Review: Silence

Silence

Becca Fitzpatrick
Published by: Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers
Released: October 4, 2011

Magnus' Review of Hush, Hush:

http://www.yeahwelikemaplesyrupandbooks.blogspot.com/2012/06/review.html

My review of Hush, Hush:

http://www.yeahwelikemaplesyrupandbooks.blogspot.com/2012/07/review-hush-hush-calys-thoughts.html

My review of Crescendo:

http://www.yeahwelikemaplesyrupandbooks.blogspot.com/2012/07/review-crescendo.html

Description from Goodreads:



WHEN SILENCE IS ALL THAT'S LEFT, CAN THE TRUTH FINALLY BE HEARD?

Nora Grey can't remember the past five month of her life. After the initial shock of waking up in a cemetery and being told that she has been missing for weeks - with no one knowing where she was or who she was with - she tried to get her life back on track. Go to school, hang out with her best friend, Vee, and dodge mom's creepy new boyfriend.

But there is this voice in the back of her head, an idea that she can almost reach out and touch. Visions of angel wings and unearthly creatures that have nothing to do with the life she knows.

And this unshakable feeling that a part of her is missing.

Then Nora crosses paths with a sexy stranger, whom she feels a mesmerizing connection to. He seems to hold all the answers...and her heart. Every minute she spends with him grows more and more intense until she realizes she could be falling in love. Again.

I read this book in one day. Surprising really, because I was busy all day with our school's China visit. I just breezed right through it, not able to put it down. Even though it drove me absoultely crazy (Just ask my lil' sis-that-really-isn't-my-sis Jonnadore. Long story on nickname...I drove her crazy just talking about the book) it is probably one of my favorite stories that I have read so far this year. It was actually published last October and I am really kicking myself for waiting so long to actually read these. Last year, I remember picking this up and thinking: "Nope. Angels are not my thing." Now I feel really idiotic and stupid. Why didn't I read these sooner!?!?

There was one thing that annoyed the crap out of me. Nora lost her memories of everything that had occurred since the beginning of the books. Fallen Angels? Nope. Nephilim? Gone. Patch? WWWHHHYYY?? HOW CAN YOU FORGET PATCH?? I guess that's what bugged me the most...If you couldn't tell. It was a major case of dramatic irony. We know what happened. We know that those guys are bad. We know that Jev is actually Patch's real name (That's why it suddenly appears in Crescendo. The light bulb has gone off!). It just annoyed me because Nora did not know anything. I don't know how many times I mentally screamed at her and then actually screamed when I was in the safety of my private home.

Otherwise, the book was just amazing. It was one of those books where you just have to keep on reading until you reach the acknowledgements. When you are not reading it, you are thinking about it, wondering what the heck is going to happen in further pages. I was never bored with it, annoyed yes, but never bored. It flowed really nice and always kept me guessing despite the fact that Nora had amnesia.

Three books in and I still cannot connect to Nora. She does so many stupid things, it just pisses me off so much. I'm basically just reading this book because of Patch and Vee. I was surprised that even those two bugged me. Patch kept wanting to keep Nora in the dark, going by his actual name Jev for half the book. Vee lied about Patch and never bother to bring Nora fully up to speed, only telling her what she wanted to. If I went through something like Nora did, I would want my best friend to tell me the truth and all of it. I was glad when Nora got pissed off at them and yelled at them. They really deserved it. I just wish Nora wouldn't do stupid things. If Patch says to stay inside, she should really stay inside and not leave. Bad things would happen! But then again, what YA fictional character these days doesn't follow orders and does their own thing? I guess I should probably lay off her.

Now I just have to wait until October 23 for Finale (The last one. Creative name!) I really need to own my own copies of these books. I love them so much. If you like Angels, A plot that has some twists and turns, or are a fan of amnesia...Haha. Just kidding. Read these! Hush, Hush is the first. Crescendo, second. Silence, third. And lastly Finale in October. READ THESE!! They are perfect and amazing!

Review by Caly



Casting News: Luke and Dorothea

So Luke and Madame Dorothea have been cast. Now I'm just impaiently waiting for Alec. He's the only one I'm really excited for (Other than Magnus...They are my favorite couple in the books!)

Aiden Turner as Luke. This isn't how I pictured him in my mind...But if we give him some glasses and a nice, red flannel shirt, I think he can pull it off!

CCH Pounder as Madame Dorothea. I like her. She has that mysterious I-know-your-future type of look to her that I associate with Dorothea.

Getting more and more excited for the movie now!

Review: Crescendo

Crescendo

Becca Fitzpatrick
Published by: Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers
Released: October 19, 2010

My review on Hush, Hush:

http://www.yeahwelikemaplesyrupandbooks.blogspot.com/2012/07/review-hush-hush-calys-thoughts.html

Magnus' review on Hush, Hush:

http://www.yeahwelikemaplesyrupandbooks.blogspot.com/2012/06/review.html

Description from Goodreads:

Nora Grey's life is still far from perfect. Surviving an attempt on her life wasn't pleasant, but at least she got a guardian angel out of it. A mysterious, magnetic, gorgeous guardian angel. But, despite his role in her life, Patch has been acting anything but angelic. He's more elusive than ever (if that's possible) and what's worse, he seems to be spending time with Nora's arch-enemy, Marcie Millar.

Nora would have hardly noticed Scott Parnell, an old family friend who has moved back to town, if Patch hadn't been acting so distant. Even with Scott's totally infuriating attitude, Nora finds herself drawn to him - despite her lingering feeling that he's hiding something.

If that weren't enough, Nora is haunted by images of her murdered father, and comes to question whether her Nephilim bloodline has anything to do with his death. Desperate to figure out what happened, she puts herself in increasingly dangerous situations to get the answer. But maybe some things are better left buried, because the truth could destroy everything - and everyone - she trusts.

I could not put this book down. I am officially in love with these books. I cannot see why Magnus is not a huge fan, or anybody else for that matter. They are so enticing to read and just keep me entertained and anxious for the next page. I was not constantly bored with the story. I literally almost read it cover to cover.

I even found myself holding my breath and yelling at it. I think my mom is seriously debating whether or not to send me to a mental institution soon. I have become way to dedicated to yet another book series. Pretty soon, Mom is going to forbid me to buy any more books. I have become personally attached to the Hush, Hush books. I am seriously kicking myself in the butt for not picking these up sooner. Why did I have to go and put it off? Why did I never discover these books earlier in my life?

Anywho...Back to the story.

The pacing was perfect. I was never bored in this story. It kept me hooked and entertained the whole way through. I couldn't turn the page fast enough. It was that amazing.

I have only one complaint. Patch was not in the story enough. I freaking love this guy and he was absent and/or fighting with Nora for half of it. It drove me crazy! I kept wanting him to show up and take Nora into his arms. But instead, he didn't. Or Nora was to busy yelling at him. I had to force myself not to skim read ahead and make sure he was showing up. It was hard, but I managed to read without skimming. I am so proud of myself. That seriously took a lot of will power from moi. Instead, Scott shows up.

It really wasn't a true love triangle. Thank the almight lord. It was more of Nora just trying to get back at Patch, which also really bugged me. I guess that makes it two complaints then. She doubted Patch's love for her, became basically a jealous witch, and became very reckless and stupid. I had a harder time connecting to her in this one than I did with Hush, Hush. In the first one, I kind of understood why she did things the way she did. In this one, I felt myself thinking: "Why on God's green earth would you do that Nora? Are you really that stupid?" I really wished she would have just gotten over that stupid jealousy/unease of the guy and took him back. It would have made me much happier (and probably her too...)

The characters. Vee is perfect, per usual. She is still the bestest friend you could ever hope for. Patch wasn't in the novel nearly as much as I wanted him too, but I still love him all the same. If possible, he became even more sweeter and protective in this book than the first. Totally swooning like a fangirl right now. Then there's Scott. I have mixed feelings for the guy that Nora used. I can't decide if I like him or hate him. I'm going to let the third book help me with that. Nora annoyed me, but I still love her all the same. I felt the need to strangle her more in this one than the first. But it all plays out in the end I guess.

Then there's Rixon. I feel like crying everytime I think his name. *SPOILERS* I really wished he wasn't the bad guy. Then again...I'm glad it was rather him who was the bad guy than Patch. But still! It killed me when I learned he was the one who killed Nora's 'father' and then went and attempted to kill her. I really liked the guy! Now he is in Hell. Oh darn. *END OF SPOILERS*

The book surprised the crap out of me. I am usually able to predict 95% of what happens in a story. Oh he is the brother? Yup. He's the one behind the whole con. That guy is going to end up with her...no exceptions. Ah ha! Told you it was your bestie the whole time. Not the one who you absolutely hated. I blame my addiction to crime shows. This book gives you a really big twist. One that even I would have never guessed because I did not see it coming. I was like "Wow. Kuddos Becca Fitzpatrick for shocking me. You are totally amazing." If you have read the book, you probably know what twist I'm talking about. I'm not even going to put it down with my "Spoilers" warning. Nobody wants this ruined. Period.

It's a flipping Cliffhanger. *Sigh* WHY!?!?!?!?!?!?! AAAWWW!!!! I am tearing my hair out. Oh. Wait. Wait a second. What is this? Oh that's right...I HAVE BOOK THREE RIGHT NEXT TO ME!! YIPPEE!! hahahaha. You really need the third one by your side as soon as you finish this one. Don't go crazy while you wait for it. GET IT WHEN YOU READ THIS ONE. The ending will probably kill you. It's bugging me right now as I write this review. I need book three like I need air and water. That desperate? Yup.

So if you are a fan of Angels, sexy dark guys, a really big twist, TRY THIS BOOK. Buy the first one. Buy this one. GO PICK UP THE THIRD ONE. Wait until October 23, 2012 for the last one -_- Seriously, these books are really tantalizing and will have you reading cover to cover. They have quickly become one of my top ten favorites and I really want to go buy my own copies instead of borrowing from friends.

I just suddenly realize I have to wait until October 23 for the last book. *SOB* Why do authors do this to us?

Review by Calypso

And in other News...

So CW is redeveloping The Selection and it may be out next spring! They have already filmed a pilot, but the channel did not pick up the show for a full season. But it shows so much potential so it's getting another chance.

Well, I loved The Selection and when I heard it was on its way to become a show, I freaked a little.

(My review: http://www.yeahwelikemaplesyrupandbooks.blogspot.com/2012/06/review_27.html)

And when I heard it wasn't picked up, I became very sad.

But now, it's back to freakout mode!

~Caly

Random Thought: Mark of Athena

So this is how I basically feel about The Mark of Athena right now. Magnus most likely agrees. Is it October 2nd yet? I NEED TO KNOW EVERYTHING NOW!

Review: The Fault in Our Stars

The Fault in Our Stars

John Green
Published by: Dutton Books
Released: January 10, 2012

WARNING: This book will make you sob from the moment you pick it up until you drop it from heartache

Don't say I never warned you.

Description from Goodreads because every time I think of this book, I burst out crying:

Diagnosed with Stage IV thyroid cancer at 13, Hazel was prepared to die until, at 14, a medical miracle shrunk the tumours in her lungs... for now.

Two years post-miracle, sixteen-year-old Hazel is post-everything else, too; post-high school, post-friends and post-normalcy. And even though she could live for a long time (whatever that means), Hazel lives tethered to an oxygen tank, the tumours tenuously kept at bay with a constant chemical assault.

Enter Augustus Waters. A match made at cancer kid support group, Augustus is gorgeous, in remission, and shockingly to her, interested in Hazel. Being with Augustus is both an unexpected destination and a long-needed journey, pushing Hazel to re-examine how sickness and health, life and death, will define her and the legacy that everyone leaves behind.

Well...This book was amazing. Terribly sad. Pissed me off so so so much. But amazing.

I usually never like to read what I deem "Normal" books. Reading stuff without fantasy, mythology, dare I say it vampires, just bores me to death. I read this book mostly cover to cover. I picked it up from the library last night, took a little break called sleep, then immediately picked it up and finished. I ran over to my aunt's house and sobbed because I was sick of listening to my little sister laugh at me. THIS BOOK WILL MAKE YOU CRY. It will. I'm usually a tough nut to crack and get to cry. The only times I ever cried over a book was City of Glass and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. So yeah. And those happened in public places, dooming my fate as a bookworm. At least in this case, I only had to deal with my sister and aunt.

Let's talk about what I loved the most in this book: The Characters.

Hazel. I just wanted to jump in and give this poor girl a hug. I feel so so so so horrible for what that girl had to go through. Her life just sucks. She was constantly worrying about her lungs, her health, and worrying about Gus. The girl did not just stop worrying.

Some quotes that just killed me:

"Sleep fights cancer."

"'Keep your shit together,' I whispered to my lungs."

Let's move on to Gus before I burst out crying again.

Gus. Oh. My. Lordy. That guy is so sweet, so amazing, so wonderful. I love how his parent's give him encouragements, little things with happy sayings placed all over the house. He is in love with Hazel despite the fact that they know she won't make it long. *Minor Spoiler* He even gives up his Wish to go to Amsterdam with Hazel in order to meet the author who has a big influence in their life. *End of Minor Spoiler* Then I read some more of the book. *Some MAJOR SPOILERS AHEAD* His cancer comes back. I died. I like literally flung the book across the room. His life just became defeated. He lost his spark, I guess I could call it. He was fighting a losing battle and he knew it and I just continued to sob and sob and sob. Then he died. He died. WHAT THE FLIP IS THIS?? Excuse me as I go scream my head off outside.

I will let Cass from Supernatural describe what I felt:

And I still feel like that. I am a big sucker for happy endings. THIS DOESN'T COUNT AS HAPPY! *End of Spoilers*

Okay. Okay. Okay. Let's move on to the much more happy aspect of the story: Their Relationship.

Okay. That's their word. They know everything will be okay if they just use okay.

When they first kissed, I was cheering along with all of the adults. It made me happy that they were happy. Then the book just becomes all depressing afterwards. And I sob some more.

The ending of the book killed me, ripped right into my chest and stomped on my heart. It left you sort of hopeful, but a wee bit hanging. It's not a hard core conclusion. It is up to the reader to believe what ever they want to.

Me? Well, personally, *SPOILERS* I would have Hazel die, then head up to heaven where she meets Gus again and is reunited, and plays a good ol' game of basketball in the sky. That would make me very happy as long as they are together. *END OF SPOILERS*

So would I recommend this? Only if you are in need of a major tear jerker. I loved this book, it was just more sad than I predicted. Which is fairly shocking, considering it's a book about a kid with cancer. This is my first book I read that was about cancer because I usually try to stray away from them. They are really depressing. This one was no exception. It had its moments of humor which I found funny. But it really is a tragedy.

If you are looking for a happy story, don't go for this one. If you are looking for a heart felt story of star-crossed Cancer victims, then yes pick it up. You won't regret it. But also break out the tissues. You will need them.

Review by Caly



Casting News: JOHANNA MASON

So Johanna Mason from The Hunger Games Trilogy has finally been cast. I feel bad for not following this one as much as City of Bones, but then again, I'm not uber excited for this one as much as the other. Catching Fire was probably my favorite book out of the whole trilogy. It certainly was the one I read the quickest.

Jena Malone will be playing Johanna. Her name sounds so familiar, but I can't recall where I have heard of her before. She seems like she's a good fit for Johanna. I honestly haven't read the books in over a year, but I have confidence that she will be amazing.

I cannot wait to see Catching Fire. I know it's going to be as good as The Hunger Games was. I'm excited to see Finnick. He was my favorite character throughout the whole trilogy. Then he died and left my heart shattered.

~Caly

Review: Goddess Interrupted

Goddess Interrupted

Aimée Carter
Published by: Harlequin Teen
Released: March 27, 2012

*Don't read if you haven't read The Goddess Test*

Description from back of book:

KATE WINTERS has won IMMORTALITY

But if she wants a LIFE with Henry in THE UNDERWORLD, she'll have to FIGHT for it.

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

The king of the Titans.

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



Henry's first wife, Persephone.

I'm just going to start out and say it. I judged the first book way to harshly. And I am so so so so so sorry. I was being way too picky and after reading this book, I realized that I have become emotionally invested in these characters and the books have quickly risen to my top 10 favorites. Now I just feel so horrible.

And look at the cover. Can I just say GORGEOUS? It is one of the prettiest covers I own.

I finally understand the creativity of Kate's last name. Winters. Ah ha! She's like Persephone and has to stay with Henry during the winter. I'm surprised I didn't get this in the first book. I like it! Now I feel stupid for totally over looking that.

Like all books, there was some parts that bugged me in this one, not as many as in the first one, but some.

What the hell happened in Greece? I don't own a Kindle or Nook so I never read the ebook and I kept finding myself questioning it. The only thing you got was a brief reference and vague hints. I wished there was a little more so I can get an understanding of what really happened. Once I get my Nook for Christmas, I know I will buy it so I can finally find out.

I am still confused by the whole name switch thing. It didn't annoy me as much as it did in the first book, but I'm having a hard time connecting the gods I know to these characters. Ava isn't Aphrodite in my mind. She's Ava, a totally different being. It still bugs me, but I understand the whole reason for the name switch. They take on the names common from each empire. It explains how the same beings became the Roman gods. I like that idea. I just wish they had better names than stuff like Henry. James. Walter. I'm a big fan on exotic names so I really should judge Aimée's choice on names. Plain, boring names can be okay too.

Henry seemed like he was the one in charge. Not Walter who is supposed to be Zeus. I was assuming since he is Hades, he should be the one who was kicked out of Olympus, the one that nobody really cares about. The gods actually seem like a big happy family here, not really bickering and messy. I love how Henry was able to hold some power in his family because technically, he is the eldest one, not Zeus/Walter. Oh my gods. I am sounding like my aunt who love Hades. *Face slap*

Kate needs to realize that Henry actually does care for her. Throughout the whole story, she kept doubting his love for her. The gods had to keep telling her that he does care for her and he has a hard way of showing it. But she never really listened to them and based it on what she observed. A few times in the book, I wanted to yell "Umm...Hello? Kate? You have known him for a year. His family has known him for eons. Trust them!" Nope. She basically just ignored them. And now I can't believe I am semi sticking up for Henry. Good thing I can't see him as Hades in my mind because I can't stand Hades. At all.

Certain characters I wanted to strangle. Persephone is the most annoying, selfish, and possibly slightly crazy character out there. My gods, she annoyed the hell out of me. I wish she would go die again in Tartarus. I hated that Kate lived in her shadow. She was right about being a "hand-me-down". Cronus is just a creeper. There is no getting around that. He's plain old creepy. A lot of the gods are really pessimistic. They wanted to hang around and wait for their impending doom. Seriously? THEY ARE THE GREEK GODS! They aren't supposed to sit around and wait. They are supposed to jump right into action. I'm not talking about the original six (Hades, Zeus, Poseidon, Hestia, Hera, Demeter) I mean the 'second generation' (Ares, Athena, Apollo, Artemis, Dionysus, Hephaestus). Only Ava and James would help Kate do anything productive. The rest were basically being cowards.

I am done complaining now. Let's move on to what I liked about the story.

Cronus' description is so so so cool. Even though I thought he was a creeper, he is a really cool ghostly fog. I loved that! He could just sweep in as this misty fog, cause a little havoc, and disappear. So much cooler than having a simple body.

More of actual Greek Myths were showing up into the story. We got more of the original myths in this one and I loved it. You got more of the connections between each god and Cronus shows back up. Aimée still added her little twists, but the original was still present.

I felt so bad for Calliope. I know she's supposed to be the bad guy, but I really feel so sorry for her. I blame my 8th grade paper I had to write about Hera. Ever since then, I have had a weak spot for the jealous goddess in my heart. She's the only one I actually connect to the goddess. Nobody likes her in this story. She has to run off to daddy because nobody trusts her. Granted, she tried to kill Kate a bunch of times and she did kill 11 other girls before her, but still, I feel like I should give her a hug. She has every right to be jealous. She watched the man she loved, Zeus/Walter, cheat on her and father a bunch of other children. I would be jealous and a little pissy if I was her too.

I have a lot of respect for Ingrid. She could have completely hated Kate because she failed the tests. Instead, she treated her as a friend. She could have been jealous of her love of Henry like Calliope, but she actually is happy for the both of them. If I was in her position, I would probably be a little resentful and jealous. I probably would have secretly hated Kate, but been nice to her in front of her face. Does this mean that I am a horrible person? Dear gods...

I missed Henry when he was gone. There. I said it and I'll say it again. I MISSED HENRY. I'm actually liking the guy even though he's Hades. *Starts rocking in fetal position* What has the world turned into? In my mind, I seperated the 2 characters. Henry is Henry. He's not Hades. I refuse to admit that. I cannot like Hades. I'm stubborn like that. But, Henry was starting to gain some of Hades' detached, broody, emotionless traits. I know in the first one I was complaining how Henry wasn't like Hades, but here, I really don't want him to be like Hades. I know, I cannot make up my mind. I really wanted him to sweep Kate off of her feet and to profess his undying love. He didn't really. Humph. That's what I get for wishing beforehand that he was more like Hades.

And as I am writing this review, I have One Direction's song, Gotta be You playing. This song sounds a lot like Kate and Henry's relationship. It may just be me who thinks it. I am crazy that way...Hmmmm. (Yes, I am very random sometimes....)

Please Fictional Gods above, LEAVE HENRY AND KATE ALONE. Let them be happy for once. Let them have a happily ever after. That's all I'm begging you for.

Now comes time for me to complain about the ending.

My one and only thought: "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

My gods, I did not see that coming and the cliffhanger is KILLING ME. I am so glad I waited to read these books later than sooner. I only have to wait a week for the last one. And yeah, I'm going to be reading the last one. This one ended with such a cliffhanger, it left me crying. Crying. *Sniffle* I want everybody to be happy and okay.

So please go out and buy these books! Don't give up after the first one like I almost did. (Thank you Alyss for making me buy this! You deserve a big hug). You will become emotionally attached to the characters after reading this one. I feel so bad for putting so much hate on the first one. I regret it deeply. These books are really really good. I need the last one like now. The week-long wait is going to kill me. Maybe you should wait and buy all 3 as a bundle. That way, you aren't sitting here like a troll sitting in the fetal position as the week slowly creeps by.

Review by Calypso

*UPDATE*

I was assuming that the final book came out next week, The Goddess Legacy. Actually, it's a collection of short stories. And the last one doesn't come up until next April. Now I'm extremely sad
:(

Review: Hush, Hush (Caly's thoughts)

Hush, Hush

Becca Fitzpatrick
Published by: Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers
Released: October 13, 2009



A SACRED OATH
A FALLEN ANGEL
A FORBIDDEN LOVE

Romance was not part of Nora Grey's the plan. She's never been particularly attracted to the boys at her school, no matter how hard her best friend, Vee, pushes them at her. Not until Patch comes along. With his easy smile and eyes that seem to see inside her, Patch draws Nora to him against her better judgment.

But after a series of terrifying encounters, Nora's not sure whom to trust. Patch seems to be everywhere she is and seems to know more about her than her closest friends. She can't decide whether she should fall into his arms or run and hide. And when she tries to seek some answers, she finds herself near a truth that is way more unsettling than anything Patch makes her feel.

For she is right in the middle of an ancient battle between the immortal and those that have fallen - and, when it comes to choosing sides, the wrong choice will cost Nora her life.

Yes. I did copy and paste from Goodreads. I'm lazy okay?

So I finally got my hands on this from Magnus. While she wasn't overly thrilled with the story, I loved it. I want to read more. They kept me entertained that much.

I was confused by the parts where Nora sees something, then thinks its an illusion. They were kind of confusing and I had to convince myself that they weren't illusions. But then they were. Then they weren't. And...well...you get the point. They were finally explained later and it all clicked into place. I liked how it messed with my mind. I think an author is brilliant if they can play mind games with their readers. Magnus wasn't okay with that and I can kind of see where she is coming from.

And Patch. I'm confused why Mags didn't really like him. I LOVE HIM! He is all bad boyish, full of secrets, dark, mysterious. I love that with fictional characters. Sure, I wasn't thrilled that he kept Nora in the dark most of the time, but it was for a good reason. *SPOILERS* I mean, the guy wanted to kill her at first in order to become human. Frankly, I would keep it a secret too. I can imagine it now: "Hey babe. You're hot and all, but I really want to be human. Don't mind me stabbing this knife in your heart." Yeah. That would go over pretty well. *END SPOILERS* And then he has his secret sweet side that I love so so so much. Patch has quickly become one of my favorite fictional guys.

The characters are great. I love Patch and Vee. Vee is just the perfect best friend a girl could ever want. She lets Nora use her car whenever, goes along with Nora's rediculous plans, and is even willing to *SPOILERS* dress up as Nora when the crazy stalker lady follows them bra shopping and gets attacked. All for her best friend. *END SPOILERS* The only character that bugged me was Elliot. I really wished he was the bad guy in the end. I just hated the guy. He pretended to be all sweet and nice at first, then bam! crazy and pyscho. I expected him to break into her house and reinact the whole "Shower Scene" from Pyscho. (And I was kind of disappointed when it never happened. Oh well...) Nora drove me crazy a couple of times. During certain points in the novel, I wanted to reach in and strangle her neck. But I still love her! I had a hard time picturing her though. I have a friend with the same name, but Nora has the pysical description of me. So I had this weird hybrid of my friend Nora and myself, which was really odd. I tried drawing it but nothing really came. I can usually see characters very clearly in my mind or sometimes picture the actor portraying them. Nora is probably the only one without a picture in my mind.

The pacing was excellent. There was never a dull moment in the story. I found myself just continuing to read and pretty much ignoring everybody around me. I NEED THE REST OF THEM.

So I HIGHLY recomend this book. It was so enticing to read. I picked it up one night and next thing I knew, I was 200 pages in and it was past midnight. If you are a huge fan of Angels, try these books. The story won't leave you bored, and even though it's slightly confusing, it's not a waste of time.

Now I just need to get my hands on the rest of them :)

Review by Calypso





Casting News: MAGNUS BANE-JOCELYN FRAY-HODGE

MAGNUS HAS BEEN CAST!! And Jocelyn/Hodge too. BUT OMG MAGNUS HAS BEEN CAST!!!

So right now I am pretty much freaking out because I am in love with Magnus Bane. He's amazing and awesome and SO SO SO hilarious. The only fictional character I love more is Will Herondale.

Okay. Stalling. HERE HE IS!!

Godfrey Gao is now Magnus and he looks PERFECTO! Apparently, he's also a supermodel. Cassandra Clare thinks he is perfect, and frankly, I DO TOO! I have been reading some comments based on the casting, and some people think he is too old. Well...Technically, Magnus is over 300 years old...So why are people complaining? Just a thought.

Lena Headey has been cast as Jocelyn. And before anybody flips out over the hair color like they did with Annabeth's, she is probably going to dye her hair for the movie. DON'T. FREAK. OUT. Please. I think she will be great. She plays on GAME OF THRONES and look, she already has some tatoos. Awesome!

Jared Harris as Hodge. Add a raven and a pair of glasses, and this is EXACTLY how I pictured the guy. So yeah, I think he is PERFECT!

So I went to my job shadowing today basically going all fangirl as I was free. Good thing the girl training me is a huge bookworm also!

I AM SO FREAKING EXCITED FOR THIS MOVIE IT MAKES ME WANT TO JUMP INTO THE TARDIS AND GO WATCH IT RIGHT NOW!







Review: Wings Series

Wings Series #1-3

Aprilynne Pike
Published by: HarperTeen
Released:
Book One: May 5, 2009
Book Two: May 4, 2010
Book Three: May 3, 2011

(I will be doing a future review on the last book, Destined, as soon as I pick it up at B&N)



Book Descriptions from Goodreads

(Because I tend to spoil things...)

(Also don't read descriptions for the 2nd and 3rd book if you are avoiding any spoilers)

Wings

Laurel was mesmerized, staring at the pale things with wide eyes. They were terrifyingly beautiful - too beautiful for words.

Laurel turned to the mirror again, her eyes on the hovering petals that floated beside her head. They looked almost like wings.

In this extraordinary tale of magic and intrigue, romance and danger, everything you thought you knew about faeries will be changed forever.

Well that was a lousy description. Basically, Laurel discovers that she is a faery after a flower blooms on her back in the fall. With the help of her new friend David, and her old faery friend Tamani (Who is amazing by the way), she learns of her role that she had played in the faery world.

I don't think that was too spoiltry. 

Spells

"I can't just storm in and proclaim my intentions. I can't 'steal' you away. I just have to wait and hope that, someday, you'll ask," Tamani said.

"And if I don't?" Laurel said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Then I guess I'll be waiting forever."


Although Laurel has come to accept her true identity as a faerie, she refuses to turn her back on her human life - and especially her boyfriend, David - to return to the faerie world.

But when she is summoned to Avalon, Laurel's feelings for the charismatic faerie sentry Tamani are undeniable. She is forced to make a choice - a choice that could break her heart.

Illusions

"I don't do patrols, I don't go hunting, I just stick close to you. You live your life. I'll keep you safe," Tamani said, sweeping a lock of hair from her face. "Or die trying."


Laurel hasn't seen Tamani since she begged him to let her go last year. Though her heart still aches, Laurel is confident that David was the right choice.

But just as life is returning to normal, Laurel discovers that a hidden enemy lies in wait. Once again, Laurel must turn to Tamani to protect and guide her, for the danger that now threatens Avalon is one that no faerie thought would ever be possible. And for the first time, Laurel cannot be sure that her side will prevail.

Hmmmm...Shall I start with Wings?

I read Wings a while back when HarperTeen was offering it for free online because of Destined being released the next week. I decided to read it because why not? I was expecting something silly and lighthearted, just another book about faeries. I was surprised at how much I actually enjoyed it. I was glued to my laptop, making Mom super annoyed because I was supposed to meet up with my friends later that night. I ditched them. Laurel's story had me completely hooked. It holds nothing over Holly Black's Tithe and Melissa Marr's Wicked Lovely. The tone/mood in this book was so much different than all of the other faery books I have read. I like the other two, it's just whenever I was reading them, I felt like there was a veil of darkness surrounding me, if that makes any sense. This one was more light and different and I liked that. The faeries are plants, blooming the season they were sprouted (??) in. The enemies are mostly trolls, not evil, demented fey (Well...up until book 3 anyway). Aprilynne mixed together every faery story out there and placed it in one kingdom called Avalon. She even added in Camelot and King Arthur. I loved this book and quickly bought Spells on B&N the next day.

Spells kind of fell under that "Second Book Curse" that my favorite Youtube blogger, CassJayTuck, calls it (You should totally check her out! She's amazing). It introduced a love triangle. You could see it blooming in the first book, but if you had read any of my other reviews, you know I can't stand love triangles. Quoting Ron Weasley: "BLOODY HELL". Love triangles irk me and this one was the same way. I loved the story, don't get me wrong, it's just the love triangle was on the back of my mind the whole time, screaming Tamani. Tamani. Tamani. -_- *SPOILER EVEN THOUGH IT'S NOT VERY MAJOR* And she didn't even choosed him. *END OF NOT VERY MAJOR SPOILER* This was probably the book that I realized I could not stand David at all. It was probably because I was not-so-secretly rooting for Tam the whole time and I found David very annoying. I had this book done in about 2 days. The ending left me crying "NOOOOOO! I HAVE NO MONEY!! WHY MUST YOU DO THIS TO ME APRILYNNE PIKE???" And I had to wait about 2 months before I could get my hands on Illusions.

So I finally got my hands on Illusions while I was in South Carolina and didn't actually read it until last week. I think I was worried that Laurel would flat out ignore Tamani and not end up with him. I was wrong *Happy Dance* That pesky love triangle was made into a square with another piece added: Yuki. *SPOILERS TO COME THAT MADE ME A VERY HAPPY GIRL* And then Laurel broke up with David. YAY! He really annoyed me in this book, playing the jealous, human boyfriend. I think Laurel had every right to break up with him. Then she got jealous of Tamani having to basically seduce Yuki for information (She was in cahoots with Klea, mysterious troll hunter turned evil faery). And then Chelsea dropped that major bomb on Laurel that she still liked David. Whoa. This was turning into a love spider web. And Laurel ended up with neither of them in the end. Humph. (I'm hoping she ends up with Tamani in the end. I will be a very unhappy girl if she doesn't. Or she could pull this whole "I am secrectly in love with Aaron. Sorry boys, I'm going to be with him for the rest of my exsistance." I would be happy with that random relationship too. As long as she stays away from David. I have a feeling I'm not going to be pleased with the ending of Destined.) *END OF SPOILERS*

This book took me a while to read because about halfway through, I discovered the wonders of Doctor Who and gave up reading anything until I finished the first season at least. But I was so glad that I finished it! I was going to wait to read Destined until it came out in paperback, but the ending was like "Oh. My. Goodness. I need the last one now." It threw me a curveball. Now I'm torn between waiting until the paperback comes out or buying it hardcover. AAWW! I don't know what to do!

So if you are looking for a faery tale that isn't very dark like Tithe and Wicked Lovely and is very different from them, pick up the Wings books. You won't regret it and you will most likely fall head over heals for Tamani like I did (Unless you are Magnus, who almost always likes the other guy better than the one I like and then we fight over who's better.) Head out to your local bookstore and pick up these books! For once I start a series that has all of them out!

Review by Calypso



Review: Shadows

Shadows

(Lux Novel 0.5)

Jennifer L. Armentrout
Published as ebook by: Entangled Publishing
Released: February 21, 2012

So Shadows takes place before the events in the first book, Obsidian. It's the story on how Dawson and Bethany come to disappear before Katy moves to West Virginia. So Bethany Williams moves to the middle of nowhere West Virginia in order to stay close to her uncle who is dying of cancer. She never expected to meet Dawson Black, or his jerk of a twin, Daemon, and loveable sister, Dee. As Bethany and Dawson grow close together, the truth of what Dawson and his siblings truly are become exposed: Aliens.

I loved Obsidian. Then again, I love anything Jennifer Armentrout writes. She writes in a way that makes it sound like we are not listening to some 30 year woman telling the story through a teenager. She actually sounds like a teen. YAY! If you haven't picked up any of her books, DO IT. You will not regret it, trust me.

I really have no complaints for this book except for the fact that it's only available as an ebook. I was lucky that my bestie Alyss let me borrow her Kindle for the afternoon so I could read it (THANKS ALYSS!!) and I loved it. I didn't think that I would love a character in this series more than Daemon. But wow. Dawson is just so much better and definitely sweeter. Too bad he disappeared -_-

I like how we were able to find out a little more details on the Luxen/Atrum aliens. In Obsidian, it's limited to what Katy knows and so she only knows what Daemon and Dee tell her. Here, even though it's third person, you still learn more because it follows Dawson and Daemon along with Bethany. It was nice to get a more deeper understanding of my favorite aliens out there.

I could tell that Armentrout had fun writing this. She had Daemon say things that totally went against his nature in the first book. Now, after reading this, I can understand Daemon's hatred towards Katy in Obsidian because he lost his younger brother due to Bethany knowing too much.

So reading this was like a stab in the heart because you know that Bethany and Dawson are going to disappear in the end. It's similar to the feeling of reading Stephenie Meyer's Eclipse then going on to read The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner and knowing that Bree dies in the end. I hate it when authors do that to me. Rip out my heart why don't ya? But, the way Armentrout ended it, made me question what really did happen to my beloved new Lux characters and with the description of Onyx (Lux Novel 2) it makes me wonder. I have some new theories popping up and I am praying that they are right!

So if you are interested in reading the Lux Novels, I recommend reading Obsidian first, because you get a good explanation for everything. But then again, you could read Shadows and be completely fine because there is no major spoilers except for the fact that they are aliens...But if you read the description, you would already know that. Anyway, if you are a sucker for a hot guy on the cover (I mean, LOOK AT THAT GUY! Gorgeous) or are in love with aliens, read the Lux Novels. They are amazing and you don't have to wait a year for the next book. Only 6 months. Which is WAY better in my book ;)

Review by Calypso

Casting News: SEA OF MONSTERS UPDATE

So I haven't been following the casting news for THE SEA OF MONSTERS as much as I have with CITY OF BONES because the first movie is already out. I know a lot of people hated THE LIGHTNING THIEF, but I loved it. You can't go into the movie thinking you are going to see an exact copy of the book. I was totally okay with the changes that was made to the movie and looked past them all. I like Alexandra Daddario as Annabeth. Brandon T. Jackson as Grover was downright hilarious. That guy is great! And I love Logan Lerman as an actor. Period. So when I found out he was Percy, I accepted it through and through. The movie is coming out in March and I am REALLY EXCITED!

So Cast Update? I'm trying to get photos from them on set. (And thanks to imdb for keeping it updated!) **Indicates ON SET PHOTOS

Nathan Fillion as Hermes.

Rumored that Mark Hamill as Tantalus

Stanley Tucci as Dionysus (Caesar Flickerman from THE HUNGER GAMES!!)**

Missi Pyle, Mary Birdsong, Yvette Nicole Brown (Helen from DRAKE AND JOSH!!)  as the Grey Sisters

Apparently Pierce Brosnan has been replaced as Chiron. Anthony Head is the new one. I can't picture it. He will always be Buffy's watcher in my mind!

Robert Maillet as Polyphemus/Laistrygonian (Canadians. Like the reference to the book? haha.) He's also in CITY OF BONES. AWESOME!!!!

Zoe Aggeliki as Silena Beauregard. Didn't realize that she was in SEA OF MONSTERS. But hey, not complaining. At least she's there!

Leven Rambin (Glimmer, THE HUNGER GAMES) as Clarisse La Rue. GUESS WHAT GUYS?? She's in the movie. And calm down. She dyed her hair!**

Douglas Smith as Tyson. And quick question: Why does he have 2 eyes?? Hahahaha. Was that lame or what??**

Grey Damon as Chris Rodriguez (SECRET CIRCLE, NINE LIVES OF CHLOE KING)**

Paloma Kwiatkowski as Thalia Grace. Apparently, she nailed her first time audition and I can see Thalia in her. And that is one heck of a last name!

Derek Mears as Cyclopes? Okay. Sure. Why not. Looks scary.

Daniel Cudmore as Manicore? Is the manicore even in SEA OF MONSTERS?? Okay. I'm totally okay with this. Calm down. Apparently, he's also in BREAKING DAWN?

Alisha Newton as Young Annabeth. Guess there is going to be a flashback!! YAY YAY YAY!! And how adorable is this kid?

Aleks Paunovic as another Cyclopes. Didn't realize there was so many cyclopes in the story other than Tyson. But, open mind, Caly, OPEN MIND!

Christopher Redman as Reardon. Who the heck is Reardon? My Ultimate Guide has no such name in it!

Katelyn Mager as Young Thalia. Another adorable kid. Even though, I think the actresses should switch. She looks more like an Annabeth, and the other a Thalia. But that is just a thought!

Sara Kenley as Selina. Wait a second...I'm confuse now. Imdb, something is wrong here. It's SILENA. Not SELINA. Unless there is 2 in the movie? Huh?

Bjorn Yearwood as Young Grover. He looks so much like Brandon T. Jackson in this picture. It is so creepy. I have a feeling this flashback is a way to make up to the fans that they started with older actors/actresses in the first place...Or is it just me?

Samuel Braun as Young Luke. OMG! He is sooo cute!

And some other actors for the roles that you can look up on Imdb yourself because I feel like they aren't really major:

Ichneutae (What/Who is that? Again, my Ultimate Guide fails me)

Ganymede (Shouldn't he be in the 4th one?)

Barista (Again, who/what is that??)

Customer (I should have tried out for this role!)

Lydian Drakon (Shouldn't this appear later?)

Camping Girl (I would have been perfect for this role)

Tereus (I need to get an actual Greek Mythology textbook now...)

Another Barista (Am I missing something obvious here? Never heard of that before)

An Uncredited Half Blood Demigod Teen (Sorry for being uncredited. I will credit you and cheer when you appear in the movie!)

*UPDATE*

Now I feel really stupid at the fact I never realized that a barista is like a coffee server person. To think I call myself a senior in high school and never heard of that term before!

*END UPDATE*
And soooooo...Here are some pics of Logan Lerman, Alexandra Daddario, and Brandon T. Jackson from the set. Now I'm really excited for the movie!!

YOU CAN RELAX NOW. HER HAIR IS LIGHTER. Gods, why does hair color matter people??

Oooohhh. The gang with Clarisse. Glad she made it into the movie!

Uh oh. What's going on?

I love this guy as Tyson!

I'm so glad they lighten her hair. If I had to hear anybody else complain about her after this movie, I would seriously scream.

Oooohhhh. Really excited now!

 LOGAN! Fangirling right now!

Grover in trouble still? Uh oh. Is that Chris? IT IS! Oh my gods. Who is the other guy?


Okay. Now I am uber excited for this movie! March is going to be an AMAZING month. And people, it sounds like it's going to semi follow the book more than the first one did. So don't be stuborn and refuse to see it. That's stupid. Go see the movie and don't critic it so harshly.