Book Review: Vampire Shift (Kiera Hudson #1)

Vampire Shift (Kiera Hudson #1) by Tim O'Rourke

Format: e-book
Publisher: Createspace
Published: 6th June 2011
Pages: 251
Main Characters: Kiera, Luke, Potter, Murphy
Date Started: 21st June 2012
Date Finished: 27th June 2012
Rating Given: ****

Blurb from Goodreads:

When twenty-year-old police recruit Kiera Hudson is posted to the remote town of The Ragged Cove, her life is changed forever. Investigating a series of horrific murders, grave desecrations and missing persons, with her unique ability of ‘seeing’, Kiera soon realises her life is in danger.

But when Kiera is crewed with Police officer Luke Bishop, not only is her mind and heart opened to a terrifying new world, she comes to suspect that Luke might be involved in the killings.

In a race against time to unearth the truth, Kiera must discover the identity of who or what is behind the gruesome deaths on the ‘Vampire Shift’.

This book had been on my wishlist for awhile and then the author got in touch with me and asked if I wanted to review his book for him which I obviously jumped at the chance and I'm glad I did.

The cover is actually what made me want to read this book as I love it so much so that I will have to get my hands on a hardcopy so it can sit on my shelf. I love that the face takes up all the cover space yet it still looks interesting. The reason why it looks so interesting to me is the blood running from her eye it looks so effective against the pale skin. I love the colours that have been used epesially the purple from the hair and the golden eye they are so eye catching.

This is my first book I have read by Tim O'Rourke and it most definitely won't be the last. I loved the different take on the vampire myth after reading pleanty of them I didn't think there could even be a different take on them but O'Rourke deffinitely did. I'm not usually one for creepy books but O'Rourke has changed my mind as it was creepy but I was so intrigued by everything that was happening that I didn't care. The only thing about his writing that did put me off was towards the end it would seem Kiera had flashbacks to murder scene's that she had seen earlier in the book. The reason I didn't like that was because it seemed like something a film would do but just didn't make sense in this book.

There was so much going on in this book that kept me gripped throughout the book as I love a book that can have so much going on but not overwelming me. There was scene's that had me on the edge of my seat and then smiling along with it in the next. I loved that I never knew what was going to happen next it makes a refreshing change.

Kiera was a great female character as she was strong, independant, smart but also she had a softer side to her that made me warm to her. Kiera is able to see things that not everyone else notices which I am looking forward to finding out the reason behind this in the coming books. The rest of the characters I would either love or hate at one point or another as like Kiera I never quite knew who to trust. What I didn't like though was the connection between Kiera and Luke it just seemed a bit forced and rushed I just didn't believe it.

Overall a highly gripping story and would recommend anyone who likes vampire stories to give this book a try.

Book Cover: Nightshade

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

While looking for this weeks cover to talk about I thought I would look through the books that I have actually read which is where I found Nightshade. Although I didn't like the book enough to carry on with the series I loved this cover. While looking at Goodreads I found there was so many different covers for this book but this one has to be my favourite I think it's the American hardback version (plase let me know if I'm wrong).

This cover kind of reminds me of the Wicked Lovely book cover (although if I remember rightly this book is about wolves not faieries). If I was to pick a favourite out of the two books I would actually say Nightshade is my faourite and here's me thinking Wicked Lovely was one of my favourite covers. I think the reason why I like this one more is the lighter colours as they seem more eye catching. I love the little pop of yellow in the eye as well as a pop of red too all these colours work really well together.

I love the simplicity of the title but I would have prefered it to be a bit bigger as it seems to get lost with eveerything else that is going on in the cover. I do like the trialing blood from the title as with the font being small the trial of blood amonst the purple makes the title stand out that bit more than it would have.

I actually can't remember much of this book any more as it was a while since I read it but looking at this cover makes me want to give it another try just so I can have it on my bookshelf. I'm not sure if it ties in with the actual story apart from I think the lead character's name is Calla but for the first ime I don't care I love the cover and the other versions that do tie in with the story I don't actually like.

Teaser Tuesday #28

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along!




My teasers:

Dreamless by Josephine Angelini

He didn't have to finish his thought aloud. She knew he was talking about the two of them. Tears started to heat up Helen's eyes. Helen knew she couldn't get emotional in front of him or she would truly lose it. Before she could start crying, she jumped into the night sky and flew home. - Page 142 (Quote may differ in the final copy as this is an ARC)

Not sure about this book as loads of things are happening but I'm not sure I understand what actually is going on.

       Vampire Shift by Tim O'Rourke

"You'll be fine," He said from the darkness. "Just some cuts and bruises. You were in a nasty car crash."
"It was a car crash?" I mumbled, consciousness fading again.
"There was a vamp - "
"Shhh," he said, moving away. "We can talk about it tomorrow." - Page 79

I am really enjoying this book as there's loads of mystery but I think things are going to start to be explained.

It's Monday What Are You Reading? #35

It's Monday What Are You Reading is a weekly meme hosted by Book Journey in which we plan our reading week!
(Click on images to send you to Goodreads)

Finished Reading

(Click on title for review)

Trial By Fire by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

I Am (Not) The Walrus by Ed Briant

Bleeding Hearts by Alyxandra Harvey

Currently Reading

Dreamless by Josephine Angelini

Not read much of this book but so far I am not really getting what is actually going on but I'm hoping that will change soon as I haven't even read the first full chapter yet!

Vampire Shift by Tim O'Rourke

I am really enjoying this book as loads of things have been happening. Looking forward to find out what is actually happening.

Reading Next

Blood Moon by Alyxandra Harvey

Otherkin by Nina Berry

So that's my week of reading plan, what's yours?

Showcase Sunday #8

Showcase Sunday is a new weekly Meme that I am taking part of. This weekly meme is hosted by Vicky over at Book, Biscuits and Tea and for more info click on the SS image which will take you straight to the blog. Click on the images of the books to take you to Goodreads.

I only received one book this week which wasn't worth doing a vlog but I will definitely be doing one next week.

Review Books

Revived by Cat Patrick

The cover of the book that I received wasn't actually this one but Goodreads didn't seem to have it. This will be my first book that is written by Cat Patrick so I'm hoping it will be a good one. I remember seeing this book when it was the American version and I knew that I had to get it and was very pleased when Egmont UK said they would send me a copy for review. Can't wait to read this book thank you very much Egmont UK!

So that's all I read this week what did everyone else receive?

Book Review: Bleeding Hearts (Drake Chronicles #4)

Bleeding Hearts (Drake Chronicles #4) by Alyxandra Harvey

(May contain spoilers)

Format: Paperback
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Published: 20th December 2011
Pages: 289
Main Characters: Lucy, Christabel, Connor
Date Started: 21st June 2012
Date Finished: 24th June 2012
Rating Given: ****

Blurb from Goodreads:

The Drakes and friends will be tested when an infestation of deadly vampires threatens Violet Hill.

Lucy's cousin Christabel has come to live in Violet Hill, and adjusting to the difference between life in a small mountain town and her home in the city is difficult enough. The strict curfew that Lucy's parents enforce is the worst part. Something really dangerous couldn't possibly happen in this tiny town.
But Christabel has noticed some mysterious happenings, and it seems like Lucy, her boyfriend Nicholas and his brother Connor are all in on a secret that Christabel doesn't understand—one that seems deadly serious. Although she won't admit it, Christabel would love to be in on any secret with Connor Drake. But when she is kidnapped by the ruthless Hel-Blar vampires, Christabel must cause more and more trouble in Violet Hill, Lucy and Connor finally fill Christabel in on all the undead drama. Together, they must find a way to stamp out the Hel-Blar for good.

Now that I have the latest book in the Drake Chronicles it has made me read these books a lot quicker although it wasn't as good as Out For Blood it's still a good book especially with it being so short I am able to read these books faster.

All the books in this series are the same but out of the ones that have been out already this one has to be my least favourite. This has to be because of the part that shine (not noticeable on this cover) just doesn't look as nice as the other as its dead plants or trees. Apart from that bit I really like this cover.

Alyxandra Harvey may be a fairly new author for me but it doesn't actually feel that way as I feel as though I have read loads of her books. Harvey sure knows how to write about some very beautiful and funny brothers and makes all her characters relatable which is probably why nearly everyone loves these books. Usually in these books she has short chapters but this time around they seemed a bit longer than usual but they wasn't too long so I was alright with that.

There was a lot going on in this book as there usually is but for some reason I couldn't quite get into it as much as I usually did. There was a few twists in this book that I didn't see coming especially the ending I am so glad I have the next book to read as otherwise that cliffhanger would have killed me. We was introduced to Connor Drake this time round but I must admit he wasn't as funny as Quinn but there was still some funny moments from Conner and some of the others but not quite as many as before.

As I said it was the turn of Conner and yes I did like him but I didn't love him as much as Quinn or Nicholas. We usually see him as the geeky one but we did see a more fiercer side to him as well as a sweet side to him. There was also another new female character in the form of Christabel who I think seems to be like her cousin Lucy but a bit more subdued. Talking of Lucy we went back to hearing her thoughts which I have missed because when we have Lucy we get Nicholas and I love there relationship between the two as there is some great banter but also a romantic side to them. There isn't a lot of Solange in this book but when we do see her she is very annoying and very different from the person we met in the first book.

Overall this book has a bit of everything for everyone a bit of humour, some action and of course some romance. Although it isn't my favourite book I still enjoyed it.

Book Review: I Am (Not) The Walrus

I Am (Not) The Walrus by Ed Briant

Format: e-arc
Publisher: Flux Books
Published: 8th July 2012
Pages: 288
Main Characters: Toby
Date Started: 17th June 2012
Date Finished: 21st June 2012
Rating Given: **

Blurb from Netgalley:

A quirky story about girls, love, and rock ‘n' roll
As the singer and bass player for Lucky Twenty, a Beatles cover band, Toby wants to make it big. But Zach, Toby's best friend and fellow band member, is convinced there's a problem: Toby's utter lack of mojo. How can he croon about love when he's never even kissed a girl?
So begins Toby's quest for cred as a lovestruck singer. But his quest derails when he finds a note inside his old bass guitar. Who is the true owner of the bass? And can a kiss really help Toby figure out who he is? 

I can't remember the exact reason why I wanted t read this book but I thought I best get it read soon and now I wish I never did as I found I was very disappointed.

The cover I love especially with it being simple yet still catches my eye. I never noticed the face outlines in the guitar until actually writing this review which I like that I can see something new each time I see the cover. This cover is eye catching and maybe one of the reasons why I wanted to read the book.

This is my first book written by Ed Briant but I'm not sure if I will read any more of them as Briant's style of writing is just not for me. I think maybe the reason why I couldn't get into this book is because it's not the kind of genre that I like as I prefer a bit of action and more romance in the books I read.

I really didn't get where the storyline was going through out this book as things would be happening that just wasn't believable. The beginning was very slow and hard to get into and as for the ending I was very disappointed in as it just ended without anything getting explained I felt it ended abruptly. I did find myself starting to like the book towards the end as loads of things started to happen but then it was over before it even begun.

With the characters I don't think we got to know them as good as what we could have done and with it being a stand alone book maybe it should have been longer so we got to know the characters a bit better. The main character Toby was a nice enough boy but he did seem depressed which I was surprised about as I expected him to be more fun. I didn't get his relationship with Michelle as it seemed to be glossed over which I was disappointed in as the first line of the blurb says the book is about love but I didn't get that kind of feeling between these two or any of the characters.

Overall this just wasn't the book for me.

Book Review: Trial By Fire (Raised By Wolves #2)

Trial By Fire (Raised By Wolves #2) by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

(May contain spoilers)

Format: Paperback
Published: Quercus Publishing
Published: 13th June 2011
Pages: 357
Main Characters: Bryn, Chase, Devon, Lake
Date Started: 17th June 2012
Date Finished: 20th June 2012
Rating Given: ***

Blurb from Goodreads:

There can only be one alpha.

Bryn is finally settling into her position as alpha of the Cedar Ridge Pack—or at least, her own version of what it means to be alpha when you’re a human leading a band of werewolves. Then she finds a teenage boy bleeding on her front porch. Before collapsing, he tells her his name is Lucas, he’s a Were, and Bryn’s protection is his only hope.

But Lucas isn’t part of Bryn’s pack, and she has no right to claim another alpha’s Were. With threats—old and new—looming, and danger closing in from all sides, Bryn will have to accept what her guardian Callum knew all along. To be alpha, she will have to give in to her own animal instincts and become less human. And, she’s going to have to do it alone.

Bryn faces both the costs, and the rewards, of love and loyalty, in this thrilling sequel to Raised by Wolves.

I only read the first book last month but the lovely publisher of Quercus saw that I was reading it and offered me the next two books and who was I to turn them down! I need to say a huge thank you to Quercus for giving me the opportunity to continue on with this series and even though I knocked it down a star from the first one I still very much enjoyed this book. I would have rated it more but I preferred the first one so it didn't seem right giving the same stars to both the books when I liked one more than the other.

The cover is very similar to the first one but this time we see a bit more of the girls face which she doesn't look happy but I guess she wasn't very happy in the book either. It is also a different colour to the first one as this time it's in red which I think I prefer the blue cover on the first one but that's just me. Again I love the way that it has a metallic finish to it as I kept looking at it as it made it shine especially the moon.

This is only my second book written by Jennifer Lynn Barnes which again is written in a way that keeps me guessing and sometimes I can't even guess what is going to happen which doesn't happen very often. Barnes seems to build both of her books up until closer to the end when everything kicks off which makes me want to keep reading although because of this I find it a bit slow at the beginning. Although I didn't have much of a wait in between these book I know a lot of readers would have at the time but I don't think it matters how much time you leave in between as there are subtle reminders of what had happened.

With this book a bit more going on than in the previous book which I usually like but I felt like I was easily distracted from this book it just couldn't keep my interest at all times which was a shame as when it did capture my interests I found it a very entertaining book. I liked the way that this time around we was seeing how Bryn was coping with being a human alpha which did lead to some sad moments but also fun moments. I loved that there was more twists and turns that I just can't wait to find out more.

Bryn was more at battle with herself in this book as she never knew if she was doing the right thing which did make her more likable to me. At times I did forget that she wasn't a wolf but just a human girl which I think that could be because that was how Bryn was feeling. I loved Devon he is definitely my favourite character in this series so far as he is so funny whenever he was in a scene I found myself smiling. He did show a more serious side to him which just made me love him all the more. Chase is still a bit of a mystery to me all we know is how he feels about Bryn which was great to see it develop even more. I was glad that we got to see more of Lake as she is a very strong female character. We got introduced to new characters in this book but I'm not sure about any of them as they seemed bad but then the next minute they was good but the more I learnt about them the more I understood and I'm sure for some of them we will get to find out a bit more in the next book.

Overall not as good as the first book but it's still a very good book and I can't wait to continue on with Bryn's journey.

Book Cover: Origin

Origin by Jessica Khoury

This book isn't actually out until the beginning of September but I thought I would talk about it anyways.

As soon as I saw this book I just knew it would be one for my wishlist and that was just from the cover and after reading the synopsis (click cover) it does sound interesting so I will read this book.

It is different to other covers with a person on the front as this time it's just the silhouette but in white which makes it stand out which could have been hard to do if it was in any other colour or even if you could see the actual person.

I love that the title is down the length of the silhouette has again it makes it stand out and your eye is immediately drawn to the title because of it. I like that it's not bold but has a futuristic look about it s it makes me wonder what time this book is set in.

I also love the background being all plants ad trees as it looks stunning and from the synopsis I know that this book is set in an Amazon Rain forest which I like the way it ties in with the cover.

Overall this is a stunning cover and I am hoping that the story is just as stunning.

Teaser Tuesday #27

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along!




My teasers:

Trial By Fire by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

My fingerprint appeared as a white mark on my reddish skin, but after a few seconds, the mark faded.
My memory of the dream-and the expression on the face of the man who'd attacked me-did not. I could feel his stare, see the fire leaping to life at my feet, and even though he hadn't actually said it, looking back, I could hear a promise passing from his lips to my ears.
You're going to burn. - Page 97

It took awhile to get into but now its very intriguing I just can't wait to find out what is going to happen next.

          I Am (Not) The Walrus by Ed Briant

She stops drawing, twists right around, and looks up at me. "bloody nora!"she says, and leaps to her feet and crouches into something that looks like a kung-fu stance. "You've got a flipping nerve. I'll give you that!"
There, standing right in front of me, is the girl I bumped into yesterday. - Page 51

Couldn't really find a very interesting quote for this one as nothing interesting seems to be happening but I'm hoping that it will pick up soon.

It's Monday What Are You Reading? #34

It's Monday What Are You Reading is a weekly meme hosted by Book Journey in which we plan our reading week!
(Click on images to send you to Goodreads)

Finished Reading

(Click on title for review)

The Golden Lily by Richelle Mead

This is Not a Test by Courtney Summers

Out For Blood by Alyxandra Harvey

Currently Reading

Trial By Fire by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Only started this book yesterday but it seems good so far and something has just happened so I think it will only get better.

I Am (Not) The Walrus by Ed Briant

Again I have only just started this one yesterday but this one seems a bit slow so I'm hoping that it will pick up.

Reading Next

Bleeding Hearts by Alyxandra Harvey

Vampire Shift by Tim O'Rourke

Looking forward to reading both of these books as I love the Drake Chronicles and I have been wanting to read Vampire Shift for ages.

That's my reading plan for this week, what's everyone else reading?

Book Review: Out For Blood (Drake Chronicles #3)

Out For Blood (Drake Chronicles #3) by Alyxandra Harvey

Format: Paperback
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Published: 1st November 2010
Pages: 292
Main Characters: Hunter, Quinn
Date Started:13th June 2012
Date Finished: 17th June 2012
Rating Given: *****

Blurb from Goodreads:

Hunter Wild is the youngest in a long line of elite vampire hunters, a legacy that is both a blessing and a curse at the secret Helios-Ra Academy, where she excels at just about everything. Thanks to her friendship with Kieran Black, Hunter receives a special invitation to attend the coronation of Helena Drake, and for the first time, she sees the difference between vampires that must be hunted and vampires that can become friends—or even more. When students at the academy fall victim to a mysterious illness, Hunter suspects they are under attack from within. She will need someone she can trust to help her save the future of Helios-Ra . . . help that shockingly comes in the form of Quinn Drake, a drop-dead gorgeous vampire. Who said senior year would be easy?

I have read and loved the first two in this series so I am surprised that it has taken me awhile to actually read this book as like the first two I loved this one too.

I love the UK covers of this series but I do think out of the covers that are out this one is my favourite so far but I think that has more to do with the hint of blue it looks so effective against the black background. Also what you can't actually see from the picture is that the title is raised which I love. I also love that some of the black is shiny so in certain lights you can see some trees which again I love.

I have read a few of Alyxandra Harvey's books and she is becoming one of my favourite authors especially based on the Drake Chronicles she has created the most likable and lovable brothers. There is always so much going on with this family and even the family she keeps introducing I have never seen so much drama. All the books are quick reads which is another reason to love them. I have the rest of the series which are out now on my shelf to ready for me to read as well as one of her other books and I can't wait to read them all as it seems Harvey can not put a foot wrong.

Out For Blood follows the brother Quinn which until now we haven't heard much from and another new character Hunter. There is always something going on in this book from the moment it starts up until the last page and from the way it ended it will only continue in the next book. There was moments that I would be laughing or even smiling and also moments where I would be on the edge of my seat. This was a very addicting book and would have probably finished it sooner if I had time over the past couple of days but that was no fault of the book.

I loved Quinn I always thought it would be Nicholas who would be my favourite now I'm not so sure. Quinn was so funny but also sweet most of my favourite parts where involving Quinn. Hunter is another female lead that I love she was also funny especially when she was around Quinn but she could definitely hold her own in a world full of vampires. I hope we get to see more from these two as they made a great couple I'm sure we will as we got to see Lucy and Nicholas in this book as well as the rest. We got introduced to a few new characters including Chloe who was an annoying for a bit of this book but we do find the reason behind this and after that she was a fun a fun character that I would like to see more from. There was some others that we didn't get to see enough of but in the end I didn't mind as I was able to see more of Quinn!

Overall another hit for Alyxandra Harvey in the Drake Chronicles as it was very entertaining with a mixture of romance and action with a bit of mystery thrown in for good measure.

Book Review: This Is Not A Test

This Is Not A Test by Courtney Summers

Format: E-ARC
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Published: 19th June 2012
Pages: 326
Main Characters: Sloane
Date Started: 9th June 2012
Date Finished: 14th June 2012
Rating Given: ****

Blurb from Netgalley:

It’s the end of the world.

Six students have taken cover in Cortege High but shelter is little comfort when the dead outside won’t stop pounding on the doors. One bite is all it takes to kill a person and bring them back as a monstrous version of their former self.

To Sloane Price, that doesn’t sound so bad. Six months ago, her world collapsed and since then, she’s failed to find a reason to keep going. Now seems like the perfect time to give up. As Sloane eagerly waits for the barricades to fall, she’s forced to witness the apocalypse through the eyes of five people who actually want to live. But as the days crawl by, the motivations for survival change in startling ways and soon the group’s fate is determined less and less by what’s happening outside and more and more by the unpredictable and violent bids for life—and death—inside. When everything is gone, what do you hold on to?

I actually can't remember why I requested this book from Netgalley as it was awhile ago now but I think that it might have had something to do with Zombies but I'm not sure. Whatever the reason was I knew that I needed to read it soon as the archive date was coming up and I am glad that I have read it because in the end it was a very intriguing book to read.

The cover could have been another reason why I wanted to read this book as it's very captivating as we don't actually see the girls face so we don't know anything about what is going on with her but there does look like there is some blood on the top of the cover which does make me wonder what is going to happen in this book. It looks a bit strange but I think that fits the actual story perfectly. I love that there isn't much going on in the cover as it keeps me guessing which again fits into the story.

This is not the debut book from Courtney Summers but it is my first time reading one of Summers books and it won't be my last. There is a couple that I have wanted to read for awhile but never actually took notice of the name until now so I think they will go closer to the top of my list of books that I will be getting. Summers has written a very gripping book even if it was a bit strange. She was also able to add family problems into a world where zombies live is just brilliant.

To start with I didn't actually like this book as I was very confused to what was going on but the further I went into it the more I enjoyed it to the point of rating it four stars. There wasn't much action until nearer to the end but then one thing happened and then everything seemed to happened just like the domino effect. It was a very dark and depressing book so I would suggest before reading it make sure in the mood for that kind of book especially when there isn't any lightness to the story. We don't actually see the zombies for most of the book but we know they are out there especially nearer the end it sounded very gross. I didn't like the ending I felt the same way as the same last line what happens next?I don't think this is a part of a series which is a shame as I could see loads more happening as we have loads of unanswered questions.

The point of view of the story is from Sloane who has been going through some huge family problems for most of her life so throughout the book she seems very depressed to the point of wanting to die and because of this I wasn't a huge fan of her but I did understand where she was coming from. There was five other characters that where alright but we didn't get to know a great deal about them and for the most part they where annoying there was points in the story where I liked and hated them.

Overall a very intriguing book that keeps you gripped even in the darkest times.

Showcase Sunday #7

Showcase Sunday is a new weekly Meme that I am taking part of. This weekly meme is hosted by Vicky over at Book, Biscuits and Tea and for more info click on the SS image which will take you straight to the blog. Click on the titles of the books to take you to Goodreads.

I have decided to do my very first vlog so please bare with me until I get used to the webcam as I have never used one before this either...







Review Books
Dreamless (Starcrossed #1) by Josephine Angelini

Swap Books
Switched (Trylle Series #1) by Amanda Hocking

Brought/Gifted Books
Legend (Legend #1) by Marie Lu
Insurgent (Divergent #2) by Veronica Roth

So that's the books I received this week what did everyone else get? Leave me your links and I will try and visit you.

Film Review: Snow White and The Huntsman

Snow White and The Huntsman

(May contain spoilers)

Director: Rupert Sanders
Writers: Evan Daugherty (Screenplay and Screen Story), John Lee Hancock (Screenplay), Hossein Amini (Screenplay)
Stars/Characters: Kristen Stewart/Snow White, Chris Hemsworth/The Huntsman, Charlize Theron/Ravenna, Sam Claflin/William, Sam Spruell/Finn, Ian McShane/Beith, Bob Hoskins/Muir, Ray Winstone/Gort, Nick Frost/Nion, Eddie Marsan/Duir, Toby Jones/Coll, Johnny Harris/Quert
Cinema Release Date: 30th May 2012
Date Watched: 13th June 2012
Rating Given: *****


I didn't actually know that this is a book until a couple of weeks ago but I loved the film so much that I think reading the book would more than likely spoil it for me.

As soon as I saw that Chris Hemsworth was going to be in this film I knew that I just had to watch it and I'm glad I did as like his other films just recently this film was brilliant.

This film had to get the full five stars as I loved it so much that I couldn't say a bad word about it (well I would have complained about the ending but I've just heard that they have been given the go ahead for another film). The special effects was just outstanding if not a bit gross at times but I didn't mind that too much although the amount of birds did have me turning away from the screen! This film had a mixture of action, romance, humour and heartache I think it has something in there for everyone.

The acting was actually brilliant which I was surprised as Kristen Stewart wasn't the best actor in Twilight yet in this film her acting was really good as well as her English acting. She was believable as Snow White as I had heard a few remarks that her being more beautiful than Charlize Theron was not believable but because Theron is the bad guy it makes her ugly and it's more about Snow White being pure of heart. Theron was also great at acting the bad guy as well as showing why she was that way made you hate her a little less. As for Chris Hemsworth he was just brilliant and I loved him with an accent it just made me swoon at him all the more I could have done with more screen time for Mr. Hemsworth ;)  The dwarf's was also brilliant they really did make the film.

I just love this film it's one that I will be watching again and I really do hope that a sequel comes off.

Book Review: The Golden Lily (Bloodlines #2)

The Golden Lily (Bloodlines #2) by Richelle Mead

(May contain spoilers)

Format: Paperback (arc)
Publisher: Puffin Books
Published: 12th June 2012
Pages: 418
Main Characters: Sydney, Adrian, Jill, Eddie
Date Started: 8th June 2012
Date Finished: 12th June 2012
Rating Given: ****

Blurb from Goodreads:

Sydney Sage is an Alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of humans and vampires. They protect vampire secrets—and human lives.

Sydney would love to go to college, but instead, she's been sent into hiding at a posh boarding school in Palm Springs, California–tasked with protecting Moroi princess Jill Dragomir from assassins who want to throw the Moroi court into civil war. Formerly in disgrace, Sydney is now praised for her loyalty and obedience, and held up as the model of an exemplary Alchemist.

But the closer she grows to Jill, Eddie, and especially Adrian, the more she finds herself questioning her age–old Alchemist beliefs, her idea of family, and the sense of what it means to truly belong. Her world becomes even more complicated when magical experiments show Sydney may hold the key to prevent becoming Strigoi—the fiercest vampires, the ones who don't die. But it's her fear of being just that—special, magical, powerful—that scares her more than anything. Equally daunting is her new romance with Brayden, a cute, brainy guy who seems to be her match in every way. Yet, as perfect as he seems, Sydney finds herself being drawn to someone else—someone forbidden to her.

When a shocking secret threatens to tear the vampire world apart, Sydney's loyalties are suddenly tested more than ever before. She wonders how she's supposed to strike a balance between the principles and dogmas she's been taught, and what her instincts are now telling her.

Should she trust the Alchemists—or her heart?

I really loved Richelle Mead's Vampire Academy series and liked Bloodlines so when I saw The Golden Lily was coming out I thought I would ask if I could receive an arc copy of it. I wasn't actually expecting it as I don't usually get the big titles so I was very happy when I received it in the post thank you Puffin Books I'm so grateful for the opportunity to review it as I loved it more than Bloodlines.

I'm not actually sure about the Bloodline series covers but the one part of the cover that I love is the title and the way that it looks elegant and the pattern around it just looks beautiful it really does make the book stand out but the rest doesn't match.

I am a huge fan of Richelle Mead as she is one of the only author's that start a series off and I'm not a huge lover of it but when more of her books comes out in that series I just end up loving them and this is no different. I love Mead's style of writing as she puts in loads of twists and turns as well as giving us brilliant characters that you can't help but root for.

With this series there isn't that much action until right near the end which I would prefer a bit more action throughout. Although there's no action for most part of the book I just could feel it coming which was what kept me hooked I just had to know what was going to happen next. At the beginning I couldn't remember what had happened in Bloodlines so I did get a little lost but there was little hints of what went on throughout the book. I loved the humour in this book as I would find myself either laughing out loud or smiling but then there was also some heartache as well. I really did feel like I was apart of this world and I loved it and I am looking forward to see what happens in the next book especially with that ending I think my heart may have just broke a bit.

I loved the characters this time round as in the first book I wasn't a fan of Sydney as she was a bit too dull for me but in this book I found I liked her throughout the book yes she still wasn't an exciting character but she had some funny things to say and she grew more of a backbone. Adrian is just one of the best characters in any book he is so funny I just love him. I did feel so sorry for him in parts of this book I just hope we get a happy ending for him as he needs one. I loved that we saw more of Dimitri.

Overall another great book from Richelle Mead and I for one can't wait to see what happens next!

Teaser Tuesday #26

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along!




My teasers:

The Golden Lily by Richelle Mead

"You're still drunk," I said, putting my hand on the door knob.
He tilted his head to the side, still watching me in that same, disconcerting way. "Some things are true, drunk or sober. You should know that. You deal with facts all the time."
"Yeah, but this isn't-" I couldn't argue with him looking at me like that. "I have to go. Wait... you didn't take the cross." I held it out to him.
He shook his head. "Keep it. I think I've got something else to help centre my life." - Page 247

I am really enjoying this book even more than the first one.

This Is Not A Test by Courtney Summers

I wonder if she hears him where she is now, if she hears his voice and his footsteps in her dreams. I wonder if she hears him when she's awake or if she stopped hearing him as soon as she left, if everything got more okay the more distance she put between us. Or maybe the voice and the footsteps she hears are mine. I hope they are. I hope I'm the ghost that belongs to her. - Page 113

I'm not too sure about this one as too many things are being left unanswered but the further I get into it the more they are answered.


Both books are ARC copies so therefore may differ to the final version.

Film Review: Dear John

Dear John

(May contain spoilers)

Director: Lasse Hallstom
Writers: Jamie Linden (Screenplay), Nicholas Sparks (Novel)
Stars/Characters: Channing Tatum/John, Amanda Seyfried/Savanah
Cinema Release Date: 14th April 2010
Date Watched: 10th June 2012
Rating Given: ****

I have not read this book not sure if I will ever read a Nicholas Sparks novels because if they are anything like the films then I will always be crying. Yes I know if I am able to watch the films then I should be alright with the books but with a film you can get all the heartbreak over in one sitting whereas in a book it would be over a few days if not more which I can't be doing with. This film was actually on the TV in the UK so I thought why not try it and I'm glad I did as I loved it.

I would have rated this a five star film and was thinking that right until the end and then I thought nooooo you can't end like that so I had to knock it down a star. I was not happy at all in the way in which it ended as for me it didn't really let me know what was going to happen I could kind of guess but I would rather be told.

I do love Channing Tatum and couldn't even think of anyone to play this role other than him but it is the kind of role we have seen him in many times before. There was a very touching scene with John and his father that had me in tears. I thought the chemistry between John and Savannah was sweet but not as believable as other on screen partners in other films.

This film was a bit predictable but I do love my romance films which usually are. It did leave me wanting more but not in a good way but it hasn't put me off wanting to watch it over and over again.

It's Monday What Are You Reading #33

It's Monday What Are You Reading is a weekly meme hosted by Book Journey in which we plan our reading week!
(Click on images to send you to Goodreads)

Finished Reading

(Click on title for review)

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

Lies Beneath by Anne Greenwood Brown

Currently Reading

The Golden Lily by Richelle Mead

Not much was happening to start with but then just a bit before halfway through it started to pick up and now I'm hooked.

This is Not a Test by Courtney Summers

I'm not that far into this book but things have been happening from the start but it's also very confusing as things happened and then not explained but I'm sure that will get sorted out throughout the book.

Reading Next

Out For Blood by Alyxandra Harvey

I read the first two in this series and loved them so now I'm onto the third and I can't wait.

I am (Not) the Walrus by Ed Briant

I can't remember anything about this book but it will be archived on Netgalley soon so I thought I better start reading it soon.

That's what I'm planning on reading this week. What's everyone else reading?

Showcase Sunday #6

Showcase Sunday is a new weekly Meme that I am taking part of. This weekly meme is hosted by Vicky over at Book, Biscuits and Tea and for more info click on the SS image which will take you straight to the blog. Click on the images of the books to take you to Goodreads.

Swap Books

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

I did a swap a couple of weeks ago but instead of a book I received a gift card for the postage and when this book went down to £2.80 I just knew it was the book for me. I have had it on my wishlist for ages but never got around to getting it but at that price who was I to refuse.

Tris & Izzie by Mette Ivie Harrison

Another swap book and another one that I have been after. I love re-tellings so I'm hoping I will love this too.

Review Books

Velvet by Mary Hooper

This book arrived yesterday but I wasn't expecting it at all as it was a few weeks ago when Bloomsbury emailed to see if anyone wanted to review it so I just thought there wasn't enough books available. Thanks to Emma over at Bloomsbury.

Vampire Shift by Tim O'Rourke

Tim O'Rourke contacted me through Facebook to see if I wanted to review his books and seeing as I have been dying to read this series I jumped at the chance and has now sent me an ecopy of it. Also we have been talking about me hosting a giveaway for this book so watch out for that :) A big thanks to Tim O'Rourke.

So that's the books I received this week. What did everyone else receive?

Book Review: Lies Beneath (Lies Beneath #1)

Lies Beneath (Lies Beneath #1) by Anne Greenwood Brown

Format: e-arc
Publisher: Random House
Published: 12th June 2012
Pages: 320
Main Characters: Calder, Lily
Date Started: 3rd June 2012
Date Finished: 8th June 2012
Rating Given: ***

Blurb from Netgalley:

The lore of mermaids and mermen is real. Just wait until you meet Calder White in this addictive debut novel that is destined to make a splash!
     Calder White lives in the cold, clear waters of Lake Superior, the only brother in a family of murderous mermaids. To survive, Calder and his sisters must prey on humans and absorb their positive energy. Usually they select their victims at random, but this time around the underwater clan chooses its target for a reason: revenge. They want to kill Jason Hancock, the man they blame for their mother's death.
     It's going to take the whole White family to lure the aquaphobic Hancock onto the water. Calder's job is to gain Hancock's trust by getting close to his family. Relying on his irresistible good looks and charm, Calder sets out to seduce Hancock's daughter Lily. Easy enough, but Calder screws everything up by falling in love—just as Lily starts to suspect that there's more to the monsters-in-the-lake legends than she ever imagined, and just as the mermaids threaten to take matters into their own hands, forcing Calder to choose between family and the girl he loves. One thing's for sure, whatever Calder decides, the outcome won't be pretty.

I had been after this book for review for a while and couldn't get it but then when I saw that it was on Netgalley I jumped at the chance and I'm very grateful that I was accepted as it was a different Mermaid tale in which I am used to reading.

I do like the cover although I'm not a huge fan. I love the fact that it is under water and what I originally thought was a mermaid but after reading the book I'm not so sure as she looks more like the human in the story than the mermaids. Great idea putting the title in the middle of the book in big letters as it makes the book stand out more.

Lies Beneath is Anne Greenwood Brown's first novel and I think it's a good start to her career. I love the way in which she has made it more original story of mermaids making them out to not the good guys which I think is a refreshing change. I loved the fact that she had short chapters as that is what I prefer when reading my books as then I can read more than what I normally would have.

It is a good story but it did take a long time to get to the answers which normally I don't mind as it adds to the mystery but in this case I was thinking hurry up all the way through. I just didn't believe in the story like I usually do but I will most likely continue with the series as like I said it was a good story and it was also the first in the series which doesn't always grab me into the series but then by the second I am hooked which I am hoping happens with this series. I did find it a little slow for my liking and nothing really big happens until right near the end but when something did happen I found it a bit glossed over.

I didn't really like Calder that much as he was a bit annoying and a bit of a stalker which I did understand as he wasn't exactly the good guy yet it was told from his point of view which I did find a bit strange I would have preferred it to be from Lily's point of view as she was a more interesting character. I did like Lily's sister as well but she wasn't in it that much which the same goes for most of the side characters. I didn't like Calder's sisters either but I don't think we are supposed to seeing as they are the mermaids that kill people and set out for revenge.

Overall a good start to the series but it was a bit too unbelievable.

Book Review: Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass #1)

Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass #1) by Sarah J. Maas

Format: Paperback (arc)
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Published: 2nd August 2012
Pages: 416
Main Characters: Celaena, Dorian, Chaol
Date Started: 3rd June 2012
Date Finished: 8th June 2012
Rating Given: ****

Blurb from Goodreads:

Celaena Sardothien is a daredevil assassin with unrivalled fighting skills. After a year’s hard labour in the salt mines of the kingdom of Adarlan, Celaena is offered her freedom on one condition—she must fight as handsome Prince Dorian’s champion in a contest sponsored by the king, facing the deadliest thieves and assassins in the land in a series of set-piece battles in the country’s stunning glass palace. But there is more at stake than even her life—for Celaena is destined for a remarkable future...

When I received an email from Bloomsbury asking if I wanted to review this and seeing as it is a Cinderella re-telling I jumped at the chance. When I started to read the book I wasn't too sure about it but by the end I was sold and I am really glad and thankful to Bloomsbury for giving me the chance to review it.

I am a huge fan of this cover which if you have seen a previous book cover post you will know how much I love this cover. I'm so glad that the story matches the cover so that now I can be happy when I buy a copy of this book I just need this cover on my bookshelf.

This is a debut novel by Sarah J. Maas and what a debut it is. I was drawn into the world that Maas has created so much so that I could picture all the surrounding vividly which doesn't happen and even if it does it's not as vivid as this book was. I am a huge fan of re-tellings and this book is no different even if it is loads different to Cinderella I still loved it and the way she was able to make me love these characters even more than the Cinderella story which I now find rather corny compared to this story. There was some names that I couldn't pronounce so I'm hoping there is a pronunciation guide in the final version of the book just so I know if I'm saying them right.

Yes this was a brilliant book but I did find it hard to get into at first but once I was in to it I was hooked as it's a very addicting story and one I am looking forward to continue. I love that there is a slight paranormal twist in there and I am sure there will be even more paranormal activity in the next book. I also loved the way that the action creeped into the story but then it built and built through out right until the end which then kept me gripped. There was also a bit of mystery thrown in for good measure which I loved as it kept me guessing right until the end but also some of it I am still guessing now that I have finished it.

The characters I loved some of the best characters that I have ever read. Celaena is definitely high on my best female character list as she is such a strong person who acts like some of my favourite male characters as she is also arrogant but then there is also a soft side to her which I like to see in a character. She is also stubborn and proud but she is also very funny as she seems to have a very witty sense of humour, some of the things she said or did had me laughing. Dorian I actually didn't like at first but by the end I loved him he was so sweet to Celaena even when she didn't deserve it. Chaol I loved from the moment we met him and I hope his hard exterior cracks even more in the next book. I really do feel so sorry for all these characters at different points and I have a feeling that is only going to get worse as to me it seems like someone is going to get their heart broken.

Overall a great addicting start to a series which I hope continues in the same way even if it was a slow start!

Book Cover: Eve & Adam

Eve & Adam by Michael Grant and Katherine Applegate

I only came across this book a couple of weeks ago but as soon as I saw it I just fell in love with it as it looks so beautiful. The book isn't out until the beginning of October of this year but already I want to read it and it's because of the cover. If you want to know what the story is about then click on the image and it will take you straight to the goodreads page. I think it's another dystopian book which I'm not always impressed with but I am hoping that this book is one that I love as I need this cover on my bookshelf!

I love the simplicity of this cover as it doesn't look over done it's more about the colours that make it stand out. The red and blue's go beautifully together with just a hint of other colours so that there isn't too much of the dominant colours. With adding shadows of the apple it makes it look more 3D as without the shadows it would have looked too flat.

There is parts of the books that have got me intrigued to what is going to happen within the story. The puzzle of the apple gives it some mystery which I love in a book so I am hoping that this book has some of that. The lightning I am stumped about I have no idea what this could entail but one things for sure I am excited to find out.

The title of the book fits in with the rest of the book with it being simple yet there is something about the way that they have put some of the letters backwards adds a bit of mystery to the book.

All in all a beautiful cover that I hope the story matches looking forward to finding out!

Teaser Tuesday #25

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along!




My teasers:

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

No, he had to remember she was an assassin with the blessing of a pretty face and sharp wits. She washed her hands with blood, and was just as likely to slit his throat as offer him a kind word. And she was his champion. She was here to fight for him-and her freedom. And nothing more. He lay down, his hand still upon his sword, and fell asleep.
Still, the image haunted his dreams throughout the night: a lovely girl gazing at the stars, and the stars who gazed back. - Page 38

Not that far into it yet but things are starting to happen which is making more excited to read what is going to happen next.

   Lies Beneath by Anne Greenwood Brown

I regretted not having made a kill when I was still in the Bahamas. It was a stupid experiment-seeing how long I could go-and what did it get me? Nothing in the end. The too-familiar threads of depression were already pulling through my veins. I could have used the emotional fix that a human life would provide-particularly now that I was stuck with Maris 24/7. I closed my eyes to the ferry riders and repeated the mantra: Focus, focus, focus. - Page 34

Again I'm not that far into this book but I'm interested in what is going to happen especially after reading this particular part of the book.


Both books are ARC copies so the quotes may differ to the final copies.

It's Monday What Are You Reading #32

It's Monday What Are You Reading is a weekly meme hosted by Book Journey in which we plan our reading week!
(Click on images to send you to Goodreads)

Finished Reading

(Click on title for review)

Raised By Wolves by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Witchstruck by Victoria Lamb

The Shapeshifter's Secret by Heather Ostler

Currently Reading

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

Lies Beneath by Anne Greenwood Brown

Both of these book I have only read the first couple of chapters so I'm not too sure what I think about them just yet but the do seem interesting looking forward to see what happens next with them both.

Reading Next

The Golden Lily by Richelle Mead

Looking forward to reading this as I enjoyed the first one I'm just hoping that I enjoy more than what I did.

This is Not a Test by Courtney Summers

Can't remember what this one was about but the cover looks intriguing so I'm hoping that it will be a good read.

That's what I am planning on reading this week, what's on your reading list for the week?

Book Review: The Shapeshifter's Secret

The Shapeshifter's Secret by Heather Ostler

Format: e-arc
Publisher: Cedar Fort
Published: 12th June 2012
Pages: 328
Main Characters: Julia
Date Started: 24th May 2012
Date Finished: 3rd June 2012
Rating Given: ***

Blurb from Netgalley:

She tried telling herself to stop, but it was useless. Something had fully claimed her mind and body. A sound began to erupt from inside her chest, a deep sort of growl that seized her entire being. She felt as if there was a grizzly bear inside her, trying to escape. And then a deafening roar echoed from her mouth, only inches away from Lancer’s face. It took everything inside of her not to attack him.
In Julia’s life, timing is everything. Like the time her paranoid father put bars on her window so she wouldn’t sneak out at night—even though she’s never given him a reason not to trust her. Or the time this weird new kid showed up at her school and pretty much every girl in sight instantly and inexplicably fell in love with him. What was up with that?
But as time moves on, things in Julia’s life go from strange to seriously impossible. Now it’s all she can do to keep herself and the life she’s always known from falling apart.
This fast-paced action-adventure story is packed with humor, romance, and enough twists and turns to keep you guessing to the very last page. Get lost in a world of hidden royalty, shifting alliances, and dangerous vendettas, but don’t ever forget: nothing is what it seems.

For me the reason why I wanted to read this particular book wasn't the cover as I couldn't see it at the time or even the blurb but the title. The Shapeshifter's Secret it just says it all. Shapeshifter's I have read about before and they are usually good and then the word secret got me intrigued I just had to read it and I am kind of glad that I did.

Like I said I couldn't see the cover straight away as it was a couple of weeks before I found an actual cover and I must admit I'm still not sure whether I like it or not. I love the pattern in the background and even the font especially the S which I have just this second realised that it's important to the story. The girl however doesn't look right I know that it's showing that she is a shapeshifter but for me it just doesn't work as you can actually tell that it's fake as other books that I have seen with mythical creatures on the cover look real but in this case it just doesn't look right.

Heather Ostler was able to create a beautiful world that I for one could visualise very well it sounded like a place that I wish was real so I could visit. Ostler was also able to make me want to read more and more about what was going on even when I wasn't sure that it was the greatest book that I have read I still was thoroughly enthralled I just needed to know what was going to happen.

This book has confused me in the way in which I didn't like the characters but I still wanted to know more it's not very often that a book can do that to me. At the beginning it was a bit juvenile and I really didn't want to read the rest of the book yet somehow I ended up hooked so much so that if there was another book to this series I would read it. There was parts that did make me laugh out loud or just smile but there was also boring parts that just glossed over things that was happening that could have been more interesting. I found that things would happen rather randomly and just didn't get what was happening. There was a bit of action right at the end but again I thought it was rushed I would have loved to have seen more of the action.

Like I said above I wasn't that impressed with the characters. Julia was very annoying at the beginning and also very shallow but I did like that she wasn't afraid to take action when everyone around her was saying no. There was other characters but I don't think that we got to know much about them. Terrance was a descent enough character but all the way through I was expecting him to turn on the good guys. Caleb was a good character although there was times when I would have liked to shake him but apart from that he was one of my favourite characters. The relationship that Julia had with her guy I didn't get as I thought she liked someone else but then it just changed randomly. I think if there was another book I think they all might improve as some books that I have read I hated the characters but by the end of the series I loved them all.

Overall I liked this book but things that happened did make it hard to love it.