To Live Forever or Not: Incarnate Series by Jodi Meadows

Just the Facts:

Overall Rating:  3 stars

Addiction Level:  I read it every waking moment.

Believe-ability:  The setting is believable.

~~~

What would I do if I had 5,000 years to live?  Would I make the most of my moments, waste my life away, or try new things?  Many people (in this series) perfected their art.  Some like Sam took on new projects and tried to become knowledgeable about many trades.

Drop an 18 year old soul into the mix and everything changes.  I like that Ana was curious and wanted to learn.  I was jealous at how easily playing, reading, and composing music came to her.  I was at her immaturity.  I reached a point in Asunder when I wanted to put the book down and walk away.  Ana’s whining and lack of understanding almost ruined the series for me.

I really enjoyed Sam, Stef, Sarit, Sine, Cris, and Armade.  I felt like they were my friends, my new family.  In fact I like them better than Ana.

Janan, the temple, bothered me from the beginning.  He was put forth as a god, but he did not love his people.  Nor did he love Ana.  While it took a while to reveal the truth, I was relieved and disgusted by Janan.  It makes me appreciate God more.  He loves his people and takes care of them.  He listens when we cry out; He is there.

While a lot of advancement was made, I was surprised at the difference between their society and ours.  They had aqueducts like the Romans and smartphones like us, yet they still lived in a community that focused on basic needs and simple pleasures.  I was surprised at the lack of televisions, computers (for gaming), and sports.

I was also reminded of how easily people dislike differences and are not willing to look past the exterior.  They will always be those who dislike change.  Is it easier to change the mind of someone who is 5,000 years old or a 5,000 year old culture?  Can new people/ideas change the world for the better? 

If you are looking for a thoughtful series with romance and adventure, pick up the Incarnate series by Jodi Meadows.

Wishing for Change: The Young Elites by Marie Lu

Just the facts:

Overall:  3 Stars

Addiction Level: I read it when I had spare time.

Believe-ability: It was believable. 

~~~~~

     The Young Elites is the newest book from author Marie Lu and is set to be another series. It follows a young Adelina Amouteru as she runs away from certain death and into the hands of the Dagger Society, a group of gifted young adults who would use their powers to protect others like themselves and change the negative attitudes toward them in their native kingdom.

My Experience 
     I had been really looking forward to starting this new series since I loved the Legend books. At first I had a little bit of a hard time getting involved in the story because the setting was not matching up with what I had expected in my mind. I continually struggled with it throughout the story, but I will say that I think that was my problem and not Lu's. I also had a hard time dealing with the fact that this story is an origin story for a villain. It is such a fresh concept that even though I started the book with that in mind I couldn't help but constantly think that Adelina was going to make a wise choice and save the day. It was really hard to remind myself that was not likely to happen.

The Book's Structure
     The book is told from alternating points of view, which was clear while reading. It also is told mostly in present tense with periods of flashbacks throughout.

Additional Thoughts
     Overall I loved the uniqueness of this story. The ending was satisfying while also leaving you wanting more. I think I will definitely have to reread this book before I read The Rose Society so that I can hopefully straighten out some of the kinks that I have in my mind. (Again, I think this is my fault, not the author's). 

 This is a sure recommendation for me, especially for those who want to read something a little darker.

Nothing to Write Home About: Atlantia by Ally Condie

Just the facts:

Overall:  2 1/2 Stars

Addiction Level: I read it when I had spare time. 

Believe-ability: It was believable. 

Dystopia Factor: The world is starting to disintegrate. 

~~~~~

       I was able to read a preview of Atlantia a couple of months ago. Although I wasn't completely sold on the concept and story, I was looking forward to borrowing the book to see what Condie had up her sleeve this time. Atlantia takes place in a future world where society has been separated into two colonies, one that lives above ground in a polluted atmosphere and one that lives below the sea. The two colonies depend upon one another for survival but as the story begins we start to learn that all is not what it seems. There is an overly familiar feel to the book as one of the very first scenes is that of the young adults choosing whether they would like to stay in Atlantia or go above ground. The story centers on sisters Rio and Bay, and the mystery of why one chooses to leave the other.

       I wouldn't say that the book was disappointing, but rather that it just fell flat. There were times when my only thoughts about what was happening were "this has been done before". The characters were nothing special. I didn't develop a connection to any of them and if you asked me to describe them or their appearance I don't think I would be able to. (I also didn't care for their names.) The relationship between Rio and True was lackluster and I never even felt the development of their love. At one point it wasn't there and then it was, but it didn't read as insta-love either. It was almost an odd afterthought that had nothing to support it. 

       I did appreciate that Condie attempted a book with sisters at the center. It was nice to read something where family connections were important, even if the concept overall missed the mark. If another book comes out I will likely read it, but it certainly won't be a book that will be high on my TBR list.

For Entertainment Only: The Pirate's Wish by Cassandra Rose Clarke

Just the facts:

Overall: 3 Stars

Addiction Level: I read it every waking moment.

Believe-ability: It was believable.

Dystopia Factor: Eh. It’s “normal” life.

Favorite Quote: “I thought about Naji. Jackass. I thought about myself. Idiot.” (I don’t know why I find this so amusing, but I do.)

~~~~~

            The Pirate’s Wish is the sequel to The Assassin’s Curse and if The Assassin’s Curse was Naji’s book, then The Pirate’s Wish surely belongs to Ananna. The Pirate’s Wish definitely has a different feel to it as we get a better glimpse into the life of Ananna. There is a lot more pirating and sea battles and it seems like Ananna is in charge of things now.

            One of the things I liked best about this series (besides a refreshing story that doesn’t take three or more books to tell) is that the story is simply entertaining. It’s nice to read a story where you feel like the characters are just there to amuse you and provide an escape from our everyday world. Plus, it’s kinda fun to read about pirates (without it being commercialized, if that makes sense).

            There is still a major lack of development to the story and unfortunately some of my questions about Naji remain unanswered, but we finally find out what the “make life out of violence” thing turns out to be and that was pretty entertaining, not terribly believable, but entertaining none the less. So, I’m giving this book 3 stars and a recommendation for those who might just want to sit back and enjoy a story for what it is.  

Why the Hype?: Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell

Just the facts:

Overall:  2 Stars

Addiction Level: I read it when I had spare time.

Believe-ability: It was believable.

Dystopia Factor: Eh. It’s “normal” life.

~~~~~

            I’m not sure where to start with this book. It seemed to have rave reviews and since I’ve been reading a little bit of realistic fiction I thought I’d give this a try. I was aware that there was quite a bit of colorful language (over 200 swear words, according to this article. It also includes an interview with Rowell on the subject.) before I started and that it was being accosted by those who find joy in banning books. (This, regardless of the way I feel about this book, is not something I support at all.) What I found, however, is that first impressions stick with you, even when you try to lay them aside.

            My first impression of Eleanor & Park was disgust at the amount and variety of vulgar language. (Rowell supports her use of profanity in the above mentioned article, but as a reader I don’t really agree with all she has to say.) I really hate it when authors use profanity and particularly a lot of it. I find that it distracts from the story. Every time I came across string of curse words I was immediately pulled out of the story world and I had to try to force myself back in. It felt like I was involved in some stupid tug of war. Story world versus reality. Reality was pretty strong, by the way.

            After I got past the constant tug of war (which nearly made me quit the book) and finished the story I was mostly dumbfounded at the praise Eleanor and Park’s love story had received. Honestly, I didn’t find it that wonderful. There are plenty of amazing depictions of falling in love in young adult literature. This was not one of them. And that’s saying something – I’m a bit of a sucker for a good love story. (I’m very happily married to my high school sweetheart, at that.)

            What I found most enjoyable about Eleanor & Park was actually Park’s family. (Not the aim of the story I’m sure.) I really enjoyed the relationship that Park’s parents have. Park may have found them embarrassing, but what would the world be like if more parents were in love like they were? Children need the example of their parents to show them what love really is. And it’s good for children to see their parents show affection towards one another.

            Lastly, I will say that there was one scene in the book that really moved me. About half way through the book, Park’s mother comes to him seeking his forgiveness for how she had been treating Eleanor. I loved how, even though it was difficult for her, she realized that her behavior toward Eleanor was not what it should have been and it pains her to realize this. She is very open and honest during this exchange and it quickly became the best part of the book for me. 

Not What I Was Expecting: A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness

Just the facts:

Overall: 3 Stars

Addiction Level: I read it when I had spare time.

Believe-ability: It was believable.

Dystopia Factor: Eh. It’s “normal” life.

~~~~~

            A Monster Calls is more of a short story than a novel and it follows a thirteen year old Connor as he deals with the emotional impact of his mother’s cancer treatments. Connor is being picked on at school, dealing with a messed up family life, and experiencing a recurring nightmare when a new monster begins to visit him each night. This monster, however, is unlike his nightmare because Connor discovers that the monster is real and not a figment of his imagination. The monster makes a bargain with Connor that he will tell him three stories but that Connor will in turn tell him a story when the time comes. Connor never really agrees to this, but the monster carries on as if he did.

            I feel like I should say this book definitely could fall under the category of “cover deception”. Yes, I know you should never judge a book by its cover, but that’s easier said than done. I certainly was not expecting a hybrid realistic fiction/ fantasy novel. A pure fantasy novel, sure, but not the realistic fiction part of it.  It caught me off guard but I continued with the story because I have been reading a little realistic fiction lately. We have to try new things, yes?

            Although I thought the story was a little obvious (kids dealing with major illnesses seem to be pretty popular right now) there were some things I really liked about the book. First off, the book has some wonderful illustrations throughout. I read the eBook version and wished I would have had a hard copy so I could enjoy the illustrations more (they turned out ok in eBook form, but it’s just different than print). And secondly, I really enjoyed some of the writing. I don’t usually include many quotes in my reviews, but there were a number that stood out to me in A Monster Calls.

Stories are wild creatures, the monster said. When you let them loose, who knows what havoc they might wreak? (pg. 35)

It is a true story, the monster said. Many things that are true feel like a cheat. Kingdoms get the princes they deserve, farmers’ daughters die for no reason, and sometimes witches merit saving. Quite often, actually. You’d be surprised. (pg. 44)

“Son,” his father said, leaning forward. “Stories don’t always have happy endings.” This stopped him. Because they didn’t, did they? That’s one thing the monster had definitely taught him. Stories were wild, wild animals and went off in directions you couldn’t expect. (pg. 83)

            A Monster Calls isn’t necessarily a very surprising book or adventurous one, but it was worth the read, especially considering how short it was. Plus, Patrick Ness is a fantastic author. If you’ve read The Chaos Walking trilogy then you know exactly what I’m talking about.

Not Your Typical Assassin Story: The Assassin's Curse by Cassandra Rose Clarke

Just the facts:

Overall:  3 Stars

Addiction Level: I read it every waking moment. (It only took an afternoon.)

Believe-ability: It was believable.

Dystopia Factor: Eh. It’s “normal” life.

~~~~~

            The Assassin’s Curse takes place in a fantasy setting where a young pirate girl named Ananna is preparing to marry a man she’s never met from another pirate family. Ananna decides that she wants to make life plans for herself, including captaining her own pirate ship and decides to run away before she is married off and loses control over her own decisions. Unfortunately, this is taken as an insult (wouldn’t you be upset, too?) and her fiancée’s family sends an assassin after her to make amends for the snub. 

            After hiding out for a bit, it becomes clear to Ananna that she and the assassin, Naji, will eventually have a showdown and decides to take a stand. While in the midst of their face-off Ananna saves Naji’s life on a knee jerk reaction (which was pretty under-whelming, by the way) and activates a curse that binds the two together. When realization of this sets in, Ananna and Naji set off on a quest to break the curse and allow the two of them to resume their lives as best they can.

             Seeing as I’ve rated this book at 3 stars there are obviously some things that I didn’t like, though overall, I did enjoy the story. My biggest complaint is that there are aspects of the story that are not fully developed; and were they developed the story would be much more fulfilling. The biggest of these revolves around Naji himself. I like Naji as a character but I didn’t feel like there was a very clear picture of who he is. There was almost no back-story, only small hints that made me want to know more. Who is he really? Why did he become an assassin? Will we find out the answers to these questions in book two? The story also relies heavily on the use of magic, but I still feel like magic wasn’t really connected to the story. There was something missing. And what role do assassins really play in this story world? I could understand the story world but still felt a little lost.

            However, the book did have many redeeming qualities too. I really enjoyed a story where there was no insta-love. Eventually Ananna realizes she has feelings for Naji, but I’m not really sure that she knows what or why she likes him, and that’s okay. I like that Ananna is not overly dependent on Naji but also is not overly feminist in her attitudes and beliefs. It seems that authors often feel that in order to make a strong female character that the character must be anti-male in their beliefs. This is not true. A female character can still be strong and need or want the help of a man. Usually a feminist character just comes across as bitchy and unpleasant, to me at least. I think Ananna strikes a nice balance.

            The story ends at a bit of an odd point but I am actually looking forward to finishing the story in the sequel. I have lots of questions that I would like answered and the only way to find out is to read on! I will say that even though the story could be more developed it is an easy read and some of my hang-ups kind of melted away if I just took the story at face value and didn’t over think my stumbling blocks. 

Such a Foul Smell: Masque of the Red Death by Bethany Griffin

Just the facts:

Overall: 3 Stars

Addiction Level: I read it every waking moment.

Believe-ability: It was believable.

~~~~~

            In a purposefully undeclared past (or future?), a terrible plague has spread like wildfire and threatens the entire population. The daughter of the scientist who has created a mask that keeps the wearer safe from the plague, Araby Worth lives a life of luxury, known only to the wealthy elite. Since all daily life is pretty much at a stand still, Araby spends her time going to the Debauchery Club with her friend April, where April hooks up with whomever is available and Araby gets high on whatever drugs she can find.

            Enter the family man/bouncer at the Club, Will. Araby is drawn to the normalcy of his life, the way he takes care of his brother and sister, and his softer side. Ah, but what’s a YA story without a love triangle? So of course Araby also catches the eye of April’s brother, Elliot. Elliot is pretty much the opposite of Will. He’s the extremely wealthy nephew of Prince Prospero, is hell bent on rebelling against his uncle, and will resort to less than tasteful means to accomplish his goals.

 What will happen to Araby and her friends when the already dreadful plague develops into something worse? And who will save the people from Prince Prospero’s neglectful eye?

Although I liked the overall uniqueness to this story, I felt that it fell flat in many areas. My first and biggest disappointment came with this book being labeled as steampunk. I am certainly no expert when it comes to steampunk, but when you have an entire science fiction sub-genre to work with, I would think that you could come up with more than steam carriages and a fancy disease proof mask. I’m just saying, you have all of human history and then some to create some awesome steampunk machinery and the biggest thing you’ve got is a steam carriage?! Child’s play.

I also didn’t like the fact that Araby resorted to drug use to dull her feelings about life. Although I understood the reasons behind it, I didn’t feel like it actually fit Araby’s character. I think it could have been more believable if she actually displayed some attributes of an addict. She supposedly gets so high that she passes out on a regular basis, but when she goes for a stretch without drugs she doesn’t display any longing for it. She doesn’t have physical side effects, which she would if she was cut off from her supply, and she doesn’t have emotional effects from withdrawal either. Here is a girl who doesn’t care what she shoots up with as long as she doesn’t have to feel, but she can go without her fix no problem? I don’t buy it.

Lastly, by the end of the book, everyone Araby knows turns out to be full of deception. (And I mean everyone.) Why does Araby trust any of her friends, acquaintances, or family if she believes that they have all lied to her and used her? I dislike the idea of everyone being so deceitful and I dislike that Araby still chooses to be around them if they are indeed as they seem. Obviously, these are questions that will be answered in the second book, but it leaves a sour taste in my mouth as I finish the first. 

Go Volunteer: The Collector by Victoria Scott

Overall Rating:  2 stars

Addiction Level:  I read it every waking moment.

Believe-ability:  Some aspects were real; others were not.

Dystopia:  It’s a mixture of real life and paranormal life.

~~~

The Collector started out with great promise.  Dante, a smart-alec dead human turned demon, enters the stage.  He’s cocky and funny.  Do I want him to be my best friend?  No.  Nonetheless, I like his ‘tude.  His goal is to collect a girl’s soul for the Boss Man, aka Lucifer.  He’s got plenty of swag, and he struts his stuff.  The first section was funny.

After the first section the story plummets.  Dante begins to a gain a conscience as he realizes the repercussions of his actions.  He feels guilty for his actions.  The story becomes a sappy love story with a predictable story line and nice, neat ending. 

To add insult to injury Scott’s version of good and bad and heaven and hell are not fully developed and are wrong.  I was intrigued and impressed at Scott’s nod to Dante’s Inferno and Milton’s Paradise Lost.  However, she did not take either allusion far enough, and she did not successfully create her own world.  [Scott’s world does not have nine levels of hell as in the Inferno.  (See Cheryl Bentley’s Petronella & The Trogot for a modern Inferno.)  Scott was also not true to Paradise Lost.  Humans cannot become angels and demons.]

Scott’s theology is based on works where good outweighs evil.  She seems to believe that a little good can conquer a lifetime of bad.  Dante’s good act redeems him from a lifetime and afterlife of evil.  It is like a mass murderer saving a kitten from a tree and being pardoned for his life of crime. (Thanks Tina!)  Really? 

In reality there is nothing we can do to gain God’s favor.  There is no deed good enough.  This is why Christ had to die for our sins.  Those that believe in Jesus have eternal life. 

There is one redeeming quality of this book:  Charlie’s organization, Hands Helping Hands.  People help each other with the promise to help others.  For example, Charlie’s group did yard work for an elderly lady who then volunteered to answer phones for a crises center.  It is paying it forward at its best. 

Rather than read this book, go out and volunteer.  Help someone who needs help and ask them to pass it on.

           

Fantasy Friday: The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner

Just the facts:

Overall: 2 Stars

Addiction Level: I read it when I had spare time.

Believe-ability: It was believable.

~~~~~

            The Thief is the story about a legendary treasure that allows the receiver to rule over the country and live an unnaturally long life. In the story, the King of Sounis allows his Magus to go on a quest to recover the gift which will then allow him to begin taking over the adjoining countries of Eddis and Attolia. Unfortunately, the treasure is in a location where only a masterful thief can retrieve it. The Magus enlists the help of such a thief, by the name of Gen, from the King’s prison and they set off on their journey with two of the Magus’s apprentices and a bodyguard.

            Before I go on, there are a couple of boxes that I like my fantasy novel to check.

-          First, there must be action and adventure. Fantasy novels should have their fill of swordplay, bows, bruises, and the like. Give me some fight scenes, maybe a surprise attack even.

-          Second, like all books, there should be characters that I can really believe in. They may not be “good” or likeable, but I should feel a connection to them and really know who they are.

Here’s the catch. The Thief didn’t really hold any of that. The story line almost entirely follows the quest that the characters make to retrieve the gift. I get that, many fantasy novels have lengthy traveling involved. They are usually walking or traveling on horseback across a country. And that takes a while. However, in this story, they are just traveling and telling stories around the campfire. No action. No adventure. No suspense. Eat, sleep, travel. Yawn.

So, you might think, that the traveling would be the part of the story where there is a lot of character building. Our companions are spending every waking moment together, so surely we should be learning about them in an intimate manner versus a very superficial manner. Not so. Everything that we learn is so obvious that the characters might as well be puppets or stick figures. No meat and bones. I never developed feelings for any of the characters and by the time I reached what many people call the “surprise” ending, I wasn’t surprised. (It doesn’t take much to figure out that the narrator isn’t telling you everything.) I could really care less.

Now, I’ve seen reviews that say that the story really picks up in the following books and maybe it does, but for once, I don’t think I’ll finish a series. I should at least feel invested by the end of one book and I’m simply not.

Fantasy Friday: Scarlet by A.C. Gaughen

Just the facts:

Overall: 3 ½  Stars

Addiction Level: I read it every waking moment.

Believe-ability: It was believable.

Dystopia Factor: Eh! It’s “normal” life.

~~~~~

           

            Scarlet is a retelling of the classic Robin Hood story with a twist - Will Scarlet is actually a girl. The story follows the usual plot - taxes are due, the Sheriff is a jerk, and Robin Hood and his band are trying their best to take care of the townspeople without being caught for their crimes. Of course, I’ve always been a fan of Robin Hood but having a girl in the band is pretty entertaining. (Check out Rowan Hood: Outlaw Girl of Sherwood Forest for another awesome Robin Hood story with a twist.)

            Scarlet is a good story for those who just want an effortless read to escape into another world for a while. It’s not too suspenseful but has plenty of action. The story is a little predictable, but that’s easy enough to overlook if you know that going into it. I really only had two complaints about Scarlet: 1) Scarlet kinda got on my nerves. She throws quite the tantrum when she wants to, and 2) Some of the fight scenes are a little over the top. I mean, really, where did the Matrix-kung fu stuff come from? Eh, it is what it is.

            As a side note, reading Scarlet made me want to watch Robin Hood again, you know, the cartoon version? It's one of my all time favorite movies. 

Follow the Bread Crumbs: Shades of Earth by Beth Revis

Just the facts:

Overall: 3 ½   Stars

Addiction Level: I read it when I had spare time.

Believe-ability: I daydream about the created world and wonder how I fit in.

Dystopia Factor: The world has been turned upside down and all hope is lost!

~~~~~

             If you want a recap of previous books in this series check out our reviews for Across the Universe & A Million Suns.

            Shades of Earth continues Amy and Elder’s story as they prepare to leave Godspeed forever and begin a new life on Centauri-Earth. With their arrival on Centauri-Earth come new complications. For one, the time for the frozens to be reanimated officially arrives and all of the warnings and doubts of Orion fester within Elder. Add to that two very different groups of people trying to work together, a hostile environment, and the possibility of alien life forms and things aren’t really working in Elder or Amy’s favor.

            I must say that I have been pleasantly surprised by books lately. It seems as though we need to come up with some sort of quirky name for the third book that redeems the series. And Shades of Earth does just that. Revis craftily creates a new world outside of Godspeed, and having been stuck on Godspeed for two whole books sure makes you long for a new world (imagine being stuck there for centuries)! The new world is exciting, slightly dangerous and makes you start to question the authority and trustworthiness of many of the characters. Of course, Revis sticks to her mystery-style plot, but Centauri-Earth gives it a new feel.

            I mostly liked Shades of Earth, but I felt that the trail of crumbs was a bit too evident. Even from the start, I kept thinking, “There’s something up with _______”. And then it progressed to “__________ is definitely a _________ and __________”.  (Obviously, you get the idea that I’m trying not to spoil it, right?) But, through it all, I enjoyed the read and felt that there was a sufficient ending. I, however, don’t recommend reading it before bed because you might suffer from dinosaur related dreams or, in my case, dreams about too many embryos being created at once. Weird.