Sarah J. Maas : A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES

Warning!! Even if you are not a fan of fantasy adventures, you won't be able to help but to fall in love with this story.

A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES is a first part of a brand new book series written by one of my personal favourite authors in the Fantasy YA genre - Sarah J. Maas.


Firstly, let me tell you a secret! Well, it isn't a proper secret, you can share it with anyone. Actually, I encourage you to do so. I think that Sarah J. Maas is the 'Queen of Fantasy YA'.  She captured my heart completely with her Throne Of Glass series. I wasn't expecting to fall in love with this gift of literature so much, but I did! Now, every year I count down the days till a new book comes out! Another reason why autumn is my favourite season!


So, when I heard that she is releasing a brand new novel, of course I had to have it. Pre-ordered, I have been patiently waiting until May for this new adventure to find its way onto the book shelves. I was expecting great things, but at the same time I have been worried.. I was scared that this new story won't be able to match the success of Throne Of Glass series... But what I wasn't expecting, was to fall in love even more deeply... There are books which you just cannot help, but love. And this one is one of them. It puts a spell / curse on you (pun intended) ! A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES will become a permanent member of your library.

*****

Feyre is a huntress. She thinks nothing of slaughtering a wolf to capture its prey. But, like all mortals, she fears what lingers mercilessly beyond the forest. And she will learn that taking the life of a magical creature comes at a high price... Imprisoned in an enchanted court in her enemy's kingdom, Feyre is free to roam but forbidden to escape. Her captor's body bears the scars of fighting, and his face is always masked - but his piercing stare draws her ever closer. As Feyre's feelings for Tamlin begin to burn through every warning she's been told about his kind, an ancient, wicked shadow grows.

*****

Firstly, let me talk about the beautiful edition this story is wrapped in. Paperback. 416 pages divided into 46 amazing chapters. The cover captures Feyre on the bright red background. It's such a powerful and mesmerising design. You won't be able to miss the book in your favourite book shop. And you won't want to miss out on this book. I promise you that!!


The writing.. Wow !! It always amazes me how much thought and imagination goes into writing a fantasy novel! Especially, when it comes to Ms Maas. Her writing is so creative, heart-warming, adventurous, thrilling... It's packed with twists which leaves you with your mouth wide opened. I have been literally hanging on every single word.. I just couldn't stop myself. I had to read more and more. I had to find out what will happen next.

The story itself is so captivating. It literately took my breath away. I was entranced with the wonderful story about love so strong that can survive even the hardest of challenges. What a beautiful enchanting adventure!! This wonderful piece of written word made me feel so many different emotions. I laughed and giggled like school girl. I cried like a baby. I got my heart shattered into million pieces. I was filled with anger at characters and their behaviour. I shouted out when something went wrong. I was absolutely mesmerised! 


This fast paced story just took over my heart and every fibre of my being. It took over my life for three wonderful days and I don't regret a minute of it. When I thought it couldn't get any better, another twist surprised me. I was absolutely consumed with with it. Every single page, every single chapter was an absolute perfection.

The characters and their ever-developing relationships were just wonderful. You couldn't help but to fall in love with them. They just got into your heart, grabbed it and wouldn't let go.

• Feyre. A human girl who does anything in her power to secure her family's survival. She has been looking after from a young age and they have took the advantage of her! She is strong .....and beautiful inside and out. She is fearless. She loves with all her heart and goes to extreme lengths to prove her love for Tamlin!! 

• Tamlin. Boy crush alert !! The High Lord of the Spring. A warrior with shape-shifting ability. He is powerful, magical but has a heart. He is compassionate, but strong. He wants to protect everyone in his court, everyone he loves. He has been punished and cursed but he doesn't give up without a fight. And he falls in love with this human girl and gives her his whole heart. 

• Lucien. High Fea. Tamlin's best friend. He is a warrior which strong morals. He can give you a hard time, but once you win him over, he goes to extreme lengths to help you out when you need. 

• Rhysand. At first I loathed him, later on I learnt to tolerate him. I don't trust him. He is a great manipulator who isn't afraid to strike a bargain to achieve his goals. He knows how to play the game . There are many fans of this novel who are crushing on Rhys but I am not one of them. There is just something about him I cannot stand. 

• Alis. A servant and a friend. She has been through a lot - lost her beloved sister. Now she is looking after her two nephews. One this I admire about her that she doesn't lie to Feyre ! No matter how awful the truth is, she is always truthful with her ! 

• Nesta. Feyre's eldest sister and a character who managed to surprised me the most . At the beginning you think of her as horrible human being. Selfish. Always angry. Ungrateful. But as we learn later on, she is a strong young woman who truly cares and loves her sisters. I think she would be a great companion for Lucien, so I hope to see more of her in the upcoming books. 

I am a huge admirer of the relationships between the characters and their constant development. I adore the friendship and always present bickering between Lucien & Feyre. I respect Feyre's bond and common understanding with Rhys. But I absolutely adore the beautiful relationship between Feyre & Tamlin. The readers often compare this story to The Beauty & The Beast. The mutual hatred at the beginning. Slow building of trust. Admiration. Attraction. Finding common grounds. Discovering deep feelings! True Love!! It's absolutely beautiful and wonderful to witness the slow but continuously growing love between these two. It's an honour and an absolutely pleasure to read their love story ! 

And this brings me to the one and only thing I do not like about the development in this book! There are hints, small sings of a possible love triangle between Feyre, Tamlin & Rhys! And I have to be honest, I absolutely hate the idea! There so many other YA novels which include this element and it's getting pretty boring! I would hate if Ms Maas would jump in a wagon and headed to this direction! I think the story of Tamlin & Feyre's love is so powerful that it doesn't needs a love triangle! Yes, put their love through trials and tests. Personally I think Tamlin should now prove his love for Feyre, but I don't think it should be done by competing for her love with Rhys. When the author first introduce this possibility of this happening with the introduction of the bond between Rhys & Feyre, I actually screamed and got very, very angry! And I now pray that the author will change her mind and cut out this idea. I think if this would happen, it would actually damaged the story itself! The beautiful tale we have grown to love would lose its charm and magic !! 

But otherwise.. I truly, deeply and unconditionally fell in love with this beautiful piece of literature! You know that there is a greatness to be expected when the book has a map in it. All the great Fantasy Book series have a map and this one is no exception .. 

So thank you Sarah J. Maas for taking the time and creating the fantastic world of Fae, Faeries, strong human characters... It's an absolute pleasure to spend my time in the world of your imagination and I cannot wait to read more. May 2016 just cannot come soon enough ! 

A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES is one of my favourite books I have ever read and it has given another proof why Fantasy YA genre is becoming my favourite to read!! Ms Maas you are a true queen of it! 


Follow Sarah J. Maas on Twitter @SJMaas or visit her website http://sarahjmaas.com .

Jenny Han : P.S. I STILL LOVE YOU

Warning! Prepare yourself for so many feels! I finished a full jar of Nutella whilst reading this book.

P.S. I STILL LOVE YOU is a sequel to one of my favourite books I have read this year - TO ALL THE BOYS I'VE LOVED BEFORE - written by the gorgeous and very talented, Jenny Han.


I cannot even begin to start to describe the joy of finally owing and reading this book. Ever since reading To All The Boys I've Loved Before, I was too excited to read the sequel. I had it pre-ordered the minute I finished the first book. I was literally counting down the days till it is published. And then May 26th arrived and found the most amazing package in my mailbox - the brand new sparkling edition of P.S. I STILL LOVE YOU. I literally danced the happy dance around my living room!!!

So me and the always lovely Sara from Carpe Librum Girl* have decided to pick this very much anticipated book for our 'Buddy Read'. We both adore Jenny Han and her writing.

*****

Lara Jean didn't expect to really fall for Peter. She and Peter were just pretending. Expect suddenly they weren't. Now Lara Jean is more confused than ever. When another boy from her past returns to her life, Lara Jean's feelings for him return too. Can a girl be in love with two boys at once? 

*****

Let's talk about the edition of the book first. Since I love this book so so much, I own the paperback and the hardback edition too. They are both such beautiful editions. On each of them is a picture of Lara Jean sitting in the window bay. The pictures are slightly different, but they are both very retro and beautiful. The design of the sequel compliments the first book and its both editions (paperback & hardback) wonderfully. 337 pages. 56 chapters. I absolutely adore both of the editions.

The writing. Oh how lovely is to be back in the world of Jenny Han and her writing. It's modern. Romantic. Intelligent. Emotional. It makes you feel so many feelings whilst reading it. A whole spectrum. It's engaging. And so, so relate able. You will not be able to put the book down. I promise you! I wasn't able to that myself. It took me a day to go through it. I was reading it so fast like my life would depend on it. I just wanted to find out what will happen next...


The story starts exactly where it left off. Lara Jean realises that she really likes Peter and writes him her first proper love letter. And them two decide to give their relationship a true go. But not all is rainbows and unicorns. Love isn't an easy, one way road to happiness. There are hiccups on the road. Challenges which make sure that your love is true. Love is never easy, but maybe that's the part of what makes it amazing.

This story wonderfully describes falling in love for very first time. The feelings.. The angst.. Especially if you aren't the first one for him. Lara Jean isn't Peter's first love. But he is hers. He has history with Gen and Gen keeps meddling in their relationship. And Lara Jean becomes insecure. When she needs to feel the security, Peter isn't there. Someone else is. Someone else keeps reminding her how special she is. Will Peter start fighting for his and Lara Jean's relationship before it is too late? Or will Lara Jean's first end up in vain?


I cannot describe how amazing is Jenny Han's story-telling. She manages to capture the humans true feelings in such a wonderful way that you can relive them time and time again. She makes you think of your first love... of your first kiss... of being insecure and new to being in love. And that is were a true writing talent lies... You know when you read a good book when you catch yourself laughing out loud... Crying as hard as you can.. Sobbing like a baby. Words have the power to do that. And Jenny Han has the magical ability to do that. She is a wizard of literature!!!

I have to mentioned how much I adore Kitty in this story. She has been my favourite character from the start. But time and time again.... Reading deeper into the story.. I love her even more. She is on verge of becoming a great, sensitive, but very smart woman. But she is still Kitty at the same time. She kind of reminds me Agnes from Despicable Me films. Actually all the character in this book are so loveable. You cannot help but like them. Even Genevieve. I think the truth is that you admire them even more, because you can find bits and pieces of yourself in them. They are so real and relate able.


All in all, I love the continuum of Han's story. PS I Still Love You was all I expected it to me, if not more. I loved every page. The time I spent reading the words was well spent. I cannot wait to re-read the story time and time again. And I cannot wait for my friends to read the story too, so we can talk about.

JENNY HAN, you have outdone yourself yet again! What a beautiful story!!

*Read Sara's review on CARPE LIBRUM GIRL !!

James Dashner : THE KILL ORDER

Warning: The truth is far more maddening that you thought!

THE KILL ORDER is prequel to one of the greatest book series I have ever read - THE MAZE RUNNER. These stories come from a pen of a great author of thrillers, James Dashner.


I have so much love for the main story in the Maze Runner series that I couldn't wait to read the prequel. I hoped it would give me a glimpse into the world of WICKED. A glimpse it did give me, but a different one than I expected. 

*****

Sun flares have unleashed devastation on the Earth. Mark and Trina were there when it happened, and against the odds they survived. But now a violent and highly contagious disease is spreading like wildfire. Worse still, it's mutating, and people are going crazy. Mark and Trina will do anything to save their friends - if only they can avoid madness and stay alive ...

*****

Firstly, let's talk about the book edition first. I own the paperback published in 2013. 331 pages long. I bought it as a part of collection. Black background. Yellow illustration and shiny silver title. Simple, yet effective. 

The writing is engaging. Thrilling. Smart. Very scary at times. But at the same time is a lot different to the other three books. It the same type of writing, but something just doesn't click.  At least not for me.


The story itself has a potential to be great. It goes into the past and gives us a view of the world after the Sun Flares hit. I thought it might be a story of how the Flare spread, what caused it and how the WICKED has been formed. But instead we only get to find out how the Flare was spread. And it's a terrifying secret which will shock you to the core, but the story itself is quite long-winding and boring at times. I was pretty disappointed to be honest. I was expecting more. I wanted to find out how Thomas & his friends got to WICKED and who was originally behind it. But the plot was only around the Flare itself. Yes, it was horrifying how the Flare actually entered the world, but the accompanying story fail to impress. 

I am really sorry Ms Dashner, but the prequel to Maze Runner was way worse than the main three books. The plot didn't make me want to pick up the book time and time again to find out what happen next. The character weren't as interesting as our group of Gladers. The development of the story itself wasn't as exciting as the main plot line. On the contrary, I had to force myself to read the book as it slow pace made me fall asleep on couple of occasions. 


Neither did I feel for the characters. There weren't many opportunities to get to know the characters and their individual stories. It felt like their life before and after the Sun Flares wasn't much thought through. I didn't develop any kind of appreciation for them. And I should have. They went through the worst time ever. They lost their homes.. Their whole world has been thrown into pure chaos.. And just when they started to feel a little bit of hope, it has been shattered to little pieces again. But I wasn't sad for them. I didn't feel anything. They were strangers for me. Which is a great shame.

So Mr Dashner, although I could sing a whole hymn about the main three books of Maze Runner, the prequel fail flat for me. I don't think I will re-read it again. It is a great shame and there is so much potential to this story.

James Dashner : MAZE RUNNER BOOK SERIES

Warning! Take a week or two off. Once you start reading this book, you will not be able to put it down until you read the last page.

THE MAZE RUNNER is thrilling dystopian YA book series written by James Dashner.


I have first heard of it couple of years ago when I stumbled upon some pictures from shooting the film adaptation. I have researched it. And found out that it is been praised by many book lovers and bibliophiles. There was just so much love for Dashner's writing that I couldn't resist and decided to purchase the whole book series. And what a great decision I have made!

*****

There are 3 main books and a prequel in this series.

THE MAZE RUNNER

When the lift cranks open, the only thing Thomas remembers is his first name. But he's not alone - an army of boys welcome him to the Glade, an encampment at the centre of a terrible maze. The Gladers have no idea why they're there, or what's happened to the world outside. And following the arrival of a girl with a message, they must find a way out - or die.

THE SCORCH TRIALS

Surviving the Maze was supposed to be the end. No more puzzles. And no more running. Thomas was sure that escaping meant he would get his life back. But no one knew what sort of life they were going back to... Burned and baked, the earth is a wasteland, its people driven mad by an infection known as the Flare. Instead of freedom, Thomas must face another trial. He must cross the Scorch to once again save himself and his friends.

THE DEATH CURE

The trials are over. WICKED is planning to restore the survivors' memories and complete the final cure for the Flare. But Thomas has already remembered more than they think. And he knows WICKED can't be trusted. The time for lies is over. But the truth is more dangerous than Thomas could ever imagine. Will anyone survive the Death Cure?

THE KILL ORDER (Prequel)

Sun flares have unleashed devastation on the Earth. Mark and Trina were there when it happened, and against the odds they survived. But now a violent and highly contagious disease is spreading like wildfire. Worse still, it's mutating, and people are going crazy. Mark and Trina will do anything to save their friends - if only they can avoid madness and stay alive...

*****

Firstly, let's talk about the edition of the series first. These books has been re-published couple of times with various designs. I own the editions published in 2013. They have very simple design. Black background with coloured illustrations and title. Green. Orange. Blue. Yellow. They compliment each other rather nicely. Each book is about 350 pages long.


For the purpose of this review I have decided to talk about the main story - the first 3 books.

I have been captivated by this story ever since I have read the first book. This book series is an epic story of a fight to survive the unexpected. Your actions and reactions are recorded, monitored and mapped in order to find a cure for a deadly disease which threatens to kill the majority of human population. 

The writing ?!? Wow!!! That's how I would summarise the story and the writing. It starts a little bit slow but then it picks up and won't stop. Every single chapter manages to leave you breathless. It's brilliance is in the constant fast pace of this story. It's thrilling. Exciting. Brutal at times. It continues on surprising every single time you pick up the book. You think there cannot be possibly more! Sure this craziness must stop. This is as far as it can go.. NO, YOU ARE WRONG!! It gets even more crazier and scarier. You will huff and puff at the end of every single passing chapter. It's like a christmas morning where the presents just keep on coming.


The story?!? OMG!!! The possibility of sun flares which burnt down half of the world... Then an illness which killed off 75 percent of survivors.. We can say, that life is hard at the moment... There is a desperate search for cure. And the government will go to extreme lengths to find it. Welcome to WICKED and their secret project.

Thomas and the Gladers have their memory erased. They are put through the ultimate hardcore test. And not many survive these tests. It's all about the survival of the fittest. This story managed to left me with my mouth wide opened all the way through reading it. I couldn't put it down. It was impossible! I had to keep on reading. I needed to find out all about The Maze, The Scorch Trials and what would happen to my favourite group of Gladers if they survive the trials. And will The WICKED find the cure?


It was an emotional journey. I witnessed the death of some great characters. I have grown to love them all. So when they hurt, I hurt. I was surprised with certain developments and how much I was disappointed with some characters, but also how much I loved the little group of surviving boys from the Glade.

• Thomas. The lead character and the favourite of the WICKED. He used to work with them, he actually helped to develop the plans of trials, but he is a man of his own mind. He is a little bit annoying at the start but he always tries to help and save his friends. He is compassionate and fights for the good in the world.

• Minho. The leader of the runners. He has a very strange sense of humour. He loses his temper easily, but he is the best friend you can wish for.

• Newt. He is my favourite character. He is a wonderful friend. Most of the time he is the voice of the reason. He is a great friend who always has your back.

• Teresa. She used to part of WICKED and co-captain in mastering the plans for the Trials with Thomas. They used to be best friends. Before the Swipe. Now, they are friends but they trust is broken thanks to the Trials and their consequences.

• Brenda. She is smart. Brave. And cares about her friends. She is prepared to go to extreme lengths to fight for the good.

• Jorge. An older man in the group. Him and Brenda think of each other as family. They have been through a lot. He is a survivor. He believes in free mind.

There are couple of things which I thought about a lot after finishing reading this story:

• Global Warming. This issue has been a top of talk around the world. Enviro-mentalists all around the world keep warning us about it. But I don't think we paying enough attention to this issue. But these books are servicing a type of a warning. It describes the effects of what can happen if we don't start treating our beloved Earth more carefully. 

• My level of fitness and possibility of surviving The Trials. They are slim to none at the moment. It's time to hit the gym again. I need to get my survival instinct back and start shaping up and be more fitter. When it comes to end of the world, it's all about the Survival of The fittest. Meal plan adjusted. I am putting down the chocolate bar. I am swapping it for carrots and hours in the gym. Where can I sign for kick-boxing classes? 

But let's put humour aside. All in all, this book was a wonderful, thrilling, at times very terrifying ride. Every single book ending up with a cliffhanger. The author managed to keep you interested and invested all the way through without lacking in the plot twists department. I have loved every minute of reading it. 

So thank you Mr Dashner for letting me in to the world of sun-destroyed Earth. It was a wonderful adventure. I cannot wait to see all three books on the big screen. BRAVO!!!

*****

PS: You can find the film adaptation of MAZE RUNNER in your local DVD store. THE SCORCH TRIALS film is set to be released SEPTEMBER 18th 2015. Put me down for 2 tickets.

Waiting On Wednesday #18: HELLO, GOODBYE, AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN by Jennifer E. Smith

HELLO, GOODBYE, AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN
by Jennifer E. Smith


Publication Date : September 1st 2015
Publisher : Poppy
Genre : Young Adult / Contemporary / Romance
Available To Pre-Order : Amazon UK


On the night before they leave for college, Clare and Aiden only have one thing left to do: figure out whether they should stay together or break up. Over the course of twelve hours, they'll retrace the steps of their relationship, trying to find something in their past that might help them decide what their future should be. The night will lead them to friends and family, familiar landmarks and unexpected places, hard truths and surprising revelations. But as the clock winds down and morning approaches, so does their inevitable goodbye. The question is, will it be a goodbye for now or goodbye forever? 


This must-read novel from Jennifer E. Smith, author of Statistical Probability of Falling In Love At First Sight, explores the difficult choices that must be made when life and love lead in different directions. 

*****

I am not sure if you noticed this before, but I am a huge fan of Jennifer E. Smith and her stories. It all started with Statistical Probability of Falling in Love at First Sight, moved onto This Is What Happy Looks Like, all the way to The Geography of You And Me... Every single novel is like a comfort blanket. I am just the happiest when reading these stories. She is the queen of YA contemporary love stories. And I let you on a secret - I have already pre-orderded this novel!!! :)

What are you waiting for this Wednesday? 

**"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking The Spine, 

that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.**

Waiting On Wednesday #17 : THE REST OF US JUST LIVE HERE by Patrick Ness

THE REST OF US JUST LIVE HERE
by Patrick Ness



Publication Date : August 27th 2015
Publisher : Walker Books
Genre : Young Adult / Fantasy / Contemporary
Available To Pre-Order : Amazon UK



What if you aren't the Chosen One?

The one who's supposed to fight the zombies, or the soul-eating ghosts, or whatever the heck this new thing is, with the blue lights and the death?

What if you're like Mikey? Who just wants to graduate and go to prom and maybe finally work up the courage to ask Henna out before someone goes and blows up the high school. Again. 

Because sometimes there are problems bigger than this week's end of the world, and sometimes you just have to find the extraordinary in your ordinary life. 

Even if your best friends is worshipped by mountain lions. 

Award-winning writer Patrick Ness's bold and irrelevant novel powerfully reminds us that there are many different types of remarkable. 

*****

I have a couple of books at home written by Patrick Ness. I have not had the pleasure to read any of them yet, but they all sound very intriguing. And this one isn't an exception. So I will definitely adding it to my personal library. 

What are you waiting for this Wednesday? 

**"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking The Spine, 

that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.**

Teri Terry : SLATED BOOK SERIES

Warning!! This is one of the darkest book series I have ever read! It will leave you with mouth wide opened!

SLATED is young adult, sci-fi and very dystopian book series written by a talented author with a very unique name, Teri Terry!


Slated series has been noticed and recommended by some great publications like Guardian & New York Times; and many, many book bloggers all around the world. So naturally, I was drawn to it. I had to have it and read it! And I must say I wasn't disappointed.

*****

"Everything I have been looking for in a book: suspense, mind-bending mystery, romance and just the right amount of science fiction." LINDSAYCUMMINGSBLOG.BLOGSPOT.COM

"An original and hating psychological thriller. I was gripped from the first page and couldn't wait to read more." Julie Bertagna, author of EXODUS & ZENITH

*****

There are 3 books in this series: 

SLATED

Kyla's memory has been erased her personality wiped blank, her memories lost for ever. She's been Slated. The government claims she was a terrorist, and that they are giving her a second chance - as long as she plays by their rules. But echoes of the past whisper in Kyla's mind. Someone of the past whisper in Kyla's mind. Someone is lying to her, and nothing is as it seems. Who can she trust in her search for the truth?

FRACTURED

Kyla shouldn't remember anything from before she was Slated, but dark secrets of her past will not stay buried. Caught in a tug of war between Lorder oppression and the fight for freedom, her past and present race towards a collision she may not survive. While her desperate search for Ben continues, who can she trust in this world of secrets and lies? 

SHATTERED

Kyla was Slated : her mind wiped clean by the oppressive Lorder government. When forbidden memories of a violent past began to surface, so did doubts: could she trust those she had come to care for, like Ben? Helped by friends in MIA, she goes undercover, searching for her past and evading the authorities who want her dead. But the truth Kyla desperately seeks is more shocking than she ever imagined. 

Firstly let's talk about the books and their design. Paperbacks. Beautiful photo of a girl on the cover. This must be Kyla. The book have different colouring. Black, Red & Icy Blue. But they compliment each other beautifully. It's a tasteful and very eye-catching design.

The story is written from Kyla's point of view. The writing is very real. Dark. Thrilling. This psychological trilogy makes sure that you are gripped straight from the start and won't let you go. Not even for one bit. It's mesmerising. And so so scary! Kyla's story and the whole slating business absolutely terrified me. Lorders and the whole government structure was petrifying. Especially, since is so so possible. I live in UK and the author plays with the possibility of UK distancing itself from EU and the backlash from it. So this idea could become a reality one day... And what petrifies me the most...

I was surprised how dark this book is. There is a lot of bad, horrible things happening. But it keeps you entertained. Not at one point I thought: ' Great, this is getting boring!' Actually, the opposite is true. I was surprised with brand new twists on every corner. There are so many secrets and nothing seems as it used to be in the first book.  And the people you like in the first book? You will end up hating them in the last book! Well, maybe hate is a strong word. You will dislike them. That I can promise you.

The story itself is so intriguing. Apart from touching up on subject of politics, it also exercise the law and human rights. The possibility of Slating youngsters who committed crimes.. Their constant monitoring via LEVO.. And the rules they have to follow. What shocked me the most was the rule of getting pregnant. That scene made me gasp and cry out!!

I also love how the books didn't follow the same line of the story. With every released book in the series, there are more and more secrets coming out and at the end you are left with the mouth wide opened. What a pleasure to read this thrilling adventure!!

As I said before, the characters in this book go to a great length of development. The people you liked at the beginning, you end up hating / disliking. 

• Kyla. She is possibly one of the strongest female leads I have the pleasure to read about. She literally goes through hell, but never gives up. She is intelligent, pragmatical but sensitive at the same time. She cares about her friends and family and would go to extreme lengths to save them when necessary. 

• Ben. He was such a charming dude at the beginning. He seems to really like Kyla. But that the Lorders reprogrammed him and everything has changed. 

• Adrian. Sweet adrian. Human rights advocate trying to make the world better place. He watches Kyla love Ben from the distance even though he is in love with her never forcing her to chose him. 

• Nico. A terrorist. Bend on destroying Lorders any way possible. He doesn't care about people. He only cares about himself. 

• Kyla's adoptive mother. Another very strong character who lost her son. She grows to love Kyla and Amy unconditionally even though they aren't her daughters. She has been through a lot in her life but it only made her stronger. 

So Ms Teri Terry. I have to say that I really really really liked the story you have written. It was so much darker than most of the book series in YA genre. It was packed with constant turns I didn't see coming. It was a ride on a roller-coaster. And definitely, it was worth the read. 

Well Ms Terry. I cannot wait to read more from your pen. 

Tahereh Mafi : SHATTER ME SERIES

Warning!! Seriously, this is possibly the best book series I have ever read. Nothing is what it seems to be in the first book. Prepare for a wonderful actioned packed adventure!

SHATTER ME is a dystopian young adult book series written by the very wonderful and talented Tahereh Mafi.


This series has been recommended to me by many of my book lover and fellow book reviewer, friends. Actually, one of favourite people in the world Sara (you all know her as Carpe Librum Girl*) swears by this book series. It's one of her favourites. So of course, I had to find out for myself, if the rumours are true and this series is the one to be in your personal library.

*****

I HAVE A CURSE. I HAVE A GIFT. 

I'M A MONSTER. I'M MORE THAN HUMAN.

MY TOUCH IS LETHAL. MY TOUCH IS POWER.

I AM THEIR WEAPON. I WILL FIGHT BACK. 

*****

There are 3 main books and 2 novellas in this series: 

SHATTER ME

No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal, but The Reestablishment has plans for her. Plans to use her as a weapon. But Juliette has plans of her own. After a lifetime without freedom, she's finally discovering a strength to fight back for the very first time - and to find a future with the one boy she thought she'd lost forever. 

UNRAVEL ME

Juliette has escaped from The Reestablishment. Now she's free from their plan to use her as a weapon, and free to love Adam. But Juliette will never be free from her lethal touch. Or from Warner, who wants Juliette more than she ever thought possible. Haunted by her past and terrified of her future, Juliette knows that she will have to make some life-changing choices. Choices that may involve choosing between her heart - and Adam's life. 

IGNITE ME

Everyone Juliette has ever cared about could be dead. Juliette may be the only one standing in The Reestablishment's way. But to take them down, Juliette will need the help of the one person she never thought she could trust: Warner. And as they work together to defeat their mutual enemy, Juliette will discover that everything she thought she knew - about Warner, her abilities, and even Adam - was wrong. 

UNITE ME

(Destroy Me & Fracture Me)

In Destroy Me, Warner, the ruthless leader of Sector 45, refuses to let her go. 

In Fracture Me, Adam, Juliette's first love, will do anything to get her back. 

Let's talk about the books and design first. I love love love the covers! I don't think there is a book or two in my library which covers I adore more. I own the paperbacks with the beautiful eyes on the front. Each instalment has a different motive and they just take my breath away every single time I look at them. I love how the graphic design team stuck with one design and every book in the series compliment each other. Absolutely mesmerising. So so pretty. Eye-catching (pun intended). 

The writing. Tahereh Mafi is a genius. I envy and admire the way she writes. I love how the story includes crossed off sentences. It gives it a new level of uniqueness. She writes the story from Juliette's point of view, but she doesn't leave out the bits or the way Juliette thinks. The crossed off lines are Juliette's internal dialogues and they make this story even more original. The writing is captivating. Thrilling.  Absolutely gripping. An exciting ride packed with twists and turns no reader sees coming. And the level of sexual tension just takes your breathe away. I don't think I have ever read a book packed with so much sexual tension you cut it with a cake knife. Ever. E.L. James could learn something from Mafi's writing. On occasions it even leaves you flushed. Especially when it comes to Warner's & Juliette's chemistry! 

The story is just so different to others. You start the first book and you think you have it all figured out. You think you know how this will go. You guess who is the main love interest for the main character is. You predict who is the bad guy in the story... But then you read on and everything changes. Whilst reading the second book you start to change your initial prediction. You will start falling for the 'bad' guy of the story. You will shift your alliances. And when the third book comes along, you are so engrossed in the story then you literally swallow the book without chewing.




You get more and more sucked in with every page, every chapter, every book.  Bloody Hell, you won't be able to put it down! It's so captivating. You are so obsessed with the story, that the outside worlds fails to exist for you.There are so many twists and turns... It might even cause you a heart attack at certain point. But the story just keeps on giving. It keeps you on your toes. Mix in super-powers and you got yourself a fantastic recipe one of the best book series you ever read. And let's me honest, you will want to find out, if Juliette manages to bring down The Reestablishment. And who she will choose?

The character development is in this story is fascinating. It is one of the best ones I have pleasure to read. 

• Juliette is such a young girl with so many issues. At the beginning, she is so vulnerable. She is scared and alone. And she is craving love and attention. But as the story continues, she gets stronger, more confident and very protective of her friends. She wants to get her independence back. She wants to save the world.

• Warner. Oh man!! The boy is hot! I knew from the start that there is more to him than meets the eye. And I am so happy that I was not wrong. He is kind but firm. Smart and fit. Not bad to look at either. But what I like the most about him is that he doesn't treat Juliette like a toy or a delicate flower which can break easily. He treats her with respect and admiration at the same time. He treats her like an equal. I have to say, he has become my ultimate book boyfriend crush. 

• Adam.What can I say about him. I know he loves Juliette. But he is one of the character who ended up disappointing me the most. He turned out to be pretty bland. What angers me most about him, you might ask. It's not the fact that he treat Juliette like sugar cone which can break at any time. It's not the fact that he is pretty selfish at times not carrying about everyone else. It is the attitude -  he would rather survive than live life to the fullest. And that I cannot stand. 

• Kenji. Now, let's talk about my favourite character of them all. I love love love him. He brings a little bit sass and hilarity into the story. And he is such a great friend to Juliette. Not to mentioned, that he is fair and gives everyone a chance. 

I love all the complicated relationship between the character. Juliette's friendship with Kenji always puts a smile on my face. Their banter brings a little bit on sunshine into this quite dark story. Adam's love for Juliette is way too heavy. He is overprotective and treats her like a child at times. Which brings me to Warner and Juliette... Wow, it couldn't get more enjoyable. At the start she hates him, in the middle she is attracted to him but doesn't trust him and at the end... well.. she realises that he is the one for her. And he loves her all the way through and never gives up on her. He supports her and tells her that she can achieve greatness. Hello!! Relationship goals!! I adore the tender friendship which developed between Kenji and James. And I do have to give Adam credit for loving and doing everything to make James happy and healthy kid. What can I say ? It's a roller coaster ride. 

So, I can safely say that this book series is one of the best one I have ever read. It was a gripping adventure packed with thick sexual tension and unexpected surprises. 

Thank YOU! Thank YOU! THANK YOU Tahereh Mafi!! This book series took my breathe away. It was a wonderful read. 

*check out Sara's blog http://carpelibrumgirl.blogspot.co.uk ! It's definitely worth the read!! 

Waiting On Wednesday #16 : CARRY ON by Rainbow Rowell

CARRY ON
by Rainbow Rowell 


Publication Date : October 6th 2015
Publisher : St. Martin's Griffin
Genre : Young Adult / Fantasy
Available To Pre-Order : Amazon UK


Rainbow Rowell continues to break boundaries with Carry On, an epic fantasy following the triumphs and heartaches of Simon and Baz from her beloved bestseller Fangirl.

Simon Snow just wants to relax and savor his last year at the Watford School of Magicks, but no one will let him. His girlfriend broke up with him, his best friend is a pest, and his mentor keeps trying to hide him away in the mountains where maybe he’ll be safe. Simon can’t even enjoy the fact that his roommate and longtime nemesis is missing, because he can’t stop worrying about the evil git. Plus there are ghosts. And vampires. And actual evil things trying to shut Simon down. When you’re the most powerful magician the world has ever known, you never get to relax and savor anything.

Carry On is a ghost story, a love story, a mystery and a melodrama. It has just as much kissing and talking as you’d expect from a Rainbow Rowell story — but far, far more monsters.

*****

You all know how much love I carry for Rainbow Rowell and all of her novels. Fangirl is actually in my Top 10 All Time Favourite Books. And Carry On started as a Fan-Fiction in Fangirl Cather was writing. And a year later.. there is a new book with Simon Snow.. Put me down on the waiting list, I have to have it!!

What are you waiting for this Wednesday? 

**"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking The Spine, 

that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.**

JUNE READING CHALLENGE

Hello there my lovelies!!!

How are you all? Guess what!! The summer is starting!! Today is June 1st !!! Gone are cold days, let's welcome the sunshine! At least I hope, but you never know with the weather forecast !!

But since a new month is here, it's time for me to share with you my TBR list for the wonderful month of June! 

I was thinking for a while about the upcoming months' TBR lists and I think I came up with some wonderful choices for the summer. 

But before I start my JUNE READING CHALLENGE, I have to tie some loose ends. Firstly, I do apologise for the lack of posts and reviews, but I have to blame NETFLIX for it. I have discovered that it holds all 4 seasons of Once Upon A Time and somehow I got addicted to that TV show. Luckily for you, there are only 4 seasons and I have finally watched them all, so I am back to my normal self. Of course, due to my lack of reading, I am a little behind with MAY TBR LIST. Don't fret though, I only need to finish off MAZE RUNNER book series and then the June fun can begin. 

So without any more chit chat, here is my TBR list for the wonderful, and hopefully very sunny month of JUNE!!

*****

JUNE READING CHALLENGE

NEVER NEVER by Colleen Hoover & Tarryn Fisher

Charlize Wynwood and Silas Nash have been best friends since before they could walk. They've been in love since the age of fourteen. But as of this morning... they are complete strangers. Their first kiss,  their first fight, the moment they fell in love.. every memory has vanished. Charlize and Silas must work together to uncover the truth about what happened to them and why. But the more they learn about the couple they used to be... the more they question why they were ever together to begin with. 

P.S. I STILL LOVE YOU by Jenny Han

Lara Jean didn't expect to really fall for Peter. They had just been pretending. Expect suddenly they weren't. Now Lara Jean is more confused than ever. Then another boy from her past returns to her life, and Lara Jean's feelings for him return too. Can a girl be in love with two boys at the same time? 

AFTERWORLDS by Scott Westerfeld

Two girls. Two worlds. One book. 

Lizzie should have died in a terrorist attack. But Lizzie is a character in Darcy's first novel, 'AFTERWORLDS' - and death only makes her stronger. Sold to a New York publisher for a huge advance, 'AFTERWORLDS' catapults Darcy into the glittering book world and puts her college plans on hold. Immersed in rewrites, author parties and book tours, Darcy comes of age as she struggles with the perfect ending to her novel - and the intoxicating beginning of first love. 

Darcy writes the words. Lizzie lives them. 

I WAS HERE by Gayle Forman

Some lights are too bright to last. 

Cody and Meg were inseparable - best friends for life. They knew everything about each other. Or Cody thought they did. But how well do you ever really know your best friend? And what do you do when they choose to leave you behind? 

A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES by Sarah J. Maas

Feyre is a huntress. She thinks nothing of slaughtering a wolf to capture its prey. But, like all mortals, she fears what lingers mercilessly beyond the forest. And she will learn that taking the life of a magical creature comes at a high price... Imprisoned in an enchanted court in her enemy's kingdom, Feyre is free to roam but forbidden to escape. Her captor's body bears the scars of fighting, and his face is always masked - but his piercing stare draws her ever closer. As Feyre's feelings for Tamlin begin to burn through every warning she's been told about his kind, an ancient, wicked shadow grows. 

DELIRIUM series by Lauren Oliver

DELIRIUM

PANDEMONIUM

REQUIEM 

What if love were a disease? 

There was a time when love was the most important thing in the world. People would go to the end of the earth to find it. They would tell lies for it. Even kill for it. 

Then, at last, they found the cure. 

*****

There you have it. 1 book series, 6 very different stories. 

I am excited. Ecstatic. Cannot wait to get lost in new worlds and new adventures. 

What about you ? What is on your TBR list this month?

xoxo