chapters, from Grace and Sam’s point of view, sharing their story. While it is confusing at first to have to switch between two characters, it is in fact more insightful as you get to read both sides of this teen romance.

We find out that the wolves in fact turn human during the warmer months, which gives Grace and Sam a chance to form their relationship. However, before you think it’s a simple love story, we find out there is a set number of years this happens and then they become stuck in their wolf form for the rest of their lives. With that whole hiccup right there, you know the whole story will be about fighting to save Sam.

A very unique and a great little detail - the chapters are headed by the temperature at the present time... giving the reader a better feel of how hard it is for Sam to stay in his human form, especially when it’s freezing cold. Depending on what country you buy it in, you can find this in Celsius of Fahrenheit.  This to me was a blessing because the last thing I want is to have to convert temperature from Fahrenheit to Celsius every chapter.

Cover:

By far one of my favourite covers for the past few years. There seems to be two different designs, depending on the country you buy it in, but both are equally brilliant. I love the graphic style of the black, white and red, detailing branches of the woods and giving off that cold, dry winter night feel. To give credit to the illustrator, it was created by Christopher Stengel. The US cover (below), while using a different colour palette gives a more day snowy winter feel. Which do you prefer?

Final Comments:

While I loved the authors writing and love of poetry, I will do my best not to compare it to other books.  While, in the beginning it did remind me of Twilight sans vampires... the Bella and Jacob story, had Bella had this pure obsession for Jacob, I got over it. There is this intense love between Grace and Sam and it definitely matches the passion teenagers cry over today. I only wish this book was around when I was a teen. To give this book an honest review without being bias, it was a great read. The wolf part isn’t too grotesque, so don’t be put off by a teen wolf romance... It may have taken me a while to warm up to the idea and finally give the book a chance, but I highly recommend it to YA fans.

I would love to know what you thought of the book. If you have also read the next book, please do share links to your reviews in the comments section as I would love to see if the next book lives up to the first.

Rating:

Review: Stefan's Diaries v.5: The Asylum

Stefan's Diaries: The Asylum

Release Date: UK 5th April 2012 (Paperback) | US 17th Jan 2012
Pages: 221
Publisher: Harper Teen
Author: L.J. Smith
Source: Bought (from Amazon US)
Purchase book: Amazon UK | Amazon US

Goodreads
The hunters become the hunted. . . .

Driven from their hometown of Mystic Falls, both Stefan Salvatore and his brother, Damon, arrived in Europe looking for a fresh start. But Samuel, a wealthy and cunning vampire, has other plans for them. First he ruined Stefan’s peaceful existence and now he’s framing Damon for the most gruesome murders London has ever seen.

United against their common enemy, Stefan and Damon are stunned when they realize that the source of Samuel’s rage lies in their past—tied up with the woman who forever changed their lives. Haunted by the memory of Katherine, the brothers find that their uneasy alliance is tested. Can they overcome their rivalry to defeat Samuel before he exacts his final revenge?

Based on the popular CW TV show inspired by the bestselling novels, Stefan’s Diaries reveals the truth about what really happened between Stefan, Damon, and Katherine—and how the Vampire Diaries love triangle began.

The Asylum is the 5th installment in the Stefan's Diaries series. Continuing from The Ripper, Stefan and Damon have now come to an understanding, joining forces as brothers to defeat the enemy Samuel, who is tormenting them all over London, framing Damon as Jack the Ripper and killing off those close to Stefan.
With Violet's sister Cora in tow, the trio are heading back to London to find a way to get Violet back and rid the world of Samuel. Unfortunately for the brothers Samuel seems to be an indestructable vampire that just wont die, leaving Stefan and Damon to come up with a variety of ways to bring him down.

Now that Damon's reputation is on the line and the entire London police force is looking for him, they are left to go into hiding while planning their attack on Samuel. Thankfully, while Cora may be human, it is her emotional strength and spirit that keep the group together. She appears to be the first woman after Katherine that has the respect of both brothers with no need to fear for her own life.

While at first you may think its a simple seek and destroy vampire story, it's really seek and attempt to destroy, try again, someone dies, fail, try again, someone dies, fail, try again..... you get the idea. It goes on and on until you wish you could go and destroy Samuel yourself.
The great thing about this book is that readers get the chance to learn more about Damon and Stefan's relationship and another side of Katherine's secret life that not even the brothers expected.

Cover:
Similar to the previous book, it maintains a cool look. I bought the US edition, but it is exactly the same as the UK edition, just with different fonts and chapter designs. I am not entirely sure if this is Katherine or Elena on the cover. It may not make a difference either way.

Final Comments:
Continuing from the 4th book, it doesn't progress very far. As I mentioned early, the seek and destroy vampire sequence goes on and on, spiraling out of control. If it was shortened and merged with the previous book, I may have enjoyed it more, but to be honest, it does drag on a bit. Nevertheless if you are a TVD fan, there are some things you would love to know in this book, which I won't spoil.
It doesn't come out in the UK until April, but if you are desperate to read it, the US edition is available online. Keep in mind if you are keen on keeping your collection the same, the cover is slightly different and the US don't have a glossy cover like the UK - It may not be a big deal, but I hated the feel of the US edition.

Rating:

Review: Stefan's Diaries v.4: The Ripper

Stefan's Diaries: The Ripper

Release Date: 5th January 2012 (Paperback)
Pages: 272
Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
Author: L.J. Smith
Source: Bought
Purchase book: Amazon UK

Goodreads:
Haunted by the past . . .

The year is 1888, and the scent of blood lingers heavy in the London air. Stefan Salvatore thought he could escape his violent origins by settling in the peaceful countryside of England, but when a heinous murderer named Jack the Ripper surfaces, Stefan fears darkness will always follow him. Drawn into the investigation, Stefan assumes the worst: This is the work of a vampire. And the more he learns, the more he becomes convinced that the killer is someone close to him--and that he can never outrun his past.

Based on the popular CW TV show inspired by the bestselling novels, Stefan's Diaries reveals the truth about what really happened between Stefan, Damon, and Katherine--and how the Vampire Diaries love triangle began.

The Ripper is the 4th book in the Stefan's Diaries series. The book is written in the form of a diary, following Stefan's early days as a vampire as he tries to discover who he is now and how to deal with his new life, which is made difficult with his brother Damon tormenting him on all ends of the earth.

In this book, we see Stefan leave the US and try to start a life in England as a groundskeeper at Abbott Manor. After all the suffering in The Craving, Stefan finally thinks he is free and able to start a new life, make new friends and separate himself from the Salvatore name and vampires. Unfortunately for Stefan, when news of Count DeSangue (Damon's alias) in the society pages of the paper reaches him, he has no choice but to see what Damon is up to. To make matters worse, there is a "Ripper" running lose on the streets of London, killing women.

With Stefan's arrival in London, the line between human and vampire murderer becomes blurry. We are left to wonder if Jack the Ripper is involved or if a vampire is forgetting to cover his tracks. Stefan decides to investigate the murders and Damon's life and realises there is more to it than expected. There are new vampires with issues, holding a grudge against the Salvatore's, young human girls tangling themselves up in the story and a whole lot of action.

This is no longer a battle between brothers, but a fight to survive against new dark forces to stay alive.

Cover:
Slightly different than the first 3 books in the series. Where the first 3 had a warm tone, the new book has a cold filter, sending off a menacing look, giving readers a heads up that the new books will more action than before!

Final Comments:
After reading the first three books in the series, I wasn't too pleased with where it was going, however, I loved this book. Stefan finally grows up and learns to fight, no longer the whimp we have been following in the past. While we don't see any romance, the action in the book makes up for it. It had me on my toes for most of the book, wanting to know what happens next. The ghost writer has definitely made it up to me with this book. As expected, it ends on a cliffhanger, but that just makes you race to the store to buy the next book! Highly recommend this to TVD fans.

Rating:

Review: The Hunters: Phanton

Goodreads Description:

The past is never far. . . .

Elena Gilbert and her friends saved Fell’s Church from evil spirits bent on destroying it, but the town’s freedom came at a price: Damon Salvatore’s life.

Damon’s death changes everything. He and his vampire brother, Stefan, had been locked in a vicious battle for Elena’s heart. Now that he’s gone, Elena and Stefan can finally be together. So why can’t Elena stop dreaming of Damon? As Elena’s feelings for Damon grow, a new darkness is brewing in Fell’s Church. Elena has been to hell and back, but this demon is like nothing she’s ever seen. Its only goal is to kill Elena and everyone she loves.

Review:
Phantom is the first book in The Hunters trilogy which continues where The Return trilogy left off. It is difficult to review this book without spoiling it and even the previous book, so I will do my best not to go into too much detail. In the slight chance of spoilers, I suggest you read The Return: Midnight first.

After the major trauma of the last trilogy, Fell's Church was completely turned on its head. There was death, action and your typical Stefan, Elena, Damon love triangle. Elena and the gang did their best to protect the town, to restore it back to how it used to be before the Kitsune came in town. Thankfully, things get back to normal... for now. We have now been thrown forward into the future where summer is coming to an end and the gang are getting ready for college.... the odd thing is, none of them recall their last year at highschool, graduating, the summer or where they are going to study... what is even more shocking is when people they knew who passed away have magically reappeared. They have some catching up to do as their lives went on without them even being there.

While it was great to continue on with my favourite series, I felt this book was a great let down. It was rather slow and I found myself wanting to skip pages just to finish it. In the beginning, I had forgotten that L.J.Smith was no longer writing the series so I didn't approach it with a negative opinion. However, it is easy to notice this book is different. Characters have new personalities and Stefan is no longer the loving and kind vampire, instead he appears to be the annoying rude Stefan who is controlled by Klaus in the tv series.

Final Comments:
In comparison to the entire Vampire Diaries series, this book is a let down. There are some enjoyable parts of the book and a bit of action from supernatural beings, but it is not a page turner. It is interesting to see the relationship between some characters progress, such as with Meredith and Alaric, and even the introduction of new characters. If however you are a big fan of the series, I do suggest you give it a shot to see how it turns out.

Release Date: November 2011
Publisher: Hodder Children's Books
Author: Ghostwriter (L.J Smith)

I would love to hear your opinions on the book.. so please do share them.

Review: Angel Fire

Goodreads Description:

"Only Willow has the power to defeat the malevolent Church of Angels, and they will stop at nothing to destroy her. Willow isn’t alone, though. She has Alex by her side – a trained Angel Killer and her one true love. But nothing can change the fact that Willow’s a half-angel, and when Alex joins forces with a group of AKs, she’s treated with mistrust and suspicion. She’s never felt more alone…until she meets Seb. He’s been searching for Willow his whole life – because Seb is a half-angel too."

Angel Fire is the second book in the Angel trilogy by L.A. Weatherly. It follows the story of Willow, a half Angel who falls in love with an Angel Killer named Alex. They were never meant to be together, but nothing can stop the attraction.
I picked up this series as I was intrigued by the idea of female angel instead of a brooding male. While it is a different approach, I felt that having a female lead as the angel isn't quite the same. Never the less, it was still a great read and pulls in the reader with a unique love triangle and a battle to save the world against the evil angels that suck life force out of humans, making them sick. This book is simply chaotic and bound to impress any YA reader.

Angel Fire is more intense than the first book, Angel. Alex is now on a mission to get his team of AK's (Angel Killers) together in order to defeat the Angels trying to kill Willow and harm the rest of humanity. We are introduced to several new recruits that Alex has to train up and the third in the crazy love triangle. One thing that is great about this book is the authors writing. I felt as thought I was in the middle of the battle, watching all the action around me.

As usual in a book like this, we are given a love story. In the first book, Willow and Alex are deeply in love and it is assumed the second book will show how they grow together. However, while on the hunt for Angels, Willow meets another half Angel, Seb. Obviously as they are the only half Angels in the world, you can expect a bit of drama... and believe me, we get it! Although at one point, I did feel like this was on the verge of the love triangle in Twilight.
The love triangle is exciting, with both males being your typical handsome, dark and complicated character. It is difficult at times to take a side as both Alex and Seb seem so perfect for Willow.

With such an action packed book that beat the first, the author has lifted my expectations and the third book is going to have to be outstanding! For those new to the series, be sure to read Angel (Angel Burn in the US) first as you need to understand Alex and Willow's relationship and history.

Final Comments:
Enticing read that had me gripping on the books waiting to see where the author would take me. At no point was it predictable and I was constantly thrown a new surprise that made reading more enjoyable. The love triangle was fascinating too! Really glad we were introduced to another half-Angel. I recommend this book to YA and paranormal readers.

Release date: 1st October 2011 (Paperback)
Publisher: Usborne
Author: L.A. Weatherly

Review: Silence (Hush, hush)

Goodreads description:

"The Hush, Hush series has captivated readers with the story of Nora Grey, her friend Vee, and a mysterious fallen archangel named Patch. In the gripping conclusion of the trilogy, Nora finds that as things start to unravel around her, she is more drawn to the enigmatic Patch. She soon discovers that the answers lie closer to home than she realized, and it is time for her to take control of her destiny once and for all."

I am happy to announce that the third book "Silence" in the Hush, hush series has been released. I had been eagerly awaiting this book and managed to read it in a day.

This book was absolutely brilliant. After leaving with a cliffhanger in Crescendo where Patch and Nora were suddenly surprised with a guest attacker, I was unsure where this book would begin. Thankfully the story continues on where it left off, however instead of a boring play by play, author Becca Fitzpatrick spins it around a little bit and lead character Nora is brought back to us with amnesia. This book focuses on Nora's return after her abduction and the lead up to the battle between Fallen Angels and Nephilim, including the development of the key players of the two sides and the motives behind the need for a war.

For those readers who like Patch, he is a bit annoying to begin with in this book, however things turn around when you realise he only does what he needs to in order to protect Nora from further harm. Knowing Nora though, you can expect her amnesia and love for Patch is tested again in this book. As she is a teen, she did annoy me with her constant jelousy and bad calls.
While we did have a few characters leave us in the last book, you will be happy to know some favourites are back in action here, including Vee (although slightly different now) and Scott. We even see a whole collection of new villians!

Without spoiling the book, the ending was fantastic! A cliffhanger ofcourse, but a complete unexpected turn of events that not even I saw coming.
Becca Fitzpatrick shows the world and her readers how she really is an outstanding writer and you can feel the emotion and suspense in this book through her words.

While many of us did think there would only be three books in the series, a fourth book has been announced and will be released next year in the fall.

With a battle ahead, which side do you think Nora and Patch will take?

Cover:

I adore this cover. In the first book we had Patch, in the second we had Nora, now we have them together as they are reunited and Patch stops at nothing to protect Nora, hence the carrying in his arms. It's a very dramatic scene by the water with one single red feather falling from Nora's hands. The lack of colour in this suits it perfectly well as the focus as the wings and feather are the focus of this image. Any additional colour would have taken away from it.

Final Comments:

I loved this book. I highly recommend it to any YA or paranomal romance readers, but be sure to read the previous two books so that the story makes sense. This book is less about the romance between Patch and Nora and more about mystery, history and the upcoming battle. If it was simply about their relationship, I don't think it would have been as good. Thankfully we were spared the lovey dovey teen romance for most of the time, but don't worry, if its the romance you want, the book still has it.

Release Date: October 2011 (Hardback)
Publisher: Simon and Schuster Childrens Books
Author: Becca Fitzpatrick

Review: Stefan's Diaries v.3: The Craving (The Vampire Diaries)

With the return of the Vampire Diaries tonight in the US, I thought I would review the most recent book of the series I have read.

Stefan's Diaires: The Craving, by L.J. Smith is the third book in Stefan's Diaries, part of the Vampire Diaries series. Stefan's Diaries is told in first person by Stefan, following his journey when he meets Katherine, is turned into a vampire and the following months when he tries to cope with his new life and his brother Damon.

In The Craving, Stefan is beginning to handle his life as a vampire, controlling his need for blood. This is the turning point for Stefan where he no longer needs to kill humans to survive. He has left the drama and events behind him and moved on to New York City where he thinks he will be able to live a normal life... that is until Damon returns. With Damon in town, you can expect the quiet life wont last long. Damon is bent on making Stefan's life a living hell and turns it into a game. Unfortunately for Damon, his plans get a little complicated and we are introduced to more evil than Damon and Stefan had imagined.

Cover:
The cover art for this series is pretty basic, each book with a face of the main characters, first Stefan, second Damon and third Elena. While I like the simplicity in this design, my only issue is that Elena is not mentioned in Stefan's Diaries, yet she is on the cover for this book.

Final Comments:
The great thing about the Stefan's Diaries series is that we get an insight into Stefan's thoughts and learn more about his past and how he came to be what he is. If however you have not had the chance the read the series, I recommend you read the first two books, which I will post reviews soon. While I love The Vampire Diaries, this book was a bit quick and just made Stefan look like a wimp.

Book 1: Stefan's Diaries v.1: Origins

Book 2: Stefan's Diaries v.2: Bloodlust

Book 3: Stefan's Diaries v.3: The Craving

Release Date: May 2011

Publisher: Hodder Children's Books

Author: L.J.Smith