Book Review: 'This Song Will Save Your Life' by Leila Sales

For months, This Song Will Save Your Life has been waiting on my shelf, lost amongst the other contemporary titles that are also unread. Desperate for a quick-read, during a break from A Song of Ice and Fire, I decided to pick this up. I loved it.

"You think it's so easy to change yourself.

You think it's so easy, but it's not."

All her life Elise Dembowski has been an outsider.

Starting a new school, she drams of fitting in at last - but when her best attempts at popularity fail, she almost gives up. Then she stumbles upon a secret warehouse party. There, at night, Elise can be a different person, making real friends, falling in love for the first time and finding her true passion - DJing.

But when her real and secret lives collide, she has to make a decision once and for all: just who is the real Elise?

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It's difficult to do a book like This Song Will Save Your Life justice. This novel is both powerful and poignant; the author tackling issues including self harm and suicide with ease throughout. Sales is able to create an honest and heart-wrenching novel, one that is a must-read for those struggling on the sidelines, written with an understanding of teenagers - and how we really feel - that I have never read before in YA. Whilst challenging us to accept ourselves, this also has hints of humour, creating light-hearted moments amidst the serious topics that are dealt with in Leila Sales' most recent release.

Elise, the protagonist, is desperate to be someone else. She wants to have a friend to eat lunch with; somebody to talk to; a seat in the middle of the bus. Simply, she doesn't want to be alone. And I could recognise these feelings as being similar to my own. This Song Will Save Your Life begins a few days before schools starts, with Elise studying how to become popular, having never been able to fit in. And, as she took notes on how smiling at a person will make them like you, I realised how relatable character; one whose problems are not sugar-coated. I loved her character; the conflicting personalities she had, from how she felt in school compared to Start(the warehouse nightclub she stumbles across). Her character's voice is smart and sharp, with added wit, her story capturing what it feels like to find somewhere you belong.

"Popularity rewards the uninteresting."

Start is introduced a few chapters into the novel; and this saw the addition of vibrant and fun characters to the plot. The rock star outfits, rhinestone pumps and packed dance-floor create Start, the crowd inside it made up of DJs, singers and band members. With this came Vicky, Pippa and Char, and Sales was able to show us that they were human. Just like Elise. Away from Start, I really liked how Elise's parents and siblings were written-into the novel; especially when I was reading about how they reacted to her giving up. It was great to see that how parents are affected in these situations wasn't avoided.

Leila Sales' writing is unflinching; the author handling current issues, such as bullying, that affect many young people, honestly. There was no glamourising, and as a reader, I really appreciated that. In some YA novels, it can feel like tough-topics are thrown in, but This Song Will Save Your Life could challenge multiple self-help guides instead. I cannot praise Leila Sales enough. Whether Elise is feeling angry or frustrated, upset or uneasy, Sales is able to execute it, and I loved how 'real' her characters felt. There are life lessons to be learnt in this novel, with quotes from the characters written down amongst those from other favourites.

Music plays a huge part in this novel, the author introducing me to Blur and Oases, the novel filled with songs from most decades on the set-list at Start. Elise's knowledge of DJing, and how it was written, was never over-complicated, so amateurs - like myself - could understand, and the novel still be believable.

Overall, I cannot praise this novel enough. It's honest, heart-wrenching and has the right amount of humour, making this a novel I loved.

5 Stars

So, have you read 'This Song Will Save Your Life'?
Have you heard a Blur song before(unlike myself)?

Tell me in the comments!

Book Review: 'Fangirl' by Rainbow Rowell

Over the past few months, I've read countless five star reviews featuring books by Rainbow Rowell, whether they were about Fangirl, Eleanor and Park or, more recently, Landline. So, imagine my excitement when after months of them being seemingly non-existent in the UK, I started to find her novels in my local bookstores. Of course, I had high expectations of my first read from this author and, thankfully, it met all of them.

Cath and Wren are identical twins and until recently they did absolutely everything together. Now they're off to university and Wren's decided she doesn't want to be one half of a pair anymore - she wants to dance, meet boys, go to parties and let loose. It's not so easy for Cath. She would rather bury herself in the fanfiction she writes where there's romance far more intense than anything she's experienced in real life.

Now Cath has to decide whether she's ready to open her heart to new people and new experiences, and she's realising that there's more to learn about love than she ever thought possible...

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Fangirl is an almost perfect YA Contemporary read, with exactly the right blend of humour and heart. A captivating and cosy read to curl up with, this novel is one any teenager will be able to relate aspects of their own life to, with a cast of characters to fall in love with; such as secondary characters Levi and Reagan. Rowell's simplistic yet stylish writing style is enviable, as she weaves her way through a tale of fanfiction and friendship, adding sections of Carry On, Simon(Cath's fictional fanfic) effortlessly into her novel. Rowell's art form seems to be in characterisation; making sure they all dealt with real-life issues throughout the novel. An absolutely addicting standalone novel, this is the soundtrack of a compulsive reader's life.

Whilst reading this novel, I developed a strong relationship with the set of characters Rowell has created; not wanting to leave them behind at the end. With detailed descriptions and distinguishable traits, they soon became real. Cath's story tells of not only moving away from home and making new friends, but also the struggles that follow that. In Fangirl, her fears and faults and are also depicted; soon only the world she wants to live in is that of Simon Snow. The World of Mages becomes a place Cath can escape into to - and any avid reader will be able to recognise a part of themselves in this. It is not possible to write a review of this novel without applauding Rowell for creating the likes of Levi - whose character is so witty and full of warmth. With him, it soon becomes certain that this is also a laugh-out-loud book. There characters are so human - and that's why I loved it.

For anyone with siblings, this is a must read. The relationship between Cath and Wren is a breath of fresh air; finally there is a realistic fictional family out there! There are obvious differences between these twins - especially as Wren seems to 'steal the spotlight' in their daily life. There's jealousy too, an all-too-familiar feeling between brothers and sisters, as in Wren and Cath's case, one adjusts more quickly to life at university. Personally, I adored how these two characters in particular grew throughout the novel - Cath going from somebody suffering from anxiety, hiding away in her dormroom, to a young person full of confidence. Wren is described by Cath as having the "better umbilical chord" and I fell in love with this reference - it summed up her free-spirited sister perfectly.

 

The storyline is brilliantly plotted; the writing is captivating; the fanfiction is enjoyable, apart from a few 'slip-ups' now and again. I loved the biography of sorts that is Cath's first year at university - and can't wait for my next read by Rowell!

4.5 Stars

So, have you read 'Fangirl'?

Do you read/write fanfiction yourself?

 

Tell me in the comments!

Book Review: 'Love Letters to the Dead' by Ava Dellaira

With exams, I haven't had much time to read. In the past month, I've only finished one book, which is why there haven't been that many reviews lately. That one book was Ava Dellaira's debut and, with there being a review from the author of 'The Perks of Being a Wallflower' on the front, I had high expectations.

Sometimes the best letters go unanswered.

 

It begins as an assignment for English class; write a letter to a dead person. Laurel chooses Kurt Cobain - he died young, and so did Laurel's sister May - so maybe he'll understand what Laurel is going through.

 

Soon, Laurel is writing letters to lots of dead people - Janis Joplin, Heath Ledger, River Phoenix, Amelia Earhart, Amy Winehouse...It's like she can't stop. She writes about her new high school, her new friends, her first love - and her shattered life.

 

But, the ghosts of Laurel's past can't be contained between the lines of a page forever. She must face up to them - before they consume her.

 

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'Love Letters to the Dead' is an unflinching novel about grief, guilt and growing up, all told in the format of letters to those we have already lost. Ava Dellaira's debut novel has an idea I continue to feel envious of, with her writing filled with the brutality we come to accept in this world. Laurel's voice was full of anger and, full of her frustration. However, I still found myself feeling disappointed. It fell into the traps that its predecessors have found themselves stuck in before: trying to be the next John Green or Stephen Chbosky. Dellaira's voice is one we need on the literary scene: untamed, unapologetic and unsuspecting. But, her debut just became mediocre.  I can't write this review praising the idea, or applauding her ability to handle a tough-topic - which are great - when I know that this could have been better.

The plot, for the most part, is good. Throughout the novel, there is endless suspense, and as a reader I clung onto this; wanting to know what happened the day Laurel's sister died. Dellaira builds up tension slowly and steadily, making it worthwhile to keep turning the pages until the end. At times, though, I was distracted, desperate to finish this novel so I could read others waiting on my shelf. There are numerous letters where hardly no events take place, and when it came to these, I couldn't immerse myself in this novel. Thankfully, the ending is raw and honest; and this caused tears to form in my eyes. Dellaira left no loose-ends when tying up her plot; those final few pages beautifully written.

Despite the writing being muddled with metaphors on every page, which does become tedious after a while, Dellaira deals with serious topics in her writing, including bereavement. Set during a time when our main character has just arrived at High School, there are also topics that many of us will be able to relate to, with relationships and sexuality included at points in the book. Admittedly, it does feel like young people have been stereotyped when reading; each of us seemingly spending most of our time sneaking out to attend parties, where we drink and take drugs. Serious topics are executed well, and it taught me some clear life-lessons.

In terms of the characters, I did find myself struggling to distinguish between them. Hannah and Natalie, Laurel's new friends, are extremely important in discussing LGBT issues, but I found myself flicking back to descriptions of them. They were really similar, and within a huge cast of characters, their personalities weren't as appreciated as they could have been. Laurel is also difficult to relate to at times, and I found myself questioning her actions, particularly during her first relationship. From what I've heard, the strong subject-matter is making a huge difference to other lives, so maybe this one just wasn't the read for me.

Thank you to Hot Key Books for providing me with a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.



For older readers - 3 stars.

Have you read 'Love Letters to the Dead'?
If so, what were your thoughts?
If not, will you be picking up this book?

Tell me in the comments!

Sophie
x

Book Review: 'The Madness' by Alison Rattle

'Love knows no limits'

 

 

Somersetshire, 1868

 

Marnie leads a lonely existence in a seaside village famed for its 'sea-cures'. Visitors flock from London every summer, but the ladies in their fancy clothes are like foreign creatures to Marnie. When she meets Noah she can see a future for herself for the first time. A future where she is no longer an outcast; a future of love and happiness. But Noah doesn't share Marnie's vision. He thinks they're simply having fun. Marnie has to make him understand that they are meant to be together; she has to make him see the truth...no matter what it takes.

 

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'The Madness' is an unflinching and unsuspecting novel that is a must-read for all historical fans. What you assume is going to be a stereotypical teen romance is instead about a disabled young girl whose life has been affected by Polio. Rattle writes a perfect representation of what life was like in the 1800s, not just for the Ladies and Lords from London, but a girl who is discriminated due to her disability. Marnie is bullied and belittled, and thought of as a 'devil's child', because she is a cripple.

 

Rattle is an author I cannot praise highly enough. She doesn't underestimate the reader, and writes what seems to be always avoided; a character with faults. With a new, fresh and exciting voice in YA Fiction, she tackles a novel about obsession. 'The Madness' is more than just a historical romance, instead, it's both raw and honest, dealing with how Marnie wants to be accepted into a town where she has always found herself on the vicinity. This novel is about obsession, but not about the type of 'mundane' ones we have, instead those that make your stomach church with anticipation.

 

So, I think this would be a good time to talk about our main character, Marnie Gunn. It's difficult to describe such a character, apart from saying she is not necessarily likable. Id she was, I probably wouldn't have enjoyed this novel as much as I did. She's spiteful, not that you can blame her, yet spirited. Her character makes you keep turning the pages, even through sometimes you want to scream at her in frustration. With what appears to be a tough-demeanour, she is also desperate, struggling to contemplate life as a cripple, hoping that the 'sea-cure' will work. Denied affection for most of her life, the moment she has it, she doesn't want to let go. Can't let go. You understand why, though. But, even her parents laugh at the mention of someone taking an interest in their daughter.

 

Noah himself is charming and caring, although he did take advantage of Marnie. Oblivious to how she really feels, he thinks they are just having fun, but it's not the case. His thoughts wonder to a girl back in London, as Rattle writes Noah's diary entries, switching from them to a third person narrative to write from Marnie's point-of-view. I loved this, as you saw the contrast between how Noah really felt, and how Marnie interpreted that.

 

My only complaint is the age-gap between our two main characters. While Marnie is only fourteen, Noah is approaching eighteen, which made it difficult to picture a realistic relationship that would last.
 



4 Stars - For ages 13+

 

Thank you to Hot Key Books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.


Have you read 'The Madness'?
Do you think enough tough-topics are dealt with in books?

Tell me in the comments!

 

 

Book Review: The Assassin's Blade by Sarah J. Maas

The 'Throne of Glass' series is a favourite of mine, with the detailed-writing and fantastic set of characters. Although, previously I'd only read one of the five prequels, and with a gorgeous cover, I was extremely excited when a book-shaped package arrived, and this was inside. While many people have been wondering what order they should read the series in, now that this collection has been released, I definitely agree that the mystery surrounding Celaena's past is important for the first two books.

 

'The twist of a knife,

The birth of a legend...'

 

The prequels to the 'Throne of Glass' series by Sarah J. Maas.

 

Celaena Sardothein owes her reputation to Arobynn Hamel. He gave her a home at the Assassins' Guild and taught her the skills she needed to survive.

 

Arobynn's enemies stretch far and wide - from Adarlan's rooftops and its filthy dens, to remote islands and hostile deserts. Celaena is duty-bound to hunt them down. But, behind her assignments lies a dark truth that will seal her fate - and cut her heart in two forever.

 

 

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'The Assassin's Blade' is a book fans of Sarah J. Maas will devour like Celaena Sardothien and a new read. In Adarlan Assassin's latest tale, the five 'Throne of Glass' novellas are woven effortlessly into one novel that is both courageous and captivating. Adarlan is a beautifully crafted world that Maas really takes advantage of in this novel, transporting us to Skull's Bay, through barren desserts in search for the Silent Assassin's and then to the Guild - Celaena's 'home'. While the setting of the first two novels is mainly the Glass Castle, along with the streets of Rifthold, this novel allows readers to explore the intricate world. I was completely engrossed as we met the likes of Rolfe(the Pirate Lord), Arobynn Hamel and Sam Cortland(more on him to come).

 

Maas allows us to see a more humane side of Celaena in these prequels, as she deals with guilt, deceivement and defeat; and also comes face-to-face with death. Despite being as cunning as ever, you see a softer side, the person that doesn't celebrate the blood on her hands, and even stops for a moment to ponder what happens 'next'. As she complains about her split ends, and is determined to keep all of her books, you warm to a character that initially seemed to have a hard, cold demeanour. There's a heart-wrenching romance too, the final-piece of this warped fairy-tale, with villains creeping from page-to-page, a damsel-in-distress(The Assassin and the Healer), and Sam, who is more than just a charming love-interest.

 

We hear mentions of Sam Cortland throughout 'Throne of Glass' and 'Crown of Midnight', but we get to see the dynamic between Celaena and him in this book. Like most other readers I've been intrigued since the first mention of Sam, and as if we are attached to strings like a puppet, Maas pulls us into their rivalry, their brother/sister relationship that is more than likely to end in a mortuary. Sam is a character with so many layers; the person that creates a sense of hope that the reader believes for a too-short moment. This is not a romance that is thrown in just like the next YA novel you will come across, but instead it's built-up, creating tension and excitement. It's executed brilliantly! I loved it!

 

With a knife-sharp plot, Maas adds in gripping-action and excitement to complete this fantastic novel. Once again, the author will shatter your heart into fragments of glass, but not before creating twists-and-turns in the book that will leave you jaw-dropped. A new reader, or a fan from the beginning, you need to pick this up! I don't doubt for a moment that we will be seeing some of the characters(especially Arobynn) again - and hopefully Ansel and Yrene.

 

Favourite novella: The Assassin and the Desert

Favourite new character: I don't think I could choose between Ansel and Sam!

Thank you so much to Bloomsbury for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

 

 

Rating:

 

4.5 Stars!

 

Have you read 'The Assassin's Blade' yet?

If so, do you think the characters in this novel will be making an appearance in future books?

 

Book Review: 'A Breath of Frost' by Alyxandra Harvey

For Emma and her cousins, life in Regency London is a whirlwind of lavish balls and dashing suitors. But, unlike other girls, they are not longing for marriage. A spell has been broken, a debutante lies dead at Emma's feet, frost clinging to her lifeless body, and a bright light is being cast into the cousins shadowy past. Now the girls must embrace the true Lovegrove Legacy - even if that means risking their own lives. Although, Cormac Fairfax, a member of the Order of the Iron Nail wants to help Emma, and she can't explain why.

 

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'A Breath of Frost' was a gorgeously-gothic and gripping novel, set in Regency London, filled with witchery, warlocks, spells and secrets . Admittedly, I was hesitant when I initially picked up this book. Not only had it come in the post without me realising I was receiving Alyxandra Harvey's latest, but it is nearly five-hundred pages long, and has quite a small-font. Reading the blurb, it sounded intriguing, although I was expecting to find yet another fantasy novel that focuses mainly on the romance, rather than the mythical-creatures and magic. I was proved wrong, despite a slow-start in the first few chapters. I adored this read, that combined multiple genres: fantasy, historical and romance, and still managed to have humour and wit. As a fan of Sarah J. Maas' 'Throne of Glass', this was perfect to curl-up to with the wintry-weather outside, and people who love the style of Cassandra Clare need to pick this up!

Historical-fans, just like myself, are going to be championing this new trilogy. Regency London is intricately described: a world full of balls, seasons and finishing school. Add some magic to that, it's an extremely-detailed tale, where you soon realise things are not safe. Harvey's writing is so stylish, I was envious of her pen and prose, the way she had the ability to create a set of mythical creatures, familiars, and make all of her main-characters feel real. Emma Day, and her cousins Penelope and Gretchen have a heart-warming friendship, and it's refreshing to see such a bond between literary-characters. They have clear personalities and traits, this is not a book where you have to flick back a few pages to find out who's perspective you are reading from or who's talking, it's clear from their personalities. You will never have as much fun reading about these girls; whether that's when Gretchen is arguing with her mother, or Penelope is reciting Shakespeare.

Emma Day should be applauded for her determination as she's not one to phase easily. Even when she realises she has antlers on her head! She's got a feisty-personality that really helps to drive this plot, along with the fact she is extremely strong-willed. Penelope and Gretchen's friendship with Emma made possibly my favourite fictional-friendship - Gretchen's rebellious side makes her easily loveable, in a way where she is completely out-of-place at the balls that come with being a debutante. She hides in libraries - so, I must ask, can I character be anymore relatable? Penelope is sophisticated, smart and a person that connects with the reader. Cormac Fairfax, our love-interest, surprisingly has many-layers, a backstory you want to know, and reasons for his choices. Harvey doesn't just create the typical boy that all young girls will want to read about. Sometimes though, he does coincidentally turn-up, rather than Emma sorting through a problem.

 

From suspicions raised by the Order, to discovering what Emma's mother did, and finding Greymalkin warlocks, this is not a book you can read at night! What it is though is an enjoyable and exciting blend of genres. The familiars, the spells, the family-history - there are answers to most of your questions. There are gargoyles lurking everywhere, Madcaps on rooftops, spells being broken.

 

Of course, I'll say I didn't turn the first page and love it. It was quite slow to begin with, and hard to slip-into, and the writing was repetitive with some of the sentences and phrases. It is not too long but, more action in places would have improved the parts where I felt that my mind was drifting elsewhere.

Thank you to Bloomsbury for providing me with this review-copy. This in no way affected my opinion on the book.

Four Stars to the Cousins.

 

 

 

Fandom Freak-Out #2 - TFiOS Trailer Reaction

Unless the internet is the bane of your existence, you may have not heard of a small book called 'The Fault in Our Stars', written by John Green, about two teenagers - who are both cancer sufferers - that meet at Cancer Kid Support Group, and fall in love. If you have not yet picked it up,  I can't urge you enough to do so, as it is a beautiful and compelling novel, and, admittedly, a tear-jerker. Why I am writing this post, though? The adaptation of the movie(which will have it's official release in the UK on June 20th) now has a trailer, not the leaked version, but a high-quality one, and it is perfection. Now, this is not cookie dough ice-cream perfection; this is not curled up with a hot-drink and a good book perfection; but instead this is the use of the word 'perfect' that involves staying true to a book when making it into a film - not re-creating it.

 

If you haven't yet seen the amazing trailer - grab the tissues!

 

 

Let's start at the beginning - the beginning of what could be a blabber of completely incoherent thoughts, and I apologise for that! I don't think I could have been more hesitant when it came to the announcement that Shailene Woodley would be playing Hazel-Grace. I have never seen any of her films before, but I was worried, as she is already one of my favourite YA book-characters in the adaptation of Divergent. Even so, I regret doubting her, as not once did I think, when watching the trailer for the first, or fifth, or tenth time, "She's Tris" and I've only just remembered. Woodley has Hazel's mannerisms, actions and voice spot-on, like she came straight from the book!

 

I cried. I couldn't help it. This trailer really brings-across how emotional and heart-wrenching the story is, but it doesn't just do that. It's about hope, and life, and how it's not always perfect but it's what you do with the few infinities. The moment Ansel Elgort - as Gus Waters - appeared in the trailer, after the faultless beginning from Woodley(which is all-so-sweet until the truth hits you), this was around the time I began to sob. I've loved this casting choice for Gus since the beginning, and Elgort didn't let me down, the moment he said the infamous 'Oblivion' line, and then you saw the chemistry as Woodley as Hazel rolled her eyes - in what must be the most accurate description taken from book-to-screen of the 'Literal Heart of Jesus' -  I was drawn-in. There was not a line he said that I didn't remember from the book, and I, for one, was wishing for my own Gus Waters when he told Hazel that she's 'Beautiful.' You can see they are normal young-people, and they want that, and this was also one of my favourite parts of the book, so I honestly couldn't be happier as a fan to see that these castings are more than just believable.

 

One pet-peeve of mine is when the people behind film adaptations decide to change things; decide that the book, that has thousands, even millions, of fans is not 'good enough.' I think this is okay(unintended pun) when it wouldn't translate well on the screen, but with TFiOS, everything works. There is not one moment that I can't see working in June, and I was ecstatic to notice that that was what the people working on the movie must have thought too(only I do think John Green's complete involvement played a huge part). The trailer screamed, "DETAILS!" - and I adored it. For example, Hazel's Cannula, the way she pulls along her Oxygen Tank, the every-day clothing that is so simple, the way they didn't shy away from the fact Issac is blind, and finally the swing-set! I was hoping to see that, as it was part of one of my favourite scenes in the book! It's a gorgeous trailer, beautifully tied-together, and with most of the book-quotes I added to my 'Goodreads' list because I liked them that much, or highlighted when I read it on my Kindle.

 

 It's surprising how much they can fit-into one trailer, but they also leave enough for us to see when the movie is actually-out. It's not all sugar-coated, all about enjoying life, it's raw and honest, and I loved seeing how hard-hitting those parts were, as it did make me realise how I'm not going to be able to watch this in the cinema; although I still will. I have complete faith in this movie being one of, if not the best, adaptation I've seen!

 

"Okay." The final word of the trailer. The most heart-wrenching, gut-churning, tear-jerking moment that they could have thrown in, as if book-lovers did not already have tears pooling in their eyes. I have to admit, If not when we first meet Gus, this may just be my final moment. Okay? I don't think any of us were after seeing it!

 

What was your favourite part of the trailer?

Book Review: Leopold Blue by Rosie Rowell

Leopold Blue was the first Contemporary novel I read this year, and it was very-different when compared to the books in this genre that I read in 2013. It dealt with politics, and other beliefs, as well as the equality between white and black people.

'No adventure or tragedy had come my way, nor ever would, not in Leopold...Despair hovered in doorways and oozed down telephone receivers. It formed a film over the eyes of those who had lived here forever, who would and could never leave. It was contagious...Without some miraculous intervention, I was in danger of getting stuck here, being me, for the rest of my life'

 

South Africa, 1993, and Meg is a restless fifteen-year-old in the midst of smothering social and political turmoil. When your own mother is campaigning to educate people on how not to die, your own personal anxieties are belittled. Your life made trivial.

 

Then Meg befriends Xanthe. Self-contained, rebellious and achingly cool Xanthe, and she begins to glimpse a life outside of her family. But by stepping away from her mother and into Xanthe's world, Meg is caught up in the chaos of adolescent longing and the pain of betrayal...And she soon realises that all that glitters is hardly ever gold.

 

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'Leopold Blue' is set in a very important time in history; one that many young people are oblivious to, but should be reading about. This was a setting that was very prominent when reading Rosie Rowell's debut novel, especially after the recent death of Nelson Mandela, who was mentioned throughout the book. This was also a novel that not only tackled politics, and this was widely-discussed, but also the way that South Africa was changing during the 1990's and the belief that black people were not equal to those who were white began to end. Rowell writes this stylishly, perfectly capturing life in Leopold, a small-town that our main protagonist, fifteen year-old Meg, fears she will never be able to escape from.

 

Meg is a character that will be familiar to all teenagers who pick up this novel, if not for the fact she has to deal with peer-pressure in her attempt to finally keep the friend she finds, endless arguments with her parents who keep her from 'fitting-in' and the jealousy she feels for a boy called Simon, who's A Grades have meant she has always been compared to him. Meg, when we first meet her, has no friends. She's restless. In a town that runs deep with family-history and ties, with beliefs and traditions that have been there for what seems like forever, Meg's mum makes it difficult for the family to be a part of the community. This was also another aspect of the novel that was an interesting look at the difference between our times, and the 1990s. Her mum has a different-outlook on Leopold, and is trying to campaigning to help people with AIDS, a life-threatening disease but, the town dislikes her for it. Whilst reading, you wonder why Meg is so critical of her mum's choice to try and save lives, but shockingly, something like this separates them from the rest of town.

 

Xanthe is rebellious, outgoing and uncontrollable, and when she is seated beside Meg at school, after recently moving from Cape Town, its clear she is different from the other girls. Not scared of being the centre of attention, Xanthe is very much a force to contend with throughout this novel, and Rowell writes honestly about what it is like to show that you are 'cool' in front of your friends. We can all relate to the way Meg is desperate to keep the first friend she has had, and to follow-her into situations she would rather avoid.  There's peer-pressure, and the need to simply 'fit-in' when Meg is used to not doing so. From missing a school class, to taking drugs and drinking under-age, our main character is willing to go-against those that she loves, including her younger sister, Beth, to not feel lonely again.

 

There's jealousy, anger and upset; friendship, family and feuds. Rowell's debut is a coming-of-age novel that is all about finding-yourself and the pressures of being young. It does have some strong language, which does only make it more believable, and 'Leopold Blue' could have been made better by there being more of a background of life in South Africa, in 1993. The political-side of things is interesting and intriguing, but there were some parts I couldn't understand, as I have never looked at this period of history before. There's no doubt that other teenagers may feel this way. Some parts of this novel were slow-paced, but I could still relate to the characters throughout.

 

4 Stars to Rosie Rowell's Debut!

Thank you to Hot Key Books for providing me with this review-copy, in exchange for an honest review!

 

Book Review: 'Matched' by Ally Condie

Matched is a book that has been on my shelf for over a year; and I can't believe I have only just read it! I fell in love with the characters: Cassia, Ky and Xander, and was completely engrossed in the Society that they live in.

On her seventeenth birthday, Cassia meets her Match. Society dictates he is her perfect partner for life.

 

Except he's not.

 

In Cassia's society, Officials decide who people love.

How many children they have.

Where they work.

When they die.

 

But, as Cassia finds herself falling in love with another boy, she is determined to make some choices of her own.

 

And that's when her whole world begins to unravel.

 

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Matched has everything a perfect dystopia novel needs: a main character, Cassia, that you will be rooting for within every chapter, if not for her determination, but for the way everything comes back to the effect it will have on those she cares about, a love triangle that will have you changing your mind almost as many times as you turn the page of the book, a beautifully-written romance that will have you overcome with emotions and a Society that isn't as perfect as it would like you to think. As my first read of 2014, it set the standards high!

 

Ally Condie creates a world where you have no choices, where every decision is made for you by an over-controlling Society. The novel begins on the night of Cassia's Matching Ceremony, where she will see the boy that she will one day get married to and have children with - all when the Society says she can ,of course. Admittedly, Condie builds this world effortlessly, and you become completely immersed in it within pages. You can clearly see the character growth and how Cassia's mind changes about the world she lives in, going from the night she has been waiting for, to realising that she no longer wants that.  I adored the simplicity yet, beauty of the writing and the way poetry and stories were interwoven in the plot. You always had questions about the Society, wondering what they will do or if they would ever notice Cassia's Infractions, all of which allow you to see the cracks forming in the 'perfect' Society - yes, they may have a longer life-expectancy, yes, they may have banished Cancer, but who can make the decision of when you die? Who can just accept that?

 

Matched is a heart-racing and gripping read that I couldn't put down. It has various sub-plots , but you're never confused or thinking about something going on elsewhere. Cassia's personality captures your attention while her questions about who she loves keeps it there - there is a simplicity to the friendship that Cassia and Xander have always have, and how suddenly things change because of one decision, while there is a complexity to Ky that Cassia notices, and that intrigues the reader. The two love-interests are not just that, they have interesting personalities, and different feelings. As you may know, I'm not normally a fan of love-triangles, but I applaud the author for executing this with the right balance of romance and love, with a gritty, captivating plot to co-exist with that!

 

Cassia is one of my new favourite fictional females because of the way you see her, through the course of the novel, not instantly rebelling because she 'just wants to be with another boy.' Instead, she realises she should be able to make her own choices, and she slowly moves against the Society as she unravels the truth about the world she's trapped in but, has tried to fit into to. You are angry at the way someone has already predicted what Cassia will achieve, the way she has a certain amount of time in which she can socialise and the way there is always someone watching. Our protagonist doesn't start rebelling or becoming reckless, instead, it always comes back to protecting others.

 

The detail and thought that has gone into writing this novel is clear as it comes to it's climax, and that's both shocking and surreal. The only reason this is not a five-star is because of one slightly confusing plot-line that saw me have to flick back to re-read a few pages.  This novel is a must-read - and almost an insight to our future where we will have no choices of our own. I finished this book at 1am, and if that is not incentive to go and get yourself a copy, I don't know what is!

 

 

Ages 12+

I'm currently reading 'Crossed' and I think I can honestly say, this is one of my favourite series' out there!
By the way, I just noticed I have reached 40,000 PAGEVIEWS! This is such a surreal achievement for me, and I can't think you enough for reading my blog! :D

Book Review: That Burning Summer by Lydia Syson

England, 1940

 

With was raging in the skies above the Channel, Peggy is putting on a brave face, but she knows Germany could invade any day. Though the family farm and her brother, Ernert's, worries keep her busy, it's hard to ignore the rumble of guns, the rumours of spies and the malicious gossip in town. Peggy must grown up fast - and when a young Polish pilot, Henryk, crash-lands near her home, she  faces a terrible test of love and loyalty. When so much could go wrong.

In one extraordinary burning summer, her life will change forever.

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'That Burning Summer' was an eye-opening book. Bringing forward a hidden part of History in the form of Henryk, it had a sophisticated yet simple writing style that brought alive a captivating romance that I was willing on!  Set in England during 1940, Germany could invade any day but, no one knows when. In the middle of this is sixteen year old Peggy who, does something that may have severe consequences for two of our main protagonists.

 

I felt very connected to the characters from the beginning; their stories were realistic and from the switching point of views, you got a very clear image of their personalities. Not just that though, you got a sense of their fears - and I liked that their experiences had affected them - and a piece of their past in the form of flashbacks from Henryk about his time in the Polish Air Force.  Of course, with Henryk there were always a wavering doubt with him - but, the way Syson has written it allows you to see various sides of the same time in History. Peggy is the driving-force of this novel, no doubt. She is coming-of-age in a difficult time and falling in love when all she can rely on is trust. While reading this book, you won't be able to help imagining yourself in her shoes. Ernest was a character that represented the fact that children can't just be hidden from War - I did like that they all stood for something; that they were all telling the same story although very different ideas. But, siblings and their curiosity get in the way, don't they?

 

A leaflet is presented to you at the beginning at the book that you soon find out was sent out to all members of the public detailing how to act in a German invasion. The novel was set around 'If the Invader Comes' and each part was set around one of the rules listed.  Peggy's brother becomes fixated on these rules, and keeps a watchful eye out for the Germans. Ernest wants to be the man in the family yet, feels he has to prove it to himself. At this point, the excitement really picked up!  The listing idea gave the novel a clear-structure, something I really liked and even foreshadowed what may happen in the next chapter. This was one of the main parts of the book, it kept me reading. I couldn't help but guess, think about and start going 'I know what's going to happen!" Syson took on a challenging part of this period of History - I know the story behind what happened but, only the more well-known information.

 

There was a romance building up throughout this - and, I'm not over-exaggerating when I say this is one of the most well-written I have come across in a while. It was given time to build-up and kept me turning the pages - I was rooting for them, and the danger of things going wrong brought tension into the plot.

 

Although, I enjoyed this, I did find some parts of the plot confusing at times, which meant I had to flick back and try to find out which character it was, for example. Also, 'That Burning Summer' came to a really abrupt ending. At what I felt was in the middle of the action, and a good-chance to throw in a heart-racing scene, it stopped - and an Epilogue that was quite blunt filled it's place. The Epilogue wasn't needed for me, and left me with too many loose-ends. I know there's not any sequel in the works at the moment but, I wanted more from the execution of ending the book the way it began. The writing also lost a poetic-feel it had in the first few chapters - something I adored as it was so unique in a crowded-place. I do feel like I am being a bit harsh on this book - but, I am definitely going to find some time to read Syson's other novel.

 

Thank you Hot Key Books!

 

I had a free-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

 

 

I do completely recommended checking out Lydia's website which I linked above! I am the only one who just adores the layout? Also, If you want to check out my new rating system and what it means, you can find it on my sidebar!

Mini Reviews: Amber & Resist(Breathe #2)

'Resist' by Sarah Crossan

Everyone knows that life beyond The Pod is possible. But they are trapped - each breth controlled by the Ministry.

 

The Grove was rebels' chance of freedom. Now the Ministry has destroyed it and survivors must search for hope elsewhere. Alina lead the way to the only remaining Resistance base, Sequia. There she uncovers a radical plot that could wipe out the Pod...and all those in it.

 

Together with Quinn, Alina must escape Sequoia and save the people they love.

  

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I've been anticipating Resist for a long time, especially since Breathe has a high-ranking place on my favourite books list. Sadly, though, I found myself disappointed when I started to read this book.

 

I'll begin by mentioning the cover; the green completely reflects the environment and what the Resistance is fighting for. Sadly though, the main focus - and heart - of the series was lost in this sequel, with the writing feeling forced at times. The romance, between Bea and Quinn, involved too many cliché lines for me personally, and I felt I lost my connection with them because of this. I really wanted to love this book, by sadly my expectations fell short.

 

Resist is once again told from multiple narratives, this time adding a new character called Ronan into the mix. I adore this style of telling a novel, even so, I wish the main characters could have come-together more often and made choices regarding The Pod and Resistance. Crossan is able to, something that makes her a really talented writer, create four distinguishable characters with very different experiences despite living in the same world. Alina, Quinn and Bea, our three main protagonists that have followed us through from the first book have all grown, despite still being the people we first met at the beginning of Breathe. Alina is strong-willed, fighting for her right to Breathe and is undeniable loyal, something that is admirable in this heroine while Bea is intelligent, witty and has the strength to continue despite her parents' deaths. Despite not being the number one fan of the plot, no-matter what I was rooting for these characters. Quinn and Ronan have complicated story-lines in which their characters cross-paths which I would have definitely have liked to see become more in-depth.

 

Whilst I struggled to immerse myself in this book during the first three parts, the final two were much stronger. Finally, I found heart-racing and fast-paced action, in which I found the style of Crossan's writing that I loved from the first-novel seeping through. There was a lot of tension built up in these closing one hundred pages, and I couldn't put the book down. Resist left me constantly wondering and waiting, I never did know for sure what would happen next! There were some loose-ends when it all came to an end; I can't help but question what happened to my favourite side-characters!

Resist was much more mature than the initial book, something I wasn't expecting and found myself feeling slightly uncomfortable reading. So, as for the sequel, I do recommend it for slightly older readers, leaning towards 13+.

Thank you to Bloomsbury for proving me with this copy in exchange for a review!

'Amber' by Julie Sykes 

How do you live by the rules if you don’t know what they are?

A teenage girl wakes up with no memory of who she is or where she has come from. The only clues to her identity are a dead mobile phone in her pocket and a beautiful amber necklace around her neck.

 

Suddenly, 'Amber' has a brand-new life, a brand-new name and a whole lot of questions. Disturbed by strange visions and powers, she struggles to understand the rules that everyone seems to know. How can Amber make sense of the person she seems to be? Does she even want to be that person anymore?

And by falling in love with her new friend, Dan is she breaking the one

rule that really matters?

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From the gorgeous cover(Which I must admit is one of my favourites) to a captivating plot, Amber is a gem-stone of a novel! It has a perfect mix of genres: fantasy, contemporary and romance, with some time-travel thrown in, all coming together to make this un-putdownable. I will admit, while reading, there was a point where I thought I had over one-hundred pages left, but really there were only forty! I didn't leave this book long before picking it back up and continuing!

 

Our main protagonist, a teenage girl who names herself Amber because of the necklace she finds around her neck after she wakes up with no recollection of who she is. Amber is plagued by strange visions and powers that feel so naturally yet, it comes to a point where she realises she must hide them. The way Sykes has written this allows us to get snippets, and small pieces of information handed to us, like she is constantly teasing the reader. This only made me become more intrigued; while also creating a balance of Amber finding a new-life, making new friends, and discovering herself. In many ways, being thrown into a situation you feel out-of-place in is something many young people can relate to. Although, Amber must do this, and find herself when she has no-idea who she is or what she might have done in the past.

 

The writing is the book allowed time for each new setting to be given a detailed description, as well as match the voice of a teenage girl. It was completely creative, bringing new inventive ideas into a genre I have read many times, as well as throwing in a love-interest and 'villains' to make this plot even better. Amber was completely packed with suspense and surprises, the excitement is there throughout. I spent most of the weekend I read it in with my head buried in this book!

This book has everything that I was expecting and more; an intriguing plot, a rule-breaking romance and hidden secrets bringing in the suspense. Definitely one that anyone will find an enjoyable read!

 

Thank you to Amber from The Mile Long Bookshelf for my amazing new rating system!

Thank you to Curious Fox for another review-copy as part of Team Fox!

 

Book Review: Shipwrecked by Siobhan Curham

I read this as part of a read-a-long for 'Fandom Freak Out' with Jack and Zoe. It was a lot to just talk about the book and I now have friends to anticipate the sequel with. Also, a big thanks to Siobhan Curham for joining in with our conversations and following the read-a-long!

 

I jump at the sound of a whispered voice over my shoulder. But when I turn around all I see is sand, and the towering, green wall of the rainforest. I guess it must have been the breeze, but I can't help shivering. I have the weirdest feeling that we're being watched.

 

Grace Delaney and her fellow dance students are en route to perform on a South Pacific cruise-ship when a freak storm hits and they find themselves stranded on a seemingly deserted island.

 

With the tropical heat rising, passions and tensions swell to breaking point. And the island itself is quietly steaming with a terrible secret...

 

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Shipwrecked for me, was like eating my favourite ice-cream. I knew I should stop(as I was participating in a read-a-long of four chapters a day), but I just couldn't put it down. It's was bursting with different flavours of character and the surprises thrown at you resembling the Chocolate Flake they sometimes add!

The concept in Shipwrecked was such a refreshing idea, that was also highly entertaining! From a gripping plot, to laugh-out-loud moments and a heart-thumping romance this is definitely a Saga I will continue to read as the books are released over the next few years. There was betrayal, hidden secrets and mysteries all thrown into a novel packed full of different genres: contemporary, fantasy, romance and adventure.

There was a huge cast of characters in Shipwrecked: dance students you could love and hate alike. Our main protagonist seventeen year-old Grace really does grow throughout the novel and by the end was clearly able to stand up to her at times judgemental peers. Grace was relatable, determined and caring - despite being self-conscious and uncomfortable in her own skin, just like all teenage girls are from time-to-time. I admit, it did take me a few chapters to begin to enjoy her point of view and narrative, especially when she was comparing herself to other girls who her own boyfriend could be interested in. Dance was her escape from a broken-down family and you get the chance to dig-deeper into this.

 

With so many personalities, you'd think it would be hard to remember them all. But, I found I could remember them with ease: Grace's boyfriend Todd and her 'best-friend' Jenna; the spoilt, Daddy's girl Cariss; The Flea, a light-hearted, fun friend; Belle, who was struggling away from home and was definitely 'outside of the group' and the non-English speaking Cruz. It's hard to talk about his character without giving too much away, but he was so interesting. His whole demeanour, the way his character works with Grace and the slight hints of romance all lead to something bigger. It's true to say the island is home to all emotions as tensions rise. There's blame, anger and betrayal, secrets and romance. It is literally chilling!

 

At this point in the review, I'm shocked that I haven't commented on Curham's writing style. It was so vivid and imaginative - allowing you to easily picture the scenes with whatever atmosphere the author feels like throwing at you next. Which I loved - as there were always surprises to keep you turning the page. I applaud Curham for the way she handled this novel, being so different from her previous books, I was really impressed! 

 

The few reasons that this book received a four star rating from me because of the problems I had with the romance that is in this novel. Without giving too much away, I thought it all happened too fast and didn't really build-up. It just happened between what I felt were two strangers.

 

There are still a few weeks of Summer of left so, I suggest you go and get this book as soon as possible! Even on a rainy day, you'll definitely feel the heat!

 

4 Stars - For ages 13+

You can also enter a giveaway to WIN A SIGNED COPY of 'Shipwrecked' HERE.

Review: After Eden by Helen Douglas

If love is in the stars, maybe it will find you one dark night, when you least expect it...

The mysterious Ryan has just appeared in Eden's life -suddenly as if from nowhere. He's gorgeous, irresistible, but of all the girls vying for his attention it's only Eden he seems interested in. Eden's 'best friend' Connor is not so impressed. But, as Eden's feelings for Ryan grow, so her questions about him increase.

Where has this beautiful boy come from and why has he chosen her? In losing her heart, Eden discovers she risks nothing less than the future of plant Earth.

Can we just take a moment to stare at that gorgeous cover? It's so vibrant.

I enjoyed this. No, I really enjoyed this. After Eden is a beautifully crafted, enthralling and exciting read. I fell in love with all of the characters, and couldn't get enough of the unique premise and plot. This was so good.

From the moment I opened this book, I fell in love with the setting - Perran. The descriptions were detailed, and I could picture all of the settings so vividly in my mind. I was able to slip into this world, and quite frankly, didn't want to leave. The writing is also beautiful, I completely adored it. I couldn't seem to get enough, and unlike most Science Fiction books, I learnt a lot from it. The constellations were really focused on, and the plot was perfectly paced.

The part of the novel that is about time-travel is so well understood, although it leaves you asking questions and wanting to know more. After Eden is completely unique. It packs Science Fiction, Romance and even a bit of Contemporary into one. Of course, there is the small subject of the romance between Ryan and Eden. Their romance builds up throughout the chapters, and you find yourself endlessly waiting for them to kiss. I found it so much fun, exciting and very much cute. I mean, it was also hilarious, as they are really a pair of average teenagers. Every page that went by you discovered more about him, and really, the plot become more daring.

Sixteen year-old Eden quickly became one of my personal favourite female protagonists. She was an unsuspecting heroine, and so relatable. One minute she is a normal teenager, studying for exams in a small countryside town - and the next she's thrown into world where Earth's existence in the future is something she is risking. Not only is Eden smart, and holds her wit, she's funny, entertaining and realistic. There was also a very determined side to her, where you will find yourself rooting her on. Other times, she will have you laughing at some sarcastic comment. The way she accepted things I was in awe off. Ryan Westland is gorgeous, outgoing and mysterious. You get to know him a bit more and he is still just that.

 

 This book is effortlessly gripping. I mean, this was just so good. As for shocks, and unexpected twists, it certainly had a few of those. On one occasion towards the end of the book I was on the edge of my seat. I can't really express why I liked it so much, but for some reason I couldn't put it down! The build up to the ending was shocking, and I can't wait to read the sequel.

 

The word I am really looking for is refreshing. It's completely new, exciting, unique. It has an interesting set of characters including a deadly villain and what about that cover? My only downside is the romance is a bit too sickly sweet - although cute.

Rating: 4.5
Recommended for: Ages 12+

Publication: 4th July 2013
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Review: The Selection by Kiera Cass

In a Palace full of rivals, only one can win His heart...
 

For thirty five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them in their Castes and be swept up into a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in the Palace, and compete for the heart of gorgeous Prince Maxon. To become the 'One'.

The Selection (The SelectioBut, for America Singer, being part of the Selection is a nightmare. To her, it means turning her back on her secret lover Aspen, leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Being followed around by camera's and having her every step documented. Living in a palace tat is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.

When America meets Maxon, all her plans start to crumble. Can the life she's always planned for herself, compare to a future she has never imagined? But this is a fierce competition, and the winner will become Queen.

Just look at the cover? It's beautiful! You really can judge a book by it's cover.

From the first page, you are introduced to the protagonist, America Singer and the future she lives in. Set in dystopia America, now called Illea, the society has been split into Castes based on what type of work you do. What I loved about America was how she was herself throughout the novel and how her character makes you want to read on. She may break her society's rules but she tries to do everything in her family's interest, or somebody's close to her. America is a 'Five', one of the lower castes in the system that goes to 'Eight'. Her caste means she is a performer and, just like her name, sings and is fluent in many different instruments. She grew throughout the competition and made friends, got a stronger personality and despite being confused about her feelings, she was trying. America was completely relatable: She's indecisive, yes, but kind, caring and strong. Who can't help but want to read about her? Maybe it was the way she never wanted to be a part of everything, but just had to accept it-that made me like her so much.

There was quite a wide cast of characters, from America's family to the other Selected girls and the monarchy. There are a few girls that the author really focuses on and I loved how you could also get to know a little about them. There are girls you instantly can't stand and you can clearly see how they manipulate people while others you are secretly rooting for. Prince Maxon, was always very open about his feelings, and you could just see he wanted a confidant. He was gentle, compassionate but wise. Although the Prince, he has his moments which made him real. His fear of crying-girls added humour to both the book and himself which I just loved.I was supporting his character the whole way through.

The scenes are beautifully described and breath-taking whilst the writing keeps you gripped. I couldn't stop turning the pages and never wanted it to end. Personalities grew and so did relationships. I was captivate from start-to-end in this complicated future. The Selection has been noted 'The Hunger Games' meets 'The Bachelor' and as I've read/watched both of these, I agree it has some aspects but can completely stand on it's own. It was perfectly-plotted with a fairytale style and settings I adored.. The realistic emotions and feelings, the twists in the plot, the way it is paced, everything.

 

There was also a love-triangle fitted into this plot as well as the competition itself. This novel was packed with a bit of everything. It's world you can only dream of as a child, but it has it's hidden secrets. It makes you ask questions you want the answers to and one thing you realise is that it's not just the girls that have their own secrets. As for the love-triangle, I'm not normally a huge fan, but this was well-written and unique, exciting and fiery. It's treason - what are they doing? It also left some exciting idea's for the sequel, which, with the rebels only getting closer, the build up will make this a series to watch. This is the type of book that will keep you up until 2am just to finish it, and will have you jaw-dropped and jumping with joy all in one. I felt this could be getting drawn out slightly too long, as I wanted a stand-alone that let you find out who would become the 'One'. For ages 12+ - ****

 

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Who's excited for The Elite, out in 17 days?