ARC Review | 20 Years Later by E.J. Newman

Title: 20 Years Later

Author: E.J. Newman

Publisher: Dystopia Press

Publication Date: July 5th, 2011

Pages: 313

Chapters: 32

Original Language: English

Source: *Publisher

Summary via Goodreads

LONDON, 2012: It arrives and with that the world is changed into an unending graveyard littered with the bones, wreckage, and memories of a dead past, gone forever.LONDON, 2032: Twenty years later, out of the ashes, a new world begins to rise, a place ruled by both loyalty and fear, and where the quest to be the first to regain lost knowledge is an ongoing battle for power. A place where laws are made and enforced by roving gangs-the Bloomsbury Boys, the Gardners, the Red Lady's Gang-who rule the streets and will do anything to protect their own.THE FOUR: Zane, Titus, Erin, Eve. Living in this new world, they discover that they have abilities never before seen. And little do they know that as they search post-apocalyptic London for Titus' kidnapped sister that they'll uncover the secret of It, and bring about a reckoning with the forces that almost destroyed all of humanity.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

20 Years Later is actually my very first post-apocalyptic novel read. Sometime ago, I actually don't have an idea the difference between post-apocalyptic and dystopian book. While absorbing the knowledge in my head, I was compelled and interested on reading this one. Let's find out shall we?

PLOT. WOW! From the prologue until the epilogue of the book is simply astonishing. The idea of creating the new world is really brilliant. The thought of the nearest destruction of the entire civilization with the gangs and our four dearest protagonist actually amazes me!

They way the book was written is exactly the way I wanted it. Simple but there are many things going on. It is not confusing and easy to adapt. The creativity and originality of creating it's world is fantastic! It makes the readers' mind to picture this world that is mentioning. Newman is a very good author. She created this world with full of surprises, she bought such a believable story of emotions and with the twist of the protagonists special abilities. In short, the writing is very fresh and new, making all of her readers attached to the book. 

CHARACTERS. Characters are all so goodie! Each of our four protagonist is very different from each other. Individually, they have their own story to share, their emotions and how their lives flow to the world they are into. But when all of them shared one purpose or connect to each other, it is more ravishing. They became one in such an amazing way.

Each of our protagonists have these different characteristics which is very likable in their own way. Zane, the soft and naive one. Titus, the smart and with a strong will and Erin, the tough with a good heart. While, Eve, the fourth whom I was very interested in. She wasn't been introduced not until the middle of the book but I think that she is more of a cute and innocent one. If you're are going to ask me, I really don't know who would be my favorite character.

In addition to the story, other characters such as Miri, Jay, Luthor and a lot more contributed big time! They adds more drama, action and mystery to the story. It gives the kick and excitement that the readers need.

FLAW? There is one at the first few chapters. The pacing is a bit slow. I was looking for the best part of it. But overall the greatest things I read inside this book. I loved each and every pages.

OTHER THOUGHTS. I have mentioned that I am very picky on the book how it ends. Well... This one didn't disappoints me. It was satisfying and it definitely makes me anticipate the next installment. Awesome! :D

20 Years Later is one of the best book I've this 2011. Brilliant and compelling. A worthy read! Salute to E.J. Newman! :D

*I received this ARC from the Publisher, Dystopia Press and to Mr. Mark Long in exchange for my honest review. Thank you so much for this wonderful opportunity!

OVERALL RATING

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ARC Review | Bandits by L.M. Preston

Bandits by L.M. Preston

Publisher: Phenomenal One Press

Date Published: June 1, 2011 [on Paperback]

Pages: 323 [ARC]
Chapters: 60 [ARC]

Original Language: English

Source: Author & Publisher*

Summary

Daniel's father has gotten himself killed and left another mess for Daniel to clean up. To save his world from destruction, he must fight off his father's killers while discovering a way to save his world. Time is running out, and Daniel must choose to either walk in his father's footsteps or to reinvent himself into the one to save his world.

[via Goodreads] 

* * * * * * * * * * 

The author of this book has requested me to review this book. And definitely, I said YES! I have been waiting for this book to arrive on my mail last month and thankfully, it finally came. My first review this May. Let’s begin shall we?

The Plot. Wow, it’s just wow! Few of the books I read with some chapters are somewhat dull, not that I don’t actually enjoyed it. But this book never gave me that dull moment. I am very surprised that every counted chapter here is jam-packed with something that will make you drawn to read it more. Essentially, there is something always going on! It was never boring from the start ‘til the ending of the book.

The storyline submerged with not just cool-amazing actions but it was also filled with drama, humor, suspense and romance. Blend it with adventure and sci-fi, you’re going to enjoy this book! In addition, the story holds beyond our imagination. It’s creativity—the universe, events, people, creatures and such—are distinct and original, it will make you feel more in a different world. It is not just a common adventure you are riding on.

Everything is new and fresh and never boring. Even it was written; the statements and description of the things like the Sea of Fire [which is my favorite] mentioned here are interesting and fun. Your curiosity on how would it looks like depends on the person who reads this book. Great? Definitely! The words are precise and you may able to grasp the knowledge of something new, easily. :]

The Characters. The highlight of the story is the reason of the death of Daniel’s father. So you would probably wonder that Daniel is the only focus of the story. Well… Wrong! There are lots of characters involved to the story, not just Daniel himself. They practically part of the whole book. Without each and every one of them, the story is worth nothing to understand and to appreciate.

There is some character switching. For example, in some chapter, Daniel’s feelings, thoughts and pain are focused on how he reacts on his surroundings. How he reacts and moves. What he sees and experience. And after the next chapter, a different character is placed over, for instance Jade. Then Nickel, Faulk and got back to Daniel again. Which is very unique for me.

Aside from that, each of them is easy to like. Faulk is my favorite, by the way. The romance give the book a kick, there is not much of caressing and intimate love, just kissing and hugging. So we’re on a safe zone. :]

Tiny Flaw. There is not much of a shocker here. I wasn’t surprised knowing who the culprit of killing Daniel’s father is. The answer is already written there, you just have to figure it out by yourself. Though the soul purpose of the story and the reason Daniel and his gang stated their adventure. Gave it an extra point. But I wasn’t that astounded. The surprise factor in this book is set off in low. Making some twist should probably—just my opinion—can make it even better.

Bandits gave me a great and awesome adventure beyond the universe. An adventure that will make your imagination put to test. I enjoyed it from start to finish! A worthy read! :]

I definitely recommend this book for everyone who wants some Sci-fi adventure. It is new and very fresh! A great salute to L.M. Preston! :]

*I received this ARC from the author, L.M. Preston and publisher Phenomenal One Press,in exchange for my honest review. Thank you so much for this wonderful opportunity! :]

OVERALL RATING

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Book Review | Falling Under by Gwen Hayes

Falling Under by Gwen Hayes

Publisher: New American Library

Date Published: March 1, 2011

Pages: 324

Chapters: 26

Original Language: English

Source: Borrowed [Thanks Mia!]

Summary

Theia Alderson has always led a sheltered life in the small California town of Serendipity Falls. But when a devastatingly handsome boy appears in the halls of her school, Theia knows she's seen Haden before- not around town, but in her dreams.

As the Haden of both the night and the day beckons her closer one moment and pushes her away the next, the only thing Theia knows for sure is that the incredible pull she feels towards him is stronger than her fear.

And when she discovers what Haden truly is, Theia's not sure if she wants to resist him, even if the cost is her soul.

[via Goodreads]

* * * * * * * * * *

My friend told me to read this book. She said, it is a great read. I wasn't very eager at first. But to be honest, the cover really is tempting. So I borrowed her copy and went over to glue my eyes on it. So... What do I think after it? Let's find out.

The Plot. At first, it was just simple. However, each turning pages, things are gotten intense. Like the fire is getting hotter and hotter in minutes. The intensity of the plot grew, and the best part is... It never falls down.

The storyline is written well. Each paragraph was formed in a very understandable way, easy to pick up. And it doesn't mess your head to think and think. Simple yet detailed and precised. Emotions of the story were mixed up pretty well. All those, drama, love, fear, excitement and humor. Combines with a great author. The book ended up, brilliantly.

The flow of the story 'til the end is wicked awesome! It was never boring to me. It was beyond my expectations. What I meant is... I was stunned to find that unexpected turns of events. I was practically speechless that moment of my reading spree. This one just not include what the reason of Haden being with Theia but how the book was written and how it gives an impact to me. Which results to be a book-to-be-loved! :]

The ending is nicely done! Instead of feeling of unsatisfactory, instead it has given me the urge to wait for the next installment! Up is Down. Down is Up? Goodness gracious! I am actually out of words to say great things about this book! :]

The Characters. I must say, I love everyone involves to the story. How it mixed up, contributes and being a part of it just a little. I loved it all! Theia is a lovable female protagonist. I read characters mostly had their first in all [I mean falling in-love and some other things] but this one is pretty great. She is in a equilibrium of strong and weak -- Or may I call it stweak. lol! Anyway, she is one of my best female characters now. Aside from Theia, who wouldn't forget about Haden *shrieks* [Yeah, let's be gay here! lmao!]. He's a great pair-up with Theia. I am practically drooling to both of them!

I am very grateful that Amelia, Donny, Varnie and Matt. Has a great contribution to the story. Beside being involved and everything. They're the reasons as well, making it more interesting and fun to read. Best and all! :]

Flaw? No way, Jose! I don't think of any flaw and if there is.. I don't care! [Talk about cold shoulders]. :]

Other Thoughts. If my overall rating different. I would rate this one a 10 Stars or maybe even more! I am an instant fan! I'm going myself to buy a copy of this one and can't wait for the next installment! :]

I extremely recommend this book to everyone! You are not gonna regret this buying this book! It is deserving to include in your bookshelves! Falling Under gives us a great reading pleasure of YA Paranormal Romance! An outstanding applause for Gwen Hayes! :]

OVERALL RATING

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ARC Review | Zombies Don't Cry: A Living Dead Love Story by Rusty Fischer

Zombies Don't Cry: A Living Dead Love Story by Rusty Fischer

Publisher: Medallion Press, Inc.

Release Date: May 1, 2011 [on paperback]

Pages: 296 [ARC]

Chapters: 32 [ARC] 

Original Language: English

Source: Author & Publisher*

Summary

In the sleepy small town of Barracuda Bay, Maddy Swift leads the life of a fairly typical teenager, but while attending a party one night, Maddy is struck by lightning and awakens to realize she has been reanimated and turned into a zombie. While becoming acquainted with her new "lifestyle," Maddy stumbles upon two unexpected undead chaperones, fellow students Dane and Chloe, who begin to teach her the ways of zombie life, including defending the populace from Zerkers—the bad zombies. Together, on prom night, the three teens must ultimately defend Barracuda Bay High from an all-out zombie Armageddon.

[via Goodreads]

* * * * * * * * * *

I've been keeping my eyes on this book for quite sometime now and I finally got myself an ARC for a review. I was surprised receiving this mail, I was hysterical! lol! Anyway, I finished this book last Saturday and today I am posting my review regarding to this awesome book. Let's start shall we?

The Plot. The storyline obviously related to zombies. The first thing will pop into our minds that, it is just another mindless eating humans. Actually, this book is way more beyond that. I usually watched movies, that zombies had only one reason to live -- And that is to eat humans. Zombies Don't Cry have something more... originality and freshness. I ask you, how do zombies turned into zombies anyway? Usually, the answer is a virus and then you're one of them, so the cycle starts on eating each other, right? This book is not like that. There is more logical and detailed explanation about it and I found out it in this book. Cool? Definitely! :]

There isn't much of a shocker here though not all books have to have a dumb-founding scenarios. I may say, I am still drawn to read it up to its last page. The narration from the protagonist point of view has a simple yet unique way of telling it. To be honest, Maddy [our dear MC], is one of those funniest narrator in a books I read, is very awesome, I loved her!

Fischer written it so very comprehensible, each words are easy to be picked up. There were no tying-knots making me think too much or turning me to a confused nut-job but it was given an exact point. Like you added sugar on your coffee and it tastes right. No more, no less.

I love how the book is not only focused on how to became a zombie. Focuses also on friendship, betrayal, trust, loss, sacrifice and love. Which is great to add up to the story. Fischer really is a great author! :]

The Characters. Maddy is a great, cool and awesome protagonist. I loved it when she is adding some of her funny side comments even on desperate times. Which seems to be a little bit relieving for me. First, you are intently reading what is says and then, pop!, there she goes with her side comment. Making you roll in laughter just in time for the next climax of the story. She even progresses from start 'til the end. At the beginning, she's just a shadow behind someones back and then changed to a different person [aside on becoming a zombie]. You're definitely gonna love her like a snap! :]

Stamp, it's not a stamp from a mail but a male MC of the story. Actually, I think there are 2 male MC's here, him and Dane. They're both great and good addition to the book. Of course, they are Maddy's love triangle. *giggles* If you're asking me whom I will choose, the fact is... I really don't know whom I want for Maddy. This is the only book [I think] that I am not sure who is the perfect partner for the female MC. I am really confused, on this part. Cuz both are great for her. ARGH! I really don't know how to answer it! lol! XD Every character is very easy to carry around that this book never losses it sense of humor. 

Flaw? I am thinking of something though I don't have one. Which is cool, that means this book is totally wicked awesome! If there is... tell me but I am going to refuse it anyway, lol! I love this book so much! :]

Other Thoughts. The last chapter turns out to be quite different, I came from laughing and laughing then all of a sudden I went some place deeper in feelings for the characters. At the end there is something odd happened, guessing it, that this books had a part two. I hope so because I actually don't want the story to end like that. But i am quite sure there will be a next installment.

I have so many great things to say about this book that I can't even put it in here or maybe I am just out of words. Zombies Don't Cry is clean, clear, smart and absolutely fun to read! Each pages are never boring and surely you won't put this book down! I highly recommend this for the readers-in-love with Paranormal Romance and others who just want to have something new from the YA community! A well deserve salute for Rusty Fischer! :]

*I received this advance readers copy from the author, Rusty Fischer and publisher Medallion Press, Inc. in exchange for my honest review. Thank you so much for this wonderful opportunity! :]

 

OVERALL RATING

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Book Review | Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Publisher: Scholastic Press

Release Date: August 24, 2010

Pages: 390

Chapters: 27

Original Language: English

Source:Owned, Bought

Summary

Young Katniss Everdeen has survived the dreaded Hunger Games not once, but twice, but even now she can find no relief. In fact, the dangers seem to be escalating: President Snow has declared an all-out war on Katniss, her family, her friends, and all the oppressed people of District 12. The thrill-packed final installment of Suzanne Collins' Hunger Games trilogy will keep young hearts pounding.

[via Goodreads]

* * * * * * * * * * 

A brilliant book to end the trilogy. And I am planning to reread it again sometime soon. Let's see how it goes...

The Plot.  A great taste of change of the book. This seems even darker than Catching Fire and more intense. It was really, entirely different from the first two books. At the first flip of the page. It is on high standards of reading. No lay-low on this one. Some I think every pages are on the climax which keeps me pumped up.

Good thing, humors breaks the ice. And I am very glad of it. It sends away some unfortunate scenes. There were a lot, I mean -- A lot of surprises here. I don't actually count how many of it. lol! Great revelations, turns of events, breath-taking actions and a lot more! Ohhh... This book keeps my blood on the rush! Awesome! :]

Just like the first to books, this one has detailed-maniac! Details from the writing is great and very understandable. You may not able to predict something is happening unless you read the full book. :]

The Characters. Things changed, really. And I love it how each and every characters grew and progresses here. I am so amazed how Katniss became more stronger, there are times I actually though she is Katniss at all.

I felt so bad when someone left or should I say gone in the story. Some of them, I felt so bad when it happens. Trust me, you'll feel the same way too and ask yourself, "Why on earth did that character died." I wasn't annoyed or anything. I really felt so bad, I feel like crying that moment. It is sad to know that sometimes, characters who had contributed on the story suddenly taken from his/her life. It was a bummer, but I just thought of it, that t makes the book contained more drama beside from the action and the others. Obviously, it affects me a lot -- Big time. In which results to a bigger applause. It is like the moment when Rue died on Katniss' arms right?

Collins is never tired creating new faces on the story. Making it less boring, not that I say it is boring. This book is never boring just to clear it out.

Other than that. Peeta really turned to be very, very, very different. I felt pity and surprise. Still, I liked him for Katniss. I'm a Peeta fan you know. Well, this book actually answers the question: WHO WILL KATNISS CHOOSE? Only one way to find out right? Read it! :]

Tiny Flaw. I am not satisfied about the epilogue, though. I hate to admit it but actually I am. I was anticipating a simple yet brilliant ending. I like how everything happens to Panem after all the disasters. Loved how Katniss' life turns out on the future. However, I felt it is not enough to end a simple -- just simple ending. Nothing more, nothing less. It was like, "Okay, it ends." - and that's it! I felt something is missing.

Weird, I wasn't happy how it turns out. But I love each contents except from what I mentioned earlier. In addition, just few parts turns for me to be confusing at first. Especially the part I must say, shocked me. I don't think I was confused or I am just probably don't want to accept those three words. I kept going back to that part just to assure it was true. Odd thing is... It is true. So I need to grasp that truth and get on with it.

Other Thoughts. I am not saying things in a negative way but that's what I felt. Especially some characters whom I loved to read just... went gone. I felt so much sadness for them. Though, I am glad that this book really affects me so much. Overall, Mockingjay ends with a BANG! :]

If you want to know how everything ends on Katniss' dangerous adventure. I highly recommend this book! And perfect book to end the trilogy! :]

OVERALL RATING

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Book Review | Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

Publisher: Scholastic Press

Release Date: September 1, 2009

Pages: 391

Chapters: 27

Original Language: English

Source:Owned, Bought

Summary

Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark won the annual competition described in Hunger Games, but the aftermath leaves these victors with no sense of triumph. Instead, they have become the poster boys for a rebellion that they never planned to lead. That new, unwanted status puts them in the bull's-eye for merciless revenge by The Capitol.

 [via Goodreads]

* * * * * * * * * *

I have become deliberately addicted on The Hunger Games. Thanks to my friend, I wouldn’t love this book. Well, as you can see… I am now! I awarded myself a complete set of the trilogy a few weeks ago. And I didn’t disappoints me for the second time. Let’s see what I thought about Catching Fire.

The Plot. The first book really is great. The fight sequence, dramas and all. Catching Fire totally reached to its new level. It became darker and menacing. The feeling of excitement and anticipation drives you to finish reading it.

Details of the story is so precise, you’ll actually feel that you’re in the actual book. Collins amazed me on how brilliantly she wrote Catching Fire. It was do amazing it really blew me away. I was completely breathless. The contents of originality was in depth and precise. Every intensive action was literally to be loved.

In my love of action on the arena. Catching Fire never disappoints me. At first I thought there were no games involved at all. Well, I am definitely wrong. This part is not a spoiler, if you think so jump on the next part of this review. The part two of this book is about The Quell. That is more I could say and I’ll let you discover it more about it yourselves. That is my most favorite scene ever written on this book. Awesomely, it was described perfectly and very fresh. I was applauding on how cool that was. I was surprised about it, when I found the most detailed explanation about the arena. Goodness! I really love this book! :]

There are more from this book than it appears to. Unexpected and unwanted events truly make me marked this one as my most favorite book of the trilogy. Allegiance, trust, lies, sacrifice and all of that – totally a great piece of work!

The Characters. I am amazed by the progress of the characters. There are new faces to acknowledge and some are taken off the picture. [No spoiling here] I am proud how Katniss grew on this one and how obvious how vulnerable she is without Peeta. Ohhh… Peeta! Lol! Aside from them. Gale has been one on the focus. Remember that he usually mentioned by Katniss on The Hunger Games. Well, fortunately for him, he has a part here now. You will learn how he truly acts and not just by mentioning from Katniss herself.

Everything has changed from the first book. I mean everything. I am glad to know about Finnick, Johanna and a lot more. They contributed much and it makes this book more interesting and alluring to read.

Well, this does involves Gale and wondering who I will choose for Katniss. I should say, I am still voting for Peeta. Just like I mentioned about my review of The Hunger Games last month. I vote Peeta for Katniss! Peeta! Peeta! Peeta!  :]

Flaw? Nope. This is a remarkable piece of art. It truly devours me so much on loving it more. It’s been awhile I read this book and I only posted my review about this just now. I can still remember that whole scenario of the book. No flaws can’t take my eyes off this one! :]

A great 2^nd installment for The Hunger Games Trilogy. It is promising that I am definitely sure you’re gonna love this one! I extremely recommend this book! Collins really caught me off-guard on Catching Fire! A great salute for this one! *applause*

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ARC Review | In The Arms Of Stone Angels by Jordan Dane

In The Arms Of Stone Angels by Jordan Dane

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Release Date: April 1, 2011

Pages: 313 [eARC]

Chapters: 19 [eARC] 

Original Language: English

Source: NetGalley* 

Summary

Two years ago I did a terrible thing. I accused my best friend of being a killer after seeing him kneeling over a girl's body. That moment and that outcast boy still haunt me.
Now my mom is forcing me back to Oklahoma and I can't get White Bird out of my mind. But when I find out he's not in juvie—that he's in a mental hospital, locked in his tormented brain at the worst moment of his life—I can't turn my back on  him again.

No one wants me to see him. My mom doesn't trust me. The town sheriff still thinks I was involved in the murder. And the other kids who knew the dead girl are after me.

I'm as trapped as White Bird. And when I touch him, I get sucked into his living hell, a vision quest of horrifying demons and illusions of that night. Everything about him scares me now, but I have to do something. This time I can't be a coward. This time I have to be his friend.

Even if I get lost, as well…

[via Goodreads]

* * * * * * * * * *

This book never occurred to me to be a bomb-shell. Well, I guess first impression never last and needed to give it a second or a third look. I though this book is angel-related, obviously, the word angel is mentioned but it is not. Once I started reading it, I was getting more intrigued and can't help reading it more. Let's see what I think about this book.

The Plot. At first, the first pages, the MC only mentioned only some typical teenager life but little by little, things get changed. It does makes me drawn to read it more. Whatever happens unexpected, my heart skipped a beat and I have a feeling there is more from this one.

Every words are easy to pick up or should I say easy to understand. The writing is in so much details that you are actually picturing the scene in your head. I felt like I was watching a movie inside my mind. Though there are not much of a humor still there is some, I actually, love how everything turns out. 

There is this amazing twist at the end and I actually see it coming! I was really surprised to finally found out about it! How cool is that! It like a special cereal box that has a surprise inside! And I will definitely devoured it in one sitting!

I heaved a grateful sigh on how brilliant this book is. There has been this predictability -not so much for a flaw -  but I guess the author intended to do it because there are so much more to the story which unruly unexpected and totally stunned me in amazement.

The Characters. Thankfully, this one do not focused on our female protagonist in which she tells the story in her POV. Like, Deputy Tate and the others who mainly involves to the mystery beheld to the story. Has their own parts. Everything is easy to love and of course - hate. Not the hate of the book but their way of thinking and attitude in the story.

I felt a huge pity with Brenna. Awww... I felt so bad about what they did to her, though somewhat it was very empowering. She begins at the weakest point in the story and then she begins to progress slowly. I do admire her so much and for her love with White Bird. Well, White Bird is an half-indian and also the most important character in the story. Guess what? I won't spill a spoiler out! lol! However, this is the first time I read an half-Indian to be a male protagonist. Even though I watched the movie, Indian In The Cupboard. But it result to be a good thing because there is this main purpose why he is an Indian. 

Flaw? Nah! I don't think there's a flaw unless you have seen one when you read this yourself. To me it is thrilling, exciting, breath-taking, heart-stopping book. That should be in your bookshelves  for sure.

You're going to love how Brenna unravels the ultimate mystery of her haunted past two years ago of her life. And I definitely recommend this book for those who wants to have a thrilling sensation and stunning revelations you wouldn't forget. I assure you, you won't regret getting this one! A great salute for Jordan Dane! :]

*I received this free eGalley via from publisher Harlequin Teen via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thanks guys!^^

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Short Story Review | Jump by Jen Wylie

Jump by Jen Wylie
Publisher: Echelon Press
Release Date: December 8, 2010
Pages: 16 [ebook]
Chapters: none
Original Language: English
Source: From the Author*

Summary

If you were told to jump off of a bridge would you?

Perhaps it would depend on who was doing the asking. Our heroine has spunk and a sense of humor, however suffers from an extreme case of inappropriate clothing. When things take a turn from dangerous to worse what will she do when fantasy becomes reality? Warning: May include hot leather clad men, singing and demons.

 [via Goodreads]

* * * * * * * * * *

I have requested this copy from the author, Jen Wylie for a review. All I can say is thank you very much for approving.

This review is only short, so as the book implies. I have seen a few great reviews about this and wondered I should try this one out. Well, this one didn’t get me down. Let’s us see what I think about this one.

Short Plot. The setting occurred in only one place. On a bridge. It really makes me intrigued on everything on this one. Everything holds up a mystery, not same as the other short stories around. It was really cool!

Other than that, it makes me laugh. Seriously, by this short story, it definitely hits me with this one! Kum Bah Yah! lol! There was a part of intensity but at same time, it does make you smile or giggle. Thanks to our brave dear female character. :]

Characters.  Our awesome protagonist is a bar-girl-with-no-name, which tells the story in her point of view. When every time she is mentioning serious, instead, she is making it really funny. I loved her with that attitude. Aside from her, there was this hot-guy, who appears to be the male protagonist.

I can’t say much because this one is giving me some bunch of mysterious auras. There are no name’s involved, and it really helps you wonder what on earth is going on. I am so intrigued on what happened next with an ending part that really got me stirred up on much more stimulating to know what it is.

Definitely going to wait for the next part of this story and hoped that this short story can be a novel. It’s just a suggestion, though. An awesome Short Story from Jen Wylie! *applause*

*I received this free ebook copy from the author Jen Wylie for allowing me to provide my honest review. Thank you so much! :]

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Book Review | The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting
Publisher: HarperCollins
Date Published: February 15, 2011 [on paperback]
Pages: 353
Chapter: 28 
Original Language: English

Source: Owned 

Summary

Violet Ambrose is grappling with two major issues: Jay Heaton and her morbid secret ability. While the sixteen-year-old is confused by her new feelings for her best friend since childhood, she is more disturbed by her "power" to sense dead bodies—or at least those that have been murdered. Since she was a little girl, she has felt the echoes the dead leave behind in the world . . . and the imprints that attach to their killers.

Violet has never considered her strange talent to be a gift; it mostly just led her to find dead birds her cat left for her. But now that a serial killer is terrorizing her small town, and the echoes of the local girls he's claimed haunt her daily, Violet realizes she might be the only person who can stop him.

Despite his fierce protectiveness over her, Jay reluctantly agrees to help Violet find the murderer—and Violet is unnerved by her hope that Jay's intentions are much more than friendly. But even as she's falling intensely in love, Violet is getting closer and closer to discovering a killer . . . and becoming his prey herself.

[via Goodreads]

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I have heard so much about this book and I was left behind not knowing how great really this book is. I don't want to dilly-dally anymore and let's begin shall we?

The Plot. WOW! Just absolutely WOW! The whole storyline seems to have made me stunned to express such wonderful book. This YA mystery-thriller really gives me the appetite of wanting to read the next sequel. *laughs*

For me the plot was original and creative. It is not like a typical 6th-sense-thingy we usually watch on television, this one is very unique and interesting on its own way. Believe me how this book is well-written by Derting.

I like that this one isn't one of the books written on a characters POV. I am not against it though. The highlight is of course more on Violet's issue on Jay and her secret ability. And the great part that it has scenes which focuses on the killer himself, I don't think this would be a spoiler cuz it holds up the thrill on the book. And I never guess who would it be until I finished the entire book. How cool is that?

Aside from the intensity part of the book. Nothing is best for humor and love. it eventually drew me closer on reading it. There are ignorance parts on it and send me laughing, some were just so unexpected and I still went on laughing. It was a great feeling. And for the love part, Violet and Jay's story is still glued in my thoughts now. And I love to see more from them. *giggles*

The Characters. OH. MY. GOD. I was so enthralled on Violet's ability though it was scary and to her feelings to Jay. I can't help it how it progress from start to finish. I would say this has given me a great impact and wanted even more! I am now a big fan of Vi and Jay's team up! <3

Minor characters, such as, Vi's parents, her uncle... I would say all the people who has a part was brilliant. Especially, when there is Vi's circle friends, Chelsea, Claire and Jules. Oh you won't feel jaded, it will make you laugh all the way. I was contagious!

I don't want to spoil anything because this book really hits me to the bones. I just wanted you guys to know how I felt with with this one! And it was so awesomely amazing! Each page  was never, ever boring to me! My eyes was glued and even forgot how long I've been reading this book! And I'd love to read this over and over again! :]

I wanted to feel more of the thrilling ride, the creepy sensation, the indisputably great humors and the love-giggling ambiance between Vi and Jay. And this book is really promising and I will definitely, absolutely recommend this book for everyone! You're not going to regret having this one to your shelves. And surely you won't be disappointed to this one! You're gonna love this from start to finish! Can't wait to get my hands on the next sequel, Desires of the Dead! :]

A well deserve salute for Kimberly Derting and The Body Finder! *applause*

OVERALL RATING

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