Nyxia Unleased by Scott Reintgen
*I received an ARC of Nyxia Unleashed through Netgalley, but this in no way affected my honest opinion about the book.*
Synopsis: "Getting to Eden brought Emmett and his crewmates one step closer to their promised fortune. But surviving Eden may be the biggest reward of all. Discover book two in the trilogy Marie Lu called, “a high-octance thriller.” Emmett Atwater thought Babel’s game sounded easy. Get points. Get paid. Go home. But it didn’t take long for him to learn that Babel’s competition was full of broken promises, none darker or more damaging than the last one. Now Emmett and the rest of the Genesis survivors must rally and forge their own path through a new world. Their mission from Babel is simple: extract nyxia, the most valuable material in the universe, and play nice with the indigenous Adamite population. But Emmett and the others quickly realize they are caught between two powerful forces—Babel and the Adamites—with clashing desires. Will the Genesis team make it out alive before it’s too late?" Review: This book took me way too long to pick up. Life got in the way and I also decided to reread the first book in the series to catch up on all that had happened. Despite how long it took for me to finally pick up this book, this series fascinates me because I am not the biggest sci-fi fan, but this series has truly made me read page after page. (As proven with me finishing this novel in a day after I decided to actually start reading.) Emmett enters the world of the Adamites in this novel and goes through lots of adventure and even some romance! The relationships between the Genesis crew and Babel or with the crew and the Adamites is something that really builds in this novel. It also reveals a different kind of connection between Genesis and Babel and if you thought there were secrets in the first novel, be prepared to encounter even more! Death played a huge role in this series from the first novel, Nyxia, and again in this one, death pushes them apart or back together. Even though the deaths are tragic, they really push the plot and help develop the characters. I loved the adventure, the emotion, the crazy dynamics, but I really loved the world building. One of the main reasons I prefer fantasy novels to sci-fi is because of the fascinating different worlds, but Nyxia Unleashed had it all! From the unique new foods, to the interesting social ranks, this was a part of the novel that really kept me reading. Reading this sequel really reminded why I enjoyed the first novel so much and now I can't wait for the third book in this series! Cover: ★★★★★ (I MEAN ...WOW just look at it!) Favorite Quotes:
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LIFEL1K3 by Jay Kristoff
*I received an ARC of LIFEL1K3 through Netgalley, but this in no way affected my honest opinion about the book.*
Synopsis: "On a floating junkyard beneath a radiation sky, a deadly secret lies buried in the scrap. Eve isn’t looking for secrets—she’s too busy looking over her shoulder. The robot gladiator she’s just spent six months building has been reduced to a smoking wreck, and the only thing keeping her Grandpa from the grave was the fistful of credits she just lost to the bookies. To top it off, she’s discovered she can destroy electronics with the power of her mind, and the puritanical Brotherhood are building a coffin her size. If she’s ever had a worse day, Eve can’t remember it. But when Eve discovers the ruins of an android boy named Ezekiel in the scrap pile she calls home, her entire world comes crashing down. With her best friend Lemon Fresh and her robotic conscience, Cricket, in tow, she and Ezekiel will trek across deserts of irradiated glass, infiltrate towering megacities and scour the graveyard of humanity’s greatest folly to save the ones Eve loves, and learn the dark secrets of her past. Even if those secrets were better off staying buried." Review: I have to be honest, I went into this book not really excited because I've read a couple sci-fi books every now and then, but it's not my FAVORITE genre. It is also very steampunk, which I've never really delved into. DESPITE ALL OF THIS, I knew I had to give it a try because Nevernight is one of my absolute favorite books and I couldn't be more grateful I picked this up because it was one crazy adventure! Each great book has a reason why it's so loved, and for this novel, for me, it was the characters. Here's why:
I actually have to admit about 3/4th of the way through I felt a little disappointed: I loved the characters, but everything felt so stereotypical, but no worries the last quarter really picked everything up and I was completely surprised by all the twists! Overall, I have to say that this book really surprised me, in a good way. Even if you're not sure you'll like it, try it out, you might just change your mind! Cover: ★★★★☆ Favorite Quote(s):
Legendary by Stephanie Garber
Synopsis: "Stephanie Garber’s limitless imagination takes flight once more in the colorful, mesmerizing, and immersive sequel to the bestselling breakout debut Caraval
A heart to protect. A debt to repay. A game to win. After being swept up in the magical world of Caraval, Donatella Dragna has finally escaped her father and saved her sister Scarlett from a disastrous arranged marriage. The girls should be celebrating, but Tella isn’t yet free. She made a desperate bargain with a mysterious criminal, and what Tella owes him no one has ever been able to deliver: Caraval Master Legend’s true name. The only chance of uncovering Legend’s identity is to win Caraval, so Tella throws herself into the legendary competition once more—and into the path of the murderous heir to the throne, a doomed love story, and a web of secrets…including her sister's. Caraval has always demanded bravery, cunning, and sacrifice. But now the game is asking for more. If Tella can’t fulfill her bargain and deliver Legend’s name, she’ll lose everything she cares about—maybe even her life. But if she wins, Legend and Caraval will be destroyed forever. Welcome, welcome to Caraval...the games have only just begun." Review: Sometimes a sequel can really fall flat, but LEGENDARY DID NOT DISAPPOINT. While Caraval was through Scarlett's view, Legendary takes the reader through Tella's POV and at first I was hesitant, but I loved it after just a few pages in. The first book had me completely unable to predict the plot, but Legendary was more predictable (not in a bad way, in the way that I finally understood how this world works). I did guess a couple of large points, but it only made it more rewarding when it turned out to be true. I think the plot was actually more interesting in the book, because the first book was all about this beautiful introduction to the crazy, gorgeous world of Caraval. This book also had lots of stunning descriptions, but the plot moved quicker and with more intensity, picking up the pace from the previous novel. The characters not really touched upon with Scarlett's POV, come to life in this sequel. It is absolutely amazing to delve into more characters than Scarlett and Julian. Tella has a whole different outlook on life and her circle of people in this book is so different and unique that we barely see Scarlett. And though I missed Scarlett, the new characters and plot twists took all of my time and energy I couldn't really have a moment to miss Scarlett. Also the romance, as much as I loved the romance in the first novel, something about this novel was even more enthralling. I won't reveal who's with who, but let's just say I was fangirling the entire time (butterflies and everything). Overall, if you're scared Legendary won't live up to Caraval, don't worry it's even better. If you haven't read Caraval yet, then go go go! Cover: ★★★★★ Favorite Quote(s):
*I received an ARC of the witch doesn't burn in this one through Netgalley, but this in no way affected my honest opinion about the book.* Synopsis: "The witch: supernaturally powerful, inscrutably independent, and now—indestructible. These moving, relatable poems encourage resilience and embolden women to take control of their own stories. Enemies try to judge, oppress, and marginalize her, but the witch doesn’t burn in this one." Review: Amanda Lovelace has won my respect and my heart after a rollercoaster of a collection of poems in her first book, the princess saves herself in this one, and this following collection only adds to that. After her first novel that went over the many events of her life, I was able to grasp a portion of her life and it felt so full coverage I was wondering where she would go next with this book. She went deep and right into feminism and I couldn't have been happier and more appreciative. Empowerment is more important than ever and so is speaking up about women's rights and equality, especially as seen with all the talk of movements like #MeToo and the Women's March. The entire collection was also incredibly relatable. Her first book was relatable but applied pretty specifically to the events she lived through, but this one spread to include what many women face daily. I felt such a strong connection to these words and they really tugged at my heart and pushed my brain and I could feel this string that tied all women together: the experiences I had went through without even realizing how many other girls did too .(Not the cases like rape or catcalling necessarily but the more of the subtle things of being told to smile, subconsciously taking up less space, etc.) I know guys might be like, I'm not a girl why should I read this, but I would recommend for boys to read this as well, it shows you just how much women have to go through to reach the equality most guys are born with. Girls, please pick this up, you deserve to know how powerful you are, despite race, religion, physical appearance, etc. , because women truly are some kind of magic. Cover: ★★★★★ Favorite Quote(s): I would quote this entire book if I could, but I can't so I had to REALLY cut down. "self-love is not an instant or overnight evolution" "confidence isn't egotism." "safety has never been our privilege" Meet Cute: Some People Are Destined to Meet
*I received an ARC of Meet Cute through Netgalley from HMH Books for Young Readers, but this in no way affected my honest opinion about the book.*
Synopsis: "Whether or not you believe in fate, or luck, or love at first sight, every romance has to start somewhere. MEET CUTE is an anthology of original short stories featuring tales of "how they first met" from some of today’s most popular YA authors. Readers will experience Nina LaCour's beautifully written piece about two Bay Area girls meeting via a cranky customer service Tweet, Sara Shepard's glossy tale about a magazine intern and a young rock star, Nicola Yoon's imaginative take on break-ups and make-ups, Katie Cotugno's story of two teens hiding out from the police at a house party, and Huntley Fitzpatrick's charming love story that begins over iced teas at a diner. There’s futuristic flirting from Kass Morgan and Katharine McGee, a riveting transgender heroine from Meredith Russo, a subway missed connection moment from Jocelyn Davies, and a girl determined to get out of her small town from Ibi Zoboi. Jennifer Armentrout writes a sweet story about finding love from a missing library book, Emery Lord has a heartwarming and funny tale of two girls stuck in an airport, Dhonielle Clayton takes a thoughtful, speculate approach to pre-destined love, and Julie Murphy dreams up a fun twist on reality dating show contestants. This incredibly talented group of authors brings us a collection of stories that are at turns romantic and witty, epic and everyday, heartbreaking and real." Review: Meet Cute is an adorable collection of real representations of people and the different kinds of romance stories in this world. I first heard of it earlier this year and I have been extremely excited to pick it up ever since! Not only was the idea creative, but it also features so many amazing authors! MEET CUTE DEFINITELY LIVED UP TO MY EXPECTATIONS AND IT’S NAME, (It was SO cute and let’s see how many times I can’t avoid that word throughout this world) I don’t want to give away the amazing short stories so, first, here was a list of the stories in order of the stories I liked the most. (Though I enjoyed all of them and even though I chose an order I love them all so much and the order changes with every moment!)
As one of my most highly anticipated books ( I have had the poster hanging on my bedroom wall since may after yallwest ) it’s amazing to know that I WAS NOT EVEN CLOSE TO BEING DISAPPOINTED. In fact, even with so much anticipation my heart strings were tugged on, and I was a bundle of feels when reading this. This collection also was such a quick and easy read yet so full of beautifully written gems that I plan to read OVER AND OVER and when the book is published (January 2nd 2018- SAVE THE DATE) don’t forget to check it out! You won’t regret it! Cover: ★★★★★// AND THE PINS ARE EVEN MORE ADORABLE Favorite Quote(s): "You're dimly aware, that you're making him up in your mind even as he's sitting here, like you're writing yourself into a story." "Maybe it doesn't matter. Maybe for as long as you're in here, you can both be whoever you want." "He couldn't take a decent picture of something without falling in love with it, at least a little." "the world wasn't supposed to be in the hands of just one person." "We love so early here. And it feels like there isn't enough time to do all the things I want to do before I have to do the things I'm supposed to do." "Some people you want to get to know and some people you want to know you." Branded by Eric Smith
*I received an ARC of Branded from Netgalley, but this in no way affected my honest opinion about the book.*
Synopsis: "Eric Smith returns to the world of Inked in this adventurous new sequel. No longer a sheltered farmboy, Caenum is caught in the crossfire of the rebellion he ignited. As the final battle with the Citadel approaches, he must choose his own destiny one last time…or let the Citadel choose it for him." Review: When I first received this book I was STOKED. Inked (the first novel) was an absolute amazing novel and I was incredibly excited to see what was going to happen next! Reading this novel however, I found both good and bad surprises. Starting with the bad news, I found that I preferred the first novel to Branded. Inked was full of world building and although Branded introduces some new characters I didn't feel like enough of the world was developed for the reader. This sucked because the settings sounded cool, but there could be so many interesting details. I also found that this novel would fare much better as a movie. Lots of pieces felt awkward and only included one perspective. If Branded became a movie I feel like it would be incredibly interesting for not only the plot, but also by providing those extra details about the landscape. Due to this it took me awhile to get through this novels, and even longer due to finals and other events. Despite its setbacks, Branded also brought in a lot of aspects that I did really enjoy. For instance, I really enjoyed the twists that this story had. As an avid book predictor, I found this novel to really surprise me along the way! I'm also still in love with the concept of magical tattoos. Overall the concept was still fun and I did like Flycker as a character and those were what was really keeping me reading. However, the romance was also bittersweet. His romance was Dreya was obvious from Inked and was still as sweet as ever, but this novel really took a turn and (no spoilers), but I definitely did not agree with how the romance took a turn in this novel. Cover: ★★★★★ Nyxia by Scott Reintgen
*I received an ARC of Nyxia from the Random House Children through Netgalley, but this in no way affected my honest opinion about the book.*
Synopsis: "Emmett Atwater isn't just leaving Detroit; he's leaving Earth. Why the Babel Corporation recruited him is a mystery, but the number of zeroes on their contract has him boarding their lightship and hoping to return to Earth with enough money to take care of his family. Forever. Before long, Emmett discovers that he is one of ten recruits, all of whom have troubled pasts and are a long way from home. Now each recruit must earn the right to travel down to the planet of Eden--a planet that Babel has kept hidden--where they will mine a substance called Nyxia that has quietly become the most valuable material in the universe. But Babel's ship is full of secrets. And Emmett will face the ultimate choice: win the fortune at any cost, or find a way to fight that won't forever compromise what it means to be human." Review: I just want the next one. If that doesn't give it away, I REALLY enjoyed Nyxia! I found it to be a unique mix of Hunger Games and Ender's Game vibes. I'm not the biggest sci-fi reader, but this definitely had me turning page after page, digitally of course. Almost immediately I noticed the diversity present in this novel and I couldn't have been happier! It's always amazing to find more diversity in YA books and Nyxia definitely has plenty of diversity. I'm also glad that this diversity although apparent, wasn't incredibly in your face with culture, making it feel much more authentic. The natural input of diversity it something I was definitely looking for and Nyxia delivered it! Sci-fi's are always full of action! Nyxia had a moving plot full of adventure, action, and some major plot twists! It's plot was definitely one of my favorite aspects of this movie and I think, if done right, this could be turned into one heck of a movie! There is a hint of romance for all you romance lovers (is that repetitive?) out there! Scott Reintgen not only filled this novel with action, but he also created some amazing characters.
Nyxia was an incredible read and I would definitely recommend this to everyone, but even more to all you sci-fi readers out there! I'm also super excited to see what continues on in this series because this cliff hanger IS KILLING ME. Anyways, Nyxia is an amazing diverse read that is full of action and suspense and please go and pick it up! Cover: ★★★★☆ Favorite Quote(s): "She reads until I fall asleep, until I'm no longer afraid." "The words of the book echo." "As the rooms shrink, I shrink with them. I wake up right before I'm reduced to nothing." "I'm right here, and I'm not going anywhere." Mask of Shadows by Linsey Miller
*I received an ARC of Mask of Shadows by Linsey Miller through Netgalley, but this in no way affected my honest opinion about the book.*
Synopsis: "Perfect for fantasy fans of Sarah J. Maas and Leigh Bardugo, the first book in this new duology features a compelling gender fluid main character, impressive worldbuilding, and fast-paced action. Sallot Leon is a thief, and a good one at that. But gender fluid Sal wants nothing more than to escape the drudgery of life as a highway robber and get closer to the upper-class―and the nobles who destroyed their home. When Sal steals a flyer for an audition to become a member of The Left Hand―the Queen's personal assassins, named after the rings she wears―Sal jumps at the chance to infiltrate the court and get revenge. But the audition is a fight to the death filled with clever circus acrobats, lethal apothecaries, and vicious ex-soldiers. A childhood as a common criminal hardly prepared Sal for the trials. And as Sal succeeds in the competition, and wins the heart of Elise, an intriguing scribe at court, they start to dream of a new life and a different future, but one that Sal can have only if they survive. " Review: Mask of Shadows was an interesting read, but as usual there were some pros and cons. Unfortunately I also don't feel this book really deserved to be named for lovers of Sarah J Maas or Leigh Bardugo and the only thing those three had in common was a book under the genre of fantasy. If anything, I found this book almost like a less thrilling version of Nevernight by Jay Kristoff. However, the novel was still one that I'm glad a read, here were my thoughts:
I'm actually really excited for the rest of series! I can't wait to see more of this world and I'm really hoping to see more character development, as that often appears more in following novels. While I keep a look out for the following the book, anyone who has not yet read Mask of the Shadows should do so and be prepared for the rest of the series! Cover: ★★★★★ Favorite Quote(s): "You cannot rush things -impatience courts failure." "Under the moon alone, I broke as ice breaks." The Foxe & The Hound by R.S. Grey //Book Tour Post!
*I received an ARC of The Foxe & The Hound from R.S. Grey, but this in no way affected my honest opinion about the book.*
Synopsis: "A full-length STANDALONE romantic comedy from USA TODAY bestselling author R.S. Grey. When your life is a hot mess at twenty, it’s cute. At twenty-seven…well, not so much. It’s just that my lofty dreams—making it as a real estate agent, paying rent on time, showering daily—have stayed just that: dreams. Oh, and love? I’ve decided love might be a little ambitious for me at the moment. Instead, I’ve settled for the two guys who will never leave me: Ben & Jerry. That is, until Dr. Adam Foxe takes up residence as the town’s new vet. With his strong jaw, easy confidence, and form-fitting scrubs, it’s not long before every housewife in Hamilton is dragging neglected tomcats in for weekly checkups. Like everyone else, I’m intrigued. Even after I spoil my chance at a good first impression, he still offers me a proposition I can’t refuse: play his girlfriend at a family function and he’ll hire me as his real estate agent. Welcome to love in the 21st century." Review: I'm so glad I was able to snag an ARC of this amazing novel! It is such a fun, quick read that really had me wishing that this was more than just a standalone! Let's start with the beginning. In the first few pages I WAS HOOKED. (let me explain) DOGS. I am an avid lover of animals especially dogs (and cats!). This was an absolutely amazing start for me and all the dog parts of this novel were so cute and full of me gushing about dogs (not to mention golden retrievers were mentioned and THEY ARE MY FAVORITE). The only "bad" thing I need to mention is that I found some parts predictable. However, unique romance novels are hard (as everything has been written already). In addition, the setting and plot was actually quite unique, and I predicted more of the minor aspects, (like Mr. Boggs). All in all, I still found the book to be a page turner! Another thing I liked about this novel was Madeline. She was a fun person to read in the perspective of, and overall an interesting character. In addition, there were many plot aspects that I loved! However, I don't want to spoil any of the fun! So, if you're a fan of romance you should definitely go and check out this novel! Cover:★★★★★ Favorite Quote(s): "Because he's the love of my life. And he's my dog." About THE FOXE & THE HOUNDWhen your life is a hot mess at twenty, it’s cute. At twenty-seven…well, not so much. It’s just that my lofty dreams—making it as a real estate agent, paying rent on time, showering daily—have stayed just that: dreams. Oh, and love? I’ve decided love might be a little ambitious for me at the moment. Instead, I’ve settled for the two guys who will never leave me: Ben & Jerry. That is, until Dr. Adam Foxe takes up residence as the town’s new vet. With his strong jaw, easy confidence, and form-fitting scrubs, it’s not long before every housewife in Hamilton is dragging neglected tomcats in for weekly checkups. Like everyone else, I’m intrigued. Even after I spoil my chance at a good first impression, he still offers me a proposition I can’t refuse: play his girlfriend at a family function and he’ll hire me as his real estate agent. Welcome to love in the 21st century. It’s too bad I underestimated Adam’s irresistible charm and the undeniable attraction that burns between us. The day he pins me to the wall and silences me with a kiss, the line between reality and ruse begins to blur. Every teasing touch brings me to my knees. Every kiss promises more. It looks like my hot mess of a life is about to get a little hotter. Add THE FOXE & THE HOUND to your Goodreads listhere! Get your hands on THE FOXE & THE HOUND by R.S. Grey now!About R.S. GreyR.S. Grey is the USA Today bestselling author of thirteen novels, including THE FOXE & THE HOUND. She lives in Texas with her husband and two dogs, and can be found reading, binge-watching reality TV, or practicing yoga! Visit her at rsgrey.com Website | Twitter | Facebook | R.S. Grey's Little Reds Facebook Group | Newsletter | Instagram The Whole Thing Together by Ann Brashares
*I received an ARC of The Whole Thing Together from Delacorte Press through Netgalley, but this in no way affected my honest opinion about the book.*
Synopsis: "Summer for Sasha and Ray means the sprawling old house on Long Island. Since they were children, they’ve shared almost everything—reading the same books, running down the same sandy footpaths to the beach, eating peaches from the same market, laughing around the same sun-soaked dining table. Even sleeping in the same bed, on the very same worn cotton sheets. But they’ve never met. Sasha’s dad was once married to Ray’s mom, and together they had three daughters: Emma, the perfectionist; Mattie, the beauty; and Quinn, the favorite. But the marriage crumbled and the bitterness lingered. Now there are two new families—and neither one will give up the beach house that holds the memories, happy and sad, of summers past. The choices we make come back to haunt us; the effect on our destinies ripples out of our control…or does it? This summer, the lives of Sasha, Ray, and their siblings intersect in ways none of them ever dreamed, in a novel about family relationships, keeping secrets, and most of all, love. " Review: There were things I enjoyed about this book, but there were also a few flaws that caught my attention. However I have to say I was hoping for something that I would love as much at The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, and unfortunately I don't think this novel was as strong. Pros:
I was intrigued by the families and how they got around each other. Ray acted like an average guy, but at times it was just inappropriate? Ray and Sasha may not be related and at time they were definitely cute, but other times it felt somewhat incestuous?? I actually supported them for the majority of the time, until the end of the book where there relationship, family-wise, was much too close for them to like each other anymore. This novel was definitely an intriguing read that I'm glad I picked up to experience its interesting setting. Although it was not the ultimate novel and it can be slightly unfair to compare this back to the classic The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, it did fall a bit short of my expectations, though I would still recommend others to give this book a try! Cover: ★★★★☆ Favorite Quote(s): " It was a familiar weakness, not wanting the people she loved to want things too badly." |
Stephanie C.A fan of anything fiction, furry, & fun. Archives
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