Showing posts with label Contemporary. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Contemporary. Show all posts
Speechless by Hannah Harrington
Speechless Pages: 288
Release Date: 1st February 2013
Publisher: MIRA ink
Add it: Goodreads
Everyone knows that Chelsea Knot can’t keep a secret
Until now. Because the last secret she shared turned her into a social outcast—and nearly got someone killed.
Now Chelsea has taken a vow of silence—to learn to keep her mouth shut, and to stop hurting anyone else. And if she thinks keeping secrets is hard, not speaking up when she’s ignored, ridiculed and even attacked is worse.
But there’s strength in silence, and in the new friends who are, shockingly, coming her way—people she never noticed before; a boy she might even fall for. If only her new friends can forgive what she’s done. If only she can forgive herself.
My Thoughts
Imagine you've done something wrong, something you know you should stop and something which result cannot be fixed. How would you feel? Really awfully bad right? And this perfectly describes Chelsea. She believed she was the cause of a tragedy. And she felt so bad. So bad that she took a vow of silence.
For Chelsea, that is big indeed. She's a sucker for gossip- basically she is the Queen of Babble. Like I have mentioned, it all changes for her. No friends. A social outcast. Nothing. And this, I actually liked. Cause, without her friends we get to see who Chelsea really is. I really liked her character though she was punishing herself a bit too much. But, I get where she's coming from and we really get to see everything going on in her head.
When she finally does speak up, I was relieved. It would have been better if it was earlier as it was for a long time. But one little thing that did bug me was when she started to speaking again I thought it would be something spectacular. You know like, big words, big ideas - reality check dudes! I'm not saying it wasn't good it was, just not up to my expectations I think.
Aside from Chelsea, what about the other characters? I really really liked Asha. She looks past people's fault and is always so nice and so sweet! Then there's Noah and Andy. They're all such a fun and colourful bunch.
Oh including Sam - the love interest. *sigh* He's a really nice guy and also seems so very perfect. What I really like about Sam, is you couldn't be sure of his feeling. There wasn't the insta-love thing going on. That's to be expected seeing as Sam didn't really like Chelsea at first. When they first started talking it was on a project they had to work together so he wasn't head over heels about it. That was the build up to a friendship and more.
Hannah Harrington is an amazing writer. Read her books people. Especially Speechless cause it truly left me speechless :D
Other Books: Saving June
The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han
The Summer I Turned Pretty
by Jenny Han
Pages: 276
Release Date: June 3rd 2010
Publisher: Puffin
Series: Summer #1
Other books in Series: It's Not Summer Without You, We'll always have Summer
Source: For Review from Publishers
Buy it: Amazon
| The Book Depository | B&NAdd it: Goodreads
Some summers are just destined to be pretty.
Belly measures her life in summers. Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August. Winters are simply a time to count the weeks until the next summer, a place away from the beach house, away from Susannah, and most importantly, away from Jeremiah and Conrad. They are the boys that Belly has known since her very first summer -- they have been her brother figures, her crushes, and everything in between. But one summer, one wonderful and terrible summer, the more everything changes, the more it all ends up just the way it should have been all along.
My Thoughts
Okay, so let's get a few things cleared and out of the way first of all. If you're a sucker for summer lovin' romance, beach and hot boys this book is right up your street. It's just totally for you. Those elements are what makes this the perfect summer read. Although The Summer I Turned Pretty wasn't as good as I thought it will be, I still enjoyed it and I liked reading it a lot.
Enter Belly. She's this girl who's cute and really kiddy I guess. She turns pretty and everything changes. People look at her differently and by people I say in specifics- Conrad and Jeremiah. Jeremiah is like the guy who's just your really bestest friend or brother even. He's so much fun and such great company. Then there's Conrad. And what can I say... Dude, he iss hot. (Not that Jer isn't) But then there's all the other little qualities that Conrad has. The annoying kind.
And another guy comes into the picture too. Cam. Bleugh. I rather no talk about him. Why did he need to come into the book at all!? You guys will definitely understand my dislike for this guy, when you read this. He takes up majority of the word count but I gotta admit he is a decent guy. But my heart is only for Con and Jer :D
Another thing, there's quite a few flash backs back from Belly's childhood and all those memories that she had at The Cousins. My all time favourite place! It really helps to understand Belly, Conrad and Jeremiah and how things were like. There's not much of a plot in The Summer I Turned Pretty. Though Han doesn't let us down by giving us scenes and moments that take our breath away. Especially near the end. And it's that ending that makes me crave for the next book, It's Not Summer Without You :)
Saving June by Hannah Harrington
by Hannah Harrington
Pages: 322
Release Date: November 22nd 2011
Publisher: Harlequin
Source: Onilne ebook
Buy it: Amazon | The Book Depository | B&N
Add it: Goodreads
‘If she’d waited less than two weeks, she’d be June who died in June. But I guess my sister didn’t consider that.’
Harper Scott’s older sister has always been the perfect one so when June takes her own life a week before her high school graduation, sixteen-year-old Harper is devastated. Everyone’s sorry, but no one can explain why.
When her divorcing parents decide to split her sister’s ashes into his-and-her urns, Harper takes matters into her own hands. She’ll steal the ashes and drive cross-country with her best friend, Laney, to the one place June always dreamed of going California.
Enter Jake Tolan. He’s a boy with a bad attitude, a classic-rock obsession and nothing in common with Harper’s sister. But Jake had a connection with June, and when he insists on joining them, Harper’s just desperate enough to let him. With his alternately charming and infuriating demeanour and his belief that music can see you through anything, he might be exactly what she needs.
Except June wasn’t the only one hiding something. Jake’s keeping a secret that has the power to turn Harper’s life upside down again.
My Thoughts
I struggled writing Saving June as a proper review. After hours of thought, I decided to take a different approach. And here I am, my thoughts as a letter. As this the best way I can completely express my
Dear Hannah Harrington,
I have not the faintest idea where to begin but first, to express my need to say OH MY FRICKIN DAYS, you are amazing! Saving June is simply amazing. It's heartfelt, bewildering, outstanding and I am completely and undeniably in love with it.
Oh, the characters! I love how Harper's issues made her a stronger person. How she knew she could rely on her best friend Laney to do anything and go anywhere for her. But mostly, I'm thankful for Jake.
The events are simple yet extraordinary.
With settings as beautiful as the elegance of writing.
Saving June is just...
Uplifting.
Imaginative.
A M A Z I N G.
Thank you for blessing readers with this book.
I cannot possibly thank you enough.
Yours infinitely thankful,
Mia
The One That I Want by Jennifer Echols
The One That I Want by Jennifer Echols
Pages: 320
Release Date: February 7th 2011
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Source: Online eBook
Buy it: Amazon
Add it: Goodreads
Gemma can’t believe her luck when the star football player starts flirting with her. Max is totally swoon-worthy, and even gets her quirky sense of humor. So when he asks out her so-called best friend Addison, Gemma’s heartbroken. Then Addison pressures Gemma to join the date with one of Max’s friends. But the more time they all spend together, the harder Gemma falls for Max. She can’t help thinking that Max likes her back—it’s just too bad he’s already dating Addison. How can Gemma get the guy she wants without going after her best friend’s boyfriend?
My Thoughts
Somebody should kick me! Why have I waited so long to read a book by Jennifer Echols? No, Wait. It's not even that. I did read Forget you (which I loved just so know you). So the real question is, why after loving a book so so much by Jennifer Echols did I not grab another one of her books straight away?
Okay I'll spare you the answer but at least now you know you should if you haven't already, start reading something if anything by this amazing women.
We meet Gemma and when there's Gemma there's Addison. Her 'best friend' and so we are told. She's the very reason of the huge complication in this book. God. She's SO ANNOYING and ruins everything. Then we are graced with the presence of yummy Max and Conor. Ahhhhh Max! So when Gemma and Addison meet these guys things start to get really interesting...
And you know what else is interesting... oh and pretty cool? It's this entire majorette idea that's brought in as well. It's just this awesome dance that involves twirling around batons. Echols description of the routines never fails to please me!
Oh and she sure knows how to suffice my romance crave. Especially hot kissing ;)
Now to just fulfill my Jennifer Echols crave...
The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith
The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith
Pages: 240
Release Date: January 5th 2012
Publisher: Headline
Source: For Review from Publishers
Buy it: Amazon
Add it: Goodreads
Who would have guessed that four minutes could change everything?My Thoughts
Today should be one of the worst days of seventeen-year-old Hadley Sullivan's life. She's stuck at JFK, late to her father's second wedding, which is taking place in London and involves a soon to be step-mother that Hadley's never even met. Then she meets the perfect boy in the airport's cramped waiting area. His name is Oliver, he's British, and he's in seat 18C. Hadley's in 18A.
Twists of fate and quirks of timing play out in this thoughtful novel about family connections, second chances and first loves. Set over a 24-hour-period, Hadley and Oliver's story will make you believe that true love finds you when you're least expecting it.
You know that gut wrenching feeling you get when there's such an amazing meal right in front of you, that looks so delicious, so appealing and smells so uplifting that you can't possibly wait to get into it? All you want to do is pick each bite as slowly as possible savouring the taste and simply willing it to last forever though at the very same time you can not wait to finish it entirely so that you can sit there in complete satisfaction and let your thoughts revolve around just how GOOD really it was.
You got it! This is exactly like what I got before I read TSPLFS, as I was reading TSPLFS and after I read TSPLFS. Doesn't this just show my complete adoration and affection for this completely awesome, awesome book? I didn't believe I would love this book so much.
It's a completely normal story. Nothing special but the way it was written was oh so very special. We meet Hadley and Oliver, two people that meet at a airport and spill their worries of their life and talk about everything. In this 24 hour journey we get to see how everything is not about love at sight, how fast relationships can progress and how much we crave for everything to go to our liking.
Hadley has a great personality. She’s a fun character but let’s forget about her and move on to... how I love Oliver! He's just so real you know. No perfect smoochness. With problems of his own, insecurity, he has genuine and real feelings. Don’t see that much often in YA now do we? OMG. He’s British too. SWOON. I wanted so much more of Oliver. More of Hadley. More of Hadley and Oliver together! Though TSPLFS was just so freckin short. I’m talking about 240 pages dude :O
What else is there to say than just go buy the book. Really, experience it all for your self. Oh and one more thing... I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS BOOK. In case you didn't know already :D
The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson
by Jandy Nelson
Pages: 320
Release Date: June 6th 2011
Publisher: Walker Books
Source: For Review from Publishers
Buy it: Amazon
Add it: Goodreads
Seventeen-year-old Lennie Walker, bookworm and band geek, plays second clarinet and spends her time tucked safely and happily in the shadow of her fiery older sister, Bailey. But when Bailey dies abruptly, Lennie is catapulted to center stage of her own life—and, despite her nonexistent history with boys, suddenly finds herself struggling to balance two. Toby was Bailey's boyfriend; his grief mirrors Lennie's own. Joe is the new boy in town, a transplant from Paris whose nearly magical grin is matched only by his musical talent. For Lennie, they're the sun and the moon; one boy takes her out of her sorrow, the other comforts her in it. But just like their celestial counterparts, they can't collide without the whole wide world exploding.
This remarkable debut is perfect for fans of Sarah Dessen, Deb Caletti, and Francesca Lia Block. Just as much a celebration of love as it is a portrait of loss, Lennie's struggle to sort her own melody out of the noise around her is always honest, often hilarious, and ultimately unforgettable.
My Thoughts
WOW. I have no idea how to express how much I enjoyed this book. It was just really really really good with no exaggeration whatsoever. It left me thinking about it a lot even after finishing the book and so I'm extremely glad I picked it up.
Lennie doesn't understand what's going through her mind. Bailey, her sister, is dead. At her funeral all Lennie could think about was smacking lips with every guy at that funeral. She feels so lost and out of place right and doesn't know what she possibly could do without her Bailey. On top of that, she sets her eyes on someone she possibly couldn't be with. What else could possibly happen?
The Sky is Everywhere is amazing. Truly amazing. I loved everything about it, the poetry the element of music just everything. And oh what I especially loved was how at the end of every they'll be a sort of note that perfectly explains Lennie's feelings. I loved waiting to see what note each chapter would hold.
Lennie feels alone and distraught. It's really sad to see her in this way but then again she has got two guys all to her self. Toby and Joe. Toby and Joe are both great guys. Adorable, cute and so loving! I love reading about them and I love it when they're in the picture. But I've got to say I like Joe better. Joe as he's the right guy for her and Toby isn't for obvious reasons.
The entire book was wound perfectly. The characters, events, and the magic of the music kept me thoroughly entranced. Nelson has wowed me with this book. It left me speechless and wanting more. Mind blowing and compelling this is a book that needs to be on your bookshelf. I absolute recommended it. Heck, just go buy it!
Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins
by Stephanie Perkins
Pages: 338
Release Date: September 29th 2011
Publisher: Dutton
Other Books: Anna and the French Kiss & Isla and the Happily Ever After
Source: Won in a Giveaway
Buy it: Amazon
Add it: Goodreads
Budding designer Lola Nolan doesn’t believe in fashion . . . she believes in costume. The more expressive the outfit -- more sparkly, more fun, more wild -- the better. But even though Lola’s style is outrageous, she’s a devoted daughter and friend with some big plans for the future. And everything is pretty perfect (right down to her hot rocker boyfriend) until the dreaded Bell twins, Calliope and Cricket, return to the neighborhood.
When Cricket -- a gifted inventor -- steps out from his twin sister’s shadow and back into Lola’s life, she must finally reconcile a lifetime of feelings for the boy next door.
My Thoughts
Ohhhh LOLA! Where can I begin with this ah-mazing book. Because it was, you know, amazing. I really much enjoyed reading it. After reading Anna and the French Kiss and just being completely 'WOWed' by it, I was so so eager to read the companion novel. And am I so glad I did.
Lola is not your average teenage girl. Her way of life is completely different especially when you count in her dress sense. Lola adores dressing up like any other girl out there but she takes it to great heights dressing up in different costumes every day. For Lola, her life couldn't get any better. She has a great life and her 'amazing' boyfriend Max. But it was until Cricket and Calliope showed up.
Perkins totally rocks my world. I lurrrrveeee her writing. At first I loved Lola and Max as a couple, they seemed pretty cute and I gotta say I did kinda like Max then. I say then as I don't like him now. One word. JERK. But then it all makes up whenever Cricket is in the picture. He just so sweet!! Seriously, how sweet and cute and adorable and amazing can he get! I was a bit peckish at first as he seemed just too nice and so it was just that tad weird. But no no that's just nothing to worry about!
As much as I enjoyed Lola, I have got to say that it wasn't as good as Anna. I loved Lola though, I loved it so much that I'm sure I'll read it over and over and over again just as I did with Anna. Oh and boy did I love it when St Clair and Anna came in. Cute moments!
If only we could pester Perkins and get Isla and the Happily Ever After released quicker. I'll probably die waiting!
Love, Inc by Yvonne Collins and Sandy Rideout
by Yvonne Collins and Sandy Rideout
Pages: 448
Release Date: September 1st 2011
Publisher: Allison & Busby
Source: For Review from Publishers
Buy it: Amazon
Add it: Goodreads
Zahra, Kali, and Syd would never have met if their parents' marriages hadn't fallen apart. But when the three girls collide in group counseling, they discover they have something else in common: they've each been triple-timed by the same nefarious charmer, Eric, aka Rico, aka Rick. Talk about eye-opening therapy.
Cheerful, diplomatic Zahra is devastated. Rico had been her rock and sole confidant. How could she have missed the signs? Folksy, flirtatious Kali feels almost as bad. She and Rick had only been on a few dates, but they'd felt so promising. Hardened vintage-vixen Syd is beyond tears. She and Eric had real history... Or so she'd thought. Now all three girls have one mission: to show that cheater the folly of his ways.
Project Payback is such a success, the girls soon have clients lining up for their consulting services. Is your boyfriend acting shady? Dying to know if your crush is into you? Need match-making expertise? Look no further than Love, Inc.
My Thoughts
Being a major fan of chick lit novels, I knew that when I received Love, Inc it was just right for me. It was a great read. It had me laughing at loud, gripping the pages for more and wondering what could possibly go wrong next. I loved this!
Zahra believes she has the most perfect boyfriend. Rico is so sweet and caring. He always listens to her and is there for her. Especially, since her parents split. This then lead to group counseling helping her deal with her parents split. Here, she meets two other teenagers, Kali and Syd. They get along pretty fast and soon giggle about their amazing boyfriends. Zahra, Kali and Syd soon find out how loyal their boyfirends' are in this case, boyfriend.
I love all the characters. I particularly have a soft spot for Zahra, though. Her character is simply funny and entertaining. Her hone life even has the ups and downs too. I really don't know how she handles it. Because her family has Pakistani roots mixed with American customs, it makes everything much more different yet I loved seeing how everything would work out. Though, the best part I must admit was what Zahra and the girl got up to. They sure proved how payback is a bitch.
The best thing about Love, Inc was all the romance. I'm a sucker for love and it was written just great. Though, I did think the story dragged on abit but it was made up at the end. I wasn't disappointed. If you're looking for a fun, light and amazing read, Love, Inc is perfect for you!
You Against Me by Jenny Downham
by Jenny Downham
Pages: 413
Release Date: December 2nd 2010
Publisher: David Fickling Books
Source: For Review from Publishers
Buy it: Amazon
Add it: Goodreads
If someone hurts your sister and you're any kind of man, you seek revenge, right? If your brother's been accused of a terrible crime and you're the main witness, then you banish all doubt and defend him. Isn't that what families do? When Mikey's sister claims a boy assaulted her at a party, his world of work and girls begins to fall apart. When Ellie's brother is charged with the crime, but says he didn't do it, her world of revision, exams and fitting in at a new school begins to unravel. When Mikey and Ellie meet, two worlds collide. Brave and unflinching, this is a novel of extraordinary skillfulness and almost unbearable tension. It's a book about loyalty and the choices that come with it. But above all it's a book about love - for one's family and for another.
My Thoughts
You Against Me was a book I adored. It was really enjoyable and realistic too. I never read any books by Downham before so I really didn’t know what to expect. I’m glad I picked this up. It had a great storyline so I had no problem in getting into the world of Ellie and Mickey.
In You Against Me, Mickey discovers that his sister has been assaulted at a party and so his world comes crashing down. Meanwhile, Ellie life doesn't get any better as it is her brother who has been charged of the assault. When their two worlds collide, anything can happen.
I completely loved Micky. I adore how much he loves his family and would do anything for them. Though, there were times that I had to question his actions but everyone has flaws. I just love reading about him and getting to know him better. Ellie is also another great character. She's very vulnerable yet very sweet. And so I just loved their scenes together. It's a love story and a great one too. I loved seeing their relationship grow and develop. The chemistry and everything is together, their simply perfect for each other.
The story alternates between Ellie and Mickey but also gives us a great glimpse at their families. Their expectations and thoughts. Elllie and Mickey are from different worlds and it's a wonder to see how they would get along. Downham's writing is unbelievable good. It's completely honest and very real.
You Against Me was so good! It's a fantastic novel. I'm looking forward to reading more books by Jenny Downham! Read this, you're missing out on something that's simply awesome!
Brother/Sister by Sean Olin
by Sean Olin
Pages: 272
Release Date: August 4th 2011
Publisher: Puffin
Buy the Book: Amazon UK | Amazon US
Will and Asheley have a troubled past. Their father left them when they were little, and their mother has just been carted off to an alcohol treatment center. Now, they have the house to themselves, and an endless California summer stretching out before them. Through alternating perspectives, they tell the story of how and why their lives spun violently out of control—right up to the impossibly shocking conclusion you'll have to read for yourself to believe.
My Thoughts
Brother/Sister is a different sort of book. As dark as the cover is the story with a unsettling plot and a killer twist. Though, this book had an ending that will make you re-think and question about everything you've just read.
In California, we meet Will and Asheley two teenagers that have already had their share of action in the summer. Brother/Sister is alternated between Will and Asheley's perspectives with deep confessions. Will and Asheley didn't have the best upbringing. Their alcoholic mother and absentee Father haven't always been there for them. This left Will to run the house leaving him breaking himself as time went by. Will and Ashley are two different people. As Will is presented as the more of a loner, Asheley is the opposite being more sociable and active.
I was a bit hesitant at first in reading Brother/Sister at first as I heard that there was a lot of incest. However, that was not the case at all. Will is very overprotective of Asheley and so he loves her dearly but maybe too much? Their relationship does tilt a couple of times but this does not spell incest.
Brother/Sister is definitely a fast-paced page turner. I particular love Olin's writing style, it completely lures you in. Something is always happening proving it to be action packed and very thrilling. It's a dark, unsettling read that will give you the creeps.
Eight Keys by Suzanne LaFleur
by Suzanne LaFleur
Pages: 272
Release Date: August 11th 2011
Publisher: Puffin
Buy the Book: Amazon UK | Amazon US
Elise and Franklin have always been best friends. Elise has always lived in the big house with her loving Uncle and Aunt, because Elise's parents died when she was too young to remember them. There's always been a barn behind the house with eight locked doors on the second floor.
When Elise and Franklin start middle school, things feel all wrong. Bullying. Not fitting in. Franklin suddenly seems babyish. Then, soon after her 12th birthday, Elise receives a mysterious key left for her by her father. A key that unlocks one of the eight doors upstairs in the barn...
My Thoughts
As soon as I started reading Eight Keys, I was very intrigued to find out what secrets these keys will unlock. The synopsis had me hooked and it was only after a matter of pages into Eight Keys that I knew this book was something special.
Elise, the main character, is a 11 year old girl whose parents have both died leaving her in the care of her uncle and aunt. It's only until her 12th birthday that she notices a key addressed to her. And from that moment, many doors opened, many challenges are met and many lessons are learnt.
Elise is a great girl with an amazing friend, Franklin. Franklin is the type of friend that anyone would love to have. You could say he's very near to perfect. Nothing seems to set him and he is always there for Elise through think and thin. That's what I love about him. He's cute, caring and very childish. However, Elise believes his 'childlike' attitude isn't very grown up.
This is where Elise's locker buddy, Amanda comes in. I utterly despise her. Mainly because of what she does to Elise. It's quite funny how one small mean repetitive action like squashing your lunch every single day can make you really really not like someone. At least, shje got what she deserve at the end. Though not as quite I was expecting.
I really enjoyed Eight Keys. It's a book for all ages I believe. It had me wanting to read more. I look forward to reading more books by Suzanne LaFleur! An uplifting and insightful read.
Pretty Twisted by Gina Baxill
by Gina Baxill
Pages: 275
Release Date: May 6th 2011
Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
Buy the Book: Amazon UK | Amazon US
Ros has a secret crush on Jonathan. Jonathan is massively hung up on Freya (even after she dumps him). And Freya? Well, Freya is a beautiful enigma. Even more so when she goes missing without a trace..."Pretty Twisted" is narrated in alternating chapters by Jonathan (16) and Ros (14) who meet online at a time when things are going sour for Jonathan. His stunning girlfriend, Freya, is away at college and they are growing apart - consequently, he is struggling with his own sense of identity. Ros is also experiencing some problems - one of her friends is dating an older man whose strange behaviour gives Ros cause for concern. Meanwhile, the local news has been reporting some kidnappings of teenage girls. So when Freya dumps Jonathan, then seems to disappear off the face of the earth, he enlists Ros' (somewhat reluctant) help in tracking down the girl he still loves. With danger lurking around every corner, their stories become inextricably linked in a way nobody could have predicted...
My Thoughts
I knew that I'll really like Pretty Twisted as soon I read the synopsis. It says it all. A girl goes missing and no one knows a thing about it. And so people go and try and find her. It' a mystery sort of book. Mysteries I love.
Pretty Twisted is divided between a girl, Ros and a guy, Jono. I loved Jono instantly. One reason? His geekyness! He's so cute and that his girlfriend, well ex-girlfriend, Freya transformed him. I was more than glad. He really sounded hot and sophisticated too. Ros is like one of those typical teenagers. She struggles through her friendships and than confides in another through the Internet on MyPlace- Jono.
Jono and Ros have their share of problems. I love how they confide in each other and how they be for one another. Especially, when Freya goes missing they both play a key role in getting her back. Though, even though Freya was a central part of the plot, I don't think we got to see much of her character.
Nevertheless, I really really loved this book. One tiny thing though, I'm not a big fan of the way things ended with Jono and Ros. Why couldn't- ...nope I'm not giving anything away. I'm sure it's pretty obvious though!Pretty Twisted is a hell of a book. Fast paced, engaging and pretty unpredictable, I found this to be a truly gripping read.
Stolen by Lucy Christopher
by Lucy Christopher
Pages: 301
Release Date: May 4th 2009
Publisher: Chicken House
Buy the Book: Amazon
Sixteen year old Gemma is kidnapped from Bangkok airport and taken to the Australian Outback. This wild and desolate landscape becomes almost a character in the book, so vividly is it described. Ty, her captor, is no stereotype. He is young, fit and completely gorgeous. This new life in the wilderness has been years in the planning. He loves only her, wants only her. Under the hot glare of the Australian sun, cut off from the world outside, can the force of his love make Gemma love him back? The story takes the form of a letter, written by Gemma to Ty, reflecting on those strange and disturbing months in the outback. Months when the lines between love and obsession, and love and dependency, blur until they don't exist - almost.
My Thoughts
Stolen was one of those books that got me reading from the very first page. Scratch that. From the very first sentence. It was just that good. And the entire book? Remarkable. Just remarkable. I loved it!
Stolen is written in the form of a letter. So, it's in second person. And I really liked that. One of the reasons why it's simply amazing. It gave a more strong connection and I loved how it was written. Complicated? Yes. But, amazing.
Gemma is strong. She hangs in their you know. Ty, her captor, thinks that he can just kidnap a random girl just because he ‘loves’ her. How ridiculous. Gemma is scared and alone and I totally sympathised with her throughout the entire book. She never gave up, always trying to escape in one way or another just hoping and yearning for freedom. Just gotta love that realism.
As the book went on however, I started to like Ty. I don’t know why. Probably because he’s kind, caring and not aggressive in any way whatsoever. I had this little part of me that wished Gemma would gradually like Ty too. See what this book does! It makes you bewildered in such an amzingly weird way.Ty's and Gemma's relationship is just complex and powerful.
That's another thing. You won't know what to feel. Wrong or right. Yes and No. And the ending is something else entirely. I don't know whether I sould be happy or sad. But I truly believe one thing, Ty and Gemma have a connection.
Very profound and intense, there's no doubt that I loved this book. It had me intriguied, alarmed and amazed. Stolen will whisk you off your feet making it an unforgettable fall.
How to Ruin a Summer Vacation by Simone Elkeles
by Simone Elkeles
Pages: 234
Release Date: October 1st 2006
Publisher: Flux
Buy the Book: Amazon
Moshav? What’s a moshav? Is it “shopping mall” in Hebrew? I mean, from what Jessica was telling me, Israeli stores have the latest fashions from Europe. That black dress Jessica has is really awesome. I know I’d be selling out if I go with the Sperm Donor to a mall, but I keep thinking about all the great stuff I could bring back home.
Unfortunately for 16-year-old Amy Nelson, “moshav” is not Hebrew for “shopping mall.” Not even close. Think goats, not Gucci.
Going to Israel with her estranged Israeli father is the last thing Amy wants to do this summer. She’s got a serious grudge against her dad, a.k.a. “Sperm Donor,” for showing up so rarely in her life. Now he’s dragging her to a war zone to meet a family she’s never known, where she’ll probably be drafted into the army. At the very least, she’ll be stuck in a house with no AC and only one bathroom for seven people all summer—no best friend, no boyfriend, no shopping, no cell phone…
Goodbye pride—hello Israel.
My Thoughts
Let me start off by saying... Don't get put off by the blurb! Because, I sure was. I guess it's cause of the whole 'israil' thing. Seeing as what's being going on these days regarding Israel, I think I was bound to get put off
So then, after a week or two, I finally picked up the book. And hey! Guess what? I liked it, like I really really liked it. I should have known after reading Perfect Chemistry and Rules of Attraction that this would have the same effect as I had with the others
Amy is a character I can relate to. With a bubbly, sarky attitude, she's one hell of a character. It's funny how she sees Israel from her eyes and well the guys of course.
Any has a boyfriend? So? It doesn't stop her from eying up other guys. Usually, this would be a major problem for me but seeing as the boyfriend himself is a bit 'wayward' shall I say, It doesn't really matter.
Back to Amy and her 'eyes' she really does feel some chemistry with someone in particular, And let's just say things get pretty hot and steamy if you know what I mean ;D
I have to applaud Elkeles! Seriously with the unique names like 'O'snot'... I just can't help to LOL every time she's mentioned.
I really want to read How to ruin my teenage life! But unfortunately it's not in any of the libraries in the city... probably because it's US only edition :(
Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins
by Stephanie Perkins
Pages: 372
Release Date: December 2nd 2010
Publisher: Dutton
Source: Gifted by Vickie
Buy it: Amazon
Add it: Goodreads
Anna is looking forward to her senior year in Atlanta, where she has a great job, a loyal best friend, and a crush on the verge of becoming more. Which is why she is less than thrilled about being shipped off to boarding school in Paris—until she meets Étienne St. Claire: perfect, Parisian (and English and American, which makes for a swoon-worthy accent), and utterly irresistible. The only problem is that he's taken, and Anna might be, too, if anything comes of her almost-relationship back home.
As winter melts into spring, will a year of romantic near-misses end with the French kiss Anna—and readers—have long awaited?
My Thoughts
This is now one of my FAVOURITE books! I COMPLETELY LOVED IT!
From the very first page, Stephenie kept me completely engaged in a world revolving around romance, humour and suspense.
St.Claire or more preferable Etienne is so very down-to-earth! The way he is described simply shows complete hotness. I really love the relationship he and Anna have, especially with all the teasing. It is soooo obvious that they LOVE each other and Etienne is too blind to see through it.
The one thing I really loved was how their love grew by time. It was not the usual love at first sight idea, though Anna couldn't take her eyes off him when she first met him. They had their share of moments and each and every one is something to saviour.
This love story is definitely one of a kind. It's not overdone and it so does not drag on. It's very realistic and all the characters have something special about them. Their personalities come through perfectly and that gives the story more of a spark.
I absolutely loved reading Anna and the French Kiss. It just so frickin awesome! I am really really looking forward to reading more books by Stephenie Perkins! And yes, I CAN'T WAIT to read Lola and the boy next door! :D
Looking for Alaska by John Green
by John Green
Pages: 263
Release Date: July 3rd 2006
Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
Buy it: Amazon
Before. Miles “Pudge” Halter is done with his safe life at home. His whole life has been one big non-event, and his obsession with famous last words has only made him crave “the Great Perhaps” even more (François Rabelais, poet). He heads off to the sometimes crazy and anything-but-boring world of Culver Creek Boarding School, and his life becomes the opposite of safe. Because down the hall is Alaska Young. The gorgeous, clever, funny, sexy, self-destructive, screwed up, and utterly fascinating Alaska Young. She is an event unto herself. She pulls Pudge into her world, launches him into the Great Perhaps, and steals his heart. Then. . . . After. Nothing is ever the same
My Thoughts
At first, I was quite put off by reading Looking for Alaska. Reason? My friend had read it and liked it but didn't like it at the same time. So she had mixed emotions. I let this get to me. How stupid of me!
This book is awesome. I really really liked reading it! So, it's about this guy, Miles who has this thing of memorising people's last words. He moves to this boading school in the hope of making some new friends. A guy, Chip and a girl, Alaska come along becoming great friends with Miles. With these friends, he hopes to find his 'great perhaps'
Everthing was just so good! I loved Miles character! Okay so not just him, they were all so so awesome! Each charcter had something special and different about them and so it wasn't boring or anything like that at all!
There wasn't much of a plot but it doesn't really matter as something or another then did happen. The story kept going driven by the pranks, characters and words. That's what makes it different.
John Green sure knows what YA readers want to and need to read. And so for us, this simply has to be a big score :)
Runaway by Meg Cabot
by Meg Cabot
Pages: 275
Release Date: September 3rd 2010
Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
Series: Airhead Triology
Other books in series: Airhead and Being Nikki
Buy it: Amazon
Emerson Watts is on the run: from school, from her family and from herself. She's reeling from the shock that Nikki, the girl whose body her brain was forced to inhabit, is still alive. And she's furious. Manipulative Brandon plans to use Em to discover a secret that will ensure his success, whilst Christopher is out for revenge, fuelled by his jealousy. With everyone around her playing a dangerous game, maybe Em should just keep on running...
My Thoughts
With this final book in the Airhead trilogy, I have got to say it finished with marvel. I really enjoyed reading it escpecially since the last book, Being Nikki, left me off my feet with a very unexpected finish,
Em's witty and shinning character is so worth reading. As always, I love her attitude towards things, she's kinda badgirl with a great personality nevertheless. As Christopher dashes in as her knight in shinning armour, supposedly rescuing her, Em reveals many things. They turn out to be things that upset Christopher.
It's quite amusing how Christopher feels like he has to be 'needed'. I'm sure it's an abvious trait, wanting someone to need you around sometimes and just for the fun of it. When Em does finally admit that particular factor he goes over the moon. And kisses her. Very cute. But then not so cute when he disregards the entire things. What can I say? Boys will be boys!
There's certaintly alot of action, humour and spark to this book. It finishes off very nicely and all the past events are wrapped up. Meg Cabot writes like magic as always! I love her all her books. A triology that is a must read!
Dreaming of Amelia by Jaclyn Moriarty
Dreaming of AmeliaPages: 578
Release Date: March 2nd 2010
Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
Buy it: Amazon
Amelia and Riley have transferred to Ashbury for their final year of school, and everyone is completely obsessed with them. Glamorous, talented and totally devoted to one another, the two of them drift through school in their own world. But there's more to the couple than meets the eye - they have secrets. And some of them are dangerous to share. As Riley starts to lose his grip on Amelia, the repercussions affect everyone around them. It is a spellbinding story about ghosts, secrets, madness, passion, locked doors, femme fatales, and that terrifying moment in the final year of high school when you realise that the future's coming to get you
My Thoughts
After reading the blurb of Dreaming of Amelia I was like WOW. It sounded so good! So, now that I've finished reading it I wouldn't say it was fantastic but it was really good.
I must day that the style of writing and the way Moriarty has presented her book is fantastic. It is so very unique. I don't see that kind of style in almost anywhere!
I loved how Riley and Amelia were almost sounded like celebrities. There were different accounts of how students at Ashbury High thought about them in the form of essays. Weird right? No, it was a clever was of portraying how people thought of Riley and Amelia.
Although, I must say there was no real action in the book. Nothing really big happened. Yet, it was still enjoyable to read.
Dreaming of Amelia is definitely different from many other YA books. That's what makes it a fun to indulge in. A pleasurable read.
I must day that the style of writing and the way Moriarty has presented her book is fantastic. It is so very unique. I don't see that kind of style in almost anywhere!
I loved how Riley and Amelia were almost sounded like celebrities. There were different accounts of how students at Ashbury High thought about them in the form of essays. Weird right? No, it was a clever was of portraying how people thought of Riley and Amelia.
Although, I must say there was no real action in the book. Nothing really big happened. Yet, it was still enjoyable to read.
Dreaming of Amelia is definitely different from many other YA books. That's what makes it a fun to indulge in. A pleasurable read.
Being Nikki by Meg Cabot
Being NikkiPages: 301
Release Date: July 1st 2009
Publisher: MacMillan Childrens'
Series: Airhead triology
Other books in series: Airhead and Runaway
Buy it: Amazon
Teen supermodel Nikki Howard has a secret. She's not the gorgeous golden airhead she seems - on the inside she's someone else. Literally. Em Watts is stuck in the body of glamazon celebutante Nikki. And it's not easy. Especially when Nikki's past is about to catch up with her, her boss is spying on her, and Em's heart wants one thing but her lips keep kissing someone else...
My Thoughts
After reading Airhead, the first book of the Trilogy, I just had to read the next book. I really loved the whole idea of brain transplanting. It's great to see all the bumps and bruises along the way. It was fantastic!
I loved it when Christopher found out Nikki was really Em. That was most definitely my favourite part. It was such a big relief! I couldn't stand seeing him so upset like over Em's death when she was really alive. He's just a amazing and great guy. They really do deserve each other!
I totally adore LuLu and Frida. Their characters are so funny and full of life so I love reading about them. They add humour to the book making it more enjoyable and great to read. Both of them fuss over such little things and are really bubbly and exciting.
When I read the ending of the book I was astonished. The look on Christopher's face when Em said she didn't love him but Brandon was soooooooo sad! I can't believe she did that to Christopher.
A gripping read. Obviously. I am in love with Meg Cabot's books :)
Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson
by Laurie Halse Anderson
Pages: 288
Release Date: January 3rd 2011
Publisher: Scholastic
Buy it: Amazon
“Dead girl walking,” the boys say in the halls.
“Tell us your secret,” the girls whisper, one toilet to another.
I am that girl.
I am the space between my thighs, daylight shining through.
I am the bones they want, wired on a porcelain frame.
Lia and Cassie are best friends, wintergirls frozen in matchstick bodies, competitors in a deadly contest to see who can be the skinniest. But what comes after size zero and size double-zero? When Cassie succumbs to the demons within, Lia feels she is being haunted by her friend’s restless spirit.
In her most emotionally wrenching, lyrically written book since the multiple-award-winning Speak, Laurie Halse Anderson explores Lia’s descent into the powerful vortex of anorexia, and her painful path toward recovery...
My Thoughts:
I want to start off by saying what an exceptionally powerful book this is. Really. It's one of those books that make you think. About yourself. About your life. About others too.
It’s very realistic. Everything that goes on in Lia's life is in one way or the other relateable. The whole idea of Anorexia was at first a bit unnerving. Did I want to read a book like this. Even though, it was disturbing it was hard to put the book down.
Cassie's death had a great impact upon Lia. It’s fascinating how she believed she was staying strong buy not eating. Her character is conveyed with so much clarity that it’s heartbreaking to read on.
Anderson's book is phenomenal. Her immaculate writing delivered Lia’s story beautifully. A definite must read!
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