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.

Zoe Sugg : GIRL ONLINE

Warning!! Just because you put a famous name on the book, it doesn't make it a GOOD book.

GIRL ONLINE is a debut novel by the very british and very famous vlogger Zoe Sugg aka Zoella. Her beauty, fashion and lifestyle vlogs have gained her millions of YouTube subscribers, with even more viewing the vlog every month. So she has decided to go on a new adventure - writing stories for  her audience.

And of course, I had to find out for myself if her attempt of becoming a writer has been successful. When contemporary YA is involved, I am there!

*****

Penny has a secret.

Under the alias Girl Online, Penny blogs her hidden feelings about friendship, boys, her crazy family and the panic attacks that have begun to take over her life. When things go from bad to worse, her family whisks her away to New York, where she meets Noah: a gorgeous, guitar-strumming American. Suddenly Penny is falling in love - and capturing every moment of it on her blog.

But Noah has a secret too. One that threatens to ruin Penny's cover - and her closest friendship - forever.

*****

Let's talk about the edition first. I own the hardback published in 2014. It's a blue book with pictures on the cover and a big red title of the book. Modern. Simple. But I do like it. 344 pages divided into 44 chapters. A quick and easy read.

Now the writing... Firstly, let me point out how disappointed I was when I learned a big juicy secret.  It seems that Zoe actually has not written the book herself. The story line and the characters are her idea, but the whole writing of the story it's not. And the way she was going about it - putting her name on the book, writing a big thank you note on how she stayed up all night writing.. - that all made me angry when I found out that she hasn't actually written the book. Shadow-writing is not something I am a fan of. Period. There is so many talented authors and young writers out there who have an idea and wrote a great story and didn't have enough credit for it. But someone like Zoe just puts her name on a book she even didn't write and it becomes an instant best-seller... I am not sure where the literally world is going if this would continue. Rant over.

Now, let's talk about the writing. It was easy to read. Relate able. Funny at times. But at the same time I felt like the quirkiness of the main character was forced. The so called embarrassing  situations were too boring and too predictable. Actually, the whole story was like a bad take on cinderella story. It's more like a  Cinderella story has gone from bad to worse.  

A girl starts a blog. She becomes famous overnight. But she is shy in real life and has plenty of mortifyingly embarrassing situations under her belt. When she hits a rock bottom a miracle happens and her parents whisk her off to New York, where everyone praises her photographic abilities. She meets a boy who turns out to be a rock star. Really?!?! Could you be even more predictable? 

Anyways, there are some good points to the story. I know, I am surprised myself. But I do like the fact that the book addresses the issue of panic attacks. There are so many young people out there who are struggling with this issue. And not many know what are they going through or how to cope with them. So I am very happy that the author ( and hopefully this was one of Zoe's ideas too) decided to share the experience with the readers and give them a deeper glimpse into this problem.

So all in all... This is a book with too predictable development. It is very easy to read so if you fancy a quick read which won't make your head hurts, you have the right one for your list.

I am so sorry Zoe, but your book failed to impress me. 

Jennifer E. Smith : THE GEOGRAPHY OF YOU AND ME

Warning! Losing hope in love and faith? Read this book and your world be bright again!

THE GEOGRAPHY OF YOU AND ME is a contemporary YA love story written by lovely and very, very talented Jennifer E. Smith.


I love Jennifer's writing. Every single story I have read so far, I have fallen in love with straight from the start. And this one wasn't any different.

*****

Owen lives in the basement. Lucy lives on the 24th floor. But when the power goes out in the midst of a New York heatwave, they find themselves together for the first time: stuck in a lift between the 10th and 11th floors. As they await help, they start talking...

The brief time they spend together leaves a mark. And as their lives take them to Edinburgh and San Francisco, to Prague and to Portland they can't shake the memory of the time they shared. Postcards cross the globe when they themselves can't, as Owen and Lucy experience the joy - and pain - of first love.

And as they make their separate journeys in search of home, they discover that sometimes it is a person rather than a place that anchors you most in the world.

*****

Firstly, let's have a look at the edition first. Paperback. 337 pages divided into 51 chapters. Black & White photograph of Lucy & Owen on the background of New York. There is a splash of blue stars and the title is written in large writing. I love how all the books the author wrote tie together. They have similar design, which always goes down well with me. Well done to the graphic team behind the books.


The writing is wonderful as usual. Easy to read. Very relate able. Modern. Funny at times. Packed with emotions which makes you fall in love with straight from the first page. The story is divided into 5 parts ( HERE; THERE; EVERYWHERE; SOMEWHERE; HOME ) and it is told from both main characters points of view.

Now, let's have a little chat about the story itself. I absolutely adore love-stories written by Smith's pen. Every single one of them captured my heart. And this one is no different. Love at first sight - love at first blackout. A friendship which has formed in dark New York City. A friendship which left a mark on both participants. They formed an unbreakable bond which turned into love. Love so deep that it survived the distance and time...


I love how Smith incorporated travelling into different cities around the world. And she brought back postcards. How I love the art of sending postcards. Bring back letters and postcards!!


Owen is a great male character. He puts the needs of his father before his own. He is sensitive, smart and a very good person. He is polite and treats people right. Lucy is a beautiful girl who is alone most of her time. And then she meets Owen and she finds her soulmate - a new friend who she wants to share her life and adventures with. But the life isn't as simple as we want. And this is a love-story so of course, there would be some barriers put into their way before they find their happiness.

And it wouldn't be a Smith's book if it doesn't end with open ending. A room for future developments.

So well done Ms Smith, you have wrote another beautiful love story which has become a permanent part of my library.

Laura Jarratt : LOUDER THAN WORDS

Warning! If you are expecting a cheesy story, you are wrong. I was myself. This book is more than meets the eye.

LOUDER THAN WORDS is a second book I have read from the pen and mind of Laura Jarratt. It's a contemporary YA novel which manages to surprise you in the most unexpected way.


The first ever novel I have read from Ms Jarratt was Skin Deep. This book was so unusual and I enjoyed it so much, that I have immediately purchased the whole collection of books from this author. And Louder Than Words was one of these books.


To be honest, at the start I was not that impressed with the synopsis, but as I read on I have realised that there is more to this book... So I kept on reading to see if I was wrong.. Turns out I wasn't.

*****

Rafi hasn't spoken for eight years. It's up to her to tell her brother's story now that he can't speak either ...

Rafi idolises her seventeen-year-old brother, who is popular, generous and a borderline genius. Ever protective, Silas always includes her when he's with his friends, so Rafi gets to hear all sorts of things that younger sisters wouldn't normally be a part of. Like the time Silas hacks a gaming site to help out his friend Josie, who has been trashed by her ex.

With Josie, Rafi finds herself with a proper friend for the first time in her life. As they grow closer, she realises that she wants to find a way back into the world – she wants to learn to speak again. But Silas has found a new interest too – and it’s taking him away from everything that was once important to him. Can Rafi find the words to save her brother?

*****

So let's talk about the edition first. Paperback. 403 pages long divided into 59 chapters. Each chapter begins with a quote either from Josie's Pinterest Wall or Rafi's Truth Wall. On the front cover is a picture of a girl with bright blue eyes who can see all of your secrets. I assume this is Rafi. A little bit of a boring design, but it serves the purpose. 

The writing is easy to read. Modern. Sad at times. But funny at times too. It's quite relate able of many people of different generations. 


Let me tell how intrigued I was with the idea of the book written from the point of view of someone who doesn't speak. I wasn't sure how it would work, but once I start reading and found out that the book actually written from various points of view I was pleasantly surprised. I thought it would the predictable story. Girl can't talk. She meets a boy or a new friend and through the friendship her confidence rises and she will start talking. But I was wrong. This tale is so much more. 


Firstly I wasn't expecting the story take a turn to riots and anarchy. I am not sure if this story was inspired by events in UK and London couple years ago, but it definitely made the book stand out. It was interesting to have a glimpse into that world and how Silas got sucked into it. I wasn't a fan of Lara straight from the start, but as I read on I hated her even more. That girl was kind of brainwashed and ruthless. I think she thought she means well, but didn't take the right approach. And Silas was a like puppy dog in love. Now Rafi and Josie's friendship was so sweet. I love how easy going and tender it was at times. They have complimented each other. Rafi, the girl with progressing muteism.. And Josie, who has the gift of the gap. She cannot stop talking. But the best part of the story was the beautiful and sweet relationship between Rafi and Silas. The level of how much they care for each other was touchily heartbreaking. We all should have the same relationship with our siblings. 


So thank  you Ms Jarratt. At the beginning I was not sure about your story if I am being frank. The blur on the back of the book doesn't give it justice. But as I kept on reading, I have grown to fall in love with the originality of this story. And I loved that this wasn't a love story. It wasn't a story where boy meets a girl, they go through a roller coaster ride of life and everything will work out.. everything would all lovey dovey. This is a different story of love. It's a story of right and wrong. It's a story of friendship. And this is why I did enjoy the novel at the end. 

So well done. You have wrote a unique story for the YA genre I think every one should read at least once. 

Robyn Schneider : THE BEGINNING OF EVERYTHING

Warning! Are you ready for a different approach to coming-of-age novels? Good. Because this book is exactly what you are looking for.

THE BEGINNING OF EVERYTHING is a contemporary YA novel written by the lovely and very talented Robyn Schneider.


This book has created a lot of buzz in the book lover's sphere straight after it has been published. I have been meaning to read it for quite some time, but an opportunity has arrived in the form of mine and Carpe Librum Girl's monthly book club on Instagram - ZC Book Club*. So I have finally found out what is this well known novel is about.

*****

Golden boy Ezra Faulkner believes everyone has a tragedy waiting for them—a single encounter after which everything that really matters will happen. His particular tragedy waited until he was primed to lose it all: in one spectacular night, a reckless driver shatters Ezra’s knee, his athletic career, and his social life.

No longer a front-runner for Homecoming King, Ezra finds himself at the table of misfits, where he encounters new girl Cassidy Thorpe. Cassidy is unlike anyone Ezra’s ever met, achingly effortless, fiercely intelligent, and determined to bring Ezra along on her endless adventures.

But as Ezra dives into his new studies, new friendships, and new love, he learns that some people, like books, are easy to misread. And now he must consider: if one’s singular tragedy has already hit and everything after it has mattered quite a bit, what happens when more misfortune strikes? 

*****

Let's talk about the wonderful edition first. I own the paperback published in July 2014 by Katherine Tegan Books. 335 pages long divided into 33 chapters. The edition has a beautiful and eye-catching blue and black design. Bold lettering announcing the title of the book. There is a little drawing of a ride in amusement park which I think symbolises the roller-coaster ride which a life can be. Simple design, but very effective. 

The story is written from Ezra's point of view. The writing is engaging. Modern. Funny. Sarcastic at times. But very relate able. It draws you in and won't let go. I think this book is one of the exceptions when I do actually enjoy reading a story from a boy/man's point of view. Possibly this is due to the fact that this novel can be categorised as a coming-of-age story. 

It's about change when you least expected and faith guiding you to your planned destiny. Ezra thought that he had it all planned out. He was popular. Had a good prospect on becoming a well-know athlete. He had the girl every one wanted. But then an accident happened and Ezra was forced to re-valuate the important things in life. And that is what is important in this novel. No, it's not a love story. If you are after a love story with happy ending where everyone ends up with the person they want to be, put the book down. This book is different. A Unique view into the life of a teenager on the point when he is becoming an adult. And happy ending isn't guaranteed. Let's just say that Cassidy has bigger issues than Ezra...  This is  a tale of friendship and becoming a person you have always meant to be. It's about faith screwing everything which is normal to you, turning your life upside down... throwing new great experiences and showing you that the life is worth living not just surviving. You don't have to do what is expected of you. You don't need to be what your parents want you to be. You can be anyone. You can do anything. Don't let them stop you! Make the most of what is given to you. Even if it's a stupid accident which shattered your knee and you cannot chase a ball with a racket anymore (apparently they call it tennis !!). It's about the people in your life. The ones who support you no matter what. They don't judge. They don't try to bring you down. They harness the light and life inside you. 


So yes, I have enjoyed Ezra's story. Even though he got his heart broken. He got he best friend back and brand new life full of possibilities. 

Thank you Robyn. I admired your story from start to finish. It's been a pleasant read and made me think of a lot of things in my life. 

*Find out more about ZC Book Club by following this link : #ZCbookclub

Jennifer Niven : ALL THE BRIGHT PLACES

Warning! This story will brake your heart!

ALL THE BRIGHT PLACES is a contemporary YA novel written by the very talented Jennifer Niven.


I have come across this novel earlier this year. There was a lot of buzz about it the book bloggers and book reviewers' world. At first I couldn't understand why, but after reading this book, I couldn't do anything else but sing praises about the story and the author's incredible story-telling.

*****

Theodore Finch wants to take his own life. Violet Markey is devastated by her sister's death. They meet on the ledge of the school bell tower, and so their story begins. It's only together they can be themselves... But, as Violet's world grows, Finch's begins to shrink. How far will Violet go to save the boy she has come to love?

*****

Let's talk about the beautiful edition first. Paperback. 378 pages long. Sky-blue coloured background with post-it notes. The pictures of post-it notes are raised slightly, so you can touch them when handling the book. 

The story is written from the point of view of both main characters - Violet's & Finch's. And you all know how much I enjoy when the story is told from different points of view. It makes it more original. More interesting. And definitely more put-down-able.

The writing is engaging. Modern. Packed with pop culture references which are part of everyone's life. Not to mentioned, that the whole story is very relate able. At the same time, this book is packed with so much sadness.




The story... well.. let me first mention how brave the author is... How original and unique her story is... Ms Niven is afraid of writing about the saddest thing in the world.. A human being.. A person thinking about taking their own life. This story is heart-shattering. Heart-breaking. Unique. Wonderful. Mesmerising. A true original in the YA genre. I was hooked to it from the first page. Finch & Violet's story is un-put-down-able. You will start reading it and it gets under your skin. It will be the only thing you will be able to think about. You will want to find out more. You will hope. You will hold your breathe and wish for a miracle - a happy ending. And you will cry. You will cry crocodile tears. For a moment, I had to put down the book. I had to take a break from reading it and put my heart back together. This book isn't like any others. This is a book which will leave a mark on you. It is one of those books you will recommend everyone to read. It's life-changing. It opens your heart and mind to this you previously thought won't matter to you. It would never happen to you. But the author has opened the door and now you will want to know more.

What a brave thing to bring Bipolar disorder into the story. I can honestly say that this is the first book I have read which touches upon this subject. And it describes in the way that everyone can understand what these unfortunate souls go through. It shows you the mood swings, the always present thought of committing suicide, the walls closing on you feeling... You will finally understand what these people feel... And it changes your life. It changes the way you live your life.. It will make you want to seize the day and live it. Because you never know which day will be your last.. 'LIVE. LAUGH. LOVE.' Will become your motto.



The two main characters in this story are so relate able. You cannot help but love them both so much. Violet who went through the unfortunately tragedy of losing her sister. She is in so much pain when she meets Finch. The world is grey. There is no sunshine for her. But then she meets this boy who forces her to start living her life. He reminds how beautiful living can be. He expands her world. And he falls in love with and she falls in love with him. Deeply. Passionately. With the whole heart and soul. But as Violet's world is getting more brighter, more sunnier, Finch's world starts to shrink. He is in such a dark place. Will Violet manage to save the boy she loves?



Thank you, Ms Niven. Thank you with all my heart and soul for writing this books. It opened my mind and soul to things I didn't dare to think of before - young people taking their own lives, bipolar disorder, the pain when losing someone who we loved dearly. Thank for shining the light upon this subject and make it more visible. Your story is one of a kind and it should be a permanent fixture in everyone's library.

You have wrote a masterpiece.

Jennifer E. Smith : HAPPY AGAIN

HAPPY AGAIN is a short novella accompanying one of my favourite books I have had the pleasure to read this year - THIS IS WHAT HAPPY LOOKS LIKE - written by one of my absolute favourite writers JENNIFER E. SMITH.

I have absolutely loved THIS IS WHAT HAPPY LOOKS LIKE. Every single page was a pure perfection. It melted my heart and brought a little bit of hope for romance into my life. But Ellie & Graham's story was left opened for more.

So the lovely Jennifer decided to write a short novella. A quick story to bring back the characters and hopefully bring a happy ending to their story. 

It was beautiful. Romantic. Emotional. I have loved every single page and my only wish is that there would more... I really hope that the author decides to write more from their love story. Jennifer left it open for more. So fingers crossed, there will be more to come in the future.

Jandy Nelson: THE SKY IS EVERYWHERE

Warning : Prepare your Kleenex! It will be needed! This book will make you cry crocodile tears!

THE SKY IS EVERYWHERE is a debut novel by the lovely and very talented Jandy Nelson. This book was firstly published in 2010 and it became an instant best-seller. So many book reviewers and book critics fell in love with this book instantly.

And I was no different. I picked this book only couple of weeks ago. I stumbled on it while browsing through Leeds' Waterstones. And after reading the blur on the back, I had to have in my collection.

*****

Lennie Walker, seventeen, Wuthering Heights obsessed, clarinet player, band geek. Also hopeless romantic, prone to scattering pose all over town and as of four weeks ago, sister less....

*****

Do you see why I couldn't put it down back on the shelf?

But let's start from the beginning. The first thing which brought the book to my attention was the edition itself. I bought the newest edition of this book - only published this year. This edition is designed to catch your attention. Firstly, it's blue. The whole book is blue. Even the spine and the pages are dyed blue (And you know how much I love when the publishers dyed the pages!). White writing which makes a contrast to the blue, announces the title and beautifully compliments the design. 313 pages divided into 38 chapters. Almost every chapters is accompanied by a poem written by Lennie. What a beautiful touch. It makes the book more original and helps you to connect with Lennie and her story even more. I have to say - well done the graphic team behind this edition. A job well done!


The writing is so mesmerising and original that you can't help but fall in love with the story straight from the first page. It's relate able, easy to read and very modern. You won't even realise it and soon enough you will not be able to put the book down. It gets under your skin.

The story itself is a beautiful, heart-shattering tale of love and loss. Its uniqueness is compelling. The heartbreak Lennie has to go through will leave you in tears. Her pain will become your pain. Her tears and confusion will become your tears and confusion. All the way through you will keep on thinking and making ideas of how would you react to a tragedy like hers. What would you do if you lose the person you love the most? And how would you deal with the fact then in the middle of grieving you start to fall in love?


Every single chapter... every single page is a pure perfection. 


Lennie is just a girl who is in so much pain after her sister's death. She is confused. She is hurting. She doesn't know how to cope with life without her best friend. And this boy comes along and she is finding herself falling in love. Deeply. And Joe.. Well he is just dreamy gorgeous boy who helps Lennie to move on from her pain.

That brings me to conclusion about this book. If you haven't guessed yet, I really really really liked this story. It's one of those stories which will leave a mark on you and it will change you. So thank you Ms Nelson for writing this story!It was a beautiful ride. 

John Green : PAPER TOWNS

Warning! Prepare yourself to catch a travelling fever!

PAPER TOWNS is a contemporary YA novel written by the king of contemporary young adult genre himself. . He melted the hearts all over the world with his amazing, but heart-shattering novel The Fault in Our Stars and now I am reaching for another story from his pen. Yes, I am talking about the one and only - MR JOHN GREEN.


I have a whole collection of John Green's novel. As a big fan of the YA genre, I am kinda required to own his full collection, otherwise I wouldn't be able to call myself a YA reader. So far, I've read Let It Snow, The Fault in Our Starts & The Abundance of Katherines. I have been meaning to read Paper Towns for quite some time, but the release of the film adaptation is coming closer, the trailer has been finally posted online for the world to see, so I have decided to give up and finally find out what is this story about.

*****

'The thing about Margo Roth Spiegelman is that really all I could ever do was let her talk, and then when she stopped talking encourage her to go on, due to the facts that 1. I was incontestably in love with her, and 2. She was absolutely unprecedented in every way, and 3. she never really asked me any questions...'

Quentin Jacobson has always loved Margo from afar. So when she climbs through his window to summon him on all-night road trip of revenge he cannot help but follow. But the next morning, Q turns up at school and Margo doesn't. She's left clues to her disappearance, like a trail of breadcrumbs for Q to follow. And everything leads to one unavoidable question: WHO IS THE REAL MARGO?

*****

Firstly, let's talk about the edition of the book. I own the paperback edition published in 2013. 305 pages, divided into 3 parts : THE STRINGS, THE GRASS & THE VESSEL. The cover of the book has an illustration of Orlando in black and white on a dark blue background. Red writing announcing the title of the book - PAPER TOWNS. Beautiful and mesmerising.

The writing is very modern, easy to read, entertaining and very relate able. I was hooked on the story straight from the first page. I really liked the fact that the story was written from Q's point of view. It was one of the first books from a guy's point of view I truly enjoy reading. I even managed to empathised with him. Or maybe, on some levels, I even found a little bits of me in him. Another fact I have enjoyed was how the story was divided into 3 different parts.


THE STRINGS introduces us to the relationship between Margo and Q. I love the crazy night these two spent together. The daring things they did together are inspiring. And adventurous. It is one of those nights which will change your life forever. THE GRASS then describes the story after Margo disappears and Q's frantic,  looking for clues she left for him. And that takes us to THE VESSEL. 24 hours drive to a literary town with one inhabitant - Margo. The story is different to other I have read. I love how while Quentin is searching for Margo, he starts to find himself. What he really wants and who he truly is. It's a beautiful love story with an ending I truly did not expect.

Margo is one of the most complicated characters I have ever managed to meet. She is an introverted explorer who doesn't really want to show the world who she truly is. She is desperate for some attention from the people who supposed to love her - her parents. And Q? Quentin is a hopeless romantic who fell in love with the wrong girl. She is too different. They have nothing in common. They are not meant to be. But that doesn't stop him to look for her. He doesn't lose hope and he still wants her back with him. Maybe this time, it will be different. Maybe she realises how much he truly loves her. Their relationship is complicated. They haven't talk at all in recent years. But when a chance to spend night with the girl he loves arises, he grabs it with both hands. And when the girl leaves him, he does everything he can to find her and bring her back. That's how strong his love is.


All in all, I enjoyed reading the story. I think I even prefer to The Fault in Our Stars. Yes, TFIOS was heart-breaking and unique, but this story was closer to my heart. Because we all, at certain point in our lives, are trying to find out who we truly are and what makes us happy. And that is the reason why I love this story that little bit more.

So thank you Mr Green for this wonderful story, I cannot wait to see on the big screen. But in the meantime, at least here is a little preview before the film adaptation of the book comes out. Here over the pond in UK we have to wait a little longer that our American friends. PAPER TOWNS is due to be released on August 21st 2015.

APRIL READING CHALLENGE

HAPPY APRIL EVERYONE!!

I cannot believe, but the fourth month, April, of 2015 is already here!! Time flies when you are having fun. And fun I have been having!! I have been reading so many wonderful stories! And the best part? There is more of them to come this month. 

Not only, I have a great TBR LIST prepared for you and me (and this month it's all about the colour blue!), but I am finally acting upon another New Year's Resolution of mine - I have some trips abroad planned and I cannot wait to take my books and iPhone with so I can share with you all the wonderful adventures. 

But, let's stop talking. Let's start reading! Here is this month's TBR list and it's packed with wonderful stories. 7 stories. 7 new adventures. I CAN'T WAIT !!! 

*****

APRIL READING CHALLENGE 

PAPER TOWNS by John Green

The thing about Margo Roth Spiegelman is that really all I could ever do was let her talk, and then when she stopped talking encourage her to go on, due to the facts that 1. I was incontestably in love with her, 2. She was absolutely unprecedented in every way, and 3. She never really asked me any questions...

Quentin Jacobson has always loved Margo from afar. So when she climbs through his window to summon him on an all-night road trip of revenge he cannot help but follow. But the next morning, Q turns up at school and Margo doesn't. She's left clues to her disappearance, like a trail of breadcrumbs for Q to follow. And everything leads to one unavoidable question : WHO IS THE REAL MARGO?

THE SKY IS EVERYWHERE by Jandy Nelson

I'm supposed to be grieving, not falling in love...

Lennie Walker, seventeen, Wuthering Heights obsessed, clarinet player, bank geek. Also hopeless romantic, prone to scattering poems all over town and as of four weeks ago, sister less ... 

A heart-breaking, heart-lifting, utterly compelling and completely unforgettable novel about first love and first loss. 

ALL THE BRIGHT PLACES by Jennifer Niven

Theodore Finch wants to take his own life. Violet Markey is devastated by her sister's death. They meet on the ledge of the school bell tower, and so their story begins. It's only together they can be themselves... But, as Violet's world grows, Finch's begins to shrink. How far will Violet go to save the boy she has come to love?

LOUDER THAN WORDS by Laura Jarratt

I can't speak the truth, but I can write it. Words on a page... they're beautiful, powerful. Words in my mouth... They don't work. They choke up inside me and won't come out. My pen has a freedom my mouth has never had. The last person I spoke to was my brother, Silas, and I was six. Since then, not a word. Silas says he'd give anything to hear me speak again. Now I sit here and think the same thing about him. 

THE BEGINNING OF EVERYTHING by Robyn Schneider 

Ezra Faulkner was supposed to be homecoming king, but that was before - before his girlfriend cheated on him, before a card accident shattered his leg, and before he fell in love with new girl Cassidy Thorpe. 

THE GEOGRAPHY OF YOU AND ME by Jennifer E. Smith

Owen lives in the basement. Lucy lives on the 24th floor. But when the power goes out in the midst of a New York heatwave, they find themselves together for the first time: stuck in a lift between the 10th and 11th floors. As they await help, they start talking... The brief time they spend together leaves a mark. And as their lives take them to Edinburgh and San Francisco, to Prague and to Portland they can't shake the memory of the time they shared. Postcards cross the globe when they themselves can't, as Owen and Lucy experience the joy - and pain - of first love. And as they make their separate journeys in search of home, they discover that sometimes it is a person rather than a place that anchors you most in the world. 

GIRL ONLINE by Zoe Sugg

Penny has a secret. Under the alias Girl Online, penny blogs her hidden feelings about friendship, boys, her crazy family and the panic attacks that have begun to take over her life. When things go from bad to worse, her family whisks her away to New York, where she meets Noah: a gorgeous, guitar-strumming American. Suddenly Penny is falling in love - and capturing every moment of it on her blog. But Noah has a secret too. One that threatens to ruin Penny's cover - and her closest friendship - forever. 


*****


What is on your TBR list this month? Let me know, maybe I get inspired for my future readings !! Have a great April everyone!! xoxo