Dark Secrets 2 by Elizabeth Chandler

Series: Dark Secrets

 Author: Elizabeth Chandler
Page Count: 599
Published: May 4th, 2010
Publisher: Simon Pulse
  3 Stars ★★★

This young adult bind-up contains books 3 and 4 of the Dark Secrets series. In "No Time to Die", we follow a girl attending a theater camp where her sister died. The mystery of her death remains unsolved, but a supernatural mystery - and a love triangle - complicate things further. In "The Deep End of Fear", Kate returns to the Westbrook Estate where her friend Ashley drowned many years before. Tutoring the young Patrick, she starts to fear the possibility of dangerous family dynamics, and even the paranormal. Will she suffer from another loss? Or will she be the one to die this time?


Both of these books are best described as enjoyable, but not particularly memorable.


The atmospheres in both stories were definitely creepy and tense, which was a major strength. Overall, the characters were interesting, likeable, and made me want to keep reading. However, the second story felt way too drawn out, and at times quite boring.


I appreciate the hint of romance in both stories, although the first story had a bit more romance than the second. I like that there was a paranormal or supernatural element to both mysteries, however it wasn't too intense or overpowering the "real life" mysteries that the characters faced. It was very balanced.


I think that the reveal of the first book's villain, and their motives, was a bit too unbelievable for me. I also found that there were some annoying cliches, such as the whole "villain explains evil plan to the hero" trope.


Overall, these books were interesting, but I'm not interested enough to keep them in my book collection. I recommend this for fans of Elizabeth Chandler's first two Dark Secrets books, and for those looking for a short mystery.


Find Dark Secrets 2 on Goodreads

Huntress by Malinda Lo + Crossed by Ally Condie

Series:N/A

 Author: Malinda Lo
Page Count: 371
Published: December 11th, 2012
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
  2.5 Stars ★★

Huntress is about powerful sage Taisin and mundane Kaede, who live in a world where crops are failing, people are starving, and their home is in danger. The girls are selected to travel to Tanlili, where they are to speak with the Fairy Queen. But the journey to Tanlili possesses dangers, and some may not make it out alive. Not to mention the girls' hearts, which may be falling for each other.


I really enjoyed Ash, a Cinderella retelling by Malinda Lo. As a result I was hoping to enjoy Huntress, but unfortunately, I didn't. It wasn't the worst book ever, but I'd rather have skipped it had I known it would be like this.


My main issue is with the pacing. It made it very boring. After about 25% of the book, I was just skimming large parts, entire chapters. There was wayyyyy too much description! It kind of feels like the author was just spouting off description to fill the book up! This book could have been better....were it about 100 pages thinner.


I did like the sort of tense, almost resistant romance the two girls developed. Taisin, as a sage, would end up celibate for her whole life, so she was really uncertain concerning starting a romance with Kaede. I thought that added some romantic suspense to the book because I was wondering if she'd choose Kaede, or if she'd abandon her. I also liked the fantasy elements, like the fact that sages even exist as a valid occupation or title in this society, along with the fairies!


Overall, I can't say I truly enjoyed this, however it wasn't entirely horrible. While there was way too much description for my tastes, I did like the romance and the fairies!


Find Huntress on Goodreads

Series: Matched

 Author: Ally Condie 
Page Count: 367
Published: March 12th, 2013
Publisher: Speak
  4 Stars ★★★★

Life forever changed for Cassia in Matched when she dared to question the Society. Now in Crossed, her journey continues as she sneaks away during a camp transfer, and finds herself in the Outer Provinces. She wants to look for the Rebellion and for Ky, who was sent away after the events of Matched, and who she loves.


But attacks and gunfire are common in the Outer Provinces, and she must travel far to reach the Rebellion. She's not sure if she will even find Ky.....will she survive?


This was a good follow-up to Matched, and I like that this book focused on the journey through the Outer Provinces, along with Cassia's hopes and fears. This story was told through both Ky and Cassia's viewpoints, which I also enjoyed because it gave me a peek into what both of them were dealing with, particularly since they were often not together.


I continued to hope that Cassia and Ky would succeed in their mission! But I have to say that I'm not sure if I want Cassia to end up with Ky or Xander. I really like them both! I can't wait to read the next book to see how the trilogy ends.


Find Crossed on Goodreads

Beautiful Cover of the Day

Hey everyone. I haven't done one of these in a while! But there are so many beautiful book covers I want to share....


Today I am featuring Gravemaidens!

I like this cover because all of the elements work together to create a beautiful, striking image. I love the colour scheme, it is interesting because I tend to prefer darker covers but I think the lighter colours work so well here. I like that the colours are fairly faded/toned down except for the bright, bold blue in the middle of the jar/bottle. It really captures my attention.


I love the font of the title, and the positioning. The slight curve of the letters mirrors or parallels the slant on the top of the bottle/jar, but it isn't too curved.


The words "beauty is a sacrifice" sound ominous and draw me in so much! I also like how the author's name is prominently displayed, but it does not overwhelm the cover image (as I have seen in some covers).



What are your thoughts on this book cover?

Hotter Blood by Jeff Gelb (Various Authors)

Series: Hot Blood
Author: Jeff Gelb and Various Authors
Page Count: 352
Published: September 1st, 2004
Publisher: Pinnacle
  4 Stars ★★★★

So I can't say too much about the individual stories and plots featured in this anthology, as this would result in a review made of spoilers. So, I am just giving my general thoughts!


This erotic horror anthology features a range of short stories from contemporary horror to supernatural terrors. All stories have some erotic component to them, but don't worry, this doesn't undermine the scare or creep factor! In most cases, it actually makes the story more creepy.


This was a great anthology that introduced me to so many new authors. I loved the mix of erotic and horror themes, as I'm interested in genre-bending stories and all the strange and bizarre places our imaginations can go. I really enjoy both erotica and horror on their own, and while I was a bit skeptical about if they would mix well, this anthology showed me that these two genres/themes mix incredibly well under the right circumstances.


The stories ranged from very scary and shocking to not scary at all. I found a few of the stories were good overall, but I don't think they were suited for a horror anthology. On the other hand, some stories introduced me to concepts and ideas I'd never ever thought of! Many of the authors were very creative and original, and this resulted in me adding even more books to my to-read list.


I definitely want to read the other erotic horror collections in this anthology series. I recommend this to fans of erotica and horror fiction who want to see an interesting blend of the two. If you want to discover new authors in these genres, this would be a great pick for you.



Find Hotter Blood on Goodreads

Let's Talk About Reading in Public

Alright, folks. So with the weather warming up, I am determined to spend more time outside the house this summer. However, I also want to read more this summer. I guess that means I will be reading more outside my house!



I do have some ideas and concerns about this, though. I want to talk a bit about them, and get your thoughts.



So first, I want to talk about the benefits of reading outside the house!



Exercise. You have to walk, or jog, to where you're going to be reading. This is great because there is a library near my house where I want to spend more time, so I get to be surrounded by books and get some exercise!



Sunlight and fresh air. Reading outside the house can include reading in parks, cemeteries, or at the beach. As a result, this can increase the amount of sunlight and fresh air you get, which is also great.

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Discovering other books. If you decide to go sit at the library to read, you can also browse for more books to read later on!


An excuse to get ice cream. Hey, I'm outside and sweating in the sun, might as well get some ice cream to cool down!


I do have some concerns about reading in public, though!


First off, comfort. I like to sit cross-legged, or stretch my legs on the couch when I read. I can't exactly do that on the park bench. I have to be more careful about taking up space.

 

 I would not read this in public.

The books themselves. The subject matter of a book can be an issue when reading in public. There is the issue of the cover of a book, of course. Many romantic books have very steamy cover scenes, and personally I would not be comfortable reading them in public. Sometimes book titles can be a little raunchy as well! Maybe I am being paranoid here, but I also would avoid reading books such as Pet Sematary or The Smart Aleck's Guide to Grave Robbing in the cemetery.


The sun/heat. Of course, while getting more sun and fresh air is great, if it is too hot or sunny outside, you might find yourself regretting settling outside for a read.


People. People might come up to you and ask to talk about what you are reading. This is an issue for me because I am introverted and socially awkward.


What are your thoughts on reading in public? Do you agree with my pros/cons? Are there any other benefits or concerns you have that I have missed?


Happy Reading!

The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware

Series: N/A
Author: Ruth Ware
Page Count: 340
Published: July 19th, 2016
Publisher: Gallery/Scout Press
  5 Stars ★★★★★

Lo Blacklock's had a rough few days. She's still shaken up from someone breaking and entering into her house when she is assigned to report on a new luxury cruise ship. Packing up her things, she heads over to board the Aurora, meeting with the small group of people she will be travelling with. All seems well.


That is, until she hears commotion coming from the cabin next to her one night. Alarmed, she reports to the Aurora's staff, who claim that the cabin next to her is empty. But this can't be true....Lo had previously borrowed mascara from the woman in cabin 10. It becomes clear that somebody is trying to hide a secret, and this secret may prove deadly for Lo.


So I've recently found myself drawn to mystery books, and this one seemed intriguing and frankly, frightening. Imagine being stuck on a cruise ship with a possible murderer! This book unsettled me quite a bit, and the character of Lo Blacklock was a perfect narrator for this story.


I pretty much liked Lo immediately, and the connection with her started when she experienced the break and enter. The author doesn't hesitate to commence the tension and stress, which made me want to keep reading because, despite the main plot not really starting until a short while after the beginning of the book, her experiences demanded my empathy and attention. This was a great set-up for the terrifying mystery to come! This was great because as the story progressed, I have to admit that I second-guessed Lo's sanity and wondered if maybe she had imagined the commotion from cabin 10. Even if I thought she could possibly be overreacting, I still really rooted for her.


There were some great twists and turns in this mystery. I honestly did not see them coming! This tends to be an issue for me because the genres that I usually read, mainly young adult books, have become somewhat predictable for me, so it's nice to take a break from that and truly be baffled and consumed by a mystery! For this reason I'd recommend this book to those looking for novels that offer something different than they're used to reading, especially if you're looking for something unpredictable.


Overall I really loved this book and I will be reading more of this author's work in the future!


Find The Woman in Cabin 10 on Goodreads

Summer Plans

I know it is technically not summer yet, but the school year has ended so for me, this is the start of "summer"!


I want to talk about summer plans. First off, I am planning on blogging regularly again. Finally, I can relax (if my stressed out brain lets me!), so I can read more and concentrate on my blog :)


I am also planning on walking down to the library a lot. I live fairly close to it, so it is an incentive for exercise, plus many books I want to read! It's nice for when I want to get out of the house and not spend money.


I am thinking of making a summer TBR list. I have some books I definitely want to get to this summer, generally thicker books I don't have the time to really get into during the school year. Among these books are my copy of The 120 Days of Sodom and Other Writings (which has been.....an experience so far), Lady Midnight and Lord of Shadows (the second of which I received for Christmas!), A Court of Mist and Fury, and the soon-to-be-released Bedlam!

However, I don't want to put too many books on this list, as I also need to make sure that I have enough time to read library books as well (I never have time to visit the library during the school year). Do you make a summer TBR list? Is it definitive, or do you just choose a few select books that you make sure to sprinkle throughout your summer reading?


I am also hoping to get some planning and maybe even part of a draft done for the story I am working on. I really worked on world-building throughout the year, so maybe I can get things going on this project.



I don't really have any other summer plans, besides working. No traveling, no major get-togethers, just a nice, chill summer.



Just some important reminders: make sure to drink lots of water this summer! Don't forget to wear sunscreen, and try to have fun!


Do you have any summer plans?

Beautiful Book Covers

Today I want to talk about some more beautiful book covers! I am featuring a trilogy with covers I love!

 

 

I love these covers for a lot of reasons. I think they're just so pleasing to the eye, but what I really love about them is the colour scheme. I love the mostly grey scale colours with a big pop of orange, blue, or red. It makes them stick out from other books to me, and it is simple enough, but not boring. It is interesting, but not overwhelming either.


What do you think of these covers?

The Blood Keeper by Tessa Gratton + Vamps by Nancy A. Collins

Series: The Blood Journals
Author: Tessa Gratton
Page Count: 432
Published: August 28th, 2012
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers
  3 Stars ★★★

Mab is the new Deacon, leader of those who practice blood magic. Blood magic is a normal part of life for her, living on a farm, spending time with other blood witches like herself. Her peaceful existence is threatened, however, when she awakens a curse.

Will is an ordinary boy in an ordinary town. One day, a humanoid creature made of mud attacks him and he meets Mab. She's strange, and he tries to dismiss what happened, but a strange bruise leads him back to her, where he learns that he is now marked by a dangerous curse.

I really enjoyed Blood Magic, and I thought I'd love the sequel just as much, but honestly I can't say that I did. I liked Mab and Will, they were both interesting and good people, and I love how they were brought together through magic, but the book just took too long to get really, truly interesting. It was too slow paced for me. I spent a good portion of the book just wondering when the action was going to really get started!

I liked that the author included writings from the past, like from Mab's ancestor. It filled in the blanks and foreshadowed what was going to come. Sometimes I feel it distracted a bit from the main plot, though. And it made the book seem even more slow than it already was. 

Overall, I did enjoy reading about Mab and Will, but this book could have been a lot better. The pacing was too slow for me and it took too long for the action to really get going! 

Find The Blood Keeper on Goodreads

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Series: Vamps
Author: Nancy A. Collins
Page Count: 235
Published: July 22nd, 2008
Publisher: HarperTeen
  2 Stars ★★

Lilith is the daughter of a very rich vampire, and as an Old Blood vampire herself, she attends Bathory Academy, a night school for young female vampires. Going out with her friends one night to find some humans for dinner, she gets into a fight with a New Blood, Cally. Vampire hunters descend upon them and kill one of Lilith's friends, leaving Lilith hating Cally and blaming her for the death. 

Cally is upset when she learns that she must leave her New Blood school and attend the Old Blood Bathory Academy. After narrowly escaping vampire hunters, she must now deal with the wrath of Lilith at school. Furthermore, one vampire hunter seems particularly interested in her, and she thinks she might be developing feelings for him too. 

I picked this up because I love vampires! And the idea of vampire feuds sounded really interesting to me. Unfortunately I found myself pretty disappointed.

First off, the characters weren't developed very well. They all seemed very shallow and I wish that the author had taken more time to make them seem more real. I outright hated Lilith, and I think I was supposed to care about Cally but I honestly didn't. I also think the romance between the vampire hunter and Cally was very unrealistic and happened way too fast.

There didn't seem to be any concrete plot to this book, so I kept reading wondering where this was going. Nothing seemed really connected to a greater story-line.

I did like the author's writing style, her choice of words was excellent in my opinion. I also thought there was an interesting twist near the end. Had the story been more solid and the characters more developed, this could have been a great book. Unfortunately it didn't really do it for me.

Find Vamps on Goodreads

Awesome Things about eBooks

Hey everyone! So with the rise of technology, we've seen an increase in the ways we can read books. Whether we still read them mostly in physical form, in audiobook form, or via eBook apps on our phones and eReaders, there are so many choices and possibilities out there.


I always wonder what we are going to come up with next! It seems like we are continuously developing new ways to read, create, and listen to books and stories.


With that in mind, I want to talk about some things I really like about eBooks!


First off, they are super portable. I use my phone to download eReading apps, and it is so nice to just be able to pull out my phone and read! No carrying around bulky books, no worrying about bending the cover because I put it back in my bag too roughly.


I love being able to read thick books in eBook editions, because that saves room on my shelves, in my bags, and in my hands. It is especially useful on the bus where books, both thin and thick, are at risk of being dirtied or ruined by snow and dust and people stepping on it if I drop it.


Another awesome thing about eBooks is that authors have more options when publishing their work. No longer do authors rely on big publishers to have their stories read and appreciated. There are lots of independent publishers that give authors platforms for short stories, stand alone novels, and series. Some publishing options allow even the most inexperienced writers to publish their work, which allows them to receive feedback from readers and ultimately improve their writing skills.


Ebooks often cost less than physical books, which can be great for people on a budget. On the other end of this, though, is that unfortunately some people may not have access to eBooks for financial reasons. They may be unable to afford a compatible phone or other device, leaving them with only physical books for entertainment.


Overall, it seems that eBooks offer many advantages to both readers and authors alike, although there are difficulties accessing eBooks for some individuals. Do you see any other advantages, or even disadvantages, with eBooks? Do you prefer eBooks over physical books?

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Happy 2019!

Happy New Year everyone!


I hope you all had a great 2018, and I hope you all have an even better 2019!



How did all of you do concerning your book and reading goals for 2018? I achieved my goals, reading 72 books in 2018, with most books being 4 stars reads. According to my Goodreads stats, I read over 22 thousand pages!



This year, my reading goal is 50 books, though I hope I get to read more.



Concerning the new school semester, I will try my best to keep up my blog, because I really do miss blogging. But again, it depends on the work load. If it's anything like last semester, unfortunately blogging regularly may have to become a summer thing. I hope you can all be patient with me! I still think you're all awesome.



Do you have any non-reading resolutions for the new year?



Personally, my resolution is really just to take better care of my mental health. Whether that's through self care, or not hesitating to talk to someone when I'm struggling, I think I need to focus on myself a bit more.



Have a great year, everyone!