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 "Elixir"

Elixir by Hilary Duff
330 Pages
Simon & Schuster 2010

A SOUL MATE FOR LIFE...OR DEATH.

Seventeen-year-old Clea Raymond has felt the glare of the spotlight her entire life. The daughter of a renowned surgeon and a prominent politician, she has become a talented photojournalist who takes refuge in a world that allows her to travel to many exotic place. But after Clea's father disappears while on a humanitarian mission, Clea begins to notice eerie, shadowy images in her photos of a strange an beautiful young man-a man she has never seen before.

When fate brings Clea and this man together, she is stunned by the immediate and powerful connection she feels with him. A they grow closer, they are drawn deep into the mystery behind her father's disappearance, and they discover the centuries-old truth behind their intense bond. Torn by a dangerous love triangle and haunted by a powerful secret that holds their fates, together they race against time to unravel their pasts in order to save their lives-and their futures.

Let me just say: Hooray for this being my first review of 2011!

Elixir was a book I wanted to read almost immediately. And yes, maybe it was only because of Hilary Duff. I was very skeptical at first to read it though, because when I picture celebrities I don't see them writing. I'm still a little on the 'eh' side if Hilary actually wrote this book. But enough about that.

I want to talk about the cover. I think it's gorgeous! The font is amazing even if it looks plain and it's purple. The iris gives it the right touch. It is a beautiful looking flower, and one of my favorites.

Elixir starts off with the main character, Clea, out dancing in Paris with her best friend. They're on vacation and everything isn't going great for Clea. After her father dies, her life just isn't the same. She doesn't relate to her mom at all and all she has are her two best friends.

This novel is all about life, adventure, and figuring out who you really are, and possibly a love interest along the way. As much as I loved this book, I didn't really like the main character. There was just something about her that seemed off.

The plot takes off right from the beginning. After her vacation in Paris, Clea gets a job in the place her father disappeared from. Everything is filled with twists and turns. I never realized there was going to be a paranormal aspect to it and I just went wild for it!

The fact that this novel talked about soul mates, though, was just something I had to get used too. I've read plenty of books with reincarnation and soul mates so I thought this would end up the same. But it didn't, and i was quite glad.

Overall, this book was very good. Besides some aspects of it which I diidn't like I think some of you would like it! For this, it all depends on the reader.

I rate this book Four Stars.

(I realized this wasn't a very well written review. Forgive me?)

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 "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 "Crescendo"

Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick
427 Pages
Simon & Schuster 2010

Nora Grey should have known her life was far from perfect. Even though her boyfriend, Patch, also happens to be her literal guardian angel (who, despite the title, is far from angelic), things are not looking up. First there is summer school and facing the nightmare of her enemy Marcie Miller as her lab partner. Then patch starts to pull away with no explanation. And finally, she is having nightmares and visions about her father's murder.

As Nora chooses to ignore her better instincts and delves deeper into the mystery of her father's death, she also begins whether her Nephilim bloodline had something to do with it, which casts more doubt on her relationship (or lack thereof) with Patch. Does he know more than he lets on? Why does he always seem to be standing in front of the answers she is looking for? And if he really is her guardian angel, why is her life always in danger?

The sequel to Becca Fitzpatrick's debut novel starts off with a bang. You literally get sucked into the story and want to continue it, straight through. I was shocked, amazed, and astounded and the story unfolding before me.

I really think this book was an amazing novel and Patch was one of my favorite characters this time. Nora, on the hand, sort of annoyed me. At some points she reminded me too much of Bella in New Moon. If you read that then you know what I'm talking about. Nora was a bit reckless most of the time and I honestly didn't know what was going through her head. Well, technically I did, but you know what I mean. Nora didn't appeal to me as a main character in this one, and that's saying something because I usually love female characters.

And in this one, you'll love Patch even more. At first you'll think to yourself, "What the hell are you doing?" but then you really see him. I really enjoyed reading about him regardless.

The plot was really unique and I loved every second of it. I really think Becca Fitzpatrick wrote an amazing novel, but did it top Hush, Hush? I say you be the judge of that.

I rate this novel Four Stars.

Nyxen's Review of "Stargazer"

Stargazer by Claudia Gray
329 Pages
HarperTeen 2009

THE VAMPIRE IN ME WAS CLOSER TO THE SURFACE...

Evernight Academy: an exclusive boarding school for the most beautiful, dangerous, students of all-vampires. Bianca, born to two vampires, has always been told her destiny is to become one of them.

But Bianca fell in love with Lucas-a vampire hunter sworn to destroy her kind. They were torn apart when hiss true identity was revealed, forcing him to flee the school.

Although they may be separated, Bianca and Lucas will not give each other up. She will risk anything for the chance to see him again, even if it means coming face-to-face with the vampire hunters of Black Cross-or deceiving the powerful vampires of Evernight. Bianca's secrets will force her to live a life of lies.

Yet Bianca isn't the only one keeping secrets. When Evernight is attacked by an evil force that seems to target her, she discovers the truth she thought she knew is only the beginning. . . .

Again, I did not only buy this series because of the main character's name. I actually happen to like this series.

Stargazer picks up a couple months after Evernight. It's the beginning of a new school year at Evernight Academy and Bianca is not excited for two reasons. One, she has see Mrs. Bethany again for a whole year and two, Lucas is not attending the school anymore. She's sad, distraught and is constantly thinking about him.

I understand that Bianca loves Lucas but that was all she could think about throughout the entire novel, or almost entire novel. I think Bianca could have done a lot more if she stopped thinking about him the way she did. It was just excessive.

Besides that small thing, I think Claudia Gray did a wonderful job at capturing how Bianca felt in her adventure to survive Evernight Academy and all weird things happening there. There was more to Stargazer than there was in Evernight. The plot was intense with more twists and turns after every page and the characters became more well-developed. Gray's writing flowed magically and smoother in this one. If that makes sense.

My favorite part, of maybe the entire series, would probably be Balthazar. In this novel you get to see more of Bathlazar, his background, his past and what exactly makes him, him. Balthazar would probably be my favorite character out of the rest. He sexy, sweet, smart and everything you would want in a man. I sort of wished Bianca ended up with him by the end of the novel.

Speaking of which, the end of the novel was intense! I was literally holding my breath through the whole thing, scared as to what the outcome would be. Now, even though I wasn't a fan of Bianca constantly thinking about Lucas I still loved how she becomes overjoyed whenever the do see each other. And I was glad that Bianca got to see Lucas at the end.

Overall, I thought this novel was an excellent read, better than the first and I reccomend this to anyone who is in need of a paranormal, forbidden love story.

I rate this Four 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 "Ascendant"

Ascendant by Diana Peterfreund
392 Pages
HarperTeen September 28, 2010

Astrid Llewelyn is now a fully trained unicorn hunter, but she's learning that she can't solve all her problems with a bow and arrow. So when she's given the opportunity to leave the Cloisters and go to France to put her skills to use discovering the Remedy, Astrid leaps at the chance. Finally, she can have exactly what shhe wants - or can she? Soon Astrid begins to questtion everything she thought she believed: her love for Giovannie, her loyalty to the CLoisters, and - most of all - her duty as a hunter. Should Astrid be saving the world from killer unicorns, or saving the unicorns from the world?

Before I start with this review I just want to thank Waste Paper Prose (Susan) for letting me participate in this Mini Blog Tour.

Ascendant really took me by surprise. As in I loved it very much. I was hesitant at first to continue reading it. I mean, it's a novel about unicorn hunters who hunt down vicious unicorns. That really brought my spirits down but I loved it at the same time.

If you want a novel that will suck you in with action, adventure and a little unicorn killing then Ascendant is the book for you! Diana Peterfreund takes on the ride of a lifetime with the sequel to Rampant. Astrid is back with even more drama in her life. I was really intrigued by this novel and thoroughly enjoyed it.

At first, it took me awhile to get into the story. The beginning of the novel was too slow for me but it gradually picked up.

For fans of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Ascendant make you think and jump in your seat. :D

I rate this novel Four Stars.

Nyxen's Review of "Evernight"

Evernight by Claudia Gray
352 Pages
HarperTeen

BIANCA WANTS TO ESCAPE.

At the eerily Gothic Evernight Academy, the other students are sleek, smart, and almost predatory. Bianca knows she doesn't fit in.

When she meets handsome, brooding Lucas, he warns her to be careful - even when it comes to caring about him. But the connection between them can't be denied. Bianca will risk anything to be with Lucas, but dark secrets are fated to tear them apart... and to make Bianca question everything she's ever believed.

SPOILERS AHEAD. READ AT OWN RISK.

I will be bluntly honest. I picked this book up for one reason and one reason only, the name. Seriously, you don't read any books with the name Bianca in it and since it's my name too I thought, "I must buy this immediately!" And I think my instincts told me right.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book immensely. Bahaha, look at me trying to sound smart. That sentence made no sense whatsoever.

When you pick up this book, and look at the cover, you can automatically tell it's a vampire novel. Maybe it was just me but that's what I thought. And the strangest thing is you don't find out it's about vampires until the end of chapter seven page 141. (I just looked that up right now. :P) At first, I didn't know what was going on but I loved how Claudia Gray kept me off of my seat through it all. You go through Bianca's life which is filled with twists and turns and unexplainable things. Gray's way of interpreting her life is really amazing and written magically.

The only thing that bugged me was Bianca, in a way. I guess she's just another vampire heroine who falls in love to quickly for her own good. When she first meets Lucas Ross at the beginning of the story, I could quickly tell she was attracted to him. And that's okay but I just didn't like that she yearned for him, that he was all she could think about. I think her expectations for him are way too high in the relationship category. And as much as I enjoyed Bianca and Lucas together, I felt that she didn't need to think about him almost 24/7. But don't worry! She doesn't actually only talk about him. I still recommend this book to anyone who loves vampires and love. Oh, and did I mention it has hints of being a forbiden love?

I rate this Four 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 "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 "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 "Wicked Lovely"

Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr
328 Pages
Harper Teen 2007

Rule #3: Don't stare at invisible faeries.
Aislinn has always seen faeries. Powerful and dangerous, they walk hidden in the mortal world. Aislinn fears their cruelty - especially if they learn of her Sight - and wishes she were as blind to their presence as other teens.

Rule #2: Don't speak to invisible faeries.
Now faeries are stalking her. One of tthem, Keenan, who is equal parts terrifying and alluring, is trying to talk to her, asking questions Aislinn is afraid to answer.

Rule #1: Don't ever attract their attention.
But it's too late. Keenan is the Summer King, who has sought his queen for nine centuries. Without her, summer itself will perish. he is determined that Aislinn will become the Summer Queen at any cost - regardless of her plans or desires.

Suddenly none of the rules that have kept Aislinn safe are working anymore, and everything is on the line: her freedom; her best friend, Seth; her life; everything.
Faery intrigue, mortal love, and the clash of antient rules and modern expectations swirl together in Melissa Marr's stunning twenty-first century faery tale.

Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr was one of the most unique books I have ever read. Aislinn, the main character, is a very strong-willed, stubborn teenage girl but I really liked her. I really related to "Ash"- her nickname - in many ways. The plot was written in an outstanding manner that everything seemed to flow perfectly on the page. The descriptions were also written beautifully and I thought I was actually living in Ash's world. Everything about this book was amazing.

Aislinn has lived her whole life by three rules. Her grandmother made sure follow them. But once the fey start taking interest in her, Aislinn's world is thrown upside down. Nothing in her life is the same, especially when the Summer King, Kennan, takes a liking in her: telling her she's his Summer Queen. Aislinn doesn't believe it, but she knows it's true deep down. She just doesn't want any part of the faery world because of Seth, her kind-of-beau. But the world is in danger from the Winter Queen and the only way to stop her is if the Summer King and Summer Queen unite - if Aislinn accepts the thrown to bring back Summer. But will Aislinn do it if it means losing her Grandmother and Seth?

That is my summary of the book in only so many words. It really is a great novel. My favorite character was Seth, despite him being a guy. He seemed like such a tough guy but when with Aislinn, anyone could tell he was very sweet and sensitive and vulnerable. I really loved Seth and Ash as a couple so when Keenan comes in I really wanted to strangle him for getting in the way. I honestly did get annoyed by him and I didn't succumb to his sexiness.

Even though I really enjoyed this novel, there was something missing in it, for me. I expected something bigger at the end. I wanted at least a tragefy. Don't get me wrong, I loved that it was a happy ending but I wanted someone to die - someone that wasn't the antagonist. I also never understood where Aislinn's friends went. One chapter they were there and the next *Poof* they were gone. Vanished from thin air...or page. And it also took me a long time to read this book. I don't know why but I wasn't as captivated as the other books I read. Other than that, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I will definietly be reaading the other novels in the series, though.

I rate this book Four 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.

Nyxen's Review of Witch & Wizard

Witch and Wizard By James Patterson and Gabrielle Charbonnet

EVERYTHING. CHANGES. NOW.

Imagine you wake up and the world around you-life as you know it-has changed in an instant. That's what has happened to Whit Allgood and his sister, Whisty. They went to sleep as normal teenagers, and woke up as wanted criminals. Accused of holding incredible powers they'd never dreamed possible. And now, just how different they are-special, even-if just beginning to be revealed in a strange new world.

It begins...now.
-From Barnes and Noble Website

I bought this book back in December when it was just coming out. I saw the commercial which mentioned Harry Potter and it immediately sparked my interest. Anything that revolves around Harry Potter, I must have. So, I bought it but never read it. I put it in my bookshelf and just left it. It wasn't until the beginning of this week when I decided to read it. I was curious as to what would happen. I have never read anything of James Patterson but I was anticipating some great things.

Once you open the first page, it's as if your in a trance and can't get out of it. From the very beginning, Whit and Wisty are caught in between what they thought they knew and the New Order. Whit and Wisty are whisked - I swear I won't use anymore 'W' words - away from the comfort of their beds in the middle of the night by the New Order. The New Order, to me, is the beginning of a new government turning into a Totalitarian society. They are takin the kids away from their parents and then are locked away in a prison until they are executed. Some of these kids aren't even teenagers yet. Whit and Wisty are taken away from their parents but are charged on the account of being a witch and a wizard. Whit and Wisty have no clue what the New Order is talking about. They are sent to prison, where it seems only kids reside, until they have to see The One Who Judges.

After being put to execution, Whit and Wisty try to escape. With the help of Whit's ghost girlfriend, Celia, they manage to escape the day before their execution. During their time in prison, Whit and Wisty learn that they indeed are a veery powerful witch and wizard. With no control over their magic just yet, they run for their lives and hope for the best. Escaping from the prison was just part of the novel. The remainder of the book shows us that The One Who Is The One - the man in charge of everyone and everything - wants something from Whit and Wisty but all they want to do it try and find their mom and dad. With the help of other children escapees, Whit and Wisty go on a journey to not only save their mom and dad but the rest of the children that are getting dragged away into a prison.

But you should know, nothing is ever quite that simple. With being the two most powerful beings, Whit and Wisty reach the Wanted list from the New Order. Their magic is slowly rreaching its high point but is that enough to save everything they once loved but is now lost? Not only that, but they find out about prophecies from The One Who Is The One involving them. One of them includes Whit and Wisty being executed. So, was escaping from the prison just a huge waste of time? Whit and Wisty don't think so. They want to put a stop to this totalitarian society once an for all.

I just loved every second of this book. I didn't read it in one sitting because I wanted to make it last. James Patterson and Gabrielle Charbonnet keep the story line moving with the right dialouge and perfect descriptions. The action never ceases to amaze me and I was glad that I had finally read it. One thing that irked me was the way that it had ended. It was an open ending for a sequel, which is good, but a ton of things weren't explained. And I really don't want to wait until the sequel comes out. If there will ever be one.

All in all, I rate it Five Stars.