Tag Archives: review
Paper or Plastic
Paper or Plastic
Entangled: Teen
February 23, 2015
Paperback
352
Welcome to SmartMart, where crime pays minimum wage...
Busted. Alexis Dubois just got caught shoplifting a cheap tube of lipstick at the local SmartMart. She doesn’t know what’s worse—disappointing her overbearing beauty-pageant-obsessed mother for the zillionth time…or her punishment. Because Lex is forced to spend her summer working at the store, where the only things stranger than the staff are the customers.
Now Lex is stuck in the bizarro world of big-box retail. Coupon cutters, jerk customers, and learning exactly what a “Code B” really is (ew). And for added awkwardness, her new supervisor is the totally cute—and adorably geeky—Noah Grayson. Trying to balance her out-of-control mother, her pitching position on the softball team, and her secret crush on the school geek makes for one crazy summer. But ultimately, could the worst job in the world be the best thing that ever happened to her?
Review:
“Paper or Plastic” is exactly what it intends to be: a light ya romance and palate cleanser. It fulfills its purpose wonderfully.
The characters are engaging and fun, all of them with underlying issues that a revealed throughout the book. They grow a surprising amount as people given the length and lightness of the plot. It’s easy to find yourself relating to them in some way and I found myself more invested in their lives more than I expected to be.
The plot is solid and deals with some heavier issues like bullying, Alzheimer’s, and child abuse while somehow managing to keep the tone light and humorous for the most part. The writing is done in a style that makes it a quick read, and the teenagers speak like actual teenagers, which is something I am always appreciative of when digging in to a ya novel.
I can’t finish the review without noting that the author has very obviously worked at a retail chain of some sort in the past. The horrors of retail were enough to bring me back nightmares about my days at a grocery chain. In spite of the nightmares, reading about the customers had me literally laughing out loud. Well done, Vivi Barnes.
“Paper or Plastic” is obviously meant for the teen market, but there are few things explicit enough for parents of younger teens to worry about. I recommend it for those looking for a quick romantic read filled with humor and just the right amount of sweetness.
This review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warning:
Mild Sexual Situations, Brief Language, Child Abuse
Seeker
Seeker, Book 1
Juvenile Fiction
Delacorte Books for Young Readers
2015
448
Taking her Oath after a lifetime of training to be a Seeker who protects the weak and wronged in a near-future world, Quin is shattered to discover that her family and the boy she loves are not the people she thought they were. Simultaneous eBook.
Review:
It’s difficult to categorize “Seeker” because it spans across a wide range of genres. There are elements of fantasy, science fiction, dystopian, steampunk, and romance all rolled into a unique and compelling read.
The world building is amazing from the start, setting up what a reader needs to know while also leaving a lot of questions to be answered at later times. The plot flows at a consistent pace without lagging. As with the world itself, the backstory is revealed at a slow pace, leaving readers with only the answers they need and the desire to find out more.
The narrative is split between four characters in the rather rare third person limited point-of-view. It works very well in this situation, and none of the transitions between characters are jarring. All of them are brought to life in the reader’s mind, full of flaws and individual complexities. Also, for those who like finding a ship, you will probably find one before chapter 3.
I can’t wait for the second in the series and highly recommend “Seeker” for those who enjoy any of the genres listed above. Due to subject matter, I think it is most suited for those in the eighth grade and up.
This review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warning:
Language, Brief Sexual Situations, Violence, Drug and Alcohol Use
How (Not) to Fall in Love
How (Not) to Fall in Love
Entangled: Teen
February 3, 2015
Hardcover
352
Seventeen-year-old Darcy Covington never had to worry about money or where her next shopping spree was coming from. Even her dog ate gourmet. Then one day, Darcy’s car is repossessed from the parking lot of her elite private school. As her father’s business hit the skids, Dad didn’t just skip town, he bailed on his family.
Fortunately, Darcy’s uncle owns a thrift shop where she can hide out from the world. There’s also Lucas, the wickedly hot fix-it guy she can’t stop crushing on, even if she’s not sure they’ll ever get out of the friend zone.
But it’s here among the colorful characters of her uncle’s world that Darcy begins to see something more in herself...if she has the courage to follow it.
Review:
“How (Not) to Fall in Love” is the perfect palate cleanser that mixes romance with deeper issues, making it light but intelligent. Part romance, part mystery, and part family drama, it covers quite a wide range of subjects.
All of the characters are wonderfully flawed and do not fall prey to stereotypes, even though the other characters try to project them onto those who are different. They are well-developed and the dialogue is realistic and snarky. The male love interest is actually a decent guy who sets a good example for the type of relationships girls and boys should expect to have. Unfortunately, that is not always the case with young adult romances, so I’m always appreciative when it happens.
Mental illness and the effect it has on family members is also tackled and handled in a very sensitive manner. There are no miracles to make it go away, and the path is not an easy one. The realistic nature is something many people will be able to relate to, and it will also serve to help educate those without personal experiences.
While there is some adult content, none of it is explicit enough to keep middle readers from being able to read it and appreciate it, and parents can feel at ease with how everything is handled. This makes it a wonderful choice for romance lovers of almost any age.
This review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Content:
Mild Sexual Situations, Language, Drug Usage
Hades
Hades
Archer and Bennett, Book 1
Mystery
Kensington
January 27, 2015
Hardback
320
Review:
It has been quite some time since I have found a new and enjoyable mystery series that features both procedurals and a unique premise, but “Hades” definitely meets all of those requirements and more. If you read the description, it may sound like “Dexter”, but I can assure you there is very little resemblance.
The plot goes back and forth between the backstory of the twins Eden and Eric, along with their “father” Hades, and a first-person account by detective Frank Bennett of the current work of finding a prolific serial killer. On occasion there is also a third-person narrative of what is happening with the killer. The switches took a bit to get used to, but once they did I found them enjoyable.
The plot is fast and interesting, with quite a few surprises thrown in. It will be difficult for even the most enthusiastic mystery lovers to see where it all will end, making it the perfect mystery. The characters are deep and well-developed, with enough mystery surrounding them to make the reader look forward to the sequel. Unfortunately, writing much more would spoil the surprises, and where is the fun in that?
I recommend “Hades” for any mystery lovers out there with strong stomachs, as it can be gruesome at times.
This review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warning:
I don’t normally write content warnings for adult books, but please be aware that this novel contains animal death.
The Same Sky
Fiction
Ballantine Books
2015-01-20
288
A childless woman looking to adopt crosses paths with a 13-year-old Honduran girl who has embarked on a dangerous journey into Texas with her brother. By the author of How to Be Lost.
Review:
“The Same Sky” is an intense book told in the stark voices of two narrators, a girl from Honduras named Carla, and a woman from America named Alice. The two stories combine to make a haunting novel that will, hopefully, forever remain in the mind of the reader.
Alice, while she can be somewhat of annoying character, is a good representation of middle-class America. Her family has its own struggles and deal with the inability to have children. She and her husband run a small family business and live comfortably within their own bubble until the poverty that surrounds them becomes a part of their lives. I liked this subplot of the book, as it was a good example of the fact that poverty exists, quite literally, in our own backyards.
The story of Carla is eye-opening and disturbing. Her life in her village is vividly described, illustrating some of the many reasons people of all ages choose to risk the journey to the United States. I had no idea the trip is as difficult as it is, and I may have nightmares about it for quite some time.
I highly recommend “The Same Sky”. It brings a deep understanding to the struggles of others who share our world, and it sheds light on the reasons many illegal immigrant children are arriving at our borders alone. It is my hope that we can all come together to help others in need with this book in the backs of our minds. I know it will remain in mine.
This review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warning:
While I do not typically write content warnings for adult books, please be aware that there is rape, child, and drug abuse in this book.
Vivian Apple at the End of the World
Vivian Apple at the End of the World
Vivian Apple, Book 1
HMH Books for Young Readers
January 6, 2015
Hardcover
272
Seventeen-year-old Vivian Apple never believed in the evangelical Church of America, unlike her recently devout parents. But when Vivian returns home the night after the supposed "Rapture," all that’s left of her parents are two holes in the roof. Suddenly, she doesn't know who or what to believe. With her best friend Harp and a mysterious ally, Peter, Vivian embarks on a desperate cross-country roadtrip through a paranoid and panic-stricken America to find answers. Because at the end of the world, Vivan Apple isn't looking for a savior. She's looking for the truth.
Review:
The summary for “Vivian Apple at the End of the World”, while intriguing, sells the book far short. So much more occurs within different contexts during the course of the book. It is a contemporary romance, mystery, dystopia, and horror story all mixed into one good book.
The subject matter can be controversial, as organized religion is not exactly lauded, but I believe readers should look at it as satire. It brings up very important questions that are important that we all ask ourselves in a way that is very palatable for teenaged readers. What do we believe? What is important to us? Should we follow the crowd or go against the pressure of society? Is everything we are taught true?
The plot flows quickly, but not too quickly, and is anything but predictable. The characters are well-developed and there is a tongue-in-cheek humor that left me laughing out loud several times. Not to be ignored is the romance between Vivian and Peter. It is refreshingly devoid of “instalove” and develops in a way which is believable under the circumstances. That is always something worth noting in a young adult book.
I recommend it for teenagers and adults who enjoy a good satire that makes them think closely about religion and society, though it may be offensive to those with certain religious beliefs.
This review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warning:
Language, Sexual Situations, Underage Drinking and Drug Use, Violence.
Stone Faced Angel
Stone Faced Angel
The Stone Angels Saga, Book 1
February 1, 2015
275
There are some things I know for sure:
I died . . . A long time ago
Even in death I was always aware of him.
Love has a way of making even angels choose to leave their heaven above.
Review:
If I could give half stars, “Stone Faced Angel” would get 3 1/2.
The story of an angel coming to earth looking for love is definitely an intriguing plot, and it did deliver in moments. As is too often not the case, there was an actual love interest that is a good example of what to look for in a partner as opposed to being obnoxious and overbearing. The love story moved too quickly in my opinion, but it was not unrealistic enough to distract from the romance.
The main problem with the book is the pacing. The beginning seemed to be from an entirely different novel, then it sped up, then slowed down again. I would have preferred it to be more consistent, settling into a happy medium. At times things became a little too unrealistic, but overall it was a sweet story.
I would recommend “Stone Faced Angel” to those who are fans of “Fallen Angel” type stories and those who enjoy fantasies between this world and the next.
This review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warning:
Language, Sexual Situations
The Here and Now
Juvenile Fiction
Delacorte Press
2014
242
Seventeen-year-old Prenna, an immigrant who moved to New York when she was twelve, came from another time and she and the other travelers must follow strict rules to avoid destroying the new life they have worked so hard to get, as well as the one personPrenna is desperate to protect.
Review:
I don’t know whether I had high expectations because I loved “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” so much, or whether it was the book itself, but I found “The Here and Now” to be underwhelming.
The premise is original, and there is no real fault in the storytelling, but it seems like it would have been more suited to a short story. There was quite a bit of filler in regard to the plot and the romance felt sudden, jarring, and forced. The only character that seemed to be fully developed was the protagonist.
All of those being said, while there are sexual situations, it is a very easy and quick read that can easily appeal to younger middle readers. In spite of there being plot filler, it does flow well, and it is technically well-written.
I would recommend it for the younger set, but not for older young adults or adults.
This review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warning:
Mild Language, Brief Sexual Situations, Violence
Since You’ve Been Gone
Juvenile Fiction
Dundurn PressLtd
2015-01-24
224
On the run from her abusive father, fifteen-year-old Edie Fraser and her mother flee to London, England for a fresh start. But one day, Edie's mom doesn't come home from work. Afraid to phone the police and risk being returned to her father, Edie begins a desperate search for her mother, and finds an unlikely ally along the way.
Review:
“Since You’ve Been Gone” was a very difficult book to rate. It tackles some very difficult subjects, including domestic violence and racism. To be honest, I had no idea how rampant racism was in Great Britain until reading this novel, and the valuable education alone raised it from two stars to three. I’d like to thank the author, Mary Jennifer Payne, for making me more aware.
The problem with the book was not the plot but the pacing. It all seemed very rushed from one event to the next in a way that did not allow the reader to gain much understanding of each situation. It would have been much better had there been more details offered, even though it would have significantly increased the length. A story about such heavy topics deserves to be fully explored.
There were also a large amount of secondary characters that were completely unnecessary. They presented conflicts that had no resolution in some cases, and in others they just served to muddle the story. One character in particular did nothing for me but make me have an intense dislike of Edie, the protagonist.
It was not terrible, and I can neither recommend nor say it is to be avoided.
This book is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warning:
Language, Brief Sexual Situations, Violence, Domestic Violence
Golden Son
Red Rising, Book 2
Fiction
Del Rey
2015-01-06
464
With shades of The Hunger Games, Ender’s Game, and Game of Thrones, debut author Pierce Brown’s genre-defying epic Red Rising hit the ground running and wasted no time becoming a sensation. Golden Son continues the stunning saga of Darrow, a rebel forged by tragedy, battling to lead his oppressed people to freedom. As a Red, Darrow grew up working the mines deep beneath the surface of Mars, enduring backbreaking labor while dreaming of the better future he was building for his descendants. But the Society he faithfully served was built on lies. Darrow’s kind have been betrayed and denied by their elitist masters, the Golds—and their only path to liberation is revolution. And so Darrow sacrifices himself in the name of the greater good for which Eo, his true love and inspiration, laid down her own life. He becomes a Gold, infiltrating their privileged realm so that he can destroy it from within. A lamb among wolves in a cruel world, Darrow finds friendship, respect, and even love—but also the wrath of powerful rivals. To wage and win the war that will change humankind’s destiny, Darrow must confront the treachery arrayed against him, overcome his all-too-human desire for retribution—and strive not for violent revolt but a hopeful rebirth. Though the road ahead is fraught with danger and deceit, Darrow must choose to follow Eo’s principles of love and justice to free his people. He must live for more. Advance praise for Golden Son “Pierce Brown is a prodigy. As great as the first book of the Red Rising Trilogy is, Golden Son is even better. A wild ride full of suspense, intrigue, and serious ass-kicking bravado, it’s expertly written and emotionally engaging, with top-notch universe-building that begs for further exploration. I want more!”—Christopher Golden, New York Times bestselling author of Snowblind “The stakes are even higher than they were in Red Rising, and the twists and turns of the story are every bit as exciting. The jaw-dropper of an ending will leave readers hungry for the conclusion to Brown’s wholly original, completely thrilling saga.”—Booklist (starred review) “Dramatic . . . the rare middle book that loses almost no momentum as it sets up the final installment.”—Publishers Weekly “Darrow is an assertive hero. . . . Comparisons to The Hunger Games and Game of Thrones series are inevitable, for this tale has elements of both.”—Kirkus Reviews Praise for Pierce Brown’s Red Rising “[A] spectacular adventure . . . one heart-pounding ride . . . Pierce Brown’s dizzyingly good debut novel evokes The Hunger Games, Lord of the Flies, and Ender’s Game. . . . [Red Rising] has everything it needs to become meteoric.”—Entertainment Weekly “[A] top-notch debut novel . . . Red Rising ascends above a crowded dystopian field.”—USA Today “Compulsively readable and exceedingly entertaining . . . [a] must for both fans of classic sci-fi and fervent followers of new school dystopian epics.”—Examiner.com “A story of vengeance, warfare and the quest for power . . . reminiscent of The Hunger Games and Game of Thrones.”—Kirkus Reviews “Fast-paced, gripping, well-written—the sort of book you cannot put down.”—Terry Brooks From the Hardcover edition.
Review:
The first thought I had when I finished reading “Golden Son” is that there is no way I can wait an entire year to find out what happens next. My second thought was a mass of self-pity that I have no choice but to wait. Finally, my third thought was that it was an amazing follow-up to “Red Rising” and was actually even better than the first in the series.
Pierce Brown has built an amazing world and mythology for the Red Rising series. Everything is fully fleshed out and even when not explicitly written, you can tell he has a backstory in mind for all of the races. It’s a pleasure whenever you find out more, and at no point does it contradict anything that was previously written.
One of my favorite aspects of the characters in “Golden Son” is that none of them are perfect. Darrow, the protagonist, is extremely flawed. No character is good or bad, even those who are the clear villains of the story. All of the characters from “Red Rising” experienced a great deal of growth in “Golden Son”, with many not taking a route you would expect. There were some particularly bold moves by the author when it comes to Eo, but I will leave those for the reader to discover on their own.
At no point does the plot lag, and that is saying quite a bit for a novel the length of “Golden Son”. It is filled with war, adventure, gore, fantasy, science-fiction, romance, and anything else you can fit into a book. If you are a fan of “Red Rising”, make sure you clear a couple of days on your calendar, because you will not want to put this one down. If you have never read the first in the series, I highly encourage you to do so and to be certain you have “Golden Son” ready to begin as soon as you finish the last page of “Red Rising”.
In short, I highly recommend “Golden Son”, but do need to caution that it is not for the squeamish. It is also not a young adult novel, though I saw “Red Rising” categorized in many places as such, so that is something for parents of middle readers to keep in mind.
5 stars all the way.
This review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warning:
I generally only do these for young adult books. However, this book is extremely violent and gory, and it does have just about every adult theme imaginable. You have been warned.
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