Poison by Bridget Zinn

Publication Date: 12/03/13
Publisher: Disney Hyperion
Pages: 288
Genre: Fantasy/Fiction/Romance
Target Audience: Teens/Young Adults

Synopsis: Sixteen-year-old Kyra, a highly-skilled potions master, is the only one who knows her kingdom is on the verge of destruction—which means she’s the only one who can save it. Faced with no other choice, Kyra decides to do what she does best: poison the kingdom’s future ruler, who also happens to be her former best friend.

But, for the first time ever, her poisoned dart . . . misses.

Now a fugitive instead of a hero, Kyra is caught in a game of hide-and-seek with the king’s army and her potioner ex-boyfriend, Hal. At least she’s not alone. She’s armed with her vital potions, a too-cute pig, and Fred, the charming adventurer she can’t stop thinking about. Kyra is determined to get herself a second chance (at murder), but will she be able to find and defeat the princess before Hal and the army find her?

My Review: I really loved this enchanting story and I was sad to learn the author has died since she wrote this. It's truly tragic that she will never see her book published and see it loved by so many people, and I'm very sure it will be.  It's impossible not to love this amazing and magical story.

The main thing in the synopsis that caught my attention? The Pig!Any story that has an enchanted, magical and 'too-cute' pig has to be made of win. And Kyra's developing and budding bond with Rosie the piggy made me squeak inside, and as a result I now want a pet pig. A cute cuddly pet pig.

Moving back to the main story; it flowed perfectly. There were twists and turns and I was fully surprised by every single one of them, which is fantastic!

There was quite a bit of flashbacking and where in some books this can get confusing, in Poison the blending of flashbacks to present day was seamless and made complete sense. They weren't suddenly introduced in the middle of nowhere and they helped explain a great deal of the story. Some of them even gave clever hints as to what was to come, but what was amazing about this book was that even though the clues were there, the puzzle pieces didn't click into place until they were supposed to. 
As one of those people who usually tries to guess the ending well ahead of time, i found it an impossible task whilst reading this. I've been outsmarted. dang it.

Character wise, Kyra made a great headstrong, gutsy and inspiring female protagonist, and I was in love with Fred five pages after meeting him (I wish I was kidding, but some male characters just make me long to have the ability to make them real).  Neither of them were what they seemed. Though initially Kyra appeared a ruthless killer and Fred appeared to be your average traveler  I was left amazed by how they both turned out and what they did through the course of the novel, right up until the very satisfying ending.
As for the Princess Ariana, she brought some wonderfully funny moments to the last third or so of the book and if I were to pick that best friend I'd do everything with, then that would be her. Loyalty and friendship the likes of that are portrayed between Kyra and Ariana are far, few and difficult to find.

I would love to hear more of Kyra's story, where things will go for her, for Fred and for Ariana. Sadly that will never be and I feel privileged to have read this book and for the escapism it gave me to such a magical and beautiful fantasy world. This wonderful author was gone far too soon and my best wishes go to her friends and family.  Rest in Peace Bridget and I'm sure you'd like to know your book is made of awesome.

'Til The World Ends by Julie Kagawa et al

Publication Date: 29/01/13
Publisher: Harlequin Luna
Pages: 368
Genre: Fantasy/Sci-fi
Target Audience: Young Adults

Synopsis:
Dawn of Eden by Julie Kagawa:

Before The Immortal Rules, there was the Red Lung, a relentless virus determined to take out all in its path. For Kylie, the miracle of her survival is also her burden—as a doctor at one of the clinics for the infected, she is forced to witness endless suffering. What’s worse, strange things are happening to the remains of the dead, and by the time she befriends Ben Archer, she’s beginning to wonder if a global pandemic is the least of her problems...

Thistle & Thorne by Ann Aguirre:

After a catastrophic spill turns the country into a vast chemical wasteland, those who could afford it retreated to fortresses, self-contained communities run by powerful corporations. But for Mari Thistle, life on the outside—in the Red Zone—is a constant struggle. To protect her family, Mari teams up with the mysterious Thorne Goodman. Together, they’ll face an evil plot in both the underworld of the Red Zone and the society inside the fortresses that could destroy those on the outside... for good.

Sun Storm by Karen Duvall:

Sarah Daggot has been chasing storms since she was a child. But after the biggest solar flares in history nearly destroy the planet, she becomes a Kinetic, endowed by her exposure to extreme radiation with the power to sense coming storms—in the cosmos and beyond. And she’s not the only one. Sarah believes the Kinetics are destined to join forces and halt the final onslaught of the sun. She’ll vow to keep trying to convince the one missing link in their chain of defense, the enigmatic Ian Matthews, up until the world ends.

My Review: I usually avoid collections because there's always at least one story in them that makes me want to tear my hair out or slam my face against a wall. Sadly, this collection was no different. But I'll start with the positives.

Dawn of Eden:

I was thrilled with Dawn of Eden and I found it a unique insight into the world of The Immortal Rules before Ali's adventure begun.  Kylie made a sympathetic  caring, yet tough protagonist and I was pulled into her story and her reasons for fighting the Red Lung Virus without much trouble.  
The story even took a romantic turn and featured a cameo from a pretty important character from The Immortal Rules. 
The ending was pretty well done, which is usually difficult with a Novella and overall, with this story, I was very impressed. Not only did it give additional background on the vamps and Red Lung Virus, but also an insight into how difficult life was during the breakout. 

Thistle and Thorne
I was really surprised with this novella. I have books by Ann Aguirre on my to-read list but have yet to read any of them; needless to say this will have to change very soon because she is an exceptional writer.
Mari and Thorne made a brilliant twosome and I really hope Miss Aguirre writes a full book based on these characters because I really want to know what happens after this novella ends, especially as it ends with the suggestion that there is more to come.
There is a little tinge of romance in this, but very little and the plot and action certainly takes centre stage.  The post-apocalyptic background is well thought out, and so different from most others I've read since I've never read anything about a chemical spill before.
Overall, this is a cleverly written novella but with quite a bit of violence and gore though not without the emotional undercurrent with the characters which make them feel more human.

Sun Storm
This is unfortunately the short story that let me down and by this point I was actually pretty hopeful that all three stories would be made of win. Don't get me wrong, the idea of solar flares and the end of the world is realistic enough, but what failed to capture me was the idea of developing powers when hit by the sparks from these flares. Having said that, It's no more unbelievable than zombies I guess so I gave it a chance.
When I got to a certain part half way through though, I thought the following: 'that could never happen in a million years' even my huge imagination has a limit and it reached it. Having said that, some people may take to it though to me it seemed a bit silly.
Character wise, though I loved Sarah, Ian just didn't gel with me and I didn't really feel his relationship with Sarah. Add what felt like a much too rushed ending and when I finally finished I was ready to admit that I didn't personally enjoy it.

All in all for the first two stories this is worth reading, but honestly, I did not get on with the third. Having said that, I'm sure some people will disagree with me. Give it a go when it's released!

The Stone Demon by Karen Mahoney

Publication Date: 8/03/13

Publisher: Flux

Pages: 336

Genre: Fantasy/Fiction/Faerie

Target Audience: Teens/Young Adults

Synopsis: After being tricked into opening the doorway to the Demon Realm by Aliette, the Wood Queen, Donna Underwood is faced with a terrible ultimatum from the newly released demon hordes. They demand that the alchemists deliver the Philosopher's Stone, or their reaper storm will plunge the world into a devastating modern-day Dark Age.

Donna is sent to London, England, where she must complete her alchemist's training and learn how to recreate the Stone. But time is running out. Between facing the vengeful demon king, Demian, and collecting the Stone's elements, Donna realizes she must give her own life in order to succeed. And this time, even braving death may not be enough to save the world.

My Review: I was so thrilled when Netgalley approved me to read this especially since I've been hooked on this series since the very beginning and it's with regret that I'm now waving goodbye to Donna, Xan and Navin. This series has been a fun but bumpy journey and though there have been many occasions I've wanted to yell at certain characters, I have to admit, the story came together nicely. 

This installment in particular is steeped in myth, legend and the kind of quest story line that I like. The attempt to make the philosophers stone is nothing short of trouble strewn and filled with danger and some truly horrible moments that made my heart break. One part in particular featuring Navin and Donna had me in tears, even though really if I'd thought about it, I should have sensed it was coming.

Miss Mahoney has achieved what few manage, creating a story that comes together perfectly, characters that not only screw up but are also aware they they messed up and desperately try to fix things. From the last book everyone will know what Donna did, but I have yet to find one review slating her as stupid. Why? because she's human and humans make mistakes, that's just the way it is. 
This is especially prominent in this book since, when compared to the vain and egotistical Demian, it becomes important to really understand what it means to have a sense of messing up and then putting it right.

It was great to have an insight to other characters to such as Aliette and the Faerie Queen, and finding out about Xan's past was pretty awesome too. It was also awesome to see more of Newton the demon stone head. I love that annoying dude for some strange reason that I can't fathom, there's something about bad characters with a streak of good that just tugs on my heartstrings.

Getting to the point though, there are some things that I can't tell you in this review. Do they make the philosophers stone? Find out for yourself. Does Donna marry Xan and have twenty kids? Sorry, not telling. Does Demian get locked back where he came from? Again, I'm not telling. Needless to say I found the ending brilliant and it ties all the loose ends nicely, so I don't think you'll be disappointed. But sorry, you'll have to wait until April. Trust me though, it's worth the wait

Pantomime by Laura Lam

Publication Date: 5/2/13
Publisher: Strange Chemistry (Angry Robot)
Pages: 392
Genre: Fantasy/Fiction
Target Audience: Teens/Young Adults/Adults

Synopsis: R. H. Ragona’s Circus of Magic is the greatest circus of Ellada. Nestled among the glowing blue Penglass—remnants of a mysterious civilisation long gone—are wonders beyond the wildest imagination. It’s a place where anything seems possible, where if you close your eyes you can believe that the magic and knowledge of the vanished Chimaera is still there. It’s a place where anyone can hide.

Iphigenia Laurus, or Gene, the daughter of a noble family, is uncomfortable in corsets and crinoline, and prefers climbing trees to debutante balls. Micah Grey, a runaway living on the streets, joins the circus as an aerialist’s apprentice and soon becomes the circus’s rising star.

But Gene and Micah have balancing acts of their own to perform, and a secret in their blood that could unlock the mysteries of Ellada.

My Review: The main problem with writing this review will be doing so without spoiling the main secret within Pantomime, but I have to do so because I won't spoil this book for anyone. 

This is so much more than a fantasy and it deals with issues that a lot of people won't even consider in there lives, let alone seriously think on or debate. 

Having said that this book also struck a personal cord with me because I know someone who is pretty alike to Gene in more ways than one and this perhaps led me to think more deeply of the issues in this book than I more normally would have.

Gene and Micah's journey is both harrowing, emotional and truly incredible. The magic of the circus comes to life in all it's beautiful brilliance, making the dark side seem even more shadowy in comparison.

Micah and Gene's story was beautiful told and I have been left longing for another book so I'm hoping to God that there's a sequel. There were so many twists, turns and unexpected events that I was left breathless and I wanted so much to be in that Circus swinging from the trapeze
I've been left with so many questions. But most forward in my mind is this: What is inside those Penglass domes? I really want to know. It's killing me not knowing. Maybe that's the curious child in me :)  

And what will become of Micah and Gene?! Ah why must I be tortured so? Maybe I'm being a bit dramatic. But go read this when it's out. Totally amazing. I am in awe of the author and her writing talent. She hasn't just written a book, she has a created a magical world, fascinating characters and broached subjects in this book that few have dared and she totally nailed it. Brilliant.

Clockwork Dolls by William Meikle

Publication Date: 29/01/2013

Publisher: DarkFuse

Pages: 152

Genre: Horror/Mystery/Thriller

Target Audience: Adults

Synopsis: Does all human passion, all memory, all imagination come merely from the chemistry in our brains, like the movements of a clock follow from the arrangement of its cogs and wheels?

Are we just clockwork dolls? 

Or is there an organizing principle at work, something we can ask for answers to the important questions of existence... something that might answer? 

Dave Burns has asked. 

Now he, and his friends, might not live long enough to understand the reply.

My Review: Netgalley doesn't class this as horror. I disagree. It scared the crap out of me in more ways than one. I'm going to keep this review spoiler free so as not to ruin the affect for future readers because this is one short story you don't want to miss.

Is it really possible to ask the Cosmos for something and actually have it granted? well it does in this novel and with devastating consequences.  This is so well written I was creeped out by every twist and turn and every time something unexpected happened I felt like the bottom of my stomach dropped about a foot.

I never thought that such a short novel could have such a huge impact, not only on my emotions but also on my ideas of God, the Universe and Fate.  This is a thought provoker if ever there was one. Though be warned the main character is a bit erm annoying at first but I did warm to him.

Anyway read this when it's released. It's totally mind blowing.

Snow Whyte and the Queen of Mayhem by Melissa Lemon

Publication Date: 11/12/12
Publisher: Cedar Fort inc
Pages: 288
Target Audience: Teens/Young Adults
Genre: Fantasy/Retold Fairy-tale/Romance

Synopsis: Stuck in her family's apple orchards, Kat's got plenty of work to do and only pesky Jeremy to help. But when Jeremy convinces her to run away, Kat will discover that nothing---and no one---in her life is quite what it seems. Wonderfully re-imagined  this is the magical tale of Snow White as you've never read it before!

My Review: I loved this story to pieces :) I could leave my review there, but I won't. I'm a sucker for happy endings and an even bigger sucker for fairy-tales so you can imagine I was enthralled by this enchanting retelling of Snow White.

Some parts of the story remained the same for example, the mirror, the evil Queen and Snow White herself. But everything was twisted in such a great way. Kat is not the vulnerable Disney character who lies waiting to be kissed, the dwarves are not little men who go out and dig in a mine and the story itself is much harsher in parts with the stark realism the original tale lacked.
Danger follows the characters everywhere and the reader is given a constant reminder of exactly how dangerous a woman with an all-seeing mirror can be with all her hunting down of the 'rule breakers' in her kingdom without having to witness the rule breaking in person.

The romance side of it was brilliantly done and I loved the twist regarding Kat and Jeremy and the link between Kat and the man trapped in the Queen's mirror was amazing. I never saw it coming, nor did I guess the mystery surrounding Jeremy.
Some of my favourite scenes though were between Kat and the Dwarves and my personal favourite was Pokole (such a sweet little dude) and there were some scenes with those guys that nearly had me in tears.

All in all this story has a lovely ending with some cleverly thought out plot twists, a healthy dose of humour and some heartwarming romance that I think will be just perfect for these cold winter months. Grab a hot chocolate, some nice biscuits and curl up with this book :) 

A Royal Marriage by Rachelle McCalla

Release Date: 27/11/12
Publisher: Harlequin (Love Inspired)
Pages: 288
Target Audience: Young Adults/Adults
Genre: Historical Romance/Religion

Synopsis: Despite her protests, Princess Gisela, headstrong daughter of the Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne, must enter into a diplomatic marriage. Yet en route to her wedding, her ship is attacked and she's gravely injured. Rescued by a renowned healer, King John of Lydia, Gisela recuperates at his Mediterranean castle. The handsome, widowed ruler soon has her reevaluating her beliefs on love and marriage …but only if King John could be her groom. Their love is forbidden, and duty requires him to deliver her to her betrothed. Unless they can find a way to join their hearts—and kingdoms—with love, faith and honor.

Review: When I first started reading this I was enjoying it immensely and then the Religion heavy content kicked in and it started overshadowing the Historical Romance side of the story. Now don't get me wrong, I have nothing against religion in novels or in general. In fact i read the Amish Romance stories but they are a lot less Religion heavy than this book (odd considering they are set in a religious community).  I also think it prudent to point out that I am NOT an Atheist just to make it clear that this is not an anti-god splurge.

At the beginning of the story it is the peril and romance that takes center stage, followed swiftly by the threat of war and some fighting. But then the religious side creeps in, sneaky and not so there at first, but then it hits you like a hammer and I found it hard to focus on Gisela, John and there budding romance. One part that particularly annoyed me was that John seemed more alarmed at the thought of the church splitting than losing the woman he loves and the lives that would be lost during a war that would cause said split of church.  Now I understand that this was a different time period but still, it bugged me a lot. 

If you can get past that and focus on the romance and the complicated military plots and betrayals then there is a good story underneath it all. And I was thrilled with the ending. The idea that Love will conquer all has always been a big thing for me and I love the idea. So for that reason this book still gets three out of five, because it is, underneath it all, a compelling love story. It helped that the characters were well fleshed out and with personalities that could be related to. I could understand the reasoning for John and Gisela trying to avoid there feelings even if i didn't like there stubbornness.

Maybe I'm a good old fashioned romantic but if you love someone, really love someone, then they are most definitely worth the struggle to be with.

The Facebook Diet by Gemini Adams

Release Date: 30/01/12
Publisher: Live Consciously Publishing
Pages: 146
Target Audience: Adults
Genre: Humour

Synopsis: There are now 1 billion people on Facebook. That's 1 in every 7 people on the planet. And 34% of all users check their account before brushing their teeth or hair in the mornings! 

Everyone can confess to an addictive Facebook habit, whether it's stalking an ex, faking bathroom breaks to read news, checking-in wherever they go, or art-directing photo's for the perfect profile pic.

The Facebook Diet (the first in The Unplug Series) takes a tongue-in-cheek look at this love for social media, featuring 50 hilarious cartoons that pinpoint the more idiotic, embarrassing and cringe-worthy behaviors of this modern approach to communication.

It’s the ideal gift for Facebook junkies everywhere. Helping them find light-relief and the ability to laugh at this tech-takeover, which may inspire them to occasionally unplug with a tech-detox.

My Review: This is a funny and very short snappy read that you can fit quite easily  around your Facebook addiction and hopefully find a way to fit other things that aren't Facebook related into your life. How many of these cartoons did I relate too? Admittedly not many. This is because I go on Facebook to play a few games and chat to a few people rather than stalk ex's, however I do know a few people who popped into my head when reading this and I couldn't help but laugh.

The Cartoons were funny and slightly naughty in some cases and yet rung oddly true. How many people do you know who sneak off to the toilet just to check there Facebook feeds? I have to admit though, if you  have a partner/wife/husband who is threatening to cut the power cord to your computer due to your Facebook addiction then you probably do need a trip to Facebookaholics Anonymous. 

On a more serious note, and yes this book does have one, there are some helpful suggestions for things you could do instead of Facebook, some of which were honestly good advice. So if you know someone who spends more time writing on an imaginary wall than writing letters or who has started sticking post-it notes saying 'like' on people the maybe give them this book. They might find it useful. 

Failing that there's always the option of attacking that power cord with those scissors...

Uses for Boys - Erica Lorraine Scheidt

Release Date: 15/01/13
Publisher: St Martin's Griffin
Pages: 240
Target Audience: Young Adults/Adults
Genre: Fiction/Romance

Synopsis: Anna remembers a time before boys, when she was little and everything made sense. When she and her mom were a family, just the two of them against the world. But now her mom is gone most of the time, chasing the next marriage, bringing home the next stepfather. Anna is left on her own—until she discovers that she can make boys her family. From Desmond to Joey, Todd to Sam, Anna learns that if you give boys what they want, you can get what you need. But the price is high—the other kids make fun of her; the girls call her a slut. Anna's new friend, Toy, seems to have found a way around the loneliness, but Toy has her own secrets that even Anna can't know.

Then comes Sam. When Anna actually meets a boy who is more than just useful, whose family eats dinner together, laughs, and tells stories, the truth about love becomes clear. And she finally learns how it feels to have something to lose—and something to offer. Real, shocking, uplifting, and stunningly lyrical, Uses for Boys is a story of breaking down and growing up.

My Review: There's no real way to describe this novel without using the following word: Harrowing. Because that's exactly what this book is. There's not one particular point or event that makes this novel shocking but rather the book as a whole.  And if you're sensitive to underage sex, rape, neglectful parents and abortion then maybe you should give this book a miss.  However, if you have a strong stomach and you're not easily scared off then this is an eye opening, lyrical, shocking and yet oddly uplifting and hopeful read.

I wouldn't trade places with Anna even if all the money in the world were offered to me. Part of me was infuriated that she could keep making bad decisions and treating herself so poorly, but it's hard not to sympathise for her and the situation she finds herself in. I wouldn't wish her predicament on any young woman.  It saddens me to know that this  definitely happens in real life and that there are 13 to 16 year old girls out there having sex, being used and neglected, but sadly it is true that it happens. Sadly, girls like Anna are not just works of fiction.

It did made me wonder how many of those so called 'sluts' at school are actually very lonely girls who, like Anna, have gotten confused and forgotten and used boys and sex as a means of escape from life. 

It isn't all doom and gloom though and there's some important lessons to be learned from reading this; you can change your life. You can find happiness and love and you don't need to be with another person to be happy either, sometimes the person who can make you happiest is yourself.

I wanted to scream at some of the boys Anna meets because some of them were absolute jerks and knowingly took advantage, others were just as lost as her and I felt sympathy for them too. I disliked Anna's mother with a passion, and I think she wrote the guidebook on 'How to be a Bad Parent' and I hated the fact she left Anna alone so much.

Overall this was a well written and emotive story, written in a way that was almost poetic. The only fault I could find  was that I would have loved to have known more of what happens to Sam and Anna after the the story ended. The ending was very abrupt and a little confusing, but other than that an enlightening  shocking and eye-opening read. Many thanks to Netgalley for allowing me to read this before the release date.

A Hope Springs Christmas by Patricia Davids

Release Date: 13/11/12
Publisher: Harlequin (Love Inspired)
Pages: 224
Target Audience: Young Adults/Adults
Genre: Amish Romance/Romance

Synopsis: Amish widow Sarah Wyse does not see wedding bells in her future. Still, she can’t think of a better way to spend the Christmas season than helping her handsome, shy neighbor Levi Beachy find a wife. But once
the single ladies of Hope Springs start visiting his buggy shop, Levi sends the town’s eligible men Sarah’s way. Neither expects to find love—but with help from the close-knit community, they just might mend each other’s broken heart.

My Review: This is only the second Amish/Christian romance I have read and I have to admit I will definitely read more of them. In a world where love is complicated and filled with a lot of betrayal and pain it's refreshing to read a heart warming romance that is purely based on the feelings involved.  

Having said that, that wasn't the only reason I like reading these sorts of romances. I find there's something comforting about reading about a lifestyle that is much more people focused. In a world of technology it is too easy to forget the people in our lives and forget to talk to them (face to face, not via facebook!) and it was nice to read about such a lovely community where people help each other out during bad times and are always there to lend a hand as opposed to just looking out for themselves.

The romance was beautifully written, it unfolded at such a natural and gentle pace and nothing between Sarah or Levi felt forced; the chemistry was perfect between the two of them. The hesitation for Sarah, after losing her first husband was believable and Levi's commitment to Sarah throughout everything was heartwarming. 

With a beautiful supporting cast of friends, families and a warm and cheerful sounding town, Hope Springs has made my list of 'fictional places i'd love to visit'. Whether you're reading about the tension between Sarah and Levi, the crazy matchmaking going on between characters or about the Twin's ridiculous pranks this book will keep you engaged. 

One final thing I will say about romance novels, is yes, you do know the ending. And yes, if we thought about it we all know who will end up with who by the end of the novel, yet this doesn't take away any of the enjoyment. The reason being is that it isn't the ending that surprises you, but the journey the characters take to get there, and Levis' and Sarahs' journey is not one to be missed. 

The Lost Prince (The Iron Fey: Call of the Forgotten #1) by Julie Kagawa

Release Date: 02/11/12

Publisher: Harlequin

Pages: 416

Target Audience: Teens/Young Adults

Genre: Faerie/Fantasy/Fiction

Synopsis: Don't look at Them. Never let Them know you can see Them.That is Ethan Chase's unbreakable rule. Until the fey he avoids at all costs—including his reputation—begin to disappear, and Ethan is attacked. Now he must change the rules to protect his family. To save a girl he never thought he'd dare to fall for.

Ethan thought he had protected himself from his older sister's world—the land of Faery. His previous time in the Iron Realm left him with nothing but fear and disgust for the world Meghan Chase has made her home, a land of myth and talking cats, of magic and seductive enemies. But when destiny comes for Ethan, there is no escape from a danger long, long forgotten.

Review: Loved, loved, loved this! I fan girl screamed when I got approved to review this on Netgalley.  It was great seeing everything from Ethan's perspective and just as great seeing what had become of Meghan and Ash in the years that they've been in the Iron Realm.

The Lost Prince doesn't just revisit the ordinary Fey and the Iron Fey but also draws on the Forgotten Fey that were mentioned in The Iron Knight, something I was very intrigued about at the time. The plot unravels pretty fast and I was reading furiously fast towards the end of the book just to find out what happens.

Ethan proved to be a charming, infuriating, fascinating (and hot) protagonist and when teamed with the 'take no crap' Kenzie, they made a great team and though I did suspect that there was something Kenzie was hiding from the beginning, I was still surprised when I found out what it was. 

I was also left feeling deeply sorry for Ethan with everything he had gone through because of his ability to see the Fey and try as he might to avoid them he ends up smack in the middle of trouble all over again. I also however, admire how resilient he is without ever truly losing touch with his emotions...oddly enough he reminded me of a certain Winter Prince from the Iron Fey series. :)

This review wouldn't be complete if I didn't mention Keirran...if you don't remember the echoes of that name from The Iron Knight from when Ash was being tested then it will certainly mean something to you by the end of the book. As for what he does and what happens to him, I guess that will have to wait until the next book.

Speaking of the end of the book, I was pretty much screaming in frustration that I have to wait ages for the next book.  But hey, I'm sure It'll be worth the wait and I can't wait to find out what happens to everyone. I can't write with much more detail because I don't want to spoil anything. But Iron Fey fans: Go forth and read this when it's released! Also, Grimalkin is in it and Puck!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sound (Solid #3) by Shelley Workinger

Release Date: 01/11/12

Publisher: Createspace

Pages: 218

Target Audience: Teens/Young Adults

Genre: Fiction/Sci-fi/Romance/Suspense

Synopsis: Clio Kaid's had one crazy summer.

After learning she was one of a hundred teens who were genetically modified before birth, she and the others departed for "camp" at a classified military site.

Besides discovering her own special ability, uncovering a conspiracy, and capturing a killer, she's also forged new friendships, found love, and managed to lose them both.

With no answers and the end of summer closing in, Clio's terrified of going home more lost than when she arrived.

Will she finally find everything she's been looking for?

My Review:

Wow! I think this wraps up the Solid trilogy perfectly. Though I have to admit that those looking for a cut and dry answer to every question will find themselves at a loss, though for me I found that this series wasn't about knowing everything and this makes it much more realistic as in life we never really get all the answers to everything we face.

What I found particularly fascinating is the difference between the lessons that are learned in this book compared to some others. Often you get the main characters forced to do the right thing even if it hurts people, in this Clio is encouraged to do the opposite in more than one situation. Even when she knows that she should push issues, she slowly learns to back down so as to let things unravel at there own pace. I love a book with a different take on life; there are far too many cliche stories out there.

The fact is people aren't polished and perfect and it's great to see a bunch of characters who mess up as much as your average person.

I loved the chemistry between Clio and Jack and it was great seeing how there relationship developed. It got me thinking...what would it be like to have a clean slate with someone you thought you'd messed up with? I think We'd all love that. For those who have missed Bliss, Miranda and Co they are all back and it was like meeting up with old friends again after a long time apart. I love Bliss to bits and even Miranda got my attention with her softer side in this installment rather than her confronting attitude and I loved seeing her love struck.

The ending really grabbed my attention with it's suddenness and excitement and I read the last few chapters so fast they flew by...but that epilogue! Why? It's killing me and I really want to know what will come of those last few pages. I really really hope I find out at some point because I want to know! *stamps feet like a child*

All in all this has been a fun trilogy with some twists and turns that kept me guessing. The bad guys in this book and the previous ones were always so unsuspecting and I found myself taken by surprise in each book, and it was no different in this one. As much as i'm sure Clio and Co love the excitement I think it'll be nice for her to have some peace and quiet and not be attacked by random nut cases...though I have to admit it would be interesting to find out what happens to them all in the future and have some light shed on that epilogue :)
Brilliant :)

Goddess Interrupted by Aimee Carter

Release Date: 27/03/12
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Pages: 304
Target Audience: Teens/Young Adults
Genre: Fantasy/Fiction

Synopsis: Kate Winters has won immortality. 

But if she wants a life in the Underworld with Henry, she’ll have to fight for it. 

Becoming immortal wasn’t supposed to be the easy part. Though Kate is about to be crowned Queen of the Underworld, she’s as isolated as ever. And despite her growing love for Henry, ruler of the Underworld, he’s becoming ever more distant and secretive. Then, in the midst of Kate’s coronation, Henry is abducted by the only being powerful enough to kill him: the King of the Titans. 

As the other gods prepare for a war that could end them all, it is up to Kate to save Henry from the depths of Tartarus. But in order to navigate the endless caverns of the Underworld, Kate must enlist the help of the one person who is the greatest threat to her future. 

Henry’s first wife, Persephone

My Review: I have to thank Net Galley for allowing me to read this book ahead of release and I have to thank Aimee for writing another incredible book (I was very very very impressed!). Not only does the plot, romance, action and characters kick ass; it features one of my favourite character crushes. Henry is simply swoon-worthy!  

I'm going to keep this succinct and spoiler free since it isn't released for a while yet, and I don't want to spoil it for other fans of the Goddess Test books. Simply put, it rocks. Picking up six months after the end of the previous book, Kate is back in the underworld and a little worried since Henry appears to be a bit distant and then all hell breaks loose before she can figure out what's wrong.

The story moves quickly and it was great to be introduced to some new characters, though I wanted to kick a certain someone a few times (you'll see what I mean when you read it)

There were some truly scary parts to this and as someone who has read several books involving the Titans and Greek gods, I have to admit I have never seen a Titan described this way and I was more than impressed with Aimee's inventiveness and originality. It's hard to put an original twist on a age old idea, but she's managed it brilliantly.  

I can't say much more without spoiling things but I will say that when you read this be prepared for a roller-coaster of a novel, filled with fights, laughs, tears, romance and action right through until the end. And OMG, that cliffhanger! I'm sorry but I must say it again...OMG that cliffhanger!

The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa

Target Audience: Teens/Young Adults
Genre: Faerie/Fantasy/Romance/Fiction

I can't believe it's over and such a wonderful end to the series! I'd like to thank Julie Kagawa for writing yet another astounding novel and I'd like to thank NetGalley for allowing me to read and review the ARC, for which I am very very happy about.  If you haven't read the previous books stop now. If you have read the rest of the series and want to read this review, you can do so without worry; I'm not going to post spoilers!

The Iron Knight picks up after the end of The Iron Queen with Ash now desperately trying to find a way to be with Meghan, who had to banish him from the Iron Realm to save his life. Now joined by Puck, Ash starts a journey to get the one thing that will allow him to be with the woman he loves: a soul.

Wow and wow again this is a really incredible roller-coaster of a book and so worth the wait after the ending of The Iron Queen and I'm incredibly glad that this has become the end of the series instead as it offers a lot more closure for what I suspect will be most of the fans of the series.
I was surprised by some of the things that happened and I definitely had a few 'Wow' moments where the plot twists simply took me by complete surprise, but having said that I was thrilled with the turn of events because at times Ash's quest seemed completely hopeless and as a reader this made me really want him to succeed.
Some of the things that you discover about Ash are incredible too. You gain a fascinating insight into his past from when he was a cold winter prince as well as glimpses into his softer side which helped to gain a better idea of what Ash has had to deal with throughout his life and although at times you will truly hate him, you will also really feel for him.

Most of the old favourites are back too! Puck is still his usual mischievous self but we see a more serious side at times as he and Ash learn how to work with one another and I have a feeling that everyone will love those two together in this book without Meghan to intervene in their arguments all the time.
The Big Bad Wolf makes an appearance in this novel and he really is big and very very dangerous and yet oddly enough I warmed to him by the end (even if I did for a while think of the three little pigs and blowing down houses).
There's also a character appearance that will take you by complete surprise and will give all series fans a bit of a shock (I know it did with me), but without this particular character the ending that happened certainly wouldn't have. I'm sure there will be a few cry's of shock from readers when this book is officially released but ultimately I think that most of the Iron Fey fan base will be thrilled with how the series is wrapped up.

On a final note I will say that this is not just a story about Fae, romance, friendship and adventure but also a story about humanity. What does it mean to be human? Is it our frailty, our mortality, our emotions, our conscience or is it a mix all of those. If there's one thing that this book will make you wonder and try to figure out, it's that and so much more as you get lost in the pages of what is, in my opinion, easily the best book in the series.
Thank you once again to Julie for bringing is readers one of the most romantic, imaginative and captivating Faerie stories of our generation. I can't wait to read whatever she releases next.

Settling by Shelley Workinger (ARC received from author)

Target Audience: Teens/Young Adults
Genre: Sci-fi/Fantasy/Romance

After reading Solid I eagerly anticipated the release of Settling so when I was asked to review it by Shelley I jumped at the chance, especially after the dramatic ending to Solid.
Needless to say I was not disappointed and it more than lived up to it's predecessor, if anything it was even better :-)

Settling continues where Solid left off. The students at the camp are still left reeling from the betrayal they suffered in the first book but are bravely trying to get on with things while trying to discover what the effects are of the experiments that were done to them as well as taking on summer jobs around the army camp (some of which were pretty awesome).
The peace is soon shattered as strange events once again occurring and a new threat emerges that throws everything out of balance, and Clio and her friends are once again in danger, but the question is; from who?

I loved this book from beginning to end and, unlike a lot of sci-fi, this book manages to keep the kids in a sense of reality. If there's one thing that I find truly intriguing it's that midst all the amazing abilities and extraordinary events, these kids are still talking about their favourite bands, falling in love and celebrating July 4th like everyone else in America.  The contrast between the the surreal and the real is truly amazing!
In relation to this, the realism of the characters is exceptional and no character is perfect. In this novel cracks emerge and I got to see different sides to characters that I thought I knew pretty well with hilarious and sometimes sad consequences.

If I'm honest, Clio was definitely the one to stun me in this novel and I felt horrible for her at the end (I can't post anymore without spoiling anything, so just read it!). I will say that I am thoroughly annoyed at the harshness and judgmental attitudes of some of the other characters, and I found myself thinking about an old proverb about sins and casting stones.
The characters, in general though were very captivating. Bliss was her usual flighty self, Jack was very cute and loving, Miranda her usual, unusual self and Gareth was just funny. Also we have some new characters and greater focus on some older unvisited characters which, all in all, leads to a wonderfully diverse and interesting bunch!

I can't say what perhaps was the most interesting part because it will spoil the plot, but I will say that things get complicated for Clio, very complicated! There are some incredible revelations regarding the abilities and experiments that were done and I can't wait to find out more so at this moment I am dying to read Sound. I need to know what happens next!
Anyway, this is an exceptional work or sci-fi, romance, mystery and murder and it is not to be missed. If you haven't read Solid, please go and do so and then read this because your missing out!



Also, for those who aren't aware, I am also participating in Shelley's blog tour and I will be posting an interview with her on the 21st June, please check it out!

Solid is available from Amazon now: Solid Kindle Edition or in the USA Solid Kindle Edition (USA)
Settling will be available from July 4th 2011

Wintercraft: Blackwatch by Jenna Burtenshaw

Target Audience: Teens/Young Adults

Genre: Fantasy

First of all I would like to thank Jenna and headline publishing for sending me a proof copy to read, and as most of you know I will also be publishing my Interview with Jenna on the 12^th of April.

Anyway, Blackwatch is an amazing book and a fantastic edition to the Wintercraft series.  All the favourites are back including Kate, Silas, Edgar and of course our feathery friend, Silas’s crow (I want one, their awesome!).

Blackwatch picks up roughly where Wintercraft left off. After the events on the night of souls, Silas has left for the continent and Kate has decided to try and get help from the Skilled even though she knows there’s a chance that she might be blamed for a murder she hasn’t committed.   Things take a sinister turn though, and Kate finds herself in more trouble than ever, whilst Silas finds himself at the mercy of The Blackwatch and a woman named Delliah, also seems to be playing her part on a very twisted turn of events that could possibly change Albion for ever.

I love this series, I simply love it.  The characters are so different and Unique and instead of having clear cut ‘bad-guys’ as you would get in most novels there are characters who have different levels of evil and often good reasons for what they do (that doesn’t make them good by a longshot, but it does make a change to have 3-dimensional reasoning and emotions)

Silas is by far my favourite character, as he was in the previous novel.  Maybe it’s because I have a thing for the literary bad boys but it’s also the fact that despite his bad points, he is the most complex character in the book.  He’s dangerous, ruthless and can be very cold, but at the same time can be equally caring, concerned and capable of doing the right thing. He was the anti-hero of the previous novel, but I think now he’s edging more towards Hero, not that I mind, he is an awesome guy! 

Kate also shone in this novel and her bravery never ceased to amaze me. At times she was hunted, stalked and attacked on an almost constant basis and she still stood her ground and stood strong. But at the same time, she wasn’t foolish and she also knew when to admit defeat when she had to and I admired her for that.  

Edgar impressed me a lot too!  He was such a hero in his own way and added some humour when I felt it was most needed. Some of the things he came out with had me laughing ages after I’d past them in the book. As for his actions at the end I was stunned, he really was brave and I can see his relationship with Silas becoming interesting as well especially since the two of them never really got on. But I can’t say anymore without ruining the ending (or anything else in the book for that matter!)

Anyway, read this! It’s brilliant and it’s released in book stores and with other very nice book sellers from the 14^th April. Read it I tell you! J