Review | Daemon Hall by Andrew Nance

Title: Daemon Hall
Author: Andrew Nance
Publisher: Square Fish
Date Released: July, 20, 2010
Pages: 259
Chapters: -No Chapters Indicated-
Original Language: English
Source: *Bought

Summary via Goodreads

Is winning a writing contest worth risking your life?

Nothing exciting ever happens in the town of Maplewood—that is, until famous thriller writer Ian Tremblin holds a short-story writing contest with a prize that seems to be the opportunity of a lifetime: five finalists will get to spend the evening with Tremblin himself in the haunted mansion Daemon Hall, and the winner of the best short story will see publication.

     Wade Reilly and the other finalists could never have imagined what they find lurking in the shadows of this demonic mansion. During a suspenseful night of tale-telling, strange incidents mix the realms of the real and the supernatural. What is Tremblin really up to, and can he be trusted? What about Daemon Hall—is it alive? And, more to the point, will any of the contestants make it out of this hall of horrors to tell their story?

     In the tradition of Stephen King, this chilling novel will have teen readers on edge in anticipation of what’s to come with the next extinguished candle.

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I got this book from where I was working. My friend suggest that I should try this... Of course, I didn't hesitate because I love a scary and thrilling horror novel. So instead of just borrowing it, I just went into the cashier and paid for it. Well... and so it began. I have read this one a couple of days ago, the memory is still fresh. Let;s start shall we?

The Plot. It was really great. The fact that this book is obviously a YA Thriller/Horror or something... The scare-vibe actually stands in its name.

The storyline is very unique in my own perspective. It is like a telling stories on a story. Confusing? Not really... You will get my point once you've read this one. The story is about a five oh-so-lucky aspiring writers, who were the finalist on a very famous horror writer named Ian Tremblin. Obviously, those five finalists with their own original story/novel [Wade, Kara, Chelsea, Chris and Demarius] are main characers. However, the narrative plot is came out from Wade Reilly. So... The person who wins gets their entry novel to be published. Just by staying on the night of the grounds of Daemon Hall. Then... of course the whole story began!

To be honest, I am very impressed on how the book is written. The stories of the five MC is very amazing and four additional story -- plus Wade Reilly's POV narration. Each story telling gives you a unique taste of horror, chills and fright. Not to mention the free creepy illustrations included on the book. Anyway, the flow of the story is quite balanced. The understanding level is good and the pacing goes in a neutral state. What I mean is there is no ups and downs. There are no parts that is dull and some parts where climactic which giving me.. I may say.. An exact chill ride. A big thumbs up for Andrew Nance! :D

The Characters. There are no similar character characteristics, right? Each characters has their own stories to tell. Aside from their story entries for the contest. Though I don't seem very attached to them, however, it's the way I feel from it. It's because this is a thriller book. I don't really know how it ends. Good or bad.. or probably very bad, right?

Flaw. There is? Well... there is. As I compliment the stories and the whole story itself. Honestly, each story told is great individually... But as the story is moved after the other or switched on Wade's POV is a difficult to swallow. Of course, you have to embrace the sole purpose of the story as well as the characters story entries.

Aside from that... The epilogue is quite off. Hate to say it but I kinda don't like it. The event's from the contest is resolved but it's not satisfying. There are too less information and clarity. I have a hard time accepting how the end.. ends!

Other Thoughts. As I mentioned about the illustrations included here. Those are actually my heart-stopper. The picture is creepy, honest-like. After a story was told, a picture ends on it. And when I flipped the page and I already know that freakish-illustration is next to the page... I can't help it. It sends the chill out of me. LOL! Which means... The book is great! It sends an impact to the reader. Awesome! :D

If you want some chill-ride.. then this is perfect for you. And may I suggest of reading this one. I'd prefer reading it at night and alone which gives it more a kick into your spine! I recommend this! A salute for Andrew Nance's Daemon Hall! :D

OVERALL RATING

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{Blog Tour} Review: Playing Hurt by Holly Schindler

Playing Hurt by Holly Schindler

Publisher: Flux

Date Published: March 8, 2011 [on Paperback]

Pages: 303

Original Language: English

Source: Holly Schindler via Playing Hurt Philippine Blog Tour

Summary

Star basketball player Chelsea "Nitro" Keyes had the promise of a full ride to college-and everyone's admiration in her hometown. But everything changed senior year, when she took a horrible fall during a game. Now a metal plate holds her together and she feels like a stranger in her own family.

As a graduation present, Chelsea's dad springs for a three-week summer "boot camp" program at a northern Minnesota lake resort. There, she's immediately drawn to her trainer, Clint, a nineteen-year-old ex-hockey player who's haunted by his own traumatic past. As they grow close, Chelsea is torn between her feelings for Clint and her loyalty to her devoted boyfriend back home. Will an unexpected romance just end up causing Chelsea and Clint more pain-or finally heal their heartbreak?

[via Goodreads]

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I am very pleased and honored to be a part—and to participate—of the Playing Hurt Philippine Blog Tour. Other than being a part of this event, I truly wanted to read this book as well. This is my second read in YA Contemporary genre. I am expecting great from this book and I am glad that it didn’t put me down. Let’s see what I think about this book.

The Plot. The story is written in awesomeness! The storyline drifts off into two different perspectives—Chelsea and Clint. I haven’t read anything like this, so it’s very new to me. I usually read one POV then the other characters involved are only written on 3^rd person. This one is different, two individuals telling their sets of experiences, alternating from each others story which is both linked to each other as well.

The plot is much written well. Exact and directly to the point, no adding some other stuff to drive me confuse—or crazy, some instances. It was easy to understand and I am able to grasp the expressions and statements delivered on the story.

I found very amusing when every time she recalls in her head, the name of her boyfriend, Gabe, when she’s with Clint. And also how she scolds herself. On the other hand, I am glad reading a guys perspective in this book. I mostly read them on 3^rd person. I am able to relate some of his feelings here, how he reacts and moves.

There is intimate romance here, and it surprises me. So better lay-off this book to our younger readers. But that’s the funniest parts of the book, when intimacy with fondling, deep kissing and you-know-what [being wholesome here. lol], cuts it off in something unwanted, burst me laughing. The thing is I like how they react once they were interrupted. I just actually say, “Oh hell! They’re this close. Why now?” It only means that I am voted for them to be together. And I really like the two main characters of the story.

The Characters. Chelsea Keyes and Clint Morgan. They’re just simple to be named for a character in a book. But this one stands it up. These are my two favorite in this book. Aside from being the protagonists of the whole story, I like the fact that the two has different sad past but has the same connection and probably the same horrible experience. I loved how they simply develop their devotion to each other. Which a nice way to be attached to them.

Tiny Flaw. At the almost last part of the story, there’s an unresolved situation. It felt something is still hanging up when I finished the book. You’ll know it once you’ve read the book. :]

Other Thoughts. The ending of the story is beautiful. Not a common finale you always read on some romance novel. Like that swirly things flowing in the air while they were kissing from the place where they first met or whatever. I gave sigh of relief and smile. Glad that at end gave me a sight of satisfaction. A nice way to end a story.

I am truly going to recommend this book for teens and older. No younger than that. I bet this is PG rated. LOL. But surely you’re going to love this book as much as I do! I am sure to go get myself a copy of this one! A great salute to Holly Schindler and her sophomore book, Playing Hurt! :D

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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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]

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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*

OVERALL RATING

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eBook Review | Fallen by Nhan Diep

Fallen by Nhan Diep
Publisher: Nhan Diep
Release Date: February 23, 2011
Pages: 290 [ebook] 
Chapters: 29 [ebook] 
Original Language: English
Source: From the Author*

Summary

Emma rescued him because it was the “right” thing to do. He wasn’t your typical babe in the woods. He wore rustic clothing. His hair was too long. His face was too handsome. There was that tattoo of a flaming cross down the side of his neck too.

Now, as she’s speeding toward a dock with every intention of slamming into it, she found herself no longer wondering who he was, but rather, what he was. She turned around and looked at his absent face smiling nervously back at her, bracing himself as blacked winged Angels chased their runaway boat.

Was he a monster? Or some sort of demon? Why would Angels be after his life? Two months ago, her world still made sense. Now, nothing will ever be the same again. She had unwittingly put herself in the middle of a reigniting celestial war, and little did she know the fate of the world would soon be contingent on them. And she’d never even driven a boat before. 18, was going to be a tough year.

[via Goodreads]

* * * * * * * * * *

An author offers me to review his book. And I accepted it and it is a very great honor for me to do it. I haven't heard any news from this book but not until now. So let's start! :]

The Plot. This really is an interesting story.  Of course, I didn't hesitate to get in vibes on liking this one because it is an angel-related book. This does not focus on only to one person but almost everyone who is important on the story, whom their part contributes to it.

Humor never gets boring to this one, even it only applies to an amount of few. And the action is the very coolest part. Haven't read any angels having a fight on the air, so this is the first time. I was definitely imagining every details of the fight, and I am pretty sure that was a blast!

The love part isn't in much holding. It was in a good way, of course. That means we have to wait for the next book for it to know how will it progress. Not just by the end of the book, they are already a couple or in-love. This book is not one of those books. And I really can't wait hows it turns out!

The Characters. Emma is the female protagonist in the story and easily fell in-love with her. Especially when she her mannerism turned up. She likes numbers unlike me. *laughs* Beside from her being like that, I really like her when she is with Cael. He is the male protagonist and have the most definitive role here. You are probably wondering if how did he get that name. It is very unique for me. He is very awesome and cool. And I really like the Emma and Cael team up.

Minor roles (I don't think if they are minor roles), such as Ellie, Emma's younger sister. Though I think of her more to be the older one because she is more open than to her sister. And she's the one bringing up the funny parts of the book. And I was wondering if she and Caim would be a couple. I really liked them as well. [You have to read this on what on earth I was talking about.]

You will meet a lot of angels here. I mean A LOT! You're going to love how cool their names are and see to it that you wish you had their names. lol! :]

There are lots of characters here and OH! They are all awesome! They are easily remembered and loved.

Tiny Flaw. I just picked up the parts when a scene immediately jumped to another one and sometimes there are parts I was confused on whom was talking who. And thankfully, it is easily eased up. So there is not much of a problem. :]

I do recommend this book though it is only available on ebook and in kindle edition. I was wondering if this would be published on paperback or hardcover because it is a really great read. And surely you won't be disappointed. :]

WAIT FOR MY GIVEAWAY FROM THIS BOOK! SO STAY TUNED! :]

*I received this free ebook copy from the author Nhan Diep for allowing me to review his book. Thank you so much! :]

OVERALL RATING

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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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Book Review | City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare
Publisher: McElderry
Date Published: February 19, 2008 [on Paperback] 
Pages: 485
Chapters: 23
Original Language: English

Source: Borrowed [Thanks Mia!]

Summary

When fifteen-year-old Clary Fray heads out to the Pandemonium Club in New York City, she hardly expects to witness a murder - much less a murder committed by three teenagers covered with strange tattoos and brandishing bizarre weapons. Then the body disappears into thin air. It's hard to call the police when the murderers are invisible to everyone else and when there is nothing - not even a smear of blood - to show that a boy has died. Or was he a boy?

This is Clary's first meeting with the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons. It's also her first encounter with Jace, a Shadowhunter who looks a little like an angel and acts a lot like a jerk. Within twenty-four hours Clary is pulled into Jace's world with a vengeance, when her mother disappears and Clary herself is attacked by a demon. But why would demons be interested in ordinary mundanes like Clary and her mother? And how did Clary suddenly get the Sight? The Shadowhunters would like to know....

Exotic and gritty, exhilarating and utterly gripping, Cassandra Clare's ferociously entertaining fantasy takes readers on a wild ride that they will never want to end.

[via Goodreads]

* * * * * * * * * *

This book has been on the stores for quite long now and I found out that this book really is famous indeed. I was planning to get a copy of this before I was into book blogging. Though now, at times, I read so much good thoughts/reviews about it, so I am more in into reading this book from that day on. And thankfully, my friend happens to have a copy and asked her to let me borrow it.

Just finished the book yesterday (March 11) and now planning to post a review today, Now let’s see what I have in mind in this book.

The Plot. The storyline was really great! I loved how everything paranormal are installed in this book. Vampires, Werewolves, Faeries and a lot more. This book really hits me in a very intriguing manner so I couldn’t stop reading it.

This book really contains a lot of humor… Literally means a lot. I loved how Clare put on a simple event into a different kind of picture, which is easy of fall in-love with. I liked it when something very solemn suddenly turning it into a very comical scene. So I had this feeling of not getting bored on my seat. The fact that this book is very thick. *laughs*

Half of the book only has a few minor actions and more on conversation. In which I am not expecting. Though the other half really gets into the action and of course, violence. And this is totally change my view on this book!

I am glad that this book didn’t focuses on POVs (Point of View) of a certain character. Everyone is involved though the highlight of the story is more about Clary’s unexpected life.

The Characters. Well, matter-of-factly, I really liked Clary/Clarissa as the female protagonist, with her will of strength and courage even though she is showing a sight of fright and terror she is able to fight and conquer it. A truly remarkable character indeed. She had this sense of humor too so she is easily to be loved.

Jace, is the male protagonist. He is seriously funny. I mean he is funny when serious. I hate to admit that he was really stubborn and rude, well it is obviously readable on his actions on this book.

Alec, a supporting role and best friend of Jace. He is ruder and annoying than Jace. I was stunned on I have found out about him. I wasn’t anticipating this kind of breakthrough, so in result I am completely shell-shocked. But I started to like him at the last part of the book. Isabelle, Alec’s youngest sister and the bearer of the secret of his brother. She is funny even though Clary called her “bitch”. She has this friendly-mean-girl attitude and vibe.  Simon, is Clary’s childhood best friend. He is a mundane (an ordinary human being), even he is just that, he really gave a big role for the book and for the part of Clary’s life.

The love part really giggles me in laughter. I was confused on whom I wanted for Clary. Is it either for Jace or Simon? *But if you continue reading this post… everything has changed it.

For this other characters who happens to be concerned in this book as well. Really gave their role in the story. In every details of the story, they are really extraordinary brilliant. I don’t think there was a minor role here, so in fact, all of them are major-major characters. *laughs*

*The next part is really downsizing the book and if you still willingly to read it you may proceed. Though it was just my expression to show you guys how I really felt. I want you to read this book yourself and I want to know your expression about it. It was hard but still needed me to show my utmost honest opinion. Here goes:

The Flaw. Unfortunately, I am unable to call it tiny flaw because it isn’t for me. I hate to admit at the end of the book where all truth is revealed. Instead of the usual shocked feeling, I paused and then an unwanted expression came out of my face … I grimaced. Yeah, you read it right, grimaced.

That part really turned me down. As you can read the great things I mentioned above this post, fallout in disbelief and disappointment. Everything I read before finding out the truth was amazing and loving. But then, everything was changed after it. My perspective about Jace and Clary changed. I felt the sudden urge not to finish the book even though I am a couple of pages to finish it. I continued reading it though my eagerness was changed. Still, I do like the story ends but it felt awkward for me.

Hopefully, this unwanted feeling amend for the next book and the next after it and also for the forthcoming of the next sequel, City of Fallen Angels. And I hope this truth about it is not true and I don’t want to end up disappointed again. However, I like this book no matter what but it was really changed it. ARGH! I hate to admit this feeling but I have to show an honest opinion.

Do I recommend this? Of Course! I am not stupid not to recommend this brilliant book. And if you want an awesome journey of a newly different world. This book is for you! I’m planning myself to get all the copy of this book someday! I really adore how Clare create this brilliant world and I wish this place is real and gladly to be live in it! A salute for City of Bones! :]

Overall Rating

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• 100 Books in a Year Reading Challenge 2011

Book Review | The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

*The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Publisher: Scholastic, Inc.
Date Published: July 6, 2010 [on Paperback]
Pages: 374

Chapters: 26
Original Language: English

Source:Borrowed [Thanks Mia!]

Summary

In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV.

Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen regards it as a death sentence when she steps forward to take her sister's place in the Games. But Katniss has been close to dead before--and survival, for her, is second nature. Without really meaning to, she becomes a contender. But if she is to win, she will have to start making choices that weigh survival against humanity and life against love.

[via Goodreads]

* * * * * * * * * *

I have checked this book at Goodreads and obviously most or I should probably say all of the people provided a review about this one really loved it. All of it gave it a 5 star. So I am not surprised because now I am one of them. lol!

If it weren't for my friend who happens to won this book and she let me borrows it, maybe today, I am totally clueless on how amazing this book is. Let's get started shall we?

The Plot. To be honest, I don't get it at first on why on earth it is called The Hunger Games. Only one thing to find out, right? I am not too surprised when I finally knew what it means. It became very common to me but in a different situation. What do I mean? Well, I have watched a movie something alike. Do you know the Japanese movie, Battle Royale? It is a very controversial novel published on 1999 called Batoru Rowaiaru written by Koushun Takami. I wanted you to see guys how slightly similar this book to the other. [see its movie trailer here] 

Let's get back to The Hunger Games. The storyline was different, of course. Though the words rings into me similarly. "Kill to survive". I loved it! Though I was expecting more violence and gore here. It has a minimal gore on my opinion though I like how this book is written.

It amazes me on how the book really drives me wide-eyed. It was simply downright brilliant! It applies only an amount of violence in action. Still, there is violence. The fact that I truly adore reading and watching those kind of things. It makes my blood rush in excitement.

There are not much of surprises here but I don't bother to regard it because this book is all about killing and surviving. It really helps you on how to survive in the wild. Its awesome!

The Characters. Katniss. I was a very uncommon name. Very original. I really liked her when she is completely blind on what really Peeta feels about her. I would gladly slap her head on how stupid she is. lol! And I am impressed on how her life in the forest was, when the Games started. Its unlike some characters in a movie or in another book, this one really suffers intensely bad injuries. I feel bad about her though she suppressed the pain and go on. I admire her courage and strength. Collins made her vulnerable but with strong will and spirit.

Peeta. Ohhh... He is interesting. I really liked him for Katniss instead of Gale. Obviously, he is the male MC here. I really thought Gale would be in the focus but it's not. Maybe he will take part on the next two books. I don't know and I wanted to find out. *laughs*

Effie, Haymitch and Cinna are awesome too! I love them taking part on the book. They really bring out some of the amazing things out here.

Tiny Flaw. I hate to admit but there is for me. I was not satisfied on the very ending. Literally, I was not. I paused for awhile and confused when I finished reading it. However, there is still an after-shock of amazement and brilliance on the book. It helped it go back to the top. 

I really highly recommend this book to the people who loves some intense violence action. I do suggest, to take a precaution to our very young readers out there. I am definitely going to read the next two book and hopefully get one of my copies! A big salute for Ms. Suzanne Collins for creating such an amazing book! :]

*The book will be in movies now and I, myself was very excited to see if how will it turns out. You can see in Wikipedia its Film Adaptation. And I found a blogger included a post related to the movie, you can check it out here.

OVERALL RATING

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Challenges:

• 100 Books in a Year Reading Challenge 2011 
• A-Z Reading Challenge