Review: Another Pan

Title: Another Pan
Author: Daniel and Dina Nayeri
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Publication date: October 25th 2011
Pages: 400
Format: Hardback

When I first saw the cover in book stores I knew I just had to have it! A Peter Pan story? Gimme Gimme!

I am so glad I picked this book up a few years ago (yes, that is how long its has been sitting on my bookshelves.)

There are a few things that I want to clarify first before I go any further into this review. A) You aren't going to get a step by step Peter Pan retelling B) You are going to get similarities but that is about it C) The similarities being character names, the Lost Boys, and Peter Pan never growing up.

That all said, if you're hoping for a Peter Pan retelling that is similar to the original story, you are not going to get Captain Hook, mermaids, or flying. But hey, you are still getting a Peter Pan :)

Overall, this book was pretty good, despite not being as close to the original I was hoping for. I really did like how the authors incorporated the original, by taking character names and ideas, and twisting and turning and adding a little bit of pixie dust to it to make there own version.

The story about bone dust and Egyptians was quite intriguing, so I really enjoyed these aspects. Egyptians in history class was always my favorite subject so when I read about the Egyptian stories in this book, I was even more intrigued.  If you find Egyptian history a bore, you will probably not enjoy this one as much. It is jammed pack with Egyptian-awesomeness.

The plot was interesting and fast paced. I was turning page from page eager to find out what happens next.

Like I said before, I really enjoyed this book, BUT, I really didn't enjoy the ending. I'm not going to spoil the ending or anything, but I will point out that the authors end the book with Peter Pan being an a-hole. Yes, a big one. I couldn't believe this! I even read back over a few pages to make sure I wasn't just imagining this. Who in their right mind would EVER end a book with Peter Pan being an a-hole? Seriously? Peter Pan is my all time favorite story, so when they did that I was pissed!

Still a five star rating though, just because I love the plot and characters so much :)

Review: Shades of Earth

Title: Shades of Earth
Author: Beth Revis
Publisher: Razorbill
Publication Date: January 15th 2013
Pages: 369
Format: Print/Hardback

Frex, that was amazing!

Across the Universe had me from the very beginning, turning page by page until the mystery was solved. A Million Suns had me wanting more by its end. Shades of Earth had my heart racing until the end, gosh, that end, had me so complete I couldn't help but think of Elder and Amy well after closing the book.

Have you ever read a book series that was truly incredible, but when you got to the end, the last book was such a disappointment you didn't  feel complete? Like there should have been more answers? No? Then how about a stand alone book? Yes? Same! Shades of Earth was not one of them, rest assured.

To be honest, I was a little eerie at first picking this one up. Truthfully I didn't want to a) feel disappointed b) miss the characters I've grown to love and c) get off Godspeed. A Million Suns is the type of series that really had me picturing myself on the ship, seeing everything happen first hand, thanks to Beth's awesome writing skills. That said, like many of Godspeeds inhabitants, I too did not want to leave Godspeed. Seriously, I wanted everyone to stay on the ship. Hahaha, silly, I know. But what goes up must come down, right?

I am SO glad I took that leap of faith and decided to leave Godspeed (so to speak).

Just like the first two books in the series, Shades of Earth was fast paced, but also had A LOT more action. So much was going on my eyes started to heart from the continuous back and fourth movement that usually entails when you're reading full out action-awesomeness. Gosh, this book, I can't even. Just amazing, truly amazing.

Okay, so the book was action-packed and fast paced, the characters were even better.The love between Amy and Elder is tested when both have to make big decisions that could mean life, death, or the cost of one's family. I couldn't believe how mature they've grown to become. First Elder was making life threatening decisions just because Amy was beautiful, to risking his own life trying to save those left behind on Godspeed. A true leader thinks of his people as a whole, and not just himself. This made me love Elder even more! And Amy, such courage to go against her family as well as standing up for Elder's people when her people are being jerks. The characters are so much more lovable in this book, so expect that :)

If you haven't picked Shades of Earth up yet, what are you waiting for? You will NOT be disappointed!

Word to Beth: Rewriting the draft for Shades of Earth, what was it? Three times? Truly paid off! Seriously!



Frexing....

all the way to the stars and back.

Follow me Friday (#15)

Good morning little piggies! I hope you've all been having a fine week thus far. I've had an amazing week! Anyways, it's Friday, time for another Follow me Friday. Hosted by AlisonCanRead and Parajunkee so be sure to follow along!

Q: We always talk about books that WE want. Let's turn it on its head. What books have you given other people lately?

A: Lately? Hmm, I've given my mother- in-law an extra copy of City of Bones and The Iron King. For Christmas my mom got me the Mortal Instruments in Hardback so I had a paperback spare to lend away. Also, my husband got me the complete boxed set of The Iron Fey series (came with a signed poster!) so I had a spare copy of The Iron King. So far she's been LOVING The Iron King, so I'm going to have to start that one soon. (Haven't read City of Bones or The Iron King yet ... guilty as charged)

I have also been lending out my Fruits Basket series to my friend (about 4 at a time). She's been loving those as well :)

How 'bout you? Let me know in the comments section. Don't forget to include the link to your blog so I can follow back!

Waiting on Wednesday (WOW #8)

Happy hump day everyone! I hope everyone is having a fantastic week so far! Waiting on Wednesday is a meme hosted by Breaking the Spine  so be sure to follow a long if you'd like!

There are quite a few books coming out this year I'm dying to get my hands on. To name just one though, I'd have to go with If I should Die by Amy Plum. This series is seriously amaze-balls! I'm really loving it so far and can't wait to read the last installment in this series. The whole idea of revenants is so intriguing and awesome, I wish I would have come up with the idea on my own, hahaha. 

I will not lose another person I love. I will not let history repeat itself.
Vincent waited lifetimes to find me, but in an instant our future together was shattered. He was betrayed by someone we both called a friend, and I lost him. Now our enemy is determined to rule over France’s immortals, and willing to wage a war to get what they want.
It shouldn’t be possible, none of it should be, but this is my reality. I know Vincent is somewhere out there, I know he’s not completely gone, and I will do anything to save him.
After what we’ve already fought to achieve, a life without Vincent is unimaginable. He once swore to avoid dying—to go against his nature and forsake sacrificing himself for others—so that we could be together. How can I not risk everything to bring my love back to me?

Release date: May 7th 2013

Review: Full Moon Kisses

Title: Full Moon Kisses
Author: Ellen Schreiber
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
Publication Date: December 26th 2012
Pages: 215
Format: Print/ Hard Covered

The minute I heard Ellen Schreiber was writing a new series featuring werewolves, the minute Full Moon was released I picked it up from the store right away. When that turned out to be enjoyable, I waited an entire year for it's sequel, Magic of the Moonlight. When that turned out to be just as good as the first, I of course picked up Full Moon Kisses the minute it was released.

Full Moon Kisses starts off where we last let off. Instead of one werewolf there are two, both deeply in love with Celeste. Until, Brandon's father develops a cure. Now, Brandon must decide to give up nights under the full moon, giving Nash the cure, or  stay a werewolf forever. Dun, dun, DUNNNNN!

Although Ellen Schreiber isn't the greatest writer out there, I mean, she's good, but there are other writers out there that have mind blowing writing, I really enjoy the stories she tells.

Full moon Kisses was a great ending to a trilogy. I'm glad we got to tie up some lose ends, and have an ending I was truly hoping for. If you enjoyed the first two I truly think you'll enjoy the last book. Fans of werewolves will like this series. Being a werewolf fan myself, I found this series enjoyable.

That being said, the ending was and wasn't what I was hoping for. You're introduced to a new character who at first seems hot, and okay, he is a total hottie, but the way his individual story ends isn't what I particularly liked or cared for. This character could have had a much better ending to his story, but instead I feel like Ellen kind of rushed it. I wish I could tell you how exactly she rushed it, but that would be spoiling the story, which is not in my policy.

Like the Vampire Kisses Series, although not as good, Once in a full moon series is a cute mini series.

Check it out if you're into werewolves, mini books/series, and overall fun. Ellen's books are something you don't take seriously like you would those popular books like Divergent and Legend or Across the Universe. Those books you really get into, but these books aren't. Just relax and have a little fun.

Review: The Raven Boys

Title: The Raven Boys
Author: Maggie Stiefvater
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Publication Date: September 18th 2012
Pages: 409
Format: Print/Hard Covered


In all honesty, I really don't know how I feel about this book. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed it, because if I didn't I wouldn't rate it 4 stars. That said, I feel like not enough happened in the book to make it interesting. Let me explain:

The Raven Boys was interesting in the fact that I liked the characters. Blue Sargent was a strong character who didn't let people walk all over her. I really likes this about her. The Raven Boys (not the title but the actual characters) were interesting too, in there own little ways. Gansey was funny and I liked how he talked. Really, I liked how he talked. Adam, becomes that tortured soul-type and I couldn't help but feel for him due to his predicament with his father. He was the most understanding of the group. And then there is Ronan. Not much to really say about him. For me, Ronan feels like the type of character that is just there. He has a story, but never gets to really tell it.

You see, there are a few different stories within this story. Each character has a story, a struggle they are all overcoming (or trying to). But you see, for me as the reader, I couldn't help but feel like each character's story took away from the bigger story. The author went too much into depth with each character. Although this isn't entirely bad, for me, it made for a not-so-interesting story. I was hoping for a thrilling adventure. Characters doing this and that in trying to discover this whole king business and what not.

However, I truly did enjoy the story. I know, this really makes no sense. It wasn't that interesting, but I enjoyed it? It was addictive! I don't know why but I always wanted to read it when I wasn't. For some reason Maggie pulled me in.

That said, I do recommend you try this story out. I LOVED Maggie's Wolves of Mercy Falls Series. LOVED IT! I really like her writing, so maybe that's why I was so addicted to it.

I'll be reading the sequel for sure. I need to find out where all those stories end.

Follow me Friday (#14)

Feature and Follow Friday is a meme hosted and created by AlisonCanRead and Parajunkee'sView. Be sure to follow along and comment below so I can return the favor! 

Q: Write a letter to your favorite character. Rant, rave or gush…just pretend like they are real and you just want to let them know a "few things". - Activity courtesy of author, Kelly Walker

I'm currently reading Obsidian, and I have a few words for Daemon. Here it goes...

Dear Daemon,

Stop being such a jerk! 

You're the hottest book character ever and you spend most of my time being an ass. 

I really like you, so when you're done being such a wiener, come my way. 

Sincerely,

Review: Scarlet

Title: Scarlet
Author: Marissa Meyer
Publication Date: February 5th 2013
Publisher: Feiwel and Friends
Pages: 464
Format: Print/ Hard covered

I am so happy I had the chance to pick this one up early. Chapters got a shipment of 40 of these puppies one week earlier and were nice enough to sell me a copy early. Boo Yeah! So obviously I dove right in the minute I got home.

Scarlet starts where Cinder left off. Okay, not precisely, but close enough. The story first introduces Scarlet, who is a character I actually really enjoyed reading about. Then, we jump right back to Cinder being in jail... escaping.

Scarlet, I found, turned out to be a very likable character, so I enjoyed the story switching perspectives between Cinder and Scarlet... Oh yeah, and Prince Kai of course!

This book was so full of awesomeness! Wolf was dreamy as ever, and even though you'll probably hate him at some point, you'll totally fall for him. And Kai, deary Prince Kai, you'll still love him. He may be sending people out to capture Cinder, but we know, oh yeah, we know he totally still loves Cinder.

There are also new faces introduced into the story you'll enjoy reading about. Wolf is one of them, and I'm so excited to read the falling books so I get me some more Wolf.

Unlike Cinder, this book I found to be more action packed which was so fun and mind boogling. My mind was going every which way from the awesomeness that is Scarlet. This book had me laughing and screaming. Happy and mad. God, I loved this book.

You know what else I really liked about this book? We got some more answers, which is always nice. So much was revealed in this novel, from what Scarlet has to do with Cinder, and what exactly happened to Cinder all those years ago. It was all so exciting!! The ending of the book also sets us up for the next book, so hurry up 2014!

Overall fans of Cinder will surely enjoy Scarlet! You've got your kick ass heroins, your swoon worthy fellows, action packed fun, and a sequel you won't want to miss!

Waiting on Wednesday (WOW #7)

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine. Be sure to check out their blog, follow a long, and comment down below so I can come check out your WOW! 

There are a few books I am SO excited for that will be released within a few months. One of these books are The Rising by Kelley Armstrong, which is the last installment in the Darkness Rising trilogy. Publication Date: April 9th 2013

Things are getting desperate for Maya and her friends. Hunted by the powerful St. Cloud Cabal and now the Nast Cabal as well, they’re quickly running out of places to hide. And with the whole world thinking they died in a helicopter crash, it’s not like they can just go to the authorities for help.
All they have is the name and number of someone who might be able to give them a few answers. Answers to why they’re so valuable, and why their supernatural powers are getting more and more out of control. Maya is unprepared for the truths that await her, but she’ll have to face them if she ever hopes to move on with her life. Because Maya can’t keep running forever.
With all the twists, thrills, and romance that have made Kelley Armstrong an international bestseller, plus the surprising return of some fan-favorite characters, The Rising will hold you under its spell long after the breathtaking end.

OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG!!! I am so excited for this book! And if the characters from the Darkest Power's trilogy make an appearance! OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG!!! That would be so freaking amazing!! 

Review: Dash and Lily's Book of Dares

Title: Dash and Lily's Book of Dares
Author: Rachel Cohn and David Levithan
Publication Date: October 11th 2011
Publisher: Ember
Pages: 260
Format: Paperback/Print

Although it is no longer "'tis the season", I still thoroughly enjoyed this book.

I do wish I had waited to read this book until Christmas, but all the great reviews I read about it screamed at me, thus, with my head held low, I shamefully (because I am quite embarrassed I have not read anything by David Levithan, which you should be, too, if you have not read any of his works because he is a brilliant man, my friend. It's like if you haven't read anything by John Green, you're clearly living in a cave then) sat on my couch and began to read the story of Dash and Lily and their crazy holiday adventure.

The synopsis is as it sounds. "Lily has left a red notebook full of challenges on a favorite bookstore shelf, waiting for just the right guy to come along and accept its dares." This is exactly what happens! You'll seriously laugh your bum bum off when Dash starts completing the clues and hints in Lily's book. Seriously, total rib breaker! *A-hum* *Cough* *A-hum* "The Joys of Gay Sex" .... nough said. 

Dash's character reminds me of Augustus Waters from John Green's book The Fault in Our Stars. And it's not because they act in the same way, or do the same things, although they do both enjoy books, it is in the way they speak and carry themselves that I see the resemblance. David and John's writing have similar tones, very mature in the sense, well, they use a lot of big words that make me have a dictionary by my side at all times when reading their work. This isn't a bad thing, and is actually one of the reason's why I've fallen for David's writing. I love the maturity of David and John's writing, but enough about John, he's had his spotlight already.

Lily's character is great as well. Really did enjoy her. I thought I wasn't going to like her at one point, in all honesty. She does something I don't particularly agree with or think cool, and so I thought for sure at that point I was going to hate her. But I didn't, and am glad. She cleaned up that mess quite nicely.

This was such a fun read! Perfect for Christmas time when the snow is falling down, a blanket of white covering the earth. Ah, don't you just love that kind of weather? The type you sit by the window, with a book in your hands, looking out every so often to take in the breath taking shimmer of white, fresh snow. God I love winter (though fall is my favorite season). 

Each chapter is told by either Dash or Lily. This is the third time I've read a book where we have POV's with both female and male characters and I really enjoy this format in books. You get to see the world in not only the girls perspective, but also the boy's, and when their both thinking of the same thing, you've got two things to think about and really ponder. I like books that make me have to ponder :)

If you've been thinking about reading this book, well, I'm going to tell you right now you should. Do not wait until Christmas. There is no sticker on the cover that says "Do not open until Christmas," so do not think you have to wait until Christmas to read this book. Read it, like NOW! It is SO good! You're going to have a blast with Dash and Lily, and their book of Dares. 

So read this book.

I dare you.

Sincerely, 

Review: Immortal Hearts

Title: Immortal Hearts (Vampire Kisses #9)
Author: Ellen Schreiber
Publication Date: May 15th 2012
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
Pages: 260
Format: Hardcover/Print


Is it really over? Is my beloved Vampire Kisses series really, truly, over? Alas, it is. Farewell my good friends Raven, Becky, Alexander, and even you Trevor, even you.

This is the longest series I have ever been with. How long you ask? Over six years! Yup, over six years. I discovered this series back when I was obsessed with vampire stories after having read the Twilight series (er, part of it anyways, not all the books were out yet). I am SO happy I decided to pick up that pocket sized, little witty eitty book all those years ago.

As you can see by the publication date, this book has been out for quite some time. I've been putting off reading it because I refused to say goodbye to the characters I have come to call friends (hey, it's been over six years). This last installment was not a disappointment and I'm so happy I FINALLY convinced myself to read it and face reality: things have to eventually end, even if certain people in said book get to live forever *humph*

I really be brutally honest and say I was kind of peeved that for the majority of the story Raven was out fixing everyone's problems, sans her own. I know this is the kind of character Raven is, and have always been, but it was still a pet peeve of mine (despite really loving her character). I was hoping Ellen would focus more on Raven and Alexander in the last installment instead of everyone else. Annoying, but I still enjoyed the book.

If you're expecting a certain ending, and have enjoyed this series through and through, I will come out and say, you are going to LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE (!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) the ending. It's one we've all been waiting for, obviously!

That all said, if you haven't yet picked up this series, please do. Don't let the vampires keep you away from reading the books. I know vampire's have run their course, and I know Twilight semi-ruined it for a lot of people, but PLEASE, with a cherry on top, give this a try. These vampires don't sparkle, they turn into bats, are allergic to garlic, can't see themselves in mirror, sleep in coffins, drink human blood out of fancy goblets, and can't go out in daylight. Totally awesome vampires!!!!