Review for Paradise Towers by Shweta Bachchan-Nanda

Paradise Towers by Shweta Bachchan-Nanda

Blurb:

Welcome to Paradise Towers, an apartment building in central Mumbai. Everyone here has a story to tell. Or maybe they have stories to hide. Shweta Bachchan-Nanda's quirky, intimate debut explores the intertwined lives in this building - a forbidden romance, an elopement, the undercurrents of tension in corridor interactions and an explosive Diwali celebration. Bachchan-Nanda's is a dazzling voice that will draw you into the intoxicating, crazy world that is Paradise Towers.

Review:

I went into this book with zero expectations. Because well, I’ve had let’s say less than stellar experiences with books by Indian Authors lately, so I wanted to give the book a fair shot by not setting my expectations up. And I must say I was pleasantly surprised by this book.

Charming is the first word that comes to mind when I think of Paradise Towers. I really enjoyed all the little details put into the book. Also, I need to say this, the chapter numbers looked like number plates on the door, and I thought that was a really cute detail to include.

I adored the descriptive writing style. To me, it has this old world charm to it that I really liked. For me it was a good balance of it being descriptive without going too overboard. It creates a clear picture of the building and provides a perfectly innocent backdrop for a mundane life in Mumbai. But, everything is rarely as it seems.

Paradise Towers was a charming mesh that to me represented Mumbai, with a mixture of all the people from all walks of life.  In some places it did feel like the writer tried to include too many topics in one book, but in the end I felt like it kind of reflected to the chaotic nature of the book and the chaos that is Mumbai sometimes. The book had a realistic description of the intersecting and intertwining lives of the residents at Paradise Towers, which was fun to read about. I think the interpersonal relations in the book is what made the book stand out to me.

Overall, a breezy and fun book, it would make for a perfect break.

Review for Apocalypse 5 by Stacey Rourke

Apocalypse 5 by Stacey Rourke

Blurb:

The end of the world is coming. How or when, scientists can’t agree upon. For decades, Earth’s best line of defense has been a team of young soldiers known as the Apocalypse Five, forced into virtual reality simulations to train for Doom’s Day. But, this is no game. Death on the grid is brutally final and calls up the next in a long line of cadets. Stationed aboard the AT-1-NS Starship, the A5 are celebrities thrust into the limelight by a calling they didn’t choose. All it takes is one unscheduled mission, showing seventeen-year-old team leader Detroit a harsh and unfathomable reality, to shake the A5’s belief in all they thought they knew. After questioning people with the power to destroy them, the team is framed for a crime they didn’t commit and marked for death. Now, the hunt is on. Can the Apocalypse Five expose the truth the starship would kill to keep hidden? Or, will their bravery end in a public execution?

Review:

With every book Stacey Rourke just blows me away. I love reading SciFi and Dystopian books and Apocalypse 5 combines them beautifully into this action packed novel.

Apocalypse 5 follows the journey of a team of 5 teens preparing for the end of the world. It has the classic sense of humour and sass that to me has become a Stacey Rourke signature. I honestly loved the story so much. It had me hooked from the opening line:

I mean when the opening line is so amazing you know its going to be a good book right?

As always I loved the writing style. And I absolutely adored the characters. I loved how thought out the whole concept was. The whole book world seemed so well rounded from the way they talked right down to the descriptions. Everything tied together to make it one of my favourite reads of 2018.

Amazing, amazing, amazing! Can't wait for book 2!

Review for I Like You, I Love Her by J.R. Rogue

I Like You, I Love Her by J.R. Rogue

Blurb:

In a lot of ways, I was one of the lucky ones. My high school crush liked me back. It should have been magic and fire, but it was tragic and brutal. I wrote it that way, anyways.

His name was Bryan Winthrop. He was our high school basketball star. The prom king. The most beautiful boy I had ever laid eyes on. He liked me — the theatre geek who never should have caught his eye — but he loved her.

It’s been more than 10 years since the homecoming dance. Since the night he kissed me, breaking both of our hearts for the first time.

After the scandal, after graduation, I left our small town and made a name for myself on Broadway, then in Hollywood. I didn’t mean for the play I wrote about our high school affair to blow up. I didn’t mean for it to reach all the way back to my roots, wreaking havoc, wrecking families.

Bryan Winthrop and I were not friends, not lovers.

But I’m back. And for one summer — if she lets us — maybe we can be.

Review:

I was lucky enough to get a ARC for I Like You I Love Her. There is just something about J.R. Rogue's books. This is her second novel and it has blown me away again. I loved her first book Kiss Me Like You Mean It. It was so beautifully written and the ending just, I still can't...

I Like You, I Love Her follows the story of Sevrin as she returns to her hometown and has to face her past. Told through alternating Past and Present chapters, it tells a compelling and unputdownable story about second chances, family, friendship and loving yourself.

What I love about this book, is that the characters are all so human, so relateable. It doesn't have perfect characters that are held up to an impossible standard or kept on a pedestal. It has flawed characters with a past that are trying to get to a better place. I loved the family and friendship dynamics shown in the book. It just speaks to the author's impeccable ability to portray the characters and interactions so well, that you can relate to it. 

I am so in love with J.R. Rogue's writing style. Her poetic background certainly shows through. It was both soft and thought provoking. The story just flows so well and I just couldn't wait to get back to reading the book as soon as I put it down. 

Overall, another beautifully written book that will resonate with the readers. 

Review for TS901: Dominion by Stacey Rourke and Tish Thawer

TS901: Dominion by Stacey Rourke and Tish Thawer

Blurb:

Risen from their literal hole in the ground, Thia, Lance, and her ‘Maly’ brethren have escaped The Hive and now face a full-on war. Welcoming the distraction from her abysmal love life, Thia throws herself into training the troops and claiming Nary bases.

Grateful to be of service again, Evan focuses on maneuvering their forces while fighting to break the icy bonds of betrayal still clutching Thia’s heart.

Review for Murder in Paharganj by Kulpreet Yadav

Murder in Paharganj by Kulpreet Yadav

Blurb:

On a cold December morning, a white woman is found murdered in a cheap hotel in Paharganj, New Delhi. Vicks Menon, an out-of-work journalist, is tipped off by the hotel's receptionist and is the first to arrive at the crime scene, where he discovers a lead. It's the bus ticket used by the dead woman two days earlier. But Vicks is battling personal trouble.

Review for Webley and The World Machine

Webley and The World Machine by Zachary Paul Chopchinski

Blurb:

A world beneath our world.
An army of mechanical monsters.
A war to end all wars.

When childhood best friends Adal and Arija discover a steam powered world hidden deep within the earth, the result is life changing. Webley and the Dwellers of The World Machine work to keep the Earth turning. But when Arija and Adal stumble onto a growing conflict that will destroy the Earth, they find themselves forced to fight.

Will they be able to stop the war in time or will they regret ever having set foot in The World Machine?

Review:

This book was so gooooddd! I'm beginning to think I really enjoy Steampunk books.

Webley and the World Machine was such a fun read. I loved the storyline and the plot. It was such a different book. But I was absolutely SOLD just as soon as I saw the art in the book. Put maps, art, music or anything of that sort in a book and I'm 100% more likely to read it and love it.

I just wish the book was polished a little bit more and I wish the ending was a little more fleshed out. Like the entire book is so full of little details and art and wonderfulness that the ending to me felt a little abrupt.

But I adored the characters and the writing style flowed well too.

Overall, a great read! ♥

Review for Entombed in Glass by Stacey Rourke

Entombed in Glass by Stacey Rourke

Blurb:

Mirror, mirror on the wall.
What’s behind that fated call?
He’s the seer of present, future, and past,
Yet remains a nameless face entombed in glass.
Raised as a servant in the underwater kingdom of Atlantica, Alastor worked his way up to a regal member of the Royal Guard. Only as a decorated soldier did he stand a chance of winning the hand of the woman he’s loved since childhood … Poseidon’s only daughter, Princess Vanessa. But, when the war against humans rages, dark magics are evoked to give the mermen a fighting chance. Temporarily granted legs, they charge from the sea into a doomed battle.

Doing the bidding of his masters as a trusted pawn,
The claims of his loyalty couldn’t be more wrong. 

Waking on land, with bodies all around, Alastor’s lone goal becomes returning to the ocean and the only life he’s ever known. A plan that is quickly diverted when Hades, Lord of the Underworld, appears with a twisted agenda all his own. Cast to a land far from the lapping comforts of home, Alastor’s sole companion is a troubled misfit named Sterling that soon comes to depend on him. Trained to be a hero, how far is Alastor willing to go to return to the woman he loves? And can he live with the sacrifices he's forced to make?

Each day he schemes to break free from their thrall,
and honor a self-made vow … to kill them all. 

Review:

GOOD LORD THIS BOOK!! SO GOOD!!

I just wrote down and deleted a paragraph full of spoilers that I just typed because this book has me so excited! (Can you tell I'm excited by the number of exclamation points I've already used? )

I absolutely love everything related to Alice in Wonderland and all the madness that comes with it. This book had all the madness that I love and so much more. I couldn't have guessed the twists and the back stories that was weaved into this brilliant book.

I honestly don't know how Stacey Rourke does it. The way she writes these stories and re-imagines them in a way that makes it feel like it was meant to be written this way. It just feels right.

As always I loved the writing style and the characters. Honestly when I went into this book I had NO IDEA that the story would take the turn it took. (Did that even make sense?) But I am so in love with this story, its not even funny.

I loved all the different possibilities and theories that Stacey Rourke has brought into the stories that we love already. I can't wait to see what she does next with this series. CAN I HAVE THE NEXT BOOK ALREADY!? I am ready to meet you know who. (No not Voldemort :P)

Overall, a fantastic book. LOVED IT!
Can't wait to read Pursuing Madness!!!! ♥

Exits, Desires, & Slow Fires by J.R. Rogue

Exits, Desires, & Slow Fires by J.R. Rogue

Blurb:

It’s going to hit you below the belt. 


You’re going to reach for the 
closest stand-in lover you can 
find
& you’re going to make 
a home in their body
& 
you’re going to pretend your 
childhood memories are hung 
in his chest
& you skinned your knee 
tripping over the curve of his arm 

& you have always been here.

Review:

Heartache

Betrayal

And the all elusive love(r)

That is the feel of the book to me. The words strung together so eloquently that they give you a glimpse into the life of the author. 

I'm not going to pretend that I know everything there is to know about poetry and composition or that I even understand everything there is to understand about them. I always base the poetry on the feel of it. And gosh did this collection of poems make me feel.

I've been following the author on Instagram for a while now and her words have always been beautiful to read. And now after reading this book it has me itching to read the rest of her poems and books. Although its been a fairly recent obsession with poems, and I don't have much to compare it to; I think this book was full of raw emotion that translated very well onto the page.

I loved this collection. This has been a fantastic read.

Review for The Lucky Beggar Trilogy by Craig Anderson

The Lucky Beggar Trilogy by Craig Anderson 

Blurb:

How would you behave if karma was instant? 

Luke is not a nice person. Living on the streets of London has forced him to beg, borrow and steal to survive. In the hunt for a big payday he stumbles across a scientist willing to pay for test subjects that don't ask any questions. It was supposed to be easy money, a quick jab for a stack of cash. Unfortunately fate had other ideas. Now Luke is infected with a concentrated form of karma that judges his every decision, rewarding good and punishing bad.

He'll need all the help he can get if he's going to survive murderous mimes, homeless gangs, angry bullies and hired mercenaries. His only friend is an otterhound called Lucky, a matted ball of fur and enthusiasm. Together they must find the cure before karma gets them both killed.

This hilarious romp around England contains all three novellas in the Lucky Beggar Trilogy (Getting Lucky, Lucky Shot and Lucky Break) in one handy dandy package.

Review:

I loved this trilogy! I thought that this was such a great and unique concept. It definitely was one of my most interesting reads in 2017.

The concept of Karma has been around for a while but this book has a completely unique take on the concept. The whole idea about Karma being an actual organism and how the events unfolded from there were very interesting to me and pretty fun to read. I loved the sense of humour in the book.

The book for the most part set a pretty good pace, but I felt that it did drag in certain places. Other than that I thought the book was fantastic and unique. Overall, a fun read!

Review for Immersion by Colleen Nye

Immersion by Colleen Nye

Blurb:

Three things Seren knew: #1 Her life felt odd being so tame. #2 She lost her parents when she was young and missed then dearly. #3 Her life was never going to be the same after the day Chase came back into it.

In a world, not unlike our own the economy has tanked allowing the inhabitants to seek solace in a world of virtual gaming. Now, money hungry corporations will stop at nothing to make a buck, even if that means releasing a product that will claim millions of lives.

Review:

I was pretty excited about this book when I started reading it. I thought the concept was pretty cool and seeing the way we are becoming more and more obsessed with technology and how much technology is taking over our lives, it felt appropriate I guess?

I really liked all the characters, I can't say much out here about why or whom I liked because spoilers. But I thought that the book was well thought out and had a pretty good concept.

This might be just me but I felt that in some chapters/scenes, I would have liked to have one single clear POV compared to just having dialogues/inner monologues from different characters. And in some places the book felt too dry for me, I mean the story was pretty exciting and a lot was happening but in some places I felt that the book was a little dry. It could be a little more polished.

But I LOVED the fact that the book was like wrapped up neatly by the ending of the book. Yes people NO CLIFFHANGERS!! Whohoo! In all honesty, I love when a book comes full circle, I love the fact that we got to see the "After" scenes. 

Also can we just take a moment to appreciate the cover?! I love the cover so much.

Overall a pretty good read.

Review for TS901: Anomaly by Stacey Rourke and Tish Thawer

TS901: Anomaly by Stacey Rourke and Tish Thawer

Blurb:

Tainted water for the good of the people. Fluoride and vitamins to sustain the health of the human race. Added ingredients to extend and elevate the quality of life. All good things, right?

Wrong.

Thia Kelly has been changed by the TS901 chemical in the world’s water supply. Now, forced into hiding with the other inflicted outcasts, she struggles to survive as her powers emerge.

Evan Daniels hunted for others like himself, and finding Thia suddenly brought meaning back into his life. Love blossomed between the strange couple while they searched for a way to reverse the effects. Unfortunately, the Government had something else in mind.

Super-soldier creation on a mass scale was their end goal, and thanks to an unfortunate family tie, Evan became Patient #1.

Good-guy? Bad-guy? The world isn’t sure, but Thia is left with only one choice––save the ass of the world’s first Anomaly who just happens to be her boyfriend.

TS901:Anomaly - Rise of the Rebels

Review:

A post shared by TJ 📖 (@thecuriositykey) on Aug 10, 2017 at 10:54am PDT

TS901: Anomaly is a gritty dystopian novel by Stacey Rourke and Tish Thawer. I've loved books by Stacey Rourke and when I read the blurb for this book, I knew I just HAD to read this one too. I thought the book would be a bit chaotic because two different authors were writing it, but when I read this book, I have to say that the writing style blended together beautifully. 

TS901: Anomaly does not have the same feel as I've come to expect and love by Stacey Rourke, its grittier and a little bit more serious I guess? Nevertheless, it was a great read. It did have its sassy moments and was pretty entertaining. 

The Malies were my favourites, obviously. I loved how all the characters were so different and had a distinct voice. I feel I enjoyed this book more because it was pretty fast paced and the descriptions of the characters and their powers were pretty great. It was like watching a mini movie in my head.

The scene with the lab is still giving me nightmares. 

I just wish that this book was a little more polished. I was waiting for a wow moment in the book and maybe because I guessed one of the major reveals in the plots, I didn't really get that impact? I dunno.

Overall, I think that TS901: Anomaly was a pretty good start to a series. This series has a lot of scope to grow and become a fan favourite. I can't wait to see where the authors take it!

Dystopian and Sci-Fi lovers will enjoy this book. 

Review for Rise of the Sea Witch by Stacey Rourke

Rise of the Sea Witch by Stacey Rourke

Blurb: 

 Details of the sea witch’s banishment have been exaggerated. The body count that preempted it was not. Once an illustrious princess, her hands and tentacles were stained with the blood of thousands. No one could comprehend how the hooks of madness dragged her down from her life of privilege.

Born Princess Vanessa of Atlantica, the ambitious young royal was one of two children born to the great King Poseidon. She and her brother, Triton, were groomed from birth to rule. Yet only one would ascend that coveted throne. While carefree Triton flits through his training with a cavalier demeanor and beguiling charm, Vanessa’s hunger for her father’s acceptance drives her to push herself to the limits of magic, and combat to become a leader worthy of her people.

When war against the humans ravages their once regal kingdom, political sides are chosen. Factions from the seven seas challenge the existing leadership, pitting Vanessa against her brother in a vicious battle for the crown. Traitors are exposed, dark family secrets revealed, and a once strong sibling bond is strained to its breaking point.

Only when the ink black waters from the ultimate betrayal rescind, will the truth be known of how the villainous sea witch rose with one name on her vengeful lips--Triton.

Review:

Who here loves Disney?! You do? Do you love The Little Mermaid? Of course you do! 

I also love The Little Mermaid. I'd sit up glued to the TV whenever it would come on. Even back then I'd wonder what happened to Ursula? What made her "her", you know? Worry not, for here's an answer for you in an amazingly well written book format! (Wow, I'm feeling super hyper today. Tone it down TJ!)

Lately,I've been on a re-telling and anti-heroes kick. And you know I love a good back story. So OBVIOUSLY, this book hit just the right spot! I absolutely love books by Stacey Rourke. She has a way to just pull you in and keep you hooked. I expected no less from this book and it absolutely delivered. 

Rise of the Sea Witch is the back story for Ursula, or Princess Vanessa as she was known back then. I absolutely LOVED it. The characters were amazing and the writing style, as usual, was brilliant. There was a little surprise character that I totally did not expect to see in this particular story, but I hope he/she comes back in the next instalment. (No, I'm not telling you which character. Because SPOILERS!)

I particularly loved how Stacey Rourke just incorporates these little bits that are reminiscent of the characters we know. It actually felt like the character you know? But at the same time, manages to make the story her own. She created a book world around a few characters we know and love, and gave it her own distinct voice. (That was confusing, wasn't it?)

Finally, lets take a moment to appreciate the gorgeous cover! How cool does that look?!

Overall, just get this book if you love The Little Mermaid, or just mermaids in general, or re-tellings. Absolutely loved this book!

PS: I don't know how she will top this book, but I have no doubt the next book will still blow me away!

Read the Prologue for Rise of the Sea Witch in my last post HERE.

Series Review for Creatura Series by Nely Cab

Creatura by Nely Cab

Blurb:

When seventeen year-old Isis Martin is having trouble sleeping due to perturbing dreams of a horrific growling beast, she decides to confront her fear. But what Isis discovers is something other than a menacing entity.

The human-like creature offers Isis assurance that he is not a figment of her imagination. Unwilling to accept his avowal, Isis sets his words to contest by asking the entity to prove himself—a dare, he readily welcomes.

It is in her dreams that Isis innocently stumbles upon the silent existence of the divine lineage of those that man has long forgotten.

In a quaint town, deep in south Texas, this story leads Isis onto the path of impermissible love and captivating life-changing truths. Isis Martin's journey is sure to leave any reader ravenous for more.

Fruit of Misfortune by Nely Cab

Blurb:

Isis' goals for the future included things like attending and graduating college. However, becoming a monster wasn't part of the plan. Isis and her boyfriend, David, are on the brink of a horrible transformation and they are eager to stop it. Together, they set out on a quest to Greece to find Isis' biological father—the only person that may be able to help them. Their journey comes to an abrupt stop before it even begins when Isis falls ill, and Eros, David's best friend, arrives in Athens, unannounced and curious…with a plan of his own.

The hunt for her father leads Isis on the turbulent path of deceit, death, and demons as she anticipates the dawning of the beast that stirs inside her.

Marker of Hope by Nely Cab

Blurb:

Who will save her from herself?
Upon her return from Greece with three new friends and a broken heart, Isis' hunger for human flesh is stronger than ever. She's a miserable mess after losing David following her betrayal. Her mutation into Creatura is all but over when she receives the surprise of her life, compelling her to seek out David's family. Only, they've broken all ties with her, and she doesn't know how to reach them.
Turpis, the demonic beings that attacked Isis in Greece, have tracked her whereabouts. Now, in order to fend for her life, Isis must join forces with deities she doesn't trust.
Is Isis truly the Marker of Hope as she's believed to be, or will she lose the battle to her starving inner beast and demons, obliterating humankind from existence? Find out in the epic finale of the best-selling CREATURA SERIES.

Series Review:

So I've reviewed Creatura like ages back. You can check it out HERE. And I've reviewed the prequel to the series called Prelude as well HERE. 

Now that those are out of the way. Back to the series review.

So if you've read the review for book one (Creatura) you know I loved it. It was full of romance, mystery and a little bit of mythology. Creatura was so full of promise to be an epic series but for some reason it fell just short of it.

Fruit of Misfortune picked up just after the major cliffhanger in Creatura. It started out great but it didn't really keep up with Creatura. Then it just kind of went down from there. There were some high points in the follow up two books and the plot was intriguing. But there were a few instances and a few things that the books could have avoided.

I think I just went in with a lot of expectations after I read Creatura and that's why I felt that the books let me down a little. It was a really good read. Don't get me wrong. But it wasn't the read I was expecting.

A little underwhelmed.

Review for Ultraxenopia by M.A. Phipps

Ultraxenopia by M.A. Phipps

Blurb:

BOOK ONE IN THE YOUNG ADULT DYSTOPIAN TRILOGY PROJECT W. A. R.


Don't stand out. Blend in. Remain invisible. Those are the rules I lived by - the rules I thought would keep me alive.

I was wrong.

Wynter Reeves is a law-abiding citizen of the State, a willing conformist whose daily life is haunted by terrorism and oppression. With the constant threat of death hanging over her like a shadow, she forces herself to live by a strict set of rules, all in the hope of ensuring she is never noticed. However, on her twenty-first birthday, as she prepares to take the placement exam that will determine her future within society, she begins to show symptoms of a rare and debilitating illness - ultimately attracting the attention of the State. Taken into the custody of the feared research facility known as the DSD, her worst nightmare becomes reality.

Ripped away from the life she knew, Wynter is forced to become the test subject of the mysterious Dr. Richter. Through him, she learns the true and terrifying nature of her condition: a disease called Ultraxenopia.

Review:

I read this book as a part of a Blind Date with a Book (more on this in another post). I honestly was really excited when I started the book, it felt new and wonderful. I love dystopian books and this seemed to have a fantastic premise.

"Don’t stand out. Blend in. Remain invisible."

That line had me hooked! And the cover! I LOVED the cover! Ultraxenopia started out well, but somewhere in the middle I lost interest. I would have shelved it as DNF but I was way too invested in what happens at that point. There are two main things that bugged me. First was that the world building felt incomplete. Like this is a new dystopian world that we are being introduced to and there's not much explanation as to what happened and why. In some places there are some explanations, but they seem hasty. I felt like I picked up the second book in the series or I missed a prequel novella that explains everything. The other thing that bothered me was the characters. For some reason I felt that I didn't get to really know them. And it bothered me because there is such great potential for them there. I wish that the book was more fleshed out and had less inner monologues. 

I wish there was more is what I keep coming back to. I really do think there's a good scope for this story and it does have the potential to grow and become very popular. It just needs more!

Ugh I feel weird after writing this review. I've avoided it for weeks now. I'm going to go watch some feel good shows. K?

oxox

TJ

Review for The Red Necklace by Sally Gardener, Narrated by Tom Hiddleston

The Red Necklace by Sally Gardener, Narrated by Tom Hiddleston

Blurb:

France 1789: a time of terror; a charismatic boy, Yann, who must find out who he is; the daring rescue of Sido, an aristocrat's daughter - these are the elements in this tremendous adventure by a consummate storyteller, a marvellous tale of the first days of the French Revolution.

The story of a remarkable boy called Yann Margoza; Tetu the dwarf, his friend and mentor; Sido, unloved daughter of a foolish Marquis; and Count Kalliovski, Grand Master of a secret society, who has half the aristocracy in thrall to him, and wants Yann dead. Yann is spirited away to London but three years later, when Paris is gripped by the bloody horrors of the Revolution, he returns, charged with two missions: to find out Kalliovski's darkest deeds and to save Sido from the guillotine. With a tangle of secrets, a thread of magic and a touch of humour, the follies of the aristocracy and the sufferings of ordinary people are unfolded as their lives move relentlessly towards the tragic and horrific days of the Terror. THE RED NECKLACE is not only a tremendous adventure story but a vibrant and passionate picture of Paris in turmoil and of a large cast of memorable characters.

Review:

First of all - YAY!!!! I have successfully finished listening to my first audiobook!!

Now back to the review. Everyone who knows me knows that I'm not a big fan of Historical Fiction. I get bored and cannot find the will to keep going. And Audiobooks just make me sleepy. The last time I tried to listen to one I promptly fell asleep within the first 20 minitues on three separate occasions. Its safe to say that Audiobooks and me don't really work out well. So this year I thought why not kill two birds with one stone and listen to an Historical Fiction Audiobook?

And let me just say this was a good decision! So when I found out that Tom Hiddleston had narrated an Historical Fiction book, it was fate. I just was meant to listen to this. 

When I started I wasn't sure if I'd be able to finish or even get through this book. But trust me Tom Hiddleston makes this narration so engaging and just brings it to life. I loved the different voices and accents he used for all the different characters. (I think that was what kept me from falling asleep :P )

The two blurbs pretty much tell you everything that you need to know about the plot. It did drag on at some places but the narration kept me going. Overall, I think it was a pretty interesting read.

Review for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Blurb:

The Eighth Story. Nineteen Years Later.

Based on an original new story by J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, a new play by Jack Thorne, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is the eighth story in the Harry Potter series and the first official Harry Potter story to be presented on stage. The play will receive its world premiere in London’s West End on July 30, 2016.

It was always difficult being Harry Potter and it isn’t much easier now that he is an overworked employee of the Ministry of Magic, a husband and father of three school-age children.

While Harry grapples with a past that refuses to stay where it belongs, his youngest son Albus must struggle with the weight of a family legacy he never wanted. As past and present fuse ominously, both father and son learn the uncomfortable truth: sometimes, darkness comes from unexpected places.

Review:

I actually thought Cursed Child wasn't that bad. Unpopular opinion I know.

The main reason why I liked this book was probably because I knew that this book was just a script for the play. I think I had accepted that the "original" magic might not be there in this book.

Was it the mind-blowing and intriguing book that we've come to expect from JK? Probably not. But did it make me smile and feel nostalgic? Hell yeah!

Don't get me wrong, I was a bit pissed off about certain parts of the book, but I just think that this book made me happy to go back into the beloved world of Hogwarts and Magic again. And the nostalgia alone would have made me happy, but the plot of the book was pretty clever. I liked that we got to see how one little action or decision would have made the entire outcome of original story so completely different.

Cursed Child had everything, time travel, magic and that spark that made the Harry Potter Series what it was. Overall, I enjoyed the book.

Review for Holding Up the Universe by Jennifer Niven

Holding Up the Universe by Jennifer Niven

Blurb:

Everyone thinks they know Libby Strout, the girl once dubbed “America’s Fattest Teen.” But no one’s taken the time to look past her weight to get to know who she really is. Following her mom’s death, she’s been picking up the pieces in the privacy of her home, dealing with her heartbroken father and her own grief. Now, Libby’s ready: for high school, for new friends, for love, and for EVERY POSSIBILITY LIFE HAS TO OFFER. In that moment, I know the part I want to play here at MVB High. I want to be the girl who can do anything.

Everyone thinks they know Jack Masselin, too. Yes, he’s got swagger, but he’s also mastered the impossible art of giving people what they want, of fitting in. What no one knows is that Jack has a newly acquired secret: he can’t recognize faces. Even his own brothers are strangers to him. He’s the guy who can re-engineer and rebuild anything in new and bad-ass ways, but he can’t understand what’s going on with the inner workings of his brain. So he tells himself to play it cool: Be charming. Be hilarious. Don’t get too close to anyone.

Until he meets Libby. When the two get tangled up in a cruel high school game—which lands them in group counseling and community service—Libby and Jack are both pissed, and then surprised. Because the more time they spend together, the less alone they feel. . . . Because sometimes when you meet someone, it changes the world, theirs and yours.

Jennifer Niven delivers another poignant, exhilarating love story about finding that person who sees you for who you are—and seeing them right back.

Review:

All the Bright Places holds a special place in my heart, so I was really looking forward to Jennifer Niven's next novel. And Holding Up the Universe did not disappoint.

I love books where I get to learn something new or understand some new concept. And this book did that and so much more. Everyone struggles with who they are and what they want to be seen as when they are in school. It is all about the "face" we choose to show the world. HUTU beautifully deals with the struggles of prosopagnosia and the struggle to defy the labels assigned to you.

I adored the characters and the writing style. The highlight for me was the Supernatural references, I adored them! (Fellow fangirl here!)

I did read some reviews and posts saying that the book or the blurb was offensive. But in my opinion, after reading I felt that the book delivered a very body-positive message. I just had to get that out there.

I don't know what else to say other than I loved the book, and I will be anxiously waiting for the next release by Jennifer Niven.

Review for It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover

It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover

Blurb: 

SOMETIMES THE ONE WHO LOVES YOU IS THE ONE WHO HURTS YOU THE MOST

Lily hasn't always had it easy, but that's never stopped her from working hard for the life she wants. She's come a long way from the small town in Maine where she grew up - she graduated from college, moved to Boston, and started her own business. So when she feels a spark with a gorgeous neurosurgeon named Ryle Kincaid, everything in Lily's life suddenly seems almost too good to be true.

Ryle is assertive, stubborn, and maybe even a little arrogant. He's also sensitive, brilliant, and has a total soft spot for Lily, but Ryle's complete aversion to relationships is disturbing.
As questions about her new relationship overwhelm her, so do thoughts of Atlas Corrigan - her first love and a link to the past she left behind. He was her kindred spirit, her protector. When Atlas suddenly reappears, everything Lily has built with Ryle is threatened.

With this bold and deeply personal novel, Colleen Hoover delivers a heart-wrenching story that breaks exciting new ground for her as a writer. It Ends With Us is an unforgettable tale of love that comes at the ultimate price.

This book contains graphic scenes and very sensitive subject matter.

Review:

I think its so important that authors write books about things and issues that aren't usually discussed. I love Colleen Hoover and am so thankful to her for this book.

I am not going to mention much about the book because this book is one of those that you need to go in blind without any spoilers. But please note that this book might contain some triggers for some people.

I just want to say that this book was a roller-coaster of emotions. I have never had a complete 180° turn about any character in just one line as I have with this book. The emotions run high in this novel. I just want to thank Colleen again because this book lets us see behind the situation and lets us see why a certain character behaves a certain way.

Thank you for this eye-opener.

Review for Stealing Light by Julie Cassar

Stealing Light by Julie Cassar

Blurb:

"Tonight, everything could change. I wasn’t ready to let go of anyone just yet."

If you could change what you know is coming, would you? Cecelia Walker discovers an amazing ability deep within herself that gives her the power to change the future. When mysterious outsiders enter her life, she begins to question everything and everyone she once knew.

Years earlier, CeeCee’s life changed forever the day her parents were killed in a horrific car accident. Suddenly extraordinary people and bizarre events began to seep into her very small world. Surviving for years on her addiction to coffee and running, life suddenly deals her a game-changing wildcard and all bets are off. Her magnificent Gift of Light awakens a tremendous dark power wanting to steal what is hers.

Will Cecelia be able to change what she’s seen and set a new course? Has she met her otherworldly match against evil and found her true soul mate? Or, is nothing as it seems as the power of darkness threatens to consume her and those she loves.

Review:

Stealing Light is probably only one of the few books I wanted to read just because of the author. I have been following her on social media and I thought that her style was pretty cool. When she graciously offered the book for a review I jumped a t the chance!

First off all let me say this, I did not expect the book to turn out the way it did. Looking at the cover and the blurb, I thought it would be like a murder mystery sort of book , boy was I wrong.

Stealing Light took me completely by surprise. I really liked the author's take on angels and the way she built the whole book world. The writing style was pretty good and easy to follow. If I had to point out one negative it would be that I wish the book was a little more descriptive. At certain places I felt like I needed a bit more to just enjoy the book better I guess? I don't know I'm just being picky here because I really liked the book and this was just one thing that bothered me. Oh and I HAVE to mention the fact that the characters are really well thought out, from their mannerisms and the way they talk, I adore that the author put so much personality into each of the characters.

Overall, loved the book! Can we get book 2 soon? Please?

oxox
TJ

Reviews for The Hidden Oracle and The Hammer of Thor by Rick Riordan

Reading books by Rick Riordan is one of the highlights of my year. They make me laugh and take me away into a completely different world. Since I've been not posting, here are both the reviews for books by Rick Riordan that I read this year!

The Hidden Oracle by Rick Riordan

Blurb:

How do you punish an immortal?

By making him human.

After angering his father Zeus, the god Apollo is cast down from Olympus. Weak and disorientated, he lands in New York City as a regular teenage boy. Now, without his godly powers, the four-thousand-year-old deity must learn to survive in the modern world until he can somehow find a way to regain Zeus's favour.

But Apollo has many enemies—gods, monsters and mortals who would love to see the former Olympian permanently destroyed. Apollo needs help, and he can think of only one place to go... an enclave of modern demigods known as Camp Half-Blood.

Review:

This book was no different. Initially when they announced the book release I knew this book would be hilarious. I mean come on, a book revolving around Apollo? It was sure to be a hit! I loved that Percy was in this book as well. I absolutely love his character and since he was my OG favourite character, I have a soft spot for him.

And I HAVE to mention the chapter titles, I mean they have to be one of the highlights of the book, every chapter title is a haiku by Apollo so obviously it was immensely enjoyable.

I was also really excited about the ending. Why? Well you need to read for yourself, I won't tell you because 

Loved and enjoyed every minute of this book! ❤

The Hammer of Thor by Rick Riordan

Blurb:

Thor's hammer is missing again. The thunder god has a disturbing habit of misplacing his weapon--the mightiest force in the Nine Worlds. But this time the hammer isn't just lost, it has fallen into enemy hands. If Magnus Chase and his friends can't retrieve the hammer quickly, the mortal worlds will be defenceless against an onslaught of giants. Ragnarok will begin. The Nine Worlds will burn. Unfortunately, the only person who can broker a deal for the hammer's return is the gods' worst enemy, Loki--and the price he wants is very high.

Review:

This was the second book in the Norse Mythology inspired series Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard. I adore Magnus, not more than Percy but yeah. But in this book another character completely stole the show for me.

Move over Magnus, Alex is here. I ADORE Alex! Initially I will admit I didn't quite "understand" who Alex was and what certain things meant. My reaction was pretty much like Magnus but once it all clicked into place, Alex had a permanent place in my heart.

Again I MUST mention the chapter titles, I mean seriously, the days leading up to the release of the book we saw teasers of the titles and they were absolutely hilarious! I think they add a little bit more to a book that is already pretty damn fantastic.

And finally like in The Hidden Oracle, the ending!!! I ended up frantically texting all of my book babes and asking them if they had finished reading because I was so damn excited! I'm really looking forward to Book 3. 2017 cannot be here soon enough! ♥