Fruits Basket by Natsuki Takaya

A family with an ancient curse...

And the girl who will change their lives forever...

Tohru Honda was an orphan with no place to go until the mysterious Sohma family offered her a place to call home. Now her ordinary high school life is turned upside down as she's introduced to the Sohma's world of magical curses and family secrets.

My thoughts

Note: This is a review of the whole series, but it won't include any spoilers.

There are 23 books in this series and I can honestly say that I enjoyed and loved all of them! This was simply an amazing series and I had a hard time putting the books down, which meant I read all of them in a just few days.

The story follows Tohru who has recently lost her mother, and since her father died when she was small she had to go live with her grandfather. When her grandfather announces that he wants to renovate the house, Tohru has to find another place to live for a while. Not wanting to bother anybody, she ends up living in a tent in the woods. She soon meets to members of the Sohma family and when her tent is ruined in a landslide, they offer her a home in exchange for her being sort of a housekeeper for them. But all is not what it seems with the Sohmas and she soon learns that there's an ancient curse on the family and she might be their only hope.

It sounds like a story we've all read before, but I really think it wasn't. Takaya has created an impressive and magical story that had an unexpected depth to it, and with characters so rich and lively. The first five or so books are very lighthearted, but later on it turns much darker and get a more serious feel to it. But even in the midst of this, there always seems to be a little to smile or laugh at.
I really was surprised by the depth of it, and how relatable the story was. Sometimes I just had to stop and think about the thinks spoken and the truth behind the words. Like how we shouldn't constantly agonize about the unknown future, but just take a step at a time, and eventually everything is solved by itself. 

I loved, loved all the characters in the series. There's a huge cast of characters, but I was never once confused by who was who, and what their story was or anything the like. I was wondering who was my favorite when I realized that I simply just love them all equally. They all have their own stories and struggles and we get to see them all, so that we can truly understand every one of them. They made me laugh and cry, made me happy and worry, and generally just wanting to hug them all. 

The main character Tohru has to be one of the most loveable main characters in any story. I know some people think she is a bit of a Mary Sue, and maybe she is, but I loved her and her ability to always smile and always be there for other people. She never, ever complains, although she has had a really tough time in life and has to face a lot with the Sohmas. 

Bottom line, this is one of the best series I've ever had the pleasure of reading and I sense a lot of re-reads in the future. I highly recommend this series, as well as the anime based on it. It has everything you could want in a story and much more. 

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

The Dream Thieves by Maggie Stiefvater

Now that the ley lines around Cabeswater have been woken, nothing for Ronan, Gansey, Blue, and Adam will be the same. Ronan, for one, is falling more and more deeply into his dreams, and his dreams are intruding more and more into waking life. Meanwhile, some very sinister people are looking for some of the same pieces of the Cabeswater puzzle that Gansey is after...

My thoughts

I was so happy that I got The Dream Thieves right after I finished reading The Raven Boys, as the latter ended on a bit of a cliff-hanger. The very last sentence in The Raven Boys really intrigued me and I hoped we'd get to know Ronan better, and I sure wasn't disappointed. The Dream Thieves was very much Ronan's book, and centered around his story and abilities, while still being linked to the overall story and mystery. 

I thought it was a very interesting and original concept that Ronan could pull things out of dreams. Ronan is a very complex character and I loved being able to dive into his story and try to figure him out. It's clear in the beginning of the book that Ronan has a lot of secrets, but what are they, and what do they mean? As his secrets were slowly uncovered so is Ronan, and despite all his rough edges - or maybe because of them - I grew to love him even more.

Some of the characters, mostly Blue and Gansey, took a backseat in this book, and I have to admit that I kind of missed them, cuz I love those two. There wasn't that much focus on their search for Glendower either, though it was still present in the story. Adam, however, had a larger role, as he was dealing with the aftermath of what happened that fateful night in The Raven Boys. He had a great character development, it is obvious that his sacrifice has changed him a lot, but also his move from his parents house has made a impact on him. 

There was a lot happening throughout the book, and sometimes I kind of wondered what some of it had to do with anything. Really, I was a bit confused sometimes. I still don't know what one of the characters introduced in this had to with the story and why did we had to have so many POVs from him? Maybe a re-read will enlighten me since Maggie Stiefvater hides central plots in plain sight and I'm not always too quick to catch on.

There were some very heartwrenching moments in this book, and while they were sad, they were also beautifully written. It's not often that you get your heart ripped in such a nice way. These moments gave the story a bittersweet edge and hinted at what is always looming over the story.

Of course this one ended on a cliff-hanger too. Grrr. And the next book won't come out until fall next year. I mean what the h***. The third book is now one of my most anticipated books for next year, and I can.not.wait to read it!

If you haven't read The Dream Thieves or started this series yet, I strongly urge you to do so. It is so incredible and has already taken a place on my favorite shelf. 

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater

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“There are only two reasons a non-seer would see a spirit on St. Mark’s Eve,” Neeve said. “Either you’re his true love . . . or you killed him.”

It is freezing in the churchyard, even before the dead arrive.

Every year, Blue Sargent stands next to her clairvoyant mother as the soon-to-be dead walk past. Blue herself never sees them—not until this year, when a boy emerges from the dark and speaks directly to her.

His name is Gansey, and Blue soon discovers that he is a rich student at Aglionby, the local private school. Blue has a policy of staying away from Aglionby boys. Known as Raven Boys, they can only mean trouble.

But Blue is drawn to Gansey, in a way she can’t entirely explain. He has it all—family money, good looks, devoted friends—but he’s looking for much more than that. He is on a quest that has encompassed three other Raven Boys: Adam, the scholarship student who resents all the privilege around him; Ronan, the fierce soul who ranges from anger to despair; and Noah, the taciturn watcher of the four, who notices many things but says very little.

For as long as she can remember, Blue has been warned that she will cause her true love to die. She never thought this would be a problem. But now, as her life becomes caught up in the strange and sinister world of the Raven Boys, she’s not so sure anymore.

My thoughts

Going into this I had no idea what The Raven Boys was about, and I think that’s the best kind of approach to a book. You have no expectations and nothing to spoil the events for you. So when I started this book I was both surprised and excited to have found a book combining all the things I love; a story of magic, ancient legends, family, love and friendship set in modern day. I felt like getting an unexpected gift you unknowingly really, really wanted.

Maggie Stiefvater is an exceptional writer, and she kind of make magic come alive before you through her words. The Raven Boys is told in third person and it is used to get a lot of different perspectives. This usually bothers me a lot, but not in this one. Instead, I loved getting different characters' perspective and the reasons behind their actions, and I think Maggie Stiefvater wove them all together perfectly. 

The story was truly amazing. I've always been fascinated by psychics, magic and ancient legends. It has so many layers, and so many hints and clues dropped everywhere - both to current story in the book and the overall story - that I think a re-read of the book will even more to the reader. It was at times intense, kept me at the edge of the seat, but also had me both laughing and anxious. But even though I loved the story, what I really think made this book was the characters. Holy moly. Maggie Stiefvater has created a cast of different, unique and intriguing characters that you cannot help loving. They all have strengths and weakness, and they each have their own story. 

I loved all the raven boys, Gansey, Ronan, Adam and Noah, but I do think my favorite were Gansey and Ronan. Gansey because there was something special about him, he was a rich kid who has everything, but he is always looking beyond, searching and needing to find something that might not be found. He's always there for the others, but is somehow lonely himself and, I think, maybe the one least understood. 

Ronan, on the other hand, was so different from Gansey, he's rough on the edges and such a complex character, burdened with dark secrets. It all made him very interesting, and I was eager to learn even more about him. 

Blue was another favorite, and I liked her sensible eccentric personality. She was stubborn and courageous, and often spoke up her mind. I also felt like I could easily relate to her and her relationship with her family, and how she feels left out by being the only one who doesn't have any psychic abilities. 

Overall, The Raven Boys was an exceptional, amazing story. It's a book I think I will often come back to, and a book I can't stop thinking about. 

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

Angelfall by Susan Ee

It's been six weeks since angels of the apocalypse descended to demolish the modern world. Street gangs rule the day while fear and superstition rule the night. When warrior angels fly away with a helpless little girl, her seventeen-year-old sister Penryn will do anything to get her back.

Anything, including making a deal with an enemy angel.

Raffe is a warrior who lies broken and wingless on the street. After eons of fighting his own battles, he finds himself being rescued from a desperate situation by a half-starved teenage girl.

Traveling through a dark and twisted Northern California, they have only each other to rely on for survival. Together, they journey toward the angels' stronghold in San Francisco where she'll risk everything to rescue her sister and he'll put himself at the mercy of his greatest enemies for the chance to be made whole again.

My thoughts

This is one of those times where I think a hype is fully deserved. Wow, this book was amazing. I don't quite know how to tell you just how special this book was. Right off, it doesn't seem much different than other YA dystopia books, but that's only until you turn the very first page. I was sucked into the story and couldn't let go. It was funny, creepy, intense, actionpacked and snarky in a perfect blend. I never knew what was going to happen next. 
I was utterly impressed by Susan Ee's writing, I don't know exactly what it was, but it just made the story flow effortless. 

I loved the story and how the angels were portrayed as the "bad guys" like they were in the old stories from the Bible. The mystery, however, is why they have suddenly attacked Earth. And are all the angels evil?
I also liked how the angels weren't the only dangerous part in the story; after the angels have created havoc and destroyed cities, humans will do anything to survive in this post-apocalyptisc world, even if it means turning against each other, often with fatal results. Nothing is safe anymore, and there's nowhere to turn for help. I think this gave the story even more of an edge, while it was still very believable.

I absolutely loved Penryn, she was such an awesome heroine. Really. She was independent and used to taking care of her family and would do anything to keep them safe. But still, she knew when she needed help, and she accepted that. She could protect herself, and kicked some major ass, and she didn't wait around for someone else to come safe her. And she definitely did not go around swooning over Raffe, she just didn't have time for that. 

Raffe was mysterious and I had a hard time figuring him out. At first it was clear that he only made the deal with Penryn because he had to, and that he didn't think highly of her. Then he would protect her without really needing to. He sent mixed signals, and I loved trying to sort him out.  

The banter between Penryn and Raffe was hilarious, and they seriously cracked me up. 

“A little weird? That was freakin' Bizarroville."
He pauses and looks back at me. 
"Are you speaking English?” 

There was a touch of romance, maybe more like a little tension between them, but it never took over the story. They both had more serious things to focus on, but I loved seeing them slowly change their look and understanding of each other. 

The only thing I didn't like about this book was that it was a bit too creepy for me at times. I don't read horror books because they honestly scare me so much. Yes, I'm a bit of a wuss. So when I suddenly stumpled over that in Angelfall I'm sure I sported some crazy expressions while I cringed from the book. But it was only a small part so it wasn't too bad, and I will still read the sequel, World After, even if Susan Ee hinted at it being even more creepy.

Angelfall is a book not to be missed. The story was fast-paced and engaging, the characters were believable, and Penryn is what you secretly have been missing in most other YA heroines. A new favorite for me, and another long wait for the next book, which I just cannot wait to read.

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ 

Suddenly Royal by Nichole Chase

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Samantha Rousseau is used to getting her hands dirty. Working toward a master’s degree in wildlife biology while helping take care of her sick father, she has no time for celebrity gossip, designer clothes, or lazy vacations. So when a duchess from the small country of Lilaria invites her to dinner, Samantha assumes it’s to discuss a donation for the program. The truth will change the course of her life in ways she never dreamed.

Alex D’Lynsal is trying to keep his name clean. As crown prince of Lilaria, he’s had his share of scandalous headlines, but the latest pictures have sent him packing to America and forced him to swear off women—especially women in the public eye. That is, until he meets Samantha Rousseau. She’s stubborn, feisty, and incredibly sexy. Not to mention heiress to an estate in his country, which makes her everyone’s front-page news.

While Sam tries to navigate the new world of politics and wealth, she will also have to dodge her growing feelings for Alex. Giving in to them means more than just falling in love; it would mean accepting the weight of an entire country on her shoulders.

My thoughts 

I absolutely adored this book. It was sweet and cute, but with a touch of something more, deeper. It's very much like The Princess Diaries (or the movies anyway), except that this is in the New Adult genre with a feisty, reluctant duchess-to-be and a very hot and irresistible Prince Yummy. 

Sam is a very down to earth, normal girl in grad school who tries to make ends meet financially to support her fathers hospital bills. That is until she is invited to a meeting with a duchess from a small country, who claims Sam is the last descendant from an important royal and wealthy family from Lilaria. Sam now has to decide if she'll keep her normal life or go to Lilaria and undertake the role as duchess and change her life forever, while she is constantly followed by the media. And as if this isn't enough she is starting to fall for Alex, crown prince of Lilaria, which would mean a whole other kind of responsibility. 

I think Sam was a great character. She was funny and sarcastic, and said some of the most hilarious things. I laughed out loud a lot because of her. Her world was turned upside down, but I think she handled everything very well, both becoming royal and all the things that happened to her and those around her. I liked how Chase portrayed, how everything changed for Sam, the choices she had to make, the responsibility she got, how the media was just everywhere, and of course the life as a royal. Becoming royal also mean that Sam gets to spend time with a certain prince.

I loved, loved Alex. He was sweet and hot, and a genuinely good guy, who supported Sam all the way. He had me swooning so many times. I think Sam had an impressive self-control around him - I don't think I would have been able to hold back. Anyway, he and Sam had great chemistry, and I loved the moments between them. Sam tried hard not to fall for him, because it would mean having to become queen and facing a future in the ultimate spotlight, but who was she kidding - Alex was totally irresistible.   

There was a great cast of secondary characters, and they all brought something to the story. I liked Sam's father who urged her to go, her best friend with all the funny comments, and Alex's sweet sister, whose story I can't wait to read in the companion book. Also, I really liked the imaginary country, Lilaria, and I think Chase did a good job of describing it and making it seem real. 

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It was a fun and light read that also had a certain depth to it. If you like the NA genre Suddenly Royal is a book I'll definitely recommend. 

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ 

The Indigo Spell by Richelle Mead

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In the aftermath of a forbidden moment that rocked Sydney to her core, she finds herself struggling to draw the line between her Alchemist teachings and what her heart is urging her to do. Then she meets alluring, rebellious Marcus Finch--a former Alchemist who escaped against all odds, and is now on the run. Marcus wants to teach Sydney the secrets he claims the Alchemists are hiding from her. But as he pushes her to rebel against the people who raised her, Sydney finds that breaking free is harder than she thought. There is an old and mysterious magic rooted deeply within her. And as she searches for an evil magic user targeting powerful young witches, she realizes that her only hope is to embrace her magical blood--or else she might be next.

My thoughts

This series just get better and better. Seriously, this book was amazing, and I've had a really hard time trying to put my thoughts in words, because.. wow. I read it in one day, because I simply couldn't put it down. I was on the edge of my seat several times, and when I was reading the last pages I was so consumed I think my house could've burned down, and I wouldn't have noticed. 

The plot continues from The Golden Lily where Sydney finds out about Marcus Finch being a former Alchemist who has managed to escaped. Sydney is not sure what to believe anymore, and she further questions the Alchemist teachings. When she finds Marcus she is let to further doubt the Alchemists, and soon finds herself on a daring mission to discover the truth. At the same time her powers as a witch is growing, and she starts to accept her abilities, even though it goes against everything she has been taught. And as if this wasn't enough, Sydney finds herself more drawn to Adrian, even though a relationship between them is absolutely forbidden.

There were many different plots going on simultaneous in this book, but I think Mead managed to wove them together perfectly, so it never seemed like too many different things were happening, and making the story flow effortlessly. Sydney has changed a lot since Bloodlines and is still changing with everything that happens to her and around her. I really liked Sydney in this book. Well, I've liked her all the books, but it was great to see her truly coming in to her own, and seperating herself from the Alchemists and all their prejudices and believes.
We also get to see a lot more of Sydney and Adrian together, which are always my favourite parts. I think it was interesting to watch her struggle with her feelings, and Adrian certainly isn't making it any easier for her, when he declares that he won't ever stop loving her. I actually really liked that he didn't pressure her in any way, but that he just was there for her. Otherwise, he was still very much Adrian, making me swoon just about every time he was mentioned. Which was a lot. 

“He was too perfect, despite being one of the most imperfect people I knew.” 

I was a bit sad that neither Jill, Eddie or Angeline played a very big role in this book, they were sort of pushed in the background. But we did occationally glimpse the awkwardness of the Jill-Eddie-Angeline triangle, and while I felt bad for Jill at times, it was quite funny to see their dynamics.

The Indigo Spell is one of the best books I've read this year, and the series is quickly becoming one of my favorites ever. Now I seriously can't wait to read The Fiery Heart! 

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ 

This Girl by Colleen Hoover

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Layken and Will’s love has managed to withstand the toughest of circumstances and the young lovers, now married, are beginning to feel safe and secure in their union. As much as Layken relishes their new life together, she finds herself wanting to know everything there is to know about her husband, even though Will makes it clear he prefers to keep the painful memories of the past where they belong. Still, he can’t resist his wife’s pleas and so he begins to untangle his side of the story, revealing for the first time his most intimate feelings and thoughts, retelling both the good and bad moments, and sharing a few shocking confessions of his own from the time when they first met.

In This Girl, Will tells the story of their complicated relationship from hispoint of view. Their future rests on how well they deal with the past in this final installment of the beloved Slammed series.

My thoughts

If you think this book is just a retelling of Slammed from Will's POV you're wrong. It is soo much more. First of all, it begins right after Point of Retreat ended on Will and Lake's honeymoon, where Lake asks Will to tell her his version of the events during Slammed. The story then shifts between Will's retelling of Slammed and the honeymoon, which means we get a good few glimpses of what happens to them after Point of Retreat. I really liked Will's POV in the last book and I very much did so too in This Girl. Okay, that's a lie. I absolutely loooved Will's POV, and I liked how different he reacted to all those heartbreaking events in Slammed. And there can be no doubt about how much he loves Lake. 

Granted, there are many repetitons in This Girl, because it is after all a retelling of Slammed. I didn't really mind, though, for seeing things from Will's POV made it a different reading experience altogether.

Reading Slammed I often wondered what Will was thinking and why he did what he did. What was he thinking in the hallway, or when Lake agreed to go on a date with another guy, or when Lake recited her poem in class and the one in Club N9ne? All these questions were answered and then some more. There were also extra scenes that weren't mentioned in either Slammed or Point of Retreat which I loved! My favorite part, though, were definitely the ending where... Yeah, I'm so not going to tell you that, cuz that would be too much of a spoiler, that you really wouldn't want. 

As usual Colleen Hoover's writing was just amazing. Even though I knew exactly what was going to happen, I went through all the emotions again. The utter joy of their meeting and their first date, the heartwrenching frustration, the sadness, some more frustration, and finally the happiness when everything is solved. Even though I'm a bit sad that there won't be anymore Will or Lake, I'm so very happy and satisfied with the ending of the series. This Girl was simply the perfect ending to an amazing series that I won't soon forget.

If you've read the previous books you must not miss This Girl!

“I lie back on my pillow and think back to that day. The day that I fell for my wife.”

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen

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A long hot summer... That's what Macy has to look forward to while her boyfriend, Jason, is away at Brain Camp. Days will be spent at a boring job in the library, evenings will be filled with vocabulary drills for the SATs, and spare time will be passed with her mother, the two of them sharing a silent grief at the traumatic loss of Macy's father.

But sometimes unexpected things can happen—things such as the catering job at Wish, with its fun-loving, chaotic crew. Or her sister's project of renovating the neglected beach house, awakening long-buried memories. Things such as meeting Wes, a boy with a past, a taste for Truth-telling, and an amazing artistic talent, the kind of boy who could turn any girl's world upside down. As Macy ventures out of her shell, she begins to wonder, Is it really better to be safe than sorry?

My thoughts

This book was amazing and compelling, and I could not put it down. I felt like I really got this book, that I wasn't so much reading it as I was experiencing it. From the moment I was introduced to Macy, what she had been through and the life she had now sort of chosen for herself, I felt a need to rush through the book until she found happiness again. I don't think I've felt that before, but she was just so lonely and miserable without really understanding that she was. Instead of truly grieving the loss of her father, Macy built up this "perfect" life for herself, where everything were defined and scheduled, so she could hide herself and never confront grief or the past. She wanted everything to be and look perfect, she even had the perfect boyfriend to complete it. But life is far from perfect, and Macy is about to find out that maybe it doesn't have to be.

“It's just that...I just think that some things are meant to be broken. Imperfect. Chaotic. It's the universe's way of providing contrast, you know? There have to be a few holes in the road. It's how life is.” 

That summer it's time for Macy to finally find herself again, to live her life, to face the past and know that it's okay to feel sadness and loss, and to remember the life she had before. And it all begins when she meets the crew at Wish. Wish is by definition chaotic, and nothing ever happens the way it should, but that doesn't matter, you just figure out along the way. This is a stark contrast to Macy, who has to plan everything. She thinks too much and never does anything impulsive. A thing I could more than relate to, and like Macy something I wish I wasn't so afraid to change. But slowly, very slowly Macy starts to let go, to let things happen as they do, not planned and certainly not perfect. Being with everyone at Wish she changes and start living again, even if it scares her to abandon her very scheduled life, she almost obsessively followed as a way of comfort. 

“It was just one of those things," I said, "You know, that just happen. You don't think or plan. You just do it.” 

I loved, loved everyone at Wish. Everyone was different and had their own story that defined them, and I think Dessen did a great job in creating each character, making them real and belivable. Wes and Macy's friendship was one of the best parts. He was the first one she could be honest with, and he in no way judged her for her feelings. He just listened to her, like no one had done before. Being with Wes she could finally leave her idea of a perfect life and realize that you can't really be perfect, but being imperfect and flawed might actually be better. Everyone had an impact on Macy's life, and she learnt something from everyone of them, about herself, about life and about forever.

I really liked Dessen writing, and I liked that she showed instead of told. Macy didn't always clarify her feelings, or had those inner monologues where she tells what she is feeling. It was more based on her actions. You could see the change in her in the things she did and the way she thought differently about certain things. 

So, I think I kind of fell in love with this story. It had me laughing, thinking, cheering, crying and wondering. The book stayed with me even after I finished the last page, and I love a book that makes me reflect upon life. There were so many little things that were important in the book, that I cannot even sum up. It's like all these small details make a whole and together they are significant. 

“It's all in the view. That's what I mean about forever, too. For any one of us our forever could end in an hour, or a hundred years from now. You never know for sure, so you'd better make every second count.”  

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

Slammed by Colleen Hoover

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Following the unexpected death of her father, 18-year-old Layken is forced to be the rock for both her mother and younger brother. Outwardly, she appears resilient and tenacious, but inwardly, she's losing hope.

Enter Will Cooper: The attractive, 21-year-old new neighbor with an intriguing passion for slam poetry and a unique sense of humor. Within days of their introduction, Will and Layken form an intense emotional connection, leaving Layken with a renewed sense of hope.
Not long after an intense, heart-stopping first date, they are slammed to the core when a shocking revelation forces their new relationship to a sudden halt. Daily interactions become impossibly painful as they struggle to find a balance between the feelings that pull them together, and the secret that keeps them apart.

My thoughts

I was a bit hesistant about this book, because there have been a huge hype about Colleen Hoover's books, and I've been rather disappointed with popular books lately. But it turned out there was absolutely nothing to fear, because Slammed was absolutely fantastic. It was much more, actually, but I can't seem to find proper words for how much I love this book, and it has taken me very long to even write this review. The story was so touching, so deep and so thought-provoking, and I honestly loved every word of it.
Hoover has such a way with words, enchanting you, so you get sucked right into the story, never wanting to leave. You just want to keep reading about these amazing characters till you've turned the very last page, and then you'll crave more. And I was consumed by all the feelings I had while reading, from happiness to despair, from love to fear, and from giddiness to sadness. I might even have cried a little bit. 

Lake was an amazing character. Right from the beginning I knew I was going to like her. Even though she has had a hard time following the death of her father, she keeps moving on. And then finally she finds happiness, just to lose it all before she even really got it. She goes through a lot, and sometimes she breaks down, sometimes she just want to pause it all and don't deal with it, but in the end she faces it all with courage and responsibility. And I admired her for all the difficult choices she made. 

Will is one of my new favorite male main characters. He is simply perfect, though he makes a lot of mistakes and is flawed, he is also just the best guy. He is so sweet and caring, always put others before himself and he is always, always there to help Lake. I absolutely loved his poems, and how he poured his heart out. Honestly, he made me totally swoon throughout the book, and I couldn't get enough of him. 

Actually, I loved all the characters in this book, which is kind of rare for me. But they were all so believable and loveable, and they all had such a great impact on the story. Julia was an incredible mother and she definitely taught me some life lessons. Caulder and Kel took some of the tension out of the book while living a bit backwards. I loved how Eddie was always cheerful and happy despite all the things she had been through, and how she understood and helped Lake. All the characters kind of spoke to me and somehow in different ways inspired me.

As you can probably tell I loved this book very much, and it got right into my very limited all-time favorites list. I'm not sure my review even did the book justice, I feel like I mostly just ramble, trying to string my thoughts together. So I guess I'll just recommend that you read and experience Slammed yourself.

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

Where She Went by Gayle Forman

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It's been three years since the devastating accident . . . three years since Mia walked out of Adam's life forever.

Now living on opposite coasts, Mia is Juilliard's rising star and Adam is LA tabloid fodder, thanks to his new rock star status and celebrity girlfriend. When Adam gets stuck in New York by himself, chance brings the couple together again, for one last night. As they explore the city that has become Mia's home, Adam and Mia revisit the past and open their hearts to the future-and each other.

Told from Adam's point of view in the spare, lyrical prose that defined If I Stay, Where She Went explores the devastation of grief, the promise of new hope, and the flame of rekindled romance.

My thoughts

Adam story was just as touching and heartwrenching as Mia's in If I Stay, though in quite a different way. Where If I Stay focused on life, Where She Went was much more about loss, and how to deal with it. 

Three years have past since Mia's accident and since she left him in the airport - and never came back. Adam has become a rockstar, but even though he's achieved everything he wanted he's not happy. He has fallen out with music and life, and he lives day by day, assuring himself that if he got through yesterday, he may get thorugh today as well, maybe even tomorrow. I was sad to see what had become of Adam in this book. He was such an amazing guy in If I Stay, but sadness and sorrow had changed him a lot. I still liked Adam very much, and though he seemed very different now, you could still see the caring, wonderful guy underneath. 

I have to admit that I didn't quite like how he led his life after Mia left him, sort of giving up on everything. I mean, considering Mia being able to pick herself up and go on with her life after what happened to her, he  he initially just gave in to misery. While I did understand his sorrow, and how he just wanted to drown in his grief I was a bit disappointed with him in the beginning. As everything was unfolded, however, you find out there's a lot more to his story than just Mia leaving him, that he also lost someone he cared about in the accident, and being in the band, playing music is nothing like it was before.  

I loved Mia in this book. She is such a strong character, and I still very much admire her. I was impressed by how she handled everything, her loss, her life, and that she didn't want pity from anyone. She just wanted to live life like everybody else. I think she could maybe have dealt with Adam in a better than just leaving him like that, but I couldn't resent Mia, because knowing her from If I Stay, I knew she had a reason for doing what she did. But you'll have to read for yourself to see if that is true. 

I liked how the story planned out, though I think there was a bit too many flashbacks. Where I didn't mind it in the previous book, I think it broke the story up too much in this. It's not that I didn't like what was told, I did for the most part (though some of it were a bit painful to read, because Adam past was heartbreaking at times), it was just a bit too much. That being said, I really liked this book and I simply couldn't put it down. I loved Mia and Adam's tour through the city, and how they rediscover each other - and perhaps their love. And Adam finally finding himself again. 

If you liked If I Stay this book is a must-read. 

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆  

If I Stay by Gayle Forman

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In a single moment, everything changes. Seventeen-year-old Mia has no memory of the accident; she can only recall riding along the snow-wet Oregon road with her family. Then, in a blink, she finds herself watching as her own damaged body is taken from the wreck...

A sophisticated, layered, and heart-achingly beautiful story about the power of family and friends, the choices we all make, and the ultimate choice Mia commands.

My thoughts

I didn’t know what to expect from this book, besides it being sad. Surprisingly, it wasn’t. Well, not that much anyway, because it was sad. But this book is just as much about life as it is about death, and that life can be worth choosing even though it seems there’s nothing left to live for. I was also surprised by how much I liked the book. No, loved this book! It was absolutely amazing, and I think Forman's writing is equally amazing. She made everything and everyone seem so real. I also really liked how she weaved past and present together, showing Mia's life before the accident through her memories. It never felt forced, and I was never bothered by it, on the contrary - I loved every single bit of Mia's memories. After the accident I liked that Mia was mostly detached from everything, her injuries, her loss. Like she was floating above, looking from the outside, never really comprehending. Otherwise I think it would have been way too emotional, or more emotional than it was, anyway. But then there's this moment where she suddenly acknowledge or understand everything... and it was so gutwrenching.

I think Mia was a great character, but I find it difficult to explain why I liked and admired her so much. She was a quiet sweet person with a certain calmness about her. But at the same time she had an inner strength and she was very stubborn. She faced some hard choices; first before the accident where she had to choose whether to follow her dream as a musician and go to Julliard or stay with her family and the love of her life; and then after the accident the choice remains, should she stay.. or go?
While I was reading, I couldn't help wondering what I would do in Mia's situation. Would I want to stay behind? And what would make me stay behind, if everything seemed lost? But then, through Mia, you see all the things that's left to live for. All through the book I awaited Mia's decision and what would make her choose. I think whichever she chose, I would understand, and that's one of the things I loved about this book; that I could truly emphasize with Mia.

Actually, I loved all the characters in this book. Adam was simply perfect, both from Mia's memories before the accident and everything he did afterwards. He was so sweet and he cared so much about Mia, and he would do everything for her - even if it meant doing the one thing he would never want to do. Mia's parents, who were just so funny, real and awesome, her brother Teddy, their friends, Mia's best friend. And of course Gramps. He didn't say all that much, but when he spoke to Mia - well, he got through alright.

I would most definitely recommend this book. Really, you must go read this book. It's a very stunning book, and so much more than I ever expected. But I have to warn you; you'll probably want to have the sequel, Where She Went, close by when you finish this, because you'll want to tear right into it.

A new favorite of mine.

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta

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At age eleven, Taylor Markham was abandoned by her mother. At fourteen, she ran away from boarding school, only to be tracked down and brought back by a mysterious stranger. Now seventeen, Taylor's the reluctant leader of her school's underground community, whose annual territory war with the Townies and visiting Cadets has just begun. This year, though, the Cadets are led by Jonah Griggs, and Taylor can't avoid his intense gaze for long. To make matters worse, Hannah, the one adult Taylor trusts, has disappeared. But if Taylor can piece together the clues Hannah left behind, the truth she uncovers might not just settle her past, but also change her future.

My thoughts

My first word upon finishing this book was "wow!" and then I sat a bit in stunned silence. This book.. I don't even think I have words to describe it. I think amazing might do, though it doesn't really seem to cover it proberly. No wonder this book won the Printz Award for excellence. 

When I started reading Jellicoe Road I was so confused, and that made it pretty hard to get into it. But I thought I'd give it a few more chapters, before I gave up. And I'm so glad I did! While I was still somewhat confused after a couple more chapters, I was so intrigued by the story and the writing that I couldn't stop reading. Then suddenly everything started to make sense, and the book became this big puzzle where you need all the pieces to understand the full picture. And when you've collected them all you can just sit back and admire this masterpiece. 

Marchetta brilliantly weaves together past, present and dreams, and I loved how everything was slowly revealed and put together. There were some minor plots that seemed random at the time, but in the end turns out to be essential or profound to the story - and I was totally taken aback. Most impressive was how all the threads were tied and connected in the end, and how all questions were eventually answered. 

All the characters in the book were equally amazing. None of them were perfect, and they were so real. They all had their part to play and had importance to the story. I was kind of surprised by many of them; and how some of them were actually so very differently than how they first appear. There were also some major growth to some of the characters, like Taylor, she really grew into an awesome person, and I liked how she eventually figured out what exactly was important to her, and how she looked past the things she was missing and valued the things she already had. 

Jellicoe Road is a truly amazingly perfect book that I don't think I can recommend enough.

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

Apollyon by Jennifer L. Armentrout

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Fate isn’t something to mess with… and now, neither is Alex.Alex has always feared two things: losing herself in the Awakening and being placed on the Elixir. But love has always been stronger than Fate, and Aiden St. Delphi is willing to make war on the gods—and Alex herself—to bring her back.

The gods have killed thousands and could destroy entire cities in their quest to stop Seth from taking Alex’s power and becoming the all-powerful God Killer. But breaking Alex’s connection to Seth isn’t the only problem. There are a few pesky little loopholes in the whole “an Apollyon can’t be killed” theory, and the only person who might know how to stop the destruction has been dead for centuries.
Finding their way past the barriers that guard the Underworld, searching for one soul among countless millions, and then somehow returning will be hard enough. Alex might be able to keep Seth from becoming the God Killer… or she might become the God Killer herself.

My thoughts

Wow, this book..! I have no words, so I'll have to go with something like: A.M.A.Z.I.N.G. I'm surprised to say that Apollyon is even better than Deity. Yeah, I didn't think that was possible, because I was in awe of Deity. But Apollyon just blew right past it. Several times during the book I was like: asdfghjkl. And then I went through all the emotions, and I think my internal monlogue jumped between whaaat and noooo and  yeah, go Alex and awww. 

The book started just a bit after Elixir ended - and I think it would be best, okay, necessary - to read it before reading Apollyon, even though it's novella and set between books. So, Alex is still in this freaky bond with Seth and being all Evil Alex, with Aiden on the outside trying to bring out the real Alex. The question is, can Alex break the bond? What happens if she does? And how can Alex keep Seth from becoming the God Killer before it's too late? 

There was a lot of action in this book, much more than any of the other books, but I think JLA balanced it well with some quiet moments inbetween, where everyone could get some peace before everything spazzed out again. And I seriously couldn't stop reading this book. When I reached the last pages, I hoped more would magically appear, so I could just keep reading. Alas, none did. But I thoroughly enjoyed and devoured every one of those that were.
We get to meet many new gods in this book, which I think was awesome, and Apollo is also still around, with that excellent timing of his. On a side note, I love Greek mythology, and I think JLA use it extraordinary in this series, and I absolutely love how many parts of said mythology is incorporated in the story. From Olympus to the Underworld to all the different gods and creatures.

My favorite part in JLA's books is and always will be the characters - I simply love the characters she creates. They feel so real to me.
Alex has matured a lot during all the books. After becoming the Apollyon everything has changed for her, and with it she has changed. She is more in control of herself, thinking a lot more before she acts and says anything. But even though she has changed a lot, she is still very much herself. She always has a snarky or sarcastic comment at hand, she's fierce and unyielding, stubborn, protecting of those she love - and still very much in love with Aiden St. Delphi.

Aiden.. oh my.. Can I just say I love him? For each book I love him a little more, and in Apollyon he opened more up, was less in the rigid, constant control of himself and was very caring of Alex. He is still this strong character we met in Half-Blood who will stop at nothing to protect those he love.
There was a lot more moments between Alex and Aiden than I had even dared to hope for. And boy, did I LOVE that. I cannot get enough of them. They were so cute around each other that I couldn't help smiling stupidly all the time. It was also funny seeing them together around others, no longer keeping their relationship a secret.  

I very much liked all the secondary characters too. I liked seeing the new sides to Marcus as well as Lea, laugh with Deacon and Luke and just generally see the crowd - and I was constantly afraid that something would happen to any of them. I was kind of on the edge of my seat all the time.
And then there's Seth. After Deity I pretty much hated Seth. Like really hated him, but after Apollyon.. well, he didn't redeem himself (yet), but I think there's hope for him. And I liked that. 

Now I can't wait to read Sentinel, but fortunately (thank gods), Apollyon didn't end on a big a cliffhanger as Deity (which just sucked daimon butt), so I think can impatiently wait for the last book. Wow, the last book. It's going to be sad leaving all these awesome characters... But we've still got an adventure ahead of us, and after reading Apollyon I have no doubt that it'll be absolutely amazing.

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

Easy by Tammara Webber

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Rescued by a stranger.
Haunted by a secret
Sometimes, love isn’t easy…

He watched her, but never knew her. Until thanks to a chance encounter, he became her savior…
The attraction between them was undeniable. Yet the past he’d worked so hard to overcome, and the future she’d put so much faith in, threatened to tear them apart.
Only together could they fight the pain and guilt, face the truth—and find the unexpected power of love.
A groundbreaking novel in the New Adult genre, Easy faces one girl's struggle to regain the trust she's lost, find the inner strength to fight back against an attacker, and accept the peace she finds in the arms of a secretive boy.

My thoughts

Wow, this book! I'm completely blown away by it! I have to admit that I hadn't expected very much from it, but it seemes everybody was praising this book, so I thought I'd see what all the hype was about. And boy, was I in for a nice surprise. I devoured this book, I couldn't put it down! I don't even quite know what it is I like about the book - well, except for just all of it. So far this is the best New Adult book I've read. Okay, I haven't read that many yet, but still..! When it ended I wasn't ready to leave the characters yet. I could just read about them all day, and I wish the book had been even longer, so I could read more about them. Jacqueline and Lucas are characters that stays with you. 

The story begins when Jacqueline, leaving a party, is about to be raped, but the she is rescued by this mysterious guy, she has never seen before. Except, after the attack he seems to be everywhere. Jacqueline thinks (or rather her friend suggests) he would do as an excellent rebound after her boyfriend recently dumbed her. But Jaqueline soon realizes that he is more than simply a rebound. Jacqueline and Lucas has great chemistry, and I loved every scene they were together.

I loved Jacqueline. She was strong, independent, clever and funny. I never think she made stupid choices, and I always understood her actions, which is kind of rare for me. I also liked how mature she was, and how she picked up herself aften her a** of a boyfriend dumbed her. She moved on, and she never really looked back again. Well, I wouldn't either if I'd got Lucas. Another thing I really liked about Jacqueline was that she  wasn't constantly obssessing about him, she has other things to do, such as work, school and other normal things that she was equally occupied by this. 

Lucas was.. oh how to describe him. He was swoon-worthy! Simply put. He was sweet, caring, protective and brilliant. I loved that he was a bit shy, and wasn't the typical arrogant alpha male, used to getting excactly what he wants. He was genuinely interested in Jacqueline from the very beginning, but kept back and didn't force himself on her. And even though he was flawed, he was absolutely perfect. It's a persons imperfections that make them perfect, right? But Lucas had a good reason for being how he was, and after learning his secret I was so concerned for him. What he's been through.. Well, you'll have to read that for yourself, 'cause I'm not saying anymore. 

I liked all the secondary characters as well, and rather than just being there for.. you know, being there, they had a purpose. They were just as essential to the story - and to Jacqueline and Lucas - as the main characters themselves. I especially liked Erin, who was both fun, but also showed some impressive strength, determination and will. And she was always there for Jacqueline and was very understanding. She was a great best friend. 

The book dealed with some heavy issues, and I think it was handled very well by the author. I think her messages came through clearly, and it was very important ones at that.  

Overall, I loved this book, and I cannot recommend it enough. I know I'll be rereading it very soon. A new favorite.

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ 

The Golden Lily by Richelle Mead

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Sydney Sage is an Alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of humans and vampires. They protect vampire secrets—and human lives.

Sydney would love to go to college, but instead, she’s been sent into hiding at a posh boarding school in Palm Springs, California–tasked with protecting Moroi princess Jill Dragomir from assassins who want to throw the Moroi court into civil war. Formerly in disgrace, Sydney is now praised for her loyalty and obedience, and held up as the model of an exemplary Alchemist.

But the closer she grows to Jill, Eddie, and especially Adrian, the more she finds herself questioning her age–old Alchemist beliefs, her idea of family, and the sense of what it means to truly belong. Her world becomes even more complicated when magical experiments show Sydney may hold the key to prevent becoming Strigoi—the fiercest vampires, the ones who don’t die. But it’s her fear of being just that—special, magical, powerful—that scares her more than anything. Equally daunting is her new romance with Brayden, a cute, brainy guy who seems to be her match in every way. Yet, as perfect as he seems, Sydney finds herself being drawn to someone else—someone forbidden to her.

When a shocking secret threatens to tear the vampire world apart, Sydney’s loyalties are suddenly tested more than ever before. She wonders how she's supposed to strike a balance between the principles and dogmas she's been taught, and what her instincts are now telling her.

Should she trust the Alchemists—or her heart?

My thoughts

I've had a difficult time writing a review for this book (seriously, it has taken me forever), because I'm so overly excited by it. This was even better than Bloodlines, and I really liked that book. But not this. No, I LOVE this book! I don't think I'll be able to properly express myself and do this book justice, but I shall do my best. 

First of all, this book opens up only a few weeks from when Bloodlines ended. I gotta say that I prefer, when there's isn't too wide a time gab between books in a series. Anyway, things are a bit calm right now, even though Bloodlines left Sydney with a lot of questions. Is there something special about her blood? Can humans really wield magic? And is everything the Alchemists say true? Sydney seeks the answers, but she might not like what she find. I liked that she begins to question the Alchemist's beliefs, even though she is also reminded what happens to those who defy them and get too close to vampires. Sydney mentioned re-education center in the last book, and TGL gives a glimpse of what that means. Doesn't seem very nice. I certainly don't hope Sydney will somehow end up there!

Sydney was finally starting to feel comfortable around vampires (and especially a certain person), and I really, really liked that. She's slowly starting to break free from those patterns she was raised in. She still has everybody else interest at heart, and ultimately it's this I think will break her loose and fully embrace who she really is.
Once again, Sydney gave me an easy laugh. She is now expanding her social interactions to.. dating! Man, I was laughing so hard at times. She hasn't got a clue about anything. Which also explains why she doesn't get all the hints from that certain someone, though they were very obvious. I feel a need to mention Brayden here, who I'm sure is a very good guy, but also possibly the most boring guy! Most of all, he was so comical.
Anyway, I think it gave Sydney a good perspective of how a relationship should be, when she experiences the real thing.

Jill was much improved in this; she was more mature and thought a lot about her actions and the possible consequenses. I really liked her in this. And with her we also get to see some interesting side effects of the bond she shares with Adrian.

Speaking of. Adrian! He continued the growth he had going in Bloodlines, which is so great, because he is so much more than that facade he has put of for everyone. At heart he is an amazing guy, and Sydney brings out the best in him and gives him courage to be this better, stronger person he is. Ah, I loved Adrian in this book. And now I think I'll stop talking more about him, or I'll go crazy fangirling. 

There was a lot more emotional tension in this, which I'm a total sucker for. So what Bloodlines lacked was definitely made up for in The Golden Lily. I can't wait to see what The Indigo Spell will bring. Especially with that ending. Oh my gosh! I think my eyes popped out of my head when I read it, and then I was like nooooo, how could you do that?! Whyyyyyy?! Okay, I know why, but still..

Overall, as you might have noticed, I loved this book. It has reach my all-time-favourites list (and that is kind of hard to get on). Now I'll just go to anxiously wait for The Indigo Spell. 

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆