Insurgent by Veronica Roth (Book Review)

Title: Insurgent by Veronica Roth
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
Release Date: May 1, 2012
Genres: Action, Dystopian, Romance
Medium: Ebook, bought

Insurgent was an amazing sequel to the highly popular Divergent novel. In this dystopian thriller, Tris, Four, Caleb, Peter and Marcus travel to Amity headquarters to reside with the other hidden Abnegation members. When they are found out, they travel to Candor headquarters and are subjected to truth serum, among other things. Several secrets are revealed and trusts and relationships are put to the test. Many battles and fights break out, braveries is tested, and boundaries are pushed. I can't name everything that happens in this novel, because so much does happen. This novel portrays many themes, including betrayal, aggression, retaliation, rebellion, oppression, friendship, courage, and bravery. This novel was a great sequel, and leaves you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. Hard to put down. And it ends with one of the biggest cliff hangers ever.

The writing was also there. Of course, this sequel was much better than the first novel. Very action-packed and original, this novel borderlines on Young Adult and Adult. I do believe that any reader of any age would enjoy this novel. It has all types of themes that a reader could relate to and all the twists and turns of a cinematic read. Also, with the action-packed fighting and futuristic themes and the also strong romance and lead protagonist female, this novel is ideal for both male and female audiences. Very nice novel. Can't wait to read the sequel. (3/24/12)

Burned by P.C. Cast (Book Review)

Title: Burned by P.C. Cast
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Release Date: April 27th, 2010
Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal, Drama, Romance
Medium: Ebook, bought

Burned was yet another amazing sequel in the House of Night series. In my opinion, this has been the best one so far! Stevie Rae is struggling with her feelings towards the Raven Mocker, and Zoey's soul has been shattered, leaving her body alive on Earth for a short period of time, but her soul wandering in fragments in the Otherworld. Zoey's faithful warrior Stark goes on a quest to follow Zoey's soul to the Otherworld, gather the pieces, and bring her back whole. This whole plan becomes much more complicated when you add in Neferet's command that Zoey never return to her body, Kalona's mission to make sure she stays in the Otherworld, the Darkness threatening to keep her there, oh, and did I mention the fact that Stark must kill a part of himself to make it there alive and return, which no warrior and High Priestess has ever done? Yeah, I'd say he's gonna have a rough time. This novel has become one of my all time favorites, and I will give it 5 stars too. A lot of unexpected changes and romances appear in this novel, and it will keep you begging for more.

The writing and characters are still as amazing from the beginning. It's dramatic, sexy, action-packed, and full of hilarious moments and surprises. The plot is like a roller coaster, with dramatic, heart-pounding drops and nail-biting rising action. Lots of ups and downs. Definitely a series to keep you interested at all times. (6/26/13)

Tempted by P.C. Cast (Book Review)

Title: Tempted by P.C. Cast
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Release Date: October 27, 2009
Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal, Drama, Romance
Medium: Paperback, bought

Tempted was a great sequel in one of my absolute favorite series ever. In this sequel, secrets threaten to tear apart Stevie Rae and Zoey's friendship, and shake the foundation of the House of Night. And of course, having three boyfriends at once can also be a struggle. But the gang has banished Kalona and Neferet, and the fledglings are struggling to deal with the fallout, and Zoey is still struggling with her connection with A-ya, and the obvious connection between her and the dangerous immortal Kalona. And Stevie Rae's problems with the danger brewing under Tulsa isn't helping either.

P.C. Cast and her daughter's writing always has been (and always will be) magnificent. Sequel after sequel, they have never failed to bring a tasty, sexy new plot twist and make it more dramatic than before. They never disappoint. The fantasy and paranormal is both there, something not very common nowadays. And even better, the fantasy isn't unbelievable or unrealistic, and the paranormal factor of vampires isn't cheesy or boring. This series features new kinds of vampires, interesting, horrific, and troubled vampires. Very pleasing read. Loved this book. 6/11/13

Pushing The Limits by Katie McGarry (Book Review)

Title: Pushing The Limits by Katie McGarry
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Release Date: April 30, 2013
Genres: Contemporary, Romance, Drama
Medium: Paperback, bought

Pushing The Limits was a great dramatic read. I don't usually read dramas, but I am thoroughly impressed with this novel. With relatable characters and a very intriguing plot, this story keeps you on the edge of your seat. The entire story was like a roller coaster, you're scared one second, then you're angry, then you're filled with happiness.

McGarry has created a very realistic story that has you falling in love with the characters, and witnessing the characters' emotions yourself. In this novel, a good-boy-turned-bad falls hard for the girl next door. While he's facing family problems of his own, so is she, but with an even greater struggle. He's adopted and has lost his brothers, and she is living with her father and his expecting new wife, while her real mom is in jail. For attempting to kill her. And worst of all, she can't remember a thing about that night. So, as two outcasts get to know each other and each others struggles, they are finally able to make sense of their individual struggles- but at what expense? Will answers really comfort your soul? Five stars. I cannot wait for the sequel. 6/26/13