Divergent - Veronica Roth

Divergent - Veronica Roth

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“Becoming fearless isn't the point. That's impossible. It's learning how to control your fear, and how to be free from it."

“We believe in ordinary acts of bravery, in the courage that drives one person to stand up for another.”

I know... I'm super late on reading this book. (Like... last person on earth to read it! Haha.) It's funny, I wanted to read this before it even came out! How could I wait so long? I wish I knew... and I know I shouldn't have! Divergent was everything I could have expected from a book and more.

Society is divided by five factions. In your 16th year, they all come together to have a ceremony to pick your faction based on your aptitude test. The 5 factions are: Abnegation [selfless], Dauntless [brave], Amity [peaceful], Candor [honesty] and Erudite [intelligent]. Beatrice brought up in Abnegation and is always suppose to put others needs before her own. As the day of the ceremony comes, She has only one choice. What will she choose? Staying with her family and doing the same boring thing over and over... which sometimes she doesn't even agree with? Or does she take control of her life and start a new life somewhere else?

Veronica Roth has created and weaved together a fascinatingly complex, interesting, and extremely well written novel with Divergent. Starting from chapter one, Veronica grabs you and sucks you into Beatrice's world. Every detail in this book is as I pictured it, while letting your imagination run wild. Divergent is beautifully tied together from one faction to the next. With characters that you absolutely love [(Tris & Four) being favorites, Christina, Will) make this story one you're soon to never forget!I loved all the characters, really and yes.. even the bad guys. Ugh! (Eric and Peter...) The growth in every character is truly phenomenal.

I'm sure I can't say anything that someone else hasn't already wrote about the amazingness that is this book. I'm truly glad that I made myself read this before the end of 2012! Now I get to move on to Insurgent. Shh... Don't tell, but I already started it! I had to put Insurgent down so I could write this before I mix the two together! My god, Veronica. I mean, you've got the perfect anecdote for tragedy, love, bravery, rebellion, betrayal... let me stop, I could go on forever. Anyways! If you haven't picked up this book to read it.. DO IT RIGHT MEOW! I couldn't stop reading. You won't want to either!!!! This is most definitely a one-sit read, if you have the time. 

-beth [vixen 2]

Waiting on Wednesday #14

"Waiting on" Wednesday is  a weekly event hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases in which we are eagerly awaiting.


beth [vixen2]'s pick - 

This book looks sooooo good. So original. The synopsis is pretty self explanatory on why I want to read it. Simply sounds amazing, and heartfelt... yet full of horror.

The Farm - Emily McKay

Expected Publication: Dec 4th 2012 

 

Life was different in the Before: before vampires began devouring humans in a swarm across America; before the surviving young people were rounded up and quarantined. These days, we know what those quarantines are—holding pens where human blood is turned into more food for the undead monsters, known as Ticks. Surrounded by electrical fences, most kids try to survive the Farms by turning on each other…

And when trust is a thing of the past, escape is nearly impossible.

Lily and her twin sister Mel have a plan. Though Mel can barely communicate, her autism helps her notice things no one else notices—like the portion of electrical fence that gets turned off every night. Getting across won’t be easy, but as Lily gathers what they need to escape, a familiar face appears out of nowhere, offering to help…

Carter was a schoolmate of Lily’s in the Before. Managing to evade capture until now, he has valuable knowledge of the outside world. But like everyone on the Farm, Carter has his own agenda, and he knows that behind the Ticks is an even more dangerous threat to the human race...

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Kait's pick -

The Archived by Victoria Schwab
Expected Publication: January 22nd, 2013

From Goodreads:
Imagine a place where the dead rest on shelves like books.

Each body has a story to tell, a life seen in pictures that only Librarians can read. The dead are called Histories, and the vast realm in which they rest is the Archive.

Da first brought Mackenzie Bishop here four years ago, when she was twelve years old, frightened but determined to prove herself. Now Da is dead, and Mac has grown into what he once was, a ruthless Keeper, tasked with stopping often-violent Histories from waking up and getting out. Because of her job, she lies to the people she loves, and she knows fear for what it is: a useful tool for staying alive.

Being a Keeper isn't just dangerous-it's a constant reminder of those Mac has lost. Da's death was hard enough, but now her little brother is gone too. Mac starts to wonder about the boundary between living and dying, sleeping and waking. In the Archive, the dead must never be disturbed. And yet, someone is deliberately altering Histories, erasing essential chapters. Unless Mac can piece together what remains, the Archive itself might crumble and fall.

In this haunting, richly imagined novel, Victoria Schwab reveals the thin lines between past and present, love and pain, trust and deceit, unbearable loss and hard-won redemption.

-------

This is one of my most anticipated reads of 2013. It's definitely my most anticipated new series novel. I know I am not alone in the excitement. I've been coveting this book for about six months now, and the release date is so closed I can feel it!


What are you waiting for this week? Leave us a link an we will visit!

 

Advantage Erin - Kris Kreisman

  Advantage Erin - Kris Kreisman

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        I'm gonna start by saying I loved this book. I'm usually a paranormal reader, but I really wanted to try something different!I think that Advantage Erin is a great story for any teenager who has trouble relating to their parents. Erin and her mom have a tough relationship. All her mom wants is what's best for her, but that's not how Erin sees it. Erin thinks that her mom is overbearing and has pushed her far too hard for "perfection". When it comes to sports, Parents tend to be maybe a little harsh on their children to be the best they can be. I know, I've seen this come full circle. When I was a kid, my dad was my soccer coach, and my goodness did he annoy me sometimes. I felt like I never got a break from practice. Well... Having a son, I know first hand what it's like to want the best of everything for your child. So I can understand both sides to this story.

       Erin and her mom can't seem to come to any sort of equal grounds, especially when it comes to Tennis. When her best friend and her get invited by THE hottest guy in school, to a movie... there's nothing she wants more. Starting spring break by taking a visit to her Grandmothers, Erin has a huge surprise in store for her. Erin and her grandmother take a trip to the high school that her mom went to when she was a kid. Erin is thrown in the past, to when her mother went to school. She searches out her mother while in the past and challenges her to the tennis match of their lives.

     Advantage Erin is extraordinary and well versed. The characters are loveable and easy to relate to. The ending of this story leaves you wondering what comes next. A little irony thrown in the mix gives the ending a kind of twist that will put a smile on your face. Life always comes full circle, and that message is very well played out through this novel. 

-beth [Vixen 2]

Stolen Night - Rebecca Maizel

Stolen Night - Rebecca Maizel

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5 big pounding hearts
 
      Wow.Wow. Wow. Can I just say that I've been officially SHOCKED. First off. Hats off to Rebecca Maizel, for yet another astonishing novel. I was absolutely in love with Infinite Days, the first in the series. So, I could NOT wait to read this book. Even though it was released in the UK before US,(Jan. 29, 2013)I got super lucky that Rebecca is a complete saint. I was fortunate enough to receive a copy earlier than US release.

      Stolen Night is a heart-breaking and intense story that will amaze, bewilder, stun, and embrace you. In the first novel I had a never ending battle between Rhode and Justin. I'm here to tell you, it has continued. Until the very end... How would you handle being irrevocably in love with someone you know is your soulmate, but you'll never be able to actually be with said person!? that? I'm pretty sure I'd act the same as Lenah. *sigh*

     My heart broke my so many times because of the tragic love story that is Lenah and Rhode. Rhode being more present in this novel was definitely a big bonus in my eyes. He's so alluring, distant, and mystifying. However, Tragedy unfolds itself over and over in this novel. Being indescribably torn between Rhode and Justin was heart breaking in itself. And if I'm going to be honest to myself, I've completely fallen for Vicken. I know what you're thinking.. after what he did in Infinite days, how could I like him? Hah. Just wait. You'll be saying the same thing! I adored his witty humor and well, everything about him.

I’m really shocked with how the story ends(?) but it was utterly fabulous.I'm thoroughly convinced that it's clear Rebecca has seriously poured her heart and soul into this series. Now I understand why the wait for this novel was what it was. Rebecca’s really raised the stakes for Vampire book authors, because Stolen Night was so unpredictable that you just don’t know which way the story will go. Prepare to be completely blown away. Forget what you thought you knew... You're about to take an amazing journey. If you haven't read Infinite Days, I suggest you go out and get it RIGHT MEOW! 

-beth [Vixen 2]

Enshadowed by Kelly Creagh

Title: Enshadowed
Author: Kelly Creagh
Pages: 429
Rating: 4 out of 5
From Goodreads:
True love takes a twisted turn in the second book of this modern gothic romance trilogy channeling the dark brilliance of Edgar Allan Poe.While Varen remains a prisoner in a perilous dream world where the terrifying stories of Edgar Allan Poe come to life, Isobel travels to Baltimore to confront the dark figure known throughout the world as the Poe Toaster. This man, the same man who once appeared to Isobel in her dreams and abandoned her in Varen’s nightmare world, holds the key to saving Varen.

     But when Isobel discovers a way to return to this dream world, she finds herself swept up in a realm that not only holds remnants of Edgar Allan Poe’s presence, but has also now taken on the characteristics of Varen’s innermost self. It is a dark world of fear, terror, and anger.

     When Isobel once more encounters Varen, she finds him changed. And now Isobel must face a new adversary—one who also happens to be her greatest love.--------------

“Is — is any of this real?" she asked. "Are you real?"

He lifted a hand to her cheek, his fingers brushing her jaw.

"Even if this is a dream," he whispered, "I'm not."

I've been waiting to read this book for two years. So long, in fact, that I had to go back and skim over Nevermore to refresh my memory. In Nevermore I fell in love with a withdrawn, mysterious, emo-esque boy and I never looked back. I loved Varen from page one. And I missed him terribly in Enshadowed. Dream Varen just wasn't enough for me. Thankfully, the book was enough for me, for now.

It's been months since that night when Isobel cut off connection to the dream world, where Varen is now stuck, after being betrayed by Reynolds. When Isobel realized that Reynolds is the famed “Poe Toaster” she knows that if she can get to him then she can get to Varen. Now Isobel is doing whatever she can, including creating a rift between herself and her family, to get to Baltimore in time to meet Reynolds. With the help of Gwen, the only person she trusts, she makes her way to Baltimore. But just like a dream, things are not always what they seem.

“That a single kiss from a boy who knew how to walk through dreams, who himself now seemed to be a dream, hadn't irrevocably altered her.”
Isobel was somewhat of a girl you love to hate in Nevermore. I like her much better now, but there's still something in the way of me loving her. Her love for Varen is so strong it controls her. He haunts her day and night, and all she wants is to get him back into the real world and into her life. Her single mindedness was a bit irritating at times, but I definitely understood.

Gwen was amazing. She is hilarious. I found myself laughing out loud many times while reading anything she said. I was really glad that she had Isobel's back through everything, even when she was terrified.

I love Pinfeathers. There is just something awesomely creepy, yet loveable about him. The Nocs were one of my favorite parts of Nevermore, so I was a little sad that they weren't really present.

Isobel's family is also great. Usually YA novels leave out family relationships. While it's not something that deters me from reading a book, it is a noted absence. Isobel's parents are worried about her, and they show it in a way any caring parent would. I especially love her little brother.

Enshadowed was beautifully written. Creagh is a very poetic writer. She created a world that I think Poe would love. I seriously hope that it won't be another two years before I get to return to that world.

-Kait[Vixen1]

Opal Trailer!

Opal (The third book in the Lux Series)
Available in both print and digital version on December 18, 2012
Amazon
Barnes and Noble

Official Opal Book Trailer





How amazing was that!? We are so excited to get our hands on Opal!

Check out Jennifer L. Armentrout on the following sites:
Facebook
Twitter
Official Website

Waiting On Wednesday #13

"Waiting on" Wednesday is  a weekly event hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases in which we are eagerly awaiting.

 SO I'm just going to post another joint WoW. Kait and I are both HIGHLY anticipating this book. As I'm sure you all know, we've been pretty dedicated to Jennifer L. Armentrout this week.  Sooo why not do our WoW on Opal!? I see no reason not to, considering it's coming SO SOON!!!!!!!  *Squeeeeeee* [insert Ultimate happy booknerd dance here.] -beth

Opal - Jennifer L. Armentrout

Expected Publication: December 18th 2012

 No one is like Daemon Black.

When he set out to prove his feelings for me, he wasn’t fooling around. Doubting him isn’t something I’ll do again, and now that we’ve made it through the rough patches, well... There’s a lot of spontaneous combustion going on.

But even he can’t protect his family from the danger of trying to free those they love.

After everything, I’m no longer the same Katy. I’m different... And I’m not sure what that will mean in the end. When each step we take in discovering the truth puts us in the path of the secret organization responsible for torturing and testing hybrids, the more I realize there is no end to what I’m capable of. The death of someone close still lingers, help comes from the most unlikely source, and friends will become the deadliest of enemies, but we won’t turn back. Even if the outcome will shatter our worlds forever.

Together we’re stronger... and they know it.






Don't forget to stop by our post of the new Opal Trailer HERE!

*What's your WoW? Post a comment and leave your WoW link 

so we can see what YOU are anticipating!* 

Onyx - Jennifer L. Armentrout

Well I guess I'll finish up the week with yet another JLA tribute! hehe. Last one, I promise! ....For now

Onyx - Jennifer L. Armentrout

 ♥♥♥♥♥

 

Jennifer, you did it AGAIN, but even bigger and better this time!!!!!!

Obviously, 5 fast beating hearts for this. Actually, 5 hearts wouldn't be enough! I loved this THAT much.

What can I say about this book that someone hasn't? Probably nothing. Onyx left me in a daze. My entire brain is just flustercucked! I'm not sure if I could be any more emotional right now. I can say though, i'm glad I don't have to wait as long as some of you have to get my next Daemon fix!

Y'know.. I really want to say Katy you're such a dumb bitch! BUT.. I totally understand why she does everything she does. And Daemon. Pfft. The things I would do and say to him. Oh right... let's keep this at least PG13. Now there are a few new characters in this installment of the Lux series. Blake has entered the picture.... at first I was like Oh here we go, love triangle! Hmmpf. If only things were that simple. Onyx is an intricate weaving of the good, bad, and the aliens! When I read the synopsis for this book, I cringed[in a good way]. I knew what was gonna happen.. I'd be yet again transfixed(which I was).

Let me just say, Obsidian was amazing. Onyx was amazement times infinity. Onyx will leave you breathless, speechless, but still panting for more. How is this possible!? I don't know.. but damn it it is!!! Once again, I'm gonna have to say YOU NEED TO READ THIS, RIGHT MEOW! but after you read Obsidian, Duh!! :) Don't be a douche-nozzle. Just do it. Per usual, I can not await the arrival of Opal. I might just give up my first unborn child to get my hands on a copy of it!! ;) 

-beth

Obsidian - Jennifer L. Armentrout

Obsidian - Jennifer L. Armentrout

♥♥♥♥♥

 

Holy hell.

     What words can you possibly say to describe this book? I'm seriously at a loss of words, and I almost forgot to even write the review! I dove right into Onyx.. right after I finished! Well I guess I should start off saying Jennifer L. Armentrout, I adore you.. in fact, Love you kitten! Not only did I have the great honor of meeting you this year, but I got to read your amazing novels!

      Katy and Daemon are probably one of my top 3 favorite "couples" EVER. The comedic banter along with the unforgettable angst between the two main characters is indescribable. Not only is this an story of epic proportion, but it takes you on a ride that you'll never forget. Aliens have never been so appealing and fun.

      Reviewing this without spoilers is pretty much preposterous! I love the characters, the writing, hell I just loved everything about this book. I'm pretty sure if I were ever to be a character in a book, I would want to be Katy. Oh and with Daemon's cocky attitude mixed with Katy's sass it made me smile and laugh every time I read it. 

Whatever you do...

 READ THIS BOOK!!!!! 

-Beth

Deity by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Title: Deity[Covenant #3]
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Pages: 360
Published: Spencer Hill Press
Rating: 5 out of 5

From Goodreads:
"History is on repeat, and things didn't go so well the last time. "

Alexandria isn't sure she's going to make it to her eighteenth birthday--to her Awakening. A long-forgotten, fanatical order is out to kill her, and if the Council ever discovers what she did in the Catskills, she's a goner... and so is Aiden.

If that's not freaky enough, whenever Alex and Seth spend time "training"--which really is just Seth's code word for some up-close and personal one-on-one time--she ends up with another mark of the Apollyon, which brings her one step closer to Awakening ahead of schedule. Awesome.

But as her birthday draws near, her entire world shatters with a startling revelation and she's caught between love and Fate. One will do anything to protect her. One has been lying to her since the beginning. Once the gods have revealed themselves, unleashing their wrath, lives will be irrevocably changed... and destroyed.

Those left standing will discover if love is truly greater than Fate...
-------------------

Damn you, Jennifer, damn you.

This is going to be a very hard review to write, but I am going to keep it spoiler free.

Deity was my favorite in the series so far. Every relationship that Alex has changes in this book. Alex's awakening has everyone on edge, especially Alex. She's terrified that her connection to Seth once she's a full blown Apollyon will cause her to lose herself. To make matters worse, someone she trusts is about to betray her.

I love when a book changes my mind, it means that the author is doing something very right. I think that JLA had every intention of making me fall for Seth in Pure. He was so sexy and funny. Then there was the vulnerability that was peeking through, and that was what pushed me over the Seth edge. I was never a huge Aiden fan, even in Half-Blood. Sure, I wanted Aiden & Alex to get together because I like when the character gets what they want, but I didn't have a great connection with Aiden. After reading Deity I can say that I am on Team Aiden.

Aiden... wow. I don't even know what to say about him. I'm sorry I doubted you! I knew how he felt about Alex, it's obvious to anyone who's paying attention, but I wasn't really believing. I didn't think he was willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for his love. Let's just say, I'm a believer now.

Seth, my poor Seth. Don't get me wrong, I love Seth. Even after all the Aiden love I was giving. Right now someone is looking at their computer screen like "wtf?". Yes, I still love Seth after reading Deity. Mostly for the same reason I fell for him in the first place, his vulnerability. Seth is still a mystery and I want to know more about him.

The Gods really come to play in this book as well. I loved the way they came around, some helpful and some... not so much. They were powerful, beautiful, and absolutely terrifying.

As with any JLA book, there were plenty of hilarious and aw-inducing lines. Here are a few of my favorites:


-"Yeah, I'm great. Nothing like witnessing a death match between gods when I'm trying to get some Cheetos." -Deacon

-“Don't look at me like I've kicked a baby pegasus into the street.”-Alex

-"I was staring at the mother effin' Sun God."-Alex

-“That simple act stole my breath, my heart. But even as he pulled away, I realized that he couldn't steal something he already had.”-Alex

-“You're too strong to ever lose yourself. I believe that. Why can't you?”-Aiden

I've always favored The Lux series over The Covenant series, but now I'm not so sure. Deity was my favorite JLA book to date. I can't wait to see what's going to happen in Apollyon.

-Kait