Clockwork Princess

Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Clare. The third and final book in The Infernal Devices series.
(You should be warned that this will be a long review...and there will also be some spoilers for the third book and definitely some from the fist and second books too, which I won't warn you about. I'll try for the ones from this book though)
Book description: THE INFERNAL DEVICES WILL NEVER STOP COMING

A net of shadows begins to tighten around the Shadowhunters of the London Institute. Mortmain plans to use his Infernal Devices, an army of pitiless automatons, to destroy the Shadowhunters. He needs only one last item to complete his plan: he needs Tessa Gray.

Charlotte Branwell, head of the London Institute, is desperate to find Mortmain before he strikes. But when Mortmain abducts Tessa, the boys who lay equal claim to her heart, Jem and Will, will do anything to save her. For though Tessa and Jem are now engaged, Will is as much in love with her as ever.

As those who love Tessa rally to rescue her from Mortmain’s clutches, Tessa realizes that the only person who can save her is herself. But can a single girl, even one who can command the power of angels, face down an entire army?

Danger and betrayal, secrets and enchantment, and the tangled threads of love and loss intertwine as the Shadowhunters are pushed to the very brink of destruction in the breathtaking conclusion to the Infernal Devices trilogy. (taken from Amazon)


Objectionable:Language was a 1, there are battles fought with demons and reanimated demons with automaton bodies, many injuries, mass murder briefly described, kidnapping. Will & Tessa have sex but the scene stops after they both agree it's what they want and some clothes have been removed while they were making out. (SPOILER:they get married later)  Supernatural creatures, an angel trapped and drugs mentioned.

Thoughts:Wow. This is going to be hard. I mean the wow in two ways. A)Wow, this review is going to be hard to write without rambling and confusion...and getting everything out the way I want it to. And B)Wow this book was so amazing! I was dying for this book ever since I read the last word in Clockwork Prince. And I was in no way disappointed. I was scared to start this book and at the same time dying to know what would happen. But I didn't want something tragic to happen that I didn't like. I didn't want Tessa to necessarily end up with either guy because I wanted her to end up with both! And I didn't want anyone to die. Never ever are they allowed to die. Which brings me to the warning to all readers...I cried a lot in this book at several parts. Near the end and during the whole epilogue the most though. The epilogue is evil and right and so tragic and sad and right and perfect all put together. But first the thoughts that come before that...

Plot & Writing

The plot was killer. From the first pages to the last word it was thrilling. The first chapter really got it started with a bang and there weren't really any slow parts except (possibly) a few pages in the middle. I enjoyed every moment I was reading this book, whether I was crying or not :/ Everything was tied up really well. (REALLY REALLY BIG SPOILER) The whole thing with Tessa's angel being a real angel? I adored that! I adored how everything was stopped when it was unleashed and she saved them all by turning into the angel. It was just perfect. (DONE) The romance side of the plot was tied up just the way I wanted (kinda) and I was really happy with the ending of this series. I loved every minute I was reading. I know I already said that, but it's true. I can't help but think of this book and just smiling. So long as I don't think about the sad stuff. Which was done really well and tragically. Like really sad and beautiful and makes me want to go cry some more. More on that later. The writing was interesting and kept you interested and had this refined and Infernal Devices feel. Like it was just for this series. Possibly the characters or a certain way Clare wrote for the time period and all, but I felt it. It was a really nice style and just felt like the books. It's weird :P

Romance, Jem, and crying.

(This whole section is going to be a big spoiler probably. Just so you know :D)

Though your body is without soul.

Though your mind is without thought.

We know your story will be retold.

We know you valiantly fought.

And though this battle you've lost,

another you've won.

~To Jem 

(I wrote that ^^ after he had "died"...kinda dorky I know :P)

It was so beautiful. Well obviously the book not me, I had snot and tears all over me and wadded up tissues. I cried for a while after finishing the epilogue too. When Jem said goodbye to Tessa and Will to be a Silent Brother completely. When the life of Will and then the loss of him was told. Jem's tears when he found out Tessa & Will's first child was named James. Tessa wanting to tell Will something and he was gone. How she always saw him as the young Shadowhunter she knew, even when he was old and gray. And how she forgot his exact eye color, the stunning blue. (No...I'm crying again *sniffs*) All that kept me crying and still is. It was perfect how it came out. After about a century Jem and Tessa finally are able to get together, a cure has finally be found. Even though he'll die like Will one day, she still chooses to be with him and she proposes on the bridge they walked on in Clockwork Angel. Cassandra Clare said in the sort of historical note that the idea bloomed on that bridge and it seemed fit to end it on the bridge. I was scared and I was kinda right. I cried and everything was tragic, sad, beautiful and so torturous but I wanted it to be. It was PERFECT. I couldn't have let the series end in any other way. I forced myself to finish the epilogue and get past Will's death. But I was loving the characters the whole way through despite the tears. It ended beautifully. I couldn't have picked one boy for Tessa to end up with. Even though I was Team Jem. I was also Team Will at the same time :/ But everything about the ending and how she and they got both of them was perfect. The torture and then perfectness of everything evening out was so great. Will and Jem loved Tessa so much, but would have stepped aside for each other. Because they were so alike and loved each other so much. And she saw that loved them both and agh...it's so beautiful. *breathes deeply* I think I'm okay now.

Overall

This book, this series...it's amazing. You should read it. It's clean apart from brief language, a couple of a bit steamy scenes and some violence. And the plot, the characters everything else is beautiful. Will will make you laugh. Jem will make you smile. The character you will simply fall in love with, head over heels. And for the bookworm nerds out there who love the classics will love how many quotes and references there are to several classics in pretty much all the books in this series. I would recommend to YA (14 I guess) girls and y'all must read this series. It's one of my favorite, favorite, favorites!

Quotes

"Will," She whispered again, drawing her arms about herself. She was sure it had been his voice she had heard calling her name. No one else's voice sounded like his. But it was ridiculous He was not here. He could not be. Perhaps, like Jane Eyre who had heard Rochester's voice calling for heron the moors, she was half-dreaming. ~Page 307

"Charlotte?"

"Yes?"

"Have you won the fight about what to call the child yet?"

Charlotte gave a startled laugh. It seemed odd to think about her child now, but then why not? In death, we are in life. It was something to think about that was not illness, or Tessa's disappearance, or Will's dangerous mission. "Not yet," she said. "Henry is still insisting on Buford." ~Page 293

Characters:There was so much turmoil for me starting this book. I was dying to know what would happen. But I was really scared because I loved the characters so much. Jem is so special and kind. He's the boy who hardly ever gets angry, is so gently and delicately beautiful and loves so strongly. He puts others first even when he is dying. He is so beautiful. Will is the character who was under the most change possibly. Although Tessa, Jem, and he are all going through this together and it's painful and confusing for all of them he is still reeling from the discovery of his curse not being a real curse. Or at least not the curse he thought it was. Anyway, he is still learning how to love now that he can. Plus his sister's arrival at the Institute shakes him up as well. Then comes everything that does in this book. I think that almost every reader can find that this book ended the series perfectly. But while reading it everything the characters go through is terrible and scary, if you love them as much as I do. Will is the guy who is snarky and witty, he can quote poetry and doesn't hurt the eyes to look at...at all. But he's just so many sides and in this book we got to see a little more of his reserved careful side. Which I liked. Tessa is a great character too, she finally figures out who she is and she comes to terms with loving both boys. Which makes sense. I couldn't have chosen either. And that might sound weird, the last few sentences, but if you've read the series you'll get it. Tessa is such a great main character (although it seems like Will and Jem are main characters too...) and I love her so much. She's a bookworm and she's shy and feisty at the same time. She's ready to give herself up to the Mortmain to save someone she loves. Sophie and Gideon were a delight to me in this book. I love Sophie and I was happy to see her get her own story and romance. The scones part? One of my many favorites in this book :D She's such a strong, determined, beautiful girl! Gideon and Gabriel play a bigger part in this book and I was really happy to get to know them both better. Gideon we already knew pretty well from Clockwork Prince, but not really Gabriel. It's funny to see how he is a lot like Will and he's also just a big softy pretending to be tough (at times anyway). He turns out to be a great guy :D Will's sister, Cecily, was another great character I enjoyed getting to know. She comes to bring Will back to their parents but ends up falling in love with the Shadowhunter life. And although I felt that there was an age gap that wasn't really addressed, (Spoiler) she and Gabriel were sweet and cute together. Cecily has Will's spark and stubbornness and I enjoyed seeing them going head to head :D Charlotte and Henry are the greatest couple ever! Apart from a few others. Charlotte is so motherly and strong...she's a scary lady, for sure :D Henry is a sweet, smart and at many times oblivious guy. I really loved both of them.
Cover:It comes down to this and Clockwork Prince and I can't choose a favorite. I love them both. I love Tessa's dress, her angel there for everyone to see, the book and mystery as it glows...what could it be? And her hair is gorgeous. The background (the bridge, it's the bridge I can't breath it's the bridge!!) is beautiful and perfect too :D
Stars:There is no other number. Only 10 :D No seriously, five with all of my heart and many exclamation points next to it :D

Love, Sierra

P.S. Sorry if any part of that ^^ is confusing...I have so many feeling about this book, the main one being that it is awesome and everyone who likes this type of genre and such will love it.

Clockwork Prince

Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare. Book two in The Infernal Devices series.
Book description:In the magical underworld of Victorian London, Tessa Gray has at last found safety with the Shadowhunters. But that safety proves fleeting when rogue forces in the Clave plot to see her protector, Charlotte, replaced as head of the Institute. If Charlotte loses her position, Tessa will be out on the street—and easy prey for the mysterious Magister, who wants to use Tessa’s powers for his own dark ends.
With the help of the handsome, self-destructive Will and the fiercely devoted Jem, Tessa discovers that the Magister’s war on the Shadowhunters is deeply personal. He blames them for a long-ago tragedy that shattered his life. To unravel the secrets of the past, the trio journeys from mist-shrouded Yorkshire to a manor house that holds untold horrors, from the slums of London to an enchanted ballroom where Tessa discovers that the truth of her parentage is more sinister than she had imagined. When they encounter a clockwork demon bearing a warning for Will, they realize that the Magister himself knows their every move—and that one of their own has betrayed them.
Tessa finds her heart drawn more and more to Jem, though her longing for Will, despite his dark moods, continues to unsettle her. But something is changing in Will—the wall he has built around himself is crumbling. Could finding the Magister free Will from his secrets and give Tessa the answers about who she is and what she was born to do?
As their dangerous search for the Magister and the truth leads the friends into peril, Tessa learns that when love and lies are mixed, they can corrupt even the purest heart. (taken from Goodreads)


Objectionable:Language was 3, but only by 1 word. (only one word...) Kissing, making out on two occasions (the main one is Tessa & Jem in his room, some clothing is removed but it is stopped before much happens), demon pox caught from "relations" with demon women that a character also gave to his wife (she committed suicide), a hint of a gay character (one kiss for show). Injuries, fighting, sparring, paranormal creatures, drugs and addictions.

Thoughts:This series is on my top 10 forever favorites list. Because it's amazing. The author did such a great job!!! I'm going to try to contain my excitement. I just finished the final and third book and I'm still kinda torn and all emotional from it. I wanted to review this book first and I had just reread it. It made sense. So...this series was recommended to me after I had read most of the Mortal Instruments (that were out at the moment) by a friend. She said they were awesome and she was not wrong. I'm just sorry I didn't listen to her for several months. I finally read the first two and then I was dying for the third. The characters are beautiful and perfect, but I can get to that later. The main thing is this series is super exciting and brilliant. For me and other Christians. who may read secular stuff. you want to be careful and then there is the book that is good but might have some content that you weren't to crazy about. This series is actually pretty clean. Barely any language, the main thing (apart from some appearances by Downworlder creatures such as vampires and warlocks) in this series is the romance. There are maybe two scenes that I don't necessarily agree with, but they are still clean compared to other books I've read. Way clean. So this series is simply perfect in that way.

Plus it's set in the late 1800s with a slightly steampunk feel to the story. The characters are beautiful. The plot is very exciting. Tessa has escaped the Magister, for now. She still doesn't know why he wants her and exactly what she is! She is able to shape shift and appears to be a warlock, but she bears no warlock mark. She's torn up over Will being mean and not understanding him, even while she is drawn to him. However she is also enjoying the company of his parabatai, Jem, and very possibly falling in love with both of them. Meanwhile she and the others at the Institute are given 2 weeks to find the Magister, or else the Institute may have a new Shadowhunter heading it. The plot is beautiful. There are new surprises, great reveals and page turning excitement that I experienced even rereading it :D The ending is great and thrilling as well. I really think that just about anyone can enjoy this series, it's just so great!!! I would recommend to YA/14+ girls. Seriously, these characters and this story is one of THE BEST :D Overall, you should read this book and this series because it is amazing and I love it so very much and heartily recommend it!!!
Characters:If only I could just write a page or two on all the characters. In this series Tessa is really the main character but I can't help feeling that Will and Jem slip into the title of main character with her. The other "minor" characters really aren't that minor. There are several plot and story lines running through secondary characters such as the maid Sophie who I just love, she's strong, beautiful, sweet, and determined...just lacks confidence sometimes. There is also the Branwells who run the Institute. Little Charlotte who is strong and tough and a mother-er. Dear Henry who is so absentminded and brilliant. They have several lovely scenes in this book that I was looking forward to rereading :D The Lightwood boys were a bigger part of this story and I enjoyed getting to know them more. Will...he's so messed up and tortured and the whole curse thing and the big plot thing that comes out...so beautiful. And sad. And tormenting for him and for me because I love him. He's so funny, he's words and quoting and witty remarks had me smiling and laughing. Jem is so beautiful, he's so gentle and kind. He's like the biggest sweetheart and just amazing. He's actually kinda an angel. And his character is delved into more than in the first book. Tessa is a great main character that I like. She is probably one of my most favorite main character because I can relate to her in a lot of ways. For one thing she is a major bookworm and I got and loved so many of the references in this book! Adored them, really. She's also not exactly the bold type, but she can be bold when she wants to be. Snarky too. Basically, I loved every single one of the characters in  this book. Except the evil ones :P
Cover:It's Jem...so of course I love it!!!!!!!!!!! I love the background, his clothing, his cane...his hair. The colors. It's beautiful. A hard choice, but this or the cover for Clockwork Princess is my favorite of the series. I can't decide :P
Stars:5 (definitely, totally, all the way five...)

Love, Sierra

Orleans

Orleans by Sherri L. Smith.
Book description: First came the storms. Then came the Fever. And the Wall.
After a string of devastating hurricanes and a severe outbreak of Delta Fever, the Gulf Coast has been quarantined. Years later, residents of the Outer States are under the assumption that life in the Delta is all but extinct… but in reality, a new primitive society has been born.

Fen de la Guerre is living with the O-Positive blood tribe in the Delta when they are ambushed. Left with her tribe leader’s newborn, Fen is determined to get the baby to a better life over the wall before her blood becomes tainted. Fen meets Daniel, a scientist from the Outer States who has snuck into the Delta illegally. Brought together by chance, kept together by danger, Fen and Daniel navigate the wasteland of Orleans. In the end, they are each other’s last hope for survival.

Sherri L. Smith delivers an expertly crafted story about a fierce heroine whose powerful voice and firm determination will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page. (taken from Goodreads)

Objectionable:For language a 5(just it was spread out), some violence such as killing, taking of blood, rape, injuries, kidnapping, blood hunters hunting people for blood, death. Brief mention of a brothel, a girl getting pregnant and the assumption that Fen had Baby Girl.Some voodoo type stuff, there is a scene were a god apparently takes over the body of someone, child abuse.

Thoughts:I had been interested in this book, I saw it and thought "hmmm this one looks good!" While it might be classified as Middle Grade by some (possibly), this is really a YA book due to the content. The story is interesting, a girl taking care of Chieftain's baby. And trying to get it a better life. The whole idea of an area being blocked off from the rest of the US was interesting as well. The plot was pretty good as was the adventure led to getting Baby Girl to safety. While this wasn't an amazing book, I still liked it. A good adventure. But the ending was totally off and disappointing for me. It didn't resolve what I wanted it to and was kinda bland. :/ Oh well. I only heard about this book a couple days before it was released so there wasn't a ton of expectation. In the way of the world and descriptions it was good, but I wasn't a huge fan. Overall good, just a couple bumps. Really intriguing world and the characters (look below) were alright. I would recommend to YA+ guys and girls.
Characters:They were okay. Fen was a good character who wanted to serve her Chieftain and help her child have a better life. She was strong and determined. The other characters were all right but all but the other main character, Daniel, and Lydia, the Chieftain, none really stood out. Lydia I liked for the short time we got to meet her and Daniel was okay.
Cover:I really like it. Definitely a dystopian, sunken city feel that comes out quite a bit in the book. I like the birds in sky and the sun coming up in the distance. It's a nice cover :D
Stars:3

Love, Sierra

The Mirrored Shard

The Mirrored Shard by Caitlin Kitteredge. The third book in The Iron Codex series.

Book description:Aoife Grayson must face death to win back Dean—the love who was ripped from the Iron Lands of the living when he was shot in the arctic north. But getting to the Deadlands is something that Aoife can't do on her own. And if she can find a way there, Tremaine would surely never allow it. He has sworn to keep her in the Thorn Lands, the fairie home of her mother, Nerissa. But Aoife is determined to find her way out. And she has no trouble if that means she has to kill Tremain and his queen to do it. (taken from Goodreads)

Objectionable:4 for language, some violence like injuries, torturing and rumors of terrible things. Fey and otherworldly creatures, madness due to exposure to iron, magic and science mixing, visiting the Deadlands, and old beings with strange and unknown powers. A couple kisses. 

Thoughts:Almost every review I've read for this book has been the same. It was disappointing, they couldn't believe this was the same author and the same series that held The Iron Thorn. That book was amazing. The characters, the plot, the worlds, descriptions, the adventure and the steampunk/Victorian feel. It was a wonderful book. And I've almost convinced myself that it was the only book in this series. While the second book was okay I've forgot exactly what it held. It wasn't great. It wasn't as good as the first book (as is often the case in some series) and it was shorter. The only thing killer about the book was the cover and Dean. I can't even say that for this book. While they were the same characters and somewhat the same world, it felt very different. Aoife felt like a spoiled. petulant child that just wanted what she wanted, but then would feel guilty for what she brought on the world. Then she was determined to do something to fix it and even though she somewhat did it felt rather pathetic. 

While the story was interesting and the plot alright, there wasn't a zap and zing to it. The thing that pulled me in was gone. There were even several questions that were never really answered too (Why was Dean in the prison where the really bad dead were kept?)  and there were bumpy scenes that definitely could have been better. The ending was nice, it was happy and hopeful. Not one that I would have imagined for the series though. But who can really argue with a happy ending? There several things that didn't quite add up in the ending, it was almost like the author was ticking off the characters enemies and then tying up whatever needed to be tied up before moving on to the next thing. Overall, this was an ending to the series and not a totally bad one. There were flaws and anyone who had read the first book would be disappointed. But there are things I liked, revisiting the characters, going to new places, new threats (even if they did rather fall through in the end) and an adventure. I did enjoy reading about the Deadlands, but through the whole book my mind couldn't help going back to the first book and comparing. Personally I'm going to seclude the first book off by itself and consider that book the series. The following books didn't match it, although they were good in their own way. If you are going to try it, like I did, I would recommend to YA+ girls.
Characters: Like I said, Aoife felt really off and demanding and all mixed up. I had loved her in the first book and not now :/ Dean was hardly in this book, which was a real disappointment. The only character that was actually in the book that I liked was Cal. He's Aoife's friend who has always stuck by her. He's a little quirky, but Sweet.
Cover:I said that the cover was killer and I meant it. I really like the cover...the thorns or trees in the background, the brown color scheme, the jacket, her eyes and mouth contrasting. I really like it :) 
Stars:2

Love, Sierra 

Dualed

Dualed by Elsie Chapman. Dualed book one.

Book description:You or your Alt? Only one will survive. 
The city of Kersh is a safe haven, but the price of safety is high. Everyone has a genetic Alternate—a twin raised by another family—and citizens must prove their worth by eliminating their Alts before their twentieth birthday. Survival means advanced schooling, a good job, marriage—life.

Fifteen-year-old West Grayer has trained as a fighter, preparing for the day when her assignment arrives and she will have one month to hunt down and kill her Alt. But then a tragic misstep shakes West’s confidence. Stricken with grief and guilt, she’s no longer certain that she’s the best version of herself, the version worthy of a future. If she is to have any chance of winning, she must stop running not only from her Alt, but also from love . . . though both have the power to destroy her.

Elsie Chapman's suspenseful YA debut weaves unexpected romance into a novel full of fast-paced action and thought-provoking philosophy. When the story ends, discussions will begin about this future society where every adult is a murderer and every child knows there is another out there who just might be better. (taken from Goodreads)

Objectionable:Language was a 3 (just), there was a good deal of violence and killing because that is the way their world is. There are a couple kisses at the end and briefly West lies next to Chord in his bed. Basically the violence is killing, shooting, injuries and fighting.

Thoughts:I had read several reviews for Dualed and had become interested by the idea that you have a twin. At some point between the ages of 10 and 20 you will be "activated" and you or your Alt must try to kill each other. Only one of you can live. DNA from both parents are combined to make two people who look exactly alike. One deserves to live. Will that Alt be you? I was interested in the idea of someone coming after you with your face. And only one could win. It's creepy and cool at the same time. Personally I really enjoyed this book and thought the idea played out really well. The characters weren't as strong and the plot good but not great. However this was still a really good book. It was exciting, a great idea that will continue in the next book...which I'm definitely going to read. This was a great first book and I would recommend it to YA+ girls and guys who like kick-butt excitement, spy/assassin like characters, science fiction(ish) and slightly dystopian. Overall, this was a good book that could have been better, but really, it was a good book. I liked it  a lot :)
Characters: West was a great character. She was kick-butt, but at the same time would freeze up and would run away. She was vulnerable and loved her family. She had a dignity that she wanted to keep too, I think. I liked her. Chord was sweet and although his character wasn't deeply shown and delved into, his actions of tailing West and watching out for her show what a great guy he is :) There were two other side characters that I liked, but really there weren't many main-side characters. There were the ones you hated of course. And I did.
Cover:It gives you a glimpse of the world, old and run down but some what technologically advanced. And people carry weapons and play games that involve killing (fake deaths, but real sparring). I like the shadow as well and think it really fits the book :)
Stars:3.9 (I would reread, but I'd wait a long while and if I didn't have anything to read....this book was good and interesting, but not stellar, in my view.)

Love, Sierra

TBR Thursday

You know I really do try to do only one book per TBR post, but so many books keep coming out and I get behind :/ Oh well...

Sometimes the Truth Comes with a Price Nikki knew Damon Vessler would not let his prized creation go easily---she simply never imagined the lengths he'd go to get her back into his clutches, and turn Nikki's heart toward darkness. A Seeker at her heels, trained on her blood, Nikki flees with Raven alongside her for protection, while Mace and the other Halflings fight the battle that has erupted on earth. But even as the two boys she loves fight for her, she knows the battle will be hers to win. Determined to uncover the secrets of her past, and exactly how she fits into Vessler's twisted plans, Nikki sets off on her own, and soon discovers facing hellacious beasts is nothing compared to the decision she will need to make. One that could change not only the war, and her relationship with Mace and Raven, but her future with the Throne. (taken from Goodreads)

I'm interested in seeing where this series will go at the ending. The first two books were alright...I liked them okay, just not everything. I guess I just didn't connect that well :/ I do like the idea, some of the characters, and the books are exciting too. This or the first cover would be my favorite. And I do like the whole one color focus that the author used. This book was released March 19th.

 Danger and betrayal, secrets and enchantment in the breathtaking conclusion to the Infernal Devices trilogy

Tessa Gray should be happy - aren't all brides happy?
Yet as she prepares for her wedding, a net of shadows begins to tighten around the Shadowhunters of the London Institute.
A new demon appears, one linked by blood and secrecy to Mortmain, the man who plans to use his army of pitiless automatons, the Infernal Devices, to destroy the Shadowhunters. Mortmain needs only one last item to complete his plan. He needs Tessa. And Jem and Will, the boys who lay equal claim to Tessa's heart, will do anything to save her. (taken from Goodreads)

This book....I've been waiting soooo long. I've been dying to get it and devour it. I just picked it up from the library today and I'm soooooooo excited to start it! I'm dying to know what happens and I'm kinda scared to read it at the same time you know? Like I don't want anyone to die, but I want more Henry, Jem, Will, Tessa and everybody!!! And I adore the cover :) While I like the Mortal Instruments series this has been my favorite (from Cassandra Clare). This book was released March 19th.

( I'm not sure which one is the real cover...)
When Mallory’s boyfriend, Jeremy, cheats on her with an online girlfriend, Mallory decides the best way to de-Jeremy her life is to de-modernize things too. Inspired by a list of goals her grandmother made in1962, Mallory swears off technology and returns to a simpler time (when boyfriends couldn’t cheat with computer avatars). The List:
1. Run for pep club secretary
2. Host a fancy dinner party/soiree
3. Sew a dress for Homecoming
4. Find a steady
5. Do something dangerous
But simple proves to be crazy-complicated, and the details of the past begin to change Mallory’s present. Add in a too-busy grandmother, a sassy sister, and the cute pep-club president–who just happens to be her ex’s cousin–and soon Mallory begins to wonder if going vintage is going too far. (taken from Goodreads)

This is another one of those books I've been waiting for. I haven't been dying, but I've seriously been anticipating how much I'll enjoy this book.  I've read a couple other books by Lindsey Leavitt and I can't wait to read this. I think it's going to be good :) Cover wise, I like both...but the one on the right is my preference. This book will be released March 26th.

 The Exciting Conclusion to Lauraine Snelling's WILD WEST WIND Series
As winter settles over the ranch, the Engstrom brothers are much on the mind of Cassie Lockwood. The way Lucas smiles at her should set her heart to tripping. But it doesn't. Shouldn't there be some attraction to him if they are going to be married? His vow to make her love him does not seem to be working, no matter how considerate and charming he is.
Ransom Engstrom is another matter. After Cassie's train trip to a shooting competition, she realizes she misses Ransom more than Lucas. And then there's the look she caught Lucas sending Betsy Hudson at church one Sunday. Are she and Lucas drifting apart?
Meanwhile, Ransom has discovered that he cares for Cassie but can't bring himself to express his true feelings to her. When she leaves to join a Wild West show for the summer, will Ransom summon the courage to go after her? (taken from Goodreads)

Although the first book wasn't super amazing, the second was. I loved it! The characters, writing, plot, romance...everything was perfect. I cannot wait to find out what happens next and everything! Other than a teen/tween series this is the only series I've read from Lauraine Snelling...but after how much I loved this one I'm definitely going to try some of her other books :D And the cover? Soooo pretty! This book will be released April 1st.

Also check out: Bot wars, by J.V. Kade. Released March 21st.
And:Pheme The Gossip, by Joan Holub and  Suzanne Williams. Releases April 2nd.  
(I know their Middle Grade and all...but I'm often surprised by fun, interesting and sometimes even deep/complex Middle Grade books)

Love, Sierra

A Matter Of Trust

A Matter Of Trust by Lis Wiehl. 
A Mia Quinn Mystery. (book three I believe...)
Book description:When life is murder, who can you trust?
One minute Mia Quinn is in her basement, chatting on the phone with a colleague at the prosecutor’s office. The next minute there’s a gunshot over the line, and Mia listens in horror as her colleague and friend Colleen bleeds to death.

Mia’s a natural for heading up the murder investigation, but these days she has all she can do to hold her life together. As a new widow with a pile of debts, a troubled teenaged son, and a four-year-old who wakes up screaming at night, she needs more time with her family, not less—and working Colleen’s case will be especially demanding. But Colleen was her friend, and she needs to keep her job. So she reluctantly teams up with detective Charlie Carlson to investigate Colleen’s death. But the deeper they dig, the more complications unfold—even the unsettling possibility that someone may be coming after her.

Lis Wiehl’s signature plot twists and relatable characters shine in this absorbing series debut . . . with an intriguing cameo from her best-selling Triple Threat series.

Objectionable:Mention of terrible crimes (rape, murder and other such), bullying (cyber & physical) and also bullying because a boy was different and mean things were done and he was called gay. Murder, suicide, and killing. Shooting, stealing, some drinking, divorce, some other brief mentions of things like a former stripper, dating sites, accidents, secrets, smoking and other.

Thoughts:This is a thrilling mystery that kept me turning pages :) This book was like a detective or police show (whatever you call them) in the form of a book. Which I prefer actually *winks* I've read only one other book by the author, which I did like, but this one I liked better. I suppose the excitement levels were about the same, but I connected with this one more. Mia Quinn is on the phone with a fellow prosecutor and friend when her friend is shot. Her murder may be linked to a previous murder 4 years earlier. Mia takes the case while juggling financial and family troubles. And to add another item to her teetering platter, she is working with a police detective who is known for breaking rules and being reckless. He coast her a case at the beginning of her career. And now if she wants to find out who murdered her friend she will have to work with them him.

This book was really exciting and educational at the same time. I love a book where I can learn things, but it's still a great book. This was one of those. You get familiar with the job of a prosecutor and what goes on in their life. Or something close to the truth. This is not only a fun read, you can learn something from it! The whole prosecutor side is done very professionally and I could tell it had been researched (or lived, on the author bio I think it mentioned that the author had been a prosecutor...). The writing was very good as well, there were only a couple times where I found something a little "off". The mystery is great, I had no idea who was the killer. There are many twists and turns in this plot and this book is very exciting. I would recommend to YA+ (16?) readers as this is an adult (Christian) book and there are a couple things that would be disturbing to younger readers from the violence or to some of the brief content mentions. overall, this was a great book that I would be happy to reread again sometime. And I cannot wait for the next book in this series :D
Characters:I really liked Mia and I thought she was a good, strong character. She loved her family and struggled to make things work sometimes, but she always tried. She was also pretty smart!! Gabe, her son, was also a character that I liked and thought was very well written. He had some great scenes with Mia and they were going through the whole mother/teen conflict and was struggling with some of his own stuff. A character that we never get to meet but hear a lot about was a boy who was bullied and called gay. He sounded so sweet and like a great kid. He was one of the most touching characters. I liked Charlie and thought he was a little bit of a rogue...with a past that made him touchy. He's mysterious and I want to learn more about him. Overall I really liked all the characters in this book :D Mia was my favorite though.
Cover:I like the colors and the hair. I think it is really mysterious how she is hiding the gun :D  I really like it!
Stars:4

Love, Sierra

  I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and the views I've expressed are my own.

Shards & Ashes

Book description:Gripping original stories of dystopian worlds from nine New York Times bestselling authors, edited by Melissa Marr and Kelley Armstrong.

The world is gone, destroyed by human, ecological, or supernatural causes. Survivors dodge chemical warfare and cruel gods; they travel the reaches of space and inhabit underground caverns. Their enemies are disease, corrupt corporations, and one another; their resources are few, and their courage is tested.

Powerful original dystopian tales from nine bestselling authors offer bleak insight, prophetic visions, and precious glimmers of light among the shards and ashes of a ruined world.(taken from Goodreads)

Below are my notes and brief descriptions of each short story...I don't know if I'll begin to do this with all anthologies that I read, but it worked for this one. Please note that there are a lot of spoilers, practically in ever description...read at your own risk :P Overall I really enjoyed this book, so far of the four anthologies that I have read this was my favorite. There were many great, intriguing stories written by great authors :) I would recommend to YA+ girls.

Veronica Roth- In this world there are terrorists trying to bring about the apocalypse and there are Hearkeners. People who can hear either death or life songs. Darya is faced with the decision of death or life Hearkener. This was a really interesting idea. I liked it and thought it was happy and apocalyptic at the same time. I liked the description of the Hearkeners and the whole death and life music thing. Poetic and tragic.

Kelley Armstrong- Inside the fortress Rayne plots with her boyfriend, Braeden a werewolf from outside the fortress, to escape and join the Branded. The Branded are supernaturals who were discovered in a fortress, were branded and thrown out of the fortress. I got a medieval feeling in this story....possibly because of the whole fortress thing. It's pretty much just like a castle. I liked the underground supernaturals that become the turning point for the world and apocalypse. The characters made a cute couple, even amongst the killing and cannibalistic survivors outside. I thought that it was really well written and thrilling.

Margaret Stohl- When some one's life beads or their "necklace of raindrops" run out they are taken to be dropped off in the remains of the Southlands. Jai's brother jumped because he was an adventurer and reckless, using up his beads. Now she is the only one from her family left. But a boy named Z helps her to love/live a little. I liked the idea and the new world. The future world. I liked the ending, hot it wasn't sad and actually had hope. while some parts didn't make as much sense (there were polish or some sort of Asian language mixed in) I overall liked it alright and it was pretty sweet with a nice twist at the ending.

Rachel Caine- The Corporate runs everything in a business like world with sectors with letter titles. Zay/Xavier from level K is given lottery tickets to a Cup game. On the rain many kids are killed. He and several others are saved and become dogsbodys. They're like slave for Corporate he grows in the ranks for hopes of reaching high enough rank to kill the man who murdered on the train. This story actually had a Hunger Games feel to it, I thought. Castes too. I wish that they had kissed, but the ending was nice and I liked the main characters. And the whole business ruling the world idea was pretty cool. And scary at the same time.

Nancy Holder- Dana is approached by someone names Alex who has strange Powers and knows about the other side of her family. He seems to think she can help him. But hat they find in Germany is tied to not only the supernatural but also the causes of what plunged their world into chaos. I liked the idea...it just seemed a tiny bit rushed. And the some parts were a bit fuzzy. I did like the whole goblin/fey baby switch that was messed up because of human interference :P It seemed realistic. The powers were cool and tied into the ending nicely!

Melissa Marr- This story was about Harmony who goes out and kills Nidos, reptilian minions of the "god" Nidhogg. He grows stronger by people believing in him. Even to hate something you need to believe in them. So she and her dead sister's old partner Chris hunt the Nidos. Well in some ways this reminds me of the Enclave series...mainly because of the monsters. In other ways it reminds me of something else with monsters that I can't put my finger on. The whole couple thing was sweet...I thought the world was believable. Definitely gruesome and creepy!

Kami Garcia- he world is too hot to live in and people were underground for 20 years! Now, in a sort of safe Dome, Phoenix tries to find and rescue her sister from The Abyss (underground) when she is kidnapped by Skinners who skin children and take other things to sell them to the rich who need skin grafts.  In some ways I'm reminded of Breathe(Sarah Crossan)...only dirtier. This is a world that I would like to read more about. Will they ever go back outside after all that heat and burning? I liked the kidnapping and sacrifice ending :)

Beth Revis- Orion has just been almost killed by Eldest and is hiding out. He takes refuge in the recorder hall with the newest recorder Mag. As he begins to plan a rebellion of sorts. Ahhh! An installation short story to the Across The Universe series! :) I was pretty happy and excited to hear a story from Orion's point of view and learn more about the "before" the series. The world and Godspeed I loved, of course! And I felt a little more sympathetic to Orion after reading this short story. Only a little though.

Carrie Ryan- Frankie is caring for her sick sister after their mother is taken away because she had gotten the plague. Now she is working her mother's job at a rich person's home filled with beautiful flowers that keep away the scent of the plague. She needs money to bribe the plague doctors with their plague eaters. And she meets a boy. Kinda. I liked this one. For some reason I got  a bit of a Poison Princess and something else feel from this story. Possibly a bayou feel because of the swamp in this story? I liked the whole flower elements and the plague doctors with their plague eating ferrets in this story.

Objectionable:3 for language. Also mentions of sex, drinking and smoking. Gruesome things, killing, death and magic. Supernatural creatures, fey and drugs (phydus). 

Cover:I loved it. It's beautiful and creepy at the same time. And I'm loving the trampled snow, some sort of sun activity in the background and the white, flowing hair.

Stars:4

Love, Sierra
(sorry for the long review)

Between Shades of Gray

 Between Shades of gray by Rua Septys.
Book description:Lina is just like any other fifteen-year-old Lithuanian girl in 1941. She paints, she draws, she gets crushes on boys. Until one night when Soviet officers barge into her home, tearing her family from the comfortable life they've known. Separated from her father, forced onto a crowded and dirty train car, Lina, her mother, and her young brother slowly make their way north, crossing the Arctic Circle, to a work camp in the coldest reaches of Siberia. Here they are forced, under Stalin's orders, to dig for beets and fight for their lives under the cruelest of conditions.

Lina finds solace in her art, meticulously--and at great risk--documenting events by drawing, hoping these messages will make their way to her father's prison camp to let him know they are still alive. It is a long and harrowing journey, spanning years and covering 6,500 miles, but it is through incredible strength, love, and hope that Lina ultimately survives. Between Shades of Gray is a novel that will steal your breath and capture your heart. (taken from Goodreads)

Objectionable:2.5 language? A couples kisses, to save her son's life a character worked as a prostitute among the soldiers, mention of being so skinny and ill fed that Lina didn't have her period, a man asks the soldier did it to Lina and her mom, 2 bath scenes where the women strip in front of the soldiers and bath. Drinking, smoking, stealing, abuse in way of words and lack of food + hard labor. death, shooting, killing, hitting.


Thoughts:Wow. I knew the basics of World War 2, Hitler and bombings. Pearl Harbor. The usual. It was terrible, Hitler hated jews and other people who weren't his picture of perfect. It was a terrible, terrible time. But while I knew all that and had read several historical fiction books set in the war I didn't know it like this book told it. Wow. There aren't many words that can completely sum up this book. Eye opening. Astounding. Beautifully tragic.The tale follows Lina as her entire family is arrested and taken away from their home and life. All because they aided their family members in getting out of Lithuania. And that could be counted as rebellion. Stalin's men were rounding up anyone who had even hinted being against them. And they are shipped (yeah the people) to Siberia. Forced to do hard labor without much food, separated from their family members sometimes and treated badly. This isn't exactly a rainbows and sunshine book. But it's brilliant.  The author did a great job of telling this haunting story of Lina and her family.

The writing is great, the characters and side line stories were well done. But the whole experience of the entire book is what really strikes me. When I put down this book I went wow. Remembering it I go wow. For teens and adults this is a great book. I hadn't heard of Stalin before (well maybe once, but not really) and I learned about him and so much more in this book! That time was so terrible...and there are still things that haven't been told yet. The author went and talked to survivors from Lithuania and used some of their stories in this book. So it isn't completely a work of fiction. Parts are TRUE. So this book is scary beautiful and is really shocking. But all in a good way. I would recommend this book highly, it's exciting and informative. I'm only sad that I wasn't able to go to a meet & greet with the author when she was in the area :(  However this book is aimed more for older teens and adults, there is some content and horrible things that happen to the characters.
Cover:This is the cover that I read the book with. There is another one on Goodreads that I hadn't seen. It's got like a shoot amongst snow with barbed wire surrounding it on the sides. I personally like this one better. Although apart from the snow it doesn't exactly relate to the story. But it works.
Stars:5

Love, Sierra

Bitterblue

Bitterblue by Kristin Cashore. Third book in Graceling series. And in case you cannot read the cover, Bitterblue is also the sequel to Graceling (first book) and companion to Fire (second book).
Book description:Eight years after Graceling, Bitterblue is now queen of Monsea. But the influence of her father, a violent psychopath with mind-altering abilities, lives on. Her advisors, who have run things since Leck died, believe in a forward-thinking plan: Pardon all who committed terrible acts under Leck's reign, and forget anything bad ever happened. But when Bitterblue begins sneaking outside the castle--disguised and alone--to walk the streets of her own city, she starts realizing that the kingdom has been under the thirty-five-year spell of a madman, and the only way to move forward is to revisit the past.

Two thieves, who only steal what has already been stolen, change her life forever. They hold a key to the truth of Leck's reign. And one of them, with an extreme skill called a Grace that he hasn't yet identified, holds a key to her heart. (taken from Goodreads)


Objectionable:Bitterblue sleeps with Saf, mention of other characters sleeping together, Bitterblue has some fascination with Saf's body after (nothing really "shown"), gay characters briefly mentioned, Graces (powers and skills), monsters, sadistic torturing (past), several attacks, injuries, death, and some language. I'm not sure how much because I was recording it differently back when I read this book so I can't say for sure. I know it had at least in between a 1 or 2 though.


Thoughts:First off I liked Graceling tons. It was very well written and I felt like I could see what was happening really well. It was exciting and really good apart from a sex scene :/ Fire wasn't as good or I didn't connect with it as much. It was interesting though. Both books had great plots and were very exciting. So I wasn't sure what Bitterblue would be like. Fire is set in another world and kinda before Graceling, if I remember correctly. So I was interested in getting back to Graceling's world. So I get Bitterblue and read it. 563 pages. Big book. With a very exciting and thrilling plot that had me staying up late to finish the book because I had to know what would happen! The excitement was there but not as much as the other books. The plot was more mysterious and it drew you in. Very complex too.

However despite how engaging the plot was the book felt dark. Possibly because of the evil deeds Leck had done. Possibly because it was a little depressing. Either way there was something that kept me from connecting and loving it. The romance was alright and wasn't a main part of the story. The characters were alright and I liked several of them. And then the whole tying in with what happened in Fire and Graceling happened at the end was beautiful...I really liked that. Overall I mainly enjoyed the plot and discovering how it all tied together. The rest not so much :/ It was an okay book and definitely and interesting one. I probably liked this one second best after Graceling. I would recommend to 15+ girls who enjoy fantasy.
Characters:There were several characters that stood out to me. Like Teddy, Po, Katsa, the librarian and I think a maid/spy. I wouldn't say that Bitterblue was my favorite although I did like her. Overall I think that the characters were done nicely and there were some that were done very well.
Cover:The keys do come up and I like the blue shades :)
Stars:3

Love, Sierra

Chasing Jupiter

Chasing Jupiter by Rachel Coker. 
Visit her blog here. Buy or check out the book on amazon.
 And here's a link to Rachel answering some questions about Chasing Jupiter.

Book description:Scarlett Blaine’s life in 1960s Georgia isn’t always easy, especially given her parents’ financial struggles and the fights surrounding her sister Juli’s hippie lifestyle. Then there’s her brother, Cliff. While Scarlett loves him more than anything, there’s no denying his unique behavior leaves Cliff misunderstood and left out. So when he wishes for a rocket to Jupiter, Scarlett agrees to make it happen, no matter how crazy the idea might be. Raising the rocket money means baking pies, and the farmer’s son, Frank, agrees to provide the peaches if Scarlett will help him talk to Juli. The problem is, Scarlett really enjoys her time with Frank, and finds herself wondering if, someday, they could be more than friends. Just as she thinks everything might be going her way, Cliff suffers an accident that not only affects the rocket plans, but shakes Scarlett’s view of God. As the summer comes to an end, Scarlett must find a way to regain what she’s lost, but also fulfill a promise to launch her brother’s dream.


Objectionable:Some injuries, a bad fall, yelling/arguments, running away from home, liking/loving someone, kinda stealing, possibly a mention of smoking.


 Thoughts:Nicely done Rachel! Although it was shorter than Interrupted, Chasing Jupiter was just as lovely and enjoyable as Rachel's first book. In my opinion this was a sweet book that really touched me. It's a story about a girl who will do anything to help her younger "misunderstood" (and at that time undiagnosed autistic) brother Cliff. Both of Rachel's book were well written for someone her age, which I don't mean in any negative way, really. She is young and in several parts slight flaws can be found, but really she is a great writer who is only getting better! The main flaw that I found in this book was that the epilogue was a bit rushed and felt it.


But moving past the slightly not so great to the great. I really enjoyed this book. You get a warm, yes Georgia southern feel to this book that my friend mentioned reminded her of the movie/book "The Help" Some scenes, like Scarlett visiting Ms. Greene did have a "Help" feel to them. One of my favorite scenes was with Ms.Greene...the hilarious chicken scene :D Another scene that was simply tragic, beautiful and poignant is when Scarlett and Frank finish the rocket and show Cliff. I was crying in that scene. Not only is this  a wonderful story about family, it is also a love story, a southern story and one with a lighthearted character who is trying to figure out where she belongs and how she can make everything turn out right. Maybe it's the size of the book or the fact that it is set in the south, but I also got a Joan Bauer feel from this book (I've only read 3 of Ms.Bauer's books however). I would recommend to girls 12+ who are looking for a sweet southern story that might just make you cry.
Characters: I really liked Cliff he was sweet and cute. The things he said made me smile :) Scarlett was maybe a bit of everybody in her search for finding the right way. The one way she could make everything come together. I really liked how she came through for her family but still was shown crying and asking for help because of  how she felt they were being torn apart. Frank was a good character, even though he should have realized some thing sooner...  Speaking of characters, check out this post Rachel did about who she would cast for the characters if Chasing Jupiter was turned into a movie!
Cover:I really like it and the colors are perfect! What with the peaches being a big part of the story, the orange and creamy orange shades are a nice touch.
Stars:4.5 

And here is a video of Rachel talking about Chasing Jupiter and where she got the idea :)
 

 Make sure you check out the other stops on the tour as well!

ADD Librarian • Becoming More Like You • Book Nook 4 You • Blooming with Books • Bookworm Reading  • Christian Book Review Blog • CTF Devourer • Gillian Adams • Jill Williamson • Labor Not in Vain • My Story Shelf • Rachelle Rea • The Ramblings of a Young Author • A Slightly Nerdy Bookworm • Shadow Writer World • Surrendering All of Me • Worthy2Read

Thanks to Team Novel Teen for sending me a copy :D

Team Novel Teen is a group of bloggers dedicated to spreading the word about clean teen fiction. Check out other posts about Chasing Jupiter by Rachel Coker by clicking on the links above, and click here for more information about Team Novel Teen.

Shades Of Earth

Shades of Earth by Beth Revis. Third book in the Across The Universe series.

Book description: Amy and Elder have finally left the oppressive walls of the spaceship Godspeed behind. They're ready to start life afresh--to build a home--on Centauri-Earth, the planet that Amy has traveled 25 trillion miles across the universe to experience.

But this new Earth isn't the paradise Amy had been hoping for. There are giant pterodactyl-like birds, purple flowers with mind-numbing toxins, and mysterious, unexplained ruins that hold more secrets than their stone walls first let on. The biggest secret of all? Godspeed's former passengers aren't alone on this planet. And if they're going to stay, they'll have to fight.

Amy and Elder must race to discover who--or what--else is out there if they are to have any hope of saving their struggling colony and building a future together. They will have to look inward to the very core of what makes them human on this, their most harrowing journey yet. Because if the colony collapses? Then everything they have sacrificed--friends, family, life on Earth--will have been for nothing.
FUELED BY LIES. RULED BY CHAOS. ALMOST HOME. (taken from Goodreads)


Objectionable:Gruesome deaths, battles, injuries, drugs and the use of them, lies, Elder and Amy sleep together but the scene ends before anything is "shown" to the reader. Language was a 3.

Thoughts:Wow. This was amazing! I was, of course, excited to see what Centauri-Earth would look like. What kind of aliens would live on it. What would happen and the adventures to be found on it etc. I didn't know, really, what to expect. So I just expected to like it or love it. Because this happens to be a really great author. And it was love. The plot was frexing brilly and so interesting! There were many thrilling twists and turns. Never a dull moment and I finished this book pretty quickly :P  The ending was perfect and I felt really satisfied. for anyone who has read SOE, the whole no chapters from a certain someone? Totally knew it was just Ms.Beth playing with us. She wouldn't be totally evil with her killing :P Her character deaths (that any fan should know about) were great :) There were some surprising, sad and gruesome ones :D

Overall this was one brilly book, the best of the series in my view. It felt like with this series each book was better than the last. This is one of my favorite series :) While there are some things I don't' agree with, but the plot and mystery really makes up for it. The whole drug (Phydus?) thing that kept coming back around in each book was beautifully done. Basically if you want a series with great plot lines and exciting reveals this is your series. I would recommend to YA+ girls who enjoy science fiction, romance and some adventure :) Although with the deaths and stuff guys might like it too.
Characters:I liked Elder and his loyalty to his people.(spoiler >>) It was interesting to see him out of the leader role again, only this time with the Earth people and Amy's dad taking over instead of others on Godspeed. I also really liked meeting Amy's parents. However Amy was my favorite character. She was strong and determined to get to the bottom of what was happening. And she was kinda on both sides of the group and sticking up for Elder when her dad put him down :) I also liked an army lady who was second in command...Elizabeth? E something? :P She was a strong character and seemed really nice :) I thought that the characters were well done...especially when some got killed pretty quickly :P
Cover:I'm curious about what the this cover would look like in the first designs. I really want to know :) I still like the green and plants though.
Stars:5

Love, Sierra

TBR Thursday:Requiem & Poison

They have tried to squeeze us out, to stamp us into the past. But we are still here. And there are more of us every day.
Now an active member of the resistance, Lena has been transformed. The nascent rebellion that was under way in Pandemonium has ignited into an all-out revolution in Requiem, and Lena is at the center of the fight.
After rescuing Julian from a death sentence, Lena and her friends fled to the Wilds. But the Wilds are no longer a safe haven—pockets of rebellion have opened throughout the country, and the government cannot deny the existence of Invalids. Regulators now infiltrate the borderlands to stamp out the rebels, and as Lena navigates the increasingly dangerous terrain, her best friend, Hana, lives a safe, loveless life in Portland as the fiancée of the young mayor.
Maybe we are driven crazy by our feelings.
Maybe love is a disease, and we would be better off without it.
But we have chosen a different road.
And in the end, that is the point of escaping the cure: We are free to choose. We are even free to choose the wrong thing. Requiem is told from both Lena’s and Hana’s points of view. The two girls live side by side in a world that divides them until, at last, their stories converge. (taken from Goodreads)

Delirium was good. Pandemonium was great. And I'm dying for Requiem. They've already started shipping them out at my library, after just two days (it was released the 5th) and I cannot wait to get my copy...hopefully next week. I've gotten Pandemonium to reread and I'm practically bouncing to read this book!  This series is set in a great and exciting dystopian world that is really well done. In Pandemonium the rebel side is really blooming and there is an incredible, tragic, heartbreaking cliffhanger. Team Alex. Just saying. Either way this book had better get to me soon :D (also really excited about the tv series Fox is making! I think it's Fox anyway. Pretty sure)

Sixteen-year-old Kyra, a highly-skilled potions master, is the only one who knows her kingdom is on the verge of destruction—which means she’s the only one who can save it. Faced with no other choice, Kyra decides to do what she does best: poison the kingdom’s future ruler, who also happens to be her former best friend.
But, for the first time ever, her poisoned dart . . . misses.
Now a fugitive instead of a hero, Kyra is caught in a game of hide-and-seek with the king’s army and her potioner ex-boyfriend, Hal. At least she’s not alone. She’s armed with her vital potions, a too-cute pig, and Fred, the charming adventurer she can’t stop thinking about. Kyra is determined to get herself a second chance (at murder), but will she be able to find and defeat the princess before Hal and the army find her?
Kyra is not your typical murderer, and she’s certainly no damsel-in-distress—she’s the lovable and quick-witted hero of this romantic novel that has all the right ingredients to make teen girls swoon. (taken from Goodreads)

This book has a cool cover and an enticing description. The whole poison and attempted murder thing drew me in the most. Although in some ways it sounds more like a high school themed book only in a medieval setting with an assassination mixed in. But still I want to try this book out. This book will be released March 12th. (totally just saw and got freaked out by the pig head :P)


Also check out:
Orleans by Sherri L. Smith. Released today. Middle school & dystopian/survival/apocalyptic.
The Menagerie by Tui. T Sutherland & Kari Sutherland.  March 12th. Middle Grade & fantasy.

 Love, Sierra

TBR Tuesday:Grave Consequences & Infatuate

For Cora Kensington, the journey of a lifetime takes unexpected twists. And her future—her very life—depends on the decisions she’ll make at each crossroad. As her European tour with her newfound family takes her through Austria, France, and Italy, an unseen enemy trails close behind. Meanwhile, a forbidden love continues to claim her heart, putting everyone’s plans in danger. And as Cora stays one step ahead of it all, what might need the most protection is her own heart, torn between the dramatic pursuit of a dashing Frenchman and a man who has been quietly staking claim to her affections all along. Love has dangers all its own. She must escape the bonds of the past and discover the faith to make the right choices, as each one has grave consequences. (taken from Goodreads)

I read the first book in this series and enjoyed the time period, characters and, as the series is based around the characters going on a Grand Tour, the different places they visit. Although exciting enough the first book wasn't extremely action packed but made up for it in writing and scenery, in my opinion. I'm looking forward to seeing what awaits in the second book, judging from the cover I would say there is a bit more excitement coming :D This book was released March 1st.



Haven Terra is still recovering from an internship that brought her literally to the brink of hell when a trip to New Orleans leads to more trouble. Graduating early from high school leaves the spring semester free, so Haven and her friends Dante and Lance head to the Big Easy to volunteer with community service projects. But their true mission becomes clear when they run across an enclave of devils known as the Krewe. New Orleans is a free-for-all for these shape-shifting devils, who are more reckless and vicious than any Haven, Lance, and Dante have encountered. And they soon discover their French Quarter housemates are also angels-in-training, and together they must face off with the Krewe in their quest for wings. But Haven’s resolve is tested when Lucian, the repentant devil with whom she was infatuated, resurfaces and asks her for help escaping the underworld. Can he be trusted? Or will aiding him cost Haven her angel wings—and her life? Thrilling, romantic, and full of surprises, this gripping sequel to Illuminate takes the battle of good and evil to the next level. (taken from Goodreads)

Although I'm not crazy about the whole hell and devil parts I really did enjoy the first book. I thought that had a nice plot and the author a very nice writing style. It was a charming book even if I did not agree with some things in it. I am definitely interested to see where this second book will be going plot wise and also about the setting! New Orleans is a very interesting place :) This book was released today, March 5th.

Love, Sierra

Scarlet

Scarlet by Marissa Meyer. Second book in the Lunar Chronicles series.
Book description: This is not the fairytale you remember.

But it’s one you won’t forget.

Cinder, the cyborg mechanic, returns in the second thrilling installment of the bestselling Lunar Chronicles. She's trying to break out of prison—even though if she succeeds, she'll be the Commonwealth's most wanted fugitive.

Halfway around the world, Scarlet Benoit's grandmother is missing. It turns out there are many things Scarlet doesn't know about her grandmother or the grave danger she has lived in her whole life. When Scarlet encounters Wolf, a street fighter who may have information as to her grandmother's whereabouts, she is loath to trust this stranger, but is inexplicably drawn to him, and he to her. As Scarlet and Wolf unravel one mystery, they encounter another when they meet Cinder. Now, all of them must stay one step ahead of the vicious Lunar Queen Levana, who will do anything for the handsome Prince Kai to become her husband, her king, her prisoner. (taken from Goodreads)

Objectionable:A couple kisses, attraction, hint of Grandparents not being married, escaping prison, magic of sorts, stealing, manipulation. Torture, kidnapping, attacks where many are killed, injuries, fights and cage/street fights. Language was a 1.

Thoughts:So here we have the much anticipated sequel to Marissa Meyer's thrilling debut, Cinder. Did it live up to the expectations, was it even better than Cinder? Yes it was great. I'm not sure how it compares to Cinder...one is probably winning by a nose but I'm not sure who/which. They are both great books! Did Scarlet carry on the story, the excitement and the plot well? Yes, it was beautifully done. The story and mystery of the Princess, the Lunars and now Scarlet's Grandma was very interesting. Although some things are easy to guess others did surprise me. The addition of Wolf was a great one and I felt he and Scarlet fit right into the story. A story that is getting more exciting and complicated by the book :P

This is such a unique series! It's a mix of fantasy, romance, science fiction, supernatural/paranormal (werewolf type creatures in Scarlet) and retelling/fairy tale all twisted into one great adventure.  This is truly a great series that I would definitely recommend. Overall I really enjoyed this book and I cannot wait for the next one, releasing next spring :) I would recommend to YA+ girls. (although I suppose some guys might like it as well. I didn't think he would but my dad really liked Cinder!)
Characters:I loved Scarlet. She was loyal to her family (the ones that counted) and was determined to do whatever it took to find her Grandmother. She was brave and kick butt but still had a tender side. Scarlet, Kai, Cinder or Wolf was my favorite character. There were some great ones so it's hard to choose :) kai of course is sweet and responsible. Cinder is the star of the story kinda and is beating unthinkable odds and opposition. Wolf is a mystery but becomes a really sweet guy who needs a little help. Plus the werewolfy thing is just kinda cool when it's not used for evil.  I did also like Iko. But not Caswell Thorne. He just wasn't that attractive as a character or a "bad boy" and was kinda a jerk. And to those who say (because I saw one review that did) that Caswell is like Han Solo? No way. Han is way nicer, sweeter and rogue-like. Caswell's addition was probably the only thing that I didn't like about this book.
Cover:It's nice. I like the hair+cape+mist combination. And the fonts are good. I'm excited to see what Cress's cover will look like now :D
Stars:5

Love, Sierra