Book Review: This Shattered World by Amie Kaufman & Megan Spooner

Series: Starbound Trilogy Book #2

Format: ebook

Rating: 4 Stars

How I Got It: Borrowed from the Library

Genre: Young Adult, Sci-Fi

Publisher: Disney Hyperion

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

Jubilee Chase and Flynn Cormac should never have met.

Lee is captain of the forces sent to Avon to crush the terraformed planet's rebellious colonists, but she has her own reasons for hating the insurgents.

Rebellion is in Flynn's blood. Terraforming corporations make their fortune by recruiting colonists to make the inhospitable planets livable, with the promise of a better life for their children. But they never fulfilled their promise on Avon, and decades later, Flynn is leading the rebellion.

Desperate for any advantage in a bloody and unrelentingly war, Flynn does the only thing that makes sense when he and Lee cross paths: he returns to base with her as prisoner. But as his fellow rebels prepare to execute this tough-talking girl with nerves of steel, Flynn makes another choice that will change him forever. He and Lee escape the rebel base together, caught between two sides of a senseless war.

Review

Just like the first book in the series, this book was a pleasant surprise. I don't know why I assume it won't be good. And the covers are just beautiful. I had to give in and buy physical copies.

Both Lee and Flynn were interesting characters to read about. Lee is very soldier-like and competent. You don't always get competence porn in YA and I'm here for it. Flynn's passion for his people and planet is endearing. They kind of occupy the opposite traditional gender roles. And I really enjoyed how they impacted each other.

This story gave me real Firefly vibe. That isn't a problem, because terraformed planets and shady corporations are pretty standard in sci-fi. I liked the inclusion of Irish (and Chinese) culture/language. I'm particularly a sucker for all things Irish. 

I'm really interested in this world and the overall story. I honestly have no idea where it's going and what a resolution will be.

Oh, and I did like returning to characters form the first book. Although it has been a few years since I read it so I didn't remember a lot. I am very thankful for Recaptains.

Thanks for reading!

Holly

Review: Winter by Marissa Meyer

Series: The Lunar Chronicles Book #4

Format: Hardcover

Pages: 827

Rating: 4 Stars

How I Got It: Christmas Gift

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Sci-Fi

Publisher: Feiwel & Friends

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

Princess Winter is admired by the Lunar people for her grace and kindness, and despite the scars that mark her face, her beauty is said to be even more breathtaking than that of her stepmother, Queen Levana.

Winter despises her stepmother, and knows Levana won't approve of her feelings for her childhood friend--the handsome palace guard, Jacin. But Winter isn't as weak as Levana believes her to be and she's been undermining her stepmother's wishes for years. Together with the cyborg mechanic, Cinder, and her allies, Winter might even have the power to launch a revolution and win a war that's been raging for far too long.

Can Cinder, Scarlet, Cress, and Winter defeat Levana and find their happily ever afters? Fans will not want to miss this thrilling conclusion to Marissa Meyer's national bestselling Lunar Chronicles series.

Review

I only put off reading this for at least a year. It was a good conclusion, but a little long and drawn out for me. Seeing all of the characters come together was fun. And it did make me want to re-read the other books which is always a good sign.

I thought I remembered hearing people say they didn't like Winter as a character. I really enjoyed her and would've like more about her and Lunar sickness. Oh, Jacin, too. I want more development/information about him.

The big surprise for me was Iko and Scarlet. I remember being an Iko fan before, but she is definitely my favorite now. I could just read about her doing anything. Scarlet was never my favorite, but she really became interesting in this one. I especially liked her relationship and interactions with Winter.

Cinder had some America Singer moments here. She made some irrational and emotional decisions that hurt the "revolution". There's just only so many times that can be a source of conflict for me.

Overall, I'm happy with this series and would read it again.

Thanks for reading!

Holly

Review: Murder of Crows by Anne Bishop

Series: The Others Book #2

Format: ebook

Rating: 5 Stars

How I Got It: Borrowed from Library (Overdrive)

Genre: Fantasy, Sci-Fi

Publisher:  Roc

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

After winning the trust of the terra indigene residing in the Lakeside Courtyard, Meg Corbyn has had trouble figuring out what it means to live among them. As a human, Meg should be barely tolerated prey, but her abilities as a cassandra sangue make her something more.

The appearance of two addictive drugs has sparked violence between the humans and the Others, resulting in the murder of both species in nearby cities. So when Meg has a dream about blood and black feathers in the snow, Simon Wolfgard - Lakeside’s shape-shifting leader - wonders if their blood prophet dreamed of a past attack or a future threat.

As the urge to speak prophecies strikes Meg more frequently, trouble finds its way inside the Courtyard. Now, the Others and the handful of humans residing there must work together to stop the man bent on reclaiming their blood prophet - and stop the danger that threatens to destroy them all.

 

Review

Holy crap! I haven’t read a book in one sitting in a long time. Like I got up to go to the bathroom while reading this and was actually annoyed by it. The first book slowly worked it’s way under my skin while this one immediately sucked me in and wouldn’t let go.

This book is an excellent example of how to write tension. My favorite-and probably the most minor-is the sexual tension because I love romance. Then there’s the general tension and unrest in the world. It kept me engaged and on the edge of my seat but didn’t stress me out. Sometimes books are too tense and they make me feel like I’m going to have a panic attack which is too much and I don’t like.

First, let’s discuss issues. Well, there’s one: There isn’t enough Sam. OK, that isn’t a real issue but he’s so cute. And I love his relationship with Meg. But there’s so much going on and sacrifices have to be made.

The world building became even stronger in this one. More characters and information was introduced. I feel like I learned more about the different “Others” both as a whole and individuals. Plus, we got to explore more about how the world is set up and different countries/continents. Then, there’s the information that was provided about the Blood Prophets.

I have to talk about the romance or budding romance. In the first book, I thought there would be a romance but I didn’t know if I was just delusional. But this time it was thrown in my face. But I feel like it’s going to be soooooooooo slow. I felt like I was getting book blue-balls because I just wanted them to kiss.

I’m amazed by how much happened in this book. The big climactic moment I knew would happen, but I figured it would be a few books down the line. So, I have no idea what’s going to happen next. I am certainly excited to find out soon. I just have to wait on another library hold. 

Thanks for reading!

Holly

Review: Written in Red by Anne Bishop

Series: The Others Book #1
Format: Ebook
Rating: 4 Stars
How I Got It: Borrowed from the Library (Overdrive)
Genre: Fantasy, Sci-Fi
Publisher: Roc

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

As a cassandra sangue, or blood prophet, Meg Corbyn can see the future when her skin is cut—a gift that feels more like a curse. Meg’s Controller keeps her enslaved so he can have full access to her visions. But when she escapes, the only safe place Meg can hide is at the Lakeside Courtyard—a business district operated by the Others.

Shape-shifter Simon Wolfgard is reluctant to hire the stranger who inquires about the Human Liaison job. First, he senses she’s keeping a secret, and second, she doesn’t smell like human prey. Yet a stronger instinct propels him to give Meg the job. And when he learns the truth about Meg and that she’s wanted by the government, he’ll have to decide if she’s worth the fight between humans and the Others that will surely follow.

Review

That was a book! I have no idea how to review this but feel like I need to write something. This is often the issue for me when it comes to sci-fi and fantasy.

This book slowly and methodically made its way under my skin. I don't think that's ever happened before. But I got really invested in all these characters. I think it's because I was often confused. Ms. Bishop would slowly let out information so I just wanted to get more and more answers.

I'm still wrapping my head around the world, characters, and creatures. But I like that. Done well-like here-it creates a three-dimensional and realistic world.

I do want to talk about the "creatures." So many of them I've seen before, but they are just different enough. The Wolves are a perfect example of this. Oftentimes, they are romanticized. That's even made fun of in the story. But they are actually very animalistic and just because they can look like people doesn't mean they are humans. I appreciate this twist.

This "review" needs to end because it makes me want to read the next one and I'm on a waitlist for it!

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Review: Honor's Knight by Rachel Bach

Series: Paradox Book #2
Format: Trade Paperback
Pages: 358
Rating: 5 Stars
How I Got It: Borrowed from Library
Genre: Sci-Fi, Futuristic, Space Opera
Publisher: Orbit

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

 

After a mysterious attack left her short several memories and one partner, she's determined to keep her head down, do her job, and get on with her life. But even though Devi's not actually looking for it -- trouble keeps finding her. She sees things no one else can, the black stain on her hands is growing, and she is entangled with the cook she's supposed to hate.

But when a deadly crisis exposes far more of the truth than she bargained for, Devi discovers there's worse fates than being shot, and sometimes the only people you can trust are the ones who want you dead.

Review

Why did I double you Rachel Bach? I was such a gool. For the first 100-150 pages I wasn't sure about what I was reading. But then she pulled it together. I'm still incredibly confused, but I completely trust Ms. Bach. And even that rough bit works for me now.

For the last two-thirds I couldn't put this down. All I wanted to do was read this. I was incredibly emotionally invested. And not just Devi-I care about Nova, Rupert, Rashid. And the story was paced well and had me on the edge of my seat. I don't often feel this way when reading a book written in first person.

The stakes were definitely raised in this one-for Devi and the world. Ms. Bach also expanded on her already fantastically built world. This whole story just comes alive in my mind. That's how great of a writer she is. She also does that thing I simultaneously love and hate: a lot of my questions were answered, but now I have even more. Some of them probably aren't even important, but I can't help but think every single word is meticulously crafted.

My biggest random question: Who is Nic and Nova's father? For some reason I can't help, but think this is an important thing. But there's so much left to explore.

Must pick up the next book now.

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Review: Fortune's Pawn by Rachel Bach

Series: Paradox Book #1
Format: Trade Paperback
Pages: 320
Rating: 4 Stars
How I Got It: Borrowed from the Library
Genre: Sci-Fi, Futuristic
Publisher: Orbit

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

 

Devi Morris isn't your average mercenary. She has plans. Big ones. And a ton of ambition. It's a combination that's going to get her killed one day - but not just yet.
That is, until she just gets a job on a tiny trade ship with a nasty reputation for surprises. The Glorious Fool isn't misnamed: it likes to get into trouble, so much so that one year of security work under its captain is equal to five years everywhere else. With odds like that, Devi knows she's found the perfect way to get the jump on the next part of her Plan. But the Fool doesn't give up its secrets without a fight, and one year on this ship might be more than even Devi can handle.

Review

I normally picture the books I'm reading in my head, but this was like a full-blown movie. I attribute that mostly to Ms. Bach's world building, but I have watched a lot of Sci-Fi shows with bad-ass women-BSG, Killjoys, Dark Matter, Firefly, etc. The characters were fantastic and I'm invested in these characters and their story so hard.

Really the world is the star for me. It's so developed and explained in such an easy way. Ms. Bach touches on some tiny things that help make it feel real. Like details about different species I wouldn't even think about. A lot of times, Sci-Fi stories just have humans or humanoid creatures.

All that being said Devi is solid. She's actually a pretty well-balanced bad-ass which you don't always see I don't have a lot in common with her, but I still respect her. She's smart and kind even if she's a little reckless.

The side characters were also done well. Rupert and Nova are probably my favorites. Ms. Bach did a great job of laying groundwork so I'm curious about them, but didn't do too much. Which right now I'm pretty frustrated about.

I have no idea were this is going but I'm definitely excited to go on the journey.

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Top 10 Tuesday: Fall TBR

Top 10 Tuesday was created by the Broke and the Bookish. You can find more information here

TBRs scare me at the best of times, but my reading has been so random in the last six months that it's extra scary. But I still wanted to make this list. Lately, I've been reading a lot more, so perhaps I'll actually read one or two of these this fall.

As per usual, this list is in no particular order.

Oh, and some of these I own and some I don't. 

1) The Goal by Elle Kennedy

 

 

2) Dragonfly in Amber by Diana Gabaldon

 

 

3) Fire Study by Maria V. Snyder

 

 

4) Cream of the Crop by Alice Clayton

 

 

5) Etiquette & Espionage by Gail Carriger

 

 

6) Keepsake by Sarina Bowen

 

 

7) Any Duchess will Do by Tessa Dare (This would be a re-read)

 

 

8) Irresisitbly Yours by Lauren Layne

 

9) No Good Dragon Goes Unpunished by Rachel Aaron

 

 

10) Heaven's Queen by Rachel Bach

Thanks for reading!

August Wrap-Up (2016)

August really flew by. I think a huge part of that is that work was busy. This is already our busy season and this is the worst I've seen it in my five years there. So, I've been working a lot of overtime. This cuts into a lot of free time including reading.

I have to prioritize other things like sleep. Especially when I have to be 100% at work.

So, I read six books. It could've been better, but I'm not disappointed. Probably doesn't hurt that I finally read a few books by two of my favorite authors. And all but one of them (which was a re-read) were library books.

Below are the books I read and their ratings.

The Shadows-4 Stars

Blood Kiss-4 Stars

The Beast-4 Stars

Lover Eternal-5 Stars

Brown-Eyed Girl-4 Stars

Fortune's Pawn-4 Stars

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Review: Cress by Marissa Meyer

Series: Lunar Chronicles Book #3
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 550
Rating: 4 Stars
How I Got It: Purchased
Genre: Sci-Fi, Fairytale Retellings
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends

Synopsis courtesy of Goodreads

In this third book in the Lunar Chronicles, Cinder and Captain Thorne are fugitives on the run, now with Scarlet and Wolf in tow. Together, they’re plotting to overthrow Queen Levana and her army.

Their best hope lies with Cress, a girl imprisoned on a satellite since childhood who's only ever had her netscreens as company. All that screen time has made Cress an excellent hacker. Unfortunately, she’s just received orders from Levana to track down Cinder and her handsome accomplice.

When a daring rescue of Cress goes awry, the group is separated. Cress finally has her freedom, but it comes at a high price. Meanwhile, Queen Levana will let nothing prevent her marriage to Emperor Kai. Cress, Scarlet, and Cinder may not have signed up to save the world, but they may be the only hope the world has.

 
Review

This one had a lot more allusions to it's fairytale than the first two books. Or maybe I just notice them more because I'm very familiar with this fairytale. I did really enjoy the story, but I'm not all cockoo for coco puffs over it the way the internet seems to be.

Normally, stories that have a ton of POVs bothers me, but this works. I like that just because this is Cress's story she isn't the only one. Kai and Scarlet and Cinder's stories all continue. And Ms. Meyer did a good job of pacing the different POVs so that they came at the right time.

Cress is a very nice girl. Obviously she was sheltered, but she was also strong. There's so much she had to go through and she did it without complaint.

The way people talk about Thorne I thought he would be more swoon-worthy. I do like him and think he's generally a good person beneath the arrogance and sarcasm. But I think I like Kai more than him. I hope that's not blasphemy.

I'm really into the plot in this series. There's some mystery and suspense. I never know what Queen Levana is going to do and it makes me nervous when she shows up. There were some more things revealed and I am very interested in Winter as a character.

One thing that really impressed me was Ms. Meyer's use of humor. I wouldn't say this is a funny book, but there is a good amount of humor to lighten up the mood when needed.

Oh, and I love Iko. I mean I've always liked her, but she is just so amazing. She's funny and endearing. Seriously, if she dies somehow I'm going to be pissed. Anyone else can bite it, but not her. Don't spoil Winter for me.

Thanks for reading!
Holly

Top 10 Tuesday: Unfinished Series

Top 10 Tuesday was created by the Broke and the Bookish. You can find more information here

 

I’m pretty sure I did this as a video on my Youtube channel, but I’m too lazy to look. And for me, I’m going to list series that are finished and I have actually started.

1)      The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken

2)      Defiance Trilogy by C.J. Redwine

3)      Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins

4)      Nevermore Trilogy by Kelly Creagh

5)      His Fair Assassin Trilogy by Robin LaFevers

6)      Across the Universe by Beth Revis

7)      Fever by Karen Marie Moning

8)      Sword of Truth by Terry Goodkind

9)      The Parasol Protectorate by Gail Carriger

10)   MacKenzies and McBrides by Jennifer Ashley

Thanks for reading!