Jandy Nelson : I'LL GIVE YOU THE SUN

Warning! Prepare yourself for some major feelings!!

I'LL GIVE YOU THE SUN is a contemporary YA novel written by the gorgeous and very talented Jandy Nelson.

This is a second book I have read which bares the same author's name. I absolutely loved THE SKY IS EVERYWHERE. She set the bar really high with that one. I was expecting great things. Many book bloggers around the world sang praises about I'll Give You The Sun, so of course I was intrigued and very interested in finding out if all the lovely reviews are through. And August allowed me to finally found out.

*****

Jude and her twin Noah are close until a tragedy drives them apart. Now they are barely speaking - and both falling for boys they can't have. Love's complicated.

*****

Short but very intriguing blur. It makes you want to read more. It makes you want to find out more. Very effective. Actually let just express how much I love the whole edition. I own the paperback published this year by Walker books. I think this type was specially realised for Waterstones - UK bookstore. I love the book's yellow design. Pages dyed yellow colour. Front and back is yellow too with black writing and drawings. 429 pages. I love, love, LOVE the whole edition. Mine even includes two postcards! Yay.


The writing. Easy to read. Modern. Filled with so many emotions. Intriguing. The story is told from two points of view: Noah ( Age 13,5 - 14) & Jude (Age 16). The way it is told from these two point of views in different timelines keeps it more interesting. I makes you want to read on and find out what has happened to these two twins who used to be joint by the hip and now they are barely speaking.

I also want to say how much I appreciate that Ms Nelson included a homosexual relationship. Many authors in YA are still staying away from these relationship, but thank god Ms Nelson didn't do the same. I love Noah. He is a wonderful character. And he is falling in love with the boy next door. You can see how much they care about each other. Even at a young age. You can witness them falling in love and struggling against the prejudice and judgement of others. What a beautiful story.


Jude is a beautiful young female character who's struggling to find her feet in the world at the moment. Something in the past made her close herself from the world. Become invisible. She lost herself. She lost her connection to her brother. Her soul mate. And now she is falling for a guy when least expected. Armed with a her inherited bible - a book of proverbs, she is trying her hardest to find hew right path.

Wow, this story left me with so, SO many feelings. I cried. I laughed. The way the story is written its like luring you in. Slowly, with subtle jokes and easy going writing, and then it's get more more and  serious. It makes you even more hooked and you cannot put it down. You hold your breathe that the twins find their way back to each other. You wish for them to get the boys they both love. You want all general happy ending. It's spell-binding. Magical. Artsy. Beautiful. It's a book which will stay with you long after you have finish it.


So well done Ms Nelson. You have done it again! You made me an emotional wreck with you heart-shattering, wonderful tale. I wasn't able to part with it for even a day. Thank you for introducing me to Jude & Noah and their little world. Your mesmerising story-telling wrote a book I cannot wait to re-read in the future and recommend it to all my friends. Also, thank you for sharing with us your introduction and feelings about this story. Your words were beautiful.


So all in all, I think every reader who loves a good emotional tale should have think book in their library.

Ms Nelson I cannot wait to read your next book :)

Adi Alsaid : LET'S GET LOST

Warning! If you are expecting a classic road trip style of a book, then you are in a hell of a surprise!

LET'S GET LOST is a Young Adult debut novel written by the well-travelled Adi Alsaid. This is a first novel by Mr Alsaid I have read.

I included this book on my August for 3 reasons :

1. The blur on the back sounded promising.

2. It's a road trip style of a book. And you know how much I have grown to love those.

3. And it sounded like a good novel to read in the summertime.

So of course, the pros have won and I have decided to find out what is hidden within the novel's pages.

*****

ONE GIRL COULD CHANGE FOUR LIVES FOREVER...

Mysterious Leila, who is on the road trip of a lifetime, has a habit  of crashing into people's worlds at the moment they need someone the most.

There's Hudson, who is willing to throw away his dreams for love. And Bree, a runaway who seizes every Tuesday - and a few stolen goods along the way. Elliot, who believes in happy endings... until his own goes off-script. And Sonia, who worries that she's lost her ability to love.

Hudson, Bree, Elliot and Sonia find a friend in Leila. But Leila's trip could help her discover something bigger - that sometimes the only way to find what you're looking for is to get lost along the way...

*****

Ok, let's start with the easy part first. The edition. I am a proud owner of the paperback edition published by Harlequin Teen in 2014. 338 pages divided into 5 parts : HUDSON, BREE, ELLIOT, SONIA & LEILA. The cover is hip and trendy. A map of USA and a road trip destination marked on it. The writing in red, orange & pink tones which compliments each other. The design is very simple and modern. I really like it.

The writing is easy to read and follow. I do enjoy that the story is told from 5 different points of view. I love how each character has a different tale to tell. We can all find a representation of ourselves in one of their stories. They are very relatable. Funny. Exciting. Hilarious at times. I love the mystery around Leila. We don't know why she decided to go on a road trip at the start. We don't get to know her story until the very end. But she has an aura about her. Her good heart and beautiful personality shines through. She helps them figure out their troubles and their story.

And that is why Leila is one of the most fascinating characters I have the pleasure to meet for quite some time. She is a beautiful girl with a kind heart. She is on a mission to see The Northern Lights. And on the way she meets strangers in trouble and helps them figure out their paths in life. She has a secret which she takes anywhere with her. A secret which hangs above her but doesn't stop her to live her life and help others.

However, my favourite story is Elliot's. I adore the story of un-required love. We all have been in Elliot's shoes regardless if we are a girl or a boy. We all know how heartbreaking the situation can get. But Leila doesn't let Elliot to let go of his dream her. She pushes him and pushes him to do everything in his power to win the love of the girl. I also love how many film references are mentioned in this part! Bring on good old 80's romantic comedies - The Breakfast Club at the top.

So all in all, I fell in love with this book. I must say I wasn't sure about it at the start. Hudson's story didn't impress me much, but then we met Bree, Elliot & Sonia and I was slowly finding myself invested more and more in the story. And then the heart-breaking reason's of Leila's journey came out and I was crying my eyes out. Especially when little Dee decided to throw Leila a birthday party. So thoughtful that little monkey !!

This was an inspiring adventure. Not only I got to go on a road trip around USA ( my ever present dream and hope for the future), but I also read 5 wonderful tales about love, friendship, loss and finding happiness. It was beautiful. Charming. Spell-bounding. Eternal. Adorable.

So thank Adi for taking the time and put on a paper such a great tale. I cannot wait to read more stories created in your talented mind. 

Victoria Aveyard : RED QUEEN

Warning! Prepare for the unexpected!

RED QUEEN is a Fantasy Young Adult novel written by the very talented story-teller Victoria Aveyard. This is her debut novel, but I after reading it,  I can predict great things ahead for this author.


I've read about this book online earlier this year. Its blur and my new found love for fantasy YA made sure that I have pre-ordered. I couldn't wait to read it, but I have been busy with other stories... Then the amazing reviews started to flood in and all I wanted to do is read it for myself. So when the opportunity has risen, ZC book club on IG readers picked this book for August's Read, I found myself jumping up and down from excitement. I wanted to know if all the good reviews were true..


Turns out that the book reviews were holding out on me. This book was so much more.

*****

This is a world divided by blood - red or silver.

Reds are commoners, ruled by a Silver elite in possession of god-like superpowers. And to Mare Barrow, a seventeen-year-old Red girl from poverty-stricken Stilts, it seems like nothing will ever change.

That is, until a twist of fate brings her before the Silver court. Here, surrounded by the people she hates the most, Mare discovers that despite her red blood, she possesses a deadly ability of her own. Fearful of Mare's potential, the king hides her in plain view: betrothed to his youngest son. Trapped, Mare decides to use her new position to bring down the regime - from the inside.

But this is a game of betrayal and lies, and Mare has entered a dangerous dance - Reds against Silvers, prince against prince, and Mare against her own heart...

*****

Do you see now why I had to have this book in my possession? Are you intrigued? Do yourself a favour and go and buy the book! You won't regret it. But in the meantime, whilst you are waiting for the delivery, let me tell you what I thought about this fantasy adventure.


Firstly let's start with the easy part. The edition. I own the paperback published by HarperTeen this year. 383 pages divided into 28 chapters, plus epilogue. The cover is simple, yet beautiful and mesmerising. A Silver crown dripping with Red blood on the light blue background. Symbolic. Powerful and make a great summary of the story. I love the metallic red lettering announcing the title of the book. A beautiful design.


Now the writing. Wow... It's intriguing. Very entertaining. Packed with constant twist & turns and moments which leaves you with your mouth wide opened thinking : WTF !! I didn't see this coming! I love how much imagination went into creating this world of Reds and Silvers. So many details I wouldn't even dream of thinking about. Ms Aveyard put a lot of thought into this story. And she didn't fail.

She made me fall in love it. Straight from the start. I was a bit confused when reading the first chapter, but soon enough I got hang on this world and was enjoying the story tremendously. I love the super-human powers the Silvers and Mare has. It brings a new element into Fantasy YA. Super-heroes. There a some great YA stories out there which are using super humans in their stories, but they are mostly the dystopian types. It's the first fantasy YA I read where this theme is used. And I love it.


The story itself is mesmerising. I found myself hooked and not being able to put this book down. It's got everything a good story needs : Society divided between rich and strong Silvers & poor & powerless Reds; a possible love triangle, maybe even love square between Mare, Cal, Maven & Kilorn; backstabbing; underground rebels planning  a revolution against the current system and a  heroine trapped between it all. Brilliant. Fantastic. Breath-taking.



What I enjoy about the book the most is the characters. They aren't flawless. Hell, sometimes I just wanna shake them up and scream at them: What are you doing? Mare is a great female lead. She is stubborn, pig-headed at times, but strong and fierce. She makes mistakes. A lot of mistakes. At the moment in time, she blames a lot of them on others. And she doesn't seem to be able to see things from more than one point of view which makes a good target for being used for someone else's evil plans. Cal. Oh, I have a confession to make. I am crushing on Cal at the moment. He is a strong man. Clever. Powerful. Tactical. He could be a great king (and I hope he will one day) if he wasn't afraid of changes and taking risks. But I trust him. I trusted him more that his evil brother. Which brings me to Maven. Wow, I didn't see that coming. I didn't like him from the start. There was just some untrustworthy air about him, but he kept playing nice. But than he turns out to be Brutus. He is a boy with some serious issues. Shame, that it looks like one of faves in this story - Julian - doesn't seem to survive the first instalment. He was a great teacher to Mare and I think she needs someone like him in her life. He can guide and not take her excuses. He can be stern with her. I will miss him.

The relationships between the characters are wonderful to read. I love the friendship between Mare & Kilron. They were friends since young age. She always looked after him. He is her family. Her well-know harbour. Maven & Mare... well I get why she started to love him. He played his role of a friend, someone she can trust, perfectly. He was everything she needed & wanted. And he used her. My favourite, and i really hope they find their way back to each other somehow, is the slowly developing relationship between Cal & Mare. There is so much unresolved tension around there. I will be honest, I want them to be together. What makes me angry about Mare, she expects too much from Cal. She thinks that he should do what she wants regardless the past. She doesn't seem to comprehend how and where he was brought up. He makes the most and tries to help as much as he can his people. He wants to be a great king. But changes takes time. And Mare doesn't seem to get it and ends up disappointed with Cal most of the time. She needs to cut him some slack. But he adores her. He is in love with her. And he is so hurt when she betrays him. It was heart-shattering to read.


I think you know what I am going to say. I can't find any faults with this story. It was a thrilling ride with unexpected betrayals. I cannot wait to read more. I have a serious book hangover right now!!!!!!!!! I just want more and I cannot believe that I have to wait until next year to find out more. The second book is due to be published February 9th 2016. I cannot wait to put my hands on you GLASS SWORD.

So thank you, thank you, THANK YOU Victoria Aveyard for putting your world and story on paper and let me be a part of this. It was a wonderful, entertaining journey and I cannot wait to read more.

Guest Review by ALISHA TROST

So I have decided to collaborate with more of my fellow friends in the biblio-sphere. So I have decided to join the forces with the lovely Alisha Trost from Rainy Day Reads . I asked her to write a review for the blog and in return I wrote one for hers. You can find both of the reviews on each blog's website. 

So Alisha has picked one of my favourite reads this year - WE WERE LIARS by E. LOCKHART. And here is the review she has written for us. Hope you enjoy reading it. 

*********************************************************************************

WE WERE LIARS by E. LOCKHART 

( Read & Reviewed by Alisha Trost)

Many thanks to Zuzana Vystrcilova for giving me the opportunity to guest post on her blog! Today I will be reviewing "We Were Liars" by E. Lockhart. We Were Liars was given the prestige of being named on of the best YA books by Goodreads. The book was also a National Book Award finalist and Printz Award honoree. 

*****

 Summary 

We Were Liars is a haunting story of a group of teenagers who have formed a special bond. Each teen wishes to be accepted and to be free. These teens consider love to be more important than economic and social stands. They are also sad with the prejudice and discrimination that surrounds the world. Each teen is young and has suffered their own personal injustice. This is their story. 

The story is told by a emotional, bewildered, and rejected (almost) eighteen year old young lady, Cadence Sinclair. Cadence had an accident, which she can not remember and it left her with debilitating migraines. Thus far her life is rather boring. She sits in her fancy house in Vermont reading books and taking prescription drugs for her migraines. 

In "We Were Liars" Cadence tells us about the summer when she was fifteen. This was the year that her parents divorced.  Her father, a college professor left. Cadence's mother then took Cadence to Breechwood, their private island (!) where they have an additional extravagant house. 

On the Island lives Cadence's aunts, Bess and Carrie, many cousins, especially Mirren and Johnny who are around Cadence's age. There is also Johnny's friend Gat. Cadence is in love with Gat. These four young adults are known as "The Liars" in the family. 

*****

She also tells us about summer 15. She was so ready for summer 15 on the island as she believes that Gat likes her as she likes him. However, she is heartbroken to see Gat putting a dried rose into an envelope to send to another girl. 

In part two of the book, Cadence then begins to write stories in where there is always three sisters and a king. These tales on based on the precarious relationships that her aunts and mother have with their father. Cadence also starts giving away her processions, as she knows that there are many people that have need.. 

 Candence spends summer 16 in Europe with her father instead of going to Beechwood. Her cousin Taft calls before she leaves to tell her that Cuddledown, a house on the island is haunted.

In part 3, Cadence's memory starts to return with the help of the other liars. All of them are residing in their aunt's, Bess, house. Bess has moved into New Clairmont to take care of the elderly Harris. Bess's house use to be Harris's house. Cadence is not sure why it was replaced by Bess. So she tries to find out why during her time there. 

Do you want to know what she found out?? If so, I suggest you pick up the book at your local bookstore! :) 

In part four of the book Cadence remembers the horrific details of her accident. She and the other Liars had doused some rooms with gas and torched them. Harris's dogs were trapped and the burned to death. However, that is all she can remember for now.

In the last part of the book, part five, she finally remembers. All of the Liars were trapped inside the rooms too. They all died in the fire and she was the only one who got away. The Liars and all the other people she has been hanging out with during this summer were ghosts. 

She goes to tell the Liars she knows the truth. They're happy that she finally discovered the truth because it's been getting more and more difficult for them to stay. They're tired, and they want to go back to what they describe being "like nothing." Cadence goes  to the beach with them, where they disappear. She then goes back to join the rest of her living family and vows to live out her life  from hence forth with purpose.

                                                                  My Thoughts 

Definitely different from what I usually read! Saying that, many young adults and teens would probably enjoy this book. Readers who enjoy a mysterious book will most likely enjoy this.  
This is not a "happy, lightweight" novel. It is a novel with bittersweet components. There is a little bit of romance in the book, but that is not one of the main parts of the story per se. The writing style of the book is in a poetic form. It is simple, yet complete, complex, and profound. So what are you waiting for?! Go and get this book for the teen/young adult in your life! 

Kiera Cass : THE HEIR

Warning! If you are expecting another love story in style of America & Maxon, you are in for a big surprise!!

THE HEIR is fourth book in The Selection series written by the wonderful and very inspiring Kiera Cass.

I have been blown away with The Selection series when I read it at the start of the year. I wasn't expecting much when I bought the books - maybe a Literary Bachelor type book, but instead I discovered one of my favourite book series by far. America & Maxon's love story wasn't easy and there were times when I lost the hope for them, but they made it at the end, stronger than ever before.

So when I found out that Ms Cass is publishing another novel for this series, there was no choice to make. I had to have it. And of course, I couldn't wait to read.

*****

Princess Eadlyn has grown up hearing endless stories about how her mother and father met. Twenty years ago, America Singer entered the Selection and won the heart of Prince Maxon - and they lived happily ever after. 

Eadlyn doesn't expect her own story to end in romance - she has no interest in repeating the fairy tale. But a princess's life is never entirely her own - and Eadlyn cannot escape her very own Selection and one particular entry who may just capture her heart ...

*****

The easy part first. Let's have a quick chat about the edition first. I own a paperback. 342 pages divided into 33 chapters. The book has the very same design as the rest of the books in the series. Thank you graphic design team. I appreciate that !! All novels in this series has the same signature design - a beautiful girl in a gorgeous evening gown on the front cover. THE HEIR is no different. There is photograph of Eadlyn in absolutely stunning lilac dress. I get dress envy every single time I see one of these covers. 


The writing. In the style of Kiera Cass the writing is entertaining. Modern but classic at the same time. Thrilling. Exciting. Packed with twists and turns I didn't expect coming. 


Now, what I like about this story is how different the main character and the story is to the first generation. Let me tell you something. Eadlyn is no America Singer. Firstly she is beautiful like her mother, hardworking and smart like her father. Fierce. Strong. But she is also selfish, pig-headed and doesn't properly know how to be a queen. She has been told she will be a queen since the early age, she has been trained for it, but doesn't really know how to approach this. 


The story itself... Well let's start with saying that Eadlyn isn't interesting in the romance. She is headstrong on becoming queen and she doesn't need a man for achieving it. But there are some disturbances in the country so her dad, our beloved Maxon, decides that a Selection could keep the public occupied whilst he finds the right solution to stop the riots. Eadlyn hates the idea. She doesn't want to do it. But soon enough, with a little twist in the Selection rules, she is thrown in the middle of it. She doesn't care about the guys at the start, but soon enough her hell-bend on never falling in love attitude will change. As she starts to get to know these men, she starts to develop feelings for some of them.

Kiera Cass definitely took a little different approach to this new generation. There isn't a clear candidate for Eadlyn's heart. There are three strong possibilities. Fistly, we have the wonderful finish baker who doesn't speak much english, Henri. He is kind and adores Eadlyn. Then we have a dark horse in the competition - Erik, Henri's interpreter. He is the friend's stage at the moment. But there is a lot of moments popping up where I think that Kiera is making him a valuable candidate for the princess's heart. But my favourite to win is Kile, the guy she has grown up with and loathed him. Now she cannot stop kissing him.


To be honest, at this point I have no idea which way Kiera and the new Selection is heading. There are so many possibilities and different ways this story can go. But I have to say, although I am enjoying reading it, it doesn't capture me as much as the first generation. Possibly, due to the fact there is no clear love story yet. I have no one to route for as there are so many different options. And Eadlyn is a bitch at times who is extremely selfish. I hope the letter she received from her twin brother will open her eyes and see what is wrong with her and what she needs to change. He hasn't been intentionally cruel but she needed to hear what he has written. It was time someone told her the truth. 


Anyways, all in all, it was an enjoyable story. It didn't make me swoon like the first three books, but it has a potential. I hope Kiera knows her agenda and where this story is going because I cannot wait to find out what she has in store for Eadlyn and her collection of boys. 

Another well done Kiera Cass. I always enjoy reading your stories. I love your Bachelor / Bachelorette type of story !! 

Sandy Hall : A LITTLE SOMETHING DIFFERENT

Warning!! This book is the most adorable book I have ever read. I cannot believe that it took me 6 months to read this gem!

A LITTLE SOMETHING DIFFERENT is beautiful, contemporary YA novel written by lovely and extremely talented story-teller, Sandy Hall.


I have got this book as present from the wonderful Sara aka Carpe Librum Girl for Christmas. She has read it herself and was absolutely blown away with this story, so she wanted to share it with me. Due to my busy reading schedule, it's been sitting on my book shelf ever since. Until August Reading Challenge has arrived and with it this book finally got the opportunity to reveal its secrets.


Damm, and what a beautiful tale it was holding between its pages... You know how you find a book, which just blows your mind and you cannot concentrate on anything else but reading the said book? Well this one of those books!

*****

Fourteen Viewpoints.

One Love Story.

Lea and Gabe are in the same creative writing class. They get the same pop culture references, order the same Chinese food, and hang out in the same places. Unfortunately, Lea is a little aloof, Gabe is shy, and it looks like they are never going to work things out.

But something is happening between them, and everyone can see it. Their creative writing teacher pushes them together. The baristas at the local Starbucks watch their relationship like a TV series. The bus driver tells his wife about them. The waitress at the diner automatically seats them together. Even the squirrel who lives on the college green believes Lea and Gabe were meant to be together.

*****

Ok. Let's get over with the easy part. The edition. I own the paperback published in 2014 by Swoon Reads, An Imprint of Pan MacMillan Publishing House. 242 pages long, divided into 8 months of observations written from 14 points of view in total. The cover is beautiful. Light baby pink background and dark blue and red writing and drawings forming a collage announcing the title of the book. It's so cute.


The writing is breath-taking. Engaging. Exciting. So unique from other stories. I love that the tale of these two falling in love is told by observations from various people: like Casey ( Gabe's best friend), Sam (Gabe's brother), Maribel (Lea's friend), the bus driver, Vincent, the bench and even the squirrel. It's amazing how many people can actually observe you and notice things like you hopelessly falling in love with the boy from your creative writing class... I love people watching myself, it's a hobby of mine, but what is so original about this story is that at no point we get to actually know the story from the main characters' points of view, but still we love them. We route for them. We ship them. And we believe that they should end up together.

This is a beautiful tale of romance. I was reading with permanent smile plastered on face. It made me giggle. All the way through reading it I just kept saying how adorable this story is. I found myself invested in it straight from the start and wouldn't put it down until I found out how it end.

I love the characters - all of them. The main two - Gabe and Lea, but also the people who watch them like a TV series. There are many of us who can relate to or find something just like us in this story. And that makes it even more extra special. I love that Gabe is shy, even though sometimes I just want to strangle him and make him to tell Lea the truth about his hearing. Bless her, she likes him so much and she tries so hard. They are adorable. Two cutie pies making hearts at each other. It's so wonderful and charming to read their story.

I honestly don't have anything bad to say about this book. I love it. I adore it. I woo over it. It was a pure perfection. A perfect read for any romantic soul. And even if you don't believe in romance, you still won't be able to help yourself but to fall in love with it and its protagonists.


Sandy Hall is publishing a new book later on this year - SIGNS POINT TO YES - I cannot wait to have my hands on it. If it's at least 80% good as this one, it will be worth the read. Mark your calendars for October 20th !! I have already pre-ordered it.

Well done Ms Hall. You have managed to restore my faith in love, romance, happy endings and talking squirrels and benches. I cannot wait to read more from your fantastic pen!

Rachel Hawkins : MISS MAYHEM

Warning!! Hmmm... Prepare to disappointed! Unfortunately!

MISS MAYHEM is second book in the Rebel Belle series, written by the lovely Rachel Hawkins.


Do you remember the Southern Paladin girl who's boyfriend is an Oracle and an ex-boyfriend is a Mage I read about last week?? Well she is back! And not with a boom!

*****

Life is almost back to normal for Harper Price. The Ephors have been silent after their deadly attack at Cotillion months ago, and her best friend, Bee, has returned after a mysterious disappearance. Now Harper can focus on the important things in her life: school, canoodling with David (her nemesis-turned-ward-slash-boyfie), and even competing in the Miss Pine Grove Pageant.

Unfortunately, supernatural chores are never done. The Ephors have decided they'd rather train David than kill him. The catch: Harper has to come along for the ride, but she can't stay David's Paladin unless she undergoes an ancient trial that will either kill her... or make her more powerful than ever.

*****

Firstly, let's talk about the book edition first. I own the hardback published earlier this year by G.P. Putnam's Sons. 273 pages. 36 chapters. The sleeve is having a similar design as the first book. Vintage looking golden statue of Miss Pine Grove with a sword. I assume that this represents our main girl - Harper. Underneath the sleeve, there is hiding a red book with gold lettering. It's pretty and I liked that the graphic team stuck with the original design.

The writing. Well it's stick with the same fashion. Modern. Easy to read. Very relate able. But I kinda feel like the author has run out of her original story. It seems to be that she has bitten too big bite of her cake and doesn't know how to finish the story. It's predictable. It's boring at times and it drags on.

I will be honest. I knew from reading the first book that it's a one of a simpler writing, but I didn't feel any excitement. For a YA novel about mythical creatures like paladins, oracles and mages it's lacking excitement and action.  Even the blur of the book sounds more interesting and more exciting than the story itself.

Seriously. I feel like the author is literally milking the cow dry. It feels like a forced sequel without being properly thought through. It's too simple. As much as I do enjoy the humour, it doesn't save the story. To be honest, the only reason why I have finished reading the book was the hilarious dialogues.

But there is no proper development of story or the characters. If feels like the magic has fizzled out (pun intended). I am missing the spell which I am usually under when reading a book. I quite happily put the book down back on the shelf and never read it again. 

But of course, we don't know what has happened to David, so I have to buy the last instalment in the series but I can honestly say I am not bothered to read it anytime soon. And LADY RENEGADES doesn't get publish until next year anyway.


I just hope that the author will think this story through properly. I hope she will take her time and make sure that she develops it more, gets more exciting and actually brings some action to this mix between Buffy, The Vampire Slayer; True Blood & Gossip Girl. I just want it to improve so badly. What makes me angry the most is the fact that the story has such a great potential. With the right take and the right story-telling, it could be a bestseller - the next Twilight..


But the train left the station and now we are left with a boring tale.


So all in all, I really really didn't like the second book in this series. I was bored and found myself to on many occasions forcing myself to finish it.

I am really sorry Ms Hawkins but I think there is a lot of room for improvement for this story. I hope the last book in this series managed to surprise me in a good way.

Rachel Hawkins : REBEL BELLE

Warning!! Don't worry if you are missing Buffy, the Vampire Slayer. Rachel Hawkins brings us Rebel Belle instead!

REBEL BELLE is young adult sic-fi (?) novel written by the lovely and very talented Rachel Hawkins.

This is the first book I have ever read from the pen of this author. I have stumbled on it thanks to Instagram. Many of my friends and fellow bibliophiles recommended this book to me. So of course, I had to find out for myself, what is the fuss about.

*****

Harper Price, peerless Southern belle, was born ready for a Homecoming tiara. But after a strange run-in at the dance, Harper's destiny takes a turn for the seriously weird. She's imbued with the powers of a Paladin, a guardian with agility, super strength and lethal fighting instincts.

Just when life can't get any more disastrously crazy. Harper finds out who she's charged to protect. David Stark, school reporter, subject of a mysterious prophecy and possibly Harper's least favourite person. Things get complicated when Harper starts falling for him - and discovers that David's own fate could very well be to destroy Earth.

*****

Let's start with the edition first. I own the Hardback Edition published last year by G. P. PUTNAM'S SONS. 345 pages long. 41 hilariously written chapters. The sleeve of the book has a picture of a pearl necklace and a knife. Possibly, this is a representation of Harper's life - a belle and a paladin. When you take off the sleeve, you find a dark brown book with golden lettering on the spine. Simple, yet beautiful design.

The writing.. It's very, very easy to read. It's modern. Packed with humour and very entertaining. It is like watching a good old 90's TV series. It's a mix between Buffy, The Vampire Slayer; Gossip Girl &  True Blood. Apart from the fact that there aren't any vampires & werewolves (yet?). Harper isn't a slayer, she a more fancier name - a Paladin. And she protects an Oracle - an ancient creature who can see the future. It's usual a girl, a virgin - but this again here is the twist. This Oracle is the geeky boy Harper disliked all her life. The witches call themselves Mages and they have only limited powers.  Throw in some hilarious conversations and situations and you got yourself a good recipe for a YA novel.

The story itself is a little bit bland and predictable. But it's very enjoyable to read. It is a different take on a part of greek mythology and french history. I do like reading various twists on important moments in history. And even though the story is predictable, it's very funny, exciting at times. It's like a comfortable blanket which wraps around you. Especially if you are a YA genre fan. It's a typical YA story. Not too short - just long enough. Great interaction between the two main characters, freshen up with great use of sarcasm, humour and modern times. I love that the story takes part in Alabama - the deep south of USA. The stereotypical town with it's tradition like Homecoming Dance, Cotillion, small town gossips... A nice and easy read for the warm summer nights. 

But you don't care too much about the characters. You don't go through an emotional roller coaster. You aren't as excited. It's more like a meal without any flavourings which would spice it up a little bit. And that is a great shame...

The characters are all very relatable and charming. I love the interactions. There is a lot of chemistry between Harper and David. And yes, from the first moment you know that even if those two do not like each other at the start, there are signs that these two actually supposed to be together. The bickering and kicking each other since kindergarten is a huge giveaway. But I do like that the author took time with their slowly developing relationship. There are some good twists too. One I can point out I like the most - Ryan becoming a Mage (SPOILER ALERT!! Sorry!!). The girl, the guy she really likes and makes her skin tingle, and the ex-boyfriend who are bound to be spend their lives together forever. Talk about awkward !!

All in all, this book was a typical YA novel. I would maybe categorise it for the early years of YA novel. It's not a complicated read. It isn't a thrilling novel you cannot put down. But it has some good points. It ticks all the boxes a good YA book should have. It wasn't my favourite, but I didn't hate it. For me, the best part of this tale are the dialogues between characters. The humour saved the story.

Rebel Belle is actually the first book in the series. I am now reading the second part - MISS MAYHEM. These two should be followed by the last instalment - LADY RENEGADES due to be released April 12th 2016.

So thank you Ms Hawkins, you have made me laugh out loud on many occasions whilst reading your book. I hope you keep up with the funny parts, just maybe develop the story a little more and better.

Lauren Oliver : VANISHING GIRLS

Warning! This book will surprise and leave you with you mouth wide opened!

VANISHING GIRLS is thrilling young adult novel written one of the most popular authors in the YA genre - Lauren Oliver.


Lauren Oliver is well known name in the YA genre. I own couple of books written by this author, so when I have found out that she publishing a new novel this year, I had to have it. I even took the opportunity of getting a signed book plate by her which I have received couple of months ago.


To be honest, at the start the story only intrigued me, but as I discovered later on,  this book turned out to be more than I expected.

*****

Dara and Nick used to be inseparable, but that was before - before Dara kissed Parker, before Nick lost him as her best friend, before the accident that left Dara's beautiful face scarred. Now the two sisters, who used to be so close, aren't speaking. In an instant, Nick lost everything and is determined to use the summer to get it all back.

But Dara has other plans. When she vanishes on her birthday, Nick thinks Dara is just playing around. But another girl has vanished, too - nine-year-old Madeline Snow - and as Nick pursues her sister, she becomes increasingly convoked that the two disappearances are linked.

*****

But before we get into the juicy stuff, let's talk about the edition first. I own the hardback published earlier this year. 322 pages long. The sleeve is created in light pastel colours. On the cover, there is a photograph, taken with the soft lens, of a young girl. We can just get the glimpse of her face and hair. The main book is light brown colour with metal blush pink lettering. It is a beautiful design. I really, really like it. 

The story is written from the point of Nick and Dara - before and after everything has changed. It's captivating. Beautifully written with the right sensitivity to the issue happening in Nick's life. It's thrilling. Exciting. So emotional. It is an un-put-down-able tale. I was glued to it straight from the start. 

The start was a little bit confusing and slow. But soon enough it picked up and it kept on intriguing me. There was just something... Something in this story didn't add up. I was missing a big part of it. Soon I started to have a little hunch. Just a thought... so I read on. I got more and more invested in this tale. And I didn't have to wait too long for the explosive twist in the story. My hunch has become true. I was right. But it still left me with my mouth wide opened. I am sorry for being quite secretive about it but I do not want to spoil it for you, which is really really hard as I just want to discuss it with you.

The book tells us about the straighten relationship between two sisters who used to be best friends - Nick and Dara. Nick is the oldest and has another best friends Parker and the trio got up to many mischiefs during last couple of years. But then Dara and Parker hooked up. And Nick has lost her place in the group. She has been left on the sidelines. And then the accident happened and Dara's and Nick's relationship became even more complicated. Nick moved away to her dad's home but after being caught skinny dipping, she has returned back home. Dara doesn't speak to her, the whole family is good in the non-talking-about-conflicts situation. But at least her summer job in the nearer family park gets her closer to Parker again. But then a little girl disappears, and the things get even more weird and complicated. Dara is still not talking to Nick, so Nick decides to give their relationship one last shot on Dara's birthday.

This book is so thrilling. It's a masterpiece. You get sucked in and won't let go. It really helps that the story is told from different points of view (or is it). The mystery is even more enhanced with the before and after chapters. It's mesmerising. 

One thing I have to say. I really really love that the author addressed some very major issues in this book. A tragedy. They way family copes with it. The straighter relationships within the family members. The complicated relationship between friends... Finding love. And of course the huge issue of psychological disorder like a multiply personality. It was absolutely amazing. She couldn't written the story better. She couldn't told Nick's tale in better, absolutely captivating way... 

I loved every page. I adore every chapter. I wasn't able to put the book down. I just had to find out what has happened and how the story ends. 

Thank you Ms Oliver. What a thrilling ride (pun intended - you will get it once you read the book). I just wish there would be more ... But that's a sign of well-written novel, if you want more after you finished with it. 

VANISHING GIRLS should be your next addition to your personal library. Happy reading! 

AUGUST READING CHALLENGE

Well Hello there my lovely readers!!

How's your summer going?!? I am having one of the best summer's yet! Not only I am sticking to my plan of getting into shape, but I am also going  a proud owner of a brand new bike. Vintage style and basket on the front! Yes, because I am that geeky - a girl needs a space for her books and a bottle of water, don't you think?!? Also, I had an absolutely wonderful time with my friends throughout my holidays - I was at my first ever car boot; I tried a wonderful tasty cake selection in a new coffee shop; I've learn more about food and my body; I fell in love with Miles Archer... and most importantly I laughed a lot.. 

But summer is not over yet, there is still plenty of wonderful things to try and see. And of course, there is a lot more books to read. 

Of course, that means that it is time for me to share with you my reading list of the beautiful and hopefully very sunny month of August. This time I am planning on reading 7 different stories - 9 books. And I cannot wait to share my thoughts on them with you. 

But enough talking and jabbering. Here is my TBR list for next 31 days. 

*****

AUGUST READING CHALLENGE

A LITTLE SOMETHING DIFFERENT by Sandy Hall

Fourteen Viewpoints. One Love story. 

Lea and Gabe are in the same creative writing class. They get the same pop culture references, order the same Chinese food, and hang out in the same places. Unfortunately, Lea is a little aloof, Gabe is shy, and it looks like they are never going to work things out. 

But something is happening between them, and everyone can see it. Their creative writing teacher pushes them together. The baristas at the local Starbucks watch their relationship like a TV series. The bus driver tells his wife about them. The waitress at the diner automatically seats them together. Even the squirrel who lives on the college green believes Lea and Gabe were meant to be together. 

THE HEIR by Kiera Cass

Princess Eadlyn has grown up hearing endless stories about how her mother and father met. Twenty years ago, America Singer entered the Selection and won the heart of Prince Maxon - and they lived happily ever after. 

Eadlyn doesn't expect her own story to end in romance - she has no interest in repeating the fairy tale. But a princess's life is never entirely her own - and Eadlyn cannot escape her won Selection, and one particular entry who may just capture her heart...

LET'S GET LOST by Adi Alsaid

One girl could change four lives forever...

Mysterious Leila, who is on the road trip of a lifetime, has a habit of crashing into people's worlds at the moment they need someone the most. 

There's Hudson, who is willing to throw away his dreams for love. And Bree, a runaway who seizes every Tuesday - and a few stolen goods along the way. Elliot, who believes in happy endings ... until his own goes off-script. And Sonia, who worries that she's lost her ability to love. 

Hudson, Bree, Elliot and Sonia find a friend in Leila. But Leila's trip could help her discover something bigger - that sometimes the only way to find what you're looking for is to get lost along the way...

RED QUEEN by Victoria Aveyard*

Power is a dangerous game. 

This is a world divided by blood - red or silver. 

Reds are commoners, ruled by a Silver elite in possession of god-like superpowers. And to Mare Barrow, a seventeen-year-old Red girl from the poverty-stricken Stilts, it seems like nothing will ever change. 

That is, until a twist of fate brings her before the Silver court. Here, surrounded by the people she hates the most, Mare discovers that despite her red blood, she possesses a deadly ability of her own. 
Fearful of Mare's potential, the king hides her in plain view: betrothed to his youngest son. Trapped, Mare decides to use her new position to bring down the regime - from the inside. 

But this is a game of betrayal and lies, and Mare has entered a dangerous dance - Reds against Silvers, prince against prince, and Mare against her own heart...

OPEN ROAD SUMMER by Emeri Lord

Two best friends... Two broken hearts.. One summer that will change everything. 

After breaking up with her bad-news boyfriend, Reagan O'Neill is ready to leave her rebellious ways behind. Her best friend, country superstar Dee Montgomery, is nursing a broken heart of her own. Fortunately, Dee's twenty-four-city tour is about to kick off, offering a perfect opportunity for a girls-only summer of breakup ballads and healing. 

But when Matt Finch joins the tour and its opening act, his boy-next-door charm proves difficult for Reagan to resist, despite her vow to live a drama-free existence. With miles to go before Reagan and Dee are ready to risk their hearts again, this summer will be one to remember. 

I'LL GIVE YOU SUN by Jandy Nelson 

Jude and her twin Noah are close until a tragedy drives them apart. Now they are barely speaking - and both falling for boys they can't have. Love's complicated. 

THE SUMMER SERIES by Jenny Han 

One girl. Two boys. And the summer that changed everything. 

THE SUMMER I TURNED PRETTY

Every year Isabel spends a perfect summer at her family friends' house. There's the swimming pool at night, the private stretch of beach - and the two boys. 

Conrad - unavailable, aloof - who she's been in love with forever. 

Jeremiah - friendly, relaxed - the only one who's ever really paid her any attention. 

But this year something is different. They seem to have noticed her for the first time. It's going to be an amazing summer... and one she'll never forget. 

WE'VE ALWAYS HAVE SUMMER

Just when she thought she had all the answers...

Isabel has only ever loved two boys, Conrad and Jeremiah Fisher. 

One broke her heart; the other made her happier that she ever thought she'd be. But each brother is keeping a secret, and this summer Isabel must choose between the Fisher boys, once and for all. Which brother will it be?

IT'S NOT SUMMER WITHOUT YOU 

When something is perfect, you hope it never ends...

Isabel's lazy, long hot summers at her family friends' beach house are over. 

Conrad - sexy and unavailable - is the only boy she's ever loved. He's left for college, taking her heart with him. Jeremiah, his gorgeous brother, is still Isabel's best friend - but maybe friendship isn't enough for him any more... 

Isabel just wants everything to stay the same, because change means moving on. But if she stops looking back, will she find a future she never knew she wanted? 

*****

So what do you think? Are you ready to face the new adventures? I cannot wait to bite into these 7 new stories! Summer is in its full bloom ! I cannot wait to take these books with me, bike to a park and enjoy the read! What's on your TBR list this month? 

*ZCBookClub is back this month as well. This time we have let the readers to decide what they want to read!! And this is their choice! Are you going to join us in the read-along? Don't forget to use the hashtag #ZCbookclub and follow our new account @ZCbookclub :)