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2491 reviews
The Agony House by Cherie Priest
3.0
Disclaimer: I received this book through KidLitExchange and the publishing company. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Rating: 3/5
Publication Date: September 25, 2018
Genre: MG Mystery
Recommended Age: 12+ (mystery, some spooky moments)
Publisher: Scholastic
Pages: 272
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Denise Farber has just moved back to New Orleans with her mom and step-dad. They left in the wake of Hurricane Katrina and have finally returned, wagering the last of their family's money on fixing up an old, rundown house and converting it to a bed and breakfast.Nothing seems to work around the place, which doesn't seem too weird to Denise. The unexplained noises are a little more out of the ordinary, but again, nothing too unusual. But when floors collapse, deadly objects rain down, and she hears creepy voices, it's clear to Denise that something more sinister lurks hidden here.Answers may lie in an old comic book Denise finds concealed in the attic: the lost, final project of a famous artist who disappeared in the 1950s. Denise isn't budging from her new home, so she must unravel the mystery-on the pages and off-if she and her family are to survive...
Review: For the most part this book was cute and enjoyable. The book had a good mystery in it and the characters are fairly well developed. The story is engaging as well and it would be a cute mystery for younger readers.
However, I didn’t like how the book brought up the topic of white people coming in to “white up” the neighborhood but didn’t go anywhere with it. It seemed like the book could have done better on some of the more social conscious issues but it failed to push those. Instead the book pushed random/unimportant aspects to the point where I felt that it was just trying to fill the book.
Verdict: A cute mystery.
Rating: 3/5
Publication Date: September 25, 2018
Genre: MG Mystery
Recommended Age: 12+ (mystery, some spooky moments)
Publisher: Scholastic
Pages: 272
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Denise Farber has just moved back to New Orleans with her mom and step-dad. They left in the wake of Hurricane Katrina and have finally returned, wagering the last of their family's money on fixing up an old, rundown house and converting it to a bed and breakfast.Nothing seems to work around the place, which doesn't seem too weird to Denise. The unexplained noises are a little more out of the ordinary, but again, nothing too unusual. But when floors collapse, deadly objects rain down, and she hears creepy voices, it's clear to Denise that something more sinister lurks hidden here.Answers may lie in an old comic book Denise finds concealed in the attic: the lost, final project of a famous artist who disappeared in the 1950s. Denise isn't budging from her new home, so she must unravel the mystery-on the pages and off-if she and her family are to survive...
Review: For the most part this book was cute and enjoyable. The book had a good mystery in it and the characters are fairly well developed. The story is engaging as well and it would be a cute mystery for younger readers.
However, I didn’t like how the book brought up the topic of white people coming in to “white up” the neighborhood but didn’t go anywhere with it. It seemed like the book could have done better on some of the more social conscious issues but it failed to push those. Instead the book pushed random/unimportant aspects to the point where I felt that it was just trying to fill the book.
Verdict: A cute mystery.
Brightly Burning by Alexa Donne
5.0
Review 2:
Disclaimer: I own this book! Love it! It’s also signed by the author. Off-topic, sorry!
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: May 1, 2018
Genre: YA Sci-Fi
Recommended Age: 15+ (violence, scares, romance)
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers
Pages: 394
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Seventeen-year-old Stella Ainsley wants just one thing: to go somewhere—anywhere—else. Her home is a floundering spaceship that offers few prospects, having been orbiting an ice-encased Earth for two hundred years. When a private ship hires her as a governess, Stella jumps at the chance. The captain of the Rochester, nineteen-year-old Hugo Fairfax, is notorious throughout the fleet for being a moody recluse and a drunk. But with Stella he’s kind.
But the Rochester harbors secrets: Stella is certain someone is trying to kill Hugo, and the more she discovers, the more questions she has about his role in a conspiracy threatening the fleet.
Review: Oh wow this book was just as fantastic as the first time I read it! I loved the world building and how Donne thought up how life would work in a world where we’re in space because of an Ice Age (it’s a very real threat still). I love the characters and how she took the original plot from Jane Eyre and somehow transformed it into a modern (futuristic?) tale for today’s generation. I also love the writing! I would definitely have loved a continuation of the tale ala 100 Days, but from how the author left it off is fine with me. I also thought the commentary on class and the different socio-economic impacts of certain factors was great.
My only issues are that, from my watch-through of a quick summary of Jane Eyre, that there wasn’t a lot about the Red Room and they changed some things from the original tale, but the changes, in my opinion, were well done and made for a fantastic retelling of a piece of classic literature.
Verdict: A must read if you like Jane Eyre or if you like Space (or BOTH!)
Review 1:
Rating: 5/5
Genre: YA Sci-Fi/Romance/Dystopian/Retelling
Recommended Age: 15+ (violence, sexual references, dystopian like horrors, and ice age)
Pages: 400
Amazon Link
Author Website
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book as an e-arc on NetGalley. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Synopsis: Stella Ainsley leaves poverty behind when she quits her engineering job aboard the Stalwart to become a governess on a private ship. On the Rochester, there’s no water ration, more books than one person could devour in a lifetime, and an AI who seems more friend than robot.
But no one warned Stella that the ship seems to be haunted, nor that it may be involved in a conspiracy that could topple the entire interstellar fleet. Surrounded by mysteries, Stella finds her equal in the brooding but kind, nineteen-year-old Captain Hugo. When several attempts on his life spark more questions than answers, and the beautiful Bianca Ingram appears at Hugo’s request, his unpredictable behavior causes Stella’s suspicions to mount. Without knowing who to trust, Stella must decide whether to follow her head or her heart.
Alexa Donne’s lush and enthralling reimagining of the classic Jane Eyre, set among the stars, will seduce and beguile you
So… I don’t read synopses and I shortly found out after I started reading this book that it was a Jane Eyre retelling. I’m one of those horrible people that hasn’t read many classics (well, I’ve not read the popular classics) but since I was somewhat familiar with Jane Eyre from a YouTube video explaining the highlights of it, I felt I was in a good position to read it. Surprisingly though I didn’t need my limited knowledge of the book to understand what was going on. The book was written so well and so unique given its retelling status. The book didn’t feel like a retelling and unless you were either familiar with the book you wouldn’t notice it was a retelling. The book also expanded from the original story so much and it really made the story its own. The characters in the book were very well developed and what you think is going to happen is completely the opposite of what does. The book did well at doing away at some of the tired old YA clichés. The book also had so many twists and turns that you can’t tell where the book is going. Hands down, one of my favorite Sci-Fi’s to date.
However, I did think that the book could have expanded more on the world building a bit, but once again what we got in the book was really well done and adequate. I need more though and I really hope we get a companion novel to this book. Maybe a Pride and Prejudice retelling? Little Women? White Fang? Wait…
Verdict: Jane Eyre in space is cool. If only Charlotte Bronte thought of it.
Disclaimer: I own this book! Love it! It’s also signed by the author. Off-topic, sorry!
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: May 1, 2018
Genre: YA Sci-Fi
Recommended Age: 15+ (violence, scares, romance)
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers
Pages: 394
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Seventeen-year-old Stella Ainsley wants just one thing: to go somewhere—anywhere—else. Her home is a floundering spaceship that offers few prospects, having been orbiting an ice-encased Earth for two hundred years. When a private ship hires her as a governess, Stella jumps at the chance. The captain of the Rochester, nineteen-year-old Hugo Fairfax, is notorious throughout the fleet for being a moody recluse and a drunk. But with Stella he’s kind.
But the Rochester harbors secrets: Stella is certain someone is trying to kill Hugo, and the more she discovers, the more questions she has about his role in a conspiracy threatening the fleet.
Review: Oh wow this book was just as fantastic as the first time I read it! I loved the world building and how Donne thought up how life would work in a world where we’re in space because of an Ice Age (it’s a very real threat still). I love the characters and how she took the original plot from Jane Eyre and somehow transformed it into a modern (futuristic?) tale for today’s generation. I also love the writing! I would definitely have loved a continuation of the tale ala 100 Days, but from how the author left it off is fine with me. I also thought the commentary on class and the different socio-economic impacts of certain factors was great.
My only issues are that, from my watch-through of a quick summary of Jane Eyre, that there wasn’t a lot about the Red Room and they changed some things from the original tale, but the changes, in my opinion, were well done and made for a fantastic retelling of a piece of classic literature.
Verdict: A must read if you like Jane Eyre or if you like Space (or BOTH!)
Review 1:
Rating: 5/5
Genre: YA Sci-Fi/Romance/Dystopian/Retelling
Recommended Age: 15+ (violence, sexual references, dystopian like horrors, and ice age)
Pages: 400
Amazon Link
Author Website
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book as an e-arc on NetGalley. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Synopsis: Stella Ainsley leaves poverty behind when she quits her engineering job aboard the Stalwart to become a governess on a private ship. On the Rochester, there’s no water ration, more books than one person could devour in a lifetime, and an AI who seems more friend than robot.
But no one warned Stella that the ship seems to be haunted, nor that it may be involved in a conspiracy that could topple the entire interstellar fleet. Surrounded by mysteries, Stella finds her equal in the brooding but kind, nineteen-year-old Captain Hugo. When several attempts on his life spark more questions than answers, and the beautiful Bianca Ingram appears at Hugo’s request, his unpredictable behavior causes Stella’s suspicions to mount. Without knowing who to trust, Stella must decide whether to follow her head or her heart.
Alexa Donne’s lush and enthralling reimagining of the classic Jane Eyre, set among the stars, will seduce and beguile you
So… I don’t read synopses and I shortly found out after I started reading this book that it was a Jane Eyre retelling. I’m one of those horrible people that hasn’t read many classics (well, I’ve not read the popular classics) but since I was somewhat familiar with Jane Eyre from a YouTube video explaining the highlights of it, I felt I was in a good position to read it. Surprisingly though I didn’t need my limited knowledge of the book to understand what was going on. The book was written so well and so unique given its retelling status. The book didn’t feel like a retelling and unless you were either familiar with the book you wouldn’t notice it was a retelling. The book also expanded from the original story so much and it really made the story its own. The characters in the book were very well developed and what you think is going to happen is completely the opposite of what does. The book did well at doing away at some of the tired old YA clichés. The book also had so many twists and turns that you can’t tell where the book is going. Hands down, one of my favorite Sci-Fi’s to date.
However, I did think that the book could have expanded more on the world building a bit, but once again what we got in the book was really well done and adequate. I need more though and I really hope we get a companion novel to this book. Maybe a Pride and Prejudice retelling? Little Women? White Fang? Wait…
Verdict: Jane Eyre in space is cool. If only Charlotte Bronte thought of it.
Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalco
5.0
Disclaimer: I bought this book! Yay me!
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: September 20, 2016
Genre: YA Thriller
Recommended Age: 15+ (dead bodies, autopsy, violence, murder, stealing kisses in back alleyways, and "unbecoming activity")
Publisher: Jimmy Patterson
Pages: 337
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Presented by James Patterson's new children's imprint, this deliciously creepy horror novel has a storyline inspired by the Ripper murders and an unexpected, blood-chilling conclusion...
Seventeen-year-old Audrey Rose Wadsworth was born a lord's daughter, with a life of wealth and privilege stretched out before her. But between the social teas and silk dress fittings, she leads a forbidden secret life.
Against her stern father's wishes and society's expectations, Audrey often slips away to her uncle's laboratory to study the gruesome practice of forensic medicine. When her work on a string of savagely killed corpses drags Audrey into the investigation of a serial murderer, her search for answers brings her close to her own sheltered world.
The story's shocking twists and turns, augmented with real, sinister period photos, will make this dazzling, #1 New York Times bestselling debut from author Kerri Maniscalco impossible to forget.
Review: Holy shit why have I waited so long to read this book?! It's absolutely marvelous! I loved every second of this mystery thriller! The main character was all I ever wanted to be, the character development was amazing, the book was well written, the pacing wasn't too fast or too slow, and I loved the twists and turns. I was guessing the killer, and while I got it right it wasn't without several doubts.
My only complaint is that the book wrapped up a bit too quickly in the end and the aftermath wasn't really discussed. How everything was handled at the end is a mystery.
Verdict: A thriller worth the read!
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: September 20, 2016
Genre: YA Thriller
Recommended Age: 15+ (dead bodies, autopsy, violence, murder, stealing kisses in back alleyways, and "unbecoming activity")
Publisher: Jimmy Patterson
Pages: 337
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Presented by James Patterson's new children's imprint, this deliciously creepy horror novel has a storyline inspired by the Ripper murders and an unexpected, blood-chilling conclusion...
Seventeen-year-old Audrey Rose Wadsworth was born a lord's daughter, with a life of wealth and privilege stretched out before her. But between the social teas and silk dress fittings, she leads a forbidden secret life.
Against her stern father's wishes and society's expectations, Audrey often slips away to her uncle's laboratory to study the gruesome practice of forensic medicine. When her work on a string of savagely killed corpses drags Audrey into the investigation of a serial murderer, her search for answers brings her close to her own sheltered world.
The story's shocking twists and turns, augmented with real, sinister period photos, will make this dazzling, #1 New York Times bestselling debut from author Kerri Maniscalco impossible to forget.
Review: Holy shit why have I waited so long to read this book?! It's absolutely marvelous! I loved every second of this mystery thriller! The main character was all I ever wanted to be, the character development was amazing, the book was well written, the pacing wasn't too fast or too slow, and I loved the twists and turns. I was guessing the killer, and while I got it right it wasn't without several doubts.
My only complaint is that the book wrapped up a bit too quickly in the end and the aftermath wasn't really discussed. How everything was handled at the end is a mystery.
Verdict: A thriller worth the read!
Dream Keeper by Amber R. Duell
4.0
Disclaimer: I received this book from Parliament House and Rockstar Book Tours. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: January 29, 2019
Genre: YA Fantasy
Recommended Age: 16+ (vivid death scenes, violence, gore, nightmares)
Publisher: Parliament House
Pages: 288
Amazon Link
Synopsis: The Sandman is seventeen-year-old Nora’s closest friend and best-kept secret. He has to be, if she doesn’t want a one-way ticket back to the psychiatrist. It took her too long to learn not to mention the hooded figure in her dreams to her mother, who still watches Nora as if she’ll crack. So when Nora’s friends start mysteriously dying gruesome deaths in their sleep, she isn’t altogether surprised when the police direct their suspicion at her. The Sandman is the only one she can turn to for answers. But the truth might be more than she bargained for…
For the last five years, the Sandman has spent every night protecting Nora. When he hid the secret to the Nightmare Lord’s escape inside her dreams, he never expected to fall in love with her. Neither did he think his nemesis would find her so quickly, but there’s no mistaking his cruel handiwork. The Nightmare Lord is tired of playing by the rules and will do anything to release his deadly nightmares into the world, even if that means tormenting Nora until she breaks.
When the Nightmare Lord kidnaps Nora’s sister, Nora must enter enemy territory to save her. The Sandman is determined to help, but if Nora isn’t careful, she could lose even more than her family to the darkness.
Review: I really liked this book! I thought it was very well written and the plot was interesting throughout the book. I was intrigued the whole time and I thought the characters were all well developed. I got a bit of Freddy vibes too, which is always a plus to me!
However, I do feel that the love was kind of out of place and weird. Just something about it made me feel weird. The book was also way too short and I feel like there was a lot of stuff crammed into a small amount of space. The death scenes are also horrific and vivid, so definitely not for the faint of heart!
Verdict: Don’t go to sleep!
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: January 29, 2019
Genre: YA Fantasy
Recommended Age: 16+ (vivid death scenes, violence, gore, nightmares)
Publisher: Parliament House
Pages: 288
Amazon Link
Synopsis: The Sandman is seventeen-year-old Nora’s closest friend and best-kept secret. He has to be, if she doesn’t want a one-way ticket back to the psychiatrist. It took her too long to learn not to mention the hooded figure in her dreams to her mother, who still watches Nora as if she’ll crack. So when Nora’s friends start mysteriously dying gruesome deaths in their sleep, she isn’t altogether surprised when the police direct their suspicion at her. The Sandman is the only one she can turn to for answers. But the truth might be more than she bargained for…
For the last five years, the Sandman has spent every night protecting Nora. When he hid the secret to the Nightmare Lord’s escape inside her dreams, he never expected to fall in love with her. Neither did he think his nemesis would find her so quickly, but there’s no mistaking his cruel handiwork. The Nightmare Lord is tired of playing by the rules and will do anything to release his deadly nightmares into the world, even if that means tormenting Nora until she breaks.
When the Nightmare Lord kidnaps Nora’s sister, Nora must enter enemy territory to save her. The Sandman is determined to help, but if Nora isn’t careful, she could lose even more than her family to the darkness.
Review: I really liked this book! I thought it was very well written and the plot was interesting throughout the book. I was intrigued the whole time and I thought the characters were all well developed. I got a bit of Freddy vibes too, which is always a plus to me!
However, I do feel that the love was kind of out of place and weird. Just something about it made me feel weird. The book was also way too short and I feel like there was a lot of stuff crammed into a small amount of space. The death scenes are also horrific and vivid, so definitely not for the faint of heart!
Verdict: Don’t go to sleep!
Once & Future by A.R. Capetta, Cory McCarthy
5.0
Disclaimer: I received this book from Little, Brown and Company/Jimmy Patterson Presents. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book Series: Book 1 of Once & Future
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: March 26, 2019
Genre: YA Fantasy
Recommended Age: 16+ (sex, language, magic, sassy swords, and sarcastic main characters)
Publisher: Jimmy Patterson Presents
Pages: 336
Amazon Link
Synopsis: I’ve been chased my whole life. As a fugitive refugee in the territory controlled by the tyrannical Mercer corporation, I’ve always had to hide who I am. Until I found Excalibur.
Now I’m done hiding.
My name is Ari Helix. I have a magic sword, a cranky wizard, and a revolution to start.
When Ari crash-lands on Old Earth and pulls a magic sword from its ancient resting place, she is revealed to be the newest reincarnation of King Arthur. Then she meets Merlin, who has aged backward over the centuries into a teenager, and together they must break the curse that keeps Arthur coming back. Their quest? Defeat the cruel, oppressive government and bring peace and equality to all humankind.
No pressure.
Review: I really enjoyed this book! I’ve never read a King Arthur retelling and I loved the girl power take on the classic tale. The book was highly imaginative and amazing. The cast was diverse (non-binary, lesbian, bi, ace, gay, and the main character is Arab). The book was well written and the world building was amazingly well done. The plot was intriguing and entertaining throughout the novel. I could just go on and on about how amazing this book was. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
However, I do feel that the book focused a bit too much on the romance and I wish the magic was a bit more explained. I also feel that the book was a bit confusing towards the end and it felt a bit ex machina. Still can’t wait to read the next book though!
Verdict: Queer and loving it!
Book Series: Book 1 of Once & Future
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: March 26, 2019
Genre: YA Fantasy
Recommended Age: 16+ (sex, language, magic, sassy swords, and sarcastic main characters)
Publisher: Jimmy Patterson Presents
Pages: 336
Amazon Link
Synopsis: I’ve been chased my whole life. As a fugitive refugee in the territory controlled by the tyrannical Mercer corporation, I’ve always had to hide who I am. Until I found Excalibur.
Now I’m done hiding.
My name is Ari Helix. I have a magic sword, a cranky wizard, and a revolution to start.
When Ari crash-lands on Old Earth and pulls a magic sword from its ancient resting place, she is revealed to be the newest reincarnation of King Arthur. Then she meets Merlin, who has aged backward over the centuries into a teenager, and together they must break the curse that keeps Arthur coming back. Their quest? Defeat the cruel, oppressive government and bring peace and equality to all humankind.
No pressure.
Review: I really enjoyed this book! I’ve never read a King Arthur retelling and I loved the girl power take on the classic tale. The book was highly imaginative and amazing. The cast was diverse (non-binary, lesbian, bi, ace, gay, and the main character is Arab). The book was well written and the world building was amazingly well done. The plot was intriguing and entertaining throughout the novel. I could just go on and on about how amazing this book was. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
However, I do feel that the book focused a bit too much on the romance and I wish the magic was a bit more explained. I also feel that the book was a bit confusing towards the end and it felt a bit ex machina. Still can’t wait to read the next book though!
Verdict: Queer and loving it!
Our Dried Voices by Greg Hickey
3.0
Disclaimer: I received this book from the author. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book Series: standalone
Rating: 3/5
Publication Date: November 4, 2014
Genre: Sci-fi
Recommended Age: 16+ (violence, terrorist like acts, slight gore)
Publisher: Scribe Publishing Company
Pages: 234
Amazon Link
Synopsis: In 2153, cancer was cured. In 2189, AIDS. And in 2235, the last members of the human race traveled to a far distant planet called Pearl to begin the next chapter of humanity.
Several hundred years after their arrival, the remainder of humanity lives in a utopian colony in which every want is satisfied automatically, and there is no need for human labor, struggle or thought. But when the machines that regulate the colony begin to malfunction, the colonists are faced with a test for the first time in their existence.
With the lives of the colonists at stake, it is left to a young man named Samuel to repair these breakdowns and save the colony. Aided by his friend Penny, Samuel rises to meet each challenge. But he soon discovers a mysterious group of people behind each of these problems, and he must somehow find and defeat these saboteurs in order to rescue his colony.
Review: I thought this book was pretty good! It’s a dystopian novel that takes place on a different planet and I love dystopians. I thought the book was interesting. The plot was exciting and I think the author did great with the world building. The pacing was fast and this book really flew!
However, I do feel that the book had really underdeveloped characters. I think it could have slowed down greatly and developed some of the characters some more. I think that the book could have used slowing down altogether to make the book a bit more suspenseful and impactful. It just flew by so fast that I didn’t feel connected to the book.
Verdict: A pretty good book! Definitely a great one for dystopian lovers.
Book Series: standalone
Rating: 3/5
Publication Date: November 4, 2014
Genre: Sci-fi
Recommended Age: 16+ (violence, terrorist like acts, slight gore)
Publisher: Scribe Publishing Company
Pages: 234
Amazon Link
Synopsis: In 2153, cancer was cured. In 2189, AIDS. And in 2235, the last members of the human race traveled to a far distant planet called Pearl to begin the next chapter of humanity.
Several hundred years after their arrival, the remainder of humanity lives in a utopian colony in which every want is satisfied automatically, and there is no need for human labor, struggle or thought. But when the machines that regulate the colony begin to malfunction, the colonists are faced with a test for the first time in their existence.
With the lives of the colonists at stake, it is left to a young man named Samuel to repair these breakdowns and save the colony. Aided by his friend Penny, Samuel rises to meet each challenge. But he soon discovers a mysterious group of people behind each of these problems, and he must somehow find and defeat these saboteurs in order to rescue his colony.
Review: I thought this book was pretty good! It’s a dystopian novel that takes place on a different planet and I love dystopians. I thought the book was interesting. The plot was exciting and I think the author did great with the world building. The pacing was fast and this book really flew!
However, I do feel that the book had really underdeveloped characters. I think it could have slowed down greatly and developed some of the characters some more. I think that the book could have used slowing down altogether to make the book a bit more suspenseful and impactful. It just flew by so fast that I didn’t feel connected to the book.
Verdict: A pretty good book! Definitely a great one for dystopian lovers.
The Black Coats by Colleen Oakes
2.0
Disclaimer: I received this book from BookSparks and HarperTeen. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 2.5/5
Publication Date: February 12, 2019
Genre: YA Contemporary
Recommended Age: 16+ (rape, rape culture, drug intake, sexual assault, suicide, suicidal thoughts, abuse, language, violence, slight gore)
Publisher: HarperTeen
Pages: 400
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Roses are read, violets are blue, if you hurt us, we’re coming for you.
The deeply secretive Black Coats have been exacting vengeance on men who hurt girls and women for years. And Thea has just received an invitation to join them. This is the opportunity she’s been waiting for to finally get justice for her cousin Natalie, whose killer went free.
Thea dives head first into the group, training every day with other girls whose stories rival hers. Together they carry out Balancings—acts of revenge guaranteed to teach a lesson. With every predator threatened, every blackmailer exposed, and every date rapist punished, Thea can feel herself getting closer to avenging Natalie’s death.
But then the Balancings begin to escalate in brutality, and Thea discovers that the Black Coats are not all they seem to be. Thea must confront just how far she’s willing to go for justice—and what kind of justice Natalie, and Thea herself, deserve. Because when the line between justice and revenge is razor thin, it’s hard not to get cut.
Review: Okay so for the most part this was a good book. The book was well written and the characters were pretty well developed. The book was fast, so this would be an excellent book to read in one sitting. The plot was intriguing and if you’re a big fan of action/spy books then you would more than likely love this book.
However, I have some slight issues with this book. There is a rape scene about 4 pages into the book and from what I could see there’s no trigger warning in the beginning of the book. I feel this can upset or trigger some people reading it that are unaware of this. There are also suicidal thoughts and tendencies presented in the book as well as drug use, so be careful reading this one. The book is really unrealistic. There is almost no mention of parents or cops being around. The book is also really slow. I’m mainly worried about the use of revenge in this book. Vigilantism is a problem in criminal justice and it can get people killed or in trouble with the law themselves. The book uses revenge as a means to get justice via online bullying or other means. This could cause kids to seek out and perform the same things in the name of “justice”, but two wrongs don’t make a right. As someone who has a masters in criminal justice and who has worked with juvenile justice programs, the majority of kids who do really stupid things like fighting or bullying are often suffering from problems at home. They oftentimes live a rough home life where they are sometimes abused themselves. Their cry for help is to act out on others. To perform vigilante justice on these bullies that more than likely need help can cause some severe issues to happen. The way to heal from being bullied is to find retribution, not revenge. I’m also worried about how Adam Porter was excused for being a cop. The book acknowledges racism, but I didn’t like how it discarded the fact that a majority of cops in America are perpetrators of domestic violence. In fact, when reading this book I looked over at some news articles on my phone and saw three instances where cops displayed racism and/or deliberately covered up crimes to cover their own asses. Being a cop in this day and age doesn’t excuse you for anything anymore. Also there’s a slight plot hole where an adopted child is said to look so much like their adopted mother.
Verdict: A really action packed book, definitely for fans of Moxie. I feel like the book is amazing and did well to explain the racism that exists and will definitely empower people, but it might have missed the mark a bit.
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 2.5/5
Publication Date: February 12, 2019
Genre: YA Contemporary
Recommended Age: 16+ (rape, rape culture, drug intake, sexual assault, suicide, suicidal thoughts, abuse, language, violence, slight gore)
Publisher: HarperTeen
Pages: 400
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Roses are read, violets are blue, if you hurt us, we’re coming for you.
The deeply secretive Black Coats have been exacting vengeance on men who hurt girls and women for years. And Thea has just received an invitation to join them. This is the opportunity she’s been waiting for to finally get justice for her cousin Natalie, whose killer went free.
Thea dives head first into the group, training every day with other girls whose stories rival hers. Together they carry out Balancings—acts of revenge guaranteed to teach a lesson. With every predator threatened, every blackmailer exposed, and every date rapist punished, Thea can feel herself getting closer to avenging Natalie’s death.
But then the Balancings begin to escalate in brutality, and Thea discovers that the Black Coats are not all they seem to be. Thea must confront just how far she’s willing to go for justice—and what kind of justice Natalie, and Thea herself, deserve. Because when the line between justice and revenge is razor thin, it’s hard not to get cut.
Review: Okay so for the most part this was a good book. The book was well written and the characters were pretty well developed. The book was fast, so this would be an excellent book to read in one sitting. The plot was intriguing and if you’re a big fan of action/spy books then you would more than likely love this book.
However, I have some slight issues with this book. There is a rape scene about 4 pages into the book and from what I could see there’s no trigger warning in the beginning of the book. I feel this can upset or trigger some people reading it that are unaware of this. There are also suicidal thoughts and tendencies presented in the book as well as drug use, so be careful reading this one. The book is really unrealistic. There is almost no mention of parents or cops being around. The book is also really slow. I’m mainly worried about the use of revenge in this book. Vigilantism is a problem in criminal justice and it can get people killed or in trouble with the law themselves. The book uses revenge as a means to get justice via online bullying or other means. This could cause kids to seek out and perform the same things in the name of “justice”, but two wrongs don’t make a right. As someone who has a masters in criminal justice and who has worked with juvenile justice programs, the majority of kids who do really stupid things like fighting or bullying are often suffering from problems at home. They oftentimes live a rough home life where they are sometimes abused themselves. Their cry for help is to act out on others. To perform vigilante justice on these bullies that more than likely need help can cause some severe issues to happen. The way to heal from being bullied is to find retribution, not revenge. I’m also worried about how Adam Porter was excused for being a cop. The book acknowledges racism, but I didn’t like how it discarded the fact that a majority of cops in America are perpetrators of domestic violence. In fact, when reading this book I looked over at some news articles on my phone and saw three instances where cops displayed racism and/or deliberately covered up crimes to cover their own asses. Being a cop in this day and age doesn’t excuse you for anything anymore. Also there’s a slight plot hole where an adopted child is said to look so much like their adopted mother.
Verdict: A really action packed book, definitely for fans of Moxie. I feel like the book is amazing and did well to explain the racism that exists and will definitely empower people, but it might have missed the mark a bit.
The Center of the Universe by Ria Voros
4.0
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the publisher and RockStarBookTours. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: April 2, 2019
Genre: YA Contemporary/Thriller
Recommended Age: 15+ (TW for kidnapping, TW for potential rape, PTSD, sex, and I think there was some small language in this book)
Publisher: KCP Loft
Pages: 506
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Grace Carter's mother --- the celebrity news anchor GG Carter --- is everything Grace is not. GG is a star, with a flawless wardrobe and a following of thousands, while Grace --- an aspiring astrophysicist --- is into stars of another kind. She and her mother have always been in different orbits. Then one day GG is just ... gone. Cameras descend on their house, news shows speculate about what might have happened and Grace's family struggles to find a new rhythm as they wait for answers. While the authorities unravel the mystery behind GG's disappearance, Grace grows closer to her high school's golden boy, Mylo, who has faced a black hole of his own. She also uncovers some secrets from her mother's long-lost past. The more Grace learns, the more she wonders. Did she ever really know her mother? Was GG abducted ... or did she leave? And if she left, why?
Review: For the most part I liked this book. I thought it was well written and it was great to see a tragedy from the perspective of a family effected by it instead of from the viewpoint of the victim. It was realistic and raw. I felt that the character development was great.
However, I did have some issues. I really didn’t like all the misinformation in the book. At one point in the book the father mentions how you had to wait 3 days to report a missing person. This is entirely false. The book is set in Canada and according to the websites I went to, including a government website, it advises people to report missing persons ASAP no matter their age. I usually hear of a 24 hour rule, which is a complete myth and here is why: The first 24 hours in a missing persons case is the most crucial to a case and to the victims life. Your chance of survival and of being rescued decreases significantly after 24 hours is up. I feel it is essential to inform people of the correct times to report missing persons as this can easily mean the difference between life and death for someone you saw/suspect getting kidnapped. The fact that the father waited three days to report the mother missing was very annoying as well. If you think a loved one is in danger or you don’t know where they are PLEASE CALL 911. Another misinformation in the book is that the children in this book were allowed to be interviewed without parental consent. While I’m not exactly sure of the ages of the children as well as the age of majority in Canada, this is a complete falsehood as well. Children have to have a parent or guardian present, even if one of their parents is a suspect.
The back and forth of the time is confusing at first and it takes a bit to get used to. The length for this type of book is really long too, but I’m unsure of how the author could have reduced it. I felt like the book needed to be that long, but it also felt like it was too long as well? It’s a confusing feeling.
Verdict: I recommend this for the mix of contemporary and thriller.
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: April 2, 2019
Genre: YA Contemporary/Thriller
Recommended Age: 15+ (TW for kidnapping, TW for potential rape, PTSD, sex, and I think there was some small language in this book)
Publisher: KCP Loft
Pages: 506
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Grace Carter's mother --- the celebrity news anchor GG Carter --- is everything Grace is not. GG is a star, with a flawless wardrobe and a following of thousands, while Grace --- an aspiring astrophysicist --- is into stars of another kind. She and her mother have always been in different orbits. Then one day GG is just ... gone. Cameras descend on their house, news shows speculate about what might have happened and Grace's family struggles to find a new rhythm as they wait for answers. While the authorities unravel the mystery behind GG's disappearance, Grace grows closer to her high school's golden boy, Mylo, who has faced a black hole of his own. She also uncovers some secrets from her mother's long-lost past. The more Grace learns, the more she wonders. Did she ever really know her mother? Was GG abducted ... or did she leave? And if she left, why?
Review: For the most part I liked this book. I thought it was well written and it was great to see a tragedy from the perspective of a family effected by it instead of from the viewpoint of the victim. It was realistic and raw. I felt that the character development was great.
However, I did have some issues. I really didn’t like all the misinformation in the book. At one point in the book the father mentions how you had to wait 3 days to report a missing person. This is entirely false. The book is set in Canada and according to the websites I went to, including a government website, it advises people to report missing persons ASAP no matter their age. I usually hear of a 24 hour rule, which is a complete myth and here is why: The first 24 hours in a missing persons case is the most crucial to a case and to the victims life. Your chance of survival and of being rescued decreases significantly after 24 hours is up. I feel it is essential to inform people of the correct times to report missing persons as this can easily mean the difference between life and death for someone you saw/suspect getting kidnapped. The fact that the father waited three days to report the mother missing was very annoying as well. If you think a loved one is in danger or you don’t know where they are PLEASE CALL 911. Another misinformation in the book is that the children in this book were allowed to be interviewed without parental consent. While I’m not exactly sure of the ages of the children as well as the age of majority in Canada, this is a complete falsehood as well. Children have to have a parent or guardian present, even if one of their parents is a suspect.
The back and forth of the time is confusing at first and it takes a bit to get used to. The length for this type of book is really long too, but I’m unsure of how the author could have reduced it. I felt like the book needed to be that long, but it also felt like it was too long as well? It’s a confusing feeling.
Verdict: I recommend this for the mix of contemporary and thriller.
The Princess and the Fangirl by Ashley Poston
5.0
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from Quirk Books and Netgalley! I got an e-arc from Netgalley and the physical from Quirk Books! Thank you guys so so much! All opinions are my own.
Book Series: Once Upon a Con #2
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: April 2, 2019
Genre: YA Retelling/Contemporary Romance
Recommended Age: 13+ (slightly mature romance scenes, slight sexual assault, sexual harassment, some language, and a naked cat)
Publisher: Quirk Books
Pages: 320
Amazon Link
Synopsis: The Prince and the Pauper gets a modern makeover in this adorable, witty, and heartwarming young adult novel set in the Geekerella universe by national bestselling author Ashley Poston.
Imogen Lovelace is an ordinary fangirl on an impossible mission: save her favorite character, Princess Amara, from being killed off from her favorite franchise, Starfield. The problem is, Jessica Stone—the actress who plays Princess Amara—wants nothing more than to leave the intense scrutiny of the fandom behind. If this year's ExcelsiCon isn't her last, she'll consider her career derailed.
When a case of mistaken identity throws look-a-likes Imogen and Jess together, they quickly become enemies. But when the script for the Starfield sequel leaks, and all signs point to Jess, she and Imogen must trade places to find the person responsible. That's easier said than done when the girls step into each other's shoes and discover new romantic possibilities, as well as the other side of intense fandom. As these "princesses" race to find the script-leaker, they must rescue themselves from their own expectations, and redefine what it means to live happily ever after.
Review: Holy cow Batman! How can I sum up how much I loved this side story/sequel to Geekerella? I loved it so freaking much. The story was well thought out and I loved how it was a Prince and the Pauper retelling. The writing was incredible, Ashley Poston is a force to be reckoned with, so watch out SJM! The characters were well developed and this book just made my little geek heart happy. I also loved how Poston drove home the injustice of fan-people when it comes any strong female character. It’s hard to be a female in the fandom world and I’ve read more than a dozen comments discussing the actress’ breast size and how she’d be better if she supported this male character and how the exact color of her hair does not match the characters and blah blah blah. But you remake Spiderman 40 times and no one complains (except me. I complain. Shameik Moore as Miles Morales is better than Tobey Maguire any day and don’t even get me started on how much we need a Gwen Stacey movie). I think the sexism among some of the fandoms is really sad. We can have the strong female character and the strong male character and the even stronger non-gender conforming character. We don’t need to have these archaic notions of what men can do compared to women and, in my opinion, if you choose to keep those beliefs then you won’t progress as a person in the future. The future is inclusive and we see success and strength in all, not just some.
If I had to choose a working point of this book I’d have to say that I think it’s great, but I wish that the relationships were expanded a bit more. Poston had enough material to go another 100 pages easily and I would have enjoyed them. As is the book is great, but I just want more of the couples.
Verdict: A definite must read!
Book Series: Once Upon a Con #2
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: April 2, 2019
Genre: YA Retelling/Contemporary Romance
Recommended Age: 13+ (slightly mature romance scenes, slight sexual assault, sexual harassment, some language, and a naked cat)
Publisher: Quirk Books
Pages: 320
Amazon Link
Synopsis: The Prince and the Pauper gets a modern makeover in this adorable, witty, and heartwarming young adult novel set in the Geekerella universe by national bestselling author Ashley Poston.
Imogen Lovelace is an ordinary fangirl on an impossible mission: save her favorite character, Princess Amara, from being killed off from her favorite franchise, Starfield. The problem is, Jessica Stone—the actress who plays Princess Amara—wants nothing more than to leave the intense scrutiny of the fandom behind. If this year's ExcelsiCon isn't her last, she'll consider her career derailed.
When a case of mistaken identity throws look-a-likes Imogen and Jess together, they quickly become enemies. But when the script for the Starfield sequel leaks, and all signs point to Jess, she and Imogen must trade places to find the person responsible. That's easier said than done when the girls step into each other's shoes and discover new romantic possibilities, as well as the other side of intense fandom. As these "princesses" race to find the script-leaker, they must rescue themselves from their own expectations, and redefine what it means to live happily ever after.
Review: Holy cow Batman! How can I sum up how much I loved this side story/sequel to Geekerella? I loved it so freaking much. The story was well thought out and I loved how it was a Prince and the Pauper retelling. The writing was incredible, Ashley Poston is a force to be reckoned with, so watch out SJM! The characters were well developed and this book just made my little geek heart happy. I also loved how Poston drove home the injustice of fan-people when it comes any strong female character. It’s hard to be a female in the fandom world and I’ve read more than a dozen comments discussing the actress’ breast size and how she’d be better if she supported this male character and how the exact color of her hair does not match the characters and blah blah blah. But you remake Spiderman 40 times and no one complains (except me. I complain. Shameik Moore as Miles Morales is better than Tobey Maguire any day and don’t even get me started on how much we need a Gwen Stacey movie). I think the sexism among some of the fandoms is really sad. We can have the strong female character and the strong male character and the even stronger non-gender conforming character. We don’t need to have these archaic notions of what men can do compared to women and, in my opinion, if you choose to keep those beliefs then you won’t progress as a person in the future. The future is inclusive and we see success and strength in all, not just some.
If I had to choose a working point of this book I’d have to say that I think it’s great, but I wish that the relationships were expanded a bit more. Poston had enough material to go another 100 pages easily and I would have enjoyed them. As is the book is great, but I just want more of the couples.
Verdict: A definite must read!
To All the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han
5.0
Disclaimer: I bought this on my own! Support your authors!
Book Series: To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: April 15, 2014
Genre: YA Contemporary
Recommended Age: 13+ (cliché romance and love triangles, also small cuss words)
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Pages: 355
Amazon Link
Synopsis: To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before is the story of Lara Jean, who has never openly admitted her crushes, but instead wrote each boy a letter about how she felt, sealed it, and hid it in a box under her bed. But one day Lara Jean discovers that somehow her secret box of letters has been mailed, causing all her crushes from her past to confront her about the letters: her first kiss, the boy from summer camp, even her sister's ex-boyfriend, Josh. As she learns to deal with her past loves face to face, Lara Jean discovers that something good may come out of these letters after all.
Review: How adorable is this book?? I felt like the writing was like how you would write in a diary, very personal and very intimate. The book has a clear, distinct voice, and it’s not just a romance book. The book talks about families and sisterhood as well. The book also brought up good points about bullying, stigmatism, and slut shaming.
However, I felt like the book sort of ended abruptly and that it didn’t give the reader a chance to really understand what was going through Lara Jean’s head.
Verdict: I love Lara Jean.
Book Series: To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: April 15, 2014
Genre: YA Contemporary
Recommended Age: 13+ (cliché romance and love triangles, also small cuss words)
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Pages: 355
Amazon Link
Synopsis: To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before is the story of Lara Jean, who has never openly admitted her crushes, but instead wrote each boy a letter about how she felt, sealed it, and hid it in a box under her bed. But one day Lara Jean discovers that somehow her secret box of letters has been mailed, causing all her crushes from her past to confront her about the letters: her first kiss, the boy from summer camp, even her sister's ex-boyfriend, Josh. As she learns to deal with her past loves face to face, Lara Jean discovers that something good may come out of these letters after all.
Review: How adorable is this book?? I felt like the writing was like how you would write in a diary, very personal and very intimate. The book has a clear, distinct voice, and it’s not just a romance book. The book talks about families and sisterhood as well. The book also brought up good points about bullying, stigmatism, and slut shaming.
However, I felt like the book sort of ended abruptly and that it didn’t give the reader a chance to really understand what was going through Lara Jean’s head.
Verdict: I love Lara Jean.