Synchronized Reading: November 2013

Thursday, November 28, 2013

Pawn by Aimee Carter

YOU CAN BE A VII. IF YOU GIVE UP EVERYTHING.
For Kitty Doe, it seems like an easy choice. She can either spend her life as a III in misery, looked down upon by the higher ranks and forced to leave the people she loves, or she can become a VII and join the most powerful family in the country.
If she says yes, Kitty will be Masked—surgically transformed into Lila Hart, the Prime Minister's niece, who died under mysterious circumstances. As a member of the Hart family, she will be famous. She will be adored. And for the first time, she will matter.
There's only one catch. She must also stop the rebellion that Lila secretly fostered, the same one that got her killed …and one Kitty believes in. Faced with threats, conspiracies and a life that's not her own, she must decide which path to choose—and learn how to become more than a pawn in a twisted game she's only beginning to understand.

Going into Pawn, I believe I had a bit of a high expectation because of how much I enjoyed the author's other series. Pawn was let down for me. I just couldn't connect with the story or the characters. The story was interesting, yes, I will definitely give it that and it was probably the reason why I continued to read it, but I just couldn't connect with it. The part I found the most intriguing was when Kitty was Masked. I found it kind of fascinating and was curious to see where the story would go from there. The raking system was also very interesting to read about. Being ranked from a I to VII was pretty interesting. I wish we could have learned about the other parts of the country instead of just the area that Kitty was from. It would have been nice to see. And by the end of the book, I sort of liked Knox. I thought his character was cute and was hoping for a bit more there, but that really didn't happen.

Wishlist Wednesday (60): Forget Me

Wishlist Wednesday is a book blog hop where we will post about one book per week that has been on our wishlist for some time, or just added (it's entirely up to you), that we can't wait to get off the wishlist and onto our wonderful shelves.
Hosted by: Pen to Paper

Forget Me
by K.A. Harrington
Releases |August 14th 2014 by Penguin|
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Two names. One face. A dangerous secret exposed.
Morgan never minded her boyfriend Flynn’s dark and private nature. She found it mysterious and alluring. But now he’s dead, and she can’t move forward. On the three-month anniversary of Flynn’s death, Morgan uploads her only photo of him to the social media site FriendShare to get some closure, but she’s shocked when the facial recognition software suggests she tag him as Evan Murphy. She’s never heard of Evan, but a quick search tells her that he lives in a nearby town and looks exactly like Flynn. Same eyes, nose, jawline. Only this boy is very much alive.
Digging through layers of secrets, Morgan questions everything she thought she knew about her town, her boyfriend, and even her parents’ involvement in this massive web of lies. K. A. Harrington’s superb plotting and breakneck pacing will keep readers turning each tension-filled page in a race to the stunning conclusion

Why I'm Wishing...
This sounds pretty good. I definitely want to give it a try because I love a mystery :)

Monday, November 25, 2013

Through the Ever Night by Veronica Rossi

Through the Ever Night
(Under the Never Sky, #2)
by Veronica Rossi
Released |January 8th 2013 by HarperCollins|
Edition |Hardback, 341 pages|
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It's been months since Aria learned of her mother's death.
Months since Perry became Blood Lord of the Tides, and months since Aria last saw him.
Now Aria and Perry are about to be reunited. It's a moment they've been longing for with countless expectations. And it's a moment that lives up to all of them. At least, at first.
Then it slips away. The Tides don't take kindly to former Dwellers like Aria. And the tribe is swirling out of Perry's control. With the Aether storms worsening every day, the only remaining hope for peace and safety is the Still Blue. But does this haven truly exist?
Threatened by false friends and powerful temptations, Aria and Perry wonder, Can their love survive through the ever night?
In this second book in her spellbinding Under the Never Sky trilogy, Veronica Rossi combines fantasy and sci-fi elements to create a captivating adventure-and a love story as perilous as it is unforgettable

I really enjoyed Through the Ever Night :) I don't know why I've been putting off reading it for so long, but I'm so glad that I finally read it! I was hoping my library would get the audio of it since I read Under the Never Sky in audio form, but hey, it doesn't matter. I loved being back in this interesting world and reconnecting with all the amazing characters. I was pretty amazed at how easily it was for me to dive into the story because lately I've not been able to really get fully into a book until about a quarter of the way in. The story was really good and I'm can't wait to start the next book to see how everything turns out.

Book Hauling It Up (75)

Hey Everyone :)

I hope everyone has had a great week!
And also enjoy your weekend.
I would love to check out your hauls as well :)

Library - (Audio)

Ebooks Bought

I really don't know why I got Beautiful Nightmare, but will see. I didn't like the first two, but I feel the need to finish out the series.

Thursday, November 21, 2013

Darkness Awakened by Katie Reus

Years ago he ended things between them to protect her…
As leader of one of the fiercest werewolf packs in the south, Finn Stavros is in full battle mode 24/7. He has no choice—he’s one of the few beings strong enough to fight the Akkadian demons, whose mysterious escape from hell threatens the entire world. With the battle turning bloodier by the second, Finn is ready for anything…until his vampire long lost love shows up on his doorstep in desperate need of his help, sending his heart into a tailspin. He agrees to help her, unaware that she carries a shocking secret that will turn his life upside down.
This time, he’s not letting her go…
Vampire Lyra Marius curses the day she met Finn. The ruthless werewolf promised to love her forever, but he rejected her instead—before she could share her life altering news. Pregnant, kicked out of her coven, and cast aside by the love of her life, Lyra struggled to raise their rare shifter-vampire daughter Vega alone among humans. When the 16-year-old is kidnapped and used to fulfill a frightening prophecy, Lyra swallows her pride and turns to Finn for help. But how long can she fight her feelings for him and keep him from guessing the truth about who Vega really is? As they race against the clock to save their daughter, they must defeat the lethal threat imposed by demons infiltrating the human world and a hell gate that could not only reveal their existence to mankind, but destroy the world in the process.

Darkness was a very fast paced read that had some very exciting elements to it. It's been quite awhile since I've read a book that involved shifters and vamps, especially with the two together. It was nice to be back on that side of things since I am definitely a shifter fan. This was a fun read. The pacing was fast, but you get some pretty awesome characters to back it up. I would recommend this to those who like these kind of stories.

Wishlist Wednesday (59): Captivate

Captivate
by Vanessa Garden
Releases |January 1st 2014 by Harlequin TEEN|
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In a glittering underwater world, nothing is as it seems...
For the past twelve months since her parents’ death, seventeen-year-old Miranda Sun has harboured a dark secret — a secret that has strained the close relationship she once shared with her older sister, Lauren. In an effort to repair this broken bond, Miranda’s grandparents whisk the siblings away on a secluded beach holiday. Except before Miranda gets a chance to confess her life-changing secret, she’s dragged underwater by a mysterious stranger while taking a midnight swim.
Awakening days later, Miranda discovers that she’s being held captive in a glittering underwater city by an arrogant young man named Marko...the King of this underwater civilisation.
Nineteen-year-old Marko intends to marry Miranda in order to keep his crown from falling into the sinister clutches of his half-brother, Damir. There’s only one problem. Miranda is desperate to return home to right things with her sister and she wants nothing to do with Marko. Trying to secure her freedom, Miranda quickly forms an alliance with Robbie — Marko’s personal guard. However, she soon discovers that even underwater, people are hiding dangerous secrets...

Why I'm Wishing...
I haven't read a book like this in quite awhile and I only just found out about this yesterday. I'm intrigued :) I'd definitely like to know what secret she's desperately trying to tell her sister.

Monday, November 18, 2013

Sentinel by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Sentinel
(Covenant, #5)
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Released |November 2nd 2013 by Spencer Hill Press|
Edition |ebook|
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It's a beautiful day for a war.
As the mortal world slowly slips into chaos of the godly kind, Alexandria Andros must overcome a stunning defeat that has left her shaken and in doubt of their ability to end this war once and for all.
And with all the obstacles between Alex and her happily-ever-after with the swoonworthy Aiden St. Delphi, they must now trust a deadly foe as they travel deep into the Underworld to release one of the most dangerous gods of all time.
In the stunning, action-packed climax to the bestselling Covenant series, Alex must face a terrible choice: the destruction of everything and everyone she holds dear… or the end of herself.

I must say that out of all the books in this Covenant series, this is my least favorite even though I still enjoyed it. Now don't get me wrong, even though I said it was my least favorite, I still thought the book was good. It had some enjoyable moments, but as a final book, I thought it could have been better. I'm glad I started to the series and I'm definitely sad to see it end. This installment had some action packed moments and I was dying to know how things would end. I still would recommend this series because it is a favorite of mine. I can't wait to see what Armentrout has in store for us next.

The Naturals by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Seventeen-year-old Cassie is a natural at reading people. Piecing together the tiniest details, she can tell you who you are and what you want. But it’s not a skill that she’s ever taken seriously. That is, until the FBI come knocking: they’ve begun a classified program that uses exceptional teenagers to crack infamous cold cases, and they need Cassie.
What Cassie doesn’t realize is that there’s more at risk than a few unsolved homicides— especially when she’s sent to live with a group of teens whose gifts are as unusual as her own.
Sarcastic, privileged Michael has a knack for reading emotions, which he uses to get inside Cassie’s head—and under her skin. Brooding Dean shares Cassie’s gift for profiling, but keeps her at arm’s length.
Soon, it becomes clear that no one in the Naturals program is what they seem. And when a new killer strikes, danger looms closer than Cassie could ever have imagined. Caught in a lethal game of cat and mouse with a killer, the Naturals are going to have to use all of their gifts just to survive.

I was so glad for the opportunity to review The Naturals through Netgalley because Jennifer Lynn Barnes is one of my go to authors. Every single book I've read by this author has not disappointed me and this book was no exception. Even though I was excited to read this book, I really didn't know what to expect. The more and more I read, the more and more I found myself being intrigued with the characters and the story line. Each character had their own unique talent that kept me engrossed in the story. And the mystery aspect of the book was awesome. I thought I knew who was doing all the killing, but my thoughts turn out to be wrong! That was the best part :)

Wishlist Wednesday (58): Savage Drift

Savage Drift
(Monument 14, #3)
by Emmy Laybourne
Releases |May 6th 2014 by Feiwel & Friends|
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The stunningly fierce conclusion to Emmy Laybourne's Monument 14 trilogy.
The survivors of the Monument 14 have finally made it to the safety of a Canadian refugee camp. Dean and Alex are cautiously starting to hope that a happy ending might be possible.
But for Josie, separated from the group and trapped in a brutal prison camp for exposed Type Os, things have gone from bad to worse. Traumatized by her experiences, she has given up all hope of rescue or safety.
Meanwhile, scared by the government's unusual interest in her pregnancy, Astrid (with her two protectors, Dean and Jake in tow) joins Niko on his desperate quest to be reunited with his lost love Josie.
Author Emmy Laybourne reaches new heights of tension and romance in this action-packed conclusion to the Monument 14 trilogy

Why I'm Wishing...
I have been enjoying this trilogy so far and I'm definitely curious to see how things will wrap up in this final book. I really excited for it :)

Other Books in the Series

Monday, November 11, 2013

Twisted by Laurie Halse Anderson

Twisted
by Laurie Halse Anderson
Released |March 20th 2007 by Viking Juvenile|
Edition |Audio|
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High school senior Tyler Miller used to be the kind of guy who faded into the background—average student, average looks, average dysfunctional family. But since he got busted for doing graffiti on the school, and spent the summer doing outdoor work to pay for it, he stands out like you wouldn’t believe. His new physique attracts the attention of queen bee Bethany Milbury, who just so happens to be his father’s boss’s daughter, the sister of his biggest enemy—and Tyler’s secret crush. And that sets off a string of events and changes that have Tyler questioning his place in the school, in his family, and in the world.
In Twisted, the acclaimed Laurie Halse Anderson tackles a very controversial subject: what it means to be a man today. Fans and new readers alike will be captured by Tyler’s pitch perfect, funny voice, the surprising narrative arc, and the thoughtful moral dilemmas that are at the heart of all of the author’s award-winning, widely read work.

I've been wanting to read Twisted for a long time now and when I saw the audio book at the library I couldn't pass it up. The book was really interesting and I like the realistic feel that it had to it. I like books that feel realistic and I could definitely relate to the family issues that Tyler was experiencing. I think the author did a great drama of portraying all the issues of emotional and verbal abuse in the within a household on all sides. You could see it with the kids and also the parents and how it was taking it's tole.

Book Hauling It Up (74)

Hey Everyone,

I hope you guys have had a great week!
I swear this year is passing by so fast. I mean, we are already getting closer and closer to December.
WTH!
But yeah (lol), don't forget to leave your links :)

For Review (Edelweiss and Netgalley)

Bought

Already read Sentinel.

Thursday, November 7, 2013

The House of Hades by Rick Riordan

The House of Hades
(Heroes of Olympus, #4)
by Rick Riordan
Released |October 8th 2013 by Hyperion Books|
Edition |Hardback, 583 pages|
Add to Goodreads

At the conclusion of The Mark of Athena, Annabeth and Percy tumble into a pit leading straight to the Underworld. The other five demigods have to put aside their grief and follow Percy’s instructions to find the mortal side of the Doors of Death. If they can fight their way through the Gaea’s forces, and Percy and Annabeth can survive the House of Hades, then the Seven will be able to seal the Doors both sides and prevent the giants from raising Gaea. But, Leo wonders, if the Doors are sealed, how will Percy and Annabeth be able to escape?
They have no choice. If the demigods don’t succeed, Gaea’s armies will never die. They have no time. In about a month, the Romans will march on Camp Half-Blood. The stakes are higher than ever in this adventure that dives into the depths of Tartarus.

I must say that Riordan has done it again. It's been about two weeks since I've read the book, but I'm hoping I am able to review this the way I want. I usually review books right after I read them, but I kind of forgot with this and I don't know how I did. This book, just like all the others, was very fun and adventurous. We also get multiple pov's and didn't have any problems with them. There are characters that I like more than others, but I did enjoy reading from each of the different characters povs. There was also some very great character development within the book that I really enjoyed. Definitely, definitely enjoyed this book and thought it was amazing and I highly recommend the series!

Wishlist Wednesday (57): Illusive

Illusive
by Emily Lloyd-Jones
Released |July 15th 2014 by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers|
Add to Goodeads

When the MK virus swept across the planet, a vaccine was created to stop the epidemic, but it came with some unexpected side effects. A small percentage of the population developed superhero-like powers. Seventeen-year-old Ciere Giba has the handy ability to change her appearance at will. She’s what’s known as an illusionist… She’s also a thief.
After a robbery goes awry, Ciere teams up with a group of fellow super-powered criminals on another job that most would consider too reckless. The formula for the vaccine that gave them their abilities was supposedly destroyed years ago. But what if it wasn’t? The lines between good and bad, us and them, freedom and entrapment are blurred as Ciere and the rest of her crew become embroiled in a deadly race against the government that could cost them their lives.

Why I'm Wishing...
I definitely like the sounds of this and saw the cover on pinterest and had to check it out. I would like to give it a try sometime.

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

October 2013 Wrap Up/November 2013 TBR

Hey Everyone,

I haven't done a wrap up post in a few months. I haven't been reading al that much lately. I've had so much going on, but I'm slowly starting to get back into the groove of things. I hope everyone has a good month in October and hopefully a good one in November. I'm hoping to get back to my average for November :) *Crossing my fingers!*

October Wrap Up

Hereafter - 3.5 stars - Netgalley - review

The Iron Traitor - 5 stars - Netgalley - review

Black Heart - 4 stars - audio - review

House of Hades - 5 stars - review to come

Twisted - 3.5 stars - audio - review to come

November TBR

I've been meaning to read Through the Evernight and Mist for a while now,.

Already read The Dollhouse Asylum (review was posted yesterday) and The Naturals which was very good!

Monday, November 4, 2013

The Dollhouse Asylum by Mary Gray

A virus that had once been contained has returned, and soon no place will be left untouched by its destruction. But when Cheyenne wakes up in Elysian Fields--a subdivision cut off from the world and its monster-creating virus--she is thrilled to have a chance at survival.
At first, Elysian Fields,with its beautiful houses and manicured lawns, is perfect. Teo Richardson, the older man who stole Cheyenne's heart, built it so they could be together. But when Teo tells Cheyenne there are tests that she and seven other couples must pass to be worthy of salvation, Cheyenne begins to question the perfection of his world.
The people they were before are gone. Cheyenne is now "Persephone," and each couple has been re-named to reflect the most tragic romances ever told. Everyone is fighting to pass the test, to remain in Elysian Fields. Teo dresses them up, tells them when to move and how to act, and in order to pass the test, they must play along.
If they play it right, then they'll be safe.
But if they play it wrong, they'll die.

The Dollhouse Asylum was a very different read for me. It was weird, but intriguing all at the same time. Throughout the book I had very mixed feelings on it and just didn't know what to expect next. That was a good thing and a bad thing. I was confused at times, but I also kind of liked that unexpected feeling. It took me a while to get into the story. The characters weren't really the kind that I liked and I hated Teo from the very beginning. He was extremely weird and vague and he always spoke in riddles. And Cheyenne was very weak minded in the beginning and it became a bit of an annoyance. But as the book progress, she slowly started to come to terms with a few things and I started to like her a little bit by the end of the book.

Book Hauling It Up (73)

Hey Everyone :)

Hope everyone has had a great week!
Don't forget to leave your links. I'd love to stop by :)

For Review

Both from Netgalley

From Edelweiss

From the publisher

Library

I enjoyed it (audio)

Bought

Already had Revealed as an ebook (got for my bday), I have all the other books as hardbacks so it didn't feel right not to have it for my shelf lol And I can't wait t read Allegiant!