Nyxen's Review of "Dash & Lily's Book of Dares"

Dash & Lily's Book of Dares by David Levithan & Rachel Cohn
260 Pages
Knopf Books 2010

I've left some clues for you. If you want them, turn the page. If you don't, put the book back on the shelf, please.

So begins the latest whirlwind romance from the bestselling authors of Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist. Lily has left a red notebook full of challenges on a favorite bookstore shelf, waiting for just the right guy to come along and accept its dares. But is Dash that right guy? Or are Dash and Lily only destined to trade dares, dreams, and desires in the notebook they pass back and forth at locations across New York? Could their in-person selves possibly connect as well as their notebook versions? Or will they be a comic mismatch of disasterous proportions?

Rachel Cohn and David Levithan have written a love story that will have readers persuing bookstore shelves, looking and longing for a love (and a red notebook) of their own.

This was such an amazing read! Let me tell you a funny story. I read this books at the end of 2010. It wasn't until I got towards the end of the book that I realized we (the book and I) were coinciding with eachother. I mean to say that I was in the same time as them. I read the last chapter, Chapter twenty, the same day it took place, December 31st.

I really enjoyed that. I felt powerful. Well, Dash & Lily were an extremely cute yet awkward couple. They reminded me of my friends. Rachel and David have such powerful chemistry when it comes to writing. Everything about their writing just speaks to me.

The plot was wellwritten and the characters were very well rounded. I sort of wish there was a sequel to this book, wanting to see how their story progresses.

I'm not sure what else to say because I loved it so much that I don't know what how to put it into words.

Either way I recommend this book. You'll love it! It's not your average, typical love story. GET IT.

I rate this Five Stars

Nyxen's Review of "The Samantha Granger Experiment: Fused"

The Samantha Granger Experiment: Fused by Kari Lee Townsend
208 Pages
Sourcebook Jabberwocky
November 1, 2010

When you make a face or cross your eyes, do you parents tease that if you're not careful, your face might stay that way FOREVER?

Well, my parents said that if I'm not careful, I'll turn into one of my gadgets.

I thought they were joking, people!

But-somehow,someway-I have become a living, breathing, walking piece of technology. Apparently my head now has a built-in GPS and my palm is equipped with a talking and texting capabilities-just like my cell phone!

Now I'm a techno-superhero with powers that seem to have a mind of their own. Any, in my case, keeping a secret identity is harder than it sounds. I short-circuit every time Trevor Hamilton looks my way.

Like Being a girl isn't stressful enough.

This book was phenomenally hilarious. I was at the edge of my seat, waiting to see what was going to happen. Samantha Granger was cute, funny and very much a kid/teen that I adored.

Samantha is a regular teenage girl who is starting eighth grade. All she wants are friends, a regular life and her first kiss to be with Trevor Hamilton. She's walking home, a little lost, when she runs into a meteorite type of thing in the middle of the woods. Her "regular" life as she knows it is over as her mega-technologic phone, the Electro Wave, is fused into her.

She is now the town's superhero but no one considers her an actual superhero. They think she's behind everything bad that suddenly has happened in her town. Not only is has she gained some power, she has also become very intelligent, thanks to the power of the internet in her head. And now Trevor Hamilton has noticed her. And everytime he does somthing to Samantha, her hormones get out of control which evidentaly controls her powers.

Kari Townsend has a quirky sense of humor and writing style. I spend at least three days reading this novel because I didn't want it to end. The most heart-warming, actual teeneage relateable life(besides the fantasy portion of it) best novel I've read in 2010. Just because it isn't YA doesn't mean I can't love it. :D

I rate this novel Five Stars.

Until next time,

Nyxen's Review of "Hourglass"

Hourglass by Claudia Gray
339 Pages
HarperTeen 2010

BIANCA WILL RISK EVERYTHING TO BE WITH LUCAS.

After escaping from Evernight Academy, the vampire barding school where they met, Bianca and Lucas take refuge with Black Cross, a fanatical group of vampire hunters. Bianca must hide her supernatural heritage or risk certain death at its hands. But when Black Cross captures her friend-the vampire Balthazar-hiding is no longer and option.

Soon, Bianca and Lucas are on the run again, pursued not only by Black Cross, but by the powerful leaders of Evernight. Yet no matter how far they travel, Bianca can't escape her destiny.

Bianca has always believed their love could survive anything . . . but can it survive what's to come?

Hourglass takes place more or less a week after Stargazer. Bianca, Raquel, and Lucas are now staying and training with Black Cross after the battle at Evernight. For Bianca, she thinks everything has fallen into place but she's wrong. Everything is about to get worse and she can't stop it.

I think Hourglass is the best novel out of the series, so far. it give us more action, more drama, more romance, and even more twists and turns. Once you think it's over, Claudia Gray surprises you.

The characters have really evolved and matured in this one. From beginning to end, you really see Bianca and Lucas grow as one, taking the world by storm. They are faced with decisions that will either make them or break them, whether they can survive the grown up world or not.

I really enjoyed the fact that Bianca had to start makind desicions for not only herslef, but the people around her. Lucas also seemed very different, either that or he was developing. Either way I think he was well written then. Overall, I think the characters were outstanding in this novel.

The plot in Hourglass was just amazing, like nothing I've ever read before. Not only are there vampires in this one, but the wraiths, or ghosts, are back. They're back and out to get Bianca for themselves. Like I said, there was definitely more action and adventure and I practically jumped out of my seat with anticipation.

Claudia Gray really stepped it up with Hourglass, but will she keep it up in Afterlife, Bianca and Lucas's next adventure? Let's hope because so far, I haven't been dissapointed.

I rate this novel Five Stars.

Nyxen's Review of "The Death and Life of Charlie St. Cloud"

The Death and Life of Charlie St. Cloud by Ben Sherwood
265 Pages
Bantam Books 2004

In a snug New England fishing village, Charlie St. Cloud tends the lawns and monuments of an ancient cemetery where his younger brother, Sam is buried. After surviving the car accident that claimed his brother's life, Charlie is graced with an extraordinary gift: He can see, talk to,, and even play catch with Sam's spirit. Into his magical world comes Tess Carroll, a captivating woman training for a solo sailing trip around the globe. Fate steers her boat into a treacherous storm that propels her into Charlie's life. Their beautiful and uncommon connection leads to a race against time and a choice between death and life, between the past and the future, between holding on and letting go-and the discovery that miracles can happen if we simply open our hearts.

I first bought this book when the movie adaption came out. And I'll be totally honest. I only bought it because of the fact that Zac Efron was going to be in the movie. I know, I'm a loser but I really am sort of obsessed with him. Haha. I bought it so I could read it before I watched the movie. But I never read it and didn't watch the movie until recently.

Charlie St. Cloud is a very emotional and powerful novel. It's a mixture of life, romance, adventure and even the paranormal. Ben Sherwood really captured what it's like to be a very tough situation.

Charlie St. Cloud doesn't know what to do with his life after his brother, Sam, dies in a terrible car accident; one that Charlie thinks is his fault, one that gives him the power to see his spirit. So he into the old shed of the cemetery, becomes the caretaker and every day at sundown, Sam and Charlie play catch. The love that emits from their relationship is amazing. The way they bond, being brothers, is very heart warming.

Charlie thinks his life is going nowhere, and he's okay with that as long he has his brother. But things start to change after Charlie meets Tess. He wants to be with her but his promise to Sam still lingers. He doesn't know who to choose, he doesn't know if he should live his life.

The character development in this novel is outstanding. You can really see Charlie go from a boy to man, from someone lost to someone who knows what he wants. I just love the fact that this novel made me think. It left me wondering by the end of the novel, of all things in life and how it's so short.

If you want a bittersweet novel with a dash of paranormal romance then this is the one for you.

I rate this Five Stars.

Nyxen's Review of "Halo"

Halo by Alexandra Adornetto
484 Pages
Feiwel and Friends 2010

AN ANGEL IS SENT TO EARTH ON A MISSION.
BUT FALLING IN LOVE IS NOT PART OF THE PLAN.

Three angels - Gabriel, the warrior; Ivy, the healer; and Bethany, the youngest and most human - are sent by Heaven to bring good to a world falling under the influence of darkness. They work hard to conceal their luminous glow, superhuman powers, and, most dangerous of all, their wings, all the while avoiding all human attachments.

Then Bethany meets Xavier Woods, an neither of them is able to resist the attractions between them. Gabriel and Ivy do everything in their power to intervene, bu the bond between Xavier and Bethany seems too strong.

The angels' mission is urgent, and dark forces are threatening. Will love ruin Bethany or save her?

Alexandra is a genius! Halo is a compelling, beautifully written novel that makes me wish it were my life. The world she creates is magical and sometimes I can even imagine myself within her world. The description is beautiful, the characters are well written and it's just a great novel in general.

Bethany, the youngest of the angels, is just like a regular teenage girl, except more graceful. She's someone I would love to befriend and possibly look up to. The only problem is she does have a human heart (not in a literal sense). Bethany is an angel who cares too much about the humans she must protect and that gets her to fall in love with Xavier. *Sigh* Xavier is just dreamy. He's the kind of boy who you would love to have as a boyfriend. He's every one's dream boy; sweet, charming, charismatic, and loveable. Bethany and Xavier take the world by storm, even if their love is forbidden.

Yes, it's one those forbidden romances but with a twist. And an excellent one at that. It may start of that way but towards the end of the novel you will be at the edge of your seat, literally biting off your nails with anticipation at what's to happen next. I could go on and on about Alexandra's creation, but it would probably be too long. All I can say is that her way with words is like magic; beautiful imagery and an amazing voice. I thoroughly enjoyed Halo and I'm sure you would too.

It was a rather long novel, though. But don't let that stop you from reading it. I cannot wait for Alexandra Adornetto's upcoming novels.

I rate this novel Five Stars.

Nyxen's Review of "Rich and Mad"

Rich and Mad by William Nicholson
367 Pages
EgmontUSA 2010

Maddy is a sixteen-year-old who likes a boy in her theater club. Joe is a cute and popular and, incredibly, sending signals that he likes her back. Or does he? Isn't Joe going out with Gemma?

Rich has a crush on Grace, and he even sends a letter or recommendation from the pope to get her to pay attention to him. But Grace doesn't appreciate that tactic. . . .

The problem is, in life's messy mixed signals of friends and lies and sex and status, true love can be hard to find. And the real thing doesn't always come in the most obvious package, either. Is it possible that the person you never thought of that way is the one who will ultimately touch your heart?

First of all, let's talk about this gorgeous cover. I LOVE IT. I was going through amazon one day when I stumbled upon this book. I was immediately drawn to the cover because there's a couple, who look absolutely adorable and the fact that they're in a London phone booth. I then said, "I have to get this book." So then I did, and this is where we are. :D

I honestly did like this book. It really made my heart ache whenever the main character, Maddy, was feeling horrible. I related to her on many levels, but mostly on finding first love.

This book is about first loves, first times, and all the heartache and drama that comes in between that. I'll say I didn't find this novel at all cliche. Okay, there were some points where I thought, 'Would someone really do that?' but I forgot about that after I read Nicholson's superb writing. I think Nicholson is a genius at writing about teenager's and what comes with them. He really captured the essence of what it truly means to be a teenager trying to look for love, especially your first.

Rich and Mad was a compelling novel and i didn't want it to end. I didn't just love it, I learned something from it. I also learned that I have no idea what love is. But, I'm only fifteen so maybe that's why. :P

I recommend this novel but there is content in it that shouldn't go unnoticed. Read this book if you are mature enough to handle the intimate scenes. That is all.

I rate this book Five Stars.

Nyxen's Review of Mockingjay (Spoiler-Free)

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
400 Pages
Scholastic Press 2010

MY NAME IS KATNISS EVERDEEN.
WHY AM I NOT DEAD?
I SHOULD BE DEAD.

Katniss Everdeen, the girl on fire, has survived, even though her home has been destroyed. Gale has escaped. Katniss's family is safe. Peeta has been captured by the Capitol. District 13 really does exist. There are rebels. There are new leaders. A revolution is unfolding.

It is by design that Katniss was rescued from the arena in the cruel and haunting Quarter Quell, and it is by design that she has long been part of the revolution without knowing it. District 13 has come out of the shadows and is plotting to overthrow the Capitol. Everyone, it seems, has had a hand in the carefully laid plans - except Katniss.

The success of the rebellion hinges on Katniss's willingness to be a pawn, to accept responsibilty for countless lives, and to change the course of the future of Panem. To do this, she must put aside her feeligs of anger and distrust. She must become the rebels' Mockingjay - no matter what the personal cost.



This might be a rather long, spoiler-free review, so please bear with me.
Even though this review is spoiler free it only contains one spoiler. Don't worry. It is hidden and must be highlighted.

Let's start with the cover.
I think the cover of Mockingjay is absolutely gorgeous. The background is awesome (and not just because I love blue) and I think the white mockingjay is stunning. I think it is the best cover of all three books. I just think it really goes with the theme/concept of the story-obviously.

I really loved the characters. Katniss, well, I just felt sorry for Katniss most of the time. After all she been through, they would not give her a break. At times, though, I thought she went a little overboard. Sometimes she went from an amazing female protagonist to a whiny one. But I still enjoyed reading about her thoughts. Gale was a character I absolutely loved! And that's saying something because I despised him in the first two novels. We got to see more of Gale and his personality and you could really see how much alike Gale and Katniss were. And so I think the reason why I loved Gale so much was because he reminded so much of the old Katniss. The one I loved. Peeta, Peeta, Peera. Oh my God, Peeta! In this book, he almost gave me a heart attack. All I have to say is don't don't read this book during your math class because you will gasp in shock and surprise causing weird looks from classmates. Peeta is one of the reasons why I almost changed to Team Gale. I could really see what the Capitol can do to you. I realy felt for Peeta and he was, well, OH MY GOSH! SPOILERS: He almost killed Katniss! How could he almost kill Katniss?! I was shocked when that happened and I knew that he ha changed. I don't think he'll ever be the same. I just did not like Peeta most of time in this book. Finnick!! I think everyone can agree that one of their most favorite characters was Finnick. I mean, what's there not to love about. He handsome and very witty. If I didn't live Peeta as much then Finnick would be my kind of guy. He's just charming and very swoon worthy. I'm going to stop talking about characters because I'm afraid I'll start posting spoilers.

I think Suzanne Collins really stepped it up with Mockingjay. There was toms for action and dramatic events that kept my eues glued to the page the whole time. The only thing is I don't think it was as good as the first two books. At times I felt that is was going way too slow and that certain scenes weren't necessary. But once you pass those scenes you were going to be on the ride of you life. Collins's pacing was really well done, besides certain scenes. And everyone was anticipating the ending. They all wanted to know who Katniss was going to end up with and how every character's future will play out.

I, for one, thought the ending was bittersweet. I wouldn't say I loved it because after turnin that page I felt sort of depressed. I didn't react the way I thought I would. I literally closed the book and sat in silence. I don't know if it was just me or other people felt that way but I guess I wasn't satisfied. One word that came to my head, though, after finishing I was WOW. I did enjoy this book and the voice and setence structure and writing in general was outstanding.

I rate this book Five Stars

Nyxen's Review of "The Eternal Ones"

The Eternal Ones by Kirsten Miller
416 Pages
Razorbill 2010

Haven Moore has always lived in the tiny town of Snope City, Tennessee. But for as long as she can remember, Haven has experienced visions of a past life as a girl named Constance, whose love for a boy called Ethan ended in a fiery tragedy.

One day, the sight of notorious playboy Iain Morrow on television brings Haven to her knees. Haven flees to New York to find Iain and there, she swept up in an epic love affair that feels both deeply fated and terribly dangerous. Is Iain her beloved Ethan? Or is he her murderer in a past life? Haven asks the members of the powerful and mysterious Ouroboros Society to help her unlock the mysteries of reincarnation and discover the secrets hidden in her past lives, and loves, before all is lost and they cycle begins again. But what is the Ouroboros Society? And how can Haven know who to trust?

I was very hesitant to read this book at first because one look at it and it doesn't seem like a YA novel. But I was excited nonetheless because this was my very first I have ever gotten!

This book is crazy! Kirsten Miller's writing is phenomenal. I read this in a matter of days (could have read it sooner but school is horrible) and couldn't get enough of it. The plot is filled with such plot twists and turns that it's impossible to tell what is going to happen until the very end. This novel is like a whodoneit novel. And you don't find out who actually did until the very end.

The characters are wonderful. I related to them, on a certain level, that made me believe they were real. Iain was very mysterious yet very sexy and brooding. I couldn't not love him even with all that sneaking around. Haven was a very likable character. She was naive and innocent but all she wanted was to find the man in her visions. But none of the characters compared to Beau, Haven's gay best friend.
Beau is someone you have to love no matter what. He is the best friend you would want.

Kirsten Miller has created a powerful love story that connects the past with the present. True love never actually dies and Miller made it clear with this novel. Possibly one of the greatest novels I've ever read. The Eternal Ones takes you on the ride of your life with drama, tragedy, and mystery.

I rate this novel Five Stars.

Nyxen's Review of "Catching Fire"

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
400 Pages
Scholastic Press


SPARKS ARE IGNITING.
FLAMES ARE SPREADING.
AND THE CAPITOL WANTS REVENGE.

Against all odds, Katniss has won the Hunger Games. She and fellow District 12 tribute Peeta Mellark are miraculously still alive. Katniss should be relieved, happy even. After all, she has returned to her family and her longtime friend, Gale. Yet noting is the way Katniss wishes it to be. Gale holds her at an icy distance. Peeta has turned his back on her completely. And there are whispers of a rebellion against the Capitol - a rebellion that Katniss and Peeta may have helped create.

Much to her shock, Katniss has fueled an unrest she's afraid she cannot stop. And what scares her even more is that she's not entirely convinced she should try. As time draws near for Katniss and Peeta to visit the districts on the Capitol's cruel Victory Tour, the stakes are higher than ever. If they can't prove, without a shadow of doubt, that they are lost in their love for each other, the consequences will be horrifying.

Catching Fire, the epically amazing sequel to The Hunger Games, leaves us hungry for more after you turn the last page. The action was just as amazing as it was in the first novel, the drama was ten times more dramatic and the romance was just squeal-worthy. I'll be honest and say whenever I read about Peeta and Katniss I get all warm and fuzzy inside. They make me smile, erm, when they aren't fighting or arguing.

Which leads me to talk about character. The characters in this second novel are still amazing. They have developed tremendously through the course of these two novels and I have fallen in love with them even more. One of my favorite characters, besides Peeta, is Cinna. Who wouldn't love him and his gold eyeliner! He really makes Katniss who she is, the girl who was on fire, a mockingjay.

This novel delivers just as much punch as the first one did but I think it didn't out due the first. It was still just as amazing, just as awe-worthy, and just as freaking suspenseful. I want to congratulate Collins for writing such a respected novel even if it meant leaving us with a horrible cliffhanger. Maybe it was a good thing, something to make anticipate the third books, but I still don't appreciate it! I mean,c'mon, PEETA!!! D:

Overall, I rate this novel Five Stars.

Book 1 | Book 3

Nyxen's Review of "The Hunger Games"

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
274 Pages Paperback
Scholastic Press 2010

WINNING MEANS FAME AND FORTUNE.
LOSING MEANS CERTAIN DEATH.
THE HUNGER GAMES HAVE BEGUN. . . .

In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to death on live TV.

Sixteen-year-old Katnisss Everdeen regards it as a death sentence when she steps forward to take her sister's place in the Games. But Katniss has been close to dead before-and survival, for her, is second nature. Without really meaning to, she becomes a contender. But is she is to win, she will have to start making choices that weigh survival against humanity and life against love.

The Hunger Games has taken all YA fantasy novels to the next level. To me, this has been the next best thing since J.K. Rowling and Harry Potter. It might even be better.

There are amazing elements in which I just loved dearly. Action, adventure, romance. It was hard not to fall in love with Collins's writing style. I just got sucked into the world of The Hunger Games and I just wished I could be apart of it. That sounds weird, doesn't it? It's true, though. I adored this book so much that when I finished it I was sad.

I have a confession to make. I never wanted to read it. I've heard of it and I've seen everywhere but for some strange reason I never picked it up. That always seems to be the case with me. I see books everywhere, some are just waiting to be read yet I never pick them up, let alone give them a second glance. I really hate when that happens because I just miss out on something so spectacular. But ever since I got into blogging I have been open to many doors in the YA world.

The Hunger Games was just the beginning. The plot is absolutely fascinating. The story follows Katniss Everdeen as she tries to survive The Hunger Games, after taking her little sister's place. There she encounters things she would have never expected to find. Especially love. Peeta Mellark is one of the tributes apart of The Hunger Games who is in the same district as Katniss. Peeta pours his heart and soul to Katniss, who doesn't know how to react. But I know she loves him too.

I just loved this book. Everything was amazing and I am now completely obsessed with this series. I am so jealous that I couldn't think of it. Suzanne Collins, I applaud you for writing such an incredible start to a series that will be unforgettable.

I highly recommend this book for anyone!

I rate this Five Stars.

Nyxen's Review of "Uglies"

Uglies by Scott Westerfeld
448 Pages
Simon Pulse 2005

EVERYBODY GETS TO BE SUPERMODEL GORGEOUS. WHAT COULD BE WRONG WITH THAT?
Tally is about to turn sixteen, and she can't wait. Not for her license-for turning pretty. In Tally's world, your sixteenth birthday brings an operation that turns you from a repellent ugly into a stunningly attractive pretty and catapults you into a high-tech paradise where your only job is to have a really great time. In just a few weeks Tally will be there.

But Tally's new friend Shay isn't sure she wants to be pretty. She'd rather risk life on the outside. When Shat runs away, Tally learns about a whole new side of the pretty world-and it isn't very pretty. The authorities offer Tally the worst choice she can imagine: find her friend and turn her in, or never turn pretty at all. The choice Tally makes changes her world forever.

I adored Uglies! I bought this book last year as a last resort but this whole time I still hadn't read it. Until recently. This book is fascinating. Scott Westerfeld has created a world in which you would love to be apart of but at the same time not so much.

Tally is a regular fifteen year old who is awaiting to turn sixteen and pretty. In her world, anyone under sixteen is considered ugly. So Tally can't wait until her next birthday. But then she meets Shay. Shay is something different. She doesn't want to become pretty at all. She thinks it's worng for everyone to look the same, that being different(ugly) is nothing to be ashamed about.

Scott Westerfeld created a messed up world. A world which I loved very much. Everything word I read had meaning to it and the whole book in general was something that made me think even after I had put it down. I thought for a long time about the elements and morals of this story. Westerfeld has a way that gets you sucked in until you read the last page. And if that wasn't enough then waiting to read the sequel is even worse. All I know is that I thorougly enjoyed Uglies and can not wait to read the remaining books in the series.

I rate this book Five Stars.

Nyxen's Review of "City of Glass"

City of Glass by Cassandra Clare
541 Pages
McElderry Books 2009

To save her mother's life, Clary must travel to the City of Glass, the ancestral home of the Shadowhunters-never mind that entering the city without permission is against the Law, and breaking the Law could mean death. To make things worse, she learns that Jace does not want her there, and Simon has been thrown in prison by the Shadowhunters, who are deeply suspicious of a vampire who can withstand sunlight.

As Clary uncovers more about her family's past, she finds an ally in mysterious Shadowhunter Sebastian. With Valentine mustering the full force of his power to destroy all Shadowhunters forever, their only chance to defeat him is to fight alongside their eternal enemies. But can Downworlders and Shadowhunters put aside their hatred to work together? While Jace realizes exactly how much he's willing to risk for Clary, can she harness her newfound powers to help save the Glass City-whatever the cost?

Love is a mortal sin and the secrets of the past prove deadly as Clary and Jace face down Valentine in the final installment of the New Your Times bestselling trilogy The Mortal Instruments.

MAJOR SPOILERS AHEAD. READ AT OWN RISK.

OH. MY. GOD. OH. MY. GOD. Cassandra Clare is brilliant. There are no words to describe the world she has created. Everything about The Mortal Instruments Series is just amazing. I knew Clary and Jace weren't brother and sister. I jumped for joy when I read that part.

This books was by far the most emotional one for me. I cried, I laughed, I jumped excitedly and I cried some more. This book had the most heart-wrenching moment that I bawled. Little Max died and that really got to me. Maybe it's because I also have a nine year old brother. I also loved Clary and Jace. Whenever they are in the same room I could feel the tension, good and/or bad. Everything about this book caught me by surprise and I have no idea why I didn't read it when I first got it. Everything in the book was intense. The Shadowhunters and Downworlders had to form an alliance to stop Valentine because he was going to take over The Clave. It was full of action that kept me at the edge of my seat-or bed-most of the time.

I don't have much to say about this book. I don't think there is anything to say except that this book was just so amazing. I am a loss for words and that hardly ever happens. Clare has made me speechless with the words that she has written. I recommend this book to anyone who has a passion for young adult and fantasy.

I rate this book Five Stars.

Nyxen's Review of "13 To Life"

13 To Life by Shannon Delany
308 Pages
St. Martin's Griffin 2010

Everything about Jessie Gillmansen's life changed when her mother died. Now even her hometown of Junction is changing. Mysterious dark things are happening. All Jessie wants is to avoid more change. But while showing a hot new guy around Juncction High, she's about to discover a whole new type of change. Pietr Rusakova is more than good looks and a fascinating accent- he's a guy with a dangerous secret. And his very existence is sure to bring big trouble to Jessie's small town. It seems change is the one thing Jessie can't avoid.

SEMI-SPOILER ALERT! READ AT OWN RISK

Thank god I bought this book instead of a different one. I was amazed after reading 13 To Life. There's something mysterious about this book that keeps you reading until the very end. I should know, I stayed up until 3am to read this book.
You know that Pietr and his family are werewolves but you don't find out right away. You actually learn about it at the end and I love how Shannon Delany just leads up to Jessie's discovery.

There's something about the way Delany writes that makes you want more. You want to read more of Jessie, more of Pietr, and more of their relationship. The way Delany writes is real. You feel the characters emorions as if they were your own.

This wasn't some werewolf love story- well, it was but still. There was so much more to it. The fact that Delany had included Russian culture to these werewolves seemed to make this book even better. I also adored the characters. The Rusakova's were my favorites by far. Cat and Max were so well rounded that it was easy to picture them as real human beings. Alexi was very mysterious. I honestly never though he would be behind anything. He just seemed like a regular father figure. As for Pietr, he is such a diverse character. You never knew what to expect from him and he simply adored Jessie. I just hated that Sarah got in the way of their 'relationship.'

That's another thing that shocked me. Sarah is a bitch. Excuse my language, but it's true! When I found out that she caused Jessie's mom to get in to that accident and that she was apart of the mean girls my jaw dropped. I never liked Sarah since the beginning. I think it was intuition that led me to dislike Sarah.

All in all, Delany has created a wonderful world filled with love, mystery, and culture. I got sucked in since the beginning and could not put a down for anything. This book just became one of my all time favorites and I cannot wait for her second novel in this series. I applaud you, Shannon Delany.

I rate this Five Stars.

Nyxen's Review of "Old Magic"

Old Magic by Marianne Curley
369 Pages
Simon & Schuster 2000

NO ONE CAN FIGHT FATE ALONE.
When Kate and Jarrod first lock eyes across the classroom, their connection is instantaneous. While everyone else shuns Jarrod as a freak, Kate's passionate belief in witchcraft helps her see him for what he truly is - someone with a powerful gift. She is fascinated by what he is capable of . . . and undeniably attracted to him.

When Jarrod's abilities appear to be linked to a centuries old curse, Kate is the only one who can help him. Together, they embark on a journey that transcends time and place, and discover a magic that will bind them together forever.

SPOILERS AHEAD. READ AT OWN RISK

I did not expect anything that happened in this novel. I first picked it up last December and immediately fell in love with the story, even if I only read the first chapter. One of my favorite elements I love to read in stories is magic. And that's exactly what it had.

Old Magic tells a story of a girl, Kate, who has magical powers which labels her a freak and a boy, Jarrod, who is new in town, who only wants to fit in. But after an afternoon with Kate, Jarrod finds out about her abilities and supposedly his. Jarrod learns about his gift but he doesn't believe he has any because. It wouldn't follow the rules he lives by. He has hard time believing Kate has a gift. But when he learns his family has a curse placed upon them and not just bad luck he has to trust Kate.

I never foresaw time traveling in this novel. It's on of my favorite things to read so I was very ecstatic to read that. Kate and Jarrod's relationship is unique. Kate is the outcast of her school, along with her best friend, but she's okay with that. She knows she's different. Jarrod, on the other hand, is new and wants nothing to do with being weird, different, or Kate. All he wants is to belong because he could never make friends. Jarrod is a clumsy, witless, spineless jellyfish (not literally) and that really bugs Kate, even when she's trying to tell him he also has magical powers.

I thought their relationship was very heartfelt. Their characters were very believable and always made me laugh. When the time came to time travel back to the Medieval Ages, I just knew that Marianne Curley was indeed brilliant. Her writing is like the magic. She has crafted a novel in which the characters are well written, a page turning plot that kept you on your toes and beautiful settings. I was hooked throughout the whole book.

I recommend this novel to anyone fans of magic, time travel, and romance.

I rate this novel Five Stars.

Nyxen's Review of "Airhead"

Airhead by Meg Cabot
337 Pages
Point 2008

EM WATTS IS GONE.

Emerson Watts didn't even want to go to the new SoHo Stark Megastore grand opening. But someone needed to look out for her sister, Frida, whose crush, British heartthrob Gabriel Luna, would be singing and signing autographs there - along with the newly appointed Face of Stark, teen supermodel sensation Nikki Howard.

How was Em to know that disaster would strike, changing her - and life as she'd known it - forever? One bizarre accident later, and Em Watts, always the tomboy, never the party princes, is no longer herself. Literally.

Now getting her best friend, Christopher, to notice that she's actually a girl is the least of Em's problem.

But what Em's pretty sure she'll never be able to accept might just turn out to be the one thing that's going to make her dream come true...

NIKKI HOWARD IS HERE TO STAY.

SPOILERS AHEAD. READ AT OWN RISK

Now I can say I've read a Meg Cabot novel. I can't believe I've never read one of her books until now. But I'm glad I read Airehead.

Airhead is an intriguing novel with all types of elements. Em Watts is just a regular girl who is just realizing that she may be in love with her best friend. The only problem is he doesn't know she exists. Literally. After an accident at a Grand Opening, Em suddenly wakes up to find herself in a model's body. Now she has to juggle three guys, not including her best friend, a modeling career, and school.

When I first read it, I was confused. I never realized that a medical procedure would be used in this novel. I was shocked when I learned of the brain transplant. Then it got me thinking. How would I feel if I was trapped in another body, let alone a model's body? I honestly don't know but I'm glad that I read about Em's experience. Cabot has a way with words. She knows what she's doing and she does a heck of a job.

Airhead is a brilliantly written novel with so many great deatails and descriptions that you feel as if you're actually in the book. She writes about mystery, - the fact that Em can't tell anyone what has happened - love and friendship. I reccommend this book to anyone even if you're not fond of anything medical. You get a new experience with this book.

I rate this Five Stars.

Nyxen's Review of "Speak"

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
197 Pages
Paperback Platinum Edition
Speak 2006

Melinda Sordino busted an end-of-summer party by calling the cops, so her old friends won't talk to herm and people she doesn't know hate her from a distance. It's no use explaining to her parents; they've never known what her life is really like. The safest place for Melinda to be is alone, inside her own head. But even that's not safe. Because there's something she's trying not to think about, something about that night of the party that, if she admitted it and let it in, would blow her carefully constructed disguise to smithereens. And then she would have no choice. Melinda would have to speak the truth.

Spoilers Ahead. Read At Own Risk

Speak is a remarkable story that moved me in all the right direction. Anderson has a way of writing with precision that it's hard not to like her. As a debut novel, I think Anderson did a wonderful job. I've never read anything quite like this and I enjoyed every second. It tells a story of a ninth grade girl who get's raped at a party one summer and then calls the cops, causing everyone to hate her. Ever since that horrible night, Melinda hasn't had the courage to speak out because she thinks that the memories would h=just disapear if she stopped thinking about them and stopped talking.

I just loved the character Melinda. SHe's quirky, funny, and I really related to her at times. It was easy connecting to her because she just seemed so real to me. I pictured myself in her shoes and I realized I would do the same thing. She's not different, nor weird. She's merely a victim of rape, who doesn't know if her life will ever be the same.

Laurie Halse Anderson is my hero for writing this book. She tells us that no matter what happens in your life, always speak out, even if you think no one is listening because chances are someone is. If you like humor but also heart-wrenching saddness, you should read the book. It will keep you up all night.

I rate this novel Five Stars.

Nyxen's Review of "Devil's Kiss"

Devil's Kiss by Sarwat Chadda
327 Pages
Disney Hyperion Books 2009

Fifteen-year-old Billi SanGreal never meant to make history. Dragged at the age of ten into the modern-day Knights Templar by her father, the Grandmaster, Billi's the first girl ever to be a Templar warrior. Her life is a rigorous and brutal round of weapons' practice, demon killing and occult lore – and a lot of bruises. But then temptation is placed in Billi's path – an alternative to her isolated life. But temptation brings consequences. In this case – the tenth plague – the death of all first borns and so Billi must choose her destiny. And as she soon discovers, death isn't even the worst...



I bought this books a while back but I was never really interested in it until I started this blog. I read the premise and I thought "Eh, nothing special." I have no idea what I was thinking, though! I picked up this book and was immediately caught by surprise.

Sarwat Chadda writes an incredible story about a young, 15 year old girl trapped within her own family. Since she was born, Billie was meant to be apart of the modern day's Knight Templar, something she never wanted. She has been training all her life for that moment to be accepted but it something she doesn't want to be apart of. She tries desperately to get out but her dad - tall, dark, and cold-hearted - is set on her becoming a member. Not only does she have to worry about that but her long time best friend returns from Jerusalem and she is conflicted about her feelings.

This novel was just phenomenal. I read it and loved it. Chadda writes in a way that keeps you on your toes. Not only did he write from a girl's perspective but he also got the elements of a teenage girl right, even if she wasn't normal. I thought Chadda's writing was flawless and his novel is cleverly written. The plot line was understanable and the plot twists were amazing. Chadda writes about all supernatural creatures in their fiercest moments. It's up to Billie SanGreal, the incredibly talented herione, to save what is left of humanity.

Sarwat Chadda is brilliant and his book was just amazing. I can't wait for the sequel.

I rate this novel Five Stars.

Nyxen's Review of "Hush, Hush"

Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
391 Pages
Simon & Schuster 2009

A Sacred Oath
A Fallen Angel
A Forbidden Love

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

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

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

Becca Fitzpatrick's debut novel Hush, Hush was an excellent read for me. Second time I read this, I loved it even more. I caught everything I missed the first time around. It is a fast-paced, jaw-dropping, amazingly descriptive novel that kept me on my toes the whole time. I could easily say that I devoured this novel in one sitting.

Hush, Hush tells the story of Nora Grey, a regular high school student, who gets caught in between what is right and what she thinks is right. Her life is turned upside down when she meets Patch, a sexy, mysterious, bad boy with a hidden past. Nora is determined to find out the truth about him but along the way she realizes that it's hard to resist him. Along the way she encountters many problems with Patch but something still seems to pull her to him, even though she knows how bad he is for her. And when she does find out his dark truth, what will she do?

There were few things that I disliked about the novel, though. At times, I could feel Twilight elements creeping through the text. Some parts of the novel were a little too EdwardBella-ish but I got past that. Now I see why they recommend it to fans of Twilight. But I don't blame them. Nora and Patch's relationship is something else. At first, you kind of see Patch as a stalker, yet Nora is still falling for him. That's one point of the story where you're like, "What on earth are you thinking, Nora." But then you get to the middle of the book and you find out a lot about everything which just goes to show that you were wrong. I was like that.

Other than those few things I mentioned, Hush, Hush was a brilliant, well written novel from and even brillianter(it's a word for now) mind. The incredible details and amazing plot kept me going throughout the night. I was enthralled by Becca Fitzpatrick's world. I don't know where I would be if it weren't for Hush, Hush. (I am now overly obsessed with fallen angels. Thanks you very much, Becca.) But seriously, as her debut novel, I think Becca did a wonderful job and I am so glad she gave us the chance to read her story.

I rate this novel Five Stars.

Crescendo is the next installment in the Hush, Hush Series do out in the fall.

Nyxen's Review of "Wildthorn"

Wildthorn by Jane Eagland
352 Pages
Houghton Mifflin
September 2010

Louisa Cosgrove is Louisa Cosgrove-not Lucy Childs. Or, is she? A horse-drawn carriage takes her to the wrong place: Wildthorn Hall, an aslyum for the insane.

This must be an understanding.
They strip her naked, of everything-undo her whalebone corset hook by hook. They take her identity. But she is still seventeen-still Louisa Cosgrove-isn't she?

To untangle the mysterious, wretched present, she remembers the past.

I wish I were a boy.

Locked away in the dingy bowels of the hall, she feels a fire burn inside her. She remembers her cousin. She remembers Papa.

I want to be a doctor.

She is determined to escape-and only love will set her free.

Wildthorn is a beautifully written novel that had me at the edge of my seat. When I first read it, I was a bit bored. But after a couple more pages I was hooked. I read this whole thing in a night. Staying up until midnight on a school night to finish the book was a very good decision. I don't regret doing it.

Louisa Cosgrove life is turned upside down once she steps through Wildthorn. She then must find out why she was put in the aslyum and escape, before she does become crazy. I don't want to give anything away because it's not out in the US yet. Louisa finds love but from the most unlikely person. I was shocked when I found out about her lover but I also smiled because love is unexplainable with anyone. I don't want to give anything away since this book isn't out in the US but I definitely reccommend it. Jane Eagland is such an inspiration that she gets me thinking. She writes in a way that transfixes you and you can't seem to escape.

I rate Wildthorn Five Stars.

Nyxen's Review of "Shiver"

Shiver By Maggie Stiefvater

For years, Grace has watched the wolves in the woods behind her house. One yellow-eyed wolf—her wolf—is a chilling presence she can't seem to live without. Meanwhile, Sam has lived two lives: In winter, the frozen woods, the protection of the pack, and the silent company of a fearless girl. In summer, a few precious months of being human... until the cold makes him shift back again.

Now, Grace meets a yellow-eyed boy whose familiarity takes her breath away. It's her wolf. It has to be. But as winter nears, Sam must fight to stay human—or risk losing himself, and Grace, forever.
--Taken From Maggie's Website

Shiver is an outstanding novel written by one of the most amazing YA author. It was a book that I loved dearly and no one could make me put it down. I've read this twice and during those two times I absolutely did cry. Maggie Stiefvater writes so beautifully it's almost as if you were reading one giant, amazing poem.

Grace, an ordinary girl, gets dragged away into the woods by wolves at the ripe age of seven. They attack her, they bite her and it's as if she's about to die when something, or someone saves her. The only thing she remembers is a pair of bright, yellow eyes. A pair of yellow eyes that she sees on a wolf, her wolf. Throughout her life she sees her wolf, but only during the winters. During the summers, all wolves turn into humans but during the winter they change into their wolf forms because of the coldness.

When Grace is seventeen she meets her wolf, Sam. But under horrible circumstances. There's an instant connection between the two and it's love at first sight. They think they'll be together forever but winter is nearing and this could be Sam's last year as a wolf.

Maggie is one for the books. She's an author who I will remember forever. Her plot is wonderful. She writes with such majestic intellect that it's hard to stray away from the book. Her characters are so dynamic that I could relate to at least two. I felt what they were feeling and I saw the story through my eyes, especially the supporting characters. My favorite part was reading about the settings because the were so descriptive and filled with plenty of beautiful detail. I fell in love with this book almost immediately.

I rate this Five Stars all around.