Book Review: Through the White Wood by Jessica Leake

Through the White Wood
by Jessica Leake
Expected Publication: April 9th, 2019

SYNOPSIS:

Katya’s power to freeze anything she touches has made her an outcast in her isolated village. And when she loses control of her ability, accidentally killing several villagers, she is banished to the palace of the terrifying Prince Sasha in Kiev. 

At the castle, though, she is surprised to find that Sasha is just like her—with his own strange talent, the ability to summon fire. Instead of punishment, Sasha offers Katya friendship, and the chance to embrace her power rather than fear it. 

But outside the walls of Kiev, Sasha’s enemies have organized their own army of people who can control the very earth. Bent on taking over the entire world, they won’t stop until they’ve destroyed everything. 

Katya and Sasha are desperate to stop the encroaching army, and together their powers are a fearsome weapon. But as their enemies draw nearer, leaving destruction in their wake, will fire and frost be enough to save the world? Or will they lose everything they hold dear?

REVIEW:

I was sent an early copy of this in exchange for an honest review.

Several months back I discovered Jessica Leake's work in the incredible Beyond a Darkened Shore. While Through the White Wood isn't quite a sequel, it does take place in the same world and we even see characters from Beyond a Darkened Shore which was very satisfying. This book immediately hooked me within the first page. The two main characters Katya and Sasha are extremely compelling and supported by many equally great characters. I felt deeply for Katya and her feeling of being an outsider and enjoyed watching her strengthen to finally accepting her powers. Everything that occurred was gradual and at a believable pace which I think is important in a story. If things happen too fast it can really hurt things such as the genuine growth of relationships between all of the characters. When Katya met the prince she really wanted nothing to do with his war and had no idea how deeply it would affect her world. I found I warmed to the prince at about the same pace as her and when they finally came to understand one another it was all the more rewarding. Some other characters of note that I enjoyed were Kharan, Ivan, Boris, and of course Elation. Oh Elation, how the story of her eagle broke and touched my heart! I could not put this book down and highly recommend it to those with an interest in all things fantasy!

RATING: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Book Review: Out of the Blue by Sophie Cameron

Out of the Blue
by Sophie Cameron
Release Date: May 15th, 2018


SYNOPSIS:

Sometimes, I imagine alternate endings to the story: last-minute miracles, touches of magic. I picture how things might have gone, if I wasn’t there. If I’d left just a few minutes later. If I hadn’t been alone. It doesn’t make any difference. One way or another, the crash always comes.

Ten days after Jaya Mackenzie’s mum dies, angels start falling from the sky. Smashing down to earth at extraordinary speeds, wings bent, faces contorted, not a single one has survived.

Hysteria mounting with every Being that drops, Jaya’s father uproots the family to Edinburgh intent on catching one alive. But Jaya can’t stand this obsession and, struggling to make sense of her mother’s sudden death and her own role on that fateful day, she’s determined to stay out of it.

When her best friend disappears and her father’s mania spirals, things hit rock bottom and it’s at that moment something extraordinary happens: An angel lands right at Jaya’s feet, and it’s alive. Finally she is forced to acknowledge just how significant these celestial beings are.

Set against the backdrop of the frenzied Edinburgh festival, OUT OF THE BLUE tackles questions of grief and guilt and fear over who we really are. But it’s also about love and acceptance and finding your place in this world as angels drop out of another.

REVIEW:

I was sent an early copy of this from Fierce Reads in exchange for an honest review.

To say that this writer is brilliant would be an understatement. Out of the Blue is so raw and full of emotion. It takes a lot to hit me in the way that this story did and I can't wait to read more of Sophie's work. The main character struggles with misplaced guilt and regret throughout the book and I can relate to that. We all struggle with that though, right? There are key moments in all of our lives that you look back on and say, "What if I had done things differently?" WHAT IF? I struggle with this constantly and this very realistic story with a touch of fantasy really got me thinking. I think it's great that books such as this exist and feel that it fits a wide audience. While this story seems like it will turn out one way it surprises you in the most beautiful way.

RATING: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Book Review: The Supervillain and Me by Danielle Banas

The Supervillain and Me
by Danielle Banas
Release Date: July 10th, 2018

SYNOPSIS:

As witty as it is heartpounding, this fresh take on the beloved superhero genre is all about finding your own way to shine even when it seems everyone else around you is, well... super.

Never trust a guy in spandex.

In Abby Hamilton’s world, superheroes do more than just stop crime and save cats stuck in trees―they also drink milk straight from the carton and hog the television remote. Abby’s older brother moonlights as the famous Red Comet, but without powers of her own, following in his footsteps has never crossed her mind.

That is, until the city’s newest vigilante comes bursting into her life.

After saving Abby from an attempted mugging, Morriston’s fledgling supervillain Iron Phantom convinces her that he’s not as evil as everyone says, and that their city is under a vicious new threat. As Abby follows him deeper into their city’s darkest secrets, she comes to learn that heroes can’t always be trusted, and sometimes it’s the good guys who wear black.

Chosen by readers like you for Macmillan's young adult imprint Swoon Reads, The Supervillain and Me is a hilarious, sweet, and action-packed novel by debut author Danielle Banas that proves no one is perfect, not even superheroes.

REVIEW:

I was sent an early copy of this from Fierce Reads in exchange for an honest review.

I always gravitate towards superhero stories and this definitely didn't disappoint. I could not put this book down! When I started it I felt like I knew who the guy behind the mask was and I am so glad I was wrong. I enjoyed the progression of every character and the ending. Hopefully there's a second book soon because I need more! I also need and Iron Phantom artwork in my life...I'm just saying. *wink wink* I won't post spoilers as this hasn't been released yet, but if you like superhero stories I believe you will enjoy this. The Supervillain and Me felt in many ways reminiscent of the Playstation show Powers and I loved that show. Danielle's writing style is fun and easy to follow and I definitely think you all should check her out! Since this comes out on my birthday I may have to put a finished copy of this on my wish list.

RATING: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Book Review: Batman: Nightwalker by Marie Lu

Batman: Nightwalker (DC Icons #2)

by Marie Lu

Published: January 2nd, 2018


SYNOPSIS:


Before he was Batman, he was Bruce Wayne. A reckless boy willing to break the rules for a girl who may be his worst enemy.

The Nightwalkers are terrorizing Gotham City, and Bruce Wayne is next on their list.

One by one, the city's elites are being executed as their mansions' security systems turn against them, trapping them like prey. Meanwhile, Bruce is turning eighteen and about to inherit his family's fortune, not to mention the keys to Wayne Enterprises and all the tech gadgetry his heart could ever desire. But after a run-in with the police, he's forced to do community service at Arkham Asylum, the infamous prison that holds the city's most brutal criminals.

Madeleine Wallace is a brilliant killer . . . and Bruce's only hope.

In Arkham, Bruce meets Madeleine, a brilliant girl with ties to the Nightwalkers. What is she hiding? And why will she speak only to Bruce? Madeleine is the mystery Bruce must unravel. But is he getting her to divulge her secrets, or is he feeding her the information she needs to bring Gotham City to its knees? Bruce will walk the dark line between trust and betrayal as the Nightwalkers circle closer.


REVIEW:

My friend Heather sent me a signed copy of this book as a Christmas gift and I LOVED IT!

I have long been a fan of Batman's origin story and Marie Lu’s take on teenage Bruce Wayne is refreshing, beautifully written, and true to his character. You can deeply feel the deep moral conflict he is going through and can see him gradually working his way towards his Batman persona. From the way that Bruce is written I can definitely see a few similarities to the version David Mazouz plays of him on the show Gotham. I really enjoyed the character Madeleine as well and by the end of the story I was gripping the edge of my seat. She was such a tricky character that made you couldn't help but care for and I would definitely like to see more of her in a future Batman book. I highly recommend this book to anyone that is a fan of Batman! 

RATING: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️  

Book Review: Bound to You by Alyssa Brandon

Bound to You

by Alyssa Brandon

Release Date: April 10th, 2018

SYNOPSIS:

A teen werewolf finally meets her destined soulmate only to discover that he's not quite what she expected in this steamy debut romance.

She's met her mate . . . and he's met his match.

Megan Ross has been waiting her whole life for her mate to come and sweep her off her feet. But the wolf she meets on the beach is NOT the sweet gentle boy she's been dreaming of. Instead, he's a warrior, one whose suffering has led him to lock his heart away in a prison as cold and hard as a diamond, who fights to resist the bond and their deep sexual attraction.

Far from home, with a soulmate who is still a stranger, Megan learns that the path to true love isn't quite as straight and easy as she thought . . . 

REVIEW:

I was sent an early copy of this from Fierce Reads in exchange for an honest review.

In my early twenties I used to read a lot of shifter romances and going back to it was quite fun. My main hesitation was my worry over it ending up like every other werewolf romance I've ever read. Now, while there were many similarities to other stories I have read in the past, I enjoyed it. Megan and James seem like a real couple with very real issues that created a depth to their relationship. It wasn't just a, "We're mates, lets get it on now," type of thing. Well, on Megan's end it was, but James' emotional scars kept him closed off for a great deal of the book and their gradually growing love felt genuine. One of the only things I felt was a bit lacking was some more insight into the other characters. I really hope there is a sequel because... I NEED TO KNOW MORE ABOUT LUCY!

RATING: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Book Review: Night of Cake & Puppets by Laini Taylor

Night of Cake & Puppets

by Laini Taylor

Published: September 12th, 2017

SYNOPSIS:

In this stand-alone companion to the New York Times bestselling Daughter of Smoke & Bone series comes the story of Mik and Zuzana's fantastical first date—as a gorgeously illustrated gift edition with bonus content included.

Petite though she may be, Zuzana is not known for timidity. Her best friend, Karou, calls her "rabid fairy," her "voodoo eyes" are said to freeze blood, and even her older brother fears her wrath. But when it comes to the simple matter of talking to Mik, or "Violin Boy," her courage deserts her. Now, enough is enough. Zuzana is determined to make the first move, and she has a fistful of magic and a plan. It's a wonderfully elaborate treasure hunt of a plan that will take Mik all over Prague on a cold winter's night before leading him to the treasure: herself! Violin Boy is not going to know what hit him.

New York Times bestselling author Laini Taylor brings to life a night only hinted at in the Daughter of Smoke & Bone trilogy—the magical first date of fan-favorites Zuzana and Mik. Originally published as an ebook, this new print edition will include breathtaking black and white illustrations, plus bonus content in a gorgeous package perfect for new and current fans of the series. 

 REVIEW:

I was sent a copy of this for review from NOVL and I can't rave enough about this book!

First off, I have a confession... I have never read anything by Laini Taylor so this was my first introduction to her writing style as well as these two characters. Laini has such a compelling style that I just blazed through this story. I also couldn't get enough of the stunning artwork included by Jim Di Bartolo. Experiencing the romantic hesitation on both ends between Zuzana and Mik was so endearing. They may be young and new to love, but they really put a lot of thought into making their two paths collide and when they do...it's MAGICAL!

I will definitely be picking up the Daughter of Smoke & Bone series very soon!

RATING: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Book Review: The Dreadful Tale of Prosper Redding by Alexandra Bracken

The Dreadful Tale of Prosper Redding

by Alexandra Bracken

Published: September 5th, 2017

SYNOPSIS:

"I would say it's a pleasure to meet thee, Prosperity Oceanus Redding, but truly, I only anticipate the delights of destroying thy happiness."

Prosper is the only unexceptional Redding in his old and storied family history — that is, until he discovers the demon living inside him. Turns out Prosper's great-great-great-great-great-something grandfather made — and then broke — a contract with a malefactor, a demon who exchanges fortune for eternal servitude. And, weirdly enough, four-thousand-year-old Alastor isn't exactly the forgiving type. 

The fiend has reawakened with one purpose — to destroy the family whose success he ensured and who then betrayed him. With only days to break the curse and banish Alastor back to the demon realm, Prosper is playing unwilling host to the fiend, who delights in tormenting him with nasty insults and constant attempts trick him into a contract. Yeah, Prosper will take his future without a side of eternal servitude, thanks.

Little does Prosper know, the malefactor's control over his body grows stronger with each passing night, and there's a lot Alastor isn't telling his dim-witted (but admittedly strong-willed) human host. 

From #1 New York Times best-selling author Alexandra Bracken comes a tale of betrayal and revenge, of old hurts passed down from generation to generation. Can you ever fully right a wrong, ever truly escape your history? Or will Prosper and Alastor be doomed to repeat it?

SPOILER FREE REVIEW:

I was sent an early copy of this for review from Disney Books and I must say, it was one of my top reads of the year!

I've always loved a good middle grade book and this did not disappoint. Alexandra has quite a way with words and kept me thoroughly entertained throughout this story. I can relate to Prosper on so many levels and those that struggle with impressing others and feeling seen will as well. This story takes place during Halloween and everything was described so vividly that I could picture it all. The other character in this book that was a shining star was Nell, a young witch who just wants her mother back at whatever cost...until she fully realizes that it's a cost she can't live with. Even with the revelations at the end of this book I feel we will be seeing a lot more of her in book two. This is going to be a hit series! To say that the end of this book threw me for a loop would be an understatement. I can't wait for the sequel and more of Alastor's antics!

RATING: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Book Review: The Wicked Deep by Shea Ernshaw

The Wicked Deep
by Shea Ernshaw
Release date: March 6th, 2018

SYNOPSIS:

Hocus Pocus and Practical Magic meets the Salem Witch trials in this haunting story about three sisters on a quest for revenge—and how love may be the only thing powerful enough to stop them.

Welcome to the cursed town of Sparrow…

Where, two centuries ago, three sisters were sentenced to death for witchery. Stones were tied to their ankles and they were drowned in the deep waters surrounding the town.

Now, for a brief time each summer, the sisters return, stealing the bodies of three weak-hearted girls so that they may seek their revenge, luring boys into the harbor and pulling them under.

Like many locals, seventeen-year-old Penny Talbot has accepted the fate of the town. But this year, on the eve of the sisters’ return, a boy named Bo Carter arrives; unaware of the danger he has just stumbled into.

Mistrust and lies spread quickly through the salty, rain-soaked streets. The townspeople turn against one another. Penny and Bo suspect each other of hiding secrets. And death comes swiftly to those who cannot resist the call of the sisters.

But only Penny sees what others cannot. And she will be forced to choose: save Bo, or save herself.

SPOILER FREE REVIEW:

I was sent an early copy of this for review from SimonTEEN and I have to say this was one of my favorite reads of 2017! 

When I dove into The Wicked Deep I expected things to go one way and then they went completely different. Misdirection is a powerful tool in a writer's arsenal that I sadly don't see enough of and Shea used it brilliantly. The rug was pulled out from under me at the moment that I was about ninety percent through the book and it blew my mind! I adore the main characters Penny and Bo so much and the deep love stories touched me. Even though some may say I shouldn't, I empathized with one of the witches and understand the rage and the sense of righteousness the sisters felt in their vengeance. Shea has a lovely writing style that I really can't compare to another author. I've always found myself drawn to stories that jump between different points in time and it was frequently done here and in such a way that I could visualize everything. If you enjoy reading about young love and delving into the wrongful persecution of witches,  you will LOVE this book!

RATING: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Book Review: The Crowns of Croswald by D.E. Night

The Crowns of Croswald
by D.E. Night

SYNOPSIS:

In Croswald, the only thing more powerful than dark magic is one secret… 

For sixteen years Ivy Lovely has been hidden behind an enchanted boundary that separates the mundane from the magical. When Ivy crosses the border, her powers awaken. Curiosity leads her crashing through a series of adventures at the Halls of Ivy, a school where students learn to master their magical blood and the power of Croswald’s mysterious gems. When Ivy’s magic––and her life––is threatened by the Dark Queen, she scrambles to unearth her history and save Croswald before the truth is swept away forever. 

REVIEW:                                                  
D.E. Night sent me a copy of her debut novel The Crowns of Croswald for review and let me tell you, it didn't disappoint. Prepare to start off this book with a lot of questions and leave it with many more. This book has a really great pace and I never got bored. I would recommend it to all ages. If you enjoy the Harry Potter or Percy Jackson series this is the book for you!

The Crowns of Croswald is centered around an orphan teenager named Ivy Lovely who discovers she has magical powers. This is a beautiful rags to riches story full of whimsy. What I really enjoyed the most about this book is how vividly I could picture this enchanting world. D.E. has a very melodic writing style that had me falling into this world and not wanting to resurface. I truly care for the characters in this book, most especially Ivy, Fyn, and Rebecca. Croswald is quite different from other magical worlds. I would love to get into the minds of the Hairies and learn more about them. They are so intriguing! The Dark Queen and the Cloaked Brood were truly frightening and I can't wait to find out more about these mysterious villains. I also enjoyed the professors at the Halls of Ivy. Ivory Lucky was very interesting to try to imagine... I hope someone draws a picture of her soon. I feel a bit uneasy with the Selector and feel that she is still hiding many secrets. One character that always had me smiling was Winsome. He played such a pivotal role in Ivy's first year at The Halls of Ivy and was so much fun. Now back to the creatures... Humboldt the dragon was hilarious! I swear, that dragon was like a spoiled lap dog by the end of the book. I wanted to drag him out of the book and take him home to feed him pies. Another creature I adored was the Shorehorse. I really hope we get to see it in the next book because it was incredible. I just feel like we'll be seeing it again. As everything unfolded at the end and much was revealed, I was devastated when I realized I'd finished the story. I did not want this book to end! In conclusion, I give this book five stars! This is exactly my kind of story and I will be on the lookout for the second book. 

TRAILER:

You can get your copy of

The Crowns of Croswald on AMAZON now!